Construction National Winter 2024/25

ConstructionNational

STREET FURNITURE

Street furniture is something we often take for granted. The litter bins, bollards, street signs and benches we associate with our surroundings are little regarded, yet they reflect our cultural identity.

The same applies to the works of art that, while not having the same practical purpose, demonstrate our pride in our locality.

When those works of art are neglected, that sense of pride is dented, which is why their maintenance is of such importance. We can see how maintenance and polishing by Ace Polishing Services (APS) based in Manchester has made the statue at the entrance to City, University of London a welcoming place for visitors.

Chris Stokes reflects on such matters on page 15.

7 Constructive Comment NEWS

8 Construction continues in top three sectors to suffer business distress

8 Edinburgh gas holder lights up the sky

9 Everton take possession of new stadium

10 Waste centre back on track as councils bury hatchet

10 Retrospective planning granted to quadbiking centre

11 Ofwat approves £104bn for water upgrades

12 Work starts on new prison at Gartree

12 Advice helps consumers find reliable traders

13 Futurebuild returns in March

13 RAAC removed from only 10% of affected schools, Lib Dems discover

STREET FURNITURE

15 What source of pride can be found on the street where you live? MODULAR AND

16 Spades go in ground at Dorset hospital building

16 Curved structure is company’s biggest challenge to date

17 Is copper the future for fire-resistant plumbing?

WORKING AT HEIGHT

18 Meeting brings forth stories of achievement and cautionary tales

18 Scaffolding bootcamps offer job-ready training

19 Initial Scaffex draws global attention

19 Tower association celebrates half-century with awards

LIGHTNING PROTECTION

20 New facility will boost lightning protection product offering

20 Finding an ATLAS member couldn’t be easier

21 Met Office has some bizarre facts about lightning

TOWARDS NET ZERO

22 Contracts signed for North East carbon capture and low-carbon energy projects

22 Research finds heat pumps outperform traditional fuels in the real world

BUILDING SAFETY

23 NAO reports on cladding remediation progress

23 London council takes action to force removal of ACM cladding

HEALTH & SAFETY

24 HSE marks 50 years as nation’s safety guardian

24 IOSH calls for more action on occupational lung cancer

24 Company fined over wind farm death

TECHNOLOGY ON SITE

25 DIGGER technology helps reduce HS2 emissions – and costs

25 Robotics company scoops innovation award

TRAINING, APPRENTICESHIPS AND EDUCATION

27 Staffordshire prepares to welcome new technology institute

28 To develop your business, partner with your local FE

28 Kirklees College welcomes first cohort of construction students in Dewsbury

29 Funding extended to replace grandfather rights

29 New dates announced for CITB Consensus

29 Building a stronger workforce with Chichester College Group

31 Bootcamp gives Londoners a grounding in wind energy skills

32 Centre of Excellence is the future for skilled welding professionals

32 Abingdon & Witney College launches new electrical apprenticeship

33 Industry prepares to open its doors

33 Fife retrofit course aims to lower heating bills

34 Community is ‘chuffed’ with train made by New City College carpentry students

35 Institutes call for exemption for Level 7 apprenticeships

35 Green advisory body returns to Exeter for summit

39 Construction’s top learners revealed

39 Employer events follow plant training updates

HOUSING

40 HBF report shows planning approvals at lowest ebb

40 Council’s sale adds to Perry Barr’s affordable offer

41 RIBA Home of the Year announced

41 Skills hubs set to kickstart homebuilding mission

HERITAGE

42 Latest round of conservation work commences at Tintern Abbey

42 Developer uncovers Cornwall’s industrial past

42 Advice note aids uniformity in retrofit planning

Constructive

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[WE’RE AN OPTIMISTIC lot here at Construction National. While the country was shivering in the cold snap or baling water out of their homes, we chose to adorn our front cover with a picture of a beautiful piece of art in pristine condition reflecting the summer sun. The sculpture, at City, University of London, has been maintained by a specialist company based in Manchester. It’s just one of the examples of street furniture uncovered in our cover story.

• For those of us who were recently occupied dealing with flooded homes, the announcement that the water companies have been given clearance by Ofwat to spend £104bn over the coming years to ‘upgrade’ the water system must be welcome news, if little comfort. The improvements should help prevent the sewage spills into some of our most precious eco-systems and waterways, and help improve water supply.

• The cold spell has reminded us that winter is well and truly here, so at least there shouldn’t be any lightning to worry about. Not so, apparently: there is a particular type of lightning that occurs during the cold weather. That’s just one interesting fact about lightning to be found on the Met Office website. We explore some of them in the first of our new series on lightning protection.

• All of which brings into focus the effects of climate change and our efforts to mitigate them. The commencement of work to capture, use and store the carbon we emit gives some cause for hope that at least we are looking in the right direction.

• Low carbon technologies and building renewable installations are at the forefront of the training on offer at many of our FE colleges, together with the skills needed to retrofit existing housing stock.

The announcement of the winners of the annual SkillBuild competition demonstrates that there is an ample supply of highly-skilled tradespeople in the pipeline.

• The whole of the renewables and low-carbon construction industry will be gathering once more at ExCeL in March for the annual Futurebuild expo. Over the years the show has grown to become the must-attend event for anyone keen to find out about the latest in planet-saving technology and products.

• Despite high-profile successes, the construction industry remains in the top three of industries with the highest proportion of distressed businesses. That was certainly the case for 2023, as reported by the Institute for Turnaround. The same Societal Impact report shows SMEs in the sector are faring better at addressing the issues than their larger counterparts. The good news is that the report for 2024 should show healthy growth in the sector.

• Housebuilding is also showing declining activity, in this case as a result of planning blockages. Despite government initiatives, figures from the Home Builders Federation show that approvals in Q3 were down by 10% on the previous quarter. A combination of planning turgidness, unsupported affordable homes requirements and a dearth of affordable mortgages is stalling housebuilding when there is a clear crisis.

• RIBA’s annual House of the Year award does not, fortunately, suffer from such vicissitudes, although it often points the way for good quality and sustainable housing. This year’s winner, Six Columns by 31/44 Architects, is no exception. Congratulations to them for achieving ‘a beautifully crafted family home’.

• Congratulations are also due to HSE on its 50th anniversary. Founded on 1 January 1975, the organisation has been a fierce advocate of health and safety in the workplace. q

Chris Stokes Editor, Construction National

CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES IN TOP THREE SECTORS TO SUFFER BUSINESS DISTRESS

[THE Institute for Turnaround (IFT) has released its fifth Societal Impact report, surveying its members and highlighting that UK corporate distress shows no signs of easing, despite some return to economic stability.

The number of distressed businesses across UK regions has risen by nearly 10% on average, representing a staggering 60% increase since 2017.

Construction continues to feature in the top three sectors for business distress and insolvencies. Sector challenges, such as low margins, volatility and payment delays, have been amplified by macroeconomic pressures, making it more difficult for businesses to absorb shocks.

Fixed-price contracts, which remain widespread in the sector, have compounded those issues, as many firms find themselves locked into pre-COVID terms that are now unprofitable due to inflation and surging material costs. The cascading effects of payment delays, often extending to 60-90 days, have further strained subcontractors and smaller firms, creating a knock-on effect across the supply chain. Trends concerning labour supply and skills are also potential barriers to growth in the long term.

There are some encouraging signs at the smaller end of the sector, with IFT members

seeing some smaller construction firms becoming increasingly proactive in addressing challenges. Many are adopting better cash flow forecasting practices, systematising their processes and ensuring proper documentation is in place before undertaking variations or new contracts. Those measures are helping to mitigate risks and position these firms for growth opportunities, particularly in areas like renewables and infrastructure projects.

The majority (61%) of IFT members continue to focus on business transformation as a key area of their work, supporting businesses to adapt, transform and succeed in the longer term. That is critical in sectors such as construction with constantly evolving demands and requirements, and new growth areas such as renewables and infrastructure projects. In line with wider findings from the report, robust governance and oversight have been highlighted as pivotal for construction businesses. Poor governance remains a key factor in recent sector failures, with effective risk management in pricing and contract execution being essential to maintain resilience.

Looking to the future, the construction sector is predicted to have grown by 8% in 2024 and to grow by 7% in 2025, driven by larger project starts and stabilised material costs. Digital transformation, including the adoption of cloud-based construction management

systems and 3D printing technologies, is expected to increase efficiency and profitability. Furthermore, infrastructure investments, including government-backed projects such as affordable housing and education sector refurbishments, could create substantial opportunities for firms ready to pivot toward these areas.

Milly Camley, CEO of The IFT said: “Many construction firms delay seeking advice until they are already in severe financial distress, which limits their options for recovery. Even in the face of the cumulative external factors facing UK businesses, there are many things that leadership teams can address with one rider: they must act early enough. This is where turnaround professionals come in. The value that such support can provide is huge, as demonstrated by the figures outlined in this report.”

Claire Burden, IFT chair, added: “Ultimately, challenges will persist and construction businesses need the ability to be agile and pivot towards new opportunities, while still maintaining their existing client base. This requires active management of supply chains and maintaining the flexibility to deal with project delays and client demands. Engaging early with turnaround support means more options and better outcomes.” q

EDINBURGH GAS HOLDER LIGHTS UP THE SKY

[THE ICONIC GASHOLDER now named Gas Holder 1 is a beacon of light in north Edinburgh as it is illuminated permanently after dark.

Refurbishment is now complete on the structure using funding from the UK Government. Permanent lighting on the frame means it can be seen brightly in the twilight hours and the frame was lit in festive colours for the whole of December.

The park within the frame, created using funding from the Scottish Government, opened on the weekend before Christmas for its first visitors.

The newly built 1.2 hectare park has six zones, including three play areas with a wide range of play equipment. For those out to explore the new outdoor space there is an inner ring walk going round the outer edges of the frame, with a range of places to sit and relax. An informative outdoor exhibition has also been created which showcases the history of Granton gasworks, as well as the restoration process which has just taken place.

opening of the park next year. It’s now open so I’d encourage local people to go and check out this fantastic new green space for the area as well as Gas Holder 1.

Large Hollywood-style lettering denoting ‘Gas Holder 1’ can be seen at the entrance, making a great photo opportunity. In the spring there will be a celebration to officially open the park when the ‘art zone’ will become home to the winner of the community-led art piece.

Depute Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, Mandy Watt, said: “Gas Holder 1 and the new park sit right at the heart of our £1.3bn regeneration of Granton Waterfront. I’m really excited we’ve reached this milestone before the year ends and look forward to the official

Graham Brown, senior contracts manager at McLaughlin & Harvey, who carried out the renovation, added: “We’re delighted to have completed this unique restoration project and handed it over to our client, the City of Edinburgh Council. In deconstructing the old bell, refurbishing the listed steel structure and repainting the frame, we have solved complex engineering challenges by using our vast civil engineering experience and successfully collaborating with our client and supply chain partners.” q

EVERTON TAKE POSSESSION OF NEW STADIUM

[LAING O’ROURKE has formally handed over the new stadium of Everton FC, at Liverpool’s Bramley-Moore Dock.

The club’s executive chairman Marc Watts and interim CEO Colin Chong joined Laing O’Rourke project director Gareth Jacques and other dignitaries for a ceremonial handover of Everton Stadium, which has been run by the contractor during the construction phase of the waterfront development. The handover comes three-and-a-half-years after the commencement of the project, with the build phase completing on schedule.

Having now taken possession of the site, the club will oversee the six-month fit-out phase that has now commenced. That will include interior design specialists, tradespeople and audio-visual engineers completing the stadium’s many bars, restaurants and experiences, as well as retail spaces, delivering a modern and unique new home for Everton.

Laing O’Rourke will retain a presence at Everton Stadium in the early months of 2025, as they ensure the new building meets required quality standards and specifications.

Marc Watts said: “I feel privileged to be here today to be part of the handover of this magnificent stadium in this stunning, unrivalled location. It is an illustrious moment in the history of Everton and marks a new era for the club on many levels. The stadium will play a key role in supporting our commercial vision for the club – hosting events and activities all-year round: but first and foremost, I have no doubt that it will be a venue that every Evertonian will be proud to call home.”

A series of three test events will take place in 2025 before the club stages its first competitive fixture at the stadium at the start of the 2025/26 season.

Interim CEO Colin Chong added: “Our thanks go to Laing O’Rourke, their workforce and extensive supply chain, along with the many people who have helped bring our vision to fruition.

“Construction has not been without its challenges, but we have remained on schedule despite a worldwide pandemic and a war in Ukraine, which threatened to affect the delivery of materials and destabilised financial markets.”

Having represented Laing O’Rourke on site from the outset, project director Gareth Jacques commented: “This is a momentous day for my team, for Laing O’Rourke, for our supply chain, all the design consultants and everyone involved with the project.

“We’ve spent 178 weeks on-site, and a year-and-half before that in pre-construction and planning. All those people; everyone from Everton and all the fans who have been ardently watching the progress have all been a big part of this, so to deliver it, as we have, on time, is phenomenal.

“The team has taken an old disused dock and created what is, I

believe, the best stadium in this country, so I couldn’t be prouder.”

Everton Stadium, recognised as the largest single-site private sector development in the country, will contribute an estimated £1.3bn to the UK economy and attract 1.4 million visitors to the city of Liverpool annually.

The scheme, which has led to the creation of thousands of jobs and forms part of Peel L&P’s £5bn Liverpool Waters project in the city’s Northern Docks, will act as a catalyst for more than £650m worth of accelerated regeneration directly benefiting the nearby Ten Streets development. q

Interim CEO of Everton FC Colin Chong (right) takes possession of the stadium from Laing O’Rourke project director Gareth Jacques.

WASTE CENTRE BACK ON TRACK AS COUNCILS BURY HATCHET

[PLANS BY Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council to fix and operate their jointly owned waste treatment centre in the suburb of Sinfin took a major step forward on 6 January. Bids are being invited from the waste industry for the site.

Both councils reaffirmed their commitment to the original decision, made in February 2023, to work in partnership to get the waste treatment centre operational. Fixing and operating the facility was found to be the most viable and costeffective long-term solution to manage household waste from both the city and county.

Soft market testing undertaken throughout 2023 confirmed there was capability, capacity and appetite in the market to deliver the project.

The future of the plant had been the subject of acrimony between the two councils. In January last year the county council issued the city council with an invoice for around £100m, leading to the Leader of Derby City Council being ousted. The invoice has since been withdrawn.

An exercise to shortlist bidders is expected to take place in February, leading to the award of a contract in December and commissioning of the facility in June 2028. It is anticipated the waste treatment centre will start to accept waste from across the city and county in November 2028.

RETROSPECTIVE

Cllr Ndukwe Onuoha, cabinet member at Derby City Council, said: “We still need a longterm, more sustainable solution to manage household waste which residents in Derby and Derbyshire either cannot or choose not to recycle. The councils are confident there is a competitive market for this project and the operators with the skills and experience to successfully deliver the project and its expected benefits.

“The councils have developed a procurement process and commercial proposition that we are confident will be attractive to suitably qualified and experienced companies and lead to a successful contract award.”

Cllr Simon Spencer of Derbyshire County Council commented:

“Having the waste treatment centre process non-recyclable household waste is more sustainable than transporting material around the country and reduces the risk of the councils being exposed to uncontrollable market prices in the future.

