Tall Buildings Magazine - Issue 4

Whatever the project, we have the solution

Leviat develops innovative products and solutions to address the structural engineering challenges of ambitious construction projects around the world. We are with you every step of the way, designing and delivering integrated lifting, connecting and anchoring systems that comply with all relevant approvals.

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In this issue...

FRONT COVER: A. Proctor Group

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KEEP IN TOUCH:

With safety and sustainability top of the high-rise agenda, in this edition of Tall Buildings Magazine we reflect on some of the issues that are dividing opinions as well as celebrating the engineering feats that are transforming our city skylines.

Cover Story

Callum Anderson, Technical Advisor at A. Proctor Group examines some commonly held myths and asks the question: Is the best way to meet airtightness requirements by using an internal VCL?

Industry News

Get to grips with the latest news, views, proposals, applications, approvals and trends taking place throughout the UK high-rise industry.

Spotlight on Birmingham

The city has long been on an upward trajectory in more ways than one – Birmingham is thriving and the built environment will continue to be at the root of this success.

Tall Buildings Conference

With an impressive speaker line-up and the ‘Step Change: Designing for Safety’ panel debate – this year for the first time the conference and exhibition will be taking place in Birmingham.

Elevating the Lift Construction Process

Laing O'Rourke has devised a modular elevator solution with manufacturer Kone which will slash on site installation time for a three-storey lift module to just 90 minutes.

Building Safety

RIBA forms coalition to urge government fire safety action to adopt an 18 metre maximum height threshold for new residential buildings with a single staircase.

Project Profile –20-22 Ropemaker Street

Designed to meet demand for quality, sustainable office space in the UK capital – a highly skilled team is behind London’s tallest limestone building since St Paul’s Cathedral.

IS THE BEST WAY TO MEET AIRTIGHTNESS

REQUIREMENTS

BY USING AN INTERNAL VCL?

Callum Anderson, Technical Advisor at A. Proctor Group examines some commonly held myths in the construction industry concerning thermal and acoustic insulation, condensation control, fire protection, ground gas protection and asks the question: Is it true? Is the best way to meet airtightness requirements by using an internal VCL?

A VCL, or vapour control layer, is a layer within a building construction that prevents water vapour passage. The VCL is positioned on the side of a construction element that would have the highest vapour pressure and therefore protects the insulation and structure from the ingress of water vapour.

In the UK, vapour drive flows from inside to outside, so a vapour control layer should be applied to the warm side of the insulation. VCLs are typically made of polyethylene, or foil, which are impermeable to both water vapour and to air. Therefore, they are often called Air and Vapour Control Layers, or AVCLs. As these AVCLs are air impermeable, many constructions incorporate them as the primary airtightness line for the building, though this does present some challenges that must be overcome.

Being positioned on the internal face of a construction means that the AVCL interfaces with many building services, which could damage it. For example, services such as plumbing or electrical fixtures in the external walls will need to puncture the airtight line. Typically, these require specialist airtight backing boxes or other seals which need to be taped to the AVCL to ensure the continuity of the airtight line. Any hole in the airtight line that has been improperly sealed is detrimental to the airtightness of the construction.

Therefore, the VCL and plasterboard fixings need to be carefully considered during the design phase.

Additionally, the internal lining of the building is subject to punctures created by the building user. Things like picture hooks and television brackets cause unexpected penetrations in the airtight membrane, which can lead to air leakage that has not been accounted for in the original design of the building.

Internal airtight membranes also require careful and accurate detailing around floors, ceilings, and internal walls. The level of airtightness that an internal membrane can provide to a building depends on how well it is detailed, with small holes potentially creating significant issues.

An alternative and more effective option is to make the building airtight from the outside. Using an airtight vapour permeable membrane means the entire structure can be wrapped externally. This external membrane means that a homogenous airtight line is formed around the entire construction, which results in interaction with far fewer building services.

Using an external airtight membrane provides the benefit that it only needs to interact with the fixing brackets and possibly external insulation. This results in a more robust construction, which maintains its effective airtightness even after completion.

