Construction UK Magazine - October 2024

2024

Highways UK 2024: Navigating the Future of Road Infrastructure Construction

Willmott Dixon to deliver new mental health unit in Bristol

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CRL AND TUNLEY ENVIRONMENTAL PARTNER TO DRIVE GREEN CONSTRUCTION SOLUTIONS

BUILDING WITH WEST FRASER ON MUDEFORD REDEVELOPMENT

Popular with sailors and surfers, Mudeford lies on a spit of land between Christchurch Harbour and the open sea, where residential properties rival Sandbanks in nearby Poole in terms of luxury and prestige. One of West Fraser’s customers, in a redevelopment project, is employing the company’s high performance panel products where a building is being transformed into a three-storey, five-bedroom dwelling with a rooftop sun deck.

The team carrying out the work for a private owner includes Steve Mayes who has gained a lot of experience of the West Fraser product range working for local developers, Glass Harbour Group

and Ashhaus Construction: building bespoke, high specification homes.

All West Fraser panel products produced in the UK are net carbon negative and manufactured in mills that have obtained the coveted environmental ISO 14001 accreditation. Responsibly sourced, the panels are FSC certified (C012533) and created from locally grown timber, cutting embodied carbon from transportation.

With over 65 years of experience, Concrete Repairs Limited (CRL) has built a strong reputation in the repair and refurbishment industry based on their outstanding quality of work and innovative engineering. As one of the leading specialist contractors in the UK, CRL offers comprehensive services that are by their nature sustainable to inspect, repair, rehabilitate, and strengthen structural concrete assets in various sectors, including Highways, Water, Marine, Nuclear & Power.

In order to expedite their sustainability and social value aims and goals, CRL recently entered into a partnership with Tunley Environmental. As they begin their new financial year, their focus on building a sustainable future for all and reinforcing their goals will be bolstered by the strong support of Tunley Environmental. Following the measurement principles BS EN ISO 14064-1 and the Greenhouse protocol for SERC reporting, CRL and Tunley will work together to accurately baseline existing carbon usage and produce a targeted carbon reduction plan for the business.

As proud supporters of the Institution of Civil Engineers, their work strongly incorporates the guidelines laid down by ICE’s Carbon Project Initiative. This will include working with Tunley Environmental to gain PAS2080 accreditation for the project management of carbon in infrastructure incorporating lifecycle assessments in line with ISO 14067 to demonstrate the carbon credentials of asset maintenance using repairs, coatings and corrosion control systems.

With Tunley Environmental in partnership, CRL looks forward to delivering significant change and furthering their sustainable and social value initiatives, backed up by quality data and meaningful assessments.

FIRM TRANSFORM OLD OUSEBURN ‘GRAFFITI WALL’ BUILDING INTO A STUNNING NEW DEVELOPMENT

A long-empty building in one of Newcastle’s trendiest suburbs has been transformed into a stunning commercial development following an ambitious revamp.

The building, in the Ouseburn, has been derelict for decades and has long been known locally as ‘The Graffiti Wall’.

Now leases are being signed – with one business ready to move into the vibrant neighbourhood - after a six-figure renovation was completed by MGM Construction.

The North East firm is one of the region’s leading property refurbishment specialists, and director Ryan Gardiner said the Mailing Street project was one of their most remarkable renovations to date.

Previously, MGM Construction helped to deliver several major projects across the North East, including a huge £1.6m refurbishment of Beamish Football Centre in County Durham, which has been a breeding ground for footballing stars like Newcastle United’s Lewis Miley.

DM HALL BRINGS SECURED 3.7 ACRE CUMBERNAULD SITE WITH FOUR INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS TO MARKET AT OFFERS OVER £2.1M

DM Hall, one of Scotland’s largest independent firms of chartered surveyors, is marketing a fully secured industrial yard with four buildings at 1 Deerdykes Place, Cumbernauld G68 9HE at offers over £2.1m.

The property lies to the north west of Deerdykes Place, overlooking Westfield Road, one of the area’s main link roads which in turn affords easy access to the adjacent trunk road and motorway

network, and is two miles south east of Cumbernauld town centre.

The surrounding area is a wellestablished industrial/commercial location with nearby occupiers including UPS, Pitreavie, Michael, Johnstone Transport and Craigmarloch Nurseries.

The property comprises purpose-built manufacturing and display facilities, contained within a regular shaped,

and generally level parcel of land. The site was well known as the DM Design facility.

There are four buildings on site, the first of which is an industrial unit/showroom facility of steel portal frame construction with external walls mostly finished in profiled metal sheeting. Internally, the front section provides an extensive showroom together with offices and staff kitchen and toilet facilities.

RECORD NUMBER OF POTHOLES PROMPTS CIVILS EXPERT WARNING

A new report from the RAC has revealed that pothole related damage is the leading concern for UK drivers, costing them an average of £460 per year in repairs. Six out of ten drivers cite it is their top issue as a regular road user.

However, while funding has been allocated to address our road issues, civil engineering expert, Dave Sanders, from leading specialist supplier Wrekin Products has warned that there is no quick fix solution.

Earlier this year it was reported that 2023 saw 630,000 potholes being reported across England, Scotland, and Wales between January and November, with estimates suggesting it is costing UK drivers as much as £500 million in repairs – a five year high.

Dave said: “Unless there is a real push for long term pothole repair solutions instead of quick fixes, we will not be able to solve the pothole crisis – regardless of the budget allocated.

“We are seeing a growing number of local authorities unhappy with the approach of patch repairing already subpar pothole repair works, but this is happening far too often.

“More guidance on how potholes are formed and the innovative solutions available to combat this issue will allow more local authorities to address the root causes effectively.

“Other underlying causes of potholes include road ironwork failures, which also needs to be addressed. Potholes form when weaknesses exist in the road surface, potentially due to surfacing joints, remedial works, or the use of poor-quality materials.

Installing a piece of ironwork in a road can create a potential weakness, as well as the cuts in the road needed to remove ironwork, therefore, replacement or repair of ironwork also poses an increased risk.

“Selecting alternative robust systems with the correct, appropriate materials can reduce the potential for surface weakness. Durable ironwork that is sympathetic to its bedding materials and surrounding environment is key to preventing potholes.”

ELEMENTALLONDON ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH CIAT

elementalLONDON (ExCeL London, November 1920 2025) is delighted to announce the formation of a strategic partnership with the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) to help support its membership in the development of construction projects.

Reflecting and enhancing the success of the elemental digital platform, elementalLONDON will have the ethos of Advancing the efficiency of buildings at its core. It will deliver an exhibition and content programme created around the wants and needs of its audience that combines deep insight with practical understanding of the challenges faced by building owners and operators, and the entire supply chain, across commercial and residential projects.

The partnership will facilitate the delivery of information to the CIAT membership and give elementalLONDON visitors the opportunity to connect with the Institute’s team and understand more about architectural technology as a discipline.

Adam Endacott, Head of Creative & Communications, Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, comments: “CIAT is excited to be working with elementalLONDON for this all-new show aimed at specifiers.

It is an ideal

opportunity for Architectural Technologists to broaden their knowledge development, explore products and processes and gain essential CPD.

“We look forward to this show becoming a staple part of the built environment exhibition calendar.”

Rebecca Pearce, elementalLONDON Event Director, adds: “We’re delighted to have agreed this partnership with CIAT.

“We look forward to being able to share our plans and vision with the Institute’s members in the coming months, and welcoming them to ExCeL London in 2025 and beyond.”

REYNAERS RETURNS TO SPONSOR FAÇADE DESIGN AND ENGINEERING AWARDS

Reynaers Aluminium UK has been confirmed as the headline sponsor for the Façade Design and Engineering Awards for the third year in a row.

Following directly after the Zak World of Facades London conference, which will host up to 1,000 façade specialists from across the world, the Façade, Design and Engineering Awards will take place on 6th November 2024 at Old Billingsgate, London.

These prestigious awards, organised by the Society of Façade Engineering (SFE) and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineering (CIBSE), recognise excellence in façade engineering.

Reynaers plays a significant role in this industry sector as a leading global manufacturer and supplier of innovative aluminium façade systems. The company’s portfolio includes structural glazed facades, unitised systems, and advanced façade solutions designed for high performance and sustainability-led projects.

John McComb, Technical Director at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “As a company that strives to support architects and construction professionals in achieving the most innovative and sustainable designs, we are delighted to once again take on the role of headline sponsor for such an important awards initiative in the sector. As well as design excellence, this year’s awards will again reward sustainability in façade, engineering, which Reynaers continues to work hard to support through constantly enhancing the capabilities of its curtain walling system and by seeking lower carbon aluminium solutions. These awards are ideal to showcase the progress and excellence that defines the facade industry and is demonstrated on high profile buildings around the world.”

BELFAST GRAND CENTRAL STATION CONSTRUCTION TEAM TO CYCLE WEST HIGHLAND WAY IN 48 HOURS FOR CYSTIC FIBROISIS TRUST

Team members from joint venture Farrans Sacyr, the main contractors delivering Belfast Grand Central Station, are setting out on a 48-hour cycle challenge along the West Highland Way in Scotland with all funds raised going to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

The group of amateur cyclists will depart from Glasgow on 21st September 2024 with the intention of making it to Fort William, 104 miles away, in just 48 hours.

Duane McCreadie, project director for Farrans Sacyr, will be joined by Richard McCullough, Dave Wardell, Matty Blayney, Yesten Smith, Chris Mattocks, Lowell McCreadie, Andrew McCullough, Andrew Hunter and Greig Mitchell.

The friends are travelling to Scotland in memory of Dave’s brother Rab Wardell, who tragically passed away only 2 days after winning the Scottish Mountain Bike Championship in 2022. They will #ridelikerab while raising much needed funds for a charity close to the hearts’ of the team, the Cystic

Fibrosis Trust. Duane’s son, Xander, was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis in 2021.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition which causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system. It affects more than 10,800 people in the UK. One in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.

Find out more and donate to Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

MIDLANDS HOMEBUILDER UNVEILS FIRST LOOK AT NEW HOMES IN HALESOWEN

Spitfire Homes, an award-winning homebuilder based in the Midlands, has revealed the first images of a collection of new homes in Halesowen.

Construction work is well underway on the creation of 61 design-led new homes situated on land previously occupied by a Sandvik Coromant office building.

Named Maybank, the collection includes a range of two- to four-bedroom homes, plus two one-bedroom maisonettes, with first occupations set for Spring 2025.

The new address will combine striking exteriors, modern layouts and sustainable features, including energy efficient air

source heat pumps, underfloor heating, and electric vehicle charging points. As well as retaining existing woodland, there are plans to plant a number of trees and enhance green areas with species of wildflower grass to encourage wildlife and preserve the environment.

Spitfire Homes has also announced the appointment of local estate agent, Lex Allan Grove, to help oversee the sales process using its wealth of experience and local knowledge.

SUMMER COMPLETION OF AFFORDABLE HOMES

A brand new housing development in Herefordshire has officially been completed.

Middleton Avenue in Ross on Wye –which started on site in March 2022 – offers a range of housing types and sizes including accessible bungalows.

The 44 homes – which have been constructed on a timber frame system – are made up of 17 for affordable rent and 27 shared ownership. The homes are being let, sold and managed by Platform Housing Group.

The development – which is based in Horsefield Road in the town – is in an established residential area.

During the lettings interview process, it became clear that some of the applicants had been bidding for properties for a number of years, trying to get out of overcrowded homes, caught in an unaffordability trap and even homeless.