“We look forward with confidence to progressing the project to provide both councils with the most viable and cost-effective, long-term solution for the management of household waste, to benefit residents in both the city and county.” q

PLANNING GRANTED TO QUADBIKING CENTRE

[A QUADBIKING CENTRE in Buckinghamshire can continue operating in its existing home after retrospective plans were approved. Quadrenalin Quadbiking Centre has been based in Great Firs, Great

Brickhill, since 2015 and has gained a reputation as a popular outdoor adventure facility in the local area.

Buckinghamshire Council has approved a retrospective planning application to change the use of the land to a quadbiking facility with associated tracks, training area, ancillary buildings and landscaping.

Owner Alex Schiff said: “We are truly delighted and relieved to have secured retrospective planning permission. The centre has become an important part of the area, providing jobs for 15 staff members, many who live nearby, and creating opportunities for people to connect and enjoy the outdoors.

“The positive feedback we regularly receive reflects how much people value what we offer. We’re proud to have supported local schools and charities through donations and vouchers over the years, and we're excited to continue giving back while welcoming even more visitors to experience the fun and adventure we're known for.”

Sachin Parmar, planning director at Marrons, who led the proposals, said: “The development supports rural enterprise by creating a business that bolsters the local economy while being thoughtfully designed to blend into the countryside.

“The site is well-screened from the highway and its dark green buildings, combined with the natural undulating terrain, help to minimise visual and noise impacts.

“Beyond its economic contributions, the facility has a profound positive impact on visitors, including those with disabilities and mental health challenges, by promoting healthy outdoor activities that relieve stress and improve wellbeing.

“It also serves as a hub for teambuilding and community connection, offering an invaluable space for people to come together and enjoy the rural environment.” q

OFWAT APPROVES £104bn FOR WATER UPGRADES

[SUBSTANTIAL AND LASTING IMPROVEMENTS for customers and the environment are set to be delivered through a £104bn upgrade for the water sector announced by Ofwat on 19 December.

The 2024 Price Review (PR24) final determinations will see a quadrupling of new investment over the next five years, providing companies with the funding needed to transform performance, ensure supplies for future generations and to deliver cleaner rivers and seas.

Key elements of the investment package, which also reflect the UK and Welsh Governments’ stated priorities for the sector, include:

• £12bn on 2,884 projects reducing spills from storm overflows

• £6bn of upgrades to combat nutrient pollution for around 1,000 sites

• and catchments

• £3.3bn on nature-based solutions and increasing biodiversity

• £2bn of development funding to unlock £50bn investment for 30 major

• projects designed to secure water supplies, including nine new

• reservoirs and nine large-scale water transfer schemes

• £456m of extra funding on day-to-day allowances to increase the rate

• at which water mains are replaced, with 8,445km set to be improved

• over the next five years

The increase in investment needs is driven by delivering on the statutory standards and regulatory requirements set out by the Environment Agency (EA), Natural Resources Wales and the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Those relate to a range of programmes such as reducing spills from storm overflows, improving wastewater treatment standards and raising further the quality of drinking water.

Over the coming decades nine new reservoirs will be created, including in Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Oxfordshire, to create enough additional capacity to serve the daily needs of 2.5 million households. In total, the 30 major infrastructure projects will provide enough water to meet the daily needs of around a third of the population of England and Wales. That will help adapt to climate change, build resilience to drought and leave more water in the natural environment.

To help finance the essential investment programme, bills in England and Wales will increase by an average of £31 per year (36%) before inflation between now and 2030. That annual average increase compares with a £39 increase requested by companies in August 2024 (44%).

David Black, Ofwat chief executive, said: “Today marks a significant moment. It provides water companies with an opportunity to regain customers’ trust by using this £104bn upgrade to turn around their environmental record and improve services to customers.

“Water companies now need to rise to this challenge. Customers will rightly expect them to show they can deliver significant improvement over time to justify the increase in bills. Alongside the step up in investment,

we need to see a transformation in companies’ culture and performance. We will monitor and hold companies to account on their investment programmes and improvements.

“We recognise it is a difficult time for many, and we are acutely aware of the impact that bill increases will have for some customers. That is why it is vital that companies are stepping up their support for customers who struggle to pay.

“We have robustly examined all funding requests to make sure they provide value for money and deliver real improvements, while ensuring the sector can attract the levels of investment it needs to meet environmental requirements. This has seen us remove £8bn of unjustified costs compared with companies’ most recent requests. In addition, our approach to setting a rate of return has saved customers £2.8bn.”

Ofwat’s role, as economic regulator, is to ensure customers benefit from new investment, so they are not charged twice for work companies should have already carried out and that they only pay the efficient costs of new investment.

Ofwat does not determine the level of environmental investment, which is set out by agencies such as the EA. Ofwat’s job is to scrutinise the cost of proposals in company business plans to make sure all investment is good value for money, and then to hold companies to account for that investment.

Ofwat sets an allowed return that provides a reasonable return for the risks that investors face for their investment. There are opportunities for investors to earn enhanced returns where companies deliver great levels of service to customers and the environment, and the incentive mechanisms ensure investor returns are lower than the allowed return where performance is poor.

In setting the rate of return, Ofwat has to also take account of current market conditions, including recent increases in the cost of finance. This has seen the allowed return for the sector increase to 4.03% compared with 3.72% at draft determinations.

In addition, Ofwat forecasts that companies will need to raise levels of finance that significantly exceed the levels raised in any previous regulatory period.

Securing the future water supply will boost the economy by supporting new housing and business development.

The Ofwat Innovation Fund, which is being doubled to £400m, and the introduction of the £100m Water Efficiency Fund will help address sectorwide challenges. The Innovation Fund will continue to encourage fresh approaches while the Water Efficiency Fund will use a range of water efficiency approaches to stimulate a sustained and measurable reduction in water demand across England and Wales. q

WORK STARTS ON NEW PRISON AT GARTREE

[ WATES HAS ANNOUNCED that work has now started to build a new prison next to the existing HMP Gartree site in Leicestershire.

The project will deliver much-needed prison places for the Ministry of Justice, with a focus on enabling rehabilitation of prisoners and delivering social value to the local community.

The prison population in England and Wales is now greater than it ever has been and the government is undertaking a prison building programme to increase capacity. The new prison at Gartree will form part of that programme, providing over 1,700 new Category B prison places.

The new prison will include two large educational workshops and an educational facility incorporating 26 classrooms, to help prisoners develop skills to aid their rehabilitation after release. Throughout the project 50 prison leavers will be trained and reskilled, to prepare them to reintegrate into the workforce.

and to providing the prison places the country needs.

To stimulate the local economy and promote regional growth, Wates expect that 40% of the project spend will be within a 50-mile radius of the site. Additionally, the development will create 100 new jobs during construction, providing employment opportunities locally.

Offsite manufacturing will be used to create the main structures for the accommodation, service modules and plant rooms, to improve efficiencies in the construction process and minimise carbon emissions.

Phil Shortman, Wates’s regional manager for the MoJ, declared: “We are pleased to have the green light to deliver this important project, which will make a real difference both to the local economy

“Through the construction of this project, we are committed to providing valuable employment opportunities to those leaving prison, and once operational this prison will be equipped with excellent educational and training facilities to help prison residents develop the skills they need, to build their careers after release.

“Wates has established a strong track record of delivering projects at scale and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the Ministry of Justice to provide additional prison places.”

Working in partnership with the Ministry of Justice is a key strategic priority for Wates, which is working as part of the Alliance for New Prisons to deliver around 6,000 new prison places around the country, as well as in two separate alliances with other tier one contractors to deliver an additional 3,400 prison places in secure houseblocks. q

ADVICE HELPS CONSUMERS FIND RELIABLE TRADERS

[ AS MORE AND MORE PEOPLE are using trader recommendation sites to find and connect with traders such as builders, plumbers and heating specialists, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published a set of useful tips to help people choose a site that safely connects them to a trustworthy trader – and importantly, protects them if things go wrong.

The CMA has also finalised its advice for trader recommendation sites as it pushes the sector to ensure all businesses comply with consumer law. That means all sites should have a clear idea of their obligations under consumer law, so they can offer their service responsibly and make sure they’re acting on the right side of the law.

With the CMA set to receive stronger enforcement powers from next spring, trader recommendation sites that are not complying with their obligations risk facing a formal investigation.

The CMA’s tips seek to arm consumers with handy and practical guidance to use when selecting a trader recommendation site.

Hayley Fletcher, interim senior director of consumer protection at the CMA, said: “Millions of people use these sites to find a trusted and skilled trader, but that’s not always what they get. We’re arming consumers with a handy set of tips to use while navigating trader recommendation sites to help them find a legitimate and reliable trader.

“We’ve also issued advice for the sector – meaning sites should be entirely clear about what they should and shouldn’t do when it comes to consumer law. Not only does this help protect

consumers, it also means that the thousands of reliable and honest professionals who rely on these sites to connect with customers are competing on a level playing field.”

The recommendations were welcomed by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), whose Find a Builder service has helped many people to contact suitable traders.

Its chief executive Brian Berry commented: “Having work done to your home can be one of the most important, and often expensive, investments a person makes in their lives. For too long in Britain, ‘cowboy builders’ have been ripping people off and providing poorquality services. The UK is behind many other countries by not requiring builders to be licensed, which leaves consumers at risk of choosing incompetent and/or unscrupulous tradespeople.

“It is crucial that people use a builder they can trust, which is why the FMB provides a Find a Builder service to help consumers choose a vetted building company. The FMB service lists building companies that have been vetted and inspected before they can become a member.

“Going forward, it is very positive that the CMA will have stronger enforcement powers to investigate trader recommendation sites that are not complying with their obligations. We now need to see the government implement the recommendations of the Grenfell Report and introduce a mandatory licensing scheme to set minimum competency standards for building companies.” q

FUTUREBUILD RETURNS IN MARCH

[ THERE IS STILL TIME to register for Futurebuild 2025, which takes place from 4-6 March at ExCeL London.

Billed as ‘an event with impact’, Futurebuild is the must-attend event for anyone passionate about shaping a sustainable future for the built environment. Visitors can discover cutting-edge innovations, hear from industry leaders and connect with professionals across the entire supply chain.

From interactive exhibits to groundbreaking ideas, Futurebuild 2025 offers a unique opportunity to gain actionable insights, find new solutions and make a lasting impact.

For three days in March, the entire supply chain will come together to showcase innovative solutions, be inspired and share knowledge that will drive sustainable construction and help us reach our collective goal of net zero.

For 20 years Futurebuild’s purpose has centred around promoting sustainability, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of innovation in sustainable building, fostering collaboration within the industry and inspiring positive change in construction methods to create a more sustainable built environment.

Walking the talk

As an event Futurebuild doesn’t just talk the talk; it ‘walks the talk’ by implementing its own sustainable practices. It removes the largest waste stream associated with exhibitions by removing 9,000m2 of aisle carpets, and discourages exhibitors from using traditional carpet in their stands. Feature areas and shell scheme stands now use

REWIND carpet, which requires 85% less energy to produce compared to traditional event carpets.

All signage is 100% recyclable and there are no printed guides – they have been replaced by a downloadable app – and there is also a full range of ethically-sourced catering items, including the use of ExCeL catering’s new drinks cup, Cupapeel: one of the most sustainable cups available on the market.

The organisers are also encouraging as many people as possible to use public transport to travel to and from the event, including the Elizabeth Line for those travelling from London itself. Cyclists are catered for by the provision of extra storage.

Join the retrofit revolution

Co-located with Futurebuild is the National Retrofit Conference & Expo, offering a chance to be part of the movement that is shaping the future of the built environment. With retrofitting at the heart of achieving net-zero goals, the event offers unparalleled access to the latest solutions, innovations and expert knowledge.

According to the organisers: “Whether you’re involved in housing, commercial buildings or infrastructure, the National Retrofit Conference & Expo brings together the top experts, products and services in one place: giving you the tools to transform your projects and meet sustainability targets, discover new technologies, meet key industry players and explore real-world solutions to retrofit challenges.”

There is also the Big Retrofit Challenge, where innovators will present groundbreaking ideas to solve the most pressing retrofit challenges. Entry to both events is free. Register at www.futurebuild.co.uk q

RAAC REMOVED FROM ONLY 10% OF AFFECTED SCHOOLS, LIB DEMS DISCOVER

[ IN RESPONSE TO A QUESTION by Liberal Democrat MP Munira Wilson, tabled in November, the government has revealed that reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) is yet to be removed from 90% of affected schools, and it may take up to five years to mitigate the problem.

Grants allocated by the government have removed RAAC from 30 schools out of the 237 known to have been affected, the answer from Stephen Morgan, Under-Secretary of State for Early Education, revealed. A further 122 have been included on the School Rebuilding Programme, which Mr Morgan admitted will take three to five years to complete.

According to the Liberal Democrats: “RAAC was the cause of three sudden roof collapses in UK schools in 2023, after which the government pledged funding to remove the material. But it seems that 207 schools of the 237 identified to contain the dangerous material are yet to have it removed.”

In his answer Mr Morgan said: “Where the presence of RAAC has been confirmed, the government is funding its removal from schools and colleges in England. The department has committed to resolving this problem as quickly as possible, permanently removing RAAC either through grant funding or the School Rebuilding Programme. Permanently removing RAAC may involve

refurbishment of existing buildings or rebuilding affected buildings.”

The Liberal Democrats are pressuring the government to set out a plan to speed up the School Rebuilding Programme, so that fewer students see disruption.

Munira Wilson MP said: “Thousands of children are studying in dangerous schools or inadequate temporary buildings, with the timeline for repair stretching on for years. This generation of young people saw unprecedented disruption to their education under COVID, so that 90% of schools are yet to see action to remove RAAC is deeply concerning.

“The Conservatives left our school buildings falling apart. This government must act swiftly to end the crumbling schools scandal, and it seems that neither the RAAC removal grants nor the School Rebuilding Programme are delivering with the urgency we need.

“The government must set out a plan to speed up the School Rebuilding Programme, so that students across the country can get back to their classrooms, halls and sports and arts facilities.”

It has since been reported that the Department for Education has awarded a contract to consultancy PwC to ‘investigate and analyse integrity threats in schools built after the Second World War’.

According to a report in Construction News, PwC is expected to present its final findings in early 2026. q

WHAT SOURCE OF PRIDE CAN BE FOUND ON THE STREET WHERE YOU LIVE?

Chris Stokes takes an affectionate look at street furniture

[AN OFTEN LITTLE-REGARDED

component of urban living is the street furniture that adorns our outdoor environment.

Producers Miko describe the practical aspects of street furniture thus: “Street furniture has a range of uses but is generally there to either keep people safe, influence road user behaviour or enhance the look of a building. For example, traffic lights or bollards keep road users and pedestrians safe whilst bin sheds keep unsightly rubbish out of view and secure until it can be removed.”

Although in some cases the many objects marking our progress may seem to be anything but furniture, many of them do have functions that reflect the furniture in our homes. Benches to rest the legs of the weary are an obvious candidate, but how many of us have waste bins in our living rooms, telephone tables in our halls and letter racks for postal items?

It’s true telephone boxes are becoming redundant as communications facilities, but such is their enduring attraction – particularly the iconic K2 and K6 models, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in 1932 to mark the Silver Jubilee of King George V – they are objects to be treasured and repurposed.

