Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

FEBRUARY 2018

McLaren Construction to deliver £90m Ashford Designer Outlet expansion The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show returns to increase Midland’s property development

Wienerberger wins Travis Perkins’ supplier of the year award

Pick Everard look back at the last 12 months in construction, and discuss what’s next for 2018

Industry Experts Join Scotland’s Housing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP to Promote Offsite Manufacturing

National Federation of Builders: Withholding subcontractor payments is unethical, with over £10.5 billion being withheld annualy

Ecobuild 2018: the event shaped by the industry

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Contents February 2018

06

Punching shear problems resolved with Schöck Bole system

08

Pick Everard - 12 months in construction, and what’s next for 2018

14

Work commences on brand new student accommodation development in Coventry

18

The critical role of certified pipe wraps in fire containment - Pyroplex

20

Brogan Group offer common user towers for High-Rise Projects

22

Survey reveals how construction leaders feel about 2018

32

Work starts on new affordable homes in Pollokshaw

34

VPS Security explain all about the new JCB Alert Tower

36

Goole Academy renovation completed

by Britcon

42

Height Safe ask are you working at height safely?

45

Wienerberger wins Travis Perkins’ supplier of the year award

46

McLaren Construction to deliver £90m Ashford Designer Outlet expansion

48

Nemec discuss their successful living wall gardens

54

Ecobuild 2018: the event shaped by the industry

06 08 14

18

20

22

32

34

36

45

42

46

54

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Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 03

News Stories

The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show returns to increase Midland’s property development Latest figures released by the National Custom & Self Build Association reveal that 33,000 people have already signed up to the Right to Build register since October 2017, which means that at least half of the demand for serviced plots will have to be authorised by October 2019. To support more people in their desire to build homes in the region and inspire remodelling projects, The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show is returning to the NEC, Birmingham from 22-25 March 2018.

Over four packed days, visitors will benefit from more than 500 exhibitors and 16 free daily seminars and masterclasses in the extended venue.

The event is a best-in-class marketplace for all the latest products and services provided by specialist companies in industries ranging from kitchens; bathrooms; doors and windows; heating; energy efficiency; architecture; design; financial services; planning permission and much more. Aside from providing advice and guidance, real case studies will be at the show to discuss the dilemmas they faced during their self-build/renovation experience, helping visitors with similar problems.

On site, visitors will be able to book bespoke consultations with celebrity experts who present their favourite TV property programmes. Charlie Luxton, sustainable architectural designer and presenter of Channel 4’s ‘Best Laid Plans’, will be on-hand to discuss homes of the future, new architectural ideas and eco living. Julia Kendell, interior design expert for BBC’s ‘DIY SOS The Build’ and ITV’s ’60 Minute Makeover’, will also be there to meet with visitors and talk about trendy interior adaptions and offer inspiration to anyone who wants to revamp their home.

The Advice Centre, a drop-in hub for one-on-one impartial guidance, is open

to people who are interested in running ideas past property specialists with years of experience in their field. This show area will see the return of the Ask the Builder zone, where visitors will be given tips on locating approved construction workers from members of the Federation of Master Builders.

Visitors who are interested in free oneon-one appointments with chartered specialists from RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) will want to stop by the Ask the Architect area, which will cover a wide array of topics such as extensions, new builds, internal alterations and much more.

For objective tailored advice, the Ask the Expert zone will provide 15-minute consultations via interactive sessions with some of the UK’s leading property specialists. Visitors will be able to talk through their plans with Michael Holmes (director of content and product development for Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Jason Orme (editorial director of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine; Mariana Pedroso (interior designer and architect); Hugo Tugman (chair and founder of Architect Your Home); Tim Pullen (eco-expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine);

Bob Branscombe (building expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine); Allan Corfield (self-build expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine) and Sally Tagg (an expert on planning permission).

Across the four days, Oakwrights Design Consultation and The Potton Lounge will be offering free consultations with members of their design teams. They will help visitors envisage, create and deliver their own tailored new home from scratch. Attendees who are interested in these consultations can pre-book an appointment on the event’s website.

The show app is also available for download on Android and iPhone. The app will facilitate consumers visiting the venue, having the option of scheduling and sending alerts for key seminars and masterclasses, browsing through the list of specialists available at the Advice Centre, and accessing the latest offers and travel information.

Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £18 on the door (children under 16 go free). For further information visit www. homebuildingshow.co.uk/national or call the ticket hotline on 0844 854 0503 (calls cost 7p per minute plus network extras).

Adey Steel Group named as one of Europe’s best in first-ever ‘Ones to Watch’ list Adey Steel Group have been named as one of Europe’s ‘Ones to Watch’ in a list of business excellence, published by the European Business Awards sponsored by RSM. The Loughborough business was chosen as

it demonstrates exceptional achievement in one of the 12 European Business Awards categories, which is Europe’s largest cross-sector business competition, reflecting the core values of innovation, success and ethics that the programme holds.

04 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

A leading steel fabrication and processing specialist, the Adey Steel Group have over 90 years of applied expertise in the construction, engineering and infrastructure sectors. Built from four individual companies, they are founded

News Stories Crest Nicholson announces purchase of land for 137-unit site in Ludlow, Shropshire Crest Nicholson Midlands division has announced the purchase of land for a 137-unit residential development from national strategic land company, Richborough Estates. The site is situated off Foldgate Lane, Ludlow.

The proposed development will provide a mix of house types, ranging in size from two-bedroom homes, to three, four, and five-bedroom houses. On completion, it will create a residential community that responds to the housing requirements of the local area. As part of the proposed plans for the site, Crest Nicholson will include a target affordable provision of 25%, a total of 34 units. Crest Nicholson will work closely now with the Council to ensure this development meets local needs Crest Nicholson acquired the site from

Richborough Estates with outline planning consent for the development in place.

As part of Crest Nicholson’s commitment to developing sustainable communities, a children’s play area will be incorporated into the plans, as well as a community orchard at the south of the site.

The development will be conveniently located within easy reach of Ludlow town centre, and the A49 runs to the east of the site, linking residents to the surrounding towns. Ludlow train station is also just over a kilometre away, which provides links to the likes of Hereford, Manchester Piccadilly and Cardiff Central.

Ben Miller, Managing Director Crest Nicholson Midlands, said: “We’re pleased to announce the purchase of this site at Ludlow, which will provide much-needed

high quality housing for the local area.

“We will work hard to ensure we deliver the creation of a sustainable housing development that possesses a strong sense of identity whilst also blending seamlessly with the local vernacular.”

James Bradshaw, Divisional Director at Richborough Estates, said: “As a strategic land company, our role is to promote prospective development sites securing planning consent eventually selecting a development partner to construct and deliver the new homes..

“As with all of the development sites on which we work, the objective is to ensure that the new homes are aligned with the character of the existing settlement and we are confident that Crest Nicholson is the perfect partner to deliver these muchneeded new homes.”

Taking Steps to Modernise Construction through Collaboration, Innovation and Education The procurement and delivery of construction projects in the United Kingdom can be modernised, with benefits for all - the Construction supply chain as well as clients. The construction business is worth £65 billion a year, of which direct expenditure by government departments and their agencies accounts for £7.5 billion.

the next three years, the need for widespread implementation of good practice now has a greater degree of urgency.

Government spending on construction will increase substantially following the spending Review 2000 which has doubled net public investment on infrastructure over the next three years to £19 billion to deliver improved transport, schools and hospitals.

This higher level of spending on capital projects increases the requirement for improvements in public sector procurement and management of new construction, refurbishment and repair and maintenance.

Mark Farmer CEO of CAST and author of Modernise or Die states, “The construction industry is in dire need of change. What is clear to me following the nine months spent conducting this review is that carrying on as we are is simply not an option. With digital technology advancements pushing ahead in almost every other industry and with the construction labour pool coming under serious pressure, the time has come for action. The construction industry doesn’t have the impetus needed for this change; it requires external action to initiate change.”

With Government plans to increase infrastructure spending to £19 billion over

The industry seems to be at a plateau at the moment. That’s why, it is crucial

on strong values, with a dedication to engineering excellence and hold outstanding customer service at the core.

drives their country’s prosperity. The ‘Ones to Watch’ lists will set a benchmark of success for the European business community.”

Adrian Tripp, CEO of the European Business Awards, said: “We wanted to recognise more widely the many incredible business success stories from across Europe.”

He continued: “The talent, dedication and innovation at the heart of these companies creates jobs and opportunity, and is what

Adey Steel Group will now have the chance to compete in one of the 12 categories of the European Business Awards to become a National Winner in their country. If successful,

for construction to open its gates to new technologies. The optimisation of the construction project management procedure combined with the adoption of an open-mind towards change will result in saving the industry’s future. In any other case, construction will start facing an even deeper crisis during the upcoming years.

This will be discussed in greater detail by Jonathan Lock, Director, Design4Structures at Explore Offsite Outlooks – he will be speaking about ‘driving change and increase efficiencies through collaborative working using the latest in digital technology, whilst working towards reducing the projected skills shortage, through industry specific and relevant training.’

they will then take part in the grand final in May 2018, where the final 12 European winners will be announced. They will also have the chance to enter a public vote, which attracts attention and support from across the globe.

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 05

Punching shear problems resolved with Schöck Bole system With flat slab construction, there is the inevitable risk of punching failure. So when loads in the stress areas are increased, consideration has to be given to issues such as the quality of the concrete, additional reinforcement content, even enlarging the column heads. These options are neither time efficient nor cost effective, and rarely solve the problem to an acceptable performance level. Resolving any potential problems of punching shear at the major new Harbour Central development needed to be cost-effective, easy-to-install and certainly dependable.

Canary Wharf, in Docklands, is home to some of the UK’s most high profile buildings and the latest addition to the skyline in East London is Harbour Central. Located just a few hundred metres to the south of Canary Wharf, on the far side of South Dock at Millharbour; it is an exciting mixed-use development covering an area of around 1000 hectares. Seven, new buildings, ranging in height from eight to fortytwo storeys, will deliver over 900 new homes as a mix of one, two, three and four bed homes, along with eight exceptional penthouse apartments. All of which sit alongside retail and leisure facilities designed around two green squares High-rise glass and bronze clad 35 and 42 storey residential towers dominate the development. The focal point of the development is Maine Tower, a marker building which offers 297 extremely high specification apartments with exceptional views from the upper floors. The tower also features a New York-style lounge, a library, gym, spa and cocktail bar.

Historically the site used to be a grain storage area and the design concept of the building picks up on this organic ‘wheat stalk’ theme

06 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

by breaking it up vertically into eight storey segments, made up of four storey ‘pods’.

Preventing punching failure is critical Construction at Harbour Central involves a large single-storey reinforced concrete basement, high-rise reinforced concrete cores and frames up to 42 storeys. The high-rise reinforced tower cores utilise a slip-form method of construction and all suspended reinforced concrete slabs are constructed using a post tensioning system. Flat slab floor is of course primarily an economical form of construction, but it offers other benefits as well. The minimisation of shuttering time for example, simplification of reinforcement work, ease of underslab work such as ducting and just as importantly, the optimum use of space. However, with flat slab construction the risk of punching failure is always a critical issue. When increasing the loads in the stress areas, a great deal of consideration has to be given to variables such as the quality of the concrete itself, improving the reinforcement content and even enlarging the column heads. None of these options is necessarily time efficient or cost effective. They rarely solve the problem to an acceptable performance level either.

So the ideal solution to resolving any potential problems of punching shear, needs to be cost-effective, easy-to-install and certainly dependable.

