ANGLIAN DEMOLITION
Transforming offices for state-of-the-art CamLIFE project
City Demoltion’s Dan Highfield gives us the ins and outs of his journey through demolition
Becks travels back to Norwich to see how their project has progressed
Can you believe that the first year of Demolition Spotlight has come to an end? No? Well, we can’t either. And honestly what an incredible year it has been. We have worked with some truly incredible people, been to some awesome places, and experienced things we only dreamed were possible in mini mag form. But now the time has come to put on our big boy boots and gear up for our full mag launch in March 2025. That’s right, this is our final mini mag!
What’s in store you ask? Oh, nothing much. Just 3 fantastic case studies from City Demolition, Anglian Demolition and Shorts Group! Plus an exclusive interview with Dan Highfield of City Demolition. On top of all this we have two incredible articles from the lovely Paul Argent as well as the latest news from some industry favs. This edition is more stuffed than the Christmas turkey!
Happy Reading, and a very merry Christmas!
Rebecca Phillips Managing Editor
DARREN SHELTON BUSINESS MANAGER
MARTINA TONELLI MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR
REBECCA PHILLIPS MANAGING EDITOR
LORNA COWLIN CONTENT CREATOR
CHARLOTTE WALSH SENIOR SALES EXECUTIVE
STEVE WILSON DESIGN MANAGER
contributors
PAUL ARGENT RPA MEDIA SERVICES
DAN HIGHFIELD CITY DEMOLITION
LOUISE DOYLE CITY DEMOLTION
CLAIRE MCGILL ANGLIAN DEMOLITION
BRYONY MORTON-SHORT SHORTS GROUP
ANDREW HOPE SHORTS GROUP
MADISON DUNN R COLLARD
For all content related queries, contact editor@demolitionspotlight.co.uk
For all sales related queries, contact charlotte@demolitionspotlight.co.uk
Liebherr’s range of high-reach demolition excavators equips customers with everything they need for a successful project. The full line-up is now available in a choice of configurations that allow you to work at even greater heights and with greater precision. Anywhere.
At Collard Group, we understand that a successful project requires diligent preparation, our services are designed to pave the way for smooth project execution while addressing critical preparatory tasks that set the stage for your main construction phase.
Because Collard Group are able to offer an end-to-end solution to our customers through our circular economy model, we find that the financial stability of the group allows us to leverage opportunities outside the capacity of regular demolition companies. This model also means we are able to be incredibly self sufficient due to little need to subcontract out works as the group can complete a project from start to finish independently. When it comes to reshaping landscapes, managing complex demolitions, and paving the way for developments, the Collard Group has built a reputation as a trusted partner in the construction industry. Offering a
seamless, end-to-end service across the UK, Collards brings unmatched expertise to every phase of development, from consultancy and site investigations to full-scale structural demolition and land remediation. We ensure sites are “shovel ready” for the next phase of development.
Collards’ comprehensive capabilities are showcased in projects currently underway across the country. In Reading, the team is well under way with the soil remediation phase of the Vastern Road project. Over in Basildon, the Essex Waste site is buzzing with activity as groundworks progress, including the meticulous filling of the main tipping halls pit. Meanwhile, at Pangbourne’s BP site, sheet piling and sewer diversions have now been successfully completed.
Collards’ work at Harvest Hill in Maidenhead is equally impressive, with 30,000 cubic meters of material
already imported to prepare the site for future housing developments. And at Spelthorne Leisure Centre, we are undertaking the preparatory groundworks. Notably, at a London hospital, the group’s in-house asbestos team, Amiante STR, has been tackling licensed and non-licensed asbestos removal across five floors, skilfully managing 23 enclosures while navigating the challenges of a multi-contractor site.
Behind Collards’ success lies a highly skilled team that thrives on collaboration and technical transformation. From operations managers and quantity surveyors to an in-house HSQE team, every project benefits from thorough oversight. The HSQE specialists ensure rigorous adherence to bespoke safety systems, creating environments where efficiency meets uncompromising safety standards.
Our efforts at the early tender stage often set the tone for the entire project. It’s about building trust and demonstrating our commitment to excellence from day one.
For those curious to see the faces behind the work, Collards invites you to “Meet the Team” on our website, where the expertise driving the company’s operations is displayed.
Asbestos management is a critical component of Collards’ service offering, and our expertise in this area is second to none. The acquisition of Amiante STR, a specialist asbestos firm, has bolstered our capacity to deliver safe, compliant removal and disposal solutions. From initial surveys and HSE notifications to the final removal of hazardous materials, Collards manages the entire process with precision.
Our group ethos is all about offering clients a single-source solution. This comprehensive approach has seen Collards successfully navigate asbestos challenges in a wide array of settings, including homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals. With extensive resources and management systems, we ensure that no detail is overlooked.
Our Earthworks & Civils division is at the forefront of landscape transformation, specialising in brownfield site remediation, soil stabilisation, and terrain reshaping. Whether constructing largescale embankments, dams, or levees, or tackling intricate load calculations and structural design, the division delivers innovative, client-focused solutions.
Our commitment to excellence extends to civil engineering projects, where we blend functionality with compliance
to meet local regulations and industry standards. By leveraging our fleet of modern excavators, bulldozers, and haulage lorries, Collards ensures every project is managed with efficiency, strict quality control, and timely completion.