At the end of last year Preston City Council began the restoration of its line of nine boxes outside the former Post Office – the largest line-up of the boxes in the country and listed Grade 2. They are to be returned and used as art installation and are pictured below being loaded onto a truck for transportation to the workshop.

In Bristol a series of artworks in a new public space depict a phone box squeezed into a grotesque shape, and a traditional pillar box tied in a knot.

They are, of course works of art, designed for their aesthetic appeal: a less practical but nonetheless often treasured form of street furniture. The many works of public art that grace public spaces can be admired or detested. They may raise a wry smile from some passers-by, or a fist from others. What is almost universal is that they reflect the culture of the place they are installed.

Street furniture can be a living thing as it graces our living spaces.

Planters offer a breath of fresh air in our cities, in the same way that Victorian parks were seen as ‘the lungs of the cities’. They are often nurtured by willing armies of volunteers demonstrating their pride in their local area.

And it is civic pride that keeps these objects in good condition. Overgrown planters, dull and dirty sculptures and vandalised signage cast local authorities in an unfavourable light, which transfers to the general impression of the locality. While volunteers may do their best, in many cases professional maintenance is required. Gleaming sculptures and blooming flowers offer an attractive welcome, as well as lifting the spirits of locals.

An exemplar of the impact a well-maintained piece of public art can have on the public persona of an institution it graces is the sculpture which graces our front cover. Placed at the entrance to City, University of London in Northampton Square, it has been meticulously maintained in a state of high polish by experts from Manchester-based Ace Polishing Services (APS).

Modern design practices are often incorporated into practical elements of street furniture: maybe not always as distinguished as a Giles Gilbert Scott design but reflecting the latest in design trends. In recent years there has been an upsurge in the use of modular elements in street furniture, reflecting modern methods of construction.

Reflecting contemporary thinking has always been a hallmark of street furniture. In the 21st century that can be seen in the use of bollards to separate traffic from pedestrians in de-trafficked areas and –as has been seen in recent issues of Construction National – adding aesthetic touches to sustainable drainage systems.

From the ornate gas lamps of the Georgian era to modern environmental concerns, street furniture tells the story of the development of urban areas. What will the future hold? q

SPADES GO IN GROUND AT DORSET HOSPITAL BUILDING

[ROYAL Bournemouth Hospital has started the main construction phase of the Coast Building, a state-of-the-art ward and catering block that will expand patient capacity and elevate University Hospital Dorset’s (UHD) services as part of the national New Hospital Programme.

The Coast Building will feature 110 new beds across four levels, a larger kitchen and catering facility and modular, adaptable spaces designed to meet evolving healthcare needs. Spanning 10,800m2, the facility also reflects a commitment to sustainability, with renewable energy supported by photovoltaic panels.

The building was named following a consultation with the hospital’s staff and captures the spirit of UHD’s coastal identity – representing a welcoming ‘hospital by the sea’.

At the ground-breaking ceremony on 6 November (pictured), UHD’s chief executive Siobhan Harrington welcomed guests and extended special thanks to the hospital’s principal contractor, Darwin Group, along with local MP Tom Hayes and Darren Crook CBE, programme delivery director of the New Hospital Programme.

Ms Harrington said: “This project is an exciting step forward for our hospitals and the communities we serve across Dorset.

“The Coast Building will not only increase our capacity to care for patients, but also reinforce our commitment to providing a modern,

adaptable and sustainable healthcare environment. We are deeply grateful to everyone involved in bringing this vision to life.”

Darren Crook CBE commented: “It has been an absolute privilege to mark the official start of construction works for these important new facilities – a huge thank you to all those involved in helping the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, including those within the wider New Hospital Programme, achieve this important and major milestone.”

Nick Dawe, director of strategy and transformation at Darwin Group, added: “It’s been a pleasure to witness the first spade in the ground at Royal Bournemouth Hospital and to hear about the positive impact these new facilities will bring to patient care and staff experience. We’re excited to continue our close collaboration with the Trust to complete this project successfully.”

The Coast Building is a key component of a broader £500m transformation across UHD’s sites. The project is comparable in height to the landmark BEACH Building on the Royal Bournemouth site and will support the hospital’s commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction.

The construction work has been designed to minimise disruptions to the site over the duration of the project and is planned to open towards the end of 2025. q

CURVED STRUCTURE IS COMPANY’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE TO DATE

[ALGECO UK has completed one of its most distinctive buildings ever for a UK client, having put the finishing touches to a two-floor GRIDSERVE Electric Forecourt in a structure with four curved sides.

The building, in Stevenage, has been completed in just 11 weeks by Algeco UK on behalf of GRIDSERVE, which was looking for a building to sit alongside electric vehicle chargers at Knebworth Estate, just off the A1, which was identified as a critical location for volume electric car users.

The ground floor of the building has 4,247ft2 of space and features a grocery retail outlet and coffee shop to keep drivers busy while their cars are charging. There's enough space for 30 vehicles including two accessible spaces and two parent-and-child spaces.

Level two of the building, with 4,236ft2 of space, contains an EV experience area and airport-style lounge.

Algeco UK is a leading provider of permanent modular buildings, temporary accommodation and storage containers, delivering construction expertise to diverse sectors including retail, commercial, industrial, education, health, defence and justice and many more.

GRIDSERVE is best known for opening the UK’s first Electric Forecourt in Braintree in 2020 and has since opened Electric Forecourts in Norwich and London Gatwick Airport.

The structure created for GRIDSERVE in Stevenage is based on Algeco's IBEX modular unit and built at its Carnaby factory. However, it is the first of its type for any client with all four sides being curved.

Senior design manager Paul Beard explained that the curved sides of the building created new challenges as it tested the tolerance of the steel used, before finding a solution to ensure it was as strong as the rest of the structure.

“The curves to all four sides of the building pose many challenges with tolerances experienced while curving the hot-rolled frames at temperatures exceeding 500 degrees,” he said. “The external cladding also has to be millimetre perfect to achieve the desired aesthetics.”

Julian Foster, chief operating officer of GRIDSERVE, said: “Being able to deliver reliable charging quickly and efficiently helps us on our mission to give drivers the confidence to switch to EV.

“However, building an Electric Forecourt is not just about infrastructure; it’s about paving the way for a sustainable future. This project demonstrates our commitment to innovation, net zero energy and a greener world for generations to come.” q

IS COPPER THE FUTURE FOR FIRE-RESISTANT PLUMBING?

The fire safety landscape has experienced significant change in recent years. Some high-profile incidents highlight the critical importance of using fire-resistant materials and implementing enhanced safety measures for both residential and commercial structures.

A key aspect of the evolving Fire Safety Standard – and among the most critical – has been the widespread adoption of non-combustible materials in construction. The choice of materials has become a key focus in modern construction projects.

Here, the Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP) explores the latest progress to improve fire safety in buildings and how copper positions itself as the gold standard for the built environment.

[NON-COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS, by definition, do not burn or support the spread of fire. They therefore play a key role in reducing the risk of fire ignition and slowing its spread throughout a building, minimising the potential for injury or loss of life and reducing the overall damage to the structure.

The 2024 revision to regulation limits the restriction on combustible material use to external walls, ancillary areas and kitchens. However, a critical risk remains in the use of plastic piping for heating and plumbing, due to its combustibility and potential to release toxic fumes.

To address that, regulation must evolve and recognise copper and other metals for their superior fire resistance, if a safer future is to be created for internal building systems.

The fire consultation forum

In response to growing concerns about fire risks, the Fire Sector Federation recently launched its fire consultation forum, which aims to enhance communication, share knowledge and foster collaboration among key stakeholders within the fire safety sector. The initiative brings together a diverse range of groups, including government departments, fire safety professionals, insurance bodies and the construction industry, to ensure a more co-ordinated approach to fire-related regulations.

The forum aims to ensure the implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at improving safety, accountability and compliance within the construction sector. It mandates the registration of high-risk buildings and clarifies the roles of accountable persons. By systematising fire safety measures across the industry, the act strengthens long-term resilience and accountability, helping to create safer built environments.

The goal is simple but vital: to create safer, more resilient buildings by improving how fire safety information is shared and policies are developed. As part of that shift, the materials used in construction have come under greater scrutiny.

Are modular homes fire safe?

With developers under pressure to meet government housebuilding targets, modern methods of construction such as modular homes offer a quick and efficient solution and have become popular in the industry. They are prefabricated off-site and then assembled on location, making them an attractive option for meeting urgent housing demand. However, their fire safety is just as important as their quick installation – especially with highrise buildings.

With modular homes on the rise, recent research by Harlow Consulting and Edinburgh Napier University, published by the Ministry of Housing, has highlighted fire safety concerns with volumetric modular construction.

The report notes the lack of a standard fire testing methodology for those buildings. While there is no definitive evidence on whether fires are more likely in modular buildings, the use of combustible materials in voids could lead to more severe consequences if fire and smoke spread

quickly, unless mitigated by proper design and installation.

It is essential to evaluate whether modular homes are equipped with fire-resistant features that can prevent the rapid spread of fire and protect residents in the event of an emergency.

What is the role of plumbing systems in improving building fire safety?

Particularly in high-rise buildings and residential complexes, fireresistant materials like non-combustible cladding, piping and insulation are critical in developing buildings that can withstand a fire and contain it within a limited area.

Among the most overlooked elements in fire safety are the systems used within buildings, such as plumbing. Recently, plastic pipes have become a common choice for plumbing; however, the flammability of plastic materials is a major cause for concern.

Many plastics, including polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene and multi-layer composite pipes, burn quickly when exposed to fire and can release toxic fumes that fuel the blaze and pose risks to human health. Those plastics not only catch fire quickly but melt and drip, exacerbating the spread of fire.

That is where copper comes in as a vital material for improving fire safety. Copper is a non-combustible material that can help prevent the spread of fire in critical areas like plumbing systems. The metal has a high melting point of 1,085°C – far exceeding the temperature of most building fires – and does not catch fire easily or release harmful gases when exposed to high heat.

Additionally, copper pipes have a low thermal expansion coefficient, meaning they expand at a slower rate than most other building materials when exposed to heat. That makes copper particularly valuable in fire situations, as it retains its structural integrity for longer, helping to prevent further damage or catastrophic failure. The properties of copper make it a vital component of fire safety, particularly in modern buildings, where fast and reliable evacuation is key to saving lives.

The future of modern construction

As the construction industry faces increasing pressure to meet heightened fire safety standards, the adoption of non-combustible materials such as copper is essential. The importance of these materials cannot be overstated, especially in the context of modular homes.

The future of fire safety lies in a holistic approach – one that incorporates regulatory compliance and establishment, with a deeper understanding of the materials and systems that go into creating safe buildings and homes. By replacing plastic pipes with copper in buildings, installers can significantly reduce the risk of fire spreading through the building's infrastructure. As fire safety standards evolve, copper has the potential to revolutionise building safety. So, when will it become the standard for plumbing and infrastructure? q

• To learn more about fire safe materials in construction visit the website www.cuspuk.com/fire-safety

MEETING BRINGS FORTH STORIES OF ACHIEVEMENT AND CAUTIONARY TALES

[ EARLY IN NOVEMBER the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) hosted its annual Elevation UK event at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel, celebrating safety advancements, diversity and technological innovations in powered access.

With a strong focus on promoting safe practices and advancing training standards, and fostering inclusivity, the event highlighted IPAF’s on-going commitment to creating a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone in the powered access industry.

Opening the event, Lisa Bailey, IPAF’s head of HR, reflected on the success of the Women in Powered Access (WIPA) initiative, launched in 2022 by Karin Nars, IPAF’s first female president.

Since its inception, WIPA has worked to recognise and celebrate the contributions of women in the powered access industry, while also providing clear pathways for women looking to start or advance their careers in the field. The initiative has not only increased visibility for women in powered access but has also opened doors for networking, mentorship and career development.

Richard Whiting, IPAF’s UK market general manager, officially opened the conference by welcoming IPAF CEO and managing director Peter Douglas onto the stage. Douglas presented an update on IPAF’s recent achievements, noting a 7% increase in both membership and PAL Card issuance compared to 2023. In the UK alone IPAF has seen a 5% rise in membership and a 4% growth in PAL Card issuance, with further expansion anticipated before the end of the year.

Highlighting the success of the ePAL app, Peter Douglas pointed out that 65% of PAL cards are now issued digitally. Launched in 2021, the app has grown significantly, now boasting over 750,000 downloads across 205 countries, with the UK and Ireland leading adoption.

“Promoting and enabling the safe, effective use of powered access worldwide – that’s IPAF’s mission,” he emphasised. “We

do this in many ways, but most importantly, IPAF is run by its members, for its members.”

Peter then introduced the upcoming IPAF Operator Course, set to launch in January. Designed to enhance operators’ all-round learning experience, the course will include new modules, such as Introduction to MEWPs and Safe Operations, tailored to meet evolving safety standards.

Steve O’Brien, MEWP compliance team supervisor at Select Plant Hire, captivated the audience with insights into the importance of MEWP compliance, highlighting both the legal and safety implications. He echoed Peter Douglas’ emphasis on accident reporting, encouraging members to log all types of incidents, including near misses, into IPAF’s Accident Reporting Portal to help identify trends and improve safety.

Steve also warned against the rise in counterfeit PAL Cards and fake training certificates, which can compromise safety on worksites.

Ben Hirst, director and founder of Horizon Platforms, delivered a thought-provoking presentation, in which he made a commitment to the powered access industry he loves and emphasised the transformative potential of storytelling to improve safety and drive meaningful change.

In his presentation, Ben shared a personal and eye-opening account from his time leading Horizon Platforms. The story, which is now at the heart of IPAF's #ShareYourStory campaign, serves as a reminder of how real-world experiences can enhance training, improve safety awareness and ultimately save lives.

Ben recounted an incident that occurred on a brisk morning in March 2021 at Horizon's facility in West Yorkshire.

SCAFFOLDING BOOTCAMPS OFFER JOB-READY TRAINING

"At 5:15am a driver team was preparing a 26-tonne vehicle for a delivery to Manchester. Despite being trained to appropriate safety standards and using recognised good practices at the start of the job, a lapse occurred. A JLG Power Tower lift, weighing over 340 kilogrammes, was incorrectly loaded without the proper safety measures. The winch was detached early, and the lift was left unsecured on the vehicle, relying only on the pedestrian brake to keep it in place. Had the PAV collided with anyone at the base of the ramp, the consequences could have been catastrophic.

[ THE National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has partnered with City & Guilds Training to offer Skills Bootcamps funding for scaffolding training. The partnership covers courses run in Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) centres, including Parts 1 and 2, the Advanced Scaffolder Course and New Entrant as part of an upskilling programme for scaffolding operatives.

Funded by the Department for Education, as part of the government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, the Skills Bootcamps provide a range of flexible training options targeting specific industries and are aimed at equipping individuals with skills for working in sectors with high job demand, providing learners with job-ready skills.

The City & Guilds Training scaffolding Skills Bootcamps are available in partnership with the NASC and CISRS and offer 70-90% funding for the approved courses. They are open to members and non-members – to show NASC’s commitment to the broader sector. The fund is anticipated to be over £1m with the approval of the Department for Education.

Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, said: “We strongly support the Skills Bootcamps initiative as an excellent way to upskill talent in the scaffolding and access sector. It is well recognised that we face significant skills shortages across the sector and this significant funding will hopefully play a major part in providing new employment opportunities. Collaborating with City & Guilds Training helps to broaden the availability of training and is part of our commitment to a truly inclusive approach to training across the sector.”

