Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 by Lapthorn Media

May 2022

CONSTRUCTIONMAGUK.CO.UK

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Contents May 2022

Phoenix Brickwork lays ONE MILLIONTH brick at 1,400 new student flats in Lincoln

Mott MacDonald response to UK Government’s Energy Security Strategy

Sisk and JCB driving change with Ireland’s first electric telehandler

UK first technology could be the key to sustainable homes

Green light for Sunderland Civic Centre redevelopment

Show Preview: Digital Construction Week is back on 18-19 May

Buro Happold designs standout steel structure to house the future of neutron science

Turkey’s 1915Canakkale Bridge opens ahead of schedule

Show Preview: FIREX International 2022 returns to ExCeL London!

BOMAG GB appoints new MD to lead it through next phase of growth

Volvo Construction Equipment comes on-board as Official Construction Equipment Supplier

Making construction more sustainable - the role of trade retailers

Front cover image by Leo Leo

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Accounts Richard Lapthorn accounts@constructionmaguk.co.uk Sales Executive Hannah Marshall hannah@constructionmaguk.co.uk Sales Manager Adam Jeakins adam@constructionmaguk.co.uk Circulation Manager Leo Phillips subs@constructionmaguk.co.uk Website: www.constructionmaguk.co.uk Twitter: @constructionukm

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Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 03

Company News

PHOENIX BRICKWORK LAYS ONE MILLIONTH BRICK AT 1,400 NEW STUDENT FLATS IN LINCOLN A Derbyshire-based brickwork, scaffolding and drywall business has laid its one millionth brick (representing over 200km of bricklaying) at Lincoln’s prestigious new student village, St Marks.

Keith Shipley said: “The new student housing in Lincoln is extremely impressive, and we have felt enormously proud to be involved.

The team at Phoenix Brickwork have worked so hard on this development and it has been exciting to see the student accommodation take shape.

Phoenix Brickwork was awarded a £4m masonry package in 2020 to deliver almost 1,400 student flats as part of a £75 million scheme. Ten separate student accommodation buildings make up the project, which has been constructed on behalf of the University of Lincoln. Early work included the partial demolition of St Mark’s Retail Park, off Tritton Road, to create space for the new development. The University of Lincoln said it needs the extra accommodation to meet anticipated future demand from existing and new students. As well as the ten student accommodation buildings, the scheme will also deliver new retail and leisure, housing, a hotel, and improved parking. Once completed, the new properties will be managed and maintained by the university. Keith Shipley and Karl Hunt, Site Managers for Phoenix Brickwork, have been instrumental in overseeing the company’s contribution to the development.

£600,000 INVESTMENT IN NEW FACTORY AND NEW SHOWROOM PUTS CUMBERNAULD’S CUBE GLASS ON TRACK FOR FURTHER GROWTH Scottish glass and aluminium specialist Cube Glass has invested in excess of £600,000 in new premises which doubles its previous capacity and will take the fast-growing business to the next level. The precision manufacturer has fitted out and moved into an 8,400 sq ft custom-designed factory close to its previous 4,200 sq ft premises in Cumbernauld’s Tannoch Place, which it has now let. The expansion, which comes on the back of a series of lucrative contract wins, means the innovative company will also be positioned to open a new state-of-the-art showroom next month to highlight its products.

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It is the latest development for the fastgrowing company, which celebrates 10 years of trading this June, has established a strong presence in sectors such as education, health, industrial, social care, commercial property and residential homes, partnering with recognised specialist suppliers such as Senior Architectural Systems, Metal Technology and Schüco. The new showroom will feature supplier products such as sliding and bifold doors, curtain walling and windows, as well as the full range of entrance doors by high-end French manufacturer Bel’M. The company focuses on curtain walling, doors, windows, glass roofing systems and shop fronts as well as bullet, bomb and blast resistant glass.

Company News CALMA GROUP MARKS 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH MAJOR NEW CONTRACT WIN Leading fast-track hotel fit out and refurbishment specialist Calma Group is marking its landmark 10th anniversary after winning a major new contract for a hotel forming part of a £200m mixed-used development in Manchester city centre. Located on Deansgate, the overall development is being brought forward by Property Alliance Group in a joint venture with Starwood Capital. Calma Group has been appointed principal contractor for the refurbishment of the former Renaissance Hotel, which is at the heart of the new scheme and will be relaunched under the SH Hotel & Resorts’ ‘Treehouse’ brand.

DUMFRIES AND GALLOWAY COUNCIL APPOINTS HUB SOUTH WEST TO DELIVER THE NEW DUMFRIES HIGH SCHOOL Dumfries and Galloway Council has appointed hub South West Scotland, the construction and infrastructure-focused partnership which works with local authorities and private sector enterprises in Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway, to develop the new Dumfries High School.

The contract marks the Glasgow-based contractor’s next phase of growth, according to managing director and cofounder Andrew Lafferty. The joint venture is redeveloping the original hotel as an alternative to demolishing and rebuilding. This will result in significant environmental benefits, generating around 40 per cent less CO2 compared with constructing a new-build hotel of the same size. In addition to the redeveloped hotel, the Renaissance development will offer office space, car parking and a residential tower featuring 300 new homes. The proposals for the Renaissance site are designed by Jon Matthews Architects. Avison Young is the planning consultant and Planit IE is the landscape architect.

One of 25 projects selected as part of Phase 2 of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Programme (LEIP), the new school will accommodate a school roll of 796 pupils with construction on the existing site. The project will deliver enhanced Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) learning, embedded within the curricular offering and facilities shaped to support this and enhance the pupil experience. Teacher training will also be a focus, allowing opportunities for new and aspiring teachers and educationalists to develop their skills in spaces design to support their development and growth, within a real school environment. In addition, the new Dumfries High School will continue to deliver enhanced sports and PE facilities.

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Latest News SOHO ESTATES BRINGS NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES TO CENTRAL LONDON’S GREEK STREET WITH SOHO HOUSING Soho Housing, soon to celebrate 50 years of providing social and affordable homes in the capital’s West End, has today announced that it is letting eight new homes in the heart of Soho. As part of the Ilona Rose House development, Soho Estates has developed these contemporary twobedroom apartments set in historic Greek Street, which will have a range of new amenities nearby. Each flat offers a modern living and dining area, a separate kitchen and access to private outdoor space and has been constructed with high-quality fittings

occupying new office space. An outdoor seating area will also be located in the courtyard, accompanied by additional food and beverage outlets. Now the project is complete, all eight homes will be let at a sub-market rent to ensure affordability for local working people. Soho Housing is partnering with Pinnacle Letting Agents to identify tenants who meet these criteria.

and fixtures. The properties range in size from 72sqm to 84sqm and are accompanied by an accessible lift, bicycle storage and a secure access system. Environmental sustainability, a key feature of Soho Housing’s development standards, also sits at the heart of the project. The development will be highly energy efficient, with key measures including an air-sourced heating system, ensuring that every flat is EPC rated C or above.

opportunities to the heart of London. These include a new bar and nightclub and businesses such as Warner Bros. and Soho Estates

Alongside these affordable urban homes, the stateof-the-art development brings a host of commercial

MOTT MACDONALD RESPONSE TO UK GOVERNMENT’S ENERGY SECURITY STRATEGY “We welcome the renewed political focus on energy and acknowledgment of the need to tackle the challenges of energy security and the climate crisis. The drive to netzero must remain at the heart of the government’s energy policy, along with affordability.

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The properties play a key role in Soho Housing’s development strategy, which aims to create more affordable homes in central London to ensure greater numbers can live in the heart of the capital and sustain the area as a vibrant and diverse residential community.

With our industry partners we have been championing the creation of a visibly independent energy body charged with taking a systemwide view. We think that the future system operator has the potential to bring a stepchange in energy thinking in the UK. News that the government will support eight new

nuclear reactors is a positive statement of intent that will help to give the nuclear industry the confidence necessary to invest in the developing skills and capability. We also welcome the ongoing commitment to offshore wind and stepping up ambition for hydrogen. We see these plans as a positive step towards decarbonising the UK power system by 2035, alongside other, much-needed, measures such as improved efficiency, demand side management and storage, digitalisation and community level solutions.” Clare Rhodes-James Development director, Mott MacDonald

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Project News

FORMER CARPETRIGHT SITE TO BE TRANSFORMED INTO STYLISH YORK HOTEL The site of a former Carpetright outlet in York is set to be transformed into a stylish hotel thanks to leading contractor Clegg Construction. The Nottingham-based company has been awarded a £16m contract by CBRE Investment Management to develop York’s sixth Premier Inn on Peasholme Green, just a five-minute walk from the city centre.

The 188-bedroom, fourstorey development has been designed to enhance the local street scene and respect the urban grain by using materials in keeping with the historic nature of the area. It combines this approach with the latest in environmental technologies including air source heat pumps, heat recovery ventilation, LED

SPECTRUM PROPERTIES TO PRESERVE HISTORIC MANSION HOUSE IN TOLLCROSS PARK IN PRESTIGIOUS DEVELOPMENT FOR GLASGOW’S EAST END The future of the A-listed Mansion House, the Scottish baronial masterpiece in Tollcross Park in Glasgow, has been secured by its sale to a local property company which has already contributed hugely to the preservation and enhancement of some of the East End’s most outstanding buildings. Family-owned developer Spectrum Properties, which operates all over Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirlingshire, has paid an undisclosed sum to save the building and plans to spend a further £1 million converting its 13 spacious apartments for rental.

The purchase, from Shettleston Housing Association, is the latest development in the building’s 174-year history and will create much-needed homes in the park, which is regarded as one of the East End’s most attractive assets. The Mansion House, built by the architect David Bryce for the mine-owning Dunlop family, features classic crow-stepped gables, corbelled turrets and pointed roofs. The new homes will be served by a private road sweeping through the park. Spectrum Properties has been instrumental in preserving much of Glasgow’s Victorian architectural and industrial heritage and has invested tens of millions of pounds in saving and repurposing properties of recognised architectural merit. It is anticipated that the new properties in the Mansion House will be ready for market by the end of next year.

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lighting, photovoltaic cells, and six electric car charging points, to ensure the carbon footprint of the building is kept to a minimum. Lyndon Bowler, the contracts manager on the project, said the development will be a valuable asset to York by providing extra visitor accommodation and significantly enhancing a historic area of the city. The hotel’s location is just 1.7km from the train station and a 10-minute walk from York Minster, with nearby shops being served by more than 15 different bus routes.

Clegg Construction, which has its Head Office in Nottingham and regional offices in Thorpe Park, Leeds, and Milton Hall, Cambridge, is an approved supplier to Whitbread PLC, owners of Premier Inn. This will be the third Premier Inn project the company has worked on in the Yorkshire area and follows on from the building of the Premier Inn at the Arndale Centre at Headingley, Leeds, and the recently completed re-cladding of the Premier Inn in Leeds City Centre. The engineer on the project is Simpson Associates, and the project manager is Reach Project Management.

LAND & WATER STARTS PHASE TWO OF WORKS AT BLENHEIM After completing phase one of works at the end of 2020, leading wet civil engineering firm Land & Water, is now starting phase two of a wider restoration project at Blenheim Estate. The restoration works, which are due to start this month, will see Land & Water begin the first dredge of Queen’s Pool in over 100 years. The lake was created by Sir Capability Brown around 1763 as part of his extensive re-landscaping of the World Heritage Site. Land & Water will be removing 300,000 cubic metres of silt over the course of the nine months, which is enough to fill the height of Wembley Stadium, to return the lake to its ideal depth

of two metres from its current shallows of 30cm. HVO fuel is a sustainable solution being harnessed by Land & Water as it continues to show its commitment towards becoming carbon net zero by 2030 and safeguarding the future of the planet. Land & Water has also been dedicated towards its social responsibility and has been working alongside the team at Blenheim to involve the local community in the restoration project through a competition that aims to name the specialist plant being used during the works. The winning names are Winston, Clementine, Swan, Mallard, Reg Who Likes To Dredge and Fair Rosamund.

Project News

TRANSFORMING TEESSIDE’S HOUSING CHOICE A North East construction and regeneration specialist is starting work on a supported housing village in Redcar. Vistry Partnerships North East has secured planning consent and agreed contracts for the 75 homes, which will be constructed for Beyond Housing, within the development at Kirkleatham Green. The homes have been specially designed for customers with a wide range of support needs, including adults over 55, residents with accessibility requirements and others with learning disabilities. They will include 31 two bedroomed and 14 one bedroomed apartments, six wheelchair accessible two bedroomed bungalows, 12 single bedroomed quarter houses and 12 two bedroomed flats. The aim is to enable people to live independently for longer, by providing appropriate housing, communal facilities and outdoor spaces - with flexible levels of support and care assistance where required. The homes have been designed to be extremely energy efficient, reducing carbon emissions - when compared to a traditional residential unit with a combi gas boiler - by 50%.

This has been achieved by the inclusion of Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery, which reclaims heat from extracted air to pre-heat the incoming fresh air, minimum heat loss insulation and Air Source Heat Pump hot water cylinders. The project will bring Vistry Partnerships North East’s recent investment in Teesside to £198 million. Current projects include mixed tenure developments at Bracken Grange, in Middlesbrough – 350 homes – and Kirkleatham Green, Redcar – 375 homes – next to which, the supported housing village will be constructed, and a detailed planning application has been lodged for 385 homes at Summerville Farm, Stockton. Vistry Partnerships North East is active on 12 construction sites around the region with a gross development value of just under £350 million and has a further four proposed projects currently in the planning process.

The homes have been designed to be extremely energy efficient, reducing carbon emissions when compared to a traditional residential unit with a combi gas boiler - by 50%.