A key differentiator for Collards is our embrace of the circular economy model. By integrating sustainability into our operations, the group remains financially robust while maintaining self-sufficiency. This model minimises the need for subcontractors, allowing Collards to independently oversee projects from concept to completion.
Our ability to deliver projects in-house means we maintain complete control over quality and timelines. It’s a game-changer for our clients, who can rely on us to deliver seamless, cost-effective solutions.
At Collards, preparation isn’t just a phase. Every detail, from the initial groundwork to the final touches, is meticulously planned and executed to set the stage for success. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, the Collard Group continues to explore what’s possible in the industry.
To learn more about our projects and meet the team that makes it happen, visit our website today.
On Friday 15 November in Birmingham, the only organisation in the World for demolition engineers, The Institute of Demolition Engineers, held it’s AGM and appointed a Birmingham born engineer as the new President.
Adrian McLean, Operations Manager at Armac Group, takes over the role from Past President Vernon Watson, who had steered the Institute through a sticky two years when revenue was low and internal changes needed to be made.
Adrian started his maiden speech as President by stating “I feel very honoured to be standing here before you today as the incoming President of the Institute of Demolition Engineers.”
He added: “It is my intention to work tirelessly for the further development of the IDE and its members. We work best when we collaborate, so your support on this journey will be much appreciated.”
There are key priorities that Adrian will drive during his presidency, but his focus will be to increase membership on a global level. “As President, I will be seeking to increase membership across the UK and the world,” he said. “I want to achieve this whilst also maintaining
our high standards of excellence – we are the only organisation in the world that champions demolition engineering”.
The IDE knows that there are hundreds of demolition professionals around the World who would benefit by becoming IDE members so he will spearhead the roll out of the new international member category within the IDE which allows those professionals from far off shores to become members via a new IDE education route which will hopefully lead to members in Europe, the Far East, Australia, New Zealand and USA.
Under Adrian’s direction, the IDE will also increase its focus on professional development initiatives. This will include exams, interviews, and the regional meetings that are so loved by existing IDE members. Regional meetings will be free to attend, held after work and will be both educational and enjoyable. Meetings are already in the diary for The Midlands and the North West.
The President will also promote the IDE educational partnerships—particularly with the University of Wolverhampton to promote degrees in demolition engineering.
Despite the successful 2017 launch of the UK’s first-ever demolition degree courses, which was done in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton, the most recent intake for the IDE Foundation Degree in Demolition Management was postponed due to a drop in applicants. The lack of interest in the courses may stem from the long-standing negative perception the public has of demolition industry work, something the new IDE President is keen to see change.
Another priority for Adrian is for the IDE to deepen its relationship with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), by actively participating in its roadshows currently hosted by the NFDC, to strengthen the IDE’s industry links and to actively encourage more dialogue with HSE going forward.
The IDE is changing and that change will be fast and focused.
Open-S Alliance, the independent organization behind the initiative to create an open standard for automatic couplers for excavators, welcomes ACDE Europe AG as a member. ACDE Europe AG specializes in demolition and recycling attachments, providing a range of equipment for both dealers and OEM customers on the European market. With this addition to the list of members, the Open-S standard continues its international growth.
ACDE Europe AG, with headquarters in Wilen, Switzerland, was established in 1994 and is today present with distribution sales and service of Beilite® hydraulic hammers (80-13 000 kg) through a network of dealers in Europe. The company is a manufacturer of ACDE® Europe hydraulic grapples, pulverisers, shears and a wide range of demolition, forestry and quarry attachments. Deliveries of products and parts are handled through their logistics center in
the Netherlands, enabling short delivery times throughout Europe. ACDE Europe AG joins the Open-S Alliance as an Associate member.
“Joining the Open-S Alliance aligns perfectly with ACDE Europe’s commitment to innovation and quality in the demolition and recycling sectors. By collaborating with industry leaders, we can drive the development of standardized solutions that benefit our customers and the entire industry. This partnership allows us to continue offering cutting-edge products that meet the evolving needs of our clients”, says Karel Glaaser, CEO of ACDE Europe AG.
The Open-S standard builds on the established symmetrical standard for quick couplers, which is the fastest growing standard internationally. Open-S Alliance is an independent industry organization with the sole purpose of developing the Open-S standard for automatic couplers further. Not least is this a relevant development for the
demolition industry, where many and fast work tool changes are common. With an open standard the utilization increases and profitability improves on all types of job sites, as work tools can be shared easiliy between different excavators.
“We are glad to see the number of members and the support for the standard growing internationally. With ACDE Europe we have yet another quality supplier and manufacturer of excavator work tools joining the organization”, says Anders Jonsson, Chairman of the Board of Open-S Alliance.
For more information contact: Anders Jonsson, Chairman of the Board of Open-S Alliance AB anders.jonsson@opens.org, +46 70 590 09 49
Stefan Stockhaus, Board member of Open-S Alliance AB stefan.stockhaus@opens.org, +46 70 998 13 21
Joining the Open-S Alliance aligns perfectly with ACDE Europe’s commitment to innovation and quality in the demolition and recycling sectors.
Managing Editor Rebecca Phillips travels to Bromsgrove in Worcestershire to visit one of City Demolition’s latest projects.