One lady who was successful in obtaining a 2 bedroom house said : “Since I moved into my new house earlier this summer it has been life changing for me and my daughter.

“We are able to do so much more as I don’t have to rely on a car, and it is walking distance to everything! Me and my daughter now have our own space after sharing the same small bedroom for more than 3 years.

The house itself is perfect in every way possible.

“I can’t thank Platform enough for giving me and my daughter such a beautiful place to make our home.”

The development has been part funded by Homes England.

E G Carter & Co Limited undertook the construction work; the developer employed Gloucester based Quattro Design Architects.

BOUYGUES UK STARTS WORK TO TRANSFORM OLD DEBENHAMS STORE INTO STATE-OF-THE ART HEALTH AND WELLBEING HWB

Bouygues UK has begun works to transform an old retail store in Carmarthen into a state-of-theart health, wellbeing, educational and leisure hwb that will include a high-spec family entertainment centre.

As lead contractor on the project, Bouygues UK are now working closely with Carmarthenshire County Council, in partnership with Hywel Dda University Health Board and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, to repurpose the building that will deliver a wide range of facilities under one roof –it will be called Carmarthen Health and Wellbeing Hwb.

Once complete, Carmarthenshire residents will be able to access community health services at the Health and Wellbeing Hwb that are being provided by Hywel Dda University Health Board. Alongside health and wellbeing services, the remodelled building will partner with Actif Sport and Leisure to facilitate a new 24-hour gym, which will include top of the range equipment, and flexible fitness suites for group and individual workouts.

Carmarthenshire County Council will also be introducing a unique

leisure-time offering for the area, with a high-spec family entertainment centre that will include a range of activities that people young and old can enjoy together, including indoor adventure golf, toy town soft play, E-Go Karting and TAG Active. The entertainment centre will also house a café and party rooms.

Housed in the former Debenhams department store in St Catherine’s Walk, Carmarthen, it is expected that once open to the public it will increase footfall for the town centre and drive further economic resilience for local traders and retailers. When the department store closed in May 2021 the knock-on effect on trade in the town centre was significant.

It is hoped that the new allencompassing Hwb - the first of its kind in Carmarthenshire - will encourage more people from the region into the town centre to take advantage of the public and leisure services that will be available under one roof.

Bouygues UK has already been working closely with subcontractors from the area on its other prestigious project at Pentre Awel in Llanelli and will continue to do so at the Carmarthenshire Hwb – with a further commitment to upskill all those working in its supply chain on the importance of embedding sustainability into their work.

WILLMOTT DIXON TO DELIVER NEW MENTAL HEALTH UNIT IN BRISTOL

Willmott Dixon has been chosen by Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board to build a new £20 million mental health unit in Bristol for people across the northern half of the south west region with a learning disability or autism.

It will be able to support up to 10 patients at any time, with the building specifically intended for those whose needs cannot be met by existing hospital or community-based services. With completion set for 2025, the unit will help keep people much closer to home and reduce the need for patients to be admitted to facilities far away from their family and friends.

Ben Stunnel is an autism peer mentor whose lived experience, along with that of others with the condition, helped to influence the design of the new build. He said: “It has been very rewarding and confidence building to have our thoughts and ideas listened to and it will be very exciting to see the building going up and taking shape knowing that we’ve contributed so much. I really hope that in future many people and families will benefit from what this new building can offer.”

The new Bristol unit will be run by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust and complements another similar facility currently under construction in Devon.

People On The Move

STAR PLATFORMS PAYS TRIBUTE TO ANDY PEARSON’S REMARKABLE 30-YEAR ACCESS CAREER AS HE RETIRES FROM THE INDUSTRY

Star Platforms announces the retirement of Andy Pearson, a distinguished figure in the powered access industry. With a career spanning over 30 years, Andy’s contributions have been instrumental in shaping the sector, and his departure marks the end of an era.

Andy’s journey in the hire industry began at Chislett Tool Hire, before he moved on to roles at Stephens and Carter and Key Scaffold in 1993, where he specialised in the Aluminium Tower Division. This became a significant career milestone with Key Scaffold becoming A.M.P Access in 1995. Over the years, Andy progressed through various roles including Sales Manager, Sales Director, and eventually Managing Director. During his tenure as Managing Director, he played a crucial role in the successful sale of A.M.P Access to Nationwide Access which was later rebranded Nationwide Platforms by its owners the Lavendon Group Plc and has since been acquired by Loxam Group.

Following this, Andy continued to make an impact as South West Regional Director at Nationwide Access (Lavendon Group Plc) from January 2007 to 2010. He then took on the role of Managing Director at Prolift Access from January 2010 to 2019, where he led the growth of the company from 35 to 900 Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) before its sale to Speedy in November 2017.

In his most recent position, Andy served as South West Regional Director at Star Platforms from January 2021 until July 2024, where he was instrumental in establishing the South West depot in Bridgwater and significantly contributing to the company’s success.

HARRY PARKER HAS JOINED LANPRO’S LONDON OFFICE AS EIA TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Harry is a consultant with 17 years’ experience within Environmental Impact Assessments and related work. He joins Lanpro from Enviroguide (part of the DNV group) in Ireland where he was Technical Director and EIA division lead, specialising on residential and renewable developments.

Prior to that, he was an Associate Director at AECOM, working on residential and commercial projects across London and the south east.

At Lanpro, Harry’s role will involve supporting Lanpro’s existing clients with EIA and related work, delivering key projects and adding capacity and depth to the EIA service.

CLOWES DEVELOPMENTS BOLSTER THEIR TEAM WITH NEW RECRUIT

Clowes Developments have further strengthened their team through the appointment of Jenny McCrea, a graduate from Nottingham Trent University.

Jenny applied for the Graduate Surveyor position at Clowes in line with finishing her degree in Property Development and Planning where she obtained a 2:1. Jenny will be working with the Land and

Planning and Development team in a hybrid role giving her a unique insight into both departments.

Tom Morley, Surveyor in the Land and Planning team, commented on Jenny’s appointment,“We are delighted to welcome Jenny to the team. Jenny will be supporting two departments which are closely linked in the lifecycle of a typical Clowes project. Namely, she will be

assisting on the delivery of a brand-new site, Pleasley Hill in Mansfield, Nottingham along with progressing existing sites through planning and onwards.”

Jenny has aspirations to complete her Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) in Planning and Development whilst working at Clowes. With a whole host of opportunities ahead of her, this will surely be a realistic goal for the new graduate.

Clowes Developments are celebrating 60 years in business, they are one of the UK’s largest and strongest privatelyowned property investment and development organisations, dedicated to a simple aim: to build a lasting legacy of strong, sustainable places that will enable future generations to prosper. The Derbyshire-based property group presented their strongest numbers in its history with turnover of £253.2m and operating profit of £43.4m for the financial year 2022-23.

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TROJAN BRINGS ‘TRUE FEMALE FIT’ TO UNISEX SAFETY TRAINERS

PROTECTING PEOPLE AND THE PLANET

How the new PULSAR® Life collection has strengthened safety and environmental performance at Morgan Sindall Construction.

PULSAR® and Morgan Sindall share well-earned reputations for focusing on people, performance and positive change. Where personal safety is paramount to the construction industry and its workforce, PULSAR® has supplied high performance, hi-visibility protective clothing to the talented teams at Morgan Sindall Construction for almost a decade, keeping sitebased individuals protected in their place of work.

PULSAR® launched its signature Life collection in 2023, a range of environmentally responsible, hivisibility garments designed with Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified fabrics and materials. With durability, inclusivity and circularity at the forefront of its design, the Life collection is helping conscious adopters reduce the environmental impact of PPE whilst supporting wearer comfort and safety with its practical designs. Morgan Sindall Construction was eager to become the first construction company to put the new PULSAR® Life collection through its paces.

As part of Morgan Sindall Constructions responsible business plan, the company prides itself on the health and safety of its workforce and actively collaborates with its supply chain to improve environmental and social values throughout the sector.

As part of a company-wide workwear upgrade in December 2023, PULSAR® supplied 1,400 Morgan Sindall Construction wearers with Life Collection garments, including reversible puffer jackets, stetch combat trousers, insulated parkas and brand new breathable, class 4 waterproof shell jackets and overtrousers, each conforming to the EN ISO:20471 standard. The range incorporates

environmentally responsible recycled polyester, nominated recycled linings, trims and Bluesign approved treatments, reducing waste streams across the business, already diverting 96.7% of construction waste from landfill in the past 12 months.

Similarly, PULSAR® is Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified, with all the recycled content in its Life collection independently verified at each stage of the supply chain, from source to final design. PULSAR® Life Combat Trousers for example, incorporate a fluorine-free, durable water repellent finish fabric protector and a Cordura treatment on the knee and hem panels that supports extra durability, a practical design for wearers kneeling for long periods of time on hard, unforgiving surfaces. This circular design approach helps to promote a longer lifespan for the Life collection garments, minimising the environmental impact associated with repeat production and shipping.

With an experienced female product design team, PULSAR® controls fit development in-house and offers extensive wearer trials on site to ensure ladies garments are tested in the working environment, with a view of informing the development process and supporting a range of sizes and body shapes. As a result, each garment in the PULSAR® Life collection is available in an equal number of men’s and women’s fits, assuring all professionals at Morgan Sindall remain comfortable and safe at work, regardless of shape, size and gender.

The new TROJAN footwear range, available exclusively from Arco, has been designed in a modern style, reflecting the growing shift in consumer preferences from traditional safety boots and shoes to more stylish, casual trainers and hiker boots.

Along with specific men’s and women’s options, the new collection includes unisex trainers that meet the latest safety footwear standard (EN ISO 20345:2022), providing slip resistance and steel or composite toe protection and midsoles. The non-metallic styles incorporate advanced midsole materials to provide superior protection.

The range includes five new styles, all made with lightweight materials and offering enhanced comfort and performance features such as improved footbeds.

Trojan products are tested in Arco’s own Product Assurance laboratory, the first UK testing lab able to carry out UKASaccredited testing against impacts, compression, midsole perforation, slip resistance and electrical resistance of safety footwear certified to the revised standard.

SWISS AIR PAPR FOR A BREATH OF PURE ALPINE AIR

The construction industry is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of protecting workers’ lungs. In particular, mandatory precautions must be taken to protect against the health implications of quartz dust. With optrel swiss air, however, respiratory protection no longer has to mean discomfort!

Goodbye to quartz dust exposure

Quartz dust particles get into the lungs very easily. Once there, they lead to coughing, shortness of breath and bronchitis. In the long term, there is even a risk of pulmonary fibrosis and silicosis. One thing is for certain – your workers need to be protected! But conventional respirators are associated with respiratory resistance, fatigue and sweating. With swiss air PAPR, however, these issues are a thing of the past.

No (forced) breaks, no sweating and no need to shave

With swiss air, your construction workers are supplied with fresh, cleaned air thanks to the integrated blower system. This creates an overpressure in the half mask that supports breathing and counteracts fatigue. At the same time, the cooling fresh air reduces sweating and helps workers to keep focus. But that’s not all: Thanks to the overpressure system, the mask does not have to fit tightly, no fit tests are required, and beards don’t need to be shaved either. Your team does not have to take forced breaks because of the mask, as is required with conventional dust masks. This in turn means output and efficiency both increase, all thanks to the right choice of respiratory protection.