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 09

Fleet Management and Vehicles

SISK AND JCB DRIVING CHANGE WITH IRELAND’S FIRST ELECTRIC TELEHANDLER John Sisk & Son has become the first construction and engineering firm in Ireland to invest in an electric telehandler. The JCB 525-60E electric telehandler is 100 percent electric, zero emissions piece of plant machinery. This is a significant step in the Sisk sustainability journey, as they aim to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2030. With no diesel engine this new electric JCB telehandler offers near silent operations on site combined with health benefits of zero emissions and significantly reducing energy costs. It also has considerably lower operating costs compared to a conventional telehandler in terms of its maintenance requirements. The JCB 525-60E electric telehandler model has two electric motors – one for driveline, the other for lifting operations – powered by a 96-volt lithium-ion battery. The hydraulic system is completely new and also features ‘smart regeneration’ with power recovered during boom lowering and retraction fed back into the battery. JCB state this new innovative telehandler, charged by 24kWh battery, powers a full day on a single charge. Ian O’Connor Energy Manager, John Sisk & Son said: “We are very excited to receive this next generation JCB electric telehandler, the first of its kind in the country. By the end of Quarter 1 this year, Sisk will have invested almost €2m in our Plant renewal and expansion programme. Each investment includes a weighting to carbon output as part of our

investment criteria. With the inception of our 2030 Sustainability Roadmap in 2021, Sisk has a clear vision aligned with United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals. This investment is a major milestone towards achieving our goal to be carbon neutral by 2030 while supporting clients and the wider community in achieving their own goals.” Denis Murray MD ECI JCB comments:

It is fantastic to see Ireland’s leading provider of construction services embrace this pioneering technology as it continues its impressive sustainability journey. We are proud to support John Sisk & Son and to see our first electric Loadall in Ireland working on high profile projects in Dublin City Centre. Paul Mabey JCB Electric Technology Sales Manager: “JCB is the world market leader for telescopic handlers and the introduction of the JCB 525-60E Loadall means equipment electrification can now spread further into the general construction and industrial sectors. Designed to deliver the same performance as the conventional diesel-powered machine, the 525-60E enables zero-emissions operation when working inside buildings, in underground construction and maintenance work or in urban areas with stringent emissions regulations and low emissions zones. It is proving extremely popular with those organisations striving to be at the forefront of reducing the carbon footprint of the industry”.

JOHN F HUNT POWER INVEST £10M IN STAGE V GENERATORS In probably the largest single purchase of Stage V sets dedicated to the UK Market, John F Hunt have ordered 180 new units ranging from 20 to 500kVA from Bruno Generator Group. The Italian manufactured sets have integrated telemetry, automatic regeneration without loss of power, and have been designed to Hunt’s specification, safeguarding them from site related refuelling problems. Stage V generators, rely upon the introduction of AdBlue into the fuel system. They create one twentieth of the pollution compared to the old Stage 3A sets and represent a significant and positive step towards the construction industry ‘cleaning up its act’. With the increasing demand for site power either for charging cars or hybrid excavators, if no mains supply is accessible, portable generators are the only viable option and as more of the UK’s major cities follow London’s approach, in introducing low-emission zones, these sets enable full compliance with the emissions standards stipulated by NRMM regulations. David Hunt, Managing Director of John F Hunt Power said “This major investment of over £10m sees 180 new generators added to our fleet as from Spring 2022 and paves the way for future-proofing our business for our clients and employees. But most of all it enables us to offer the cleanest sustainable power going forward. It’s a real game changer” He went on to say “However it comes at a cost, as the new sets are incredibly expensive, and you don’t get much for you £10 million these days! Nevertheless, it’s something we must all accept on our collective journey to net carbon zero.”

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*Up to £100 a day applies to vehicles operating within the London Ultra Low Emission Zone from April 2019, and soon in proposed low emission zones (LEZ) across major towns and cities in the UK.

Company News

RUUKKI STARTS COLLABORATION WITH M4C LTD TO GROW BUSINESS IN THE UK Ruukki Construction and Sales & Business consultancy M4C Ltd based in Northumberland in the North-East of England, are pleased to announce their strategic collaboration to develop the UK market for Ruukki’s range of high-quality steel based composite products for walls & roofs of both commercial & residential buildings.

BELLWAY NAMES HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AFTER SECOND WORLD WAR HERO BOMBER PILOT Bellway has named a new development in honour of a Second World War hero pilot who crashed landed in the village after a daring bombing raid over Germany.

to the target. It was while trying to get back to base in North Yorkshire that his fuel ran out and he was forced to crash land the stricken aircraft in Ryhope.

Barton Meadows in Ryhope, near Sunderland, has been named after Cyril Barton, VC, who bravely steered his stricken Halifax bomber away from houses and pit-head workings in the village to crash in a field on 30 March 1944.

Cyril Barton, VC, died on the way to hospital but the other three crew members left on board survived the impact. Cyril was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery.

Earlier in the night, Flying Officer Barton, VC, had continued to fly to Nuremberg to drop his bombs despite having two fuel tanks punctured by Luftwaffe night-fighters on the way

Bellway’s development will be delivered alongside the completion of the Ryhope Doxford Link Road, a £9 million scheme connecting the B1286 in the west to the A1018 in the east.

In memory of Flying Officer Barton’s heroic sacrifice, Bellway are set to name the new development of 60 new homes on an 11.9-acre site, north of Burdon Lane in Ryhope, after him, the plans for which are set to be approved. Barton Meadows is part of a wider project which forms part of the South Sunderland Growth Area where approximately 1,000 homes are being built across the wider site. Bellway’s development will be delivered alongside the completion of the Ryhope Doxford Link Road, a £9 million scheme connecting the B1286 in the west to the A1018 in the east. Bellway Durham is delivering new homes across the region in Teesside and County Durham.

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M4C was founded in 2018 by Managing Director Matthew Curtis and has been providing strategic consultancy and business support to the Construction, Engineering & Chemical Sectors. Prior to M4C Matthew was Managing Director of Trimo (UK) LTD a similar business to Ruukki that was involved in supply of building envelope materials to projects such as Manchester Airport terminal 2 transformation and Aberdeen Exhibition & conference centre. For more than 20 years Matthew has worked in the sector for organisations such as Saint Gobain, Hilti, Akzo Nobel & Syntha Pulvin so knows the sector well. Ruukki Construction is a supplier of steel-based building products and services for roofs and walls for sustainable buildings. We employ around 1,500 people and have 11 specialized manufacturing sites. Our strong presence in 10 European countries enables us to serve customers locally with our main brands Ruukki and Plannja. Our comparable net sales in 2021 were around EUR 590 million. We are of Nordic origin, part of SSAB, sharing values, and long experience in steel and construction industry. SSAB is a Nordic and US-based steel company with employees in over 50 countries. SSAB is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and has a secondary listing on Nasdaq Helsinki.

Company News

KAM PROJECT CONSULTANTS CREATES NEW JOB OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE OPENING OF NOTTINGHAM OFFICE KAM Project Consultants announce further expansion as they move into Nottingham. The new location will allow KAM to expand on its existing portfolio in the East Midlands where they are currently working on several high-profile projects. The office will be headed by KAM co-founder and director, Mike Wilcock, and closely supported by senior associate, Mat Daley, and associate project manager, Nick Orton. Both colleagues are re-locating from KAM’s Leicester office, with a number of new colleagues joining in the coming months. Mat Daley commented: “The East Midlands industrial market has continued to thrive, with vast amounts of money going into new warehousing thanks to the region’s central position. The opening of the Nottingham office ensures KAM are best placed to support this growing demand and allow us to better serve both new and existing clients. “With several of the Leicester team joining me on the move, I look forward to working alongside them to embrace new opportunities and strengthen KAM’s position as market leaders.”

Addressing the Nottingham opening, Mike Wilcock commented:

We are delighted to be growing our presence and expanding our team of cost managers and project managers in the East Midlands. We have had great success over the last eight years delivering logistics, distribution and manufacturing facilities for both developers and customers across the UK and overseas. Opening an office in Nottingham is an exciting next step in KAM’s structured growth plan and we can’t wait to see what the road ahead brings.

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 13

People On The Move

BOMAG GB APPOINTS NEW MD TO LEAD IT THROUGH NEXT PHASE OF GROWTH World-leading compaction equipment manufacturer, BOMAG, has appointed a new managing director in the UK to lead the company through its next phase of growth, as it launches new products built specifically for the British market. Market stalwart, Alan Batty, who had led BOMAG GB for 18 years, has retired and Stuart Truckel, a former director of Bearmach – the specialist Land Rover parts supplier – has been drafted in. Alan has been instrumental in achieving market leader status for BOMAG GB in the compaction industry, having successfully navigated the pandemic and Brexit periods, and won contracts with HS2 – taking it to £37.5m turnover and a 35-person team.

development at Bearmach, Stuart is well-placed to navigate BOMAG through its next phase of growth, as the construction markets continue to thrive post-pandemic and post-Brexit. Simultaneously, BOMAG has introduced two new products to the British market, following an extensive research and development phase, including a 1m and 2m milling machine. Experienced headhunter Simon Robinson, co-founder of Red Diamond Executive, was appointed to source Alan’s replacement, following BOMAG’s extensive search for a recruitment partner.

Now, with almost 25 years’ experience under his belt, from working within the aggregates and waste industries at Finning UK, to being responsible for export markets and product

HARRIS CM STRENGTHENS BOARD AND APPOINTS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

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14 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Yorkshire based multi-disciplinary construction company Harris CM has completed a board-level restructure and appointed a new managing director as it targets strong operational growth and £70 million turnover this year. Neil Silcock has been appointed as managing director and will assume overall operational responsibility from Jason Adlam, who will continue as Harris CM’s CEO, focussing on building new and existing stakeholder relationships. In addition, Jason will continue to deliver property development projects, which has become a key growth area for the company in recent years. Silcock brings a wealth of experience to the role after spending the last 14 years at construction company Simpson (York) Limited, where he was managing director for the past five years. In addition, Rhys Davies has been appointed as finance director at Harris CM. The position will form part of his wider role as group CFO for Tate Group, which is headed up by Harris CM’s chairman Shane Tate, who provides strategic direction, whilst delivering opportunities in the industrial, commercial and residential development sectors. The board also comprises of commercial director, Jason Collins and construction director, James Phillips.

INTERNATIONAL GREEK PIONEER IN THE ELECTRONIC TRADE OF NATURAL STONES LAUNCHES THE WHOLESALE ESHOP FOR MARBLE SLABS WWW.STONETECHB2B.COM Stonetech, a leading company in the field of natural stones, marbles, and artificial surfaces, launches the wholesale e-shop of marble slabs, stonetechb2b.com, aiming to offer its customers in Greece and abroad unique products from leading quarries, while at the same time it opens the doors of its new showroom near Athens, with a total area of 3,500sqm. Responding to the contemporary needs of the industry, the company innovates and invests in e-commerce, in order to digitally connect its customers, and professionals of the industry, with its products. The slabs available for sale through the e-shop stonetechb2b.com, are from owned and cooperative quarries in Greece and abroad.

Professionals from the natural stone industry can register to the platform and purchase the products they are interested in, while construction and technical companies, architects, and interior designers can explore the materials and express their interest in special dimensions and applications. New showroom At the same time, Stonetech opens the doors of its new showroom near Athens, with a total covered area of 3,500sqm. Natural stone professionals, architects, contractors, and entrepreneurs can see up close and choose the slabs and materials they want. The space operates from Monday to Saturday by appointment, keeping all the necessary protection measures and bringing a new aesthetics and perception to the industry. On the occasion of the launch of the new eshop, Stonetech CEO Nikos Gonianakis said: “Our world is changing, and our industry must follow the progress to offer more opportunities to professionals. Our e-shop is an innovation that, in addition to the development of our commercial capabilities, raises its stature to unpredictable factors, such as the consequences of the pandemic, which greatly affected the transactions, including the lack of mobility. At the same time, our new exhibition space will be at the disposal of our partners so that they can see the materials uploaded on our platform, as well as many other natural stones and artificial surfaces. These are two important investments of our company, which cover significant gaps of the industry and make us very proud“. Website: www.stonetechb2b.com

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 15

Events & Awards News SCOTLAND’S JOHN LAWRIE TUBULARS LTD AWARDED QUEEN’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 2022 A Scottish company has been honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development. John Lawrie Tubulars Ltd is one of 226 organisations nationally to be recognised with a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Announced Thursday 21 April, John Lawrie Tubulars Ltd has been recognised for its excellence in Sustainable Development. Employing 38 people with operations in Montrose, Scotland and Scunthorpe, England, John Lawrie Tubulars Ltd is one of the largest purchasers and suppliers of steel tubular products in the UK.

Following the commission in 2020 of a completely bespoke life cycle assessment (LCA) based on its own unique steel tubular management processes, the company can formally detail that for every tonne of its repurposed steel tubulars used there is a carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) saving of 97.21% over the production of newly manufactured prime steel products. The report presents the environmental impact and benefits of the repurposing and onward delivery of John Lawrie Tubulars’ products, comparing the impact of repurposed tubulars to that of newly manufactured prime steel products throughout their lifecycle. John Lawrie Tubulars repurposes redundant steel tubulars from the North Sea oil and gas industry as a high-quality alternative to new manufactured prime steel products in the construction piling industry. Extending the life of materials through reuse, repurpose and recycling is at the core of the John Lawrie Tubulars business with the aim of minimising waste, pollution, water and the consumption of finite resources, improving sustainability, reducing environmental impacts and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

K SYSTEMS SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS TALL BUILDING AWARDS Kilwaughter Minerals brand, K Systems, has been named as a finalist on three projects at this year’s prestigious Tall Building Awards, in recognition of the company’s position as a leading system provider of External Wall Insulation (EWI). The Tall Buildings Awards intend to celebrate those that are developing unique design and engineering solutions to maximise space in city centres where demand is high, whilst creating a legacy of iconic superstructures that are transforming the UK’s built environment. K Systems was shortlisted in the Best Tall Building Façade and Fenestration Engineering Project category for its work on the River Gardens development in London. A further two entries were shortlisted for the Best Tall Building Retrofit Project award. These were in recognition of K Systems’ role in the restoration of Cartcraigs in Glasgow and Gaywood House in Bristol. The Tall Buildings Awards are set to take place in June in Central London following the Tall Buildings Conference.

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HENRY BROTHERS MIDLANDS ACHIEVES ROSPA GOLD STANDARD IN HEALTH AND SAFETY PRACTICE Leading construction firm, Henry Brothers, has been awarded an internationallyacclaimed RoSPA Gold Award for its outstanding health and safety practices while delivering the Sherwood Lodge project for its clients, Nottinghamshire Police and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service. The prestigious award recognises organisations that go above and beyond to ensure the safety of its employees, contractors, and clients, and is one of

the most sought-after achievements for health and safety professionals worldwide. Sherwood Lodge, part of the new headquarters for Nottinghamshire Police and Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, comprises shared office space, conference rooms, a tactical and police control room, training classrooms, and a sports hall. Henry Brothers handed over the building in January.

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Technology Stephen Kelso, Group Product Design Manager for Cala Homes

opportunity to roll out sustainable technology, contributing to the net zero operation of homes.

UK FIRST TECHNOLOGY COULD BE THE KEY TO SUSTAINABLE HOMES Cala, E.ON, Energy Assets & SP Energy Networks launch groundbreaking pilot Innovative new technology which could enable new communities across the nation to become significantly more sustainable is being used for the first time in the UK. Major UK housebuilder Cala Homes is working with E.ON, Energy Assets and SP Energy Networks to pilot a bespoke solution which helps harness green energy to work towards decarbonising the grid – tackling a huge barrier faced by the industry as it seeks to become more sustainable. The dynamic technology is being piloted in an initial 77 homes at Cala’s flagship development within the new 800-home Maidenhill community in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow, with plans to roll it out further thereafter. Stephen Kelso, Group Product Design Manager for Cala Homes, said: “Building more sustainable communities is a huge task for the housebuilding sector and a major focus for Cala. New, innovative technology is vital to this, and we’ve been researching and trialling tech that can help us make net zero carbon a reality – but it’s not a case of just switching this on. The right infrastructure needs to be in place to support it.

on the grid. So, we asked the question: how do we meet this challenge and allow a development like this to fulfil its green energy potential? The result is what we believe to be a unique collaboration between a housebuilder, energy company and network operator to find a solution.”