Increased shear force resistance of around 70% The Schöck Bole reinforcement system is used to prevent punching failure throughout the Harbour Central development. This widely used and trusted solution consists of double-headed studs and anchors, with spacing bars, which enable installation after the bottom reinforcement and before the top layer. Two spacer bars are welded to the vertical studs, which ensure the correct distance between uprights; and the forged stud heads guarantee a perfect finishing bond with the concrete. As result, when compared with a typical stirrup reinforcement system, an increased shear force resistance of around 70% is achievable. It is a cost-effective and timesaving solution and as the Modebest Senior Engineer on site, Sean Togher commented: “The Schöck Bole product was easy to understand from a reference point of view and we found it really straightforward to install”.

Other variants – plus Schöck design software too In addition to the standard Bole solution, Schöck has developed three other punching shear reinforcement variants. The type U is a solution designed for installation before the lower mat; the type O is for installation after the top reinforcement layer; and the type F is designed for use in element slabs at prefabricating plants. The entire range is supplied ready for installation and provides a totally reliable solution to the problem of punching shear in flat slabs. There is downloadable user-friendly Schöck design software available too, which enables fast and simple dimensioning of the product to British Standards and the export of CAD drawings with dxf-format.

For further information on the Schöck Bole system contact the company on 01865 290 890 or visit www.schoeck.co.uk

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 07

News Stories

Duncan Green

12 MONTHS IN CONSTRUCTION – AND WHAT’S NEXT FOR 2018 DUNCAN Green, managing partner at the property and construction consultancy Pick Everard provides his views on the obstacles, successes and political changes that have affected the construction industry during 2017 and how the industry is set to fare in 2018.

Brexit – is it all doom and gloom?

Brexit was a big concern for the construction industry at the start of the year – and this is a worry that hasn’t completely disappeared. Confidence in the market has slowly started to return but as negotiations continue we are certainly not out of difficult waters just yet and confidence in markets is the most important factor.

Political instability A number of political changes have obviously also had their effect – from a snap election to a new US President

- and there have been national and international programmes of work which have had to adapt to changes in the political landscape. As always, we’ve remained resilient and flexible and have managed, as an industry, to handle anything that’s thrown at us. I hope for a calmer political landscape in 2018, giving us some much-needed stability and ensuring that national schemes are able to get underway.

These national infrastructure projects are a step in the right direction but I hope that 2018 sees more in terms of Northern/Southern connections as well as improved global connectivity.

The Cabinet Office is predicting major increases in investment in energy and flood defence and we are already targeting these markets.

National projects

Within Pick Everard itself, we’ve completed some fantastic projects of which I’m very proud. We have worked across the UK on some really transformative schemes including: the Discovery Building at BioCity in Nottingham, a multi-million pound bioscience centre which boasts the most incredible LED cladding which has lights mirroring solar flares in the Earth’s atmosphere and The Oculus at Warwick University, which is an architecturally stunning, flagship multi-

A number of high profile projects made the headlines in 2017 – HS2, Heathrow’s third runway and London’s Crossrail. The UK’s infrastructure has been a high priority for the government for some time – and rightly so. With ambitious new housing targets and a bid to get more start-ups off the ground, the UK is going to have to respond with improved connections but there is still some way to go.

08 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

Pick Everard’s 2017

News Stories as fibre optic broadband. These are all positive moves in terms of bringing us up to speed and generally stimulate productivity.

Encouraging increased gender diversity in the construction industry has continued to be a ‘hot topic’. This year, we held our own ‘women in the construction’ campaign, showcasing what incredible talent we have in the industry. use teaching facility.

We’re also working on the architecturally significant Riverside Ice and Leisure facility in Chelmsford; a scheme of 250 residential units in Hillingdon with St Modwen as well as a new school for 800 pupils in Jersey Les Quennevais.

Encouraging increased gender diversity in the construction industry has continued to be a ‘hot topic’. This year, we held our own ‘women in the construction’ campaign, showcasing what incredible talent we have in industry. Women hold some of the top positions at Pick Everard but we appreciate that there’s still a long way to go before we see real gender equality in the industry.

Girls need to be inspired and encouraged to take up STEM subjects earlier to promote the construction

industry as a viable and exciting career choice. It’s fantastic that there are more and more women realising the opportunities available to them within the industry and that it’s certainly no longer a ‘boys’ club’.

With a skills gap that needs addressing, now is the ideal time to be promoting jobs to talented young professionals and I’m looking forward to see what the future will bring for women in the industry.

2018 – what’s next?

Looking to the future, we ended the year with the first Autumn Budget announced by Philip Hammond, detailing further investment into T levels, a new system to encourage more students to take maths for A Level by rewarding schools and a new Transforming Cities fund which aims to improve transport connections as well

I expect to see housebuilding continuing to increase, with new government interventions due to stimulate this area of the market, along with the surrounding infrastructure projects.

The UK’s slowing economic growth is due to impact the construction industry in 2018 but, with general confidence in the market continuing to improve, I am optimistic for the future of our industry.

If the terms of the Brexit divorce bill can be agreed upon quickly then we can really start to look to the future with a better understanding of where the UK is moving in terms of construction and output. I’m confident that, with a properly skilled workforce, 2018 will be a good year for the construction industry – I look forward to seeing more being done in terms of encouraging industry apprenticeships and training to secure our future.

Discovery Building at BioCity, Nottingham

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 09

Looking to add colour to your concrete paving, flooring or walling?

PICS provide the best in quality manufactured decorative concrete, and textured lightweight render walling systems for specification, and installation for the commercial and domestic construction markets.

Whether the construction process requires Colourmix to integrally colour concrete, or the use of Picspave to create a pattern imprinted concrete finish, PICS have the solution through our range of coloured and textured systems.

Coloured exposed aggregate, or Picstain for colouring existing plain concrete, there is almost no surface finish that cannot be recreated.

Wallcrete coloured and textured renders offer a bespoke option for matching original wall surfaces or being creative with wall finishes, adding colour and textured finishes to projects from theming work in the commercial leisure or retail sectors through to standard finishes in the domestic property market.

Full training and technical support from PICS offers the construction market the opportunity to get involved in the design and specification through to the final installation or utilising the experienced Picspave installer network in the UK and abroad.

Using products and installation techniques recognised worldwide, PICS continue to expand and offer both PICS and Hatcrete branded colouring products for the ready-mixed concrete industry, concrete product manufacturers and industrial flooring sector - whatever your role in construction, PICS are here to work with you. Simply call us to discuss any project or application that needs a colour or texture solution.

Using products and installation techniques recognised worldwide, PICS continue to expand and offer both PICS and Hatcrete branded colouring products for the ready-mixed concrete industry, concrete product manufacturers and industrial flooring sector

Pattern Imprinted Concrete Supplies Ltd Unit 2 Red Shute Hill Ind Est, Hermitage, Berkshire RG18 9QL T: +44 (0) 1635 202224 sales@picsuk.com www.hatcrete.com www.picsuk.com

2018 [Month] 20xx 10 xx Construction UK Magazine - February

TEC UK Ltd is changing its name to Klingenburg UK from 1st February 2018, after forming 5 years ago TEC has decided to revert to its parent companies name of Klingenburg.

Klingenburg Germany was founded by Hans Klingenburg in the 1970’s and has become the leading manufacture of both energy recovery & Heat Recover components and is now at the forefront of building and systems designer’s initial requirements. The innovation within Klingenburg and respect they have for their customers has made us No 1 when thinking of energy recovery.

“The only thing changing is the name!”, says Andrew Patch General Manager of Klingenburg U.K, Our core principle of customer service comes first remains, followed by product quality and design.

2018 see’s Klingenburg introducing a new range of air to air plate heat exchangers with efficiencies to meet new ERP regulations, alongside the new thermal wheel designs and counter-flow heat exchangers.

Registered Office: Unit 2 The Glenmore Centre, Shearway Business Park, Pent Road, Folkestone Kent CT19 4RJ Website: - www.klingenburg.co.uk

-

Email: - info@klingenburg.co.uk.

-

Telephone: - 01303 275598

xxxx

Engel’s ‘Galaxy’ workwear has universal appeal FE Engel, the Danish company which is recognised as one of the World’s leading manufacturers of comfortable and practical workwear includes the ‘Galaxy’ range amongst its collection.

cardigan, bib-overall, boiler suit and shorts with fabrics made from durable, two-ply cotton/ polyester yarns; most items feature several spacious pockets and many other shared functional details such as concealed buttons and zippers, adjustable jacket cuffs and CORDURA reinforced jacket elbows.

rsted Square, d, East Sussex, TN22 1QG rsted Square, Square, d, East Sussex, TN22 1QG re, uare, Sussex, TN22 1QG ex, TN22 1QG ssex, TN22 1QG One of the company’s best-selling brands, ‘Galaxy’ offers a comprehensive selection of smart and functional clothing with the emphasis as much on style and fit as on being protective and hardwearing; the trousers are narrower than normal, the jackets slim-cut and all garments are available in a choice of three colour combinations giving wearers a pride in their appearance and a professional image.

The company also offers the Galaxy ‘Light’ range which includes the 210 g/m2 ‘Light’ work jacket (1290-880) that has a longer, pleated back for added freedom of movement and stylish reflectors on both front and back for greater visibility. Available with or without matching trousers (2290-880), each incorporate many practical details giving maximum comfort, weather protection and quick and easy access to tools and personal accessories; both garments are made from 65% polyester, 35% cotton and are available in a choice of Anthracite Grey or 3 other colour combinations, in sizes XS-4XL. All Engel products are available from The Workwear Trade Centre, Milton Keynes; Telephone: 01908 561569; email: sales@wtc-workwear.co.uk and Anchor Safety, Ipswich; Telephone: 0800 328 5028; email: sales@anchorsafety.co.uk

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The Engel Galaxy ‘Light’ work trousers (2290-880)

Designed to suit every type of workplace situation the collection also consists of soft-shell and winter jackets, a comfortable fleece

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T: +44 (0)1825 764737 E: info@appeng.co.uk T: +44 (0)1825 764737 www.appeng.co.uk E: info@appeng.co.uk

www.appeng.co.uk Applications Engineering Ltd, 16 Horsted Square, Applications Engineering Ltd, 16 Horsted Square, Bellbrook Industrial Estate, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 1QG Bellbrook Industrial Estate, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 1QG

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alVe Set

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• • Available with optional CPVC Dual ports that enable the flow mating sockets. switch to be mounted on either side.

• 100% pressure tested.

• Available with optional CPVC

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ations Engineering Ltd, 16 Horsted Square, ook Industrial Estate,• Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 1QG Easy access for servicing

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The Engel Galaxy ‘Light’ work jacket (1290-880)

One of the company’s best-selling brands, ‘Galaxy’ offers a comprehensive selection of smart and functional clothing with the emphasis as much on style and fit as on being protective and hardwearing.

Are you sitting comfortably? From reclining chair to washroom throne – an Odeon cinema revamp ODEON Luxe Glasgow Quay has unveiled the results of its luxury makeover. A new wave of cinema where every seat is the best in house, this is the second ODEON in Europe to get the entertainment group’s ‘luxe’ upgrade.

Complementing the installation of state of the art visual and sound technology, all cinemagoers now get fully reclining seats for a more complete movie experience. Guests also get to enjoy increased leg room and personal space – and with the help of Formica Group, that also includes the men and women’s toilets.

As an entertainment space designed to offer ultimate comfort, when it came to specifying the material for the men and the women’s toilets it was vital that the aesthetic reflected the luxury image of the cinema.

Furthermore, with a recent survey on the public’s use of washrooms indicating that 70% of people are worried about the hygienic state of the toilets outside of their home, it was important that consideration was given to the properties of the washroom material.