A pleasant drive brought us from City Demolition’s headquarters in Birmingham to the active site in Bromsgrove, the site not far from the main high street. It’s always fascinating to visit a site in such a built up, active location and see how each company tackles the issues that presents, and the Bromsgrove site was a particularly interesting project to visit.
At our point of arrival, 2 of the 3 buildings were already demolished, the site beautifully tidy and still in working order. The project had been active for 14 weeks, with site manager Darren giving an estimated 1 month to bring down the final building and another 1 for clean-up. All in all, and from an outsiders’ perspective, things seemed to be relatively simple. However, a little probing gave us some deliciously interesting problems that had needed fixing.
Lucky then, that Darren was leading the way.
Location: Bromsgrove
Client: Unnamed
Time Spent: 14 Weeks to date
Time Remaining: Estimated 8 weeks
On Site Person: Darren Grainger
Machines Used:
400 Kobelco - Kobelco SK400DLC-10
300 Kobelco - Kobelco SK300LC-10E
Crusher - Terex Finlay J-1170 Crusher
Loading Shovel - Hyundai Loading Shovel HL960A
Volvo 380 - Volvo EC380EL
All machines are equipped with Oil-Quick coupler systems.
Having been in demolition for many years, and worked for City Demolition for over 14 years, Darren has seen an enormous variety of projects. He is regarded as one of the top and most respected site managers and meeting him proved why. He has a calm, relaxed countenance, with a quiet confidence in everything he does. As someone who is technically minded with a wealth of demotion knowledge, he is often brought into figure out the best method to bring the building down. For Darren, this is certainly something he enjoys. “I like the challenge a problem brings. Get the mind going.” That was certainly the case for this particular site, as there were more than a few niggly challenges to overcome.
As an example, the first building at the end of the site was only 1m away from the building next door, which gave very little room to begin the deconstruction process using machines. Any wrong footing (or driving) would have proved incredibly problematic and potentially destructive to the entirely wrong building.
Two machines had to be used to do so, in order for it to be conducted safely, and working in perfect conjunction, they were able to munch down the building without issue.
This is something that will also e considered with take down of the third building, as despite there being a tad more room on that side (an entire extra meter in fact!) it was still not enough to drive circles around the building.
“It’s a relatively easy fix,” Darren assured us. “We’ll chat to the neighbours and warn them when the work starts. And if we need access to their car park in order to get a better vantage point, we’ll ensure that’s all sorted before we begin. There’s always a fix.” At least with this final building though, the plan seemed relatively simple. With a good vantage point, Darren plans to munch it down and let gravity ‘do its thing’.
Another particularly fascinating aspect was the recycling side. Demolition, despite its seemingly bad rep, can actually be one of the greenest industries around as so much of the material is recycled for other projects, and City Demolition ensure that this is the case. Darren explained that only a few weeks ago, the site was covered in the neat, relevant piles of different materials ready to be whisked away. What proved to be a problem, was actually down to the previous occupation of the fallen building.
As it was an old fire station, there were actually contaminants in some of the materials. PFOS (or forever chemicals for the layman) were present in much of the brick as they are particularly present in the suppressants used by the fire service. As forever chemicals stick around, well… forever, they need to be kept away from people as they can cause health problems.
Happily, City Demolition have the right people on the job.
The relevant material was tested and segregated from the recyclables, with the contaminated material cordoned off to make doubly sure it wasn’t touched prior to removal. This also included putting in precautions to warn the neighbours, as just behind the site was a school. As with all of their projects, City Demolition approached the issue with the utmost care a diligence, making a potentially catastrophic problem an easy fix.
This is also important to note, as with many demolition sites, ‘urban explorers’ like to break onto site and explore the derelict buildings. The Bromsgrove site, with its tantalising history, was sadly no exception. It goes without saying that anyone who decides to walk into an empty building is taking their own life in their hands, but with the general process of demolition not being well understood, they are placing themselves far more at risk than they might first realise. Demolition is far more like deconstruction than it is about simply demolishing something.
In such a built up area, there will be no explosions, implosions, or historic wrecking balls. The process involves working backwards to take the building apart in the opposite order to its construction. So, there will often be supports that are no longer in place that those not in the know will not be aware of. Thankfully, City Demolition places security and safety as a top priority. High fences, warning signs and a stringent PPE policy means that a City Demolition site is a safe site. In fact, it perfectly embodies their slogan ‘Think Safety, Work Safely’
There have certainly been many highlights to this project as well, and not just in the form of a problem expertly overcome. For instance, the soft strip went easily without hitch, with all the disconnections made in a timely fashion. The wet weather, while often terrible for many outdoor jobs, has actually been good for dust suppression, meaning work could continue even when many other hardy outdoorsmen had retreated.
It’s also good to note how productivity is at the fore front of City Demo’s minds. For example, their use of Oil Quick couplers allows the change of attachments without having to leave the machine. It plays into the safety aspect of their work ethic but is also a huge time saver as there is less down time. This is also aided by such a tidy work site, as their job is not impeded by having to manoeuvre between random debris. “I won’t work in an untidy site,” says Darren.
From start to finish, this project has been fantastically managed. Whether from a contract’s perspective to an on site presence, all parties involved have worked seamlessly to keep this project in tip top shape. The professionalism was evident at every turn: sustainability, safety, security, you name it, City Demolition had it covered.
Our unique capability to repurpose virtually all construction and demolition waste from site helps our public sector, local authority, commercial and residential clients achieve zero-to-landfill targets.