The technology developed by E.ON is the first of its kind in the UK and there are plans to roll it out in other territories. The solution is designed to allow energy generated in a home – for example through PV panels – which is not consumed right away to be exported and used elsewhere, either in other homes in the area or into the grid. It also ensures the energy being transferred to the grid does not exceed its maximum load. Through gateways installed in each home, the smart solution manages the energy flows, enabling the connection of technologies like PV panels, air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points to work in harmony. By allowing the load of green energy within a large development to be managed without overwhelming the grid, Cala believes it will have more

“Communities like Maidenhill – with 800 homes overall, a new primary school and community amenities – have huge implications for the availability and use of energy. Making a site of this size as sustainable as possible brings additional considerations and puts more pressure

18 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Without a solution like this, certain sites would require significant investment in additional substations, which could make them unviable, but Cala believes that with this smart load management system, the possibilities for creating, harnessing and using green energy are greatly enhanced, offering wider implications for housebuilding across the UK and beyond. Stephen Kelso continued: “Enabling technology like this opens up a world of low carbon elements that we can install in homes and neighbourhoods to help work towards our net zero aspirations. Our homeowners and their communities will see the benefits too, with more efficient and sustainable homes meaning potential energy and money savings. We are excited to see what impact this revolutionary technology might have on the sector as a whole, as we work towards a greener future.” Chris Lovatt, Chief Operating Officer for Energy Infrastructure Services at E.ON said: “New homes can lead the way in decarbonising heating, transport and wider energy use, but we have to make sure networks are future-proofed so customers can get maximum advantage – whether that’s being able to share the energy they generate locally, exporting it to the grid, or just having the most sustainable home they can in a more affordable way. “The UK will require hundreds of thousands of new low carbon homes to be built in the coming decades, connected to a smart energy network. Our solution will enable homes to be built to the highest sustainability standards – with heat pumps, solar panels and EV chargers – and connected to the grid where otherwise there could be insufficient network capacity. This collaboration with Cala Homes is a step towards ensuring that new communities across the UK realise their low carbon energy potential.” For more information on CALA’s Sustainability Strategy, visit www.cala.co.uk/sustainability.

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Project News

STEPNELL WORKS ON SIXTH DORSET SCHOOL PROJECT THIS YEAR National contractor Stepnell is bolstering its reputation in the education sector across the South West, as the business works on its sixth school project in Dorset in the operating year. Stepnell’s work across the multi-million-pound school projects, which include renovating buildings dating from the early twentieth to the twenty-first century, is contributing to the county’s upgrading programme and adding to an ever-growing portfolio of education building expertise. Stepnell began their sixth project, a major renovation at Coombe House, on the outskirts of Shaftesbury in October 2021. Formerly St Mary’s School - a Roman Catholic day and boarding school for girls that was closed in July 2020 due to funding issues - the 165,000 square feet of mixed-use accommodation set within 55 acres was purchased by Dorset Council for £10 million as part of the council’s fiveyear £145 million capital programme. The project is due to complete in spring 2022.

to the remainder of the school at all times whilst implementing all new M&E and IT services. Provision of new classrooms, new windows and doors and associated ventilation.

Formation of new IC’S and assistance with the decant of a number of classrooms. All works are taking place in a live school environment with works in close proximity to occupied classrooms.

The project at Ferndown comprised of alterations to classrooms through new stud partitions, suspended ceilings and new flooring. At Blandford Upper, new ceilings, toilets and shower cubicles formed part of the refurbishment of the changing rooms. Remedial fire stopping works and fire doors were implemented between compartments to the roof void of block four. Furthermore, fire stopping measures were installed between the stairwells in block H and the adjoining class and storerooms.

Corfe Hills School works are part of the efficiency estate programme and involve extensive remodelling and refurbishment of an existing year block. Provision of all new M&E Services, and IT Services. This also includes the provision of existing services

COMPLETION OF £6M DEVELOPMENT OF ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOMES IN TEESSIDE Karbon Homes is celebrating the completion of 36 much-needed new energy efficient, affordable homes in Hartlepool, Teesside. The £6million development, which started on site in 2020, is a flagship in Karbon’s ambitious plans to deliver greener, more energy efficient homes, helping lower the carbon emissions produced by housing and helping residents save money on their energy bills.

David McKenzie, who were over the moon to be offered a two-bedroom bungalow. The homes include seven bungalows, which are available for Affordable Rent, and a mix of two, three and four bedroom houses available on a Rent to Buy basis, giving customers the chance to pay 80% of the local market rent for their homes, with an option to buy after five years.

All the homes have been built using Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF), a Modern Method of Construction which, alongside energy efficiency benefits, helps speed up construction.

The Northern housing association, which delivers hundreds of new affordable homes across the North East and Yorkshire each year, worked with local development partner Gus Robinson Developments and specialist contractor Applebridge to bring the development to fruition.

The first residents are settling into their new homes, including Christine and

The development was supported with £2m funding from Homes England.

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Project News

CONSTRUCTION WORK BEGINS ON SUMMERRELEASE HOMES IN OXFORDSHIRE VILLAGE

L-R David Wilson Homes' Craig Leverton, Campbell Gregg and Rob Allen

Construction work has officially started on David Wilson Homes’ upcoming Chiltern Grange development in the desirable village of Benson.

GREEN LIGHT FOR SUNDERLAND CIVIC CENTRE REDEVELOPMENT The redevelopment of Sunderland’s Civic Centre site into a new residential community, has been given the green light. A planning application for 265 new homes was approved at the City Council’s Planning and Highways (East) Committee meeting.

The leading developer’s Managing Director Campbell Gregg, along with Sales Director Rob Allen, Site Manager Paul Brown, and Construction Director Craig Leverton, were recently onsite to cut the sod at the 240-home community on Watlington Road, which is set to deliver a collection of two to five bedroom properties. The development will also underpin approximately 480 jobs for local people during its time and will bring significant investments of more than £3 million to the area. Nestled at the foot of Chiltern Hills (AONB) with the River Thames flowing through the village, the development’s idyllic location offers a range of amenities in the village with excellent road and rail links to Wallingford, Oxford, Reading and London. With the first homes due to be released this summer, house hunters are being encouraged to register their interest with the David Wilson Homes sales team to be among the first to hear about the available properties.

North East regeneration and construction specialist Vistry Partnerships will deliver the project which, in addition to the new housing, will provide high quality public open spaces and cycling and pedestrian links, improving access to the city centre. Of particular note is a proposal to recreate Saint George’s Square – bomb damaged during the Second World War and lost to redevelopment in the 60s – with the Grade II listed Saint George’s House as the focal point. The architecture and streetscape will be sensitive to the parkside location and the Ashbrooke Conservation Area.

BUILDING GREENER HOMES SAFELY

The completed homes will be sold under Vistry’s house building brand Linden Homes and will range from one to four bedroomed homes, with many benefitting from views across Mowbray Park. A complex demolition programme will be undertaken to clear the site ready for the new development. The civic centre redevelopment is part of a wider plan to build more than 7,000 new homes across the city by 2030. This will ensure that Sunderland has the volume and variety of homes it needs to attract and retain a diverse range of residents.

In the current climate, more businesses than ever are choosing to support the UK economy by purchasing homegrown products and brands. At West Fraser, formerly known as Norbord, all engineered wood panels are made in the UK and the company is committed to making better products for a sustainable future. The latest generation of OSB3, SterlingOSB Zero, is made at the stateof-the-art facility in Inverness, Scotland. Each board has a smooth finish and is made without adding any formaldehyde, so is safer to work with and builds greener homes. The range includes SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 and SterlingOSB Zero T&G. For specifiers and housebuilders looking for an OSB supplier who is committed to sustainable production and supply, West Fraser is the one. With visible end-to-end supply chains and dedicated, streamlined logistics, coupled with excellent customer service, more companies are choosing West Fraser as their supply partner of choice. • • • • •

Streamlined logistics Sustainable supply chain Improved product availability Recyclable packaging Excellent technical and customer support

To find out more about West Fraser’s products for housebuilders, get in touch with Dan Clarke – email Daniel.Clarke@westfraser.com or download product brochures from the housebuilder page of the West Fraser website https://uk.westfraser.com/housebuilders/ For further information call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com 25/04/2022 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 2110:09:47

CM2522065- Westfraser-QP.indd 1

Show Preview - Digital Construction Week

DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION WEEK IS BACK ON 18-19 MAY Europe’s leading innovation and technology event for the built environment returns to ExCeL London on 18-19 May 2022.

Innovation Hub, the Government & Industry Interoperability Group (GIIG) and Turner & Townsend, with more details to be revealed soon.

Over two days this May, Digital Construction Week (DCW) will return to offer insight and inspiration that will help the construction industry build better. The show is a must-attend for anyone who wants to get up to date with the latest innovations revolutionising the built environment.

The People & Change Theatre, which focuses on the human side of business transformation, will also return to the show for a second year. Sessions will cover topics including behavioural change, how to embrace new ways of working, using tech to engage and communicate with staff, strategies for inclusivity, diversity, collaboration and wellbeing in the workplace.

Visitors will meet over 150 big-name brands and cutting-edge start-ups showcasing the latest tech, tools and solutions for digital construction. Plus, they’ll hear from the industry’s brightest minds and get up to speed with key trends in the free-to-attend education programme featuring 300+ expert speakers. And this year the show is putting the spotlight on one of the industry’s most pressing issues – net zero strategy and the move to decarbonise the built environment – with the introduction of a brand-new theatre. New Net Zero Stage Co-founder of Digital Construction Week, Ollie Hughes explains:

We’re excited to introduce the Net Zero Stage sponsored by Autodesk at DCW this year. We’re working in partnership with independent industry group ZERO to produce a two-day programme packed with exciting and informative sessions. James Bowles from ZERO comments: “Construction of our built environment accounts for an estimated 12% of all CO2e emissions. We need to change this. We need to scale low carbon materials and methods of construction. We need to quickly embrace new ways of working and drive adoption of technologies that reduce emissions. We need to use digital tools to make carbon visible and accountable to project teams. We need to reduce the emissions released from material extraction, transportation, processing, and all construction activities.

“We’re excited to partner with DCW to deliver a series of presentations and panels in at this year’s show. The Net Zero Stage will include presentations from leading organisations, exemplar projects, and exciting new technologies. We’re working hard to create original content and see things differently.” Ollie Hughes continues: “Sessions on the Net Zero Stage will focus on how digital tools, methods and skills are improving the performance of projects and leading to lower emissions. And how maximising DfMA at renewably powered facilities can move us towards net zero emissions. They’ll also explore material selection, construction plant, equipment, labour and transport, and the role of technology and digitalisation in these areas.” Expert-led education programme As well as the Net Zero Stage, DCW also features eight other theatres that focus on some of the key areas shaping digital construction, including information management using BIM, geospatial, visualisation, digital transformation and more. The programme is packed with 160+ hours of free-to-attend content delivered by expert speakers from across the built environment. The Main Stage hosts high profile presenters and curated panel discussions covering the industry’s most pressing issues. This year the programme includes speakers from Bryden Wood, Construction

“ZERO is a growing industry group that wants to support the drive to low carbon construction.

DCW is also partnering with the Construction Innovation Hub, the Government & Industry Interoperability Group (GIIG), the UK BIM Framework, the UK BIM Alliance and Building Smart to bring visitors two brand new theatres offering the latest thinking in Information Management. More details will be announced soon. Cutting-edge innovations It’s not just in the theatres where the latest industry innovation will be in the spotlight. The exhibition at DCW will showcase the cutting-edge products that are driving change in the built environment. Visitors will see first-hand the solutions revolutionising construction using emerging technologies including digital twins, augmented reality, information management, automation and AI, DfMA, robotics and more. The list of inspiring brands that will be in attendance includes ALICE Technologies, Autodesk, Bluebeam, Deltek UK, Mission Room, OpenSpace, PlanRadar, Procore, Revizto, Scaled Robotics, Unity Technologies and many more. Visitors will enjoy exciting reveals and hands-on demos, with Hexagon back at DCW once again with Boston Dynamic’s agile mobile robot Spot and a series of exclusive launches. Ollie Hughes concludes: “It’s more important than ever that the industry gets together to connect, collaborate and innovate. We’re working hard to curate a stand-out event that acts as a platform for change by connecting decision makers with those developing transformative technologies for digital construction. We hope you can join us this May and be part of the future of the built environment.”

Digital Construction Week takes place at ExCeL London from 18-19 May 2022. For more information and to register for a free trade ticket, please visit www.digitalconstructionweek.com.

22 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

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JACKON SETS OUT THE FUTURE OF HOUSEBUILDING Come on to JACKON’s stand at UK Construction Week and find out how sustainable houses of the future will be built.

With cuts in emissions of up to 80% required and a ‘fabric first’ approach, the Standard will be the guiding principle of new housebuilding in the future.

JACKON has two construction systems - JACKODUR® Atlas and THERMOMUR® Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) - which between them are set to revolutionise UK house construction in the coming years. This housebuilding technology is growing in the UK at a time when the Government’s Future Homes Standard is set to be a key feature of the construction industry going forward, underpinning the green recovery of the housebuilding market in particular.

JACKON is ready for the changes that the Standard will bring and is in fact arguing for them to be even more rigorous. There will be new U-value targets, which will not be a problem for JACKON since the company’s THERMOMUR® 350 Super range - the company’s best-selling range in the UK - already achieves a u-value of 0.15 for walls with no added materials, and the JACKODUR® ATLAS system can be designed to achieve 0.11.