Anyone interested in accessing the Skills Bootcamps should direct potential learners to complete a registration form via cityandguildstraining.com, so they can be directed by the team at City & Guilds Training to the correct centre. q

"What we don’t see from the footage is that the platform was reloaded without proper inspection by a qualified engineer, and the driver headed off to site. It was only after another driver, who was feeling increasingly uncomfortable, reported his concerns to the transport manager that the delivery was, thankfully, stopped before the machine reached its destination. This prevented a potential chain reaction of negative events.”

Ben’s story is now part of an animated video analysis, created by IPAF to illustrate what went wrong and what should have been done differently. The video provides a clear breakdown of the incident and offers a timely example of how storytelling can turn mistakes into wide-reaching, valuable lessons.

Furthermore, Ben hopes the industry can embrace a culture of shared learning and transparency, encouraging colleagues to reflect on their own experiences and contribute to the growing knowledge pool that can prevent future accidents. q

INITIAL SCAFFEX DRAWS GLOBAL ATTENTION

[ ON 29 NOVEMBER Belfast played host to Scaffex24, the inaugural conference and exhibition for the scaffolding profession and the first of its kind in Europe. The event was organised by the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), the national trade body for access and scaffolding in the UK and Northern Ireland.

Scaffex24 included a full conference programme, with leading figures from across the industry discussing opportunity, the needs of buyers, innovation and skills and education, as well as an exhibition with almost 30 firms taking part. In total over 500 visitors attended during the day, with a similar number in the evening for the NASC Ball and Scaffolding Excellence Awards.

NASC CEO Clive Dickin said: “I’m delighted at how the entire industry has responded to this first event, whether they are NASC members or not. There’s no doubt that Scaffex will become a regular fixture in the industry calendar.

“Today marks a turning point for the industry. We’ve already been approached by exhibitors wanting to book bigger stands for next

year’s show. After today, the industry will come together more often to share insights, ideas and innovations in this way.”

As well as lively discussions and keynote presentations, Scaffex24 saw NASC make two major announcements that will also change the industry. It unveiled the game-changing TG30, which promises to do for system scaffolding what TG20 did for tube and fit, and also announced it is adopting the Common Assessment Standard as an optional add-on to its audit.

Scaffex24 drew global attention, with representatives from Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Caribbean and from across Europe attending the conference and exhibition. Visiting dignitaries were keen to see and learn best practice from UK and Northern Irish businesses, who have a world-renowned reputation for excellence in health and safety practices.

The exhibition was followed in the evening by the NASC Ball and Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2024, hosted by acting legend James Nesbitt and a host of special celebrity guests. q

TOWER ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES HALF-CENTURY WITH AWARDS

[IN 1974 a young electrician died after falling from a mobile access tower on a US airbase in East Anglia. Deeply affected by the tragic event, Mike McGuire – at the time employed by Stephens & Carter – was moved to take action. “We need a trade association,” he said. That realisation led to the creation of PASMA, a groundbreaking organisation that, for the first time, saw tower manufacturers working together to advance safety.

It was fitting, then, that Mike McGuire was guest of honour at PASMA's 50th Anniversary Celebration last September, so he could see for himself just how far PASMA has evolved since those early days and how much tower safety has advanced.

During the gala dinner Mike was presented with a PASMA lifetime achievement award. Announcing the award, past chairman Paul Pritchard explained that it was well-deserved for two reasons.

The first was that Mike helped set up PASMA and got everyone together to form the organisation: no easy task! And secondly, he recently donated a significant amount of material for PASMA’s archive, including a 35mm film projector used on early training courses – with all the slides still inside it.

Mike was ‘staggered’ to receive the award. Addressing the audience of PASMA members and supporters, he told them: “You’ve made PASMA what it is. Everybody that followed me made PASMA what it is today.”

PASMA’s 50th anniversary celebration also saw a lifetime achievement award presented to Roger Verallo. “Clever, cheerful, industrious – and the epitome of a gentleman,” were the words used to describe Roger as he accepted the award. In a speech by past chairman Peter Bond, Roger’s unwavering dedication to PASMA and commitment to advancing tower safety was hailed.

Roger has been part of PASMA since the very early years, having recognised the need for manufacturers to work together to make sure towers are safe. His achievements include leading Euro Towers Ltd for over three decades, being elected PASMA chairman a record three times and once serving a PASMA-branded pork pie at a council meeting!

Mike’s and Roger’s awards were presented by Moira Cameron, a retired Yeoman Warder of the Tower of London, making the moments even more special.

Alongside the lifetime achievement awards, a number of individuals and groups who have played the biggest roles in PASMA’s achievements were presented with commemorative gifts. The gift was a quaich, a cup of friendship and a traditional gift in Scotland, where PASMA’s head office is located.

Past chairman Gillian Rutter said: “The thing that stands out for me is the people: the strong characters, the pioneers, the go-getters. Some of them

don’t realise that’s what they are. But they’ve made such changes, such impact on the industry.”

That includes the people who volunteer their time to act as chair of the association, the pioneers and champions who have driven PASMA forward, and the members who embody the spirit of tower safety every day. q

NEW FACILITY WILL BOOST LIGHTNING PROTECTION PRODUCT OFFERING

[LIGHTNING STRIKES and electrical surges disrupt critical operations and cause billions of pounds of damage to structures and equipment each year.

In response to a growing reliance on electronics and data centres, lightning protection product supplier ABB Installation Products is investing £27m in a new facility in Nottingham to meet increased demand for its Furse earthing and lightning protection products.

The new state-of-the-art site is expected to open early next year and will integrate advanced technology, flexible automation, research and testing and digital processes to boost production capacity and enhance efficiency and sustainability.

More than 100 employees will relocate to the new facility from the existing ABB Nottingham foundry, which has continually operated for over a century in the area where Furse originated in 1893. In addition to an expanded footprint, the site will be constructed in line with the BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainable building standards and include efficient equipment and technology, photovoltaic rooftop cells, electric vehicle charging stations and processes centred on reducing waste and energy.

The space will be designed to support collaboration and training, accelerate R&D and drive automation to serve European customers and increase available inventory globally.

Worldwide, an estimated 1.4 billion lightning flashes occur annually, equal to over 42 strikes each second. Even indirect lightning strikes up to a kilometre away can create transient overvoltages and have devastating consequences such as fire, shock hazards, equipment damage and costly outages, resulting in downtime and financial losses.

Furse solutions from ABB are engineered to provide reliable earthing, lightning risk and electronic systems and surge protection, helping safeguard structures and the electrical systems within. The products are used in more than 20 countries across a broad range of applications and environments.

“This important investment builds on 130 years of Furse technology, enabling us to remain at the forefront of earthing and lightning protection and deliver solutions that improve safety and reliability for our customers,” said Khalid Mandri, president of ABB Installation Products. “As part of our global growth strategy, we continue to expand our capabilities and capacity, further strengthening ABB’s manufacturing footprint and supply chain and regionalising production of high-demand electrical solutions customers, installers and distribution partners need.

“Building this site in Nottinghamshire further reinforces our commitment to the industries we serve and to the community where we have operated for more than a century and want to continue to be a leading employer.” q

FINDING AN ATLAS MEMBER COULDN’T BE EASIER

[ATLAS, the Association of Technical Lightning & Access Specialists, publishes an easy-to-use member directory. The association, which represents specialists in the field of lightning protection as well as steeplejacking companies, redesigned the directory in 2023 to make finding members online easier.

ATLAS’s Justin Oxenham wrote: “Using an ATLAS member gives you all the assurances you need. Every new member faces a rigorous application process and they’re then monitored every year to ensure continuing compliance. In the unlikely event of an issue with the work completed, you can also speak with ATLAS for assistance in resolving the matter.

“Finding an ATLAS member is now simpler than ever. Our new member directory is super user-friendly, with options for sorting and filtering to help you find the most suitable member for your project.”

The directory, at atlas.org.uk/find-a-member, can be used to search for:

• Contractor Members who offer lightning protection services

• Contractor Members who offer specialist access or steeplejack

• services

• Associate Members who manufacture and supply products

• Professional Advisors who provide consultancy services

The search can be by name, membership category, service and/ or location. q

Over

MET OFFICE HAS SOME BIZARRE FACTS ABOUT LIGHTNING

[IN THE MIDST OF WINTER it may seem odd to be discussing the effects of lightning – a phenomenon associated in this country with summer and hot weather. The Met Office, however, describes a particular type of storm that occurs in wintry conditions, which can give rise to heavy downpours of snow. The Met Office calls these events ‘thundersnow’. Thundersnow is, of course, unusual because it can only occur in a few months of the year.

The Met Office describes the phenomenon thus: “When thundersnow occurs at night the lightning appears brighter: this is because the light reflects off the snowflakes.

“Interestingly, the snow contained within the thunderstorm acts to dampen the sound of the thunder. While the thunder from a typical thunderstorm might be heard many miles away, the thunder during a thundersnow event will only be heard if you are within two to three miles of the lightning.”

The section on thundersnow is just one of a number of interesting items on lightning on the Met Office website. Another relates ‘10 striking facts about lightning’. Among the interesting snippets is the speed of travel of a lightning strike (270,000 mph) and the site of the most prolific lightning storm – Lake Maracaibo in Venezuela with 40,000 strikes in one night.

Of interest to historians and archaeologists are the glass-like tubes called fulgurite that are formed when lightning strikes a sandy beach, allowing past weather to be explained.

Possibly one of the most bizarre facts is the medieval idea that church bells could fend off lightning strikes. Many church bells bore the inscription fulgura frango, meaning ‘I repel lightning’ and the bells would be rung during a storm: a practice we now know to be hazardous. In fact, between 1753 and 1786 in France, 103 bell-ringers were struck by lightning and killed, resulting in the custom being banned.

Another bizarre fact? Helicopters can cause lightning strikes! For the full list visit the website at www.metoffice.gov.uk

Summertime…and the lightning is striking

It is actually during the summer that there is actually a greater risk of thunderstorms and lightning strikes. That is because they occur in specific conditions, requiring two basic elements – moisture and rapidly-rising warm air. High humidity combines with warm temperatures to create a large amount of warm, moist air that can form a thunderstorm as it rises into the atmosphere.

Adrian Brown of lightning protection experts Lightning Strike Ltd has researched the causes of the increase in storms and explains it in his blog.

In summer, says Adrian, the number of hours of sunlight is higher than during the winter, meaning the sun is heating the earth for a

longer period of time. The laws of physics state that warm air will rise: an important factor for thunderstorms, as the warm air can rise for miles, creating a towering cumulonimbus cloud. Cumulonimbus clouds are also known as thunderclouds, Adrian explains.

“They are usually characterised by their anvil-shaped, icy top and can exist throughout the entire height of the troposphere,” he writes. “The troposphere is the lowest region of the earth’s atmosphere, extending to a height of around 6km to 10km from the earth’s surface, as far as the lower boundary of the stratosphere. Cumulonimbus clouds are the only clouds that can create hail, heavy rain and thunderstorms.

“Thunderstorms develop when the atmosphere is unstable. When warm air exists underneath colder air, it cools and condenses as it rises, forming small droplets of water. When the upward surge of warm air is rapid, the resulting water vapour quickly forms a cumulonimbus cloud. This type of cloud can form in less than one hour.”

That explains the thunderstorm; but why does lightning form? Adrian goes on to explain: “When the warm air continues to rise, larger droplets are formed as the smaller ones combine. They will then freeze to form crystals of ice. When the droplets get heavier and can no longer be supported by the updraught of air, they will fall as hail.

“When the hail moves in the cloud, it rubs against smaller, positively-charged ice crystals, thus picking up a negative charge. This leads to a negative charge forming where the hail collects at the base of the cloud and a positive charge forming at the top of the cloud, where the lighter ice crystals gather.

“The negatively-charged hail is attracted to the earth’s surface and when the attraction is too great, the negative and positive charges will come together, resulting in a flash of lightning – also known as a lightning bolt or a lightning strike.”

Climate change will lead to more lightning strikes

Research has shown that climate change could alter lightning patterns across Europe. The study, by researchers at Newcastle University and the Met Office and published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, found there could be a picture of changing weather patterns.

The researchers found that those changes could lead to an increased risk of wildfires over Northern Europe.

The study’s lead author is Dr Abdullah Kahraman, Senior Researcher in Severe Weather and Climate Change at Newcastle University and visiting scientist at the Met Office’s Hadley Centre.

Dr Kahraman explained that there could be more frequent lightning strikes over mountains and in Northern Europe. However, in areas of Central Europe, there could be relatively fewer lightning hazards.

The researchers say the findings highlight the need to re-evaluate lightning risk to wildfires, properties and human life across Europe.

Co-author Professor Hayley Fowler of Newcastle University School of Engineering, added: “This is just more bad news for critical national infrastructure in northern Europe, after the damning report Readiness for storms ahead? Critical national infrastructure in an age of climate change by the Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy.

“Our paper has highlighted new risks from increases in lightning, previously unknown, which will require increased investment in climate adaptation measures. Further analysis is needed of the potential impact of these increases in lightning on energy and other critical infrastructure systems to enable policies and measures to be produced that are locally and sector-relevant for adaptation planning.” q

CONTRACTS SIGNED FOR NORTH EAST CARBON CAPTURE AND LOW-CARBON ENERGY PROJECTS

[CONTRACTS FOR THE FIRST carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) projects in the UK were signed on 10 December. The East Coast Cluster in Teesside – a project that will capture and store carbon emissions from industries in the region – is now set to start construction in mid-2025, marking the latest milestone in the government’s mission to reignite its industrial heartlands, tackle the climate crisis and aid growth.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “For far too long our industrial heartlands have been held back by 14 years of instability and low growth. Working people deserve better. Today’s investment is proof that this government is taking a different approach by putting growth first and investing in the industries of the future. That means thousands of jobs secured in the North East and across the UK for years to come.

“This is only the start. Our Plan for Change puts more money in working people’s pockets, secures home-grown energy and protects billpayers, so tyrants like Putin can’t attack the living standards of working people again.”

By signing the contracts with industry, the government is proving that its world-leading CCUS business models – developed over years in collaboration with industry – are delivering real results by attracting investment and getting this game-changing technology off the ground.

CCUS is a proven technology that captures carbon dioxide emissions before they reach the atmosphere – storing them safely and permanently deep beneath the seabed and

preventing their contribution to climate change.

Stuart Payne, North Sea Transition Authority chief executive, said: “This is a truly historic day. Carbon storage has been long planned but is now becoming a reality. For a long time we have talked about the possibility of carbon storage; we have often touted the UK’s vast geographic potential of 78GT; we have drawn up plans for a carbon storage economy and we have grasped the prospect of new jobs. Now we are making it happen.”

Work is set to begin in 2025, with one of the first projects – Net Zero Teesside Power: a joint venture between bp and Equinor – estimated to deliver secure low-carbon energy capable of powering up to one million homes from 2028. The deals will unlock £4bn worth of contracts that will be awarded by projects in the East Coast Cluster to supply chains, supporting UK businesses, driving investment in innovative technology and industries, and creating opportunities for local people.

Louise Kingham, bp’s head of UK, said: “These projects represent another step forward for bp’s overall investment plans in the UK. They harness the skills, talent and determination of

an established industrial region and apply them to the UK’s own energy transition.