Demolition
Structural alterations
Site clearance
Soft strip
Asbestos management
Remediation
Earthworks & civils
Temporary works
Demolition & Enabling Works Waste Management Aggregates & Concrete
By Paul Argent
2024 saw the muchanticipated release of Volvo’s new F series range of excavators replacing the market leading E series.
Unlike many manufacturers, Volvo’s launch of the standard F series models was almost immediately followed by an announcement of a demolition specific event held at the company’s development centre in Eskilstuna, Sweden.
The event began with a fanfare of fireworks and music revealing not one, but two new models in the manufacturer’s line up, an EC400 and EC500, both of which have taken the new F series excavator’s standard machine and transformed it into state of the art high reach machines, both of which have the capability of working with numerous boom configurations.
Both excavators use a hydraulically widening undercarriage, similar in design to the outgoing EC380E and EC480E models which provides additional width on the ground increasing the machine’s stability and working radius. The tracks are now fitted with heavy-duty rebar benders ensuring the longevity of the upper structure which can now be fitted with an improved SIPS system designed to not only protect the body, but to keep the overall width down allowing ease of transport in certain EU countries.
The slew ring is suitably protected from damage as is the underside of the upper structure. The F series range has been improved over the E series in several ways with the upgrading of the panelling around the machine, again, this has been done to reduce the cost from potential damage. Both models are also fitted with active personnel detection which alerts the operator should anyone stray into the working zone of the machine. A pair of sensors built into the rear counterweight and a third on the offside handrail can disseminate between an object or human and relays the information through Volvo’s new Co-Pilot system into the cab.
The event began with a fanfare of fireworks and music revealing not one, but two new models
With many operators saying the previous generation’s cab was the best, Volvo’s design team have taken that a step further on the F series
With many operators saying the previous generation’s cab was the best, Volvo’s design team have taken that a step further on the F series. A premium, heated and cooled seat awaits the operator with Volvo’s clean and easy to use interface upgraded for the new machine. Electro-hydraulic joysticks provide a greater degree of precision for the operator and along with the new CoPilot touch screen, allows for a vast array of machine information to be accessed with a simple touch.
Joining the Co-Pilot screen is Volvo’s all new Demolition Co-Pilot screen which is situated at the top of the front screen to the operator’s right hand side. This screen shows the information in real time gathered by the sensors mounted to the boom, intermediate boom and stick showing the exact position of the machine. The information gathered by the sensors is translated into showing the operator what the machine is doing, the duties it can achieve and through a series of traffic lights, allows them to see just where the limitations of the machine are.
‘We have developed this system to be user friendly and not too complicated.’ Sunghoon Shin, one of the demolition machine developers commented. ‘We wanted a system that can show the machine in real time allowing the operator to make informed decisions on what is shown on the screen.’ The cab has also been modified with the moving of the wiper motors away from the operator’s main field of vision to give them a wider expanse of glass to see through. To aid upward vision further, the cab also tilts back to a full 30°.
Looking at model specifics, the EC400 uses a 342hp D13J engine whilst the larger EC500’s D13J develops 423hp. Both engines have been calibrated with the pump system to provide ample hydraulic flow and pressures to the end of the stick enabling seamless attachment operation.
The new boom options on both models allow for an operating height of just over 23m on the EC400 with the pin height on the EC500 reaching a little over 28.5m. Both standard heights can be increased by a further 4m with the fitment of an additional boom extension between the boom foot and main boom section. Both the high reach boom, extension piece and digging equipment have been designed with new, low profile cradles allowing operators to easily access the hydraulic and water quick couplers mounted to the side of each section.
A full suite of hydraulic services allow a wide range of attachments to be used as well as the almost standard hydraulic
couplers now seen on most demolition machines. The level of detail put into the design of the boom is outstanding with the dust suppression pipework now terminated on the tipping link allowing it to follow the attachment wherever it goes. A simple turn of a nut on the side of the pipework allows the operator to change the spray pattern and volume of water being ejected from the pipe ensuring minimum issues from dust. For thos operators who want a clearer view of the worksite at up to 32m, a side mounted and underside of stick mounted camera have been fitted.
Like all of the sensitive equipment such as the positional sensors, these components have been suitable protected to reduce damage and operational costs. ‘We looked at the existing boom sections and have revised the hydraulic pipe runs reducing their width and keeping them inside the overall width of the boom. ‘This reduces the risk of damage when the boom is lifted using the dedicated lifting points.’ Martijn Donkersloot, Volvo’s Special Application Solutions Manager commented. ‘We have made 56 changes both large and small to the new generation of demolition machines following
extensive conversations with owners and operators of the previous generation to make the F series what we think is the best in its class.’
When utilising the digging equipment, the operator can choose either a straight or bent configuration and this is mirrored with the use of the boom extension allowing a myriad of combinations to be used. Tool carrying weights for both new models have increased with the EC400 maxing out at 3.3 tonnes with the larger machine capable of carrying up to 3.5 tonnes.
The new range has also been bolstered with the new EC400 straight boom. Carrying all the class leading characteristics of the standard EC400, the straight boom machine uses the same boom and stick system found on the outgoing EC380E model.