STAND: D32

JACKON brings its 60 years’ expertise in EPS (moulded expanded polystyrene) and XPS (extruded polystyrene) manufacturing to this market. JACKODUR® ATLAS uses XPS (extruded polystyrene) to create an insulated floor slab, while THERMOMUR® ICF uses EPS (moulded expanded polystyrene) to create the formwork. ICF is a modern construction method, which is widely used in Europe and North America, but is now rapidly growing in popularity in the UK as well. It integrates insulation materials into the concrete formwork,

totally revolutionising the way a house is constructed. As well as being easier and quicker to build, an ICF house provides considerable advantages during the life of a building. The benefits include: dramatically improved insulation and air tightness leading to reduced expenditure on heating or cooling; excellent acoustic performance; fire resistance; enhanced resilience to flood, extreme weather and seismic activity; rot and vermin resistance; versatility with regard to remodelling; minimal maintenance requirement; mortgage, insurance and planning acceptance. Developers who use the JACKON systems particularly value the fact that within the THERMOMUR® range JACKON has developed a unique high density EPS cavity closure of a sufficient density to allow doors and windows to be fixed directly to it – thereby eliminating cold bridging. The speed of a build programme using the JACKON products is made possible by the integration of the building components and a reduction in the need for extra onsite labour, especially in comparison to timber frame. Website: www.jackon.co.uk

Could an R&D claim put a halt to financial challenges for construction businesses? Companies within the construction industry are still navigating a perfect storm of rising overheads and continued disruption to global trade patterns. The price of materials rose steadily last year and the cost of living, fuel and energy prices have rocketed to an all-time high in 2022. Research and Development Specialists Ltd (RDS) is an expert in helping companies navigate the government’s HMRC tax incentive. It believes that many more construction firms could be eligible to claim. RDS has already helped to recover around £2.1million solely for 27 construction industry clients. The average R&D claim is around £53,000, a sum that could be even more valuable in the current economic backdrop. An initial fifteen-minute conversation is all it takes.

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Project All Images: © Buro Happold

BURO HAPPOLD DESIGNS STANDOUT STEEL STRUCTURE TO HOUSE THE FUTURE OF NEUTRON SCIENCE The unique steel structure covering the European Spallation Source (ESS) facility, designed by engineering consultants Buro Happold, has now been completed, marking a significant milestone of the construction works. The international research facility ESS, housing the world’s most powerful neutron source, is located in the Swedish city of Lund, and will create a pioneering multi-disciplinary research environment. At ESS, neutrons generated through spallation, will enable scientists to study materials on an atomic and molecular level. This will greatly benefit a variety of research fields such as life and environmental science, energy, materials and archaeology. The facility, designed by Henning Larsen and COBE architects, required a robust steel structure to cope with complex operational requirements and maximise flexibility during its use. Taking this into account, Buro Happold’s team of specialist engineers developed a unique structural design with large open spans to cover the Target building and associated Experimental Halls.

Due to the strict design criteria placed upon the building by the regulatory authorities, the Buro Happold team ensured the steel structure could meet stringent ‘worst-case’ design conditions. This included supporting up to seven metres of snow over portions of the roof and the ability to withstand an earthquake more severe than any recorded in modern history in this area. The cantilevering roof extending up to 35 metres beyond the perimeter of the building gives the facility a memorable visual identity, whilst still catering for extreme environmental loading. The cantilevered portions withstand dynamic wind conditions and snow, but also help counterbalance the deflections in the steelwork trusses over the adjacent Experimental Halls. Four operating overhead cranes, supplied by Munck and Dematek, provide great operational flexibility to the building. The crane in the central target building meets particularly high safety standards as it is required to transport heavy components and sometimes activated material resulting from the spallation process: It can lift 115 tonnes – the weight of a Boeing 787. The building’s outer structure was designed to cope with internal forces and movement caused not only by individual cranes, but also the many loading scenarios created when all cranes are in operation simultaneously. The various operational loads from the crane, together with the complex environmental loads, resulted in more than two million possible combinations of loading scenarios. This additional design challenge necessitated an engineering approach that benefitted from computational processes. As commercially available software was incapable of this level of analysis, Buro Happold developed an in-house programme to assist the selection of

the critical combinations and enable efficiency in the design process. This added yet another computational element to the support provided by the project team, complementing the façade panelisation study conducted with the façade engineering team and architects. Adam Pekala, project leader at Buro Happold explains: “The cladding of the overhanging roof is clad in L-shaped aluminium lamellas mounted onto panels. The nature of these panels prevents detrimental snow accumulation on the overhang, reducing the total load acting on the large overhangs.

We used parametric modelling to define the optimum shape and layout of the panels and reduced the number of bespoke assemblies by 87%. This helped to minimise wastage by using materials and production resources in a more sustainable way, whilst enabling much faster fabrication and assembly. Paul Roberts, project director at Buro Happold: “It has been a close collaboration with the architects and the Client right from the beginning of the project, starting with the very first hand-sketches that we worked on together. Seeing the result with this impressive structure that marks a significant milestone for ESS is truly amazing. We’re proud of our contribution to the world’s most powerful neutron source that will help address some of the most important societal challenges of our time: enabling scientific breakthroughs in research related to materials, energy, health and the environment. ESS is due to be in full operations by the end of 2027. Following the completion of the civil construction works, the facility will now continue to be prepared for research.

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 25

Project

TURKEY’S 1915ÇANAKKALE BRIDGE OPENS AHEAD OF SCHEDULE

The 1915Çanakkale Bridge was officially opened in a ceremony attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Friday 18 March 2022. Taking it’s place as the world’s longest mid-span and highest tower suspension bridge, the 1915Çanakkale Bridge was completed 18-months ahead of schedule, in part due to the innovative heavy lifting crane solution developed by Australian craneage experts, Marr Contracting.

Soon after the Turkish Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport General Directorate of Motorways appointed the Turkish-Korean joint venture partners – DL E&C–Limak–SK ecoplant–Yapi Merkezi (DLSY) – as the construction partners on the project in 2017, DLSY contacted Marr Contracting for a craneage solution to match how they wanted to construct the project.

global team of companies engaged to work on the project, Marr’s scope of works on the construction of the 318-metre high bridge towers included engineering the heavy lift crane solution involving its integration into the temporary and permanent works, the supply of two M2480D cranes (including installation, climbing, dismantle and maintenance), and crane operation.

One of multiple subcontractors from a

According to Marr Contracting Managing Director, Simon Marr, early engagement with the DLSY during the front-end engineering stage of the project was key to the project’s success and the constructor’s ability to align a crane solution with their construction methodology. “The construction schedule was critically important and DLSY wanted to reduce their construction time. They invited us in early to discuss their ideas about their planned construction methodology which was based on traditional construction thinking involving a greater number of lighter lifts. To build the bridge towers, they were going to lift panel after panel, weld them and go again, but we said ‘what if those panels were modularised,

26 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Project

the construction schedule because off-site assembly is faster, safer and more accurate, than welding multiple sections at height,” Marr said. Marr’s 18-month engagement on the project between 2019 and 2021, saw two world first engineering feats – the placement of the two M2480Ds in a single lift operation 1km offshore in the Canakkale Strait and the heaviest crane lift at height during the positioning of the upper cross beams on the bridge towers – as well as numerous other innovations to integrate the heavy lift tower crane engineering into the project and minimise critical path impact to the construction schedule.

joined together in pieces up to 160 tonnes, and we lift them in one piece?’,” Marr said.

The 1915Canakkale Bridge has become a masterpiece that seals our glorious history as a monument, in a way that befits the memory of the epic battle of Canakkale. Now, instead of a few hours, passing the Dardanelles Strait only takes six minutes. Marr’s innovative approach – using two of the world’s largest capacity heavy lift luffing tower cranes, (the 330-tonne capacity M2480D) – allowed for prefabricated, modularised panels weighing up to 160 tonnes to be manufactured off site, transported to site to be lifted in one piece.

“We are incredibly proud to have been part of this amazing project and the successes achieved for Marr and our client is a case study in how early engagement and true collaboration can drive a successful outcome on any large-scale construction project. We continue to use the same way of thinking in our engagement with clients to deliver similarly successful outcomes across a range of different sectors in Australia and around the world,” Marr said. Speaking at the opening, Turkish Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoğlu said: “Our country is one step closer to joining the world’s largest players in investment, production, export and employment. The 1915Canakkale Bridge has become a masterpiece that seals our glorious history as a monument, in a way that befits the memory of the epic battle of Canakkale. Now, instead of a few hours, passing the Dardanelles Strait only takes six minutes.”

About the 1915Çanakkale Bridge At a total bridge length of 4,608 metres, a central span of 2,023 metres and a total bridge tower height of 318 metres, the 1915Çanakkale Bridge is the longest mid-span and highest tower suspension bridge in the world. The Bridge connects the village of Sütlüce, 10km south of the town of Gelibolu (Gallipoli) on the European side, with Lapseki on the Asian side. The six-minute journey across the Bridge is an alternative to the previous 1.5 hour ferry journey across the Çanakkale Strait (Dardenelles). It will also provide a new heavy transit alternative to the Istanbul Strait passage, meaning faster and more costeffective freight transport, as well as strengthened economic, political, tourism and social bonds for the local community. The Turkish Government named the bridge in honour and remembrance of the Çanakkale Battle during World War I that took place between Turkish and Allied forces.

“This meant DLSY only had to do around one-eighth of the lifts planned and the sheer lifting capacity of our M2480D cranes allowed for fewer, heavier crane lifts. This helped to de-risk the project and protect

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 27

“Our latest product launch brings an all-in-one solution to the market that makes it easy for workers to stay safe on any site. “We know there’s a demand here, our latest research found that 89% of construction workers’ lives would be made easier if they were able to purchase all their safety equipment in one place. It also unveiled that just under half of construction workers reported ‘cost’ and a ‘lack of stock’ as the main barriers when sourcing correct safety workwear. We’re thrilled to be launching the solution to these problems.” Their nationally representative survey was carried out with construction workers of all seniority levels and various demographic breakdowns across the UK. Key findings include:

•

THE UK’S FIRST ALL-INONE SOLUTION TO SAFETY WORKWEAR HAS ARRIVED WASP Site Safety launch the Site Safety Box, in conjunction with their nationally representative research into safety in the construction industry. Research finds 92% of construction workers name safety as their most important consideration in 2022. It should be no surprise to learn that, according to WASP Site Safety’s research, construction workers are prioritising safety over all other factors in 2022, including time and money. With the dark cloud of the pandemic still hanging over the industry, HSE have now updated their regulations on safety workwear, extending the responsibility of employers to provide PPE to all workers on site, including those with a ‘casual employment relationship’.

This tense environment around safety calls for solutions that are simple, easy and convenient. That’s where the Site Safety Box comes in. Within one box, you get six of the essential items of safety workwear needed on a site:

• • • • • •

2x Hi-Vis Vests

•

In the wake of the pandemic, 62% of business owners and senior managers in the construction industry have invested further into health and safety measures for their business, with 28% looking to invest further in 2022. Young people are even more safety conscious, with 93% of 16-24 year olds considering safety as an important factor when working in construction, more so than cost and turnaround time. 91% of 16-24 year olds find it difficult to source safety workwear, citing obstacles such as lack of stock (51%), long delivery times (38%) and expense (36%). Only 9% of 16-24 year olds surveyed did not find it difficult.

1x Safety Helmet 1x Safety Glasses 1x Cut Level D Safety Gloves 1x Ear Defenders 1x Ear Plugs

Meaning you, or your staff, can be siteready in one purchase. In a hurry? They offer next working day delivery for FREE on all their boxes, so you will never be left high and dry without the right gear. WASP Site Safety was founded in 2019 with a mission to revolutionise the construction industry by taking the sting out of site safety. Their product doesn’t just look good on paper, it’s backed up by their research. Tom Skerritt, CoFounder of WASP Site Safety, said: “WASP Site Safety was born based on a wealth of concerning industry insights - almost half of UK tradespeople have been seriously injured at work, a figure that’s frankly too high and needs to be dealt with.

28 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

The Site Safety Box starts at £29.95, including next working day delivery. Their workwear is provided by trusted UK suppliers and all their packaging is 100% recyclable. Each box also includes a Golden Envelope with exclusive offers and discounts from traderelated brands. You can order now from www.waspsitesafety.com, and if you’re interested in wholesale enquiries, you can email info@waspsitesafety.com or call 01273 054280.

BORDER GROUP: THE BARRIER SPECIALISTS The UK’s leading supplier of temporary road and pedestrian safety products for sale or hire nationwide

Rhino Crash Tested Barriers

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COMPETITIVE HIRE RATES SHORT- TO LONG-TERM HIRE AVAILABLE Contact our Sales Team on 01228 675 764 or sales@bordergroupltd.com or view our full range at

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GO SOLAR TO BEAT RISING FUEL COSTS

Welfare fleet owners are really starting to feel the impact of the recent changes in fuel tax legislation. With traditional ‘red’ diesel banned for use in welfare, HVO prices incurring a hefty tax hike and white diesel prices rocketing ever higher due to global unrest, welfare users need to find an alternative fast. Some manufacturers offer hydrogenpowered welfare. But at the current time, hydrogen is also prohibitively expensive and unfortunately most of the hydrogen available in the UK is ‘dirty’ hydrogen so even though it produces zero emissions at point of use, the environmental impact remains very high. This leaves solar energy as the only truly viable and cost-effective alternative. UK manufacturer Boss Cabins recently launched its new Deep Green 2030 range of welfare products, designed to operate almost entirely from solar energy and produce virtually zero emissions. Deep Green cabins incorporate the latest solar panel technology, lithium ion batteries and a smart energy monitoring system which shows at all times exactly how much energy the cabins are generating and using and from what source.

Data gathered from the fleet of solarpowered Deep Green cabins currently out in the field has shown their solar production capacity to be exceeding even the manufacturer’s own expectations. Boss Cabins Managing Director James Kearsey states: “These results we are seeing are extremely encouraging. We have Deep Green welfare cabins deployed in different locations all around the UK, and in March and April, the data showed that these units were creating virtually 100% of their energy requirements solely from the bank of solar panels mounted on their roof. “As well as saving users a fortune in fuel costs, this means the Deep Green cabins are not creating any harmful emissions. Solar energy use = zero emissions.” In addition, the Deep Green units include a raft of other environmental benefits including a unique and innovative system for harvesting rainwater and recycling grey water which cuts the need for water refills and waste pumpouts significantly. Fewer service visits means lower service costs and less environmental impact from service vehicles visiting site. Deep Green cabins are also sustainably constructed and their end-of-life impact has been considered. They are built in

stainless steel with a 25 year anti-corrosion warranty and are over 97% recyclable when they come to the end of their useful life. Understandably, the Deep Green range is being picked up on by the major construction and utilities companies who are keen to hit their Net Zero and Carbon Neutral targets as well as improve their ESG scores, with water companies particularly keen on the rain harvesting and recycling element. James Kearsey continues: “We are getting a fantastic response to these cabins from the major players in the construction industry. They can recognise how our Deep Green 2030 range gives the welfare industry a product that truly reduces environmental impact while not sacrificing any of the performance you need or expect from a high-spec welfare cabin.” The first models in the Deep Green range include a 24ft Canteen/Office and a 16ft Canteen, both with twin toilets. Several more designs are in the pipeline with a 12ft model being released soon and several sizes of static as well as a range of portable toilets. To book a Deep Green demo or for more info, visit the website bit.ly/DeepGreenSolarWelfare

30 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

IS FUEL COSTING YOU A FORTUNE? WHY NOT USE THE SUN’S ENERGY TO POWER YOUR WELFARE FLEET? Our Deep Green welfare cabins run for most of the year entirely from solar power. High-performance welfare solutions. Vastly reduced financial and environmental running costs.

bosscabins.co.uk 01778 300475

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FIREX INTERNATIONAL 2022 RETURNS TO EXCEL LONDON THIS MAY! Registration for FIREX International 2022, taking place on 17-19 May 2022 at ExCeL London, is officially opened. Secure your place today!

finalists will get the chance to show off their skills in front of thousands of peers and professionals from the security and fire sectors.