Ultra-lightweight and user-friendly cutting-edge technology

swiss air represents outstanding value for money. Not only that, with its extremely professional appearance, the respirator also boosts company image. The system is a one-off initial investment – after this, it is only the filters that need to be changed on a regular* basis. Over the long term, using filters reduces waste and saves money compared to conventional dust masks.

* Filter changes depend on the dust load. But that is solved very easily: The swiss air control panel shows both the filter contamination and battery capacity, so you can rely on it to do its job just as well as your team does theirs!

swiss air control panel

Compatible with all common helmets, ear defenders and goggles

Not only is swiss air easy to operate, but users hardly notice they’re wearing it, due to its light weight. The ergonomic harness allows your construction workers to move around freely. Using the Protection Cover, available as an optional extra, swiss air works in any weather, even in the rain –just like your hard-working team. Plus, the PAPR functions independently of other protective headgear, hearing protection or protective eyewear.

Welcome to the Swiss Alps, welcome to optrel swiss air.

swiss air is the revolutionary PAPR from optrel and is testament to everything the company represents: The Swiss manufacturer of respiratory protection and automatic welding helmets is committed to delivering unique benefits in its products. That’s why around one quarter of the optrel team is dedicated to continuously researching and developing innovations that make everyday work in the construction sector easier. With swiss air, your team lives and breathes innovation.

Breathe the purest air with swiss air! Say goodbye to quartz dust exposure with the swiss air PAPR:

· Eliminates 99.8% of particles, including quartz dust, from the air

· Ultra-simple to operate, can provide TH3 or TM3 protection

· Compatible with all common helmets, ear defenders and goggles

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

THE FUTURE OF FIRE SUPPRESSION: MAKE SURE YOU PLAN AHEAD

Changes to fire safety legislation are potentially just around the corner. Here, Mark Thewlis, Operations Director at ESG-focused fire suppression system provider, Alpine Fire, discusses what the construction industry needs to be aware of and how it can plan effectively to limit expenditure and negate operational challenges.

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has long been a cornerstone of fire suppression in high-risk sectors such as pharmaceuticals, automotive and industrial manufacturing. Storage facilities in particular have relied on these foams for tackling flammable liquid fires (Class B fires) and protecting assets where hazardous materials pose a significant risk of fire.

Get prepared for a change

But while the effectiveness of these foams is not in doubt, there is a major problem. AFFFs contain long-chain polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as ‘forever chemicals,’ which do not break down in the environment. As a result – and it doesn’t come as a surprise – a ban on AFFFs is expected in the near future. Likely to take their place are fluorine-free alternatives which are known as synthetic fluorine-free foams (SFFF).

So what are the implications for the construction industry – in particular the

people in charge of fire safety or facilities management – and what can be done?

Review existing systems

First and foremost, checking if your existing fire suppression system uses foam is vital. Special attention should be paid to two types of AFFFs – C6 and C8 – as C8 has already been removed from sale and an update on the use of C6 is expected in 2025.

Identifying potential issues now and being proactive will allow businesses to plan for any adaptations that may be required and analyse how the legislation changes could impact dayto-day operations and health and safety procedures.

A proactive approach could save companies expenditure, time, and operational challenges tomorrow.

Updates may be required

A move away from AFFFs to SFFFs may mean fire suppression system infrastructure updates are required. The two types of foam differ in many ways, not least that SFFFs require longer application times and larger quantities to be as effective. Consequently, businesses may find that their fire suppression system needs to be updated and potentially redesigned to incorporate larger pipes, different sprinkler heads and upgraded water storage capabilities.

This would obviously have a number of implications for those in charge of fire safety provision, with costs, resources, and even the potential closure of a facility to enable works to take place needing to be factored in. All key considerations when it comes to planning for the future and business continuity.

Steps to take

Going forwards, it’s paramount for the construction sector to keep up-todate with fire safety legislation and for companies to ensure that their fire suppression system provider is up to speed with industry updates and can offer timely, impartial advice.

Businesses should also not only consider the future-proofing of their organisation by getting ahead of legislative changes, but the ESG implications of switching to SFFFs too.

The fire suppression sector will be going fluorine-free soon – by acting now, you can ensure your business is prepared for whatever the future holds.

Mark Thewlis

ELEMENT PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION: LEADING THE WAY IN FIRE SAFETY AND INNOVATION

Element Passive Fire Protection is rapidly emerging as the fastest-growing provider in the industry. Element PFP has set a new standard for comprehensive passive fire protection services. With an unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, we offer a robust portfolio of services designed to meet the diverse needs of various sectors, from fire stopping surveys to full-scale fire stopping installations.

Element Passive Fire Protection has achieved remarkable growth in the fire safety industry. This success can be attributed to its holistic approach to fire safety, combining cutting-edge technology, stringent quality control, and a deep understanding of regulatory requirements. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and safety, Element PFP has built a reputation for excellence that resonates across industries, working with the biggest buildings across the UK.

PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE FIRE SAFETY SERVICES

Element PFP’s suite of services is extensive, ensuring that clients receive tailored solutions that address their specific fire protection needs. Our wide range of services include Fire Risk Assessment, Fire Stopping Survey, Fire Door Survey, Fire Stopping Installation, Fire Door Installation & Maintenance, Fire Safety Strategies and Post-Installation Inspections.

My sincerest thanks and appreciation to Element PFP and their delivery team who are undertaking remedial works within the city accommodation blocks. With special mentions regarding communication, politeness and professionalism.

- Nic Orme, Project Manager at University of Wolverhampton

Our services adhere to the latest fire safety standards and are third-party accredited, ensuring that every project is executed with precision and diligence. Element PFP’s team of certified professionals undergoes continuous training to stay abreast of evolving industry practices and technologies.

COMMITMENT TO FIRE SAFETY ACROSS THE UK

In a world where fire safety is paramount, Element Passive Fire Protection stands as

a trusted partner, delivering unparalleled protection and peace of mind. As the fastest-growing provider in the industry, Element PFP is not just meeting the standards of today but is actively shaping the future of fire safety.

Element PFP works closely with clients to understand their unique needs, offering bespoke solutions that provide maximum protection. This customercentric approach has fostered long-term relationships and a loyal client base that spans various sectors, including commercial, industrial, healthcare and more.

“My sincerest thanks and appreciation to Element PFP and their delivery team who are undertaking remedial works within the city accommodation blocks. With special mentions regarding communication, politeness and professionalism”

– Nic Orme, Project Manager at University of Wolverhampton

Passive Fire Protection with Element PFP

At Element PFP, we believe that every step we take towards improving fire safety is a step towards protecting lives and property. Our portfolio of projects is a reflection of our commitment to excellence and safety. As we continue to innovate and implement cutting-edge fire protection solutions, we are proud to contribute to a safer future for all buildings across the country.

We take care of every element of passive fire protection, ensuring all aspects of fire safety are taken care of. Get in touch to find out more about our passive fire protection services today and find out how we can improve fire safety for your building.

For more information visit: www.element-pfp.co.uk

CERTIFIED GLASS FOR CERTIFIED FRAMING SYSTEMS

Our fire and safety glass products are ideal for fire doors, screens, and glass partitioning systems. We offer in-house CNC work and oversized IGUs to meet your bespoke project needs.

We provide technical advice and support, and stock all major brands of fire-rated glass, as well as acoustic, laminated, toughened, and mirrored glass options. Available with short lead times and professional installations, we ensure your project is completed efficiently and to the highest standards.

THAT’S THE FIRE GLASS PROMISE TRUST

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

IAIN COX, CHAIR OF THE BUSINESS SPRINKLER ALLIANCE

In today’s built environment, where safety and sustainability dominate industry conversations, there remains a lack of knowledge and some surprising misconceptions amongst industry professionals about sprinkler systems which tragically prevent them from being installed. Despite all of the evidence about how effective sprinklers are in controlling and extinguishing fires across residential, commercial and industrial buildings, why is there a knowledge gap amongst professionals who are responsible for their implementation?

This knowledge gap was evident at the 2024 UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), where participants from various stakeholder groups, including developers, consultants, and financiers, admitted to discussing or making decisions about sprinklers without truly comprehending their benefits or how they operate.

Whilst we have been aware of this knowledge gap for some time, it is baffling that such critical fire safety measures are being debated without a fundamental understanding of their capabilities and effectiveness, especially when this information is readily available.

Sprinklers are one of those things that are taken for granted or dismissed.

People either understand them and see the true benefits of them, or quickly dismiss them as a mere cost without really exploring the opportunities they provide. From improving life safety to business protection, continuity and sustainability, the introduction of automatic sprinklers offers many positive benefits and they have a long and successful history.

How do they work?

Sprinklers are heat-activated fire protection devices that have been in use for 150 years. The key component is a glass bulb containing a temperaturesensitive liquid, which acts to hold a plug in place that prevents the water in the pipes from being released.

In a fire event, temperatures will rise at the ceiling causing the liquid in the glass bulb to heat up and expand. At a predetermined temperature the expansion of the liquid breaks the glass bulb. Without the temperature-sensitive glass bulb there is nothing holding the plug in place, allowing water to flow through the sprinkler head. As water exits the sprinkler, it strikes a deflector creating a distinctive umbrella shaped spray pattern. This design efficiently distributes water over the affected area, helping to control or extinguish the fire.

In terms of how they work, it’s as simple as that. Importantly, only the sprinklers

directly exposed to the fire’s heat will activate. This targeted approach effectively combats the fire and ensures water is delivered where it is needed.

They do not respond to smoke and there are no wires attached to it. It’s all down to heat. This is why someone having a cigarette in a building or someone burning their toast will not cause the sprinkler system to go off. Another prevalent misunderstanding is that all sprinklers activate simultaneously. Sadly, this is the stuff of movies and Hollywood. Only those near the fire operate in a standard sprinkler system.

The evidence shows that sprinkler systems have an operational reliability of 94% and demonstrate when called to work they have a very high reliability. Furthermore, it is evident that when they do operate, they extinguish or contain the fire on 99% of occasions across a wide range of building types.1

When considering sprinkler systems, it’s vital to apply careful thought, seek expert opinions, and recognise their dual role in protecting both property and lives. Sprinklers should be viewed as a long-term investment in safety, not merely a one-time expense.

For more information about the Business Sprinkler Alliance visit www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org

FROM BASEMENT TO ROOF, SECURE EVERY LEVEL WITH SPECWALL

BBA APPROVED & A1-FIRE RATED

Specwall is an advanced wall system, offering superior fire safety and sustainability. Whether for high-rise or multi-storey buildings, Specwall ensures every level is protected with cutting-edge performance.

BBA Approved: Approved by the British Board of Agrément (BBA)

A1 Fire Rated: Specwall panels are certified to the highest A1 fire rating, meaning they are non-combustible and do not contribute to the spread of fire, providing critical protection for your building.

3-Hour Fire Rating: Tested to withstand fire for up to 3 hours, Specwall provides essential time for evacuation and emergency response, safeguarding lives and property.

55% Labour Reduction & One-Sided Build: Specwall’s innovative design reduces labour by 55% and can be built from one side, making installation faster and more efficient, even in confined spaces.

100% Recyclable with a Lower EPD: Specwall is fully recyclable and boasts a lower Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), making it a sustainable choice that reduces the environmental impact of your project.

With less than 0.5% waste sent to landfill this will ensure your projects environmental impact will be at an all time low.

Choose Specwall for your next project, ensuring every level is protected with the highest standards of fire resistance, structural strength, and environmental responsibility

This superior alternative to blockwork, SFS, and drywall systems will give you the following benefits:

A1 & A2 FIRE RATED

Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

Construction Site Packs

Fire Protection Shops construction site packs are bundled solutions designed to ensure fire safety on construction sites. These packs include essential fire safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, wireless push button site alarms, robust dustproof cabinets and first aid stations. All tailored to meet the specific needs of construction site environments.