The rapid launch of these new machines is testament to Volvo’s desire to continue their elevated position within the demolition sector on the F series machines. Such was the glowing feedback from operators and owners at the event that the first EC400 model was ordered within a few hours of its launch!
following extensive conversations with owners and operators of the previous generation we think the F series is the best in its class
DISMANTLING
SOFT-STRIP/REFURBISHMENTS
FACADE RETENTION
SITE CLEARANCE/BULK EXCAVATION
Over this past year, it has been truly fascinating to meet such an extensive range of people with a wealth of knowledge. And this interview with Dan Highfield was no exception.
Sat with a cup of coffee, I genuinely wish this chat could have gone on forever. A bright, funny character who put everyone at ease, Dan took me through his entire career journey in what was a truly riveting conversation. I really appreciated getting to learn the ins and outs of how Dan got where he is today. It’s easy enough to Google the specifics oof a job role, but how someone got to it? Less so. And those pivotal choices are the topic of this interview.
Editing it down to just the highlights was no easy task, but just as Dan, my new favourite motivational speaker says: Nothing worth doing is without effort.
So best place to start off, how did you get into demolition? Has it all been with City Demo?
I actually started off as a qualified carpenter, and I did that for a good five years. But when work started to dry up, I had a couple of friends that worked here at City, and they got me an interview. And that was it really. The short story; I came in as a labourer, and progressed from there.
So how long ago was that? 11-12 years ago now.
And what kept you here? Because it was quite the career change in many ways…
It was all down to being offered the opportunity to do the apprenticeship really. I was clearly doing something right because I was one of the youngest people at the company, when Mark asked if I wanted to do an NFDC apprenticeship. And with that you basically came out of the course as a top man, so I went for it. I completed that and then was also a part of the first group to complete the new NFDC charge hand course. After this there was the opportunity to complete the supervisor’s card as well. So, I did that too. I never actually made it up to the gold card, because by the time I as in a position to complete the NVQ, I was already working in office at that point, I was now on a different path in my career. After a while of being in the office Mark offered me another opportunity to go to university to pursue a career in Quantity Surveying. This came as quite a shock as it’s something I would never have seen my self doing.
Now, as you’ve done both, as in theory and practical, would you say one is more vital than the other? Or do you need both?
Practical. All the way. It’s not to say you can’t learn anything from a book, but the knowledge will be limited to a more basic overview. When you’re out on site, you come up against all sorts of problems that you have to navigate, so you learn the ins and outs of the trade much better. That, and you’ve got the guys around you who have been doing the job for a long time and will give you practical advice a book wouldn’t know.
Do you think theory narrows people’s field of knowledge?
Only if you’re not open to learning on the job. And then you’re probably not the right person for the role. This is something you’ll come to see a lot of the time in both construction and demolition. Either people stay in it for a really short time, and they leave, or it’s forever. So, you can really learn if you put your mind to it. I wouldn’t leave this type of industry now.
Do you think you’ve hit your stride now? Is this where your future is?
Absolutely. It’s all about working for the right company and having a clear pathway. It might not always be straight, but you’ve just got to roll with it. I got to a high standard on site as a supervisor, so I made the switch to the office, where I came in and started at the bottom. So, I’ve worked my way up to where I am now, and there is still another level of achievement I’m aiming for. This comes with time and commitment from myself and the backing of the company to allow me to progress further.
That must be helpful for you when you’re doing your project valuations or any costings, as you’ve lived and breathed a work site.
I think so. I’ve got a pretty wellrounded view, but I certainly don’t know everything. But I like to learn, and I think as long as you are open to it, there is something new to take away from every day. It also helps with communicating with the lads on site and valuing their views and opinions.
Every day is a school day, as they say. 100%. It’s just strange to me as I honestly never thought I would be that way, let alone go to university. School was just something I went to; it never really held my attention. But with this industry I’m a bit of a nerd. I like to learn as much as I can all the time. My biggest fear when it came to university was never the knowledge though, it was the application of putting it on paper and doing the dissertation. English isn’t my strong point, but I ended up never dropping below a 1st with any of my submissions and coming out with 1st Class Honours.
That’s ridiculously impressive! It was clearly what I was meant to be doing. When I did the NFDC apprenticeship, I won apprentice of the year in 2016, which was insane because I honestly never thought I’d win it given that I was up against candidates who all worked in London. I was the first ever winner of this category, as it hadn’t existed up until then!
You’re right, you are a nerd. And proud.
What’s the next step for you then?
Well, I’m a Quantity Surveyor now, so the next pathway for me is really Commercial Manager. But I have more to do before I reach that level, so I’m working up to it. I like to earn my place, and it’s a discussion that me and the MD (Mark) have had. I’m certainly excited for what lies ahead.
Do you have any advice for up and commers who want to follow in your footsteps?
Well, I’m not one for motivational quotes, if I’m honest.
Not a motivational speaker then? Absolutely not, it’s all rubbish. I never needed anyone to motivate me, I always had my own drive, but what does motivate me is seeing someone physically working hard and getting rewarded for it I’m not saying it’s easy, but my main advice would be you definitely have to put in the work, and sometimes that’s actually going out and
looking for opportunities and when they do come take them It’s not about chasing praise, but you have to earn your position and not expect it to be handed to you. This is way the demolition industry really is such a rewarding job.
Is that what you’d say to yourself 10 years ago?
Just keep your head down, but you have to put the effort in or there is no point at all.
Definitely making that into a motivational quote, I’m afraid.