Formica® laminate in Prestige Walnut décor was selected for the washroom doors and behind the sink panelling. Fabricated by the Solid Surfacing Company, the decor provides the freshness associated with the great outdoors, minus the high maintenance and hygiene issues of using real wood.

and 1 ¼” full bore test valve

sy access for servicing

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www.formica.com

Construction UK Magazine - [Month] 20xx xx 2018 12 Construction UK Magazine - February

Entry is now open.

Which projects will you enter?

www.bit.ly/NaturalStoneAwards

News Stories

Work commences on brand new student accommodation development in Coventry

Crosslane Student Developments, part of the Crosslane Group, is announcing that it has begun the construction of a new 614 bed purpose-built student accommodation development on Friars’ Road in Coventry.

The development comprises six new residential blocks each at different stepped heights of three, seven and ten storeys, rising to a 20 storey tower in the south-west corner of the site. The building is laid out in a V-shape to form a large, private landscaped courtyard, within which residents can study, collaborate, socialise and relax.

The site is located at the junction of Friars’ Road and St Patrick’s Road, within the Coventry Ring Road. It is in the south of the city centre, conveniently placed near the city’s most popular shopping locales including The Precinct, Smithford Way and Coventry Market, in addition to tourist attractions such as Coventry Cathedral and the famous statue of Lady Godiva.

The site is a short walk from the main campus of Coventry University as well as being very close to the city’s mainline train station which offers regular bus services for students attending Warwick University.

Students will be able to choose from one of the 135 high specification selfcontained ensuite studio apartments, one of the 5 two bed apartments, or from the 459 premium ensuite flats, available in clusters from four to six bedrooms.

The set-up encourages students to live in groups, make new friends and provide cultural opportunities as part of

their university experience, as well as providing rooms at more affordable rent prices. Cluster flats will share a spacious lounge, kitchen and dining area including a washer/dryer, which has proved particularly popular in other properties Crosslane has developed.

has committed to a £300million City Centre South redevelopment project.

This development in a prime location will satisfy some of the rapidly increasing demand for student accommodation in Coventry, freeing up homes which could be occupied by the city’s families.

A key component of the development is the dedicated shared areas to encourage residents to socialise and create a community. This includes a large highspecification common room with a games zone and study hub, on-site gym, cinema/ multi-media room, study room meeting hubs and kitchen/dining facilities for private entertainment. A tenth floor sky lounge and outdoor rooftop terrace will give residents the chance to socialise and celebrate in style with impressive views of the city skyline while superfast 100MB broadband and Wi-Fi throughout the building will provide residents with a firstclass experience.

Crosslane has appointed DAY Architectural as the architects and RG Group as the Main Contractor for the development.

The development will take less than two years to complete and is scheduled to be finished before the start of the 20192020 academic year. Prime Student Living, the student accommodation lettings and operational management arm of the Crosslane Group, will be responsible for achieving full occupancy prior to practical completion.

Coventry University is one of the fastest growing universities in the UK, with this year’s student numbers eight per cent higher than 2016 and 50 per cent higher than in 2011. The increase in the student population has boosted the city’s economy and the City Council

14 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

Mike Moran, Development Manager, Crosslane Student Developments, said: “Crosslane is delighted to have begun work on its first student accommodation development in Coventry. The scheme will be a gateway from the station into the heart of the city centre and is a short walk from Coventry University and the city’s main amenities and tourist attractions. In supplying 614 beds, the development will ease the imbalance in supply and demand for purpose-built student accommodation in Coventry.”

Dave Dixon, Managing Director, RG Group, said: “As the main contractor for Friars’ Road, we are delighted to be working with Crosslane on this exciting scheme in Coventry, due to open in time for the 2019-2020 academic year. Our team has built up significant expertise in the student accommodation sector and the building will be completed to the highest modern construction standards and a great addition to Coventry’s skyline.”

News Stories

Gravesend employee celebrates 15-year milestone An employee from Gravesend groundwork and materials supplier Rudridge has celebrated 15 years at the company.

Yard sales assistant Chris Yates, who joined the business in 2003, was presented with the company’s long service award and certificate by Regional Director Clive Summerfield.

Chris said:“I can honestly say I have enjoyed every moment of working at Rudridge. We have quite a few members of staff who have completed 10 to 15 years’ service and beyond, which is testament to what a great place this is to work. I am looking forward to being here for plenty more years to come.”

Clive praised Chris for his dedication and hard work. He said: “Chris is outside in all weathers helping customers, and always has a smile on his face. He is a perfect example of the dedication and commitment of our team, which always strives to deliver the very best service.”

Branch Manager, Craig Lyons, also marks his five-year anniversary at the company and commented: “We want to thank Chris

for his loyalty and positivity. I’m equally pleased to be celebrating five years with Rudridge, working with an incredible group of people. Our team is the key to

the success of the branch, so taking the opportunity to celebrate each individual achievement is very important to us.”

Construction leaders say: It’s time to ensure action on retentions The National Federation of Builders (NFB) and other trade federations with members most likely to be affected by the collapse of Carillion continue their push for action on retentions.

The SEC Group, The Electrical Contractors Association, Building Engineering Services Association, British Constructional Steelwork Association, Lift and Escalator Industry Association, National Association of Shopfitters, Scottish Building Federation, Electrical Contractors Association of Scotland and the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation believe this is an opportunity for the industry to move swiftly where there is agreement.

We are delighted that clients, main contractors and their representative bodies are calling for an end to retentions by 2025. However, given that industry reports dating back decades have called for the complete abolition of retentions or the holding of retentions in trust, a little more urgency would have been welcome.

As they are now on board, we trust that they will give their full backing to the Construction (Retention Deposit Schemes)

Bill 2018 introduced by Peter Aldous MP so that we, as an industry, can put an end to risking the £1 million lost each day to upstream insolvencies.

Richard Beresford, chief executive of the National Federation of Builders, said: “While there may be justifications for retentions, abuse across both the public and private sectors saps the supply chain of much-needed cash flow. This has a negative effect on the overall health of the construction industry.”

Robert Hudson, chief executive of the National Association of Shopfitters, said: “This obscenity perpetuated by tier one contractors has been allowed to go on unabated for far too long starving the supply chain of much needed cash to invest in training and apprenticeships” Vaughan Hart, managing director of Scottish Building Federation stated: “The size and scale of the insolvency of Carillion has brought the issue of retentions in the construction industry into sharp focus.

However, it should be borne in mind that the majority of the retention monies withheld do not sit in the hands of main contractors, but remain with their clients.

If retention monies have been released by the client on a project and not issued to the supply chain, this practice should be outlawed.“The abolition of retentions is something that SBF would welcome, but in the absence of such an undertaking, the implementation of trust schemes for retention monies, or more significantly better rules governing the defect liability period and process, should be considered to ensure that the main contractor is held accountable to manage the defect rectification process in an efficient and timely manner. The supply chain must be afforded better protection.”

SEC Group Chief Executive Rudi Klein said: “We must never be placed in a position again where thousands of firms have lost their retentions – monies they legally own – because of large insolvencies up the supply chain.”

With almost £1 billion in retentions being lost as a result of Carillion’s liquidation, we must not waste this opportunity to take what is a simple step to putting the entire supply chain - regional contractors, SMEs and specialists - on a more long-term sustainable footing and showing that the industry can work together.

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 15

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with the mega-power Nelweld N6000 The Nelweld N6000 brings stud welding into the 21st century.

With its innovative microprocessor control and patented digital user interface the N6000 gives you high power stud welding at the touch of the button.

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16 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

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The critical role of certified pipe wraps in fire containment Passive fire stopping products have a key role to play in the construction of any building, helping to slow the spread of fire, should the worst happen. There is no better time to fully understand how these various products work and essentially, help to reduce damage and most importantly, save lives.

Pyroplex® CE Marked Pipe Wraps–200 Series

Containment and compartmentalisation principally slow the spread of fire, using walls and floors as divisions. But what happens when internal services such as waste, water and drainage create large cavities to pass plastic, flammable pipes through the building? Fire can have the ability to spread far too quickly if these cavities are not correctly managed and sealed.

Pipe wraps and collars reinstate the fire resistance of the wall or floor that has been compromised by a cavity. However, using pipe wraps that are not tested and certified, or choosing installers that do not have the knowledge to undertake such important work presents further risks to the integrity of the building.

Pyroplex® CE Marked Pipe Wraps Wall Testing

Pyroplex has a well-deserved reputation for developing highly effective fire protection products that are firmly endorsed with industry accreditations and comprehensive testing, resulting in a range of products that are suitable for use across a wide, European market, where variances in specification can often exist.

across the Pyroplex range is relentless. For example, a series of fire resistance tests were commissioned to Exova Warrington Fire in June ‘17, specifically on pipe wraps, to look further at the performance of many pipe variables in both floors and walls. Carried out in accordance with EN 1366-3, the results for Pyroplex’s CE Marked 200 Series Pipe Wraps were positive and conclusive. Testing The testing programme that maintains the 16 variables that included Polyethylene, high level of certification and effectiveness Polypropylene, PVC-u, and acoustic composite pipes, all penetrations Pyroplex® CE Marked Pipe Collars–400 Series achieved 120 minutes fire performance.

Comments Andy Walsh, Technical

Manager for Pyroplex: “Tests such as these are an integral part of our business.

Specifiers, contractors and builders need total confidence that the fire protection products they select will deliver the determined level of fire resistance, should a fire break out. Only by specifying products backed up with industry relevant accreditations and reputable test data, can they be certain of this outcome.

Problems in poor specification and installation exist when it comes to fire containment products. Corners should never be cut in this area and we welcome enquiries from businesses that require guidance and technical knowledge regarding the correct choice, specification and installation of fire containment products.”

Website: www.pyroplex.com Email: info@pyroplex.com Phone: +44 (0)1905 795432

18 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

Tried and tested fire stopping products

UK MANUFACTURER OF FIRE CONTAINMENT PRODUCTS Pyroplex® products are extensively tested to various National and International Standards, and where appropriate carry CE marking in line with the Construction Product Regulation and/or other Regulatory requirements, including environmental.

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Common User Towers for HighRise Projects The solution to access requirements for personnel and materials during construction.

High-rise tower projects are on the up in and around London and the numbers are rising still. According to the 2017 London Tall Buildings survey, there are now 455 towers in the pipeline, of which 420 are marked out for residential.

With the number of new skyscrapers and tower developments transforming the capital’s skyline already, and this number set to climb further in the next few years, contractors need efficient and fit for purpose access solutions more than ever before. Common user towers and hoists make the construction of high-rise structures (up to 300m high) more efficient in terms of cost, time and money and greatly improve building logistics.

Brogan Group are one of the few access contractors in the capital that can offer design, hire and installation of common user towers – a dynamic access solution that eases the construction of tower designs drastically.

A Common user Tower is a temporary structure tied to a high-rise building during construction that enables all hoisting facilities to be arranged around and tied to it. Only the common tower itself is tied into the main structure, providing a common access area for all trades and goods, whilst reducing the need to leave openings for access into the building. Hoists can be attached to all three of the open sides of the tower and many also incorporate an escape staircase.

Employing common user towers affords maximum capacity for the transport of materials and personnel to optimum working heights of the building with minimum interference.

By positioning hoists and temporary staircases in just one concentrated area of the building, work such as cladding can be carried out more efficiently on the entire envelope of the building, with the exception of only

Brogan Group are one of the few access contractors in the capital that can offer design, hire and installation of common user towers – a dynamic access solution that eases the construction of tower designs drastically.

one area for the common tower tie in. This system also allows for the fit out of the lower floors to commence earlier as the building is being constructed.

Rapid fit outs are enabled as the tower/ hoist system allows contractors to fully exploit floor level openings and optimise the use of the floor heights when distributing cladding and installing prefabricated pods. The deck level can be set either flush with the slab level or above it depending on requirements.