After almost three years apart, FIREX International returns in-person to London in May for Europe’s largest gathering of fire safety professionals.

IFSEC & FIREX Training, a live installer training, comes for the first time to IFSEC & FIREX to support efforts to raise competency and close the skills gap in security and fire. Installers, integrators and engineers will be able to attend accredited and in-depth training sessions from a mix of training providers and expert vendors on topics such as video surveillance, access control, fire alarm systems and plenty more.

Get your FREE ticket >>> As always, the event will offer an immersive experience for the entire fire safety buying chain – and it’s FREE to attend! Don’t miss the opportunity to reconnect with the entire fire safety community, share expertise and get up to speed on the latest legislation. What’s going on in 2022? Expertise & Guidance Theatre will bring to visitors the chance to hear from an exceptional line-up of speakers presenting on and debating critical topics in the fire safety sector. Tuesday will be all about building safety. We hear from the new Building Safety Regulator’s office how the industry can embrace systemic culture change to safety and get to grips with how the digitisation of fire safety can support achieving the golden thread of information principles. On Wednesday, we’ll be exploring the latest in fire safety innovation and technology with an expert panel debating the benefits and challenges of embracing IoT.

Rounding it all on Thursday will be a deep dive into the latest legislative updates and how they affect fire safety professionals, changes to competency standards and a look ahead at what’s next for the fire industry with a panel of leading specialists.

Source the latest fire safety solutions by accessing hundreds of fire safety suppliers, from the likes of Kentec, Hochiki Europe (UK), Aico, Gerda Security Products, Baldwin Boxall, Fireco, Coopers Fire, and more! The Fire Protection Association’s (FPA) InfoZone seminar theatre returns with an agenda covering a wide range of crucial talking points in the fire safety industry for attendees. Sessions will run from 10:0017:00 on Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th May, and from 10:00-16:00 on Thursday 19th May, taking place on the FPA stand F2050. Engineers of Tomorrow competition takes place at IFSEC & FIREX this year. Winners of regional heats compete in a live installation challenge at the show. The competition involves two separate areas – one for electronic security systems and the other for fire systems. Apprentice

Why attend FIREX International? Reconnect with the fire safety community and meet leading suppliers throughout the three days, alongside key industry associations such as the Fire Industry Association (FIA), Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), Fire Protection Association (FPA), and more! Enjoy a plethora of networking opportunities to reconnect with the industry, ranging from breakfasts and drink receptions to closeddoor roundtable discussions. Stay on top of the legislation and guidance by joining the Expertise and Guidance Theatre and the FPA’s InfoZone seminars to keep on top of the latest government legislation, industry standards and best practice guidance. Source the latest fire safety solutions by accessing hundreds of fire safety suppliers, from the likes of Kentec, Hochiki Europe (UK), Aico, Gerda Security Products, Baldwin Boxall, Fireco, Coopers Fire, and more! Plus, get access to hundreds more exhibitors across security, smart buildings, facilities management and health and safety. And, for 2022, FIREX has taken the decision to fully commit to supporting and promoting third-party approvals, independent accreditation and competency for construction products and services. This will mean all exhibiting companies with relevant fire protection or prevention systems and materials will need to hold – or be in the process of acquiring – recognised third-party approval on their products. Learn more about the safe measures FIREX International is putting in place to reunite the security community safely.

32 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

MAKING LIFE SAFETY A RIGHT, NOT A PRIVILEGE

LEARN

RECONNECT

Join our Expertise and Guidance Conference and Seminars session designed to help fire safety professionals stay on top of government legislation, industry standards and best practice.

Meet leading suppliers throughout the three days alongside key fire safety associations, including FIA, ASFP, FPA and more. Enjoy several networking opportunities, from breakfast and drink receptions to closed-door roundtable discussions.

SOURCE

DISCOVER

Access hundreds of fire safety suppliers from C-Tec, Kentec, Hochiki, SimPro, Firemate, Uptick, Ramtech Electronics, Telefire, SEIKAKU, Nittan, Vimpex, Teletek , Draeger, Reacton Fire Suppression and more, all in one place.

Explore some of the newest fire safety technologies available and examine recognised thirdparty approved fire safety products and services, many of which are on display for the first time since the pandemic.

5 SHOWS. 1 FREE TICKET.

THE FIRE GLASS PROMISE. WORKING WITH YOU FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION AND BEYOND. Expectations of any supplier are much higher than they used to be, due to more choice within the market place. Cost and service play a big part in this and although you want the best price available, without good company service to back this up, is it really worth it? With over ten years in business, Fire Glass UK has built up an enviable reputation to become the nation’s leading supplier of fire-rated and specialist safety glass. Having an expert installation team on-hand to make sure any projects glazed to Firas standards. Supplying fire-rated, acoustic, laminated and toughened glass and offering a specialist cut-size service for glass partitions, partnering industry experts to deliver integral blinds in IGUs and supply manifestations for a complete finish.

FIRE GLASS UK ARE DEDICATED TO NOT ONLY SUPPLYING FIRE RATED AND OTHER SPECIALIST GLASS BUT, TO ALSO GIVE THE CUSTOMER AN OUTSTANDING EXPERIENCE – EVEN WHEN THE JOB HAS BEEN COMPLETE. suit your project needs from five well-stocked branches nationwide – guaranteed delivery on time and within budget. DEDICATED TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Fire Glass UK strive towards excellence by building their working principles around SQS The Fire Glass Promise; Safety, Quality and Service and believe this is the formula to building trusted working relationships. Fire Glass UK care about getting it right – every time.

With lots of industry confusion and regulation changes, Fire Glass UK believe their technical support is an essential asset to their customers to ensure safety is met at all times. Working together to interpret project specifications and find the right product for the job, all at the best price. Fire Glass UK’s expert team knows all there is to know about fire-rated glass and if you need support, you can email:

FAST DELIVERY NATIONWIDE

technical@fireglassuk.com

Knowing the importance of meeting project deadlines and limiting unwanted downtime is critical to success. Fire Glass have stillages to

TRUST THE EXPERTS

THE FIRE GLASS PROMISE

Investing in the right supplier with the same vision on safety, quality,

and service can ensure a project is completed to the best possible standards. If using a fire-resistant glass, it must only be used as part of a previously approved glazing system. There is no second chance with safety. Make sure you get it the right first time. TRUST THE EXPERTS.

0121 667 9089 info@fireglassuk.com www.fireglassuk.com

THE UK’S LEADING SUPPLIER S OF FIRE RATED AND SPECIALIST GLASS AND GLAZING

S LAS G E FIR EST W ING N OPE AY M

FIRE RATED ACOUSTIC LAMINATED TOUGHENED GLASS

THE SAFER CHOICE

FIR E GLA GLAS SS S S & S PEC A FUL IAL FETY L Y I STS C &A CCR ERTIF I E E D DIT FIR ED A INS S CER TAL T LAT IFIED EXP ION S HEL ERT TE CH P& N AD WE VIC ICAL LL S E FAC T ILIT OCKE D IES NATIONWIDE DISTRIBUTION FROM WELL-STOCKED LOCAL BRANCHES

MIDLANDS NORTH SOUTH EAST WEST NEW SCOTLAND INSTALLATION 0121 667 9089 0161 532 8371 01206 805 922 01773 712 920 01174 528 800 0131 526 4141 0121 667 9089

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TRUST THE EXPERTS

Safety, Security and Fire Prevention example, as you hope you won’t ever have to use them. Interestingly, airbags were developed in the early 1950s and while they are a feature of all modern cars, this safety solution is still not a legal requirement – but a car could not receive a suitable safety rating without one.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF A WELL-PROTECTED PROPERTY? By Iain Cox, Chair of the Business Sprinkler Alliance The past 25 years have seen the construction of a huge number of new buildings. Yet, questions remain regarding fire safety features and strategies within many of these properties. One has to question why fire safety has not been held in the same regard as a buildings design, aesthetics or ‘green’ credentials. The optimistic belief that a fire “will not happen to me” could explain why businesses are not always considering the real impact of fire and its consequences. They underestimate the direct financial impact on both the property and the business, and the time it takes to recover from a fire. This all can have an impact on business value over time. A business property that is well-protected in terms of fire protection and safety will have a far greater intrinsic value, yet the ‘market’ does not seem to value this. When you look at the value of a property, it’s important to think about performance over time. We use metrics, data and evaluations to do this. However how does this include considering risk and events that may happen, like fire. Compare this to an EPC rating, which is seen as a key indicator of energy efficiency of a building and energy costs. This information has to be provided when a property is sold. The lack of a rating would be questioned and the value of the property is impacted if the information isn’t provided.

Fundamentally we need to be asking how the building delivers fire safety and is protected against such events, and where is the information to support this? This should become a valuable piece of information for any owner and simillarly have a negative impact on the value if not provided across all buildings. For example, if one office block has sprinklers, fire alarms, documented maintenance, plans etc and another doesn’t have sprinklers then the sprinklerprotected building is clearly worth more. If nothing else it has more equipment. The value of that equipment can be seen functionally but it is also an investment in terms of fire safety and protection of the property over time.

A sprinkler investment means that if anything goes wrong, then you’re likely to have more of that asset left afterwards. A well-protected property therefore has an intrinsic value. This also raises the question as to the value of the property that has been sprinklerprotected over time. Some would argue that value only comes to pass when you stop something bad happening. The analogy to airbags would be a good

The same is not always true for fire safety, there are no fire safety ratings of buildings. If fire safety information is not available it does not always lead to questions. It should do and this is perhaps a more prominent item for certain buildings today. There are moves afoot for selected buildings to have such information through discussions of items like a Golden Thread. However this needs to spread to a wider set of buildings.

36 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Today, automatic fire sprinklers are not widely used in the UK partly because the regulatory guidance rarely prescribes their use and partly because even when prescribed they are often ‘value engineered’ out. Yet automatic fire sprinklers prevent large fires because they activate automatically over a fire, controlling or even extinguishing the blaze before the Fire and Rescue Service arrives. They therefore protect the lives of those in the building and the firefighters who attend an incident – but they also prevent significant damage or destruction of a building by fire. The misconception surrounding the cost of sprinkler systems can be dispelled by looking at the true costs of a building over its lifespan. Some would say that if a fire does not happen the cost of the sprinkler system has been wasted. However, thinking about airbags, we do not make the same arguments if they are not used during the ownership of a car. Why, for example, deliver a warehouse, factory or school as cheaply as possible but leave out fire safety measures; only to find five years later it is lost completely due to a fire event, resulting in greater costs? This goes back to a fundamental issue, that owners are perhaps not fully considering the potential for a fire during the life of a building. It is often manifested in not valuing what they own in terms of the potential to replace property and thinking that they are going to recover from a fire a lot quicker than they do. We need to place risk into context and understand the impact, so that what is at stake is understood and planned for appropriately. Clear outcomes in the face of fire can then be defined. An inescapable item is that the inclusion of a sprinkler system can prevent major financial and equipment losses, containing what could be a potential major disaster and ensuring it is only a minor inconvenience. Fire is indiscriminate and inexplicable, but that doesn’t mean actions can’t be taken to prevent and control it when it occurs. As warehouses and similar industrial buildings are likely to proliferate in the coming years, now is the time to think of how, and why, we should protect these valuable assets which may not be glamorous, but nonetheless are vital as part of the UK’s business infrastructure. Protecting the value of such properties and those who work within them. For more information about the BSA visit the www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org

SNICKERS WORKWEAR LITEWORK TROUSERS – FOR COOL COMFORT THIS SUMMER Long-lasting, innovative new fabrics for comfort, sustainability and longevity. While Fabric, Functionality and Fit are hallmarks of Snickers Workwear, it’s the innovation and sustainable fabric technology in the design of the new LITEWork Work Trousers that really set them apart from other brands. They’re great for working hard in the warmer months. Delivering superior flexibility and cooling comfort, these stretchable, lightweight work trousers provide efficient moisture transport, ventilation and sun protection. They also come with CORDURA® reinforcements for extra durability and they feature a 4-way stretch fabrics, the patented Snickers Workwear KneeGuard® system and detatchable holster pockets if you need them. As well as being street-smart they’re packed with functionality and are specially designed for the fast-paced professional who’s always on the go and delivering top class work on site. For more information on Snickers Workwear’s LITEWork range and it’s sustainability philosophy you can call the Helpline on 01484 854788; check out www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email sales@hultaforsgroup.co.uk

Here at Gaia, we’re a company with over 30 years’ experience offering total underfloor heating systems in residential and commercial properties across the UK and Ireland. We specialise in the design, supply and

installation of both wet and electric systems as well as frost protection, ice and snow melting. Offering a wide range of underfloor heating solutions, our teams can advise and design the most suitable system for your project,

whether it’s a new build or refurbishment project; providing a professional service from initial

project stage through to project completion. We’ve built up lasting relationships with

customers who we continue to serve and

celebrate in the success of the projects we deliver for them.

01359 242 400

info@gaia.co.uk www.gaia.co.uk

Trust in our warmth

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 37

Safety, Security and Fire Prevention

FIRE SAFETY BUILT INTO THE DNA OF NEW AFFORDABLE HOMES DEVELOPMENT IN HOVE There’s no doubting the very urgent need to build, and fast. A recent Lords report has revealed that in 2020/21 a mere 194,000 homes were built, which is way off the government’s target of 300,000 homes per year. Amid this pressing situation, housebuilders across the country are swamped with projects, many of them working as quickly as possible as they race to get housing completed and new projects started. A residential development at School Road, Hove, East Sussex, is set to deliver 104 affordable homes. The development sits in the former Westerman Industrial Works complex, which dates back to the 1950s.

As such, SMARTPLY MAX FR B, powered by Zeroignition, was able to provide and install specialist, structural panels with reliable reaction to fire properties to provide enhanced fire protection throughout these residential and retail dwellings. The project was to supply and erect timber frames as part of the design and construction of 104 residential dwellings and three commercial units. Around 3,500 sheets of SMARTPLY MAX FR B were used in the project, covering over 8,900m2.