With these complete packs, construction sites are better equipped to handle fires promptly, whilst protecting staff, contractors and valuable equipment from extensive damage. Investing in these all-in-one fire protection solutions enhances safety compliance, minimises potential fire hazards, and ensures a safer working environment for everyone on site.

Low

price guarantee

Visit fireprotectionshop.co.uk or call 0330 058 0631 for more information

WE TEST…

Because evidence matters. Because it enables us to respond more quickly.

Because offering transparency helps educate our customers.

Because it’s our job to inform best practice.

Because it’s our job to offer guidance. Because firestopping is complex.

Because results are worth sharing.

Because people matter.

WE SHARE… BECAUSE IT’S YOUR JOB TO KNOW.

Download our White Paper, ‘Early Engagement in Firestopping’ at quelfire.co.uk/campaign

The sooner, the better.

COLLINSON CONSTRUCTION LTD REBRANDS TO COLLINSON

Caithness-based engineering firm Envision Engineering & Design Ltd is investing in new technology that will help increase business turnover and productivity while cutting carbon emissions.

The company has purchased a Leica Geosystems mobile 3D scanner after securing a £6,390 investment from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) towards the total cost of £21,300.

Founded in 2016, Envision has seen steady growth, and currently employs 6.5 full time equivalent mechanical engineers from its Thurso office. With clients throughout Scotland, the business offers design and engineering services. Using the latest equipment and software allows them to carry out site surveys, optioneering studies, concept/scheme/detailed design, 2D & 3D drawings, technical assessments, and complex engineering calculations, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA).

Its first 3D scanner, bought in 2018 with HIE support, allowed the business to grow and develop its niche element in the market. The new Leica scanner will enable Envision to offer a broader range of services to existing and new clients.

It will be used to create 3D digital twin models of clients’ sites providing them with walkthrough photo realistic views, the ability to take measurements and manage their assets remotely without the need for physical visits to site.

This will offer a significant reduction in their carbon footprint, reduce their internal costs and increase productivity by significantly reducing travel time to and from sites.

Alongside substantial carbon savings, use of the new equipment has helped the company achieve a six-figure increase in turnover and 30% boost in productivity within 12 months.

TENSILE LTD TO REFLECT

STRATEGIC FOCUS ON TENSILE MEMBRANE CONSTRUCTION

The new name underscores the companies commitment to specialised tensile membrane construction, solidifying its leadership in the market as the exclusive contractor for Best Hall for the U.K & Ireland.

Collinson Construction Ltd, a leader in the construction industry known for its expertise in tensile membrane structures, announced its rebranding as Collinson Tensile Ltd. This strategic name change reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to focusing exclusively on tensile membrane construction, moving away from general construction projects.

As the exclusive UK contractor/ representative for Best Hall, a global leader in tensile building/architecture, Collinson Tensile Ltd is poised to

strengthen its position in the market and drive growth across various sectors.

Collinson Tensile Ltd has a proven track record of delivering landmark projects, particularly in the sports industry.

Notable achievements include the construction of Crystal Palace Football Club’s state-of-the-art tensile training facility, a multi-million-pound project that features a full-sized indoor 3G training pitch at the club’s academy.

Additionally, the company has completed the new indoor training facilities for AFC Bournemouth and Bristol Bears Rugby Football Club, allowing these clubs to train year-round regardless of weather conditions.

Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms

SAPIENSTONE: DRESS YOUR KITCHEN

Where the art of design meets everyday functionality.

Kitchens are the heart of every home, where functionality meets aesthetics to create spaces for cooking, gathering and making memories. We introduce you to the exceptional kitchen surfaces from SapienStone, where innovation, design and quality converge to create unique and refined spaces. SapienStone is synonymous with excellence in the production of porcelain stoneware

surfaces, perfect for transforming kitchens into functional and elegant environments.

SapienStone surfaces between strength and versatility

SapienStone surfaces are crafted from porcelain stoneware, a material with extraordinary technical and aesthetic properties. Thanks to its resistance to scratches, stains and high temperatures, porcelain stoneware ensures durability and reliability while maintaining its beauty over time. This material is ideal for those seeking practical solutions without compromising on design.

SapienStone offers a wide range of colors, textures and finishes, enabling the creation of bespoke kitchens that reflect each client’s taste and style. These surfaces can be used not only for countertops but also for wall cladding and islands, offering endless creative possibilities for designers and architects.

ASSET FINANCE – YOUR NEXT OPTION FOR FUNDING?

Asset finance is, for many firms, a form of funding they have used for many years. Yet still, for others, it’s not something they know much about. In this article Close Brothers Asset Finance takes a closer look at the different products and understand why it could be the perfect option when considering your next purchase.

In short, asset finance is an alternative form of funding used by businesses to obtain the equipment they need to grow or access much-needed cash. Asset finance makes the otherwise unaffordable affordable because it gives businesses access to the equipment they need without incurring the cash flow disadvantage of an outright purchase.

Agreements can also be customised to the business’s needs, with flexibility on both the term and repayment schedule.

There are various products that come under the broad umbrella of asset finance with one of the key ones being Refinancing, which is a proven way to make your assets work for you and release cash back into the business.

How Refinance works

Refinancing uses the value of assets you already own to help your business. With Sale and HP Back – a type of refinancing –you sell your equipment to us, and we lend you the money you need to invest in your business.

There are various products that come under the broad umbrella of asset finance with one of the key ones being Refinancing, which is a proven way to make your assets work for you and release cash back into the business.

You pay us back in line with what the equipment earns for you. Once you’re done paying us back, you own the equipment again.

This works whether you own the equipment outright or are already financing it with someone else.

Who is Refinancing for?

Refinancing is for anyone looking to unlock the value of their existing assets to support their business. Whether you

own equipment outright or are financing it elsewhere, refinancing can provide a quick way to access funds for things like new equipment, improving cash flow, or other business needs. It’s a flexible option suitable for businesses of all sizes, including sole traders.

Benefits of Refinance

• Get more cash easily - Asset refinancing is a quick and simple way to get extra money for your business needs. You get to keep using the asset you put up as security.

• Pay over a longer time - We can take over your current financing deal with another company and extend the time you have to pay. The costs are fixed, so there won’t be any surprises while you’re repaying the loan.

• Choose what’s best for you - Use the cash injection for your business or buy other things you need. It’s more flexible than some other financing options.

• Decide quickly - Getting cash from your assets helps you make faster decisions when dealing with business contracts. Use the money for hiring people, buying new things, or expanding your workspace.

An example of how it can work for you: Let’s say you run a Construction business and one of the assets you own is an excavator. You need money to expand, so rather than taking out a traditional loan, you decide to utilise the value in your existing assets by refinancing the machine. You approach us and we agree to buy the excavator from you.

After giving you the cash, you then lease it back from us. You make monthly payments – think of it like rent - based on how much money the machine helps you make. When the lease is done, you own the machine again. It’s like getting a loan using your machine as collateral.

What is Refinance?

Refinancing is for anyone looking to unlock the value of their existing assets. Whether you own equipment or are financing it elsewhere, refinancing can provide a quick way to access funds for new equipment, improving cash flow or other business needs.

We understand the industries we work with and we offer a choice of finance options that best suit your needs.

Contact us today

closeassetfinance.co.uk/cuk

PLATFORMSUPERMARKET.COM AIMS TO REDEFINE MANAGING ACCESS EQUIPMENT

A new business designed to streamline the sourcing of powered access platforms has launched this week, backed by leading UK powered access firm, Horizon Platforms.

PlatformSupermarket.com will be a Dingli Authorised End User Dealer, and is set to transform how warehousing and logistics businesses procure and manage their access equipment.

MILWAUKEE® COMBINES POWER AND EFFICIENCY TO SAND THE TOUGHEST MATERIALS

MILWAUKEE® drives innovation for the professional trades with the introduction of the M12 FUEL™ 75 mm

Random Orbit Sander. Providing precise removal for spot sanding, more control and manoeuvrability.

This sander introduces an active dust collection feature, providing hose free and cord free dust containment, minimising job site cleanup with over 80% dust collection efficiency. Users have the option to utilise the included durable cotton dust bag or the universal hose adaptor.

Customers will gain access to hundreds of cutting-edge platforms, ranging from scissor lifts to cherry pickers suited for all types of application. Equipment is available brand new or approved used, which is fully refurbished, ex-rental fleet stock.

PlatformSupermarket.com will offer a holistic support service that spans from purchase to aftercare. Services will include outright purchases, hire purchase, contract hire, and part-exchange deals on machinery that enable users to work safely at height.

Supported by Horizon Platforms, a 15-year-old business and first in the industry to become employee-owned, PlatformSupermarket.com will have the same team of service engineers and IPAF driver/demonstrators. Bespoke aftercare packages include regular servicing, breakdown support, and comprehensive LOLER examinations.

The firm also offers IPAF training through their dedicated training centre, ensuring users are well-equipped to operate safely. As part of Horizon Platforms,

Featuring an orbital sanding motion with a 2.5 mm diameter, the new M12 FUEL™ 75 mm Random Orbit Sander delivers consistent removal rates and staingrade surface finishes, with a compact pad size allowing delicate sanding applications. The variable speed trigger, equipped with a lock-on button, offers 4-speed settings, delivering controlled removal in various materials.

MILWAUKEE®’s new sander is ergonomically designed, providing greater access and more control to the user. The lightweight design offers manoeuvrability, reducing user fatigue across various applications. Additionally, the engineered in-line design of the sander tool body ensures flush sanding and better control.

PlatformSupermarket.com holds all the same accreditations including triple ISO and Ecovadis Silver rating.

Rory Duggan, Director, PlatformSupermarket.com, comments:

We’re aiming to provide the easiest and most convenient way to own a platform. We’ll ensure the machines are perfectly matched to customer requirements, and that they are looked after for years to come. Our unique positioning with Horizon Platforms allows us to do this like no one else can.

“Owning a machine can be the most costeffective option for construction companies, as it means the machine is always available when they need it the most. The feedback we’ve had so far has been outstanding.”

The M12 FUEL™ 75 mm Random Orbit Sander joins the M12™ Cordless System, focused on delivering industry-leading durability and power in the tightest spaces.

Specifications

M12 FSDR75-202B

• Battery Type: Lithium-ion

• Battery System: M12™

• Diameter of Orbit: 2.5 mm

• Oscillation Diameter: 2.5 mm

• Oscillation Rate: 4,000 – 10,000 opm

• Sanding Pad Size: 75 mm

• 4 Speed Settings

• Weight with Battery Pack (EPTA): 1.14 kg (M12 B2)

Kit Includes: (1) M12 FUEL™ 75 mm

Random Orbit Sander, (2) M12 B2

Battery Packs, (1) C12 C Charger

Perfect Match: Sanding Sheets for ROS PG Mesh (4932499368)

To find out more about M12 FUEL™ 75 mm Random Orbit Sander, see video footage of it in action or find your nearest store, please visit milwaukeetool.co.uk

Tools, Plant & Equipment

6 TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE PERFECT PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSOR

Whether you’re looking to power up tools on a bustling construction site, ensure your equipment runs smoothly in tough conditions, or meet stringent environmental standards, here are six essential tips to guide you in selecting the perfect portable air compressor.