A commonly held belief is that all airtight membranes are vapour

control layers, which would cause condensation if used outside of the insulation. As part of its extensive highperformance range of construction membranes, the A. Proctor Group offers Wraptite®, a unique, fully self-adhered airtight and vapour permeable membrane. The Wraptite membrane is typically adhered to the sheathing board. The membrane can span across concrete frames and columns, allowing for complete encapsulation of the building with detailing that is far easier. Because Wraptite is self-adhered, it does not require fixings, and in exceptional circumstances that do require fixings, such as a rainscreen facade, the adhesive will provide a measure of airtightness.

Depending on the type and placement of the insulation in the construction, the need for a vapour control layer can be negated entirely. However, it is typically best to include a VCL as good practice. If the airtightness is handled externally and the construction works from a hygrothermal perspective, any work internally would only improve the performance. Often, a vapour control layer, in these cases, is only needed for moisture management, which simplifies the detailing required.

Part L of the Building Regulations has recently been updated to ensure that new constructions in the UK achieve no more than 7 m³/m²/h@50Pa. This revision to the regulations means that for each square metre of a building element, no more than 7 cubic metres of air should be able to permeate through it in an hour when the building is pressurised to 50 pascals. Building

Regulations also require that 50% of all homes built are tested for air leakage to meet this target. Many contractors choose to take both a pre-test and a final test, with the pre-tests typically being conducted when the internal lining (and, therefore, the typical airtight line) has not been installed. This often results in buildings that allow more than 10 m³/m²/h@50Pa of air to permeate, though this would be expected to be reduced when the internal linings are installed. If the airtight line is outside the construction, the end result would be far closer to the final outcome.

As building design becomes more and more energy focused, the allowable air permeability of a construction reduces. Many buildings are designed to achieve below 3 m³/m²/h@50Pa, while energy-efficient standards such as Passivhaus are growing in popularity, resulting in an ever-increasing need for robust airtightness. Traditionally, this has been provided at the internal lining through an AVCL, but as demonstrated, there are alternative, more effective methods. The most airtight building will use both internal and external airtight membranes, resulting in buildings with almost no uncontrolled air leakage or draughts at all.

The A. Proctor Group provides a wide range of quality, innovative solutions which are designed to meet the continuously evolving requirements of the construction industry.

For more information: www.proctorgroup.com

Landsec to Bring Net Zero Green Offices to Southwark

Planning permission has been granted for a net-zero green office scheme in the London Borough of Southwark. Property developers, Landsec will create the 230,000 sqft office complex adjacent to the River Thames at Bankside. Plans include offices, retail and open public spaces.

Careful attention has been paid to sustainability features, with the project designed by Bjarke Ingels Group to be net zero, exceeding environmental targets. Construction will see parts of existing buildings reused as well as low-carbon materials. Landsec aims to achieve WELL Core Platinum and BREEAM Outstanding ratings.

Landsec is currently working on several green offices in Southwark, including The Forge, the first net zero commercial building in the UK designed to meet the UKGBC framework.

Oliver Knight, Head of Workplace at Landsec, said: “Red Lion Court delivers a landmark office building with restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions like the Tate Modern on its doorstep. The space embraces its prominent waterfront position, providing a new workspace focused on wellness, flexibility, and environmental responsibility.

‘Misconceived’ Claims Lipton Rogers Dismissed

A legal claim against Lipton Rogers over a supposed £11 million brokerage payment has been withdrawn. Hamid Alqumairi made the claim, saying he had acted as a middleman for the firm’s 22 Bishopsgate deal.

Alqumairi stated he had been instrumental in negotiating the deal between a Saudi consortium, Lipton Rogers, and French investor AXA, and was owed a fee that had not materialised.

Lipton Rogers said the claim was without foundation, factually inaccurate, and misconceived. The 22 Bishopsgate project was completed in 2020 after previous plans for the site were delayed due to funding issues. Lipton Rogers and AXA took over the development of the stalled tower, then known as the Pinnacle, eight years ago.