The extensive project includes 21 town houses, and seven residential blocks. Block A features nine flats in a four to five storey structure, while blocks B, C and D feature 47 flats across four storeys. Blocks E, F and G consists of 17 flats and retail units spanning across three and four storeys. This build has benefitted from a Homes England grant, meaning that 60 homes will be made affordable to rent. The remaining 44 homes will be available for shared ownership. Alongside the 104 dwellings, office spaces for small and mediumsized businesses will be built and made available to rent.

Crucially, the product is also suitable for EC5 Design and Cat 1 racking, which is just what we needed.

Construction in progress

How does it work?

Fire safety has been an essential consideration throughout this project.

SMARTPLY MAX FR B is a structural, moisture resistant OSB/3 panel. It can be used for a broad range of different applications and unlike standard, structural OSB/3 panels, SMARTPLY MAX FR B is impregnated during the manufacturing process with non-toxic Zeroignition Solution which goes into the cellular structure of the engineered wood cfibre. This provides outstanding and reliable reaction to fire properties throughout the thickness of the panel, and unlike some post-treated panels, the same level of protection remains in the section of wood no matter how many times it is cut.

Emma Barry, Project Co-ordinator at Gibbs Timber Frame states: “We chose SMARTPLY MAX FR B panels for the Cat B buildings and for the decking in Cat C buildings because of its flame retardant properties.

38 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

This form of nano scale fire protection in the material, delivers full EN300 OSB/3 structural properties, proven in both short and long-term strength and environmental testing.

Tragedies of the past simply cannot be repeated and it is essential that housebuilders, like PMC Construction, have a vested interest and are wholeheartedly committed to the safety of the end user. We have seen the devastation and destruction that arises if corners are cut and the bottom line is favoured over the health and wellbeing of residents. Ian King, COO at Zeroignition says: “We have been working with MEDITE SMARTPLY over a number of years to create the Euroclass B Structural OSB product. Our mission here at Zeroignition is, and always has been, to protect property and save lives. Tragedies of the past simply cannot be repeated and it is essential that housebuilders, like PMC Construction, have a vested interest and are wholeheartedly committed to the safety of the end user. We have seen the devastation and destruction that arises if corners are cut and the bottom line is favoured over the health and wellbeing of residents. “After years of research, development and rigorous testing, it makes us very proud to see our fire solutions being used extensively, as part of a tried and tested system, to protect residential projects like this. Our technology is being used here for its intended purpose, offering a blanket of protection to those who use these buildings, ensuring they remain safe as houses.”

Save over 50%

on your fire extinguisher and maintenance costs

P50 Service-Free Fire Extinguishers No extinguisher engineer visits required for 10 years Kitemarked to BS EN3 and CE marked Supplied with a 10 year manufacturer’s warranty No refill required after 5 years

The P50 is simply visually inspected by your own staff once a year. We even show your staff how to complete this simple check. Freephone: 0800 612 7938 www.safelincs.co.uk support@safelincs.co.uk Ref: CUKM21

Fire & Safety Solutions

Roofing and Cladding Specification is key to a flat roof cricket performing the task it was designed for. Prior to installation there are two important issues to consider. Firstly, is the cricket’s material composition compatible with the roof’s waterproofing system? Furthermore, is there enough fall on the existing roof? Gradient’s technical team can provide the answer to both questions. As part of our bespoke design and manufacture service, our surveyors are able to undertake site visits to measure a roof’s existing falls and decide whether a cricket system or a more robust full tapered scheme is required.

WHY IS A FLAT ROOF CRICKET RECOMMENDED FOR CHIMNEYS AND FLAT ROOFS? By James Wilkinson, Design Team Manager at Gradient Roofing crickets are an effective compromise to a full tapered scheme and ensuring roofs remain pond-free. But how and where are they best installed? What are flat roof crickets and where to place them? A roofing cricket is a V-shaped tapered accessory which is installed at details such as rooflights, chimneys, between outlets and corners where water has a predilection to collect and cause ponding.

A flat roof cricket helps disperse water which might otherwise weigh heavy on a roof and cause damage overtime. Stagnant water carries a particular risk during winter, as plunging temperatures could cause it to freeze and pose more of an immediate threat to a roof’s surface and the underlying structure. Ponding water also provides ideal conditions for pests and bugs to breed, particularly mosquitoes. A cost and time-effective solution, roofing crickets are typically installed on flat roof projects where the existing deck is laid-to-falls. They are seen as an effective compromise when a tapered roof or gutter system is not deemed viable. Crickets are available in quarter, half and full sizes. Full crickets are diamond-shaped and are used to direct water to outlets on a roof that slopes in two directions. Half crickets are ideal for directing waterflow around obstructive details such as rooflights, whilst the quarter option is often used as a corner piece to eliminate ponding issues. Roof crickets can ensure effective roof drainage Typically PIR-based, roofing crickets can be manufactured to suit a wide range of applications such as bonded, torch-on and built-up felt systems etc. In terms of their size, this depends on the roof’s existing fall. Gradient can stagger the depth of a cricket in order to obtain the best fall along the angle. Failure to achieve this could result in rainwater collecting at the cricket face rather than be redirected.

40 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Specification is key to a flat roof cricket performing the task it was designed for. Prior to installation there are two important issues to consider. Firstly, is the cricket’s material composition compatible with the roof’s waterproofing system? Furthermore, is there enough fall on the existing roof? With regards to installation, roofing crickets are able to be adhered straightto-deck or to the existing PIR system. If the roofing crickets are being retrofit to an existing roof, care should be taken to prime the existing waterproofing layer before installing the cricket system. A suitable adhesive should be used to bond a cricket to the substrate, which should be given space to breathe to prevent damp formation. A secondary application they might be but if designed and installed correctly, roofing crickets can effectively extend a roof’s lifespan. They are a cost-effective solution to a common roofing problem.

Roofing and Cladding

MOY CONTINUES TO RISE AND RAISE THE ROOF MOY roofing waterproofing system specialists are becoming one of the leading roof system and service providers across the UK. Specialising in a service led business, that supports and advises from design and specification stage to completion MOY has recently launched the next stage in roofing design; smart technology. A new dynamic solution to their offerings with a 24/7 live monitoring of your roofing performance. This intelligent roof solution powered by AquaTrace and combined with a MOY

Integrates seemlessly into MOY’s warm rooﬁng systems

GREEN ROOF

LIQUID

Alongside this, MOY has continued to expand their team of technical advisors and sales representatives. With offices, warehousing and training facilities in London, Glasgow and Dublin it has been noted that MOY continued a smooth supply of materials throughout the challenging past number of months. National Sales Manager Scott Hodgetts stated:

Over the past 2 years, suppliers have experienced challenges in the supply of waterproofing products and accessories. Due to expert forecasting alongside our approved contractors and the volume of stock MOY hold across the UK and Ireland, we were largely unaffected by these market conditions and were able to react to challenges swiftly and promptly. We’re very thankful of that and grateful to be able to deliver on our side of the agreement.

INTELLIGENT ROOFING SMART MONITORING

SINGLE PLY

selected waterproofing system, is the new MOY Intelligent Roofing Smart Monitoring solution which detects any break in roof performance and feeds back to you in real time via its smart app to your laptop or mobile. Now MOY are able to dramatically reduce the risk and commercial implications from water ingress into a building.

BITUMEN

MOY would be delighted to assist with any technical or commercial challenges you may have and show you how first-class service doesn’t need to come at an inflated cost. Call - 01245 707 449 or find your local Moy representative on moymaterials.com/MOYteamUK

ROOFING PROFESSIONALS URGED TO UP THE ANTE FOLLOWING SPRING ‘COLD SNAP’ After snow hit parts of the UK last week, a building materials expert is appealing to roofing professionals to up the ante on roofing components to prevent condensation.

which can lower the risk significantly more than non-breathable options. By creating an airtight seal on the membrane, complementary tape can also reduce energy loss through the roof.”

As homeowners seek to heat their home at a time of spiralling energy costs, Klober is urging contractors to select roofing products that are designed with condensation mitigation in mind. This because the risk of condensation is increased when the difference in air temperature on the inside and outside of a building are greater. Therefore, roofing materials should be selected to help reduce this risk to prevent damp, mould growth and associated health risks to homeowners.

Condensation season falls between October and April but risk of condensation is no longer restricted to this period due to changes in weather patterns. To aid roofers during this period, Klober continuously invests in its R&D. It recently extended its Permo Air range to include Permo Air with tape, which makes it easier to ensure compliance with BS 5534 in all UK wind zones.

Nick King, Portfolio Manager explains: “While there are many variables that contribute to condensation, roofing contractors should play their part in mitigating this issue. “One way to do so is to opt for a breathable roofing membrane with self-adhesive tape alongside a ventilated dry ridge system,

Extreme temperatures can also compromise traditional sand and cement mortar methods to fix ridge and hip tiles. In support of contractors, Klober has added a 10m Dry Ridge Kit for more coverage on clay and concrete applications. Preferred by many contractors, 10m kits are ideal for installing on the ridgeline between semidetached houses. Nick continues: “Temperature changes compromise tiles secured using traditional methods, such as sand and cement mortar, as they may cause the mortar to crack and become loose over time. Plus, while mortar-fixed roof accessories require regular maintenance, dry fix is maintenance free as there is no need to replace cracking mortar,” Nick explains. “Therefore, there are numerous benefits to choosing dry ridge products, especially during condensation season.” For more information about Klober’s membranes and other roofing components, please visit www.klober.co.uk

xx Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 41

Unusual balcony design - Image courtesy of Squire & Partners

Balconies under construction

no other UK product for concrete-to-steel applications satisfies the necessary loadbearing requirements, or meets the current and future thermal performance required by building standards (Part L).

SEMICIRCULAR BALCONY DETAILING REQUIRED SCHÖCK EXPERTISE The Triptych Bankside development at 185 Park Street, in Southwark, is well under way. When complete, this three tower, mixed-use development adjacent to the Tate Modern and the Globe Theatre, will provide creative workspace in a ten-storey building sitting alongside two residential blocks. These are fifteen and nineteen storeys respectively, offering 170 new luxury homes. The striking design by architects Squire & Partners features unusual semicircular balconies throughout to maximise amenity space and sweeping panoramic views. The balcony specification is demanding though and the adaptable Schöck Isokorb T type SK is incorporated to meet the various challenges.

The T type SK is a complete system structural thermal break for concrete-to-steel connectivity. A complete system thermal break The special demands of the Triptych Bankside semicircular balcony profiling required bespoke Isokorb T type SK units designed with specific postional load capacities, using built-in steel reinforcement. The T type SK is a complete system structural thermal break for concrete-to-steel connectivity. At present, Design for one of the balcony types

The entire project is built very much with sustainability in mind and minimising any risk of thermal bridging at the balcony detailing is critical for a number of reasons. Any local heat loss will result in more energy being required to maintain the internal temperature of the building. Also, low internal surface temperatures in the area of any thermal bridge can cause condensation and this in turn is likely to result in structural integrity problems. Mould growth too is a possible risk, which in a residential situation can cause asthma and allergies. A dependable and fully compliant product range The Schöck Isokorb range of structural thermal break solutions is the largest in Europe and in the UK helps projects meet full compliance with the necessary Building Regulations (and the impending Future Homes Standard criteria where relevant). In addition to the Isokorb type used on this project, there are also solutions for concrete-to-concrete, steel-to-steel, renovation projects – and even a maintenance free alternative to wrapped parapets. All products have the security of independent BBA Certification, which provides NHBC approval. The temperature factor requirement (fRSI) used to indicate condensation risk, which must be equal to, or greater than 0.75 for residential buildings, is also easily met by incorporating the Isokorb.

Contact Schöck on 01865 290 890; or visit the website at www.schoeck.com for full details of the Isokorb range

42 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

EV PEDESTAL INSTALLATION MADE SIMPLE Installing Electrical charging points especially commercial ones requires careful consideration, this process can delay specifications and construction drawing information.

• • • • • •

What pedestal are you going to use? How big does the plinth need to be? What depth does the plinth need to be? How big does the ducting need to be? Where does it need to come out? Do you need to embed fixings?

EV Blocks solves this problem, with our pre-cast foundations you can guarantee a uniform finish every time. Not only that, but you can be sure your EV charger will fit on the base, not only today but in the future too, with our universal adaptor plate. EV Blocks are attending Fully Charged Live at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre 29 April – 1 May 2022 and can be found at - Stands E4, F10, F12 & R44 For more information visit - https://fullycharged.live/

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xx Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 43

“SINGING FROM THE SAME HYMN SHEET”: WHY ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IS VITAL TO IMPROVING ANY BUSINESS Mark Worrall, CEO of business improvement specialists BBI Services, discusses why organisational development is key to delivering a business’ strategic vision. Construction is one of the biggest sectors contributing to the UK economy. With 2.2 million people working within the sector and a predicted total revenue of £93.4 billion this year alone, it is vital for driving economic growth and employment nationwide.

Translating the business strategy into a set of clear principles and actionable plans, which explain how this impacts each individual, is an incredibly effective way to drive change throughout the organisation. The ultimate goal is making sure everyone, at any level, understands the company’s objectives, future ambitions and how their role adds value and feeds into the wider strategy.

comes in, alongside a good dose of process optimisation. A key element is establishing a performance-led business operating system across the whole company to deliver and drive value to customers.

People are at the heart of any organisational change. Creating a safe environment where every team member feels comfortable with the uncomfortable and is able to challenge the norm and existing status quo is essential.

Over the last two years, the industry has been put under unprecedented strain, and it looks like there’s no sign of this easing. As companies start to overcome the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic, we are now faced with a raft of other issues, not least tackling the government’s net zero targets and dealing with continuing supply chain disruption.

Creating the conditions for success is just as important as giving direction. Therefore, it is key to make sure the team feel they have made a significant contribution to defining what the organisation’s goals are, linking this to their area of responsibility and how they can achieve this. It’s also vital to outline what help they require to successfully deliver and exceed expectations.

Organisational development is key to aligning a company’s strategy, goals and core purpose to ensure everyone is singing off the same hymn sheet - and then enhancing the way they operate.

Remember, initiating change to achieve business success doesn’t happen overnight. It needs an orchestrated and systematic approach over a sustained period.

Key performance indicators across the organisation must feed into the wider business strategy, and regular performance reviews should take place to ensure projects and people stay on track. This means establishing routines each day, week and month.

As I said above, people are key to ensuring things run more smoothly and efficiently so the organisation can successfully achieve its ambitions.

All reviews must be aligned with the appropriate performance dialogue and team dynamics to challenge, improve and celebrate performance.

To drive excellence within an organisation, every part of the workforce must be engaged and shown how doing things differently will benefit them. Leaders must play the fundamental role of making this happen.

Improvement plans also need to have clear milestones and targets, where responsibilities are aligned and defined to achieve right first time, every time.