1. Know your flow and pressure needs

First things first: Understand your project and application demands. How much air flow do you need, and at what pressure? These are crucial to determining whether the portable air compressor can adequately power your tools and equipment.

Demands can fluctuate, making a portable air compressor that can easily adjust its pressure settings a gamechanger. Whether you’re handling multiple tools or just need flexibility, the right compressor should fit seamlessly into your workflow, no matter the demands. A unit that allows for easy adjustments to its pressure output is more versatile, and cost-effective in the long run.

2. Don’t compromise on air quality

Air quality is another critical factor, particularly where the purity of air

directly affects the quality of the final product. For instance, in abrasive blasting or pipeline cleaning, even minor impurities like moisture, dust particles or excessive heat in the compressed air can cause significant issues.

Opt for portable air compressors with high-quality air treatment accessories like filters and aftercoolers, helping remove contaminants and reduce air temperature. If your application is sensitive, investing in advanced air treatment capabilities is non-negotiable.

3. Consider the working environment

Your portable air compressor needs to be ready to handle various of tough conditions. Reliable filters are crucial in dusty settings, while temperature extremes require robust designs to prevent efficiency loss and increased wear and tear. Moisture control further prevents rust, corrosion and damage to sensitive components.

If you’re working in tight spots or difficult to reach areas, the right compressor should be easy to move and compact enough to fit where you need it.

4. Keep emissions and noise in check

In today’s regulatory environment, emissions and noise levels are crucial considerations. Adhering to emission standards and noise restrictions is

essential. If your worksite is subject to strict environmental regulations, consider electric or battery-driven portable air compressors, producing no localised emissions, quieter than dieselpowered units.

Noise pollution is another consideration, especially in residential areas or other noise-sensitive environments. Compressors with noise-reduction features can help you comply with local noise ordinances and create a safer, more comfortable work environment for operators and residents.

5. Consider transportation & mobility

One of the main advantages of portable air compressors is mobility, but how they are transported and how often they are moved can influence your choice. Will you be lifting it onto trucks regularly? Then you’ll want a model with a central balanced lifting beam. Will you be moving it often on the road? Then a robust, reliable towing bar is needed.

The portable air compressor’s dimensions and weight are also important, especially if you need to transport multiple units. Lighter, compact models reduce costs and are easier to manoeuvre. If towing, check local legal requirements—like in Europe, where compressors under 750 kg can be towed without a special license, making them ideal for frequent moves.

6. Ensure reliable service and support

Even the best portable air compressors require maintenance, so the availability and quality of the service network are crucial to ensuring that your mobile air compressor remains operational with minimal downtime. Opt for a brand offering extensive service coverage and quick response times.

If your business operates in multiple locations or remote areas, choose a compressor brand with a service network that has wide geographic coverage to guarantee effective support; no matter where your job site is located.

Show Preview: Highways UK

HIGHWAYS UK 2024: NAVIGATING THE FUTURE OF ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE

Highways UK 2024, set for 16-17 October at the NEC in Birmingham, is a crucial event for the UK’s road infrastructure sector. With over 10,000 attendees, 375 exhibitors, and 350 speakers, it serves as a key platform for collaboration, innovation, and industry progress.

The Urgent Need for Transformation

In a time of increased environmental awareness and technological progress, Highways UK 2024 highlights the sector’s need to evolve. With ambitious net-zero targets, transforming the highways sector into a smarter, greener, and more efficient entity is not just about compliance but future-proofing the UK’s road infrastructure.

This event brings together key players, including National Highways and the Department for Transport, to tackle challenges like decarbonisation, road safety, digitalisation, and talent acquisition—issues crucial for meeting both current demands and future goals.

A

Comprehensive Programme for Industry Advancement

Highways UK 2024 stands out with its multi-faceted approach, featuring ten distinct theatres addressing topics like digital construction, sustainable materials, and data management. The keynote stage will include senior leaders and ministers from the devolved administrations and major contractors, ensuring a robust discussion on the future of road investment.

Highways

UK 2024

is more than an event; it’s a call to action for all in the highways and transportation sectors.

The Start-up Zone is a cornerstone of the event, showcasing innovative companies and their technologies. From carbon monitoring software to smart wearables, this zone fosters networking and partnerships between start-ups and established industry players.

Tackling the Talent Challenge

The Recruitment Zone at Highways UK 2024 focuses on talent acquisition and skills development, addressing the infrastructure sector’s growing skills gap. This area will connect top employers with skilled professionals through onthe-spot interviews, networking, and career development sessions, crucial for overcoming workforce challenges.

Professional Development Hub

New this year, the Professional Development Hub, led by industry associations and consultancies, will offer

training in civil engineering, transport planning, leadership, data analysis, safety, and operational qualifications. It provides professionals, whether new or experienced, opportunities to enhance their expertise and keep pace with industry changes.

Celebrating Excellence: Highways UK Excellence Awards 2024

The Highways UK Excellence Awards return on 16 October at The Vox Conference Centre, celebrating achievements in the highways industry. Categories include Rising Star, Lifetime Achievement, Net-Zero, Social Value, Innovation, Collaborative Partnership, Network Enhancement, and Start-up of the Year. Although nominations have closed, sponsorship opportunities remain available.

Birmingham: A Strategic Venue

Birmingham’s selection as the host city is strategic, with the NEC offering accessibility for delegates across the UK and Europe. The city’s initiatives, like the Clean Air Zone, align with the event’s sustainability goals, and its Spaghetti Junction symbolizes the importance of well-planned infrastructure.

Addressing Key Sector Challenges

The road infrastructure sector faces challenges like achieving netzero targets and managing public investment pressures. Highways UK 2024 provides a platform to address these comprehensively, focusing on sustainability, digitalisation, and innovation. With public spending under scrutiny, the event will highlight the need for efficiency and resilience in the road network, prioritising rigorous standards and innovative solutions.

A Call to Action

Highways UK 2024 is more than an event; it’s a call to action for all in the highways and transportation sectors. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with leaders, explore technologies, and shape the future of UK infrastructure. Register today at www.terrapinn.com/ highwaysuk/conukmag and join this pivotal gathering.

Highways UK 2024 promises to unite the industry’s brightest minds, fostering collaboration to navigate the challenges ahead. Don’t miss this landmark event.

GREEN DOORS “WE STARTED IN A SKIP. TEN YEARS ON, WE’RE STILL GOING STRONG”

THE SCAFFOLDING ASSOCIATION BECOMES A BUILDING A SAFER FUTURE CORPORATE SUPPORTER

The Scaffolding Association – a membership organisation with requirements regarding demonstration of competence and commitment to safety and technical quality – has become a Corporate Supporter of Building a Safer Future.

With three membership levels open to companies operating within the scaffolding industry, the Scaffolding Association shares strategic goals with BSF of supporting the industry by encouraging an ongoing journey of improvement. Their specific focus on competence and ensuring organisations have the right skills and resources to carry out contracts safely, is complemented by BSF’s competence review that makes up part of the BSF Champion assessment.

The BSF Champion assessment gives companies detailed insight into their existing leadership and culture around building safety and equips them with actionable data and practical tools to help review and upgrade processes, driving meaningful and measurable

improvement in leadership and culture around building safety.

Building a Safer Future’s commitment to driving positive building safety culture change has been recognised by the Scaffolding Association with their new Corporate Supporter status, with members encouraged to consider becoming a Registered Signatory of the BSF Charter, and to embark upon the BSF Champion assessment.

The Scaffolding Association and BSF intend to explore opportunities for further alignment and collaboration, and promote the benefits of engaging with BSF at both Registered Signatory and Champion status.

Companies can apply to either become a Registered Signatory of the BSF Charter or participate in the BSF Champions programme by visiting the Building a Safer Future website on www.buildingasaferfuture.org.uk and completing the application form, or alternatively emailing alexander. caller@buildingasaferfuture.org.uk

Joseph Holman’s ‘side hustle’ has now grown into a £2m turnover business which employs over 20 staff and saves thousands of doors from being dumped into landfill.

“I pulled a set of French doors out of a skip, cleaned them up and resold them,” says Joseph Holman, founder of Green Doors, explaining how he started his business.

“I saw this as a great way to make money and make an impact. So I started trawling skips looking for items to resell. Then, one day, I spotted a mountain of goods outside a door and window shop and decided to rescue the lot. I sold them on and reinvested the profits into more stock.”

Holman’s company, which celebrates ten years in business on Thursday, has grown by following this winning formula of rescuing items, reselling them and reinvesting the profits.

The Luton-based company, which took the title of ‘Small Business of the Year’ as well as the ‘Net Hero’ award in this year’s Small Awards, upcycles doors and windows at its 25,000 sq ft warehouse and sells them online.

Holman has tapped into an eager marketplace, where customers are motivated by tight budgets, as new doors are very expensive. But also, concern for the environment, where reuse of items is now a badge of honour among the eco-friendly.

Holman began in business early. Aged just 12 and using his dad’s eBay account, he invested his birthday and pocket money into a bulk order of magnetic ‘stick and ball’ games, which he then sold on individually.

Diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia at the age of seven, Holman struggled at school. Meanwhile, his parents didn’t see selling on eBay as a career choice. It was while working as a plumber in 2014 that Holman was inspired to set up Green Doors.

Holman spent days scouring skips for more doors but soon found a “moutain destined for landfill” outside a door and window company and rescued the lot.

With this stock secured, Holman packed up his plumbing career and, on August 22, 2014, founded his company with a plan to disrupt a wasteful industry.

NEW HEIGHTS REACHED FOR HOLIDAY BARN CONVERSIONS

A significant milestone in the conversion of four barns in Craven Arms, Shropshire was cause for celebration last week as the highest point in the project was reached. To mark the occasion, the construction team, client, and architect gathered to celebrate with breakfast pastries and refreshments at the Upper Norton Barns site.

Shropshire based Morris Property, is transforming the barns into 15 highquality holiday units for The Holiday Property Bond (HPB). The development is an addition to existing cottages and apartments on a neighbouring site, which originally opened in 2008. Designed as a “rural retreat” for walkers and nature lovers, Upper Norton Barns will offer scenic holiday accommodation in the Shropshire Hills, alongside a

bespoke indoor pool and sauna/steam room.

Sustainability is a key focus of the conversion. Recycled stone from existing buildings is being used by the construction team alongside solar panels and a unique Biomass sewage system. HPB is undertaking a comprehensive landscaping scheme to ensure the development seamlessly complements its rural surroundings.

The traditional topping-out ceremony concluded with the symbolic signing of the staircase in the Dutch barn, which is being transformed into four of the 15

final holiday lets on site. Completion of the development is on schedule for early March 2025.

HPB offers a unique holiday product, allowing individuals to invest in holidays for life. Through their Holiday Points system, investors gain access to a portfolio of villas, cottages, and apartments across the UK and abroad, the Bond can be handed down through the generations.

For those interested in following the progress of this unique build, Morris Property has been sharing updates on its LinkedIn page and website.

Sustainability Project News

NOTTINGHAM’S £2 BILLION

MARSH REDEVELOPMENT ACCELERATES WITH ‘GREEN HEART’ COMPLETION

The City of Nottingham has seen the opening of a brand-new green space, representing a key milestone for the wider £2 billion Broad Marsh regeneration project – one of the largest development spaces of any core city in Europe.

The ‘Green Heart’, which was officially unveiled by Nottingham City Council leaders and local school children, has been described by officials as ‘a place for locals to enjoy nature’, with 38 trees, 34 of which are newly planted, alongside colourful planting, a superbloom providing nectar to wildlife all year round, as well as a new marsh pond and rain garden areas.