“We’re proud of the potential of these projects to help stimulate economic growth by supporting thousands of jobs and helping UK companies prosper through the vast supply chains involved, while creating the infrastructure to help major industrial companies with their decarbonisation plans.”

The projects also mark a major boost for the UK economy, with 2,000 jobs set to be supported in the North East initially and tens of thousands more to be supported across the UK in the coming years as the CCUS industry grows.

Alex Grant, UK country manager at Equinor, said: “The UK is a key market for Equinor and we have a history of delivering significant energy provision along its East Coast, transitioning from traditional oil and gas demand to renewables and low carbon options including CCS and hydrogen.

“This is a major step for both Equinor and the UK, helping to decarbonise the country’s industrial heartlands and achieve its net zero ambitions whilst providing jobs and supply chain opportunities.” q

RESEARCH FINDS HEAT PUMPS OUTPERFORM TRADITIONAL FUELS IN THE REAL WORLD

[A GROUNDBREAKING STUDY analysing real-world performance data for heat pumps across the UK has revealed that both ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) and air source heat pumps (ASHPs) deliver substantial efficiency gains over traditional gas and oil boilers, with GSHPs offering even greater long-term performance advantages.

The report, In-Situ Heat Pump Performance – Analysis of Ofgem Data 2017–2022, funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Renewable Energy Consumer Code and the Ground Source Heat Pump Association, assessed data from over 1,700 heat pump installations monitored between 2017 and 2022.

Heat pumps outperform gas and oil boilers: Both GSHPs and ASHPs achieved Seasonal Performance Factors (SPFs) well above fossil fuel heating systems, which typically operate with an efficiency of around 0.9 to 0.95.

The research found that GSHPs achieved an average SPF of 3.24, rising to 3.31 for the most recent installations in 2022 – demonstrating their ability to justify the higher initial investment with greater payback over time. One in three GSHPs achieved an SPF of 3.5 or higher.

ASHPs also delivered significant energy savings, achieving an average SPF of 2.65, with nearly 30% of systems performing at SPF 3.0 or higher.

The study highlights the fact that heat pumps, both ground and air source, are essential for achieving the UK’s net zero ambitions. GSHPs, while requiring higher initial capital investment, deliver superior longterm efficiency, ensuring lower operating costs and faster payback periods for consumers.

At the same time, ASHPs remain a widely accessible and effective solution for reducing carbon emissions and energy bills.

Ken Gordon, CEO of the Ground Source Heat Pump Association, commented: “This research demonstrates that heat pumps are an exceptional alternative to fossil fuel heating.

“Both ground and air source systems provide impressive efficiency gains, but the additional upfront investment in ground source heat pumps pays off through significantly higher long-term performance and cost savings. With the right support heat pumps can drive the energy transition and help consumers cut bills and carbon.”

The findings support the call for continued investment and support for both technologies, ensuring that homes and businesses can benefit from sustainable, efficient heating systems that deliver real-world performance far exceeding traditional gas and oil boilers.

The report can be found at gshp.org.uk q

NAO REPORTS ON CLADDING REMEDIATION PROGRESS

[ PUBLISHING A TARGET DATE for the completion of dangerous cladding remediation works and providing greater transparency on remediation performance are two key recommendations arising from a new National Audit Office (NAO) report, published on 4 November.

The NAO’s recommendations feature in its first report on the government’s remediation portfolio since five different programmes were brought together into a single portfolio in 2023. The report follows the publication of the Grenfell Inquiry in September, which examined the root causes of the fire in June 2017 that resulted in the deaths of 72 people.

The NAO examined how well the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) is maximising the identification of unsafe buildings, driving progress with remediation works and managing taxpayers’ exposure to related costs.

The government has significantly changed the types of buildings within scope for its programmes, and its approach to remediation, as the scale and impact of the cladding problem has become clearer. It now has programmes to address dangerous cladding for all the estimated 9,000 to 12,000 buildings over 11 metres it considers need remediating.

In its Background to the report, the NAO says: “However, the scale of the cladding crisis has proved much bigger than the government initially understood, and its interventions have expanded as a result. For the many thousands of residents who have been living in fear of fire, facing costly remediation bills, struggling to access mortgage finance or affordable insurance, or unable to move, leaseholder protections and the promise of a way forward for all buildings over 11 metres are welcome.”

With a potential 7,200 buildings or more (up to 60%) still to be identified, many people still do not know when their buildings will be made safe, contributing to residents suffering significant financial and emotional distress, the NAO says.

While building owners are responsible for fixing their buildings, engagement with government’s grant programmes is voluntary. As the NAO previously reported, incomplete building records, construction materials that differ from those on plans and difficulties tracing owners can make identifying affected buildings difficult.

The report found that, in total, it will cost an estimated £16.6bn to fix unsafe cladding on all buildings over 11 metres in England.

MHCLG expects to provide £9.1bn of that, with the remainder funded by developers who have agreed to remediate buildings they developed, private owners and social housing providers.

To keep taxpayer contributions within a £5.1bn cap over the long-term, MHCLG plans to recoup £700m through refunds from developers for remediation works the taxpayer has already funded, and around £3.4bn from a new Building Safety Levy.

The levy will be paid by developers on new developments, though MHCLG is yet to confirm payment mechanisms. It does not expect to introduce the levy until autumn 2025 at the earliest.

As MHCLG and other bodies investigate buildings at risk, they are gathering data about buildings on a national scale, which may support future government priorities, such as net zero ambitions.

Gareth Davies, head of the NAO, commented: “Seven years on from the Grenfell Tower fire, there has been progress, but considerable uncertainty remains regarding the number of buildings needing remediation, costs, timelines and recouping public spending. There is a long way to go before all affected buildings are made safe, and risks MHCLG must address if its approach is to succeed.

“Putting the onus on developers to pay and introducing a more proportionate approach to remediation should help to protect taxpayers’ money. Yet it has also created grounds for dispute, causing delays.

“To stick to its £5.1bn cap in the long run, MHCLG needs to ensure that it can recoup funds through successful implementation of the proposed Building Safety Levy.” q

LONDON COUNCIL TAKES ACTION TO FORCE REMOVAL OF ACM CLADDING

[ TOWER HAMLETS COUNCIL has secured a Remediation Order requiring owners to remove dangerous ACM cladding from their high-rise building in Stepney. The council is the first local authority in the country to bring a legal action of this kind against a freeholder of a private building.

The Order requires the building owners to replace ACM cladding on the building, install new cavity barriers and replace combustible insulation. Failure to carry out the work within a set time frame could see the matter being enforced with permission of the County Court, which includes contempt of court and the possibility of an unlimited fine or prison sentence.

The Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets Lutfur Rahman said: "It is shocking that

seven years after the devastating Grenfell Tower fire there are still high-rise buildings clad in ACM in this country. I believe everyone deserves to live in a safe and secure home in Tower Hamlets and this action proves we will do everything within our power to get this.

"I am proud of what we have achieved, and it is due to the hard work and dedication of officers. This is the first action of this kind, but it will not be the last. We are taking this approach with other private building owners who are failing to remove dangerous cladding from their buildings and we expect to secure more Orders in the near future."

Tower Hamlets is one of the most densely populated and built-up boroughs in the country.

For privately-owned residential buildings, the council's role is to monitor remediation and report to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. In cases where there are delays to remedial works starting, the council can intervene using the most appropriate course of action. In this case the council used powers available under the Housing Act 2004 and Building Safety Act 2022 to enforce the remedial works. It applied for a Remediation Order at the First-Tier Tribunal Property Chamber and secured an agreement on 18 November.

Officers are currently working on securing more Remediation Orders against freeholders of other high-rise buildings where progress has stalled. q

HSE MARKS 50 YEARS AS NATION’S SAFETY GUARDIAN

[ON 1 JANUARY the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – the national regulator for health and safety in Great Britain – celebrated its 50th anniversary. Created by the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, the HSE was officially launched on 1 January 1975.

For the past 50 years it has played a central role in reducing workplace death and injury, helping Great Britain become one of the safest places in the world to work. In 1974, 651 employees were killed at work; HSE’s latest annual statistics for 2023/24 show that number had reduced to 138.

Sarah Albon, chief executive of HSE, has said that despite the transformation of Britain’s workplaces over the past half century, the mission of the regulator remains as relevant as ever.

Sarah said: “Over the past half century the Health and Safety Executive has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work. As we look ahead to the next

50 years, we recognise there is still much for HSE to take on.

“We’re proud of our successes over the last five decades, but the fact remains that any work-related death is a tragedy, and there are still far too many workers suffering ill-health brought about by work activity.

“In 2022 we launched our 10-year strategy, Protecting People and Places, to build on HSE’s strong foundations and address our current and future challenges. So today, HSE’s role goes beyond worker protection to include public safety assurance on a range of issues. Recent years have added new responsibilities, such as becoming the appointed Building Safety Regulator and playing an extended role in chemical regulation post Brexit.

“It is hard to foresee what the world of work will look like in the next 50 years but, as ever, our fundamental principle will continue to be to make sure that those who create risk take

IOSH CALLS FOR MORE ACTION ON OCCUPATIONAL LUNG CANCER

[

THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE will continue to die every year from lung cancer caused by workplace exposures if more isn’t done to protect people at work. That’s the stark warning from the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) during Lung Cancer Awareness Month in November.

With more than 7,000 people dying annually from work-related lung cancer and mesothelioma in Great Britain, IOSH says it’s crucial that action is taken. That includes businesses having strong preventative measures in place.

November also marked 10 years since the beginning of IOSH’s No Time to Lose occupational cancer campaign. It highlighted the risks of cancer-causing workplace carcinogens, including asbestos, respirable crystalline silica and diesel engine exhaust emissions, and provided guidance for employers and employees on how to prevent exposures.

According to the Health and Safety Executive, of the 12,000 lung disease deaths in Great Britain every year that are linked to past exposures at work, 20% are asbestos-related lung cancer and 24% are non-asbestos-related lung cancer. A further 20% are from mesothelioma, a form of cancer almost always caused by asbestos, which mostly affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body.

Ruth Wilkinson, head of policy and public affairs at IOSH, said: “Ten years on from launching No Time to Lose, we recognise that this issue hasn’t gone away. In fact, when we talk about these statistics, they include workers who were exposed previously and they also include young people who are coming into workplaces now, who may not be aware of the risks they face and how they can protect themselves. So, our need to take action and prevent exposure continues.

“Unlike an accident in the workplace, the impact of exposure to these carcinogens will usually not be noticeable for many years due to the latency period – this can be decades afterwards. But those impacts can be lifelimiting and life-ending, so it’s crucial this is taken seriously and that all workers are protected.

“That is why we are calling on businesses to ensure they do everything they can to prevent exposures and prevent more people and their families from suffering.” q

responsibility for controlling risk, and those who fail to do so will be held to account.

“We will continue to work with businesses, with industry, with other regulators and with government, to enable strong economic growth, while we continue to deliver our founding principles as we work to protect people and places.”

Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, commented: “I’m delighted to wish a very happy 50th anniversary to the Health and Safety Executive.

“Over the last half-century this organisation has been at the heart of efforts to protect people and places across Britain: I would like to thank them for this vital work.

“As we support more people to get into work through our Get Britain Working white paper, and as we move to strengthen protection for workers, their mission will be as important as ever – now and long into the future.” q

COMPANY FINED OVER WIND FARM DEATH

[AN ENGINEERING COMPANY has been fined after a labourer died during the construction of a wind farm on the Shetland Islands. Liam MacDonald, from Tain in Ross-shire, lost his life on the morning of 5 June 2022 while removing dried concrete from a skip at the Viking site on Upper Kergord.

Mr MacDonald, an agency worker who had started working on the site just over a month earlier, had been using a hammer to chip away the concrete when the skip’s bale arm fell on top of him.

The 23-year-old was found motionless with the skip’s bale arm pinned against his chest, which led to an alarm being raised at the site. Colleagues subsequently performed CPR on Mr MacDonald, before administering a defibrillator, but he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene by the emergency services.

A HSE investigation found the company had failed to identify the risks of the bale arm falling and failed to put in place a safe system of work to ensure that anyone using, maintaining or cleaning the skip would be protected from harm.

Wendy Robson, Mr MacDonald’s mother, said: “Liam loved life, his family and friends. He was just at the start of his adult life, still finding who he was, and full of hopes and dreams. We have been robbed of having Liam here today, and in all our tomorrows, and in sharing those dreams with him. We will never meet the children he so wanted to have one day.”

BAM Nuttall Ltd, of Knoll Road, Camberley, Surrey, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) and Section 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £800,000 with a £60,000 victim surcharge at Inverness Sheriff Court on 18 December. q

DIGGER TECHNOLOGY HELPS REDUCE

HS2 EMISSIONS – AND COSTS

[ AN INNOVATIVE PROJECT using continuous data feeds from hundreds of trucks, excavators and other earthmoving equipment to boost efficiency and cut carbon emissions has helped one of HS2’s biggest contractors win a top sustainability award.

EKFB – a joint venture made up of Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and Bam Nuttall – which is delivering some of the largest cuttings and embankments on the new high-speed railway, has been awarded Platinum status by the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS).

Part funded by the Construction Industry Training Board and industry partners, SCSS was set up in 2012 to boost knowledge and collaboration in the built environment.

The new status was awarded in recognition of EKFB’s commitment to sustainable practices, which include the use of the Digital Earthworks programme and improvements to supply chain management.

The Digital Earthworks programme –known as DIGGER (DIGital Graphical Earthworks Reporting) – is a partnership between EKFB and construction equipment supplier Finning to streamline earthmoving. It has already led to a saving of more than £25m for the project by avoiding

unnecessary vehicle movements and cutting fuel consumption.

It makes extensive use of data from 700 earthmoving machines, which are fitted with electronic weight sensors to monitor the millions of cubic metres of rock and earth that needs to be moved across the line’s 80km central section, and telemetry devices that monitor utilisation of machines on site.

That includes graders, loading shovels,

dozers and compactors used on site, as well as trucks and excavators. Antiidling is also a key priority, not only to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and boost productivity, but also as a protective measure to minimise workers’ exposure to black carbon, improving their working conditions and benefiting the local community. That is achieved through the use of telematic data and workforce training. q

ROBOTICS COMPANY SCOOPS INNOVATION AWARD

[THE AWARD for Best Use of Remote Monitoring Technology at this year’s Building Innovation Awards, held in October, went to Invictus Robotics. Co-founded by Sachit Shenai and Osman Zuhayr, Invictus Robotics aims to facilitate safer, more efficient and more sustainable methods of working at height across a variety of industries using aerial robotics. They achieve that through their unique technology stack, Aerial Effector Robot with Adaptive Stabilisation (AERAS).

Comprising at the fundamental level a drone with a robotic arm, AERAS is capable of working autonomously at heights, while reducing more than 90% of costs, emissions and deaths in the construction, utilities and nuclear industries across various vertical levels and numerous applications. Work is currently focused on non-destructive testing applications with their industrial partners, with capacity to cater towards jet washing, painting and object transportation across a number of markets globally.

Invictus Robotics were nominated for six awards at the Building Innovation Awards 2024, the most nominations for any firm at the event. The awards were held on 17 October at The Hilton Deansgate in Manchester and were hosted by comedian Justin Moorhouse.