In a statement, Lipton Rogers said: “Their illconceived attempts to litigate are now over.”

The London market remains resilient, and through our work in Southwark, and more broadly across the rest of London and the UK, we are building a pipeline with optionality baked in – allowing us to bring products that offer the very best locations, amenities and sustainability credentials forward to the market at the most opportune time. “

Oliver Knight added: “With The Forge nearing completion and progress being made on site at Timber Square, this approval at Red Lion Court will unlock the next stage of the one million sqft green office cluster we are developing in the borough."

IMAGE: Landsec - Red Lion Court delivers a landmark office complex

The statement further revealed that a judge described the claim as a tactic, and the claimant had no serious belief that the judgement would be in their favour. Lipton Rogers has received costs of £175,000.

In response, Hamid Alqumairi said: “Despite this disappointing outcome, it remains the case that I was instrumental in 22 Bishopsgate’s development.”

41-Storey Tower Addition to Colliers Yard Gets Go Ahead

A new residential tower will bring 518 homes to the Colliers Yard development in Greengate, Salford. The build will form the final structure in a trio of towers approved by planning officials.

The new Parkside (middle) tower will complete the scheme and offer a total of around 1,500 new homes. The 41-storey building will stand alongside the Bankside and Cortland towers. The development also offers 11,000 sqft of ground floor commercial space. Construction has already begun on the 43-story Bankside block. Cortland Tower is now at the fit-out stage.

Parkside has been designed by Denton Corker Marshall and features a distinctive, modern style. The design includes bronze and aluminium panelling across four vertical pillars.

The four-year programme is due to begin in early 2024 and is planned for completion in 2027. Manchester developer Renaker is working alongside Hoare Lea, TPM Landscaping, Element Sustainability, and consultants Curtins to deliver the project.

IMAGE: Denton Corker Marshall/RenakerColliers Yard development in Greengate, Salford

Banbridge Building Services Firm Sees Unprecedented Growth

Northern Ireland building services firm Kane has acquired three London projects worth £68 million providing a boost to their ambitious growth plans. The firm which is based in Bainbridge has offices in London, Glasgow, and the Republic of Ireland, has secured two projects in the industrial and healthcare sector and a design and build agreement with Canary Wharf contractors. The two deals are worth £25 million and £43 million.

Kane is due to start on a health and wellbeing centre in London in June, delivering the MEP and building

contract for the project, which will offer GP and outpatient services. The work is expected to last eight months. Work will also begin on an industrial sector project in November, with Kane delivering offsite solutions.

Cathal McMullan, Managing Director, said: “Kane is delighted to have secured projects in targeted diversified sectors, in line with our growth strategy. We have a highly skilled team with the transferable skills to deliver innovative design and manufacturing capabilities in a wide range of sectors.”

Further to the above, a £43 million design and build contract will see Kane deliver MEP installation across two blocks at Wood Wharf in London. The project will commence in April 2023 and will offer 760 buy-torent residential units alongside six guest suites across 34 and 49-storey towers. Additional amenities include retail space, a gym, work and recreational lounges, a games room, and dining spaces.

IMAGE: Canary Wharf Contractors/Kane Group - Kane have secured a £43 million design and build contract with Canary Wharf Contractors to deliver the MEP installation across two blocks at Wood Wharf in London.

We are contributing to more sustainable buildings and developing circular products. Ensuring we reduce our ecological footprint while never forgetting we are a caring company.

Green Light for Birmingham 540-bed Student Scheme

A revised plan for a 29-storey student accommodation block originally deemed too overbearing has now gained approval. Following changes to the design, the 540-bed development has been given the green light for construction in Birmingham City Centre.

Work will begin at Gough Street in the summer of 2023, with construction expected to be completed before the 2026 autumn academic term. The project, a venture by joint developers MRP and Vita, will offer private dining rooms, a gym, and outdoor recreational space.

Max Bielby Chief Operating Officer for Vita Group said: “We’re delighted to achieve planning consent for this exciting new development in Birmingham with MRP. Demand for high-quality PBSA within Birmingham continues to outstrip supply. This in turn is creating wider pressures on the city’s housing infrastructure.”