Pathways have been created from sandstone, which wind around the Green Heart and allow visitors to wander through the new public space, while the main path through the Green Heart serves as a direct route to the local train and bus stations, as well as the interconnecting city centre.

Multi-disciplinary firm Pick Everard was behind the scheme, operating through Perfect Circle under the SCAPE Consultancy framework to deliver advisory, contract management, project and cost management, health and safety, and civil engineering services.

The firm has worked closely with contractor Willmott Dixon and Nottingham City Council to bring the

project to life, following its successful delivery of the Broad Marsh Bus Station and Car Park, Nottingham Central Library, Collin Street play area, and interconnecting public realm work.

Oliver Hatton, director at Pick Everard, said: “The completion of the Broad Marsh Green Heart scheme represents a significant milestone in the quest to

redevelop a key part of Nottingham’s public infrastructure. Our team has collaborated closely with project partners to ensure the delivery of a vibrant community space, which reflects changing attitudes to the way we view our towns and cities, with plenty of accessible greenery that contributes positively to modern sustainability goals.

“Having been a key part of the team that has delivered several Broad Marsh initiatives, including the car park, adjacent library and Collin Street revamp, we’re proud to be continuing to lead the charge in transforming Nottingham’s future, and look forward to the Green Heart becoming an integral part of the city’s Southside area.”

The Green Heart project was funded through the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities fund, a £161 million package given to Nottingham and Derby in 2020 to keep cities moving and improve connections between and around cities.

Its transformation is among several redevelopment initiatives taking place in Nottingham city centre, with plans for a green infrastructure network connecting Nottingham Castle to the city’s £1.4 billion Island Quarter project, which is set to deliver new homes, grade-A office space, a five-star hotel, retail units, and student accommodation.

More progress on the ongoing regeneration of the wider Broad Marsh area is still to come, with a state-of-theart NHS Community Diagnostic Centre set to open in the area, as well as plans for new homes and offices.

For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit: www.pickeverard.co.uk

SOLUTIONS FOR SUSTAINABLE BUILDING

Gypsotech Externa Light Carrier Boards have received an Environmental Product Declaration.

At Fassa Bortolo, we constantly seek new ways to ensure our impact on the environment is kept to a minimum and that our products have longevity.

The Gypsotech Externa Light carrier board has obtained an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). This highperformance render board has undergone a life cycle assessment and is proven to comply to the low VOC emission criteria which is widely used across Europe.

Designed to be applied both on the inside and outside of the building

Used to build walls, wall linings and false ceilings

TO FIND OUT MORE about Fassa Bortolo and its range of render systems and building products. Visit www.fassabortolo.co.uk or call 01684 218 305

REIMAGINING URBAN SPACES: HOW ST JAMES QUARTER IS LEADING

EDINBURGH’S GREEN TRANSFORMATION

St James Quarter, a sprawling 1.7 million square feet lifestyle district in the heart of Edinburgh, represents one of the UK’s most significant city centre transformations. Officially opened by Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, the project is set to redefine urban retail and leisure experiences, marking a new era for the city’s landscape.

The primary aim of the tree planting initiative at St James Quarter was to enhance the urban environment, providing aesthetic, environmental, and social benefits.

This initiative aligns with Edinburgh City Council’s broader goal of planting 250,000 trees over the next decade in collaboration with the Edinburgh and Lothians Greenspace Trust and Woodland Trust.

Key Stakeholders:

BDP: Design Engineers – masterplanning, architecture.

City of Edinburgh Council: Project oversight and strategic alignment with environmental goals.

OPEN, Optimised Environments – Tree Pit Design

Laing O’Rourke: Construction management and implementation. MacColl and Stokes: Landscaping: Execution of the tree planting and landscaping

The tree planting at St James Quarter involved landscaping products and careful planning to integrate green spaces into a bustling urban centre.

A significant design challenge was working around existing British Telecom (BT) services to ensure that the tree pits and telecoms infrastructure coexisted without impeding each other.

The GreenBlue RootSpace soil cell system successfully addressed this challenge,

allowing for healthy tree growth while accommodating the necessary urban infrastructure.

Raised steps under the newly planted tree canopy provide a welcoming area for shoppers and workers to enjoy their lunch and fresh air, fostering a community atmosphere. The three trees contribute to the urban canopy, offering shade, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of St James Quarter.

GreenBlue Urban Products installed:

• RootSpace G2 – provides the necessary soil volume for tree root growth in urban environments.

• RootDirector 1000 – Guidance of roots for pavement protection

• Re-Root Ribbed Barrier – (600mm depth), additional protection for nearby utilities

• ArborGuy – Strapped anchor deadman guying system to ensure long-term security

• RootSoil 20 – Subsoil and Mycorrihiza – tried and tested soil for long termterm tree health.

• Arborvents – This product ensures adequate aeration for tree roots, which is crucial for tree health in compact urban soils.

• Castle Tree Grilles – Protects tree bases and integrates aesthetically with the surrounding pavement.

The tree planting consisted of a ‘two cells deep’ configuration, ensuring robust root support and growth. The linked tree pits facilitated a shared resource and stability among the trees, promoting healthy and resilient growth. Additionally, the grid system alignment ensured that the trees were precisely aligned with the seating wall, creating an aesthetically pleasing environment.

St James Quarter aims to set a precedent for future urban developments in Edinburgh and beyond.

Integrating green spaces into a bustling city centre not only meets environmental goals but also enriches urban living. This project exemplifies how urban redevelopment can harmonise commercial, social, and ecological priorities.

Green Blue Smart Space

Edinburgh, St. James

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Coatings, Paints & Sealants

CT1 LAUNCHES REVOLUTIONARY TANKING PRODUCT BW1 IN STOCKISTS

NATIONWIDE

CT1, the leader in sealants and adhesives, proudly introduces BW1 – The Ultimate Tanking Solution for bathrooms, wet rooms, and showers. Developed in Britain, BW1 offers groundbreaking technology to save time and reduce costs, revolutionising the installer industry and solidifying CT1’s role as a construction pioneer.

Providing Solutions for the Construction Industry

CT1, the “Snag List Eliminator,” is trusted nationwide for its unmatched performance in the construction industry.

CT1’s launch of BW1 underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. By continually developing products that directly address the evolving needs of the construction industry, CT1 remains at the forefront of technological advancement in adhesives and sealants.

Its unique formulation bonds in wet conditions, withstands extreme temperatures, and remains flexible, making it the top choice for roofing contractors, joiners, and installers. CT1’s reliability led to the creation of a new waterproofing and tanking solution for bathrooms and wet rooms.

Becoming a Stockist?

Since its launch in June, BW1 has seen overwhelming demand from installers and merchants. CT1 is now creating a network of select stockists nationwide. Interested in stocking BW1? Contact your local CT1 Area Sales Manager or email technical@ct1.com to set up a meeting and join the CT1 family.

Why BW1?

BW1, made in Britain, is a premium waterproofing solution based on TRIBRID® Technology and an ADVANCED Polymer formulation. With superior tanking, exceptional adhesion, and incredible flexibility, BW1 requires no priming and offers quick curing for bathrooms, showers, and wet rooms. Its anti-bacterial formula prevents mould and fungal growth, ensuring healthier environments. Engineered to ETAG 022 standards, BW1 provides an impenetrable barrier against water ingress, ideal for commercial and residential applications. Used with BT1, it delivers a durable, cost-effective solution for watertight installations, making it a top choice for professionals nationwide.

Commitment to Quality and Innovation

CT1’s launch of BW1 underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. By continually developing products that directly address the evolving needs of the construction industry, CT1 remains at the forefront of technological advancement in adhesives and sealants.

Conclusion

The launch of BW1 by CT1 introduces a reliable, cutting-edge waterproofing solution. Now available nationwide, BW1 is essential for professional installers seeking top performance.

Visit www.ct1.com or email info@ct1.com for more info.

Visit www.ct1.com or email info@ct1.com for more info.

Drainage & Plumbing News

Sustainable construction pioneer, Duraproducts has joined forces with The Greater Cambridge Partnership to lead the way in sustainable infrastructure development across East Anglia.

Since 2019, the company has been supplying its innovative shallow profile, pedestrian-cycle friendly linear kerb and drainage systems to a variety of projects. More recently, it has helped The Cambridge Partnership deliver environmentally friendly transport solutions crucial for the development of towns and cities of the future.

Currently, the organisations are collaborating on a project in Milton Road, Cambridge which represents a pioneering initiative in the region and features Duraproducts’ recycled drainage systems (Duradrain), standard kerb (Durakerb), and traditional kerbing within varied road and pavement details.

into new schemes in 2024. The Greater Cambridge Partnership, together with Duraproducts, has demonstrated its position at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure development, setting a standard for future projects in the local region and wider construction industry.

BEAUTIFUL WETROOMS GIVE A LUXURY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY IN KENT A FIVESTAR FINISH CAMBRIDGESHIRE

The success of these projects has gained attention from Cambridgeshire County Council, prompting interest in incorporating Duraproducts’ solutions

Polypipe Building Services has achieved the BES6001 international sustainability standard for its commercial drainage systems.

The standard is designed to enable manufactured products to be assessed and certified as being responsibly sourced and comes off the back of the launch of the company’s Terrain PVC pipe which is manufactured with up to 65 per cent recycled materials.

Assessment and certification are carried out by an independent third party and cover three different areas including supply chain management, which are evaluated via a written application and a site visit.

knows the origin of the materials they’re using to give construction professionals confidence that the products chosen support a more sustainable approach. Once certified, products are listed by the Building Research Establishment (BRE) which provides impartial research to the UK government and internationally.

The accreditation supports the commitment by their parent company, the Genuit Group, towards emission reduction targets through the Science Based Targets initiative.

A residential project in Longfield, Kent, led by Daniel Berry of ATD Design Solutions, began with a smaller specification of one en-suite bathroom. However, once the work began and the homeowner saw the quality of work and systems involved, they requested further work to be carried out, including additional bathrooms and the uncoupling membrane Schlüter-DITRA-25 in the downstairs living area.

The low height drainage system Schlüter-KERDI-LINE-G3 installed in each of the bathrooms ensured simple level access for an area which would be far trickier to achieve using a standard drain. This was particularly apparent in the forementioned ensuite which was specified with a twoway fall in the shower.

Responsible sourcing certification provides proof that the manufacturer

The unique feature was stylishly developed with flush transitions, coming together by first screeding the shower floor and then using SchlüterKERDI-SHOWER-LTS sloped shower board to create the required fall. U-shaped channel profile SchlüterDECO-SG made the attachment of a glass screen possible without damaging the waterproofing layer beneath the tiles. POLYPIPE

The scheme was validated in April and is the first to be made by a building products manufacturer within the UK as part of their ambition to be the low carbon supplier of choice to the industry.

Civils & Lintels o er an extensive range of solutions to help manage stormwater run-o and alleviate flooding.

We are a leading supplier for surface water retention, surface water attenuation or surface water infiltration solutions including:

 Polystorm

 Permavoid

 Geomembranes & Geotextiles

 Inspection chambers

 Outlet pipes

 Catchpits, silt traps and filter chambers

Your

Your

Hiding in plain sight

Putting Hygiene First

Protect your food against hidden contamination risks

Hiding in plain sight

Protect your food against hidden contamination risks

Our ACO HygieneFirst drainage systems’ hygienic design minimises harmful bacteria and pathogen contamination.