*Sighs*
What is truly inspiring about City Demolition, is the investment they make into their personnel. When it comes to people, their goal always seems to be to help them excel. It would explain why, in a sector where worker retention is so low, they have people working for them for tens of years. A company that cares is always one that will succeed, which is why City Demolition has the glowing reputation it does.
Norfolk-based demolition company Anglian, has undertaken a redevelopment project to help transform existing office buildings in Cambridge into a state-of-the-art 42-acre parkland science campus. The project has created premises which have reduced carbon emissions by 40% compared to a new build.
The three-month project at CamLIFE (Cambridge Lab and Innovation Focused Environment) in the location formerly known as Capital Park, was undertaken for Longfellow Real Estate Partners – the largest privately held investor and developer of life science buildings in the US. Anglian acted as main contractor for building and property maintenance firm Wates.
Employing a team of 30, Anglian carried out works including partial demolition, internal demolition, alterations and soft strip within three office buildings which were built in 2013. Once fully complete, CamLIFE will deliver approximately 170,000 square feet of best-in-class fitted lab and office space.
The aim of the redevelopment project was to utilise the existing properties and follow an adaptive redesign approach to achieve the lowest environmental impact. This has resulted in a 40% whole-life embodied carbon reduction compared to a newbuild net-zero equivalent. With a long-standing commitment to sustainable development, Longfellow is targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A during this project.
With many different materials within the buildings which all needed to be removed, Anglian utilised its expertise to complete each stage of the demolition process. This included carefully removing large panes of glass and metal spiral staircases, as well as saving 3000 bricks to be reused in the next construction phase.
As with every Anglian demolition job, all waste created was transported back to Anglian’s 10-acre facility in Attleborough to be processed. As much material as possible was reclaimed for recycling or looped back into the circular economy, including 87 tonnes of metal, seven tonnes of glass and 11.5 tonnes of rubble.
Andy Elvin, Senior Contracts Manager at Anglian Demolition & Asbestos, said: “We were delighted to undertake this latest project for Wates on behalf of Longfellow. This was a significant project for us which utilised the many skills we have within the team here at Anglian. As a business, we are committed to reducing the impact of demolition jobs on the environment by segregating and processing our waste as standard. This approach complemented perfectly the aims of Longfellow to create stateof-the-art premises with minimal environmental impact and the highest standards.”
Originally established as a demolition and asbestos services company, Anglian has always had firm foundations in the construction industry. The business was founded by Lee Storer, who began his career in the building trade at his father’s roofing supply company, before going on to start his own skip business.
Having gone into licensed asbestos removal services with business partner and former asbestos training lecturer John Fowler, Lee and John formally set up Anglian Demolition & Asbestos in 2007. Joining the Institute of Demolition Engineers and taking their existing qualifications and expertise with them, the company quickly began to pick up work with local leading contractors. Over the past 17 years, the company has expanded to offer additional specialist divisions for scaffolding, earthworks and waste recycling.
Managing Director, Lee Storer, says: “Although our business was started in demolition and asbestos services, we quickly spotted the opportunity to add on extra divisions which would support our core operations and also offer individual services in their own right. There is a natural synergy between all divisions at Anglian and as a result, the expertise we have across the business is second to none.”
The additional divisions not only enabled Anglian to go for larger, more complex demolition projects, offering a full turnkey operation, it also meant the business could provide clients with the full range of services for every project as required. The company has earned preferred supplier status among a host of Tier 1 contractors.
Based on a 10-acre licensed site in Norfolk just off the A11, today Anglian is the region’s fastest growing waste management company and metal recycling facility. As well as providing skips and ROROs for commercial and domestic customers, the scrap arm of Anglian’s operation processes and sends out hundreds of tonnes of ferrous and non-ferrous metal each month for recycling.
Waste from every demolition job (including the Wates project in Cambridge which you can read about in this issue) is segregated as much as possible on-site to allow Anglian to recover maximum materials for recycling or looping back into the circular economy. The business also provides a trusted pair of hands for other contractors, removing and processing waste from a wide range of third-party demolition sites.
Lee sums up: “Anglian is founded on a wealth of skill, experience and passion which runs throughout every division. We are extremely proud to be experts in our field, holding a raft of top industry accreditations. With a host of significant projects lined up for 2025, we are looking forward to what the new year brings.”
By Paul Argent
In just over 14 years, Putnam Construction has grown from a one-man operation into a nationwide, multi-disciplined contractor serving a long list of repeat, blue-chip clients.
Headed by Jake Putnam, Putnam Construction delivers a wide range of services from tipper and grab hire through to earthworks and demolition services. Based near High Wycombe, the company has built up their reputation across the region picking up clients who are now demanding their services across the country thanks to their constant drive to deliver a high-quality, reliable service.
As the company has grown, so has their investment in plant and equipment allowing them to increase their productivity and services for the clients. While the investment in equipment is one thing, having the right, likeminded people also play a major role in the growth of the company.
With an increase in their demolition order book and with the projects increasing in size, Jake looked to the market for a new high reach machine capable of taking the company literally to the next level. “Whilst we have several high reach machines in the fleet, but these were all too small for the projects we were pricing.” He commented. “For the projects we had in the order books, we needed something to give us more reach and whilst we could have hired a machine in, we like to invest in our company and looked to add one to our fleet. With lead times for new machines being over 12 months, we looked to the market for a good, used example and quickly found a CAT 349E which both suited our needs and was available to fit in with our program of works.”