Putting performance in the spotlight

One of the most difficult parts of being a leader is driving change in a way that ensures core values successfully filter down through each level of the business.

At BBI Services, we have worked with a number of key players over the years in the built environment to harness the power of people, processes and performance, and align their organisations while making their operations as efficient as possible. Here’s how. Clearly communicating your strategy and engaging everyone It can be difficult to understand the best way to implement organisational development within your business, particularly when it relies on disseminating information to hundreds of employees.

Streamlining every aspect of an organisation is imperative for delivering the business’ strategic vision - and this is where organisational development

Mark Worrall, CEO of business improvement specialists BBI Services

The role of leadership

Leadership development programmes are an essential way to equip senior leaders and executives with the skills to deliver a transformational shift in this new era of high-level change. At BBI Services, we have developed a new innovative leadership series designed to embed sustainable behaviour change across an organisation. By using a unique cohesive approach, we will work with leaders and senior executives to capitalise on their strengths and enhance their development areas, as well as inspire and share a strategic vision to create the conditions for success.

To find out more about how you can make a real difference to how your business and team operates visit: www.bbiservices.com

44 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Previously installed access covers required a crane to remove and replace (left). Fibrelite’s lightweight composite covers can be safely removed by two people, and were fitted directly into the existing frames (right)

FIBRELITE DESIGN AND ENGINEER RETROFIT REPLACEMENT FOR HEAVY CAST IRON RECESS ACCESS COVERS Fibrelite was contacted about this upgrade project and shortly thereafter was invited to conduct a site survey. This client desired a ‘best in class’ lightweight replacement composite trench covering solution for their heavy cast iron recess access covers, which would require no specialist machinery for operation. The retrofittable design and engineering solutions offered by Fibrelite meant that they would be an ideal candidate for manufacture and supply. Problem The existing heavy cast iron recess access covers were very heavy. This caused frequent operational difficulties for the customer which they considered manageable for some time. After a certain point, site managers realised the additional cost imposed by these heavy cast iron recess covers was no longer tenable. Difficulties with existing covers and requirements for replacement: • In order to remove and replace, cast iron recess access covers necessitated specialist machinery (a crane) and training for operatives. • Existing key housings had corroded/ deformed adding to difficulty incurred during removal.

•

The replacement covers needed to be stepped 117 to 84mm deep in order to accommodate the existing frame as the customer did not wish to break out concrete if possible. Replacement covers needed to comply with D400 load rating whilst also benefitting from easy and safe manual handling for operatives.

Solution Shortly after the site survey, Fibrelite was able to provide a proposal that would meet the requirements mandated from the outset by the customer. The site survey and proposal were completed quickly, this was pleasing to the customer who was keen to quickly implement this upgrade. Fibrelite’s replacement solution was engineered and delivered to the required specifications. Key Fibrelite benefits and design challenges overcome: • Fibrelite’s lightweight trench access covers can be easily removed and replaced by any two people using the Fibrelite supplied and ergonomically designed FL7 lifting handles. • Quick and painless install, no need for concrete break out - Fibrelite delivered custom manufactured 84-117mm deep

•

stepped trench access covers which could be retrofitted directly into the existing frames with no modification required. The lightweight D400 load rated trench access covers delivered by Fibrelite ensure the customer would benefit from safe and easy manual handling due to the significantly reduced cover weight.

Results The easy access solution provided by Fibrelite ensures there is no need for any specialist personnel or machinery during maintenance or operation. Key Fibrelite benefits at a glance: Easy access to trench services using the ergonomically designed Fibrelite FL7 lifting handles. • Best strength to weight ratio available in the market today. • Successful application of bespoke design solution. • Fast installation. • Corrosion resistant. • Anti-skid/slip properties.

•

Click here for a retrofit replacement for your old concrete or cast iron covers

New custom Fibrelite covers engineered to fit directly into existing frames (left). Previously installed heavy cast iron recess access covers (right)

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 45

People On The Move and within budget. This is an excellent time to be joining Stepnell, with a huge amount of potential to enhance our position, which I hope to achieve.” Stepnell’s new sustainability manager, Sheona, brings seven years of environmental management experience to the role from across rail, construction and military sectors. Sheona will be instrumental to the implementation of sustainability solutions for projects across the entire business.

STEPNELL ANNOUNCES TWO NEW SENIOR APPOINTMENTS Complete construction partner, Stepnell, has announced two new strategic hires with the appointment of Lewis Archibald as framework director and Sheona Macmillan as sustainability manager. Both roles will support Stepnell’s framework performance growth and bolster its sustainable commitments to project delivery for customers. Lewis joins with nearly 30 years of industry experience, having spent his career working across a variety of preconstruction and estimating roles. At Stepnell, Lewis will continue to add to the complete construction partner’s 15-strong portfolio of both regional and national frameworks. Lewis will also be responsible for increasing the number of framework projects, so that Stepnell can continue to provide better service, earlier contractor involvement and more certainty of delivery.

Our work to deliver construction excellence - via an increasing number of framework projects is crucial to our service proposition and the success of the business. Lewis said: “I’m delighted to be taking on this role during a time of significant growth for Stepnell. Our work to deliver construction excellence - via an increasing number of framework projects - is crucial to our service proposition and the success of the business. I’m looking forward to accelerating delivery and efficiencies at project and programme level, as well as driving forward innovation for projects, helping to ensure they are on time

I am therefore very much looking forward to leading the business on its sustainability journey and developing and driving forward new initiatives. Sheona said: “Supporting Stepnell to achieve and increase our sustainability goals is vital for success. I am therefore very much looking forward to leading the business on its sustainability journey and developing and driving forward new initiatives. By prioritising early engagement with our customers, and through using the most effective sustainable resources and technologies, Stepnell will further minimise waste, reduce carbon emissions, prioritise renewable energy and encourage biodiversity across our sites.” Tom Wakeford, joint managing director at Stepnell, added: “We are pleased to welcome Lewis and Sheona, who will both play an integral part in the continued growth and success of Stepnell. Investing in new talent helps our teams to unlock new and exciting opportunities, while expanding and strengthening our service offering. As they both develop in their roles, we are certain that Lewis and Sheona will make a significant and positive impact to the business, and we look forward to supporting them to do this.”

PHILIP THOMAS JOINS FIS BOARD The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) is pleased to announce that Philip Thomas has been co-opted to its executive board. Philip is Business Development Manager at Smith Building Systems and has worked within the partitioning, aluminium extrusion and building products field for over 20 years. Philip’s current role as Business Development Manager for Smiths Building Systems affords him the opportunity to be involved in many aspect of the business including branding, web development, safety, technical specifications, product development,

improvement and design. This wideranging role will bring a vast amount of industry experience and knowledge to the FIS Board. A recently new FIS member, having joined in 2020, FIS Chief Executive Iain McIlwee said: “An inherent strength of FIS is the engagement we get from our membership and particularly the willingness of members to step up and support our team, providing leadership and expertise via the Board. “FIS only exists to try and help create the right conditions for the good companies to win, paramount to this is members scrutinising what we are doing is helping

46 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

and helping us to understand what more needs to be done. Philip brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm and are looking forward to working closely to continue to grow the FIS in every way.”

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Health & Safety

BUILDERS URGED TO STAY SAFE AROUND LIVE CABLES Builders are being urged to prioritise electrical safety after the trade was involved in the highest number of cable damage incidents during the past year. UK Power Networks which distributes electricity to 8.4 million homes and businesses across London, the South East and East of England, is issuing the warning after finding more than a fifth of all accidents with its networks involved builders. In 2021 builders were involved in 23% of incidents where members of the public came into contact with electricity cables, more than any other trade. The company has stressed the importance of pre-planning, by requesting cable plans in advance and avoiding working too closely to live services. One area of concern is private builders carrying out work such as small house builds or extension, laying driveways and excavation work. Workers could be at risk when carrying out building, construction and excavation work using diggers, lifting equipment, ladders, pneumatic drills and hand tools. Ros Forbes, a safety advisor at UK Power Networks, said: “Contact with electricity can result in serious burns, impact your ability to work or even result in a fatality. “Every year people are seriously injured after contact with electricity. Simple safety steps can save lives.

“Working as a builder near our networks, whether they be underground cables, overhead lines or electricity substations can place employers and employees at risk of serious injury if the risks are not properly considered. You can be at risk when using diggers, spades, hammer drills, lifting equipment, ladders and power tools so everybody needs to take the time to plan ahead. It is never worth risking your life to try and save a bit of time. “UK Power Networks is committed to safety and actively encourages anyone undertaking work close to our network to contact us in advance for advice. We regularly talk to professional and industry groups to remind them about safe working.” Brian Berry, chief executive at the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) said: “Building sites are dangerous environments for many reasons, especially if electrical cables are involved. Health and safety procedures are therefore paramount to the smooth running and safety of a project. “Builders need to ensure that they are up to date with the latest safety guidelines surrounding live cables and have this drilled into the teams working on site.” Cable plans can be obtained before starting any work via the UK Power Networks website www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk or www.linesearchbeforeyoudig.co.uk. Any emergency incident or damaged cable can be reported by dialing 105.

Key advice from the power company’s safety team is to plan ahead: Request advice on disconnecting power supplies, shrouding overhead lines and other issues at www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk Always treat all cables as live. Make sure you allow time before each job to obtain cable plans and be mindful service cables could be overhead as well as underground. Underground cables should be clearly marked before excavating – with trial holes dug if necessary – consult HSG47 ‘Avoiding Danger from Underground services’. Show these plans to everyone on site before starting work. Confirm locations by using a CAT (cable avoidance) tool. Locate, identify and clearly mark where cables are. Look Up and Look Out for overhead lines and always use a cable detector before drilling into walls, roof areas or walls. Check where a service cable enters a building. Inform other trades working with you of the location of cables. ALWAYS do your own checks before you start to drill or dig. Work away from overhead power lines when handling long items, such as scaffold poles, or when using lifting and digging equipment. Tell all those delivering to site the location of overhead power lines. Always request that the power supply be disconnected before starting any demolition work. Failure to do so could lead to injuries for yourself, colleagues or members of the public.

Contact with electricity can result in serious burns, impact your ability to work or even result in a fatality. Every year people are seriously injured after contact with electricity. Simple safety steps can save lives.

48 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

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Project News

MCLAUGHLIN & HARVEY BEGIN CONSTRUCTION ON NEW £140M ETEX PLASTERBOARD PLANT Following a competitive tender, Etex has awarded the contract for the expansion of its £140 million Siniat plasterboard facility to McLaughlin & Harvey. The contract was awarded to McLaughlin & Harvey following a multi-stage procurement process involving 21 suppliers, with the final selection being based on the company’s approach to health & safety, environmental strategies, innovation, adoption of new, cleaner technologies and social values. Construction work on the Bristol expansion project officially begun on 31st March with a breaking ground ceremony where children from a local school buried a time capsule to mark the start of construction works. Due to open in 2023, the new facility is a significant investment by Etex and demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting the future of British manufacturing, and eagerness to meet the demand for plasterboard within the UK, the largest plasterboard market in Europe. The facility will double Etex’s Bristol-based plasterboard production capacity, which will help to meet the high demand for high quality housing materials, whilst also creating 50 new jobs and encouraging more young people to enter the manufacturing sector through the company’s Operator Apprenticeship Scheme. The state-of-the-art expansion will also have a core focus on sustainability, utilising a rainwater harvesting system, installation points for solar PV and electric car charging stations, with the endambition of a fully electric forklift fleet. The extra space will also support post-consumer gypsum recycling, helping Etex’s Siniat brand in achieving 30% post-consumer gypsum in its plasterboard by 2025.

FRASERS PROPERTY APPOINTS GLENCAR TO CONSTRUCT NEW 117,000 SQ FT SPECULATIVE SCHEME AT BLYTHE VALLEY PARK The development will see the construction of three high specification industrial/logistics units of 25,000, 42,000 and 50,000 sq ft. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it has been appointed by leading multinational real estate and property management company Frasers Property to develop three speculative new industrial units of 25,000, 42,000 and 50,000 sq ft at Blythe Valley Park in Solihull. The development being marketed as Connexion II sits in a prominent location close to the main entrance to Blythe Valley Park and only 2 minutes from J4 of the M42. Blythe Valley Park is the premier business park in the West Midlands region, accommodating a wide range of occupiers in prime office, R&D, industrial and logistics space. All three units will be developed to a high-quality sustainable specification, targeting BREEAM Excellent accreditation and an EPC Rating of A. The development is due for completion by the end of 2022.

MAC-GROUP STARTS WORK ON £5M COLLEGE BUILDING IN BIRMINGHAM West Midlands-based construction company mac-group has started work on a £5 million teaching facility at Joseph Chamberlain College in Birmingham. The new 1500m2 three-storey building will include 13 classrooms and learning spaces, including ICT, digital lounge and

conference room. It will also include ancillary facilities for staff, such as meeting rooms and offices, plus a break-out lounge for students. It will be used primarily for business studies. The scheme is the first for mac from the Procure Partnerships West Midlands Framework – which supports public sector bodies to procure contractor partners – after being selected as a supplier. The new building, designed by architect Glancy Nicholls, will sit within the existing college campus, in Balsall Heath, and will feature a brick work and copper cladding exterior, and a single storey entrance and reception facing the campus.

50 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

It also includes a range of sustainable features, such as green and blue roof systems - designed to attenuate stormwater into the main drainage system, roof-mounted photovoltaic arrays and air source heat pump systems. Inside, underfloor heating will be installed throughout to maximise teaching space with natural and mechanical ventilation. The works also include landscaping on the site. Completion is expected in Q1 2023. Ramboll has been appointed to do structural engineering, while Virtus is project managing the build. DW Pointer is consultant for mechanical and electrical services.

Project News

PLANNING GRANTED FOR TWO TRAVIS PERKINS SITES DESIGNED BY THE HARRIS PARTNERSHIP A £2.3million development at the former coal yard inn Bournemouth, and a £2.8 million scheme in Cambridge each designed by The Harris Partnership (THP) on behalf of Travis Perkins, have both received planning permission. The Bournemouth development will include a two-storey building featuring a 1,338sqm commercial builder’s trade station of which 100sqm will house an ancillary joinery department. The upper floor will be home to offices and storage. A 228sqm, fenced tool hire enclosure will neighbour the main building. The Cambridge site is composed of two units. The first, at 1,584sqm will be used for bulky goods storage whilst the second will be a 536sqm showroom and sales area with staff facilities. The scheme includes two dedicated tool hire areas. Careful consideration has been given to landscaping, which is integral to the overall design with the existing wall and set back from the road maintained. The proposals include 14 staff parking spaces and 14 cycle lockers. Tanya Trayner for THP Reading says, “We have an established working relationship with Travis Perkins so understand exactly what they need to create a successful new retail store.