As an established hoist contractor, Brogan Group offer a range of cage sizes on single or twin mast hoists, with cages as large as 3m wide and 5m long available on a twin mast. We design the optimum configuration for the programme of works with a choice of hoists to all sides of the tower or a mixture of hoists and bespoke temporary staircases that integrate with the common tower system.

Brogan Group common towers are extremely strong and safe. Towers are manufactured to the highest standards with a rigorous quality manufacturing process. Additionally, the tower, along with the ancillary access elements, are designed, inspected and maintained to the highest safety standards by Brogan Group design engineers, estimators and installers.

To find out more about Brogan Group’s common user towers and hoists or to see more about the full-range of access solutions they offer please visit www.brogangroup.com or call 0333 358 0007.

2018 [Month] 20xx 20 xx Construction UK Magazine - February

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News Stories

Survey reveals how construction leaders feel about 2018 Following Brexit and the election of Donald Trump across the Atlantic, the construction industry has had to battle some strong headwinds.

questions focussed on employee growth and skills highlighted specific concerns about the impact of our departure from the EU.

To find out how business leaders within the industry feel about the months and years ahead, SCC Design Build organised for a survey to be carried out to ask them their opinions on issues affecting the construction industry.

At present, around 8% of the construction industry’s workforce comes from EU countries and over the next few years, many of these workers could leave the country. This would dramatically reduce the sector’s talent pools.

Over 11,000 leaders from main contractors, architects and housebuilders were polled in the major industry survey.

In SCC Design Build’s survey, this problem is reflected: 56% of respondents believed that the number of employees in their business would stay the same in 2018, and 41% stated that it was very difficult to find workers with relevant skills.

SCC Design Build is an industry-leading supplier of pre-cast concrete solutions for multiple projects.

When asked how confident they were about the construction industry going forward, most participants stated that they were ‘cautious’, rather than ‘confident’ or ‘not at all confident’. Similarly, 47% did not believe the construction industry would grow in the next eighteen months (against 53% that think it will). Whilst reserved, these responses suggest that many are hopeful about the stability of their sector.

41% of participants also believed that Brexit negotiations would have the biggest impact on their business in the next five years and

But 37% said they have no problem accessing the skills they required to grow and develop their business.

Nevertheless, the overarchingly positive outlook was reiterated in responses to questions about turnover and growth.

Indeed, 43% of business owners expect their turnover to increase and 81% believe that new build housing (over public sector and government-funded infrastructure projects, for example) will provide them with the biggest opportunity for expansion.

22 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

However, respondents did state they expect commercial projects (such as hotels and schools) to remain steady going forward and 51% said they would like the government to spend more on major infrastructure projects like HS2, to boost the economy.

Jim Durkan, Commercial Director of SCC Design Build, comments on the survey’s findings: “The results of this questionnaire have improved our understanding of industry confidence levels and of the expectations of business leaders across the country.

“Naturally, there is still an element of uncertainty surrounding Brexit though.

For the construction industry, this has manifested in widespread concern about the availability of employees.

“However, the responses we collected show that whilst directors are cautious about the future, they are by no means pessimistic.”

In recent years, SCC Design Build has cultivated a reputation for producing bespoke pre-cast concrete solutions for high-profile projects, including the Holbeck Urban Village development in Leeds and the ground-breaking Pomona Island site in Manchester, and boasts incredibly fast lead times on their products.

BRITISH CEDAR SHINGLES & RIDGES CHARRED LARCH CLADDING CAPRICORN ECO TIMBER specialise in machining and supplying cladding, shingles, ridges, beams & decking in British grown sustainable, certified, naturally durable species including Western Red Cedar, Larch, Douglas Fir, English Oak & Tiga Wood Burnt Larch Cladding.

We are one of the very few companies producing British Western Red Cedar Shingles & Ridges from native grown Cedar in the UK. Capricorn Eco Timber also keep large stocks of very rare Ancient English Bog Oak logs carbon dated and certified to 4300 years old.

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ISD single envelope construction Driving warehouse and cold store design Modern warehouse and cold store developments using single envelope composite panel construction has a lot going for it, explains Tony Wall, MD of ISD Solutions. With smart design, expert delivery and proven know-how, cost reductions of up to 20% can be achieved whilst delivering virtually airtight, high-performing buildings with low lifetime running costs.

The requirement for low cost, ultramodern and virtually airtight cold store and warehouse solutions has seen a step change in design and building practice with insulated composite panels and single envelope construction fast outpacing traditional building methods. With rising energy costs and ever tougher efficiency targets it’s hardly surprising. A traditional build by contrast will be more time consuming to construct and not particularly sustainable or thermally efficient when complete.

Build efficiency Single envelope warehouses and cold stores can be constructed around 20% faster than

The requirement for low cost, ultra-modern and virtually airtight cold store and warehouse solutions has seen a step change in design and building practice with insulated composite panels and single envelope construction fast outpacing traditional building methods.

traditional builds when using cold store specification composite roof and wall panels. The inherent strength and spanning characteristics of these materials, some spanning 15 metres or more, significantly reduce the requirement for secondary steelwork, representing a real cost saving.

Significant savings in build cost and maintenance Apart from requiring lower capital investment, a single envelope cold storage facility requires an estimated 30% fewer raw materials. It can also deliver significantly lower long-term running costs than a traditional build - due to increased thermal efficiency and air tightness of the envelope, reducing the need to run duplicate services for a ‘building within a building’.

Good for the environment Cold store spec single envelope design also achieves WRAP and BREEAM targets by using low carbon composite panels with a reduced ‘global warming potential’ (GWP). The thermal qualities of metalfaced composite

panels keep temperatures constant and virtually airtight, regulating heat loss and gains to reduce a building’s energy consumption.

Aldi’s new 52,000m2 distribution centre at Goldthorpe, designed to operate 24/7, 365 days a year is a good example. With air leakage measured at below 0.1m3 per hour, the building far exceeds 0.5m3 design guidelines set by the International Association for Cold Storage Construction. Environmental factors like these significantly improve carbon reporting too.

So there is certainly no stopping the popularity of composite insulated panels and single envelope construction in a range of commercial and industrial applications is only likely to increase. Technical and insulation qualities are improving too - witness Kingspan’s new IPN-QuadCore technology offering yet more thermal gains. But installation, design and manufacturing expertise remain crucial and choosing the right construction partner should be a key priority.

http://www.isd-solutions.co.uk/isd-divisions/special-projects-division

2018 [Month] 20xx 24 xx Construction UK Magazine - February

Specify CFA members and

Specifying a CFA member for your next flooring project could mean the difference between success — or a flooring failure. Most of the UK’s largest and best known Manufacturers, Distributors, Contractors and Consultants are CFA members — and for good reason.

• CFA members promote high standards, knowledge and expertise • Specifying CFA members will maximize your investment and minimize costly flooring failures • All members have to pass a vetting process

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28 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

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A new range of safety products Ockwells, a leading supplier of Temporary Site Protection and protective coverings for internal and external use in construction, house building and marine fit out, have recently developed a new range of safety products, designed to reduce the risk of injury on construction sites.

Ladder Hatches

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• Ockwells plasterboard letterboxes have been designed to post large plasterboard sheets or panel materials, such as demountable fall arrest systems, from lower to upper floors • This system takes away the need to carry heavy materials up ladders or stair openings, which may contravene manual handling regulations • Plasterboard letterboxes can also be used away from busy stairways to promote safe working practices and increase efficiency on site • Overall size: 1400mm x 175mm

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Britain’s only demountable container that can be built without tools, by two operatives in just 5 minutes!

In the rapidly expanding and fiercely competitive market of portable containers, national distributors QuickBuild have been successfully supplying demountable containers to the building industry for over ten years.

With depots in London and Devon, both branches of the company have recently relocated to new larger premises as QuickBuild expands in line with growing demand for their products.

The secret to the success of the company lies in the quality of the QuickBuild range. QuickBuild containers are built to the highest standard but they are still surprisingly simple to use.

The units are totally unique in that the only components used to fasten the whole container together are four spring clip pins.

Yet the containers remain very stable and resilient keeping the contents dry safe and

secure. Additional security measures can be fitted for greater peace of mind.

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For many years QuickBuild containers have proved popular within the construction industry, but increasingly For many years QuickBuild containers QuickBuild are have proved popular within the construction finding the flexibility in use of the units industry, but increasingly QuickBuild are makes them the finding the flexibility in use of the units makes ideal solution to them the ideal solution to storage problems in storage problems

almost any application, above or below ground particularly where space is an issue.

in almost any application, above or below ground particularly where space is an issue.

QuickBuild containers are produced in the standard sizes of 2.1 x 2.1 x 2.1 metres through to 6.1 metres in length, but with the option of connecting units side to side, or end to end, their versatility means they can meet virtually all requirements.

In addition bespoke Containers and Warehouses are made to order to your specifications, are available on request.

QuickBuild have produced a DVD demonstrating the unique construction method of their containers in real time. For a copy of the DVD or further information on the range of QuickBuild products please contact us 0207 473 2712 or fill in our simple enquiry form, Email info@quickbuild. uk.com or download The full Catalogue & DVD from our Website www. quickbuild. uk.com

[Month] 20xx xx Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 30

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News Stories

Ambitious developer HDD bolsters Birmingham team Development and investment specialist Simon Horan has joined a leading developer of retail led mixed-use schemes at its new Birmingham headquarters, it was announced today.

Simon has left Savills in Birmingham, where he led the residential development and investment team, to become business development director at Henry Davidson Developments (HDD).

The ambitious company has recently announced three other senior appointments with development director Alastair Robertson-Dunn, director Graeme Cosgrove, and project director Kevin Foster, all joining since it opened its Birmingham office.

He said: “Henry Davidson Developments has a very strong team and a reputation for delivering high quality neighbourhood centres, working hand in hand with local authorities, national housebuilders and other key stakeholders.

“The company’s recent move into Birmingham has widened its horizons and there are a huge number of exciting opportunities we wish to pursue. My role as business development director will be to use my knowledge of this very distinctive market, while utilizing my contacts at regional and national housebuilders to ensure that we are at the forefront of their thinking for the development of neighbourhood centres and other mixed use opportunities required through planning.”

He added: “Birmingham as well as the wider West Midlands is attracting major investment and HDD’s move into the city centre is a very shrewd move. Being located in the CBD of Britain’s second city is the right location to exploit these opportunities allowing us to engage efficiently with a plethora of national and

regional stakeholders. The company will benefit enormously from the contacts they make in the city.”

HDD’s new business drive will focus on Birmingham and the wider West Midlands, but also locations within a two-hour drive including the Chilterns, Oxfordshire, the South West and East Midlands, as well as select conurbations to the north to include Greater Manchester.

Simon joined Savills in Birmingham in 2005. Recent projects he has been involved in include the marketing and disposal of the University of Northampton campuses pending their move to the new Waterside Campus and the sale of Yew Tree Village, a residential led scheme to the south of Droitwich providing over 500 new homes plus a new district centre. He has also been involved in negotiations surrounding the Greenbelt release which will provide up to 6,000 new homes at the Langley Sustainable Urban Extension in Sutton Coldfield. His career has also included a spell at CBRE in Birmingham where he was brought in to create a new residential development department and Hampton’s International based in the Home Counties providing development consultancy advice to major institutions.

Originally from Windsor, Simon now lives in Hereford. He is married and has three children. He gained a RICS accredited degree in Estate Management at Southampton. Interests are focused largely on sport, including skiing, coaching rugby, and he still manages to play hockey periodically when time permits.

HDD has recently delivered major retail led mixed use developments across the UK, including Didcot in Oxfordshire, Newtown Leys at Milton Keynes, Hampton at Peterborough, and the final phase of Lawley Village in Telford.