The base 50t excavator had been sent to Ipswich based specialists Kocurek to undergo their typical conversion into a telescopic high reach machine. The 349E left the Hadleigh Road factory sporting a tilting cab, lengthened and hydraulically widening undercarriage, additional counterweight and Kocurek’s hook and pin boom system giving the machine a pin height of around 37m.
One of the first projects tackled by the new arrival was the completion of the demolition of one of Liverpool’s iconic landmarks. The Giro was a 12 storey steel and concrete office block in Bootle and when it shut, was one of banking giant Santander’s regional offices. Opened in 1968 the building was originally home to Girobank, part of the Post Office and was the first bank in Europe to offer interest on client’s current accounts and was also the first bank in Europe to offer a telephone banking service.
Nicknamed The Giro after its main task of sending out weekly giro cheques, the steady change of ownership along with changes in the way many banks did business, eventually saw the demise of banking at The Giro with it closing in 2021. Eventually sold to a private developer, the plan from the new owners includes the creation of a highly sustainable employment location.
As one of Putnam’s regular clients, the developer tasked Jake and his team with the safe demolition and land clearance ahead of the site’s redevelopment. The smaller buildings on the site, once soft stripped, were cleared very quickly leaving just the 12-storey block. Delays with service disconnection and the removal of a telecoms mast delayed the demolition of the building until mid-way through 2024. As the soft strip work had already been completed, the structural demolition works could commence immediately once the power was disconnected.
Whilst Jake’s fleet of modern demolition equipment and attachments capably removed some of the smaller buildings on site, the main office building standing at over 40m in height gave the company something to think about. “Even with the CAT on the fleet, we still needed a ramp to allow the machine to safely reach the top of the plant room located on the South side of the building.” Jake explains. “This meant we had to program the works to allow us to get sufficient quantities of material on the ground to build the ramp as the rest of the building was being dropped.”
Highly experienced operator Matt Thackray has recently joined the company following almost 10 years as an owner operator. “I wanted to get back onto the high reach work which I love.” He commented. “When Jake offered me a seat, I jumped at the chance. The company isn’t as established as other big names in the industry, but to be involved with such an up and coming business was one I relished. Jake is great to work for and is always willing to listen.”
With the company’s Volvo EC380E taking care of the lower parts of the Giro along with a Hitachi ZX210 on processing work, Matt started work on the 10-storeys to the North side of the building.
Already having a range of attachments for his existing fleet, Jake was keen to add a bespoke attachment for the new CAT high reach to ensure the reinforced concrete and steel structure could be taken down without any fuss. “We have been dealing with the team at Worsley Plant for several years and have several of their Rotar demolition attachments in the fleet.” He commented. “I’ve found the Rotar kit to be very reliable and capable of withstanding the punishment they get on site. I know that if anything was to go wrong with them, Worsley have the team capable of backing them up and quickly getting us working again.”
The latest addition to the Putnam Construction fleet is a Rotar RDC25S Combi Shear. The RDC25S boasts a maximum 900mm opening at its widest point and yet measures just 720mm in width allowing it to get into the tightest of spots with ease. Boasting over 100 tonnes of cutting force, the RDC25S is fitted with a set of removable tips and shear blades which can be quickly swapped over as and when required.
Fitted with a Lehnhoff Variolock automatic coupler, the combi crusher joins a range of other products sold and serviced through Worsley including several Rotar RG selector grabs and a range of Montabert hydraulic breakers. “I have been impressed with the Montabert breakers since their arrival onto the fleet.” Jake commented. “Pound for pound they are one of the most productive on the market.”
“The CAT and Rotar has been performing very well since it arrived.” Matt comments. “I’ve used several Rotar attachments over the years, and they have always been a great attachment. This is the first RDC I’ve used, and it must rank as one of the best combi tools I’ve been able to put to work. The cycle times are very impressive, and it has plenty of power to deal with some of the tougher concrete columns. Whilst this job doesn’t require the tool to be changed too often, having the Lehnhoff hitch has also made very appreciative of the technology allowing the tool to be swapped very quickly. Jake adds, “We have both OilQuick and Lehnhoff systems on our kit and find they improve our productivity massively. There is a significant cost in adding them to the fleet, but this can be recouped relatively quickly under the right conditions.”
With a wide variety of attachments on the fleet, the arrival of the new Rotar RDC cements the company’s relationship with Worsley Plant. “We have been dealing with the Worsley team for several years and find their customer service excellent.” Jake comments. “They have an excellent knowledge of their brands and what their customers need, the equipment is first class and to put it simply, we like dealing with them.”
Location: Norwich
Client: Working in partnership with Zive Capital On Site Person: Andrew Hope MCIOB, MIDE and Aaron Malin
Machines Used:
• High reach Kobelco SK550DLC High Reach fitted with various attachments cracker, Shear, Grab
• 52 ton Hyundai HY520 – with Pulveriser, Breaker etc
• 35 ton Hitachi ZX350 fitted with steel wrist and various attachments cracker, Pulveriser, Grab
• 30 ton Hitachi ZX300 fitted with steel wrist and various attachments cracker, Pulveriser, Grab
• 2 x 210 ton (1 x Hitachi ZX210 1 x Kobelco SK210 fitted with steel wrist and various attachments, both fitted with Steelwrist couplers to allow easy movement for the attachments)
• Sandvik QJ341 crusher 341 - 53 TON (Dehaco dust boss and moto fog for dust suppression) (Lowing shovel 100-ton crane also previously used)
It was a perfect end to the year getting to return to the Shorts Group demolition site in Norwich. Not only was it fantastic to see the progress made in the months since we had been away, but it was also the very first case study conducted for Demolition Spotlight! So then, the big question… what has Shorts Group been up to since last time?