Prioritising hygiene from the floor up

Teknomek have partnered with ACO to provide the HygieneFirst drainage system as channel and gully kits. Tackling two of the food industry’s biggest concerns, these kits reduce the risk of food contamination and listeria while optimising cleaning costs.

Small items, bigger risks.

Small items, bigger risks.

Our BST J800 pens are designed to keep your food production safe.

Our BST J800 pens are designed to keep your food production safe.

Helping ensure food safety throughout the food production process:

Helping ensure food safety throughout the food production process:

Designed according to BS EN 1672, BS ISO 14159 and EHEDG, which includes internal 3mm radii for easy and effective cleaning and elininating crevices for bacteria residence.

• Metal detectable and x-ray visible

• Metal detectable and x-ray visible

• Silver ion anti-bacterial technology

• Silver ion anti-bacterial technology

• Shatter resistant

• Shatter resistant

• HACCP colour coded

• HACCP colour coded

• EU & FDA food regulation approved

• EU & FDA food regulation approved

• Made in Britain.

• Made in Britain.

Andy Simms

Drainage & Plumbing

However, research from MyBuilder.com showed that nearly half of UK homeowners don’t know where theirs is! It’s also advisable to turn your water off at the stopcock if going away for a lengthy period, especially over the winter months as this will prevent any leaks or burst pipes.

PROTECT YOUR PIPES THIS WINTER WITH EXPERT TIPS

Below-freezing temperatures have arrived- and with it comes an increased risk to our homes from the cold conditions.

From broken boilers to burst pipes, there’s an array of inconvenient and expensive issues it’s best to avoid.

MyBuilder.com, the reliable way for homeowners to hire tradespeople, has advised on how best to protect your home from the ravages of sub-zero temperatures this winter.

Andy Simms, a building expert from MyBuilder.com, said: “Cold weather can wreak havoc on our homes. As always, preparing for the weather in advance is always the best option - but there are some last-minute jobs you can do to protect your home.

“Frozen pipes are a particular pain and can cause plenty of issues with leaks long after the cold weather has left. If you follow our top tips your home will be well prepared for the forthcoming cold weather and prevent any issues occuring.”

Protect your outdoor taps

Frozen outdoor taps can add serious pressure to your internal pipes. It’s good practice to disconnect any hose pipes over winter as well as insulating any outdoor taps. Keeping your taps safe

in the winter is simple with a £5 Tap Jacket. This simple insulated protector cover can save you from a whole host of problems if the worst were to happen to an exposed outdoor tap.

Cold weather can wreak havoc on our homes.

As always, preparing for the weather in advance is always the best option - but there are some last-minute jobs you can do to protect your home. Frozen pipes are a particular pain and can cause plenty of issues with leaks long after the cold weather has left. If you follow our top tips your home will be well prepared for the forthcoming cold weather and prevent any issues occuring.

Know where your stop cock is and turn your water off

If you have an emergency from a broken outdoor tap, you’ll quickly need to know where your stopcock is located.

Regular boiler service

The last thing anyone needs when the temperature plunges is a broken boiler. An annual boiler service will ensure any potential issues are nipped in the bud. Should your boiler break during freezing weather, you’ll not only be facing a cold house, but it could lead to burst pipes should the water inside them freeze.

Keep your heating on low or use a timer

We recommend keeping your thermostat on around 12-15 degrees when away from your home. While it’s understandable that homeowners don’t want to spend money on heating an empty home, it’s important to maintain a reasonable temperature while you’re away. If you don’t have a thermostat, you can use the timer on your boiler for the heating to come on for a short time per day.

Install smart technology

Another option for a thermostat or timer is using smart technology to control the temperature of your home. You can use the remote thermostat to set the temperature you prefer, wherever you are and whenever you want.

Insulate

Insulating the colder parts of your home will help prevent freezing pipes from colder temperatures. You can insulate your pipes internally and externally, exterior walls, water tanks and your attic/loft space. Good insulation also protects your home from hot weather, so it’s worth the investment.

Manage airflow at home

To help keep your home at a consistent temperature, allow warm air to pass through the house via open internal doors. If your tanks or pipes are in cupboards, leave your cupboards open to allow warm air to circulate too. You should also ensure your home is protected from any cold air from outside. It’s worth adding draft excluders to any doors and windows if they’re letting the cold in.

BASE STRUCTURES CREATE STUNNING NEW FABRIC FACADES FOR PRINTWORKS IN MANCHESTER

Base Structures is proud to announce our collaboration with Printworks and John Turner Construction on the groundbreaking redevelopment of Manchester’s iconic entertainment venue. This project features three distinct fabric schemes adorning both the internal and external elevations of the site.

The internal facade artwork, created by Manchester-based artist Alex Sylt, serves as a central public art piece within the venue. Utilizing our large format fabric facade system and fabric printing expertise, we brought Sylt’s vision to life, adding a dynamic element to the venue’s interior.

Working at this prominent city centre complex site posed challenges inside and out with restrictive pedestrian management which had to be managed with careful planning and limited access via the narrow surrounding streets. To overcome this, Base Structures engineered a steel frame on Dantzic Street, to install five large printed screens by hand.

Also given the congested nature of the site and the intricacy of our works, careful coordination was essential, particularly while working alongside the digital ceiling installation.

The client required the internal artwork to be framed by a flashing surround with hidden fixings. We achieved this with innovative brackets and connections, incorporating fifteen speaker panels into a flush facade. These panels were designed to be removable and held with magnets, concealing all fixings. We were very happy to be able to develop an efficient system of work that resulted in a quality build, ready in time for the renovated Printworks grand opening.

For more information, email Base Structures at mail@basestructures.com and for information about Printworks Manchester, visit printworks-manchester.com.

CEO Gary NG

Technology & Software

NEXT-GEN GENERATIVE AI CHATBOTS IN CONSTRUCTION EQUIPPING SAFETY MANAGERS WITH DETAILED INSIGHTS

Imagine being a safety manager on a bustling construction site. Your day cannot be completed without countless challenges: identifying daily loopholes, and ensuring compliance records along with safety regulations. All this is attained by sifting through mountains of data to keep the work environment safe. Nevertheless, it’s a daunting task. That’s where next-gen generative AI chatbots come to the rescue. These advanced generative AI-powered tools are game-changers. They simply don’t just crunch numbers but they offer realtime insights, highlighting potential risks and recommending proactive measures. With these chatbots, you’re no longer bogged down by the minutiae. Instead, you’re empowered with actionable data at your fingertips, enabling you to enhance site safety and efficiency like never before.

It’s like having a tireless, superintelligent assistant dedicated solely to keeping your site safe. Today’s safety managers face increasing responsibilities amid larger, more complex projects, strict deadlines, and a labor crunch. Thus, implementing advanced safety protocols, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leveraging technology for real-time hazard detection is a momentous need for balancing these demands by fostering a safety culture and proactively safeguarding worker well-being.

AI Chatbots Enhancing Safety Insights in Construction

Leveraging advanced natural language processing and machine learning algorithms, AI chatbots in construction enhance safety by providing real-time,

data-driven insights. For instance, a recently developed Generative AI CoPiolet by viAct is successfully identifying potential hazards, streamlining compliance checks, and generating predictive analytics, enabling safety managers in complex construction sites to make informed decisions and improve overall site safety and efficiency.

a) Combining computer vision feeds with Gen-AI Chatbots

AI chatbots excel in real-time data analysis, transforming raw site data from computer visions into actionable safety insights.

Utilizing advanced computer vision algorithms, these chatbots continuously monitor site conditions, predict potential hazards, and recommend preventative actions. viAct’s Safety Generative-AI based Chatbot has utilized this proactive approach enabling safety managers to address non-compliance along with identifying its root cause in a meagre 3 minutes which otherwise took 3 days through manual process. This can drastically reduce incident ratesby 90%.

b) Streamlining Compliance and Reporting Processes

AI chatbots streamline compliance and reporting processes by automating the generation of comprehensive reports. They can instantly access and analyze vast amounts of data, ensuring all safety protocols are met and documentation is accurate and up-to-date. This reduces administrative burdens on safety managers, enhances transparency, and ensures adherence to industry standards.

Fostering a Culture of Safety with Generative AI Technology

Generative AI technology is revolutionizing the way safety is managed in construction, fostering a robust culture of safety.This continuous flow of actionable information enhances awareness and accountability among workers, promoting a safety-first mindset. Furthermore, Gen-AI helps in casting training modules and simulations allowing for ongoing education and skill development, reinforcing safety protocols and best practices.As aptly said by Gary Ng (CEO, viAct) “These chatbots are the Next Frontier in Safety Management for the Construction industry ingraining a long-term commitment to safety within the organizational culture”.

NEW VIDEO FROM DOORBIRD FOR AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE D410!

Designed to transform any door into a smart, secure access point, the D410 Smart Door Controller offers unparalleled convenience, flexibility and control for both residential and commercial buildings.

The D410 offers a comprehensive range of features to upgrade both new and existing buildings. With its seamless integration, plug-and-play installation and versatile connectivity options including LTE/4G or LAN/PoE, users can now effortlessly upgrade their doors to digital, enabling smart access from anywhere. With the option to either keep existing keys, which remain fully functional as an opening option, or have remote digital access that is as secure as it is convenient. Manage access effortlessly with the A8007 Bluetooth Keyfob Remote or the DoorBird app for doors/gates, garages and lifts.

See all the benefits at a glance in the video:

THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF PROACTIVITY IN MANAGING RISKS

When it comes to HSEQ, it’s always better to be proactive. Root cause analysis (RCA) and incident investigation have become crucial tools for deciphering disruptions and investigating incidents, but traditionally audits and investigations have been approached as two separate activities.

The COMET product and services suite offers a unique methodology that integrates both processes together into seamless, simplified software tools that provide far greater, sustained results to manage risk and keep businesses safe.

One of the latest additions to the COMET suite is COMET Assured - an audit and inspection application that not only delivers an organisation’s assurance regime but also integrates RCA for non-conformances and compliance gaps, allowing problems to be identified and sustainable improvements to be implemented before those gaps result in harm. The key aim of the software is to drive a behaviour of learning before action.

The COMET family of audit and investigation tools now incorporates both analysis of proactive findings (the audit) and reactive data (from incident investigation). The advantages of Assured include:

• It uses the same technical language, so those familiar with COMET terms and root causes can identify similarities.

• You can analyse the root causes identified through proactive audits and compare them to the root causes identified during investigations.

• The application integrates into existing reporting tools.

• You are adding value by utilising it – as incidents and costs should drop.

• By demonstrating a proactive approach to learning from practice, employees also gain confidence that if items are raised the company will learn and take action.

COMET Assured allows the whole organisation’s corporate risk to be looked at in one tool. The power in this and the company talking the same language is huge.

INVESTMENT IN COLLABORATION IS KEY FOR PROPTECH Technology &

Gareth Parker

Despite a continuous growth in awareness, PropTech still has a glaring problem: its lack of investment in collaboration and a clear lack of community-driven initiatives and projects. This naturally means that PropTech is falling behind all other tech industries, which doesn’t need to be the case.

Chief technology officer at modern real estate consultancy Naismiths, Gareth Parker, discusses how while these initiatives might not instantly revolutionise UK PropTech into a drone-driven paradise, encouraging collaboration of technology specialists is a necessary endeavour and how ideation outside of siloed innovation grants could be a game changer for the industry.