Work starts on new affordable homes in Pollokshaws Glasgow-based construction firm CCG (Scotland) Ltd has started work on 42 energy- efficient affordable homes for social rent in Glasgow’s south side.

The off-site manufacturing specialist is working on behalf of Loretto Housing Association, a member of Wheatley Group, to build the new homes, consisting of a mix of flats, supported accommodation and houses.

The site, formerly occupied by the Shawbridge Street high-rise flats and a parade of nine shops, is situated within a short walking distance of Pollokshaws West Railway Station and Pollok Country Park.

Work is due to start in January and the homes will take around a year to complete.

Pollokshaws is one of eight areas of Glasgow earmarked as a priority for regeneration by Transforming Communities: Glasgow (TC:G) a strategic partnership between the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council and GHA. David Fletcher, Wheatley Group Director of Regeneration, said: “These modern, spacious, high-quality homes will make a big difference to the quality of life of the people who live there. It’s an exciting time for Pollokshaws.”

CCG will construct the new homes using a closed panel timber frame system that is manufactured in the firm’s bespoke ‘Off-

32 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

News Stories

Mick George Ltd Waste Management Contract The A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme recently marked its first anniversary, and great progress has been made to date, along the 21-mile route of this £1.5 billion Highways England scheme.

Site Manufacturing’ facility, CCG OSM, in Cambuslang.

Through a combination of the system’s design and specification, which offers enhanced thermal performance, and an ecological approach to construction, the Shawbridge Street project will be delivered to an Ecohomes ‘Very Good’ standard. This means that the whole-life performance of the development achieves a far greater environmental standard than one constructed using traditional methods.

Alastair Wylie, Chairman and CEO of CCG (Scotland) Ltd, said: “The Shawbridge Street project is one of many live examples of how CCG and Wheatley Group are working together to deliver on affordable housing targets across central Scotland.

“To provide homes that are more energy efficient is a key priority and CCG are pioneering this approach through sustainable construction methods.

“The use of our closed panel timber system will also reduce the impact of the development on the surrounding area with a much faster speed of build than by traditional methods. “This, met with our expert construction experience, will ensure a swift delivery whilst ensuring quality as we begin the installation of the superstructure in early 2018.”

As part of Wheatley Group and CCG’s strategic partnership in delivering community benefit initiatives, various training and job opportunities will be available as a direct result of the Shawbridge Street project including trade apprenticeships and training, site-based job roles as well as work placements and curriculum support.

The A14 Integrated Delivery Team (IDT), which comprises three joint ventures, between Costain-Skanska, Balfour Beatty-Carillion and Atkins-CH2M Design, is working on behalf of Highways England to deliver this new piece of improved highway. The work will relieve congestion, reduce accidents, connect communities and decrease journey times, with the new road on-course to open by the end of 2020.

The project team is committed to positive engagement with local communities, employing local workers and companies wherever possible. To that end, local business Mick George Ltd has been contracted to complete a significant proportion of work on the project, for which circa 1,000 locally-sourced staff members are employed, of which 150 have been recruited for this project alone.

Mick George’s principal services include earthworks, demolition, concrete & aggregate supply and waste management, most of which have been used within the improvement works.

The company is recognised as a positive presence in the waste management industry, with impressive growth figures and forecasts to reinforce this.

Following on from the recent announcement that the organisation has landed a lucrative £16 million contract for the supply of concrete for the main highway build, the Company has now been awarded a further £1million agreement for the exclusive supply of skip and waste management services.

With more than a quarter of the project’s main construction work now complete, owing thanks to the 2,200-strong labour force that has completed a total of 3 million hours worked to date, as you would imagine, there is a considerable volume of differing construction, trade and general waste materials being produced.

The project is proactively looking at ways to minimise the impact of the scheme,

especially those that will positively influence environmentally.

David Bray, Highways England’s A14 Project Director stated: ‘’We’ve been using innovative ways of working to speed up construction, and we’ve done this while looking after the environment. This is evident in our drive to reduce and reuse our waste.’’

As with the supply of concrete materials, the decision to award a local supplier with the waste management contract, drastically reduces the number of vehicle movements and distance travelled along routes throughout the counties road infrastructure, consequently improving the project’s green credentials.

Alongside this benefit, Mick George Ltd has committed to provide complimentary containers for all waste metal materials produced, charging only for the haulage.

Any proceeds gained from the sale of the recycled metals will go back to the scheme to become part of the A14 Community Fund, which supports local community projects.

Such eco-friendly practices are not in isolation. The project’s electricity requirement is coming from 100% renewable energy and solar powered lighting towers are also being utilised, which should save in excess of £23,000 and 97.5 tonnes of CO2 emissions.

Michael George, Contracts Director of Mick George Ltd commented: ‘’The A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme has been long overdue and we are extremely excited about playing a key role in the scheme’s development and delivery. It is fantastic that Highways England recognise the strategic benefits of using local suppliers, adding significant value and benefits to the wider local economy and communities.’’

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 33

JCB Alert Tower – Innovative, wireless alarm technology VPS Site Security, the award-winning company that protects construction sites, people, property and assets on a temporary or emergency basis, has launched its latest innovation, the JCB Alert Tower – the most flexible, easily deployable alarm tower in its range.

Simple to transport and installed in minutes, the JCB Alert Tower provides a mobile, wireless, video-verified alarm with beam detectors which can be used as a stand-alone system, or seamlessly integrated with other VPS Site Security products, providing a comprehensive solution to protect vacant property, construction or remote sites. With a range of up to 14m in daylight and 12m at night-time, in addition the Alert Tower can be easily fitted with additional security, siren and safety systems to provide a bespoke customer solution.

Housed in a bright, robust, bespoke design, packed with state of the art technologies, this entry level tower introduces game-changing flexibility for areas, inside or out, where there is no surrounding infrastructure.

“The JCB Alert Tower has been designed in response to our customers request for an easy to maneouvre, easy to deploy solution that offers state of the art, temporary security which can be easily tailored to client needs at an affordable price,” explains Peter Lalor, Managing Director of VPS Site Security.

Deliberately housed in bright yellow casing to provide an on-site deterrent, the JCB Alert Tower contains the VPS Alert Cam, a state of the art, Peter Lalor armoured, video verified PIR camera system.

On trigger the Alert Cam captures a 10 second full colour video clip which is automatically transferred to the VPS Monitoring Centre for verification. The camera is self-powered by a 2-year battery, is contained in a waterproof casing and utilises infrared illumination. The camera deploys GPRS RF wireless communications enabling installation almost anywhere.

“The JCB Alert Tower is a truly versatile solution for securing building sites or remote locations that can be installed in minutes and fits in the back of a transit van. It seamlessly integrates with our other site security solutions including our award winning Smart Tower and recently launched Fire Alert.” Peter Lalor concludes.

VPS Site Security

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34 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

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News Stories

Goole Academy renovation completed by Britcon Building and engineering company, Britcon has completed major refurbishment works for Goole Academy high school.

The project, valued at close to £1m, was awarded to Britcon by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) working with Arcadis LLP. It is part of the Government’s £4.4 billion Priority School Building Programme which is rebuilding or refurbishing those school buildings in the very worst condition across the country.

Britcon has replaced all drainage around the complex of buildings on Centenary Road originally built in the early 1900’s.

It has also completed major external works which include new hard and soft landscaping including an extensive new Multi Use Games Area (MUGA), roads, paving, planting and irrigation and fixtures such as lighting.

John Whitmore, Director at Britcon, said, “The project was complex in that we have to replace critical facilities whist in a live school environment where over 1000 pupils and teaching staff are circulating. The Academy has a listed element and due to the age of the buildings the draining needed renewing.

The external works also provide for a more productive environment with new class leading sports facilities and enhanced wayfinding.”

Britcon has extensive expertise in the education sector. As well as the Goole Academy it has completed major building and refurbishment projects for Royds Hall School in Huddersfield, Roundhay Primary School in Leeds and Ward Green School in Barnsley Other projects include the University of York, University of Bradford, University of Huddersfield and Queen Ethelberga’s Collegiate.

As a business Britcon also actively engages with all the Education establishments with whom it works to support learning practices in the construction sector, setting coursework around its projects, and providing educational site visits and placement opportunities.

Established for more than 26 years, Britcon is £50 million turnover business headquartered in Scunthorpe and directly employs 90 people on its project sites across the UK. It is currently listed by the London Stock Exchange in its latest report of ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Europe’.

The Academy has a listed element and due to the age of the buildings the draining needed renewing. The external works also provide for a more productive environment with new class leading sports facilities and enhanced wayfinding.”

Construction scholars present evidence of the changing landscape of the industry Implementing innovation and delivering new technologies were the topics of focus at the Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) scholarship presentation last night.

George Holder from Costain and Alex Stephens from Bouygues UK were awarded the Sir Ian Dixon Scholarship (SID) to produce and present findings to benefit the construction industry, themselves and their company.

The scholarship, delivered by the CIOB in partnership with the Worshipful Company of Constructors, is a £3,000 one-year research fund focusing on any area of construction management with support from a company mentor.

George Holder, Costain, focused his project on innovation management, a relatively new and yet vital concept to the construction industry. The research examined the current use of innovation management standards and the role that these standards could play in improving how projects are delivered. The findings showed that standards are critical when creating an environment to support innovation and organisations benefit from

36 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

implementing them.

Innovation has led to the use of new technologies in the construction industry, an area that Alex Stephens chose to research for the year. His project looked at the use of additive manufacturing technologies (technologies which build 3D objects by adding layer-upon-layer of material) in construction through literature review and case studies. More demanding construction programmes are driving the industry to seek alternative methods to build and his findings show that these new technologies can produce complex geometries at a relatively low cost compared to conventional processes.

“These research projects reflect the changing landscape of construction as we learn to imagine, invent and implement new ways of working and building,” said Bob Heathfield, Past President of the CIOB and chair of the SID Scholarship Panel.

“We need to continue, as an industry, to be forward thinking. We need to make space for new ideas and innovations to streamline our processes and improve the quality of the built environment.”

HIGH-SPEC BRIDGE FOR LUXURY APARTMENTS IN CHELSE

HIGH-SPEC BRIDGE FOR LUXURY APARTMENTS IN CHELSEA CTS Bridges provided a statement bridge to complete the hard landscaping around the luxury apartments at Chelsea Creek for developer Berkeley St George.

The 24m long bridge comprises a deceptively simple, elegant concept incorporating acrylic rods into the painted steel frame at close centres which, when lit from their base, provide an illuminated enclosure, while a stripped down secondary internal handrail detailing waslandscaping required to house the lighting To complete the hard around the Chelsea Creek luxury apartment development, London provides pedestrian restraint. rods and conceal their power supply and driver bridge. developer, Berkeley St George needed a statement units discreetly. Precision fabrication was CTS Bridges were appointed to undertake needed to realise this ambition.

The 24m long bridge comprises a deceptively simple, elegant concept incorporating acrylic rods into the design, manufacture and installation and

painted steel frame at close centres which, when lit from their base, provide an illuminated enclosure, wh offered different structural options to best The secondary final result isinternal a stunning illuminated stripped down handrail provides pedestrian restraint. achieve the architectural intent, resulting bridge that provides a stylish focal point over in “hidden” structural supports to minimise the meandering waterway the Chelsea Creek beam depth. They worked closely with CTS Elite were appointed to undertake design, manufacture and installation and offered different structural op development.

Landscapes, the Principal Contractor, toto best achieve the architectural intent, resulting in “hidden” structural supports to minimise beam depth. T ensure all trades were coordinated to deliver a closely with Elite Landscapes, the Principal Contractor, to ensure all trades were coordinated to worked If you need a bridge as a focal point in your successful scheme.