We first visited the site right at the beginning of the project, with the disconnection of services and asbestos removal having been completed and the early stages of the soft strip having started. The main structure of the building was still intact, with machines arriving to site ready to begin the main demolition process. There was a little bit of apprehension from the neighbours about what the project might entail, though Andrew was on the case of how to ease their worries. And on top of that, there was a big focus on sustainability, not just from the client, Zive Capital, but as always from Shorts themselves. At only 6 weeks in, a lot had certainly happened.
By our visit in November, demolition was well underway, though not without difficulty as explained by both Andrew and Aaron. Before the actual process of deconstruction could start, an ecological survey was carried out which found seagull chicks on the two wing roofs, which immediately brought everything to a standstill as all species of gulls are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. This makes it illegal to intentionally or recklessly injure or kill any gull or damage or destroy an active nest or its contents. Initially, it was thought the delay would be six weeks.
Luckily, Andrew and the team came up with an innovative and creative solution. Rather than sticking to the original plan, they changed the sequence and began working from the top down on a different section as that was all handdemolition. They could then continue with the project within the allotted time frame, but it also allowed them access to monitor the chicks’ development. Thankfully, the hatchlings had fledged within five weeks, so they were able to keep the main work on track.
The gulls were not the only innovative solution used at the Norwich site. Shorts also employed the use of a demolition curtain, a relatively uncommon practice in the demolition world and one that is not aways readily used. Essentially, this giant curtain, that is suspended from a crane, is used to prevent the bounce back of debris into the surrounding area. Huge bins are then utilised to act as a barrier that will fully contain any bounce back. The choice of where they began the top down demolition meant enough space could be formed to create the 40 yard skip barrier and protect the live buildings as they munched their way through all 8 stories of this site.
Or even more importantly, the neighbours.
Given the close proximity of the site to surrounding buildings, this approach certainly plays into Shorts Group’s tactic to remain in constant contact with their neighbours and address any concerns they might have. Indeed, this has even led to a WhatsApp group being set up where locals are notified of progress, warned about any particularly loud or potentially intrusive works happening on a daily basis, and given a platform to speak about their worries surrounding the project. So, on top of aspects like the Demolition Curtain, they also installed environmental monitoring stations to maintain constant vigilance dust, noise and vibration, enabling Andrew, Aaron and team to be able to measure exactly what’s happening and then explain not only the practice to residents, but also assure them of their safety. Shorts Group are known for their diligence and commitment to best practice, and instances like this certainly prove that tenfold.
Alongside that, there is their continued dedication to sustainability. Andrew touched on this last time we visited, so there was already prior understanding of Shorts Group’s methodology. Now, we could see results. This even starts with the client themselves, who did a full life cycle analysis on the site, looking at its current carbon footprint, from the demolition to the carbon footprint of the new proposed design, so everything would be off set and end up more efficient in the end. So even if the general public were to start arguing that the original building could have been reused, there is evidence that proves longevity of the project, aided of course, by Shorts’ commitment to being fully sustainable.
For those in the know, the demolition process is really more of a deconstruction. It’s not a simple case of smashing down a building and going about the day. That means with the proper investment into recycling, so much of the raw material can be saved. The majority of demolition contractors regularly recycle up to 98% of their materials, as even if materials such as brick can’t be saved as is, they can be ground down and used as an aggregate. What Shorts ensure is that nothing that can be recycled goes to landfill, and that waste is segregated on site and sent to the relevant depot. This process is a balancing act between using the machines to do the heavy work and the workmen on site to assure proper practice, versus the time it takes to do that. For Shorts Group though, this presents no problem as this process is factored into every proposal they create, aided by the fact that everything can be recycled by Shorts Group themselves, so every project they set their hand to is sustainably minded. It’s incredibly forward thinking as more and more sustainability becomes a vital part of any plan. Andrew explained that while publicising the sustainable work they do with brick across all social media platforms, there were responses about only wanting the building to come down and not caring about the ‘green’ aspect. A short-sighted view, if there ever was one, and not one that Shorts Group would pay heed to.
And speaking of time constraints, as expected, this level of dedication goes further still. Their investment into their machinery is staggering, with over £3million worth of equipment being used on this site alone. Whether it’s universal couplers to pair with hard wearing attachments, or multiple excavators used to most efficiently bring the building down, Shorts Group have ensured it is covered. Proper machinery prevents irrelevant downtime, meaning speed, best practice and safety all play a keen role in, not just the Norwich site, but every Shorts Group project.
So, what’s the next step?
There is one final corner to take down whilst making use of the demo curtain and with that completed, they will be able to start cutting into the building, and then work back towards the core, which is left until last as that is where the reinforcement is. Then the building comes down, crushing foundations and finalising processing. Not long left to go at all - it will be wonderful to check back in a final time right at the end, and see a reflection of how the project went.
www.shorts-group.co.uk
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