From the materials and technologies reshaping what is possible, to the contractors and manufacturers adopting modern methods of construction, the Building Innovation Awards highlight the technologies, approaches and projects that are not just boosting productivity and profits – but delivering greener, smarter and safer buildings.

The awards recognise and celebrate the pioneering individuals, organisations and partnerships that are embracing emerging technologies and digital transformation in order to take UK construction to the next level.

Sachit Shenai is currently a Construction Economics and Management MSc student at UCL’s Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction, while Osman Zuhayr completed his studies in MSc Entrepreneurship at UCL in 2023.

Sachit explained the firm’s future aspirations: “We are currently in the process of completing our MKII version of AERAS, whilst simultaneously looking to raise pre-seed funding. Upon completion of MKII, we aim to deploy with our industrial partners and showcase the powers of the technology to the world.” q

CONSTRUCTION NATIONAL WEBSITE AtoZ

Welcome to our A to Z guide of the websites of some of the industry’s leading players. If you are one of our many online readers simply click on any of the logos listed below and you will be automatically directed to that company’s website.

To get your company’s website listed on this page just give us a call on 0161 710 3880 or

Manufacturer and supplier of top quality scaffold towers www.aluminium-scaffoldtowers.co.uk

www.ikoniclifts.co.uk

www.hlnsc.ac.uk SKILLS FOR A GREENER FUTURE Expanding provisions linked to emerging technologies and the reduction of fossil fuels.

STAFFORDSHIRE PREPARES TO WELCOME NEW TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE

[

BUILDING WORK on the new £22.5m Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology (SoTSIoT) is progressing at pace, following licence approval from the Department for Education.

The SoTSIoT Hub will offer industry-standard facilities and equipment for its large number of further and higher education students, including apprentices: offering highly-technical education programmes in engineering and manufacturing, modern methods of construction, health sciences and digital. Led by Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), the SoTSIoT brings together a number of colleges and employers in the region.

As a collaboration between three further education colleges and one university, the IoT will deliver a wide range of flexible post-16 technical education programmes, including T Levels, higher technical qualifications, higher apprenticeships, degrees and professional qualifications.

The core educational delivery partners are Keele University, NSCG, Burton and South Derbyshire College, Stoke-on-Trent

College, South Staffordshire College and Axia Solutions.

The employer partners include Dell, Indurent, MOOG, Siemens and Hitachi. Together, SoTSIoT stakeholders will jointly design, develop and widen education and training opportunities aligned to the latest skills needs of employers, the local, regional and national economy and government priorities for higher technical education.

The new hub building in Stafford has three floors, with conference facilities, a lecture theatre, its own bistro and a wide range of industry-standard equipment.

The ground floor will focus on engineering and manufacturing.

The SoTSIoT will have several robots, together with automation and controls equipment and a product design and innovation space with a state-of-the-art 5-axis CNC machining centre, 3D printers, and measurement and materials testing equipment.

The first floor will focus on modern methods of construction and health sciences, with a wide range of practical teaching spaces –from a mock hospital ward to building information modelling (BIM) suites and surveying equipment.

The second floor will host a variety of digital spaces, including a 7-metre diameter virtual reality cylinder that will revolutionise and modernise the traditional classroom experience. It will be a showcase facility and immersive experience for all students and visitors.

From higher apprenticeships to degree-level courses, the SoTSIoT is well-placed to develop skills and drive ambition for students preparing for their first step into skilled employment, those already in work or those wishing to retrain. q

TO DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS, PARTNER WITH YOUR LOCAL FE

[IF YOU HAVE NEVER WORKED with a further education (FE) provider, maybe now is the time to do so. That is the message from South & City College Birmingham, which is investing heavily in its construction facilities: investment that has been driven by the sector.

As a college it has one of the largest construction campuses in the West Midlands, with over 2,500 construction students from Level 1 up to degree level, apprenticeships and T Levels. This vast talent pool is supported by programmes designed to meet the sector’s changing skills requirements.

Anshu Williams, assistant director of employer engagement, explained: “To prepare our learners for their next steps we have built two houses to emulate real build scenarios where they can develop skills in a traditional 1930s house, and a new build house using new materials with a focus on sustainability and the UK’s drive towards carbon neutrality.

“We are installing a 360-degree augmented reality (AR) room where learners can engage with projects in a safe setting, enabling them to access sites that may not have been physically possible: developing solar panel

The college has built two houses for students to work on: a 1930s house and a new build

and wind turbine programmes alongside our work on electric vehicle infrastructure and the installation of electric vehicle charging points.

“In addition to this we are working with industry specialists to write new apprenticeship programmes, such as the new Heat Network Technician Apprenticeship and the Institute of the Motor Industry, to develop new hydrogen courses.

“This is just a small example of the vital

work FE providers do to ensure that the construction sector has the right skills within their workforce both existing and new. If you want to develop your workforce speak to an FE provider as they have the ability to support your business to grow and enable your business to meet the expectations of the net zero agenda.” q

• For further information visit www.sccb.ac.uk

KIRKLEES COLLEGE WELCOMES FIRST COHORT OF CONSTRUCTION STUDENTS IN DEWSBURY

[

EARLIER THIS YEAR, Kirklees College and Kirklees Council announced an exciting new partnership. The Kirklees Build Project was launched to bring a construction workshop and classroom to the college’s Springfield Sixth Form Centre in Dewsbury.

The facility opened in September 2024 and the college welcomed its first intake of construction students to Dewsbury in many years.

The next phase of the project will see students from Kirklees College working within a live site environment, as the hub moves to a local housing development. Over the coming years students will be offered real-world experience on various construction projects in and around Dewsbury, including the historic Dewsbury Arcade and other aspects of the Dewsbury Blueprint. The project is being funded by grant money allocated to Dewsbury through the government’s Towns Fund.

The project has been in development for two years, following significant growth predictions in the sector by leading construction companies. For example, the Construction Industry Training Board has identified a need for 225,000 additional roles in the sector between 2023 and 2027. Locally, there has also been a significant gap in provision as there are currently no college training facilities for construction trades in North Kirklees.

mean that this new facility will significantly boost North Kirklees’ on-going contribution to the local construction industry. q

Those factors, combined with a sector-wide push to attract a more diverse workforce and develop specialist net zero training provision,

• Applications for construction courses starting in September 2025 at Kirklees College are now open. Apply now by visiting the website at www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk/subjects/construction

FUNDING EXTENDED TO REPLACE GRANDFATHER RIGHTS

[ THE Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has announced a one-year extension of funding to support the Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) in transitioning all Industry Accreditation (IA) cardholders to recognised qualifications. All IA cards issued from 1 January 2020 expired on 31 December 2024 and cannot be replaced using IA.

The transition is needed to meet the Construction Leadership Council’s recommendations which state that all construction industry card schemes must operate with nationally recognised qualifications in place for all occupations. Those affected by changes to IA, also known as grandfather rights, do not need to attend college to get their new qualification. Enhanced grants are available to CITB-registered employers for specific qualifications achieved until 31 March 2026.

To support construction workers’ transition from an IA card to a qualification, CITB have increased the grant for specific supervision NVQ Diplomas/SVQs to £1,250 and specific management NVQ Diplomas/SVQs to £1,500 for achievements from 1 April 2023.

Training providers will work with individuals to get assessors to visit their workplaces to gather evidence of competence – or they have the option to do it remotely. Employers can then claim the grants to get money back for their employees taking the qualifications.

Temporary, non-renewable red cards exist with CSCS and can be used by those waiting to complete their qualification. That means they won’t need to lose access to site and can continue working during that time. Existing qualifications and memberships may also make them eligible for other CSCS cards.

Adrian Beckingham, strategy and policy director at CITB, said: “We are committed to making sure the construction skills system is efficient and effective, which is why we are pleased to be extending the grant and helping to reduce the financial burden on individuals and employers to get qualified in time. With the support and options available, there’s no reason for anyone to not be able to get on site to work while transitioning to recognised qualifications.

“The temporary enhanced grant is just one way in which we are continuing to encourage more people to get qualified for leadership and supervisory positions and fill crucial skills gaps in construction.”

Garry Mortimer, executive director of operations at CSCS, said:

“CSCS welcomes the grant being extended by CITB for those affected by the withdrawal of Industry Accreditation. In addition to the flexible

assessment options available, grant support is a key pillar of the support package available, which has helped reduce the number of active IA cards in circulation from 60,000 to approximately 16,000. Since the original package of support was announced, many IA cardholders have found it a straightforward process to replace their cards using an existing qualification or professional membership or by evidencing their skillsets to an assessor.” q

NEW DATES ANNOUNCED FOR CITB CONSENSUS

[CITB HAS ANNOUNCED new dates for its Consensus process. The procedure will now start on 17 March 2025 and continue until 9 May.

The five-week move allows greater opportunity for CITB to align its upcoming 2025-29 Strategic Plan with the outcomes of the ITB Review.

Usually undertaken every three years, Consensus is the process through which CITB seeks Levy-paying employers’ views and agreement on its plans for generating the Levy and the skills and training it will deliver to the industry. CITB’s core focus for the 2026-29 draft Levy Proposals being consulted on is to ensure that the Levy exemption and reduction thresholds remain current and appropriate.

During Consensus CITB consults at least 11,000 Levy-paying employers. In March 2019, nearly 30,000 employers were liable to pay a Levy. The Levy plays a vital role in investing in the British construction industry, ensuring the development of a skilled workforce to meet the sector's current and future demands.

Tim Balcon, chief executive of CITB, said: “We believe it’s important that, as a body that is led by and accountable to industry, we give employers a full picture of how we intend to support the industry over the life of the Strategic Plan and accompanying Levy Order.

“The publication date of the ITB review is not yet confirmed by the Department for Education (DfE), meaning we cannot yet confirm the publication date of CITB’s Strategic Plan. Consequently, we have revised the start date of Consensus to ensure employers are well informed going into the Consensus process.” q

BUILDING A STRONGER WORKFORCE WITH CHICHESTER COLLEGE GROUP

[ THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY is evolving, and at Chichester College Group they are committed to offering a wide array of training opportunities designed to support employers and employees at every stage of their career journey.

As one of the largest training providers in Sussex, the college provides pathways that not only nurture the next generation of talent but also help upskill the current workforce.

Apprenticeships are an ideal option for employers looking to develop both new and existing staff. They are available for anyone aged 16 or over and can be tailored to various construction disciplines – from bricklaying to quantity surveying, carpentry & joinery to plumbing & heating – ensuring that apprentices gain hands-on experience while earning. Those pathways allow businesses to integrate skilled workers seamlessly into their operations.

For younger learners, T Levels offer a comprehensive and industry-focused alternative to traditional qualifications. Tailored for 16-19 year-olds, those programmes include a mandatory industry placement, giving students real-world experience.

Courses such as design, surveying & planning, bricklaying, and carpentry & joinery ensure that the next generation of construction professionals is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced industry.

Additionally, the college’s commercial courses offer flexible, shortterm training options to help workers stay up-to-date with industry standards. Courses such as C&G 18th edition, electrical vehicle charging installation and domestic retrofitting cater for professionals looking to specialise in niche areas of construction.

For those looking to progress their careers, university-level courses including the HNC in construction management and surveying measuring & digital applications provide an advanced pathway into leadership roles.

Whatever your need, Chichester College Group is there to support your business and workforce. q

• For further information call 01293 442344 or email train@ccgtraining.ac.uk and start building a skilled workforce for the future

BOOTCAMP GIVES LONDONERS A GROUNDING IN WIND ENERGY SKILLS

[SINCE LAUNCHING its pioneering wind energy training courses in November last year, Capital City College (CCC) has welcomed over 130 students to its state-of-the-art facilities at the college’s Enfield Centre.

The current course, Entry to Wind Power Skills Bootcamp for Londoners, is proving incredibly popular with both students and employers. The fully-funded course focuses on helping participants to develop the initial skills required to work in the green energy sector and has been designed to support Londoners in gaining productive employment.

The month-long course is provided in partnership with 3t, the leading training provider for the global offshore wind market and the UK energy sector. The unique groundbreaking programme includes skills related to working in wind energy that are in high demand, such as IRATA rope training which teaches students how to work safely at heights and general safety training.

During the course participants cover specially selected industryrelevant training elements, including:

• GWO Working at Height course

• GWO Advanced Rescue Training IRATA Rope Access

• GWO Basic Technical Training

• GWO Fire Awareness

• GWO Control of Hazardous Energies

• GWO Enhanced First Aid

The Entry to Wind Power Skills Bootcamp has enabled participants to master new skills, with approximately 90% of students who completed the course successfully passing Global Wind Organisation (GWO) assessment elements.

The course also provides the opportunity for students to boost their employability skills, giving them the confidence to seek out and apply for various roles or further training. The course is assessed through a combination of practical exams and a student portfolio of work created over four weeks.

The college’s extensive resources and strong employer partnerships maximise student access to relevant post-training pathways. All students taking part in the course are offered an interview with a good employer, providing a unique opportunity to progress into employment or take on further training as required.

CCC is committed to supporting the UK Government in its aim to cut CO2 emissions. By addressing the needs of both learners and employers through its timely and relevant education offerings, the college seeks to support the wind industry by providing well-rounded initial training for those looking to pursue careers in wind energy. q

• To find out more and apply for CCC’s Entry to Wind Power Skills Bootcamp courses visit the college’s website at www.capitalccg.ac.uk/courses/skills-bootcamps/657/

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IS THE FUTURE FOR SKILLED WELDING PROFESSIONALS

[ THE WELDING CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE at Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) is a pioneering initiative designed to address critical skills shortages in the welding sector. It is the product of a collaboration involving key regional partners, including the South West Institute of Technology and Hinkley Point C (HPC).

The centre’s mission is to provide cutting-edge training that directly aligns with the technical requirements and demands of the welding industry, providing a work-ready talent pool for regional employer partners that have been trained to meet their skills needs.

Matt Tudor, BTC’s vice principal of strategy and partnerships, said: “Collaboration is central to BTC’s response to skills needs in the region and the Welding Centre of Excellence exemplifies this. We have many excellent engineering and manufacturing companies in our region, with one of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects on our doorstep, and our partners identified a critical need for welding skills regionally and nationally. In response, we worked with industry and regional stakeholders to unlock the funding required to build a bespoke facility and create the required training packages.”

Working with industry partners, BTC developed training and assessment packages to address specific skills needs and to ensure a flow of talent into the sector. They extend from intensive 12-week skills bootcamps for novices to advanced courses for more experienced welders seeking to upskill, as well as full apprenticeships on day release and block delivery models, and delivering critical welder competency tests and ISO 9606 codings.

The Welding Centre of Excellence stands as a beacon of innovation and collaboration. By working hand-in-hand with employers,

contractors and key stakeholders, the centre ensures that the South West – and the UK as a whole – remains at the forefront of skilled welding expertise.

For both aspiring welders and those seeking to advance their careers, the Welding Centre of Excellence offers unparalleled training opportunities, positioning them for success in a dynamic and essential industry. As the centre grows, it will continue to play a critical role in shaping the future of welding in the South West and the UK. q

• For more information about BTC’s Welding Centre of Excellence and their training programmes call 01278 455464 or email CoE@btc.ac.uk

ABINGDON & WITNEY COLLEGE LAUNCHES NEW ELECTRICAL APPRENTICESHIP

[AT ABINGDON & WITNEY COLLEGE, their commitment to developing skilled, industry-ready professionals has recently been recognised by Ofsted, with the award of an ‘Outstanding’ rating for their apprenticeship provision.