Following the completion of the new building, designed to meet BREEAM 'Very Good' ratings, Vita Group will own, operate, and manage the building as Vita Student.

IMAGE: Urban Innovations

Ballymore’s Cuba Street Development Plans Secured

Property developer Ballymore has secured planning permission (subject to a section 106 agreement) to construct a dynamic mixed-use development in London’s Docklands. The parkside development will offer 421 high-quality private and affordable homes, from studios to four-bedroom residences.

The plan includes a gym, cycle storage, communal spaces, and a sky lounge. There will also be 100sqm of retail space on the ground floor. A new park will provide the largest open public space since the construction of Jubilee Park. The new ‘Cuba Park’ will feature a stunning garden-style green space inspired by natural elements of the surrounding environment.

Designed by architect Morris + Company, the building will boast a unique, sculptural look, with aluminium facades and a projected red canopy to highlight entrance points. The design will maximise the site’s enviable views and natural light - creating a distinctive feel while remaining sympathetic to the local environment.

Ballymore will source high-performance, sustainable materials, while highly energy-efficient systems, including air source heat pumps, will maximise carbon reductions.

Simon Ryan, Projects Director, said: “We are incredibly excited to see progress around our Cuba

Street application. Our plans – if fully approved will enable us to create a striking new building that is distinctive from and complementary to - the existing area. It will create a substantial number of much-needed new homes and bring significant improvements to the surrounding public realm, including half of the site providing a large new garden square for residents and locals to enjoy.”

IMAGE: Ballymore - Dynamic mixed-use development in London’s Docklands

Project: South Quay Plaza, London E14

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Wates Residential Scheme to Bring New Homes to Wembley

A £100 million scheme will see 304 new homes built in Wembley across two sites. Wates has signed the development deal with London's Brent Council, which will deliver a mix of affordable and private sale homes.

250 of the homes will be located on a former school site east of Cecil Avenue. The remaining builds will be opposite the site and will include workspace units and a roadside cafe.

Second Staircase Rule Uncertainty Halts Wates Project

A joint venture between Wates Residential and Havering Council has been put on hold due to concerns about the proposed second staircase rule. The project which will deliver 550 affordable homes in Romford East London, is part of an ambitious 12-year regeneration scheme.

An official decision on the second staircase rule is yet to be made, but it is anticipated that the two-staircase requirements will form part of the new building safety legislation.

Wates and Havering Council issued a statement regarding the decision. "As a result of continued regulatory uncertainty, a decision has been taken by the Havering Council and Wates Residential joint venture to pause development of the Waterloo and Queen Street site in Romford. Regulations are likely to change to

Both sites will offer a combination of council tenant and middle-income homes, with 152 houses built on each. Cecil Avenue will feature builds from five to nine-storeys with options available up to four beds. It will also offer commercial units and community amenities.

Nick Williams, Wates Residential Regional Managing Director, said: “We will be working with the local community to deliver these mixed-tenure homes.

This means employing the services of local businesses and people along the way to help regenerate the area and inspire a new community.” The scheme is partly funded by the Mayor of London and aims to increase job, leisure, retail, and housing opportunities in the area. The area will also see improved accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.

IMAGE: Wates - 304 new homes wll be built across two sites delivering a mix of affordable and private sale homes

require two staircases in buildings over 30 metres. As we are at an early point in the construction process, we have taken an opportunity to pause while we get a better understanding of what new regulations will mean and to update the design to include a second staircase.”

Wates Residential began the joint venture with the council in 2018. The plan includes a £12 billion regeneration plan across 12 estates in East London,

delivering 3,500 council-rented and affordable homes. Earlier this year, the Mayor of London introduced new rules requiring a second staircase on all new applications of buildings over 30 metres.

IMAGE: Havering Council /Wates - Plans for the 12-year regeneration partnership across the London Borough of Havering are currently on hold.