Email: enquiries@ctsbridges.co.uk deliver a successful scheme. scheme contact CTS Bridges for a full design, Website: www.ctsbridges.co.uk build and installation package.

To achieve the desired simple lines, careful

To achieve the desired simple lines, careful detailing was required to house the lighting rods and conceal power supply and driver units discreetly. Precision fabrication was needed to realise this ambition.

The final result is a stunning illuminated bridge that provides a stylish focal point over the meandering waterway the Chelsea Creek development.

If you need a bridge as a focal point in your scheme contact CTS Bridges for a full design, build and installation package.

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Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 37

News Stories

Industry Experts Join Housing Minister to Promote Offsite Manufacturing A group of senior construction industry specialists met with Scotland’s Housing Minister Kevin Stewart MSP (Wednesday 10 January) to discuss how they can work with the Scottish Government to grow the unique offsite manufacturing design and skill base in Scotland.

Offsite Solutions Scotland (OSS) is a coalition of ten forward thinking construction manufactures with an ambition to grow scale through collaboration.

The Scottish Government has an incredibly ambitious target of delivering 50,000 affordable homes by 2021 and it is predicted that 295,000 houses per year until 2037 require to be built in the UK. OSS Chairman and Director of Glasgowbased construction firm CCG (Scotland) Ltd, Calum Murray, said: “We were delighted that the Minister was able to join us and give us his support as we work together to position Scotland as the centre of excellence for offsite manufacturing. The Scottish Government has an incredibly ambitious target of delivering 50,000 affordable homes by 2021 and it is predicted that 295,000 houses per year until 2037 require to be built in the UK. To achieve that, it is necessary to significantly increase the average annual output of affordable homes and the only way that is going to be

achieved is by embracing and making full use of offsite manufacturing techniques.

“Offsite manufacturing offers so many advantages – most notably the fact that homes can be built faster and to higher sustainability standard when compared with traditional construction methods, making them more cost effective to build and construct, as well as live in. The fabric first approach of OSS responds to this with higher levels of insulation reducing energy use through conservation and factory precision reducing waste materials by up to 40%. Building offsite saves time and money, and it also ensures a high quality finished product and Scotland is very well placed to take advantage of this market.

In addition, OSS can embrace change and the emergence of digitisation, the “Fourth Industrial Revolution”, with computer aided design and computer aided manufacture utilised as standard in their businesses.”

OSS has a combined manufacturing output of £170million employing more than 1,000 people. Partners used the meeting to highlight their focus on the premanufacture of the components required to build sustainable housing solutions from a truly renewable carbon capturing resource, wood. OSS sees the many advantages of using offsite methods of construction over traditional housebuilding techniques and considerable opportunity to utilise the expertise Scotland has developed both at home and across the rest of the UK. Conducting activities under a factory roof, offsite construction offers a clean working environment with a focus

38 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

on improving productivity, enhancing quality and facilitating diversification in the workforce. This is considered necessary to tackle head on the skills and productivity challenges of our time and the systemic housing shortage. These houses all need to meet future regulatory requirements given the challenge of fuel poverty and the environment impact buildings have accounting for about half of all our extracted materials and energy consumption.

OSS is a unique partnership formed to enable the industry to collaborate on technical projects, skills development and innovation around offsite manufacturing.

The ten organisations collaborating have a track record in their own right, they have invested in people and facilities over the years, some over decades, to have a combined knowledge base which is an invaluable asset to Scotland.

Combining their collective knowledge and infrastructure with a culture of collaboration, not normal in the construction sector, offers a new approach to the delivery of the built environment defined by its social, economic and environmental value.

In addition to CCG (Scotland) Ltd, members include Alexander Timber Design, Carbon Dynamic, Mactaggart & Mickel, Makar, Norscot, Oregon Timber Systems, Robertson, Scotframe and Stewart Milne Timber Systems. The partnership is supported by Edinburgh Napier University, the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre and Scottish Enterprise.

RINNAI ANNOUNCES PRICE HOLD FOR SECOND YEAR, OTHERS HAVE PRICE INCREASES OF UPTO 5% REPORTED…..

RINNAI HOT WATER – INSTANT, CONTINUOUS, LIMITLESS AND SENSIBLY ECONOMIC FOR EVERY TYPE OF COMMERCIAL SITE Rinnai, the UK leader in hot water heating units and systems for all commercial and residential sites, has announced that it is holding its price for the second year in succession - in the face of reports that some other manufacturers are increasing prices by almost 5%.

Two other manufacturers are reportedly ghosting through price rises of between 3 4.5%.

“We see no justification whatsoever to submit price increases and seek to stabilise market prices for our customers. We offer what we believe is a first-class product proposition of energy efficiency, economic cost in use, limitless hot water on demand where you only pay for the fuel you use to heat the water, completely compliant with all existing or pending UK and EU legislation”, says Rinnai Managing Director Tony Gittings.

The Rinnai natural gas or LPG water heaters guarantee a limitless supply of accurately temperature controlled safe and useable hot water. The Rinnai range delivers energy saving performance and low greenhouse emissions through new low NOx burner technology.

All units and systems can be installed as stand-alone or manifolded to provide unlimited hot water for the largest of all commercial sites such as big hotels, busy gyms, high rise offices etc.

Water temperature is and can be pre-set through easy-to-use built in digital controls, eliminating the risk of scalding.

The newly updated Rinnai Infinity range is designed for use directly off the mains, with no need for large, ungainly and energy inefficient storage vessels.

weatherproof models have forced exhaust which enables them to be compact, saving both floor and wall space.

Rinnai’s unique condensing technology incorporates two heat exchangers to achieve optimum water heating generated from every cubic metre of Natural Gas or LPG. The condensing process delivers up to 95% thermal efficiency, which translates to significant energy savings when compared to standard on-demand water heaters or conventional stored systems.

water storage vessel (stainless steel 300L, 500L or 800L glass lined steel) along with necessary valves and one primary pump with valves and one unvented kit. Add to this an expansion vessel of either 50L or 80L capacity, two drain cocks, one tundish, a temperature and pressure relief valve along with a control thermostat, an overheat thermostat and the kit is complete. Common header flue systems are also available to further stream line the installation.

Rinnai Gas Hot Water Storage Pack represents the best value-for-money solution on the market today with everything delivered direct to site in one complete package

Typical applications for the commercial ranges include cafés, children’s nurseries, factories and offices, laundries with top loader machines, hotels and restaurants, sports clubs, shower blocks in caravan parks – and many more.

The pack consists of up to five heavy duty water heaters with an equal number of flue kits (for internal heaters) or an equal number of pipe cover boxes (for external models) and sufficient valve packs.

Also included is one hot

Rinnai continuous flow hot water systems deliver on all levels in a cost effective and practical manner. Easy to install and operate the units provide a flexible and energy efficient solution for domestic applications and for all sectors of business and industry.

Rinnai Managing Director Tony Gittings

For more information on the RINNAI product range visit www.rinnaiuk.com

Rinnai Heavy Duty water heaters are high efficiency gas continuous flow water heaters with outputs up to 69kW. Incoming water temperatures of up to 60°C are accepted, making the HD50i suitable for secondary return systems. Water can be delivered at high volume with minimum gas consumption.

All models have full electronic ignition with no pilot light and operate on demand only, consuming no gas when not in use.

All Rinnai internal HDC condensing continuous flow water heaters, are room-sealed, power flue appliances, while the external

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 39

Ecophon offers new FocusTM on acoustic design The spectrum of sounds that surround us in the workplace, and the different acoustic characteristics created by the way we use interior spaces can be as varied as the colours of the rainbow; a fact highlighted by the timely update of Ecophon’s comprehensive Focus range. Along with an even greater choice of colours and improvements to installation and transition details, the acoustic ceiling family now also includes a new and innovative solution – Ecophon Focus EzTM. Ecophon recognises the way in which the senses of sight and hearing are inextricably linked in creating people’s perception of their surroundings; and therefore the necessity of considering both together when designing interiors. Through the combined offering of vibrant colour and outstanding acoustic control, the essence of Focus is in delighting the eyes while soothing the mind.

As Ecophon’s most comprehensive product family, Focus was created with people and their activities in mind. Focus offers excellent acoustic properties and appealing looks giving the opportunity for visual flair and flexibility so

almost any project need can be met. But before the solution can be implemented, it is important to truly understand the acoustic challenge of the room itself.

Ecophon call this approach ‘activity based acoustic design’, a concept that considers three main influences: Activity, People & Space.

The designer is invited to evaluate the noise, which could be generated by occupants from phone calls, meetings, lessons or perhaps a performance; as well as the personality, age range and other attributes of the occupants.

These factors must then be considered alongside the size, location and materials forming the space.

Analysis completed, the appropriate acoustic treatment is utilised to control the reflection, propagation and reverberation of sound within the space, helping to create acoustic comfort as well as visual interest.

The revised FocusTM family of products encompasses an expanded range of 16 AkutexTM colours, inspired by the tones found in nature.

There are 11 standard sizes, 10 edge details and six innovative design solutions addressing FocusTM offers interior designers, locations such as level architects and acousticians an unrivalled changes and wall transitions. toolbox for creating an activity-based

solution to a building’s audible performance, combined with visual impact.

New to the family is Ecophon FocusTM

2018 [Month] 20xx 40 xx Construction UK Magazine - February

Ez: an asymmetric tegular tile, which can be installed in different orientations to create angles and forms across the ceiling. Ez also integrates easily with any of the three different lighting solutions available to enhance a ceiling installation.

FocusTM offers interior designers, architects and acousticians an unrivalled toolbox for creating an activity-based solution to a building’s audible performance, combined with visual impact.

For more information on the FocusTM range, visit www.ecophon.com/uk Ecophon TV – You Tube https://www.youtube.com/user/EcophonTV @ecophon - Twitter https://twitter.com/ecophon Ecophon – Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Ecophon Saint-Gobain Ecophon AB – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/ ecophon Saint-Gobain Ecophon Old Brick Kiln Ramsdell Tadley RG26 5PP Tel: +44 1256 850977 Fax: +44 1256 851550 info@ecophon.co.uk

Time to focus on visual acoustics

Photographer: Left: Hans Georg Esch, Right: Kimmo Levonen/SMOY

Ecophon Focus™ our most comprehensive product family, offering outstanding acoustics and design flexibility. As the newest member of the family, we are pleased to introduce Focus™ Ez, which allows creation of a unique ‘3D’ ceiling design that plays with angles and form.

The Ecophon Focus family includes: • 10 Edge details • 11 Sizes • 16 Colours • 3 Lighting solutions • 6 Unique additional solutions for transitions and level changes

For further information or for acoustic advice for your internal space, please contact our specification team on 01256 855280, alternatively email specification@ecophon.co.uk or visit www.ecophon.com/uk

Are You Working at Height Safely?

Work environments are rapidly developing, and it is imperative to reinforce basic knowledge on safe working at height. Figures from the Health and Safety Executive show that falls from height remain the single biggest cause of fatality on construction sites – are you working at height safely?

FACT: working at height constitutes any work taking place on, below, or above ground level where there is a risk of personal injury through falling or from falling objects.

Training Training is the first step to ensure that your workforce is protected whilst working at height. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 state that as an employer or duty holder, you are required to ensure that all employees have access to work at height equipment that reflects the requirements and regulations, including training in the use of equipment.

Work at height training courses are designed to help you and your team comply with relevant regulations and at the end of a training course, you should be confident to: 1. Undertake a working at height risk assessment; 2. Use access equipment safely; 3. Reduce or eliminate risk of falls from height; 4. Ensure compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005; 5. Carry out an effective rescue.

Fall Protection Systems Current Health and Safety legislation dictates that a Fall Protection System should be in place when employees or contractors carry out work at height (2m or higher). There are many fall protection systems available, here we discuss the benefits of Heightsafe Systems most popular products.