That achievement reflects the college’s dedication to excellence in education, particularly through a curriculum designed in collaboration with local employers who play a key role in supporting students' journeys.

Employer partnerships are central to the college’s apprenticeship success, enabling them to build industry-relevant programmes that prepare students to thrive in today’s dynamic workforce. From hands-on apprenticeships to collaborative curriculum design, they work together with industry leaders to ensure students receive an education that’s both relevant and impactful.

That collaborative approach led to a milestone achievement in 2023/24, as they proudly ranked second in the country for apprenticeship success rates, significantly surpassing national averages.

To continue meeting the needs of a growing and changing economy, the college is introducing a new electrical installation apprenticeship, which will equip students with the skills needed to work as qualified electricians, taught by industry professionals in state-of-the-art facilities.

For students and employers alike, Abingdon & Witney College offers an exceptional learning experience and an unwavering commitment to building the future workforce. q

• For further information call 01235 216 216 or email the college at apprenticeships@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

INDUSTRY PREPARES TO OPEN ITS DOORS

[ CONSTRUCTION EMPLOYERS across the country have the chance to inspire the next generation of construction workers by demonstrating the excitement of a career in construction and taking young people onto one of their live sites.

Open Doors returns in March and is being delivered by Build UK, in partnership with CITB and CSCS. It is supported by media, community and industry partners who are encouraging construction employers to register their events to take part.

Open Doors offers a unique opportunity for the public to go behind the scenes of live construction sites, offices, factories and training centres across the UK – both in person and virtually.

Employers that register for Open Doors and provide a ‘shop window’ for the industry put themselves in a prime position to attract and retain new workers and demonstrate the benefits of pursuing a career in construction.

apprenticeship starts in the construction industry are employed by companies of fewer than 50 employees, demonstrating how important a strong pipeline of apprenticeships is for smaller construction employers.

Deb Madden, executive director for nations engagement at CITB, commented: “Open Doors provides a wonderful forum for construction employers to engage with the workforce of tomorrow, and for young people to understand the joys and diversity of a career in construction. The industry needs to recruit 50,000 new entrants a year and Open Doors provides a unique opportunity for young people and those looking for a change of career to go behind the scenes and see just what the industry has to offer.

Employers that register their events should consider what interactive experiences and learning opportunities will be most attractive for young people. That could be providing practical demonstrations or having employees explain the differences in their roles and responsibilities.

The event also presents a great opportunity for SMEs in the construction sector to attract new apprentices. Over two-thirds of

“It's also a great opportunity for SMEs to get involved and showcase their sites. A healthy construction industry requires thriving SME employers as they’re crucial to establishing a strong pipeline of apprentices and new entrants.

“I urge construction employers to take up the chance to register their sites for Open Doors 2025, it’s going to be a very worthwhile event.”

Build UK members can register their events free of charge. Find out more at opendoors.construction q

FIFE RETROFIT COURSE AIMS TO LOWER HEATING BILLS

[ IN RESPONSE to rising energy costs, Fife College is running a free domestic retrofitting course – with a focus on sustainability. Run in collaboration with The Verdancy Group, the hands-on workshop is driving energy efficiency and sustainability across Fife. Funded by the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, the course is free to eligible participants.

With monthly sessions running through to March, Domestic Retrofit in Practice offers energy advisors and sustainability advocates invaluable skills and knowledge to retrofit homes for energy efficiency, helping communities reduce household bills and lower carbon footprints.

Sessions cover essential aspects of energy-efficient home retrofitting, from insulation and airtightness to renewable technologies. By helping to reduce waste and introducing renewable technologies, the course promotes long-term environmental sustainability, while addressing issues like fuel poverty. At a time when households are looking to mitigate rising energy prices the course offers immediate solutions.

Aishling O’Sullivan, academic and quality manager in construction craft and low carbon transitions at Fife College, spoke about the development of the programme: “In Scotland, and across the UK, retrofitting isn’t something that’s as well developed as it should be. So we’ve been really keen to know how we can make it work for Fife and what the relevant skills gaps are, and to make sure that we’re developing our training and courses to be relevant to our local communities – supporting them in moving forward.”

Steven Kiakowski, director of The Verdancy Group, discussed the domestic retrofit workshop and its benefits: “This workshop is about

making a real difference for people in Fife. We know how tough rising energy costs are for families, and that’s why we’re committed to helping our communities find practical solutions. By learning how to retrofit homes, participants are gaining skills that can immediately lower energy bills and create warmer, more comfortable homes.” q

COMMUNITY IS ‘CHUFFED’ WITH TRAIN MADE BY NEW CITY COLLEGE CARPENTRY STUDENTS

[ STUDENTS, APPRENTICES and teachers from New City College’s Construction and Engineering Centre in Rainham were proud to officially present a decorative new wooden steam train for display outside their local Tesco supermarket.

The carpentry students designed and built the train, replacing the old one. It will be used as a planter for colourful shrubs and flowers, or for other decorations according to the season.

Each carriage, or planter, of the train is tended to by local Councillor Sue Ospreay and sponsored by local businesses with funds going to charity.

The project was initiated by Stephen Brayshaw, group curriculum director for construction and engineering at NCC, who said: “I noticed the old train was in need of some TLC and thought a rework of the original could be a great project for our Rainham students to get involved with and support the local community and charities.”

As the new train was recently put into place, Councillor Ospreay said: “New City College have done an incredible job. The project is fantastic and has excelled my expectations.

“This is a great college and it shows that you can create great things when people come together. Here is a wonderful example of how students have put their time to excellent use for the good of the entire community.”

Teacher Steven Weatherley said: “The design and construction involved a lot of brainstorming among students studying carpentry at all levels. We wanted them to understand the transferable skills they would have by building a train and then applying those skills to everyday carpentry tasks.

“We also liaised with the plumbing students at the campus regarding pipes and valves. We worked as a team to discuss and bounce ideas off each other, and overcome any challenges that arose.

“It’s been great to show the local community the type of projects we are working on and that we are producing students with excellent construction skills.” q

• For more information visit the New City College website at www.ncclondon.ac.uk

Teacher Steven Weatherly and local councillor Sue Ospreay adjust the train (left); the train being put into place outside Rainham Tesco (right)

INSTITUTES CALL FOR EXEMPTION FOR LEVEL 7 APPRENTICESHIPS

[A BODY representing around 200,000 professionals across the built environment is calling for built environment Level 7 apprenticeships to be exempt from reforms affecting access to the Growth and Skills Levy.

The proposed changes will require employers to fund more of their Level 7 apprenticeships – equivalent to a Master’s degree and often accessed by older or already well-qualified employees – outside of the Levy.

In a statement, the Joint Institutes –representing the Royal Town Planning Institute, the Royal Institute of British Architects, The Chartered Institute of Building and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors – have pressed the Minister for Skills, Baroness Smith of Malvern, to urgently consider the impact changes to Levy funding will have on the sector’s ability to address future skills demand in their contribution

to the government’s growth priorities.

Built environment Level 7 apprentices play a key role in delivering the government’s ‘missionled’ milestones of building 1.5 million homes over the course of this Parliament and the acceleration to achieving net zero.

The Government’s recently published Plan for Change states that to deliver ambitions, it will “require a rate of housebuilding and infrastructure construction not seen in over 50 years”, indicating an increased demand on capacity in an already under-resourced sector.

As noted recently by the Deputy Prime Minister, the Plan for Change will require a crossgovernment approach.

In its statement, the Joint Institutes said: “We strongly urge the government to deliver on that ambition by helping the built environment sector to address the skills shortage.”

Level 7 apprenticeships are an additional access route for people from under-represented groups to participate in built environment professions, ensuring that a wide range of voices and experiences are reflected in the communities and places we create.

The statement continued: “Built environment bodies are deeply concerned about the potential negative impact of a reduction in employer access to the new Growth and Skills Levy to recruit or upskill Level 7 apprentices at a time when there is a clear need to widen access and increase capacity.

“Without access to levy funding, organisations will not be able to support and deliver training for built environment Level 7 apprentices, reducing the sector’s ability to meet the capacity demands of the government’s growth mission.” q

GREEN ADVISORY BODY RETURNS TO EXETER FOR SUMMIT

[ ON 3 OCTOBER the Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP) held its third summit of the year at the Exeter College Future Skills Centre. The event brought together inspiring speakers from across construction and the built environment to discuss the pressing need for closing the skills gap. The event focused on skills on a local, national and international stage, with delegates attending from across the UK and abroad.

The star of the show was the celebration of the Ted Wragg Trust Innovation Competition: an activity promoted across 16 Devon schools seeking to discover students who demonstrate an aptitude for solving complex problems in innovative ways.

GSAP welcomed the winning teams from Exwick Heights and Honiton Community College, recognising their collaboration, impact, innovation and ambition.

A first of its kind, GSAP welcomed guest colleges from Malawi, broadening its wings overseas. The aim of the partnership is to develop the GSAP model in Malawi to encourage public-private partnerships in the country to improve curriculum to meet the needs of local employers.

It follows a recent trip to Malawi by executive director of apprenticeships and partnerships at Exeter College Mike Blakeley, to understand how GSAP, through the British Council, can support colleges at government level to develop a green policy which will outline the country’s plans to respond to the growing need for green skills.

The continuous theme throughout the event focused on the impact GSAP is making across the UK, with the formation of 19 GSAP hubs. Further education colleges up and down the country are adopting Exeter College’s stakeholder model and

implementing regional GSAP hubs to close the skills gap.

As an action led group, GSAP absorbs industry challenges and proactively responds through innovative solutions.

GSAP prides itself on highlighting skills and training opportunities through its dedicated website, supporting new entrants and the industry to easily navigate the green skills sector and quickly identify how GSAP can support them in meeting their skills and recruitment challenges.

Finally, GSAP welcomed its newest members: GSAP South Wales, expertly launched by Matthew Tucker, assistant principal at Coleg y Cymoedd, and GSAP South Yorkshire, brilliantly hosted by Natalie Dodds, academy director of building technologies at The Sheffield College.

Both focused on the key themes of the

GSAP, the actions needed to achieve success, current green skills initiatives, funding and guidance for businesses and what needs to be developed in future. They followed the successful launches of already established groups in Cornwall and the Western Gateway, with more planned throughout the UK over the coming months. q

• To find out about the skills and training opportunities, visit gsap.org.uk/courses/ or email lukemoss@exe-coll.ac.uk. To join your local hub, visit gsap.org.uk/membership/

Construction training courses and/or apprenticeships are available at the following colleges:

Abingdon & Witney College

Tel: 01235 541 111

E: apprenticeships@abingdon-witney.ac.uk

W: www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk

126 Churchill Road, Bicester OX26 4XD

Accrington and Rossendale College

Nelson & Colne College Group

T: 01282 440319 E: apprenticeships@nelsongroup.ac.uk

W: www.accross.ac.uk and www.nelsongroup.ac.uk

Accrington and Rossendale College, Sandy Lane, Accrington BB5 2AR

Bolton College

T: 01204 482000

E: info@boltoncc.ac.uk

W: www.boltoncollege.ac.uk

Deane Road Campus, Deane Road, Bolton BL3 5BG

Bridgwater & Taunton College

T: 01278 655004

E: CSIC@btc.ac.uk

W: www.btc.ac.uk

Bath Road, Bridgwater, Somerset TA6 4PZ

Croydon College

T: 020 8686 5700

E: Admissions@croydon.ac.uk

W: www.croydon.ac.uk

College Road, Croydon CR9 1DX

Exeter College

T: 01392 400500

E: info@exe-coll.ac.uk

W: exe-coll.ac.uk

Exeter College, Hele Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 4JS

Fife College

Tel: 0344 248 0132

E: sales@fife.ac.uk

W: www.fife.ac.uk

Pittsburgh Road, Dunfermline, Fife KY11 8DY

The Isle of Wight College

T: 01983 526631

E: info@iwcollege.ac.uk

W: www.iwcollege.ac.uk

Medina Way, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5TA

Kirklees College

Tel: 01484 437070

E: info@kirkleescollege.ac.uk

W: www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk

Brunel Construction Centre, Old Fieldhouse Ln, Leeds Rd, Huddersfield HD2 1AG

T: 0330 135 9000

E: info@ncclondon.ac.uk

W: www.ncclondon.ac.uk

Epping Forest | Hackney | Havering | Redbridge | Tower Hamlets

Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group

T: 01782 715111 / 01785 223 800

E: info.newcastle@nscg.ac.uk

E: info.stafford@nscg.ac.uk

W: www.nscg.ac.uk

Knutton Lane, Newcastle-under-Lyme ST5 2GB Victoria Square, Stafford ST16 2QR

South Hampshire College Group

> Apprenticeships

> Technical & Professional Training

E: info@shcg.ac.uk

W: www.shcg.ac.uk

South & City College Birmingham

T: 0121 694 5066

E: business.dev@sccb.ac.uk

W: www.sccb.ac.uk

Digbeth Campus, High Street Deritend, Digbeth, Birmingham B5 5SU

CONSTRUCTION’S TOP LEARNERS REVEALED

[ THE WINNERS OF the SkillBuild National Final 2024 have been announced. The announcement followed the competition to find the UK’s top construction trainee talent in Milton Keynes in November. The 75 participating construction trainees went head-to-head over three days, with winners from each of the 10 trades announced on the day.

Following the Regional Qualifiers, which were held at various colleges across the UK earlier this year, the National Final took place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes from 19-21 November. The event attracted over 1,500 visitors and exhibited the variety of skills and career opportunities available within the industry.

Across the three days competitors were tasked with constructing a project designed by an expert panel of judges, within an 18-hour timeframe. The judges assessed the competitors on several aspects – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, skills working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements.

Jacqui Hawthorne, SkillBuild 2024 judge and 2023 winner, said: “It’s been a great opportunity and such an honour to return to SkillBuild this year as a judge. I know exactly how all the participants feel after competing myself, and it’s such a thrilling experience to be surrounded by like-minded individuals with a real passion for what they do.

“A huge congratulations to all the participants at this year’s SkillBuild National Final; what a great achievement.”

Kyle Blower, winner of the SkillBuild National Final 2024 in Bricklaying, added: “Being named a winner at SkillBuild is an indescribable feeling. It’s not just recognition for all the hard work and dedication I’ve put into developing my skills, but it’s also a huge boost of confidence in my abilities.

“This experience has shown me that I can turn my passion for construction into a successful career, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.” q

EMPLOYER EVENTS FOLLOW PLANT TRAINING UPDATES

[ CITB AND THE Plant Sector Representative Organisation (PSRO) are to co-host a series of events to promote training and competency for plant occupations.

The forums, specifically for CITBregistered employers, will discuss how proper and effective training supports industry requirements for ensuring a safe and efficient sector.

The PSRO was created as a partnership of seven of the leading construction-based federations involved in plant operations to act as the voice of the industry for skills-based standards and certification requirements.

They are Build UK, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, Construction Plant-hire Association, Federation of Piling Specialists, Home Builders Federation, National Federation of Demolition Contractors and the Scottish Plant Owners Association.

CITB and the PSRO have been working closely to introduce short-course training standards for plant categories that reflect the increased requirements and responsibilities for plant operators, which will be among the main topics of discussion.