Deansgate Exterior Renaker

Old Kent Road Scheme Switches from Flats to Student Accommodation

Regal London has amended plans for its Old Kent Road residential scheme in London and will now create student rooms and affordable homes. The developer has also proposed additional commercial and community spaces within the plan. The build location will be opposite the proposed new Bakerloo Line station and includes over 900 student bedrooms and 220 affordable homes.

The scheme will bring 600 sqm of commercial and community areas to the development across four buildings. Regal has purchased the site, and public consultation has taken place. They will submit plans to Southwark later this year.

Regal London Co-Founder, Simon De Friend, said: “This is a fantastic prospect in the middle of the Old

Kent Road Opportunity Area. As an agile developer, we have recognised that high-quality student accommodation has the potential to enable the delivery of a significant quantum of affordable housing, thereby unlocking this challenging site.”

Old Kent Road will be Regal London's second purpose-built student accommodation following The

High Society project in Brent. Permission has already been granted for the energy-efficient 349-room build on High Road, Wembley. Regal says the revised scheme is better aligned with local market needs.

IMAGE: Regal London - The scheme includes over 900 student bedrooms and 220 affordable homes

Vita Announces Plans for 580-Bed Manchester Student

First Street masterplan and complementing our neighbouring Vita Student offering.

“House of Social is the student house re-imagined, bringing students together at the most important time in their lives and allowing them to make lifelong friends whilst excelling in their studies.”

Deansgate Exterior Renaker

Student accommodation specialists Vita has announced plans for a 580-bed student building at the First Street development site in Manchester. The 14-storey tower will be constructed on a former car park lot on plot 10b of the First Street masterplan. Architect Tim Groom has designed the brick-clad structure to harmonise with surrounding buildings. The 'House of Social' project is a reimagining of student housing redesigned as multiple clusters within the block.

Each house offers an open-plan kitchen and lounge area for communal dining and entertainment. Large ensuite bedrooms will also be an attractive feature. The homes are designed with second and third-year students in mind. A food hall at ground level will offer seating for approximately 400 covers.

Max Bielby, Chief Operating Officer for Vita Group, spoke about the project: “We are delighted to bring forward these exciting new plans for our new student brand House of Social, adding to the

Plans for a 13-storey 300,00 sqft net zero office scheme, designed by Jon Matthews Architects, are progressing on the adjacent plot following the submission of planning earlier this year. Vita hopes to be able to start work on House of Social later this year.

IMAGE: Vita - The project is a reimagining of student housing redesigned as multiple clusters within the block

World's First Mixed-use Net Zero Development for Birmingham

Birmingham developers have the go-ahead to build the world's first mixed-use net zero carbon development after planners approved the project. Investor and developer Woodbourne Group will bring the £360 million Curzon Wharf scheme to the city centre as part of rejuvenation efforts in the area. The net zero carbon development is designed to be highly energy efficient, fully powered by renewable energy sources.

Plans for Curzon Wharf include a 53-storey high residential build-to-rent apartment block. Once constructed, the tower will be 564 feet tall, overtaking The Octagon, which stands at 508 feet. The purposebuilt accommodation will be a mixture of student

apartments and residential homes. Woodbourne Group has said the structure will provide up to 732 student flats, 265 co-living units with generous amenity space and up to 498 apartments.

Tani Dulay, Chief Executive of Woodbourne Group, said: “We have worked hard to reach this point, and it is incredibly satisfying to stand on the brink of delivering such a world-class development for a city I am proud to call home. I want to thank the planning committee, our team and everyone who supported this scheme. We need to help power the economic recovery by facilitating investment, creating jobs and acting as a catalyst to further success."

The site location is on the northern entrance to the city with easy access to nearby rail links. The waterside development will also include approximately 130,000 sqft of office, R&D and life science space. The development will bring over 1,000 jobs to the area, with 3,000 sqft of retail space and expansive leisure facilities. More than 76,424 sqft of improved public realm and upgraded walking and cycling routes will bring further benefits. Curzon Wharf forms part of plans to position Birmingham as a leading city in sustainable construction.