- Guardrails provide a building with adequate collective edge protection, meaning employees or contractors can move around the roof freely without the potential of entering a fall risk area; - Safety Lines are compatible with nearly every roof build up, meaning the system is a first choice when it comes to preventing falls whilst completing maintenance works;

- Walkways are a bespoke solution to combat potentially dangerous roof surfaces, removing the hazard of trips, slips and falls from height.

your insurance, but could also lead to prosecution, should an employee, contractor or even trespasser suffer any injuries.

Safe Equipment Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a vital part of protecting you against health and safety risks at work and includes items such as safety harnesses and lanyards – legally required when using most Fall Protection Systems such as safety lines and walkways when working at height. As an employer it is your duty to ensure that employees are fully trained when it comes to selecting the correct PPE for the job, as well as regular testing and maintenance of the equipment.

To keep on top of safety at height, we recommend that you: - appoint a trusted health and safety partner, to give expert advice; - ensure employees are trained; - keep work areas safe; - get your work at height assets and PPE tested regularly.

Inspection, Testing and Compliance It is important that your Fall Protection Systems and PPE are compliant with regulations, and are tested and certified regularly by a qualified professional. If your systems are not visibly tagged and in compliance, it will not only invalidate

42 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

Heightsafe Systems are happy to offer free advice on all work at height installation, testing, legislation and certification with roof, gutter and all other building maintenance work. Our team are fully trained and can provide you with cost effective services. heightsafesystems.com +44 (0)20 3819 7199 info@heightsafesystems.com

Your Specialist Work at Height Partners Working with some of the UK’s many blue chip brands like Whitbread PLC, Selfridges, John Lewis and XPO, Heightsafe put safety above all else to help clients protect their employees and contractors whilst working at height. Along with industry standard accreditations and certifications Heightsafe’s expertise ensure that your critical and potentially hazardous environments are work at height compliant, with technology supported customer service back up.

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News Stories

Wienerberger wins Travis Perkins’ supplier of the year award Wienerberger, the UK’s leading provider of wall, roof and landscaping solutions, kick starts the New Year by winning the prestigious Supplier of the Year for 2017 award from the UK’s largest building merchant, Travis Perkins.

Determined by a variety of factors, including sales growth, successful new customer ranging, a strong charity partnership and more, Wienerberger was shortlisted from over a thousand other suppliers to just 32 top performing companies, before receiving the most votes from the Travis Perkins senior management teams.

Throughout 2017, Wienerberger demonstrated exceptional sales performance, maintained a high level of customer service through friendly and polite professionalism, and launched an initiative resulting in double-digit sales growth for Travis Perkins branches. This award highlights Wienerberger’s ongoing commitment and dedication across all areas of the business, showcasing the effectiveness of team members throughout the company and the unity in which they operate.

Paul Hodgkinson, National Accounts Director at Wienerberger, said: “Receiving this award is a fantastic recognition for everyone at Wienerberger.

It was a real team effort across all areas of the business as everyone played an important role. I’m looking forward to seeing Wienerberger develop even further over the upcoming year.”

Keith Wright, Category Director at Travis Perkins, commented:

“I am delighted that Wienerberger has been recognised as Travis Perkins’ supplier of the year for 2017. Their focus on improving our proposition for customers has been a real driver in our joint success. Wienerberger have also demonstrated a real commitment to improving the way their products are packaged and delivered into our business and have been a strong supporter of our charity efforts with Macmillan.”

NFB: Withholding subcontractor payments is unethical Members of the National Federation of Builders (NFB) consistently report that public sector clients, including central government, do not pay on time. As regional contractors and SMEs, a large proportion of projects these members fulfil are subcontracted via larger construction companies. Some main contractors impose 120-day payment terms, with £10.5 billion withheld in retention payments and around £22 billion in annual SME turnover is paid late.

If we are to recruit apprentices and deliver world class building and infrastructure projects, the industry needs to reduce retentions and late payment. The Government, and all construction clients, need to pay on time and take a long-term

view on the health of those businesses its practices affect.

The Construction Act requires public bodies to pay undisputed invoices within 30 days and there is an adjudication process in place. However, many companies do not use it for fear of jeopardising future work.

Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “Late payment and retention of funds remain a problem for UK construction companies, despite widespread recognition that these practices are unacceptable.

The NFB and its members provide a clear voice and act on those words. One of our members, Colmore Tang Construction, is offering to pay subcontractors affected by the demise of Carillion earlier than their

contract terms in order to provide some stability. This is the kind of collaborative leadership the industry needs and represents the best construction has to offer.”

In 2007, the National Federation of Builders (NFB) was one of the first organisations to take issue with how the Government’s approach to procurement and frameworks put SMEs and regional contractors at a distinct disadvantage.

We continue to work with central Government and local authorities to yield results for SMEs, regional contractors and local economies, without a reduction in quality.

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 45

News Stories

McLaren Construction appointed to deliver £90m Ashford Designer Outlet expansion McArthurGlen have confirmed that McLaren Construction has been appointed on the £90 million Phase II extension of Ashford Designer Outlet ahead of building works commencing later this month. The expansion forms part of the Group’s 1.6 million sq ft active development pipline coming through over the next three years across Europe and Canada.

McArthurGlen first announced plans to expand the Ashford Designer Outlet in 2014 and secured planning approval from Ashford Borough Council in September 2015. During that time the centre’s popularity has continued to soar and it now welcomes over 3.6 million guests every year.

Scheduled to open in Autumn 2019, the 100,000 sq ft extension will deliver up to 50 additional premium and luxury brands, a new food piazza, an events space and a redesigned children’s play area, as well as 725 new parking spaces. The expansion will also include the installation of

Europe’s largest living wall structure and many of the stores in the new phase will be clad in tens of thousands of plants, all stacked vertically.

Claude Hargreave, Regional Development Director at McArthurGlen, said: “After four years of meticulous planning we’re incredibly excited to confirm that building works on the extension will commence this January. Over the next 18 months we will be investing £90 million into the centre to elevate the whole shopping experience for our guests and the retail environment for our brand partners.

Once the extension is complete Ashford Designer Outlet will become one of the UK’s flagship fashion, food and homeware destinations, with over 130 stores, restaurants and cafes.“ This will be Ashford Designer Outlet’s first extension since opening in 2000.

The existing 185,000 sq ft. centre, which has the world’s largest tented retail structure, was designed by the renowned architect Richard Rogers

46 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

who is famous for the Lloyd’s building in London as well as The O2 Arena.

Several new and exciting premium and luxury brands are already signed up to join Ashford Designer Outlet when it opens next year. Adrian Nelson, McArthurGlen’s Group Leasing and Brand Development Director said: “We are committed to expanding the extensive range of brands already on offer. In the past three years alone we’ve introduced highly sought-after brands including Calvin Klein, All Saints, Diesel, Cath Kidston, Osprey London, Jack Wills, Timberland and Abercrombie & Fitch.”

The expansion of Ashford Designer Outlet is one of eight major projects highlighted by Ashford Borough Council and Kent County Council as key employment and economic drivers in the development of the area. Generating over 500 jobs, the expansion will also include a complimentary shuttle bus linking the outlet, the town centre and the

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international train station at weekends and during the school holidays.

McArthurGlen is also providing funds for the enhancement of pedestrian and cycle routes from the station.

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, said: “We are pleased to hear McArthurGlen announce its building contractor and confirm that building works will commence shortly.

The expansion of the Designer Outlet will transform it into one of the UK’s premier outlet centres, enhancing the shopping experience and providing a complementary offer to our town centre.

This news illustrates the confidence that major investors have in Ashford and the borough’s future. It is clear that we are gaining a growing reputation as a town attracting inward investment and highcalibre, quality brands.”

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 47

NEMEC - VERTICAL CASCADE GARDENS Nemec are one of the most successful Living Wall companies in Europe and provide closed cascade, hydroponic and semi hydroponic systems for internal and external use.

Established in 1996 by Josef Nemec, the company trades in 14 countries constructing more than 250 high quality systems for the corporate, commercial and residential sectors.

The company specialises in vertical greening products, its portfolio includes internal and external living walls, living screens, free standing units, living art panels, moss panels and urban screens.

See www.nemec.co.uk for more details.

Management Nemec monitor all their living wall systems remotely and believe in close management and attention to detail. All external systems are fitted with remote technology that allows for wireless management of the irrigation system and on internal systems the same technology monitors temperature and light levels across the system.

Lighting “Lighting is so often overlooked “says director Benjamin Raich, we have been called into many failing wall situations and asked to resolve the problems and almost always it is due to either lighting or irrigation management.

Internal vegetation systems require correct

supplementary lighting. Natural light, regardless of levels is insufficient, glass filters out a percentage of the natural light spectrum crucial for long term sustainability, foliar or floral growth.

Nemec UK aims to produce the most sustainable system possible so offers a full design and species selection service also considering the requirements for irrigation, lighting and biophilic function.

“Providing the right system is more important than simply installing a living wall” says Dave Austen, UK consultant for the company. “we invest in relationships and strive to install and manage the most effective system possible, a wall should be sustainable and for this to happen the plant selection is vital and the management of water and light critical.

Our systems are designed to remove VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and PMs (small airborne particles often associated with breathing disorders) We use plant material that can help to improve internal and external environments without compromising the aesthetic performance of the system, says Dave, some systems use plants that require little input but which do not help with emission and HAP (hazardous airborne pollutants) reduction, some of these incompatible in highly polluted urban environments and can lead to regional failure.

The System Nemec have pioneered the patented cascade system that provides a closed trough system with easy fix and secure potted plants. The system requires no catchment or recirculation technology and is totally automated with the option for remote monitoring.

‘We have spent many years perfecting species

choices, planting and substrate management and believe now we have one of the most sustainable products on the market’. Says Benjamin.

All living wall systems are maintained at 2 week intervals for the first 3 months and then every 2-4 for the ongoing programs. Nemec manage all their maintenance programs internally and local production ensures species continuity is maintained.

‘There are too many systems installed without maintenance packages being agreed’, says Dave Austen. If a living system is not regularly services, species fail or get swamped by fast growing elements and the design will be affected and in some cases the integrity of the system will be compromised.

With the investment in the system, maintenance should always be factored in and at Nemec, a management package for 2 years on all wall systems is strongly recommended The company uses local suppliers where possible and have internal and external plant production within the UK to ensure species are suitable and readily available.

Fire and Performance The system uses recycled HDPE and carries a fire management certificate that meets the demands of European regulations. This is enhanced by the systems nature of holding water in the troughs and never being dry.

We will design a brief that use species to aid internal or external environments and the people that use these spaces. This does not make the product more expensive but it does make it perform better on several levels that should be factored into the decision when selecting a system or a supplier.

Nemec have recently completed the largest living wall system in the Czech Republic comprising 1200sqm of external system. The AFI Europe building, also known as the Butterfly is in the prestigious Prague 8 district and provides 23,522 sqm of corporate office space.

The project required the manufacture of over 1500 living wall tiles, 41,000 pre-established plants and a complex multi feed irrigation system. The project took 4 months to complete and comprises a range of grasses and hardy perennial species designed to perform all year round.

The company have two regional offices in the Czech Republic and are based in UK with an office and showroom close to Bristol.

48 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

Products Living Art Panels Nemec produce a set of high aesthetic feature art panels that use the standard cascade potted system and can be used to enhance an office, foyer or reception area. These panels are bespoke and can be used to enhance brand identity and if required can include company logos and names.

Urban Screens The pavement screens incorporate 16 sqm of plant design to target heavily polluted areas of the urban environment. The systems are designed to absorb high levels of emissions, carbons and HAP elements whilst providing seating areas. The units incorporate rain water harvesting and solar cells for powering the lighting and irrigation systems. There are air and USB charging points for smart technology and side banners for information and advertising.