It’s always satisfying to be able to deliver a development that not only improves the site but creates real jobs and offers a service to local people. THP is one of the most experienced architects in the UK providing a specialist brownfield to commercial service. Travis Perkins is the UK’s largest builder’s merchants and home improvement retailer. Work for both schemes is expected to start on site in July 2022 with completion planned in early-mid 2023.

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 51

Tools, Plant and Equipment

BUILDING THE FUTURE: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT COMES ON-BOARD AS OFFICIAL CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER As the FIA World Rallycross Championship races full speed ahead towards its exciting electric future, another key building block has slotted into place with the appointment of Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) as the series’ Official Construction Equipment Supplier.

campaign – while integrated digital tools including the all-encompassing RX+ livestreaming platform will allow a wider audience to enjoy the action virtually.

Both parties are firmly committed to accelerating sustainable transformation, with Volvo CE targeting an all-electric range by 2030. The three-year partnership will see Volvo CE put its industry-leading construction equipment to work at the pinnacle of the dualsurface discipline, while pushing the boundaries for safety, equality and diversity and demonstrating the potential of electric power on a global stage.

When evaluating World RX as an engagement platform, we considered the fact that while the pandemic has accelerated digitalisation, there is still a business need to meet customers and partners to build relationships and to demonstrate and educate around the electric offering.

The synergies are manifold. Much like World RX’s high-calibre competitors, Volvo CE has a track record of delivering high-performance off-road solutions, and the company will use the championship as a showcase for its growing range of electric construction equipment and innovative services to a vast and invested fanbase. As part of a shared sustainability roadmap, the objective will be to limit transportation and logistics emissions on-site, boost inclusivity and reduce travel-related emissions. Volvo CE will invite predominantly local customers to attend race weekends – with the championship set to visit seven different circuits over the course of its 2022

Further exciting details about the groundbreaking new partnership will be revealed over the coming weeks.

Bill Law, Head of Brand, Marketing & Communications, Volvo CE, said:

52 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

“A global shift to an electric future is inevitable and urgent – and we know that more sustainable construction solutions are a vital part of driving that change. That is why we are thrilled to partner with the now fully electric FIA World Rallycross Championship – a series that shares our commitment to not only demonstrate the power of electro-mobility today, but to also work together on a journey to build the world we want to live in. “When evaluating World RX as an engagement platform, we considered the fact that while the pandemic has accelerated digitalisation, there is still a business need to meet customers and partners to build relationships and to demonstrate and educate around the electric offering. The integration of the physical event and the digital experience makes World RX a good fit into our new marketing approach, reflecting evolving ways to reach all our stakeholders in an engaging and exciting manner.” Arne Dirks, Executive Director, Rallycross Promoter GmbH, said: “We are very proud to announce Volvo CE as our Official Construction Equipment Supplier. They are a great partner for World RX, and they join us at a seminal moment as the World Championship goes electric. Not only do we share similar goals with regard to sustainability, but Volvo CE will be working with us on some hugely exciting top-secret projects that we will be able to confirm shortly and which we are confident will kick-start rallycross’ new era in sensational style.”

Over the last few years, Leon Boots has expanded within the UK into many different markets, where it has gained recognition for the effectiveness of their footwear & collected a number of awards along the way as mentioned above. The highlighted industries which have caused the most waves for the brand is within the Agricultural & Fishing community with stockists growing on a daily basis with agreements in place with 2 of the leading UK Wholesalers within the Agriculture & Equestrian sectors. These have come mainly from the UK consumer seeing a reliable, durable, comfortable products that delivers great value for money….

LEON BOOTS MAKE HUGE STEPS IN CONSTRUCTION Introducing Leon Boots Co, a brand leading manufacturer of a unique style of wellington boots. Starting out in 2012 as a distributor of EVA Wellington Boots, the company has gained unprecedented growth since its inception and through its dedication to responding to the needs of its customers; Leon Boots Co was first established in 2016 by Managing Director, Lukas Leoniuk & partner investor DFE Company Leon Boots after discovering a gap in the market and developed their ULTRALight Protective/Safety Boots. Speaking with Kev Burgess at the start of 2020, the UK National Sales Director for Leon Boots told us that, “In 2016 together with the team in Ireland, we decided to create our own brand of footwear ‘LBC – Leon Boots Co, this was introduced into the UK market in 2018 with the impact & growth it has achieved in two years being unprecedented covering many different market sectors.

Renowned as a revolutionary alternative to heavy rubber or PVC footwear, Leon Boots’ range of ULTRALight Wellington Boots maintain a plethora of advantages over outdated heavy alternatives. Using a combination of EVA and TRC Polymers, the boots are up to 65% lighter than rubber boots, more durable, supportive, are both split and crack resistant unlike PVC or PU wellingtons and far more comfortable than any other wellingtons you have worn before... Kev continued, “They also contain a removable and washable sock liner for extra comfort & warmth should you need it even though EVA is a great insulator down to minus 30 degrees, making them a truly unique product...” One product within the company’s unique range of Ultralight boots is its Safety S5 ULTRALight Men’s Safety Wellington. Using TRC Polymer, the boots are completely waterproof and through EVA features, they are the lightest safety Wellingtons on the market. Not just lightweight, they also contain an EN345 200KJ steel toe cap and Kevlar antiperforation midsole, therefore Leon Boots received an award in the 2019 Design and Build Awards. Kev explained that, “We won the Most Outstanding in Construction Footwear in the 2019 Design and Build Awards, Dairy-Tec we won an innovation award for our Non-Slip Parlour Boot & at this year’s Big One Fishing show in Stoneleigh even sold a pair to a well-known TV Presenter/Author for his upcoming extreme fishing documentary.“

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At the start of the year the company had committed to over 30 trade shows across the UK to as Kev likes to alliterate “get the brand out there” with high success at some of the earlier events, one being the LAMMA show which is the UK’s largest agricultural show at the NEC Birmingham, and the Big One Fishing Show in Stoneleigh. Unfortunately the terrible Coronavirus pandemic caused mass disruption, taking a grip of the world. Sadly the rest of the 2020 show calendar was cancelled which has caused all businesses not just ours some big problems. I wish everybody well and let’s just keep going together to get back to great times. Through the company’s determination to dominate every market lockdown has not stopped Leon Boots Co from expansion and for the start of the 20/21 winter season released at the beginning of September a Non-Safety & Safety PU wellington. With their ingredient mix of PU & EVA making it a lighter, stronger, more durable & less lightly to crack or split alternative to many other products on the market. Kev mentioned,

Attending the shows pre pandemic we had a number of requests from the general public to manufacture a wellington of this style & we believe we have delivered. In terms of the future ambitions for the company, Leon Boots plans to reach and continue its dominating market presence. As stated by Kev, the company’s main goals are to gain further market share Worldwide through our nominated partners in Asia, USA, Canada, EU & Australia. The Company’s overall mission is to provide people with lighter, more durable & far more comfortable wellington boots, as daily comfort, especially in wet and cold conditions is of fundamental importance for every level of employee.

For any further information Contact: Kev Burgess T 01934 315386 M 07525 772427 kevin@leonbootsco.com www.lbcboots.com

Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 53

Tools, Plant and Equipment

MAKING CONSTRUCTION MORE SUSTAINABLE - THE ROLE OF TRADE RETAILERS Sustainable construction and environmentally friendly building practices are more important than ever before. And every business in the construction trade industry needs to play its part in becoming more socially responsible. Regulations on designing and building more energy efficient properties have become greater, especially for new build developments. By 2025, the UK government is setting out to make all homes highly energy efficient, zero carbon ready with low carbon heating. These homes are expected to produce 75-80% lower carbon emissions compared to current levels. To ensure a greener, cleaner construction, it’s vital that, across the industry, companies build with renewable and recyclable resources and materials as well as using more eco-friendly tools. During any construction project, great or small, reducing waste and energy consumption where possible must be a key priority alongside using products that are kinder to the environment and safer to use. The construction supply chain For the construction sector to become truly sustainable, every partner in the supply chain ecosystem has a role to play. From housebuilders, developers and manufacturers to building consultants, procurement managers and suppliers, everyone involved in the sector must take responsibility. This includes builders’ merchants and trade supply retailers too, both large and small.

To ensure a greener, cleaner construction, it’s vital that, across the industry, companies build with renewable and recyclable resources and materials as well as using more eco-friendly tools. Reducing waste All our actions create a carbon footprint, which impacts negatively on the health of our planet. Reducing our carbon footprint can help combat climate change, reduce health risks, and stop wildlife extinction. This is why U-PRO is committed to reducing waste and using products that can either be recycled or are made from recycled or sustainable materials to prevent landfill waste. Reducing plastic packaging use has been a key aim for the online trade retailer, which has moved to a bailing system that uses recyclable bands to hold pallets and parcels together instead of polythene wrapping. Not an easy feat as tools and supplies are often overwrapped in polythene, but switching to a recyclable packaging option was both more environmentally friendly and waste efficient.

At U-PRO, a growing online retailer of construction and building trade tools, sustainability sits at the heart of business operations. The retailer is focused on working in more sustainable ways, especially with manufacturers and wholesalers, to adopt an eco-friendly ethos that shapes not just their actions, but the product range they provide to customers too.

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More recycling, fewer waste collections As U-PRO continues to reduce waste, it’s also focused on more sophisticated recycling initiatives which, in turn, have reduced the number of waste collections required, reducing fuel emissions too. Eco friendly tools and supplies As part of its commitment to becoming a sustainable business, U-PRO has worked closely with wholesalers to offer a wider range of eco-friendly tools and supplies to customers. The products in the eco-friendly section of the website use sustainable materials and are recyclable or have very little impact on the environment. Examples of these eco-friendly products include Trade Strip products such as multi-purpose paint strippers, a one-stop all round graffiti remover, a textured coatings remover (ideal for removing Artex® type coatings) and other specialist products like hand cleaners, glue removers and degreasers. The products are ideal for trade and industrial use and are solvent-free, created using revolutionary water-based technology that makes them substantially safer and much more environmentally friendly than traditional hazardous solvents. Sustainable building and adopting an eco-friendlier approach to construction is possible - if everyone works together to achieve a shared goal of more socially responsible processes. The planet is our home and our responsibility. If we all take action to be more environmentally conscious, adopt cleaner ways of working and use eco-friendly products, we can all do our bit to help create a more sustainable world.

Tools, Plant and Equipment

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Construction UK Magazine - May 2022 55

Tools, Plant and Equipment

RED DIESEL REFORM: WILL IT DRIVE A SHIFT TO ELECTRIC IN UK CONSTRUCTION SECTOR OR WILL IT JUST CAUSE INFLATION? From the 1st of April, the UK government has banned the use of rebated diesel – Red diesel – for machinery used for construction work. The construction industry has lobbied hard against this change – particularly given the recovery from Covid and the impact of the Ukraine conflict on oil prices – but the UK Treasury has stuck to its position: it is necessary to implement this change to help the UK meet its 2050 net zero ambitions. Will this policy drive a shift to electric machinery to save costs or will it have little impact on emissions and lead to project cost inflation? And with raw material prices still high and an increase in National Insurance, will this lead to a “perfect storm” in 2022? What is Red Diesel? Red diesel is a rebated form of diesel that can be used in a variety of off-road applications. Red dye is added to standard, white diesel to help inspectors identify if it is being used illegally. The rebate is used to offset fuel duty and is worth 46.81 pence per litre, making a significant contribution to cost savings for construction and agricultural users. Impact on Fuel Prices Even before the end of the fuel rebate, fuel prices have risen to a level not seen since 2012. Prices have been slowly creeping up during the recovery from Covid, but the invasion of Ukraine by Russia has seen prices sky-rocket. Whilst oil producing nations have agreed plans to increase production to offset the shock, it seems clear that higher prices are likely to be the norm for some time to come. To give an indication of the impact of the removal of the red diesel rebate for the construction sector, Interact Analysis has looked at the cost implications for a variety of machines based on their typical operational performance.

For smaller equipment – compact excavators or medium sized backhoe loaders, the additional cost per month or per year may not seem very high but multiplied across tens or hundreds of machines it becomes substantial. Large contractors may be able to absorb this cost – for a while – but smaller or independent contractors may struggle to absorb them without passing them on to customers. Combined with an increase in National Insurance payments and raw material costs, it seems inevitable that project cost inflation is on the cards for 2022. Are Electric Machines the Solution to High Fuel Costs? The great advantage of electric vehicles – cars, trucks or excavators – is that the running costs are much lower than their conventionally fueled equivalents. Electric powertrains are much more efficient – making better use of the “fuel” – and maintenance and service costs are lower. As of April 2022, if you look at the main JCB website the monthly hire purchase price for its electric mini-excavator – the 19C-1E – is listed as £1,320. A diesel model – the 18Z1 – is only £660 per month. Even allowing for the lower cost of fueling an electric

56 Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

excavator, the red diesel rebate reform doesn’t add enough cost to justify a move to battery electric machinery in the short term. The high price of batteries means that it is still better – if painful – to stick with diesel. In this regard, the UK Treasury’s decision to remove the rebate for construction vehicles is unlikely to reduce emissions. Are there other efficiency options for operators? For larger, heavy-duty applications, there are hybrid machines – that can recover energy – that are more efficient. The Volvo EC300E makes use of a hydraulic accumulator to recover energy from the boom arm. Or there is a range of Komatsu excavators that make use of an electric motor to swing the upper-structure, where energy is harvested when the rotational motion is braked. Beyond new machinery, operators would be well advised to also concentrate on maintenance to ensure machines are operating as efficiently as possible – replace filters and oil, reduction of idling, and selecting the right sized machine for a job. What can the UK do? Interact Analysis forecasts that battery prices for electric construction machinery will decline quickly over the next 5 to 10 years; however, this won’t happen quickly enough to make a difference with the current situation. The UK government could look across the North Sea to The Netherlands, where a set of smart government policies are helping to fund the adoption of electrified construction machinery. In the meantime, UK operators are left in a very difficult position – take a hit on the costs, or pass them on to their customers.

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Construction UK Magazine - May 2022

Articles inside

Volvo Construction Equipment comes on-board as Official

Making construction more sustainable - the role of trade retailers

STEPNELL ANNOUNCES TWO NEW SENIOR APPOINTMENTS

Green light for Sunderland Civic Centre redevelopment

Mott MacDonald response to UK Government’s Energy Security Strategy

Buro Happold designs standout steel structure to house the future of neutron science

Show Preview: FIREX International 2022 returns to ExCeL London

Show Preview: Digital Construction Week is back on 18-19 May

UK first technology could be the key to sustainable homes

Phoenix Brickwork lays ONE MILLIONTH brick at 1,400 new student flats in Lincoln