IMAGE: Woodbourne Group

32-storey Tower Approved Despite Carbon Concerns

Carbon concerns were dismissed by the planning committee and Woods Bagot's plans to build a 32-storey tower above Leadenhall Market have been approved. The controversial plans will see construction above the grade II* listed building.

Mauritius-based developer Hershten Group put forward the plans for the scheme. The City of London Corporation voted in favour of the project, following a recommendation from planning officers. Concerns from The Victorian Society stated the plans would conflict with the City of London’s newly adopted guidance on considering refurbishment over new build to reduce embodied carbon emissions. Historic England shared the concerns,

citing potential harm to the historic environment of the area and the carbon impact of the project.

However, the city planning committee is satisfied with the whole-life carbon and sustainability aspects of the building. Committee Chair Shravan Jashvantrai Joshi said: “There are clear policies in place on suitability for office, for residential, for various uses, so I do not think there is a policy question here on the use of this particular development.”

The project team has offered assurances regarding the use of low carbon materials in the build. Also involved in the project are surveyors Shaw

Corporation, quantity surveyors Turner & Townsend Alinea, multi-disciplinary firm Arup, M&E consultant Sweco, planning specialist DP9 and global consulting firm Robert Bird. Under new city rules, developers must complete a detailed review of the carbon impact of development options before submitting applications.

The development will offer 35,000 sqm of business space, food and beverage facilities, and a public hall. Also included in the plan is a heritage garden, with a walkway offering excellent views over nearby Leadenhall Market.

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Plans Announced for Alternative 32-Storey Tower in Birmingham

will also feature ground-floor commercial and retail spaces and co-working facilities in addition to the 294 new rental homes.

Urban Vision purchased the site from developer Euro Property Investments after the previous project was scrapped. Urban Vision stated that their plans for redevelopment on the site would support the ongoing regeneration efforts in the local area. The Birmingham-based company recently completed the 42-storey Mercian residential tower and an office building at Paradise Circus.

Deansgate Exterior Renaker Howells Architects have announced plans for a 32-storey tower in Birmingham. The residential build at 100 Broad Street replaces a previously planned project by Glancy Nicholls Architects.

The plans went on show in late March as part of the consultation process. The tower will offer build-to-rent flats. The previous plan approved by Birmingham City Council would have seen the building double in height to become the tallest structure in the city. The design

Berkeley to Refocus on Low Rise Should Second Staircase Rule Go Ahead

Berkeley has announced plans to move from tower to low-rise developments should the proposed government ban on single staircases in blocks above 30 metres go ahead. Rules are already in place in London after Mayor Sadiq Khan applied the proposed changes with immediate effect last month. They are due to come into force across the UK later this year. All planning applications in the capital for new buildings above 30 metres must now have second staircases before going to the Greater London Authority for final sign-off. In an interview published in Building Magazine, Berkeley said the change was a ‘remarkable challenge’ for everybody.

Divisional Managing Director Brian McKenzie said, “First and foremost, Berkeley try and create as many amenities for the public as possible, and that is going to become more challenging because if you cannot put a tower in to get the density up, we are then going to have to increase coverage.”

A consultation paper on the ban, published last year, advised developers to prepare for changes. It also suggested there would be a short transitional period for schemes requiring further redesign.

The G15 group of London Housing Associations has welcomed the 30 metre rule. However, a Royal Institute of British Architects-led coalition which includes the National Fire Chiefs Council and disability groups have put forward arguments for the threshold to apply to towers taller than 18 metres.

Urban Vision Director Nigel Robson said: “Our ambition is to deliver one of the city’s most sustainable developments at 100 Broad Street, which sets the standard for tall buildings in Birmingham. As an underutilised brownfield site, this is an opportunity to support the wider regeneration of the area – driving local growth and creating jobs. Our proposals are deliverable and should planning permission be granted, construction will begin as soon as possible.”

IMAGE: Howells Architects/ Urban Vision

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities expects costs for the requirement to reach £1.6 billion over the next decade with a 30 metre ban, £2.5 billion if this is lowered to 18 metres.