“I can see these on every street in London”says Dave Austen. The concept is wonderful and the result is a multi-functional, permanent or mobile unit that can provide sanctuary and true local environmental benefit. The system is maintained like a wall system with a management package and remote monitoring software.

Free Standing Units Designed for open plan offices, the Nemec free standing units can be built to any size and can incorporate lighting plans and corporate elements all managed under a frequent remedial package which will include watering and plant maintenance services.

Lease Hire Option We are happy to discuss lease and rental arrangements for living wall systems for events or more permanent displays. We offer a full design, installation, management and de commissioning package for these systems.

“We have agreements for as little as 10 days and as long as 5 years” says Dave Austen, we manage the system as we would a permanent installation to ensure the wall is always pristine and in fantastic condition.

CPDs Living Walls are becoming more popular and there are numerous systems on the market, but choosing the right system is essential for a project to be successful in years to come.

Nemec Cascade Garden decided to offer architects and designers a FREE comprehensive morning or lunchtime CPD seminar. We will cover all essential aspects of Living Walls from preparation to irrigation. “

BRITISH SUMMER TIME EVENT, HYDE PARK 2017

Please feel free to contact us for more information tel: +44 (0) 1934 316402 email: dave@nemec.co.uk website: www.nemec.co.uk

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 49

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The Low Energy Buildings you’ve always wanted…

Intrigued by the claims of this ‘full service’ company we decided to investigate their approach a little more.

Value Engineering: First, we wanted to know what was meant by ‘Value Engineering’ (VE). Professor Dr. Michael Benfield, their CEO, explained: “By focusing on the various ‘functions’ of a client’s building and its components, we aim to identify and remove unnecessary costs while at the same time maintaining - even enhancing - its performance.”

Comprehensive Knowledge: This approach blends their extensive and rather unique knowledge of all forms of timber structure, building science, regulations, and state of the art products with individual client’s design concepts. “For us, value engineering starts with environmental planning and regulatory impositions as part of our analytical and technical design processes.” he explained. “These feed our drive for, and commitment to, sustainable development through into waste reduction, recycling and lean manufacture. It embraces a ‘Pride in the Job’ and a ‘Right First Time’ mentality that is applied to all our Design & Build (D&B) operations.”

Focus on End User: Paying attention to end user demands is central to Benfield ATT’s approach (the ATT stands for Advanced Timber Technologies, by the way). They believe it enables them to deliver highly effective, quality buildings for projects large & small. This includes providing solutions for difficult to develop sites, like soft ground, steeply sloping land and potential flood plain areas.

Product Selection: Self-evidently, to value engineer design & build solutions, the selection of the most appropriate products needs the services and methods used to be an integral part of the process. Working closely with architects, building designers, engineers and quantity surveyors, BACA Architects - UK’s 1st Amphibious House - Grand Designs – Benfield ATT Benfield ATT helps select and specify those which are most functionally appropriate and cost effective. In turn this encourages the delivery of high quality products to be protected, and results in saving time for on-site build operations. All of this, they claim, reduces costs, enhances client’s projects and helps to make them one of the most competitive full service timber engineering design and build firms in the UK. Fabric First: In the current business climate it is perhaps not surprising to find Efficiency, Performance & Cost Effectiveness to be included in their key current considerations. This is most clearly evidenced in their ‘Fabric First” approach to designing really effective building envelopes. “There is a crucial need to deliver highly energy efficient structures with optimum levels of insulation, minimal thermal transmission and appropriate airtightness for floors, walls, roofs, windows and doors.” explains Prof Benfield. Unsurprising, therefore, that in their drive toward Zero Carbon and minimal heating requirements, they offer factory Insulated Panels, SIP’s, Green Oak, Post & Beam, Glulam and Hybrid structures all orientated to achieve what was Code for Sustainable Homes levels 4, 5, 6 and Passivhaus Standards.

Specialist Builders’ Merchants: Potentially, the procurement of design specific components can create unforeseen difficulties, for example locating the source of supplies, avoiding delays in delivery lead times, quality assurance, and securing ‘best value’ products and terms. Here Benfield ATT’s long established connections, access and volume buying capabilities as manufacturers and selective builder’s merchants, enables them to secure and supply such requirements in the most timely and competitive manner as part of their value engineered, design & build methodology.

Catalysts for Quality: “We believe that our approach to helping you create the ‘Low Energy Buildings you’ve always dreamed of …’ is distinctly different” says Benfield. “We welcome collaboration with other construction professionals in our drive to achieve this.” In doing so, his company aims to help enhance the professional construction team of architects, other designers, engineers, quantity surveyors, contractors, house-builders, developers, et al, facilitating the delivery of the high quality buildings they and their clients both need and want. And, if end user clients like selfbuilders and home improvers lack any of these skills, to be the catalyst drawing in those that are most appropriate for each individual project. To compliment this they offer a selective part or full project management service.

Professional Partnerships: While they are happy to engage in ‘one off’ projects, Benfield ATT see the greatest benefits to industry and end user occupiers as coming from the establishment of long term ‘partnering’ style arrangements with other construction professionals. This can include Joint Venture arrangements for specific developments, which may be of interest to land owners and those who wish to fund, say, housing schemes, but lack the technical knowledge and industry experience necessary to make them successful. In such cases they believe that their comprehensive team approach can be highly valuable.

Contacts for Benfield ATT are: 5-6 Castle Way, Caldicot NP26 5PR 01291 437 050 info@BenfieldATT.uk www.BenfieldATT.uk

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 51

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Two-thirds of construction bosses can’t find a bricky or chippy, says FMB Two-thirds of those running small and medium-sized (SME) construction firms are struggling to hire bricklayers and carpenters as construction skills shortages hit a ‘record high’, according to the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Key results from the FMB’s latest State of Trade Survey, which is the only quarterly assessment of the UK-wide SME construction sector, include: • More than two-thirds (68%) of construction SMEs are struggling to hire bricklayers and 63% are struggling to hire carpenters and joiners – the highest figures since records began in 2008; • The number of firms reporting difficulties hiring plumbers and electricians (48%), plasterers (46%) and floorers (30%) also reached record highs; • Construction SME workloads grew at a slightly slower rate than in Q3 2017, but new enquiries and expected workloads slowed more sharply; expected workloads among those firms building new homes showed a negative net balance for the first time since 2013; • Fewer construction SMEs predict rising workloads in the coming three months, down from 41% in the previous quarter to 38% in Q4 2017;

• 87% of builders believe that material prices will rise in the next six months, up from 82% in the previous quarter; • Nearly two-thirds (61%) of construction SMEs expect salaries and wages to increase in the next six months.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Skills shortages are sky rocketing and it begs the question, who will build the new homes and infrastructure projects the Government is crying out for. The Government has set itself an ambitious target to build 300,000 homes every year in England alone. More than twothirds of construction SMEs are struggling to hire bricklayers which is one of the key trades in the building industry. This has increased by nearly 10% in just three months which points to a rapid worsening of an already dire situation. What’s more, nearly as many are facing difficulties hiring carpenters and joiners. These figures are the highest we’ve noted since records began a decade ago. As a result, the wages for these increasingly scarce skilled tradespeople continue to rise sharply; that’s a simple consequence of supply and demand. This, coupled with the fact that small construction firms continue to face significant material price increases, will inevitably squeeze their margins and put a brake on growth.”

Berry continued: “The Government must take account of the worsening construction

skills shortage with Brexit looming large on the horizon. The Prime Minister must ensure that the immigration system that replaces the free movement of people can take account of the particular needs of key sectors such as construction and house building.

Without skilled labour from the EU, the skills shortages we face would be considerably worse, and it is not in anyone’s best interest to pull the rug out from under the sector by introducing an inflexible and unresponsive immigration system. On the domestic front and in the longer term, to ensure we have an ample supply of skilled workers in the future, the Government must continue to work with industry to set the right framework in terms of T-Levels and apprenticeships.”

Berry concluded: “The silver lining to current skills shortages among construction SMEs is that the numerous tradespeople and professionals, who may find themselves out of work following the collapse of Carillion, have a ready supply of alternative employers.

The FMB is working with the Department for Work and Pensions and the Construction Industry Training Board to match-make ex-Carillion workers with small construction employers in need of skilled workers. We’re also working hard as an industry to re-home the 1,200 Carillion apprentices who are the innocent victims of the major contractor’s demise. It’s in everyone’s interests to ensure that these young people continue on their path to a rewarding career in construction.”

Construction UK Magazine - February 2018 53

Events

ECOBUILD 2018: THE EVENT SHAPED BY THE INDUSTRY ecobuild is returning to the ExCeL London in March 2018 and under the new ownership of Futurebuild Events Ltd, things are set to be very different. The event is being designed and built around the industry, bringing to life the latest technology, freshest thinking and most innovative materials.

The event is not only being shaped through comprehensive industry feedback, but also with direct input from leading industry influencers. These include Lynne Sullivan, Nathan Baker, Julie Hirigoyen, Darren Richards and Peter Murray, who are all members of the ecobuild Steering Group, which is helping to set the agenda for the event.

The CPD-accredited conference programme This year’s conference takes its lead from global environmental targets, with sessions reflecting the concerns of the built environment industry and formulating practical recommendations for action.

A number of key themes and focuses will run through the conference programme. Day

One begins with some of the most pressing global issues, delivering the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement and the New Urban Agenda. The session will be chaired by the former Labour Head of the Environmental Audit Committee, Joan Walley, and will feature keynote speaker, Paula Caballero, Global Director of the Climate Programme at the World Resources Institute – one of the driving forces behind the development of the SDGs.

demonstrations and information about natural building materials and techniques.

There will also be the Sustainable Product Showcase, where The Passivhaus Trust and the Alliance for Sustainable Building Products will present top products and materials.

ecobuild Sustainability Showcases Surrounding the conference arena will be the ecobuild sustainability showcases, home to the some of the most innovative solutions to the issues facing the built environment. The showcases will truly put sustainability at the heart of the event.

Among those is the Building Performance district, where attendees can explore the wellbeing agenda across new build, refurb and retrofit projects. Leading brands responsible for providing the envelope of buildings will showcase the latest construction materials, products and technologies.

They include a pioneering approach to turning waste into a valuable resource from architect and environmental activist, Duncan BakerBrown, and a Natural Building Products café where experts will be on hand to provide

Visitors can also hear from experts as part of the district’s seminar programme, sponsored

by Kingspan. Gwyn Roberts, New Homes and Communications Team Leader at BRE, will be leading a panel discussion on how to deliver quality homes on day one of the event. Joanne Wade, Chief Executive at the Association for the Conservation of Energy, will also be hosting a session – named “A genuinely lowcarbon housing stock: pipe-dream or industry blueprint?”, it will explore whether there are many barriers to transforming existing homes and if the UK is ready to renovate.

The futurebuild districts Surrounding this will be a series of futurebuild districts – each focusing on a distinct, critical segment of the built environment.

Other districts include District Energy, Infrastructure, Timber, Concrete, Offsite, Green & Blue Infrastructure and Energy & HVAC.

You can register for a free ticket at www.ecobuild.co.uk/register.

54 Construction UK Magazine - February 2018

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06-08 March 2018 / ExCeL, London

The future of the built environment is here

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Presenting the futurebuild districts The ‘must go’ event in the construction industry calendar for forward thinking professionals and influencers. ecobuild 2018 will present the latest technology, the

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freshest thinking and materials to keep you at the forefront of the industry. The centrepiece will be the comprehensive conference programme curated by top industry

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figures. Surrounding this will be a series of futurebuild districts, each exploring a different aspect of the built environment.

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