The new Labour government has set ambitious targets for the UK, whether that be the colossal mandatory housing targets, or the very infrastructure required to facilitate such works. Those within the industry recognise that we simply won’t achieve what is needed by doing things the same way we have always done, and innovation is required to introduce improved ways of working.

This is where the incentivisation of technology experts across different PropTech and adjacent outfits can play a big part. By coming together to support collaboration and training we can

help those in the sector become more accustomed to the use of new intricate technologies, and do so in a safe and legal manner.

The construction industry’s reluctance to digitise is no secret and this reluctance has now been highlighted by the amount of work required and the need to ‘Get Britain Building’. The work itself is monumental, but when you consider the timeframes given to make it happen, the task becomes a whole lot harder - it is these very situations where the utilisation of PropTech and collaboration can’t be ignored.

The industry must also respect the fact that it won’t be one area of the built environment which solves the current crisis we face, it will have to be a collaborative approach with significant investment into PropTech and other technologies which essentially make tasks more straightforward, efficient and save money in the long run.

One of the main questions here is how do we get people to become more open to the utilisation of said technologies? Well, the key word here is leadership. Having an engaged and enthusiastic leadership group on community projects could kick start innovations which businesses of all sizes can champion – however, these communities need investment in order to contribute to the wider industry.

The reason I keep referring to communities is because the UK’s current dilemma won’t

be solved by simply building houses and implementing infrastructure wherever there is space. We need to create areas which offer more than just a roof over people’s heads and that truly enrich the lives of those that live, work and play there. A collaborative approach to PropTech and various other technologies will give us the tools to make better informed decisions which will allow us to turn these spaces from a vision into a reality.

Finally, no one is saying that this will be straightforward. We may never reach our ‘ceiling’ of potential when it comes to the utilisation of technology in property and construction, however the ‘floor’ is still pretty high, and will unlock a brighter future.

ACTIS ENCOURAGES POST A LEVEL AND GCSE STUDENTS TO CONSIDER CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION

Students digesting their A level and GCSE results this summer are being encouraged to consider pursuing a career in construction by insulation specialist Actis.

The Skills England Bill announced last month is aimed at addressing a severe labour shortage in the construction industry and, along with the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, will pave the way towards creating the homes the government plans to deliver over the coming five years..

The desire to work in construction is there, at least in younger childhood, according to a recent survey of 100,000 young people by the Careers and Enterprise Company (CEC), which found

Northern regional specification manager Amaret Chahal, who has co-written some of Actis’ CPD training material, recently spoke to students at Barnsley College about the joy of construction.

Mark Cooper, UK and Ireland sales director for insulation specialist Actis, hopes more young people will pursue a career in construction after their A level and GCSE results

that it is one of the preferred career paths for students by the time they reach 11 years old.

And the CITB has seen almost one million visits to its Go Construct website so far this year, with a third of users under 18 and 33% identifying as female, all of which shows enthusiasm which needs to be matched with opportunity.

Actis is one of the many organisations within the industry encouraging more people to embrace a career in the sector through its school and college outreach initiatives.

Women in Construction ambassador and Actis northern regional sales director Jemma Harris has been involved in a CITB careers event and addressed students at a school in Yorkshire, with the aim of inspiring young women to follow a career in a male-dominated profession.

Northern regional specification manager Amaret Chahal, who has co-written some of Actis’ CPD training material, recently spoke to students at Barnsley College about the joy of construction.

And South-West area sales manager Tom Hendzel has helped out with lectures to construction trainees at Cornwall’s Truro and Penwith College.

The government’s pincer movement - of speeding up new homes delivery through its Planning and Infrastructure Bill and training more people to have the skills to enable this to happen - will also need to involve an increase in Modern Methods of Construction, explained Mark.

CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON MAJOR NEW COLLEGE IN SKEGNESS

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter, has started work building a new £12 million eagerly anticipated college campus in Skegness.

Once complete in 2025, Skegness Learning Campus will offer a diverse range of vocational education courses from the Wainfleet Road site that are tailored to meet the needs of Skegness and its surrounding communities.

The campus is supported by a £14 million government-funded Connected Coast Town Deal and is poised to make a significant impact by providing accessible education opportunities in critical areas such as construction, engineering, hospitality, tourism, and digital skills training.

This latest contract win for Hobson & Porter follows the successful completion of a £5.5m technical, engineering and construction facility at York College, which was delivered on time and within budget.

The Skegness TEC campus will be located at the heart of the Skegness Gateway initiative, which includes 1,000 new homes, approximately 41,000 sq m of commercial premises, tourist accommodation, a crematorium, a primary school, a local retail centre with shops, pubs, and eateries, as well as 4,000 sq m of storage facilities.

Training & Education News

class flexi-job apprenticeship agency, providing high-quality apprenticeships across the built environment sector to enable young people across the North of England to become employment ready.

SECTORS

Northern flexi job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures has confirmed it will expand its service into the agricultural and environmental sectors, in alliance with Riverlution.

With the growing demand for skilled professionals in the agricultural and environmental sectors, the expansion

Julie Deeley, EN:Able Futures director of operations and Geoff Guy, managing director of Riverlution

marks a key step in broadening the horizons of apprenticeship opportunities, helping to address the skills gap and foster sustainable development.

Part of Efficiency North Holdings, over the past decade EN:Able Futures has built a reputation as the best-in-

Under the new partnership, environmental sector expert Riverlution, a not-for-profit training provider that is part of The River Stewardship Company, will manage the apprenticeship services. EN:Able Futures will continue to deliver the flexi-job apprenticeships under its Department for Education license, ensuring that the quality and integrity of the apprenticeship journey are maintained.

Founded on collaboration, this partnership will create new pathways for individuals to gain valuable skills and qualifications, while contributing to the sustainability and growth of the agricultural and environmental sectors.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of both EN:Able Futures and Riverlution, the initiative will provide a seamless experience that benefits both apprentices and employers, hereafter demonstrating EN:Able Futures’ commitment to adapting and responding to the evolving needs of the workforce.

Training & Education

UPSKILLING YOUR TALENT IN THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR TO ADOPT NEW TECHNOLOGIES

The construction sector is set for growth by as much as 12% in 2024, according to Glenigan’s data. With this forecast, it’s important for companies within the industry to embrace new methods of streamlining processes to make them more efficient, and technology is a huge factor in this area.

However, an issue that arises is knowledge around this technology and how to maximise its usage. This creates challenges in recruitment, so many businesses could benefit from upskilling current employees to improve talent retention.

Data from Axonify survey outlines how difference-making upskilling is, with 50% of respondents would move to a new job if offered opportunities to expand their knowledge. Paul Taylor, Machined Seals Product Manager at FPE Seals, a leading supplier of hydraulic pistons for various sectors, including the construction sector, has offered expert insight into why upskilling is so important for adopting new technologies.

Drone piloting

Projects on construction sites can involve structures that are unsafe to investigate and analyse. This can be due to the height of the work or the foundations becoming degraded over time. Drones are an emerging technology that can be used to obtain high-quality images of the project for detection before potentially putting members of your workforce in danger.

This is a great opportunity for upskilling, as while operating some drones doesn’t require licencing as an operator,

businesses can offer the option for employees to be trained and complete a Drone and Model Aircraft Registration and Education Service (DAMARES) or an A2 Certificate of Competency.

Connection with the Internet of Things

The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionising the construction sector by connecting machinery, tools, and equipment through the internet, enabling seamless communication and data exchange. To leverage IoT, construction companies must ensure their workforce is proficient in using IoT-enabled devices and platforms.

Training programmes should focus on educating staff about the benefits of IoT, such as predictive maintenance, enhanced safety, and improved project management. Workers need to be adept at using IoT sensors and devices to monitor real-time data on construction sites. This data can predict equipment failures, thus reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

By investing in IoT training, companies can improve operational efficiency and project outcomes. For instance, understanding IoT can help site managers make data-

driven decisions, ultimately leading to more timely and cost-effective project completions.

Robotics, AI, and automation

Automating mundane and dangerous construction processes with robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) can save workforces significant amounts of time, allowing them to focus on higher-impact jobs within their roles. These technologies can significantly reduce labour-intensive tasks, enhance precision, and improve overall project efficiency. However, their successful implementation hinges on a well-trained workforce.

Robotics, such as bricklaying robots and autonomous machinery, require operators who are not only familiar with traditional construction methods but also adept at programming and operating these advanced systems. Training sessions should cover the basics of robotic operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

AI and automation, on the other hand, are used to optimise various aspects of construction projects, from planning and design to resource allocation and on-site execution. AI-driven software can analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and predict outcomes, helping project managers make informed decisions. Automation can streamline repetitive tasks, reducing human error and increasing productivity.

To upskill staff in AI and automation, construction firms should offer courses on data analytics, machine learning, and software utilisation. By equipping workers with these skills, companies can enhance their ability to deploy AI solutions effectively, leading to smarter project management and execution.

Building information modelling (BIM)

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a game-changer in the construction industry, enabling detailed digital representations of buildings and infrastructure projects. BIM facilitates better collaboration, improved design accuracy, and efficient project management. To fully benefit from BIM, construction companies must ensure their workforce is proficient in this technology.

By adopting BIM, construction firms can reduce errors, minimise rework, and optimise resource utilisation. Moreover, BIM enables better project visualisation, aiding client communication and satisfaction. Investing in BIM training not only enhances project outcomes but also positions companies as leaders in innovation.

PIONEERING SKILLS GAP SCHEME HERALDS FIRST SUCCESS STORY

The inaugural Built By You scheme, developed by national housebuilder Lovell to combat the sector skills crisis, has seen its first successful candidate progress from unemployed to qualified in a full-time construction role.

Following four weeks of training, both in a classroom setting and through practical on-site work experience, Eugene Kershaw has achieved a level one qualification and successfully interviewed for a full-time role at Lovell. He will be working as an apprentice bricklayer on the Glebe Street site in Telford.

Prior to taking part in the scheme, Eugene had seven years of experience

across roofing and window fitting but was going through a period of unemployment due to not having the qualifications to support his experience.

After the success of the first cohort, Lovell will be working with partners to once more invite applicants to the course, starting in September, with an ambition to pave the way for future careers in the built environment.

Built By You was launched by Lovell in early 2024 with the first training provision supported by Telford & Wrekin Council and Nuplace (a wholly owned council company) and hosted at Telford College.

SELECT INTRODUCES FREE ONLINE JOBS BOARD TO HELP EMPLOYERS FIND QUALIFIED AND SKILLED PROFESSIONALS TO CONTINUE THE ONGOING ELECTRIFICATION OF SOCIETY

At a time when demand for qualified electrical professionals has never been higher, Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT, has launched a much-anticipated new online employment resource to help companies source key personnel.

The body is introducing an easy-to-use free jobs board to allow its 1,240 member firms to advertise vacancies directly on the front page of the SELECT website. Adverts include the full job description and details of how to contact the company to find out more.

The new tool has already been widely welcomed by employers in an industry which has been facing significant skills shortages, fuelled by the fact that electricity and electrotechnology underpin every aspect of modern Scottish society.

The industry in the UK employs more than 208,000 people and, according to the Latest Market Intelligence published by the Electrotechnical Skills Partnership, sector growth will require an additional 33,000 workers by 2027.

During its first few weeks of operation, member firms across Scotland have submitted a number of vacancies for staff including electricians, fixed wiring testing and inspecting engineer, E&M electrical craftsperson and trainee quantity surveyor.

To ensure the widest reach, the board has been made public, with SELECT only hosting vacancies for members and all applications made directly to the relevant firm.

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