The joint events will discuss the role of CITB as the standard setting body and the role of PSRO in relation to card schemes.

They will also focus on:

• The plant training standards CITB have

• introduced to date and are planning

• The development of a competency

• framework for plant

• Plant apprenticeships

Employers will have the opportunity to discuss training and competency requirements in the plant sector, including the benefits of attaining a fully-trained and competent workforce.

These events will take place on four dates in different regions – South, Midlands, North and Scotland. They are 22 January at Reading Football Club, 28 January at the Heart of England Conference Centre, 11 February at Headingley in Leeds and 18 February in Stirling. Each forum will take place from 10am to 1pm. A buffet lunch will be provided, providing a chance for employers to network.

An online webinar is also available for employers in Wales on 6 March. Registration for all events is on a first-come basis and limited to CITB registered employers.

The events come in the wake of CITB updating training course durations for plant operators from 11 December. A series of new plant training standards and grants – which were piloted from July 2023 – represent a significant change in the way plant training and testing is delivered, streamlining the

system and making grants more accessible.

The new standards were developed in collaboration with industry working groups consisting of employers, training providers and federations. Following further consultation, training course durations have been updated and refined to better reflect the content of the new standards.

The changes will ensure employers see a return on their investment by producing competent, work-ready plant operators who have received training from experts, including learning on new technologies and the ecooperation of plant.

Alasdair Reisner, chair of the PSRO and CEO of CECA, said: “The PSRO was set up by employers and their representative bodies to drive consistency for operational standards and certification through card schemes. The PSRO has worked with CITB throughout the process of developing these new training standards and supports their use within the construction sector.”

Christopher Simpson, head of quality and standards at CITB, added: “These changes will help standardise and improve the quality and consistency of plant training, increase the amount of plant training that takes place before testing and increase the number of people trained in plant operations, particularly new entrants to construction.” q

HBF REPORT SHOWS PLANNING APPROVALS

AT LOWEST EBB

[ THE LATEST Housing Pipeline Report from the Home Builders Federation (HBF), containing data from Glenigan, shows a continued downward trend in planning approval figures for Q3 2024 in both the number of sites and units approved for development.

With just 2,260 sites approved in the months July to September, it marks a 10% decline from the previous quarter and the lowest quarterly total recorded since the HBF began reporting in 2006. The rolling annual total of 10,180 sites approved also represents a record low, further illustrating the significant challenges the UK housing sector faces in meeting growing demand.

While the number of units approved during Q3 increased by 2% to 57,356, this is still 40% below the peak. The rolling annual total of 240,661 units saw a modest 1% rise from Q2 2024 but remains 6% lower than the same period in 2023.

That decline in planning approvals highlights that, to meet the government’s target of 370,000 new homes annually, approvals need to increase by over 150%.

Regionally, the decline in planning approvals has been especially pronounced in the North East, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the West Midlands. Although regions like London saw slight increases, the numbers

remain far below historic levels.

While recent government announcements such as the updated NPPF have been encouraging, the HBF says, swift action is still required to streamline the planning process, tackle regional imbalances and ensure the necessary infrastructure for new developments.

HBF chief executive Neil Jefferson commented: “The continued decline in planning approvals is deeply concerning and underlines the scale of the challenge we face in addressing the country’s housing crisis.

“The recent efforts by the government to reform planning policy are very welcome, but the data makes it clear that much more needs to be done to reignite housing delivery. Planning approvals will need to increase by more than 150% to meet the government’s target of 370,000 homes annually, which is a huge leap from the current figures.

“We are seeing significant regional variation, with some areas experiencing severe drops in approvals, while others, like London, are still well below previous levels. This discrepancy highlights the need for targeted interventions that not only speed up planning processes but also provide clear support for both developers and homebuyers.”

Government also needs to address the lack of available affordable mortgage lending that is suppressing the huge real demand for new homes and is particularly hampering first-time buyers and young people’s ability to get on to the housing ladder, the HBF says. That uncertainly in the market, allied to the lack of Registered Providers in a position to take on the affordable homes required as part of the planning permission, is preventing housebuilders from investing in new sites and planning permissions and pressing the accelerator on housing supply.

Neil Jefferson continued: “The lack of affordable housing is impacting communities across the country, and without a stable demand for new homes the industry lacks the confidence to invest in building the homes that are desperately needed.

“Increasing housing will require going beyond planning reform and addressing broader issues such as financing for homebuyers and a lack of providers in the market to take on the affordable housing developers build. Continued intervention from the government will be crucial to ensuring we have a robust housing market that can deliver for the nation and tackle the housing crisis head-on.” q

COUNCIL’S SALE ADDS TO PERRY BARR’S AFFORDABLE OFFER

[BIRMINGHAM CITY COUNCIL has sold two plots of the Perry Barr Residential Scheme to Legal & General Affordable Homes, making 487 affordable homes – a mix of rent and shared ownership.

Another developed plot is being retained by the council for council housing, further elevating the total number of affordable homes delivered in phase one of the scheme to 700.

The sale ensures that 100% of the homes on the three plots are affordable homes, which more than doubles the affordable housing target of 312 set out in the planning application for the entire Perry Barr Residential Scheme.

Legal & General Affordable Homes is dedicated to offering affordable housing options and has a track record of bringing added civic values to their developments.

The council’s Deputy Leader Cllr Sharon Thompson commented: "Delivering much-needed affordable housing for the city through the Perry Barr Residential Scheme has been a key priority for me. The number of people on the housing register in Birmingham has never been higher; selling these plots will provide a welcome boost to the supply of affordable homes in the city.

"We are pleased to sell these plots to such a reputable operator

of residential properties – one with a commitment to addressing the chronic undersupply of affordable housing in the UK.

"Legal & General Affordable Homes have an excellent pedigree for investing, growing and maintaining communities in the long term. We could not have asked for a better partner than Legal & General Affordable Homes and are pleased that we will be working with them towards the long term regeneration of Perry Barr.

“Selling these plots delivers on our aims to provide a sustainable future and legacy for Perry Barr. This multi-award winning scheme provides a catalyst for the continued regeneration of the area and on-going housing growth for the city.”

Ben Denton, chief executive of Legal & General Affordable Homes, added: “Our vision is to provide everyone with an affordable, high-quality and environmentally sustainable place to live and grow. Our acquisition of the Perry Barr homes shows our commitment to delivering on this and investing in high-quality stock, improving our asset portfolio and achieving improved returns.

“Perry Barr is an exciting opportunity to help create a thriving new neighbourhood that contributes positively towards the local area and supports the council with tackling its housing challenges.” q

RIBA HOME OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED

[ THE Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has named Six Columns by 31/44 Architects as the winner of RIBA House of the Year 2024, the annual award for the UK’s best new home.

Designed by Will Burges, director of 31/44 Architects, as a family home for himself, his wife and two children, Six Columns cleverly occupies a tight urban plot in the leafy suburbs of Crystal Palace, South London. As the family occupy the building, they will continue to tinker with it, inside and out, allowing it to evolve to their changing needs over time.

Named after the six columns that form the main structure of the building, the two-storey, four-bedroom house echoes the proportions and materials of neighbouring terrace houses, while retaining its own individual character that references the designer’s broad architectural influences, such as the Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe or the Case Study houses in California.

The house is discreet and considerate to its neighbours, but there are design flourishes that allow the project to carefully balance both conventional and contemporary features. For instance, its brick façade and terracotta tile roof align with the rest of the street, while concrete beams and a statement veined marble panel by the front door add a touch of bespoke grandeur.

Inside, the layout makes the most of the wedge-shaped site, creating a functional family home that can be easily adapted for future requirements.

The use of self-finished materials throughout intentionally challenges the layering and ‘covering-up’ of contemporary construction. Exposed painted brickwork and readily-available spruce pine panels for fittings and joinery not only offer a natural warmth, but can be adjusted with ease in the future.

Outside, the house boasts three separate garden spaces, including a low-maintenance, west-facing rainwater garden that channels water from all the roofs that tumble out of a huge spout and into a steel tank to prevent overflow and promote reuse.

RIBA president Muyiwa Oki said: “Six Columns is a beautifully crafted family home that cleverly incorporates Brutalist references and creative flourishes while retaining a strong sense of suburban belonging. It

shows what can be achieved when working with even the tightest of suburban sites, and its flexible, unfinished aesthetic offers a solution to futureproofed design: this is a home that can evolve with its occupants’ changing needs overtime.

“The generosity of space belies the limitations of this small garden plot. As we look for creative and practical solutions to the housing crisis, Six Columns offers a blueprint for bespoke urban infill development.” q

SKILLS HUBS SET TO KICKSTART HOMEBUILDING MISSION

[ WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP with the government and CITB, the National House Building Council (NHBC) have announced a £140m investment in Homebuilding Skills Hubs to deliver fast-track apprenticeships and high-quality training.

Once fully rolled out, the hubs are estimated to deliver up to 5,000 new homebuilding apprenticeship starts and job opportunities each year to support the government’s homebuilding target of 1.5 million new homes. The hubs will be funded and developed jointly by CITB and NHBC. Up to 32 hubs will be launched by 2027 and, depending on the type of apprenticeship and role, fast-track apprenticeships are 25% to 45% faster than traditional apprenticeships. The fast-track training will provide the on-site experience employers

demand while being underpinned by an industry charter from lead homebuilders, guaranteeing a base level of demand and a commitment to offering jobs and apprenticeships.

The Homebuilding Skills Hubs will initially provide training in areas of critical demand for homebuilding, including groundwork, site carpentry and bricklaying. Across those trades, CITB estimates more than an additional 26,000 workers are needed to meet the government's homebuilding target.

The hubs will stay flexible, ready to adapt to local housing needs and changes in regulations, with learners training in ‘real-life’ site conditions for an immersive, hands-on experience led by expert trainers.

Each hub will be equipped with classrooms, welfare and catering facilities,

and a typical day includes six hours of practical training on a large outdoor concrete slab, where apprentices construct substantial structures reflective of a homebuilding site.

NHBC is investing £100m alongside £40m from CITB to establish the new hubs.

Minister for Skills Baroness Jacqui Smith said: “This government is committed to 1.5 million homes being built across this Parliament, while breaking down barriers to opportunity by fixing our broken skills system.

“If we are to meet this ambitious target and fix the foundations of our economy, we need to ensure we have a skilled workforce, and give more apprentices a foot on the career ladder.

“We are the department for opportunity, and I am pleased that this initiative will enable apprentices to realise their potential.” q

LATEST ROUND OF CONSERVATION WORK COMMENCES AT TINTERN ABBEY

[THE FIRST PHASE of conservation works on the chapels at the iconic Tintern Abbey has begun, Wales’s heritage body Cadw has announced. Tintern Abbey is one of Cadw’s finest monuments, with its ancient ruins standing on the banks of the River Wye. There have been many campaigns to address the deterioration of the stone due to hotter summers and wetter winters, as well as original stones being put in the wrong way.

With the completion of scaffolding, conservation work has started and includes brushing off loose and flaking stonework to expose sound underlying surfaces.

Loose mortar will be removed from the joints and vegetation carefully picked out so as not to leave any roots. Fragile stones will be consolidated using a weak, lime-rich mortar before they are pinned together and then back to the surrounding masonry.

The old copper straps – originally designed to hold stones in place – have decayed so will be removed once the new pins are in place. The masons wrap the completed work in wetted hessian to try and control the drying out of the new mortar.

Cadw appointed Ferrier Hart Thomas and David Odgers Conservation to survey, provide design information and specify in detail the works stonemasons need to carry out. The extensive survey took almost a year to complete and included archaeological investigation of the floors within the church and directly outside its walls.

The works are being carried out by Grosvenor Construction Ltd, a specialist conservation contractor from north Wales who have recently completed the exciting redevelopment project at Kings Gate, Caernarfon Castle.

Gwilym Hughes, head of Cadw, said: “For nearly 900 years the abbey has been welcoming worshippers, wealthy patrons and visitors to this tranquil location, and once again it requires some attention. It’s fantastic to see this work beginning so generations to come can enjoy this iconic historic site.”

This is the first of five phases of conservation works. Progress can be followed through the Tintern Abbey conservation timeline and on social media. q

DEVELOPER UNCOVERS

CORNWALL’S INDUSTRIAL

PAST

[JOHN WILLIAMS is shaping West Cornwall’s future while uncovering relics of its ancient history. As he delivers modern housing developments to the local community, his work has unexpectedly revealed long-buried traces of the region’s rich tin mining heritage.

Cornwall, renowned for its rugged coastline and rich industrial history, was once a global centre for tin mining.

Remnants of that past still dot the landscape, with landmarks such as the Geevor Tin Mine standing as testament to the region’s mining heritage.

In this historically rich setting, local groundworks contractor John Williams is spearheading a complex residential project with the help of three Yanmar mini excavators – while also uncovering hidden relics of Cornwall’s past.

In addition to large-scale housing developments, John has used his Yanmar SV60-6B for personal projects, including building his dream home. Located in the idyllic village of Pendeen, his land revealed a hidden chapter from bygone times: five tin mine shafts, discovered beneath the foundation of the old farmhouse he was rebuilding.

As he excavated the site John uncovered layers of Cornwall’s industrial past: a reminder of the region’s deep-rooted mining heritage, particularly near the iconic Geevor Tin Mine.

“To build our dream home, we had to start from the ground up, which sadly meant demolishing the old farmhouse that stood on the land,” John recalls. “The property had been derelict for 40 years and was in a complete state of disrepair. During the excavation process to lay down the new foundation, we were amazed to uncover five mine shafts – a piece of history right beneath our feet.”

The mines below John’s home trail toward Geevor Tin Mine, a World Heritage Site that once extended far beneath the sea. Tin, first extracted from the beds of streams in Pendeen during the Bronze Age, played a pivotal role in Cornwall’s metalworking legacy. q

ADVICE NOTE AIDS UNIFORMITY IN RETROFIT PLANNING

[HISTORIC ENGLAND has published new advice on adapting historic buildings for energy and carbon efficiency.

The organisation is a partner of the National Retrofit Hub, which commented: “The world faces a climate emergency and buildings are a major consideration in addressing this challenge. Historic England has produced this Advice Note to provide clarity and support consistent decision-making for proposals to reduce carbon emissions and improve the energy efficiency of historic buildings, whilst conserving their significance and ensuring they remain viable places to live in the future. It reflects current national planning policy.”

Primarily aimed at local planning authorities, heritage consultants and those involved in the planning process, the Historic England Advice Note is available to access at historicengland.org.uk. A number of case studies are also available to download.

While the Advice Note is largely for a specialist audience, it will also be useful to building owners and occupiers.

The document provides:

• Advice on what permissions, such as listed building consent, are

• needed for some of the common changes required to decarbonise

• and improve the energy efficiency of historic buildings

• Advice to assist local planning authorities – and other parties

• involved in the planning process – in determining proposals to

• enable positive climate action. Some typical building adaptations

• in response to climate change impacts are also included.

• Signposting to other relevant information, advice and guidance.

In an interview for the Financial Times by Leyla Boulton, National Retrofit Hub Working Group 3 co-chair Cara Jenkinson said: “Right now a builder looking to retrofit two similar homes in neighbouring council areas could face very different planning decisions.

“With a shortage of builders skilled to undertake retrofit work, this presents yet another barrier. This guidance from Historic England should help councils make more consistent decisions.” q

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