£400m Scheme Approved for Former Yorkshire Post Site

The Leeds-based developer Urbanite Living has secured planning consent to develop the former Yorkshire Post site in Leeds. The plans which are subject to conditions, are for three mixed residential towers on the prominent site which has been vacant for nine years.

Designed by DLA Architecture with Quod acting as planning consultant, the £400 million development will deliver one of the city centre’s largest new residential and student living schemes. The plans include three residential towers, ranging in height from 25-42 storeys. The tallest two will contain 1,782 student beds in a total of 576 cluster apartments, along with leisure and well-being facilities. The third building will provide 348 private rent apartments.

Galliford Try set out the construction management plan as part of the initial planning submission. It intends to use offsite manufactured bathroom pods and pre-cast concrete facades.

Daniel Newett, a founder of Urbanite, said: “Leeds remains one of the UK’s top university destinations with education space as well as student applications

continuing to increase at a rapid pace. This scheme delivers uncompromising living spaces with fantastic public realm that is both sustainable and adaptable for the future whilst also supporting the health and wellbeing of its occupants.”

IMAGE: Urbanite/ DLA Architecture - Urbanite says it hopes to be able to start development on site as soon as possible

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Watkin Jones Breaks Ground

on Build-to-Rent Project

Watkin Jones has broken ground at a former brewery as part of an ambitious £1 billion regeneration project in Cardiff. The Brains Brewery site will offer 700 buildto-rent flats.

The Cardiff Quay development is the largest buildto-rent project in Wales and will see a £200 million investment in the area from developer Legal & General. Offering studio flats and one, two, and three-bed accommodation, it will also provide over 19,500 sqft of leisure and commercial retail space.

Alex Pease, Chief Investment Officer, Watkin Jones, said: “This regeneration of a strategic site in the heart of Cardiff will deliver high quality sustainably constructed build-to-rent homes, which also helps meet the everincreasing housing demand in the area.”

IMAGE: Legal & General/ Watkin Jones - Cardiff Quay development is Legal & General’s third project in the last 24 months with Watkin Jones and the largest to date.

Energy Efficient Tower Proposed for Milton Keynes

Plans are currently being considered by Milton Keynes City Council for a £100 million scheme put forward by build-to-rent developers and operators, PLATFORM_. The proposal comprises a 20-storey development of mixed-use space. The proposed development will follow the successful delivery of projects by PLATFORM_ in Cardiff, Sheffield, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.

The residential tower will provide 355 new homes offering energy-efficient heating, smart technology, and sustainable design. It will also deliver 8,000 sqft of residential amenities alongside landscaped exteriors. PLATFORM_ also plans to include commercial use spaces.

Energy efficiency and sustainability will be integral focuses within the design. This forms part of the PLATFORM_ commitment to achieve carbonneutral operations by 2030. Plans include the installation of solar technology, air-source heat pumps, and renewable energy sources. The lowcarbon building will also provide charging points for electric vehicles.

CEO of PLATFORM_ Jean-Marc Vandevivere, said of the proposed plans: “PLATFORM_ MK will contribute to bridging the gap between demand and supply of high-quality homes in the city centre while setting new standards for design, service, and quality.”

IMAGE: Platform_MK - The proposal comprises a 20-storey residential development and mixed-use space

CONFIDENCE TO REACH HIGHER

Pursue ambitious, complex projects with total confidence by involving our major projects service as early as RIBA Design Stage 2.

LABC Welcomes Announcement of £42.5m Government Grant

funding will go to support Fire and Rescue Services and the National Fire Chiefs Council.

LABC Chief Executive, Lorna Stimpson, said: “Building control surveyors are a scarce commodity and so it is important that we start to invest in this previously underfunded but vital public service role,”

The £16.5 million will be used to recruit and train approximately 110 new building control inspectors. The DLUHC programme will see trainees develop the skills and resources required over three years, before being redirected to areas with a higher distribution of high-rise buildings.

The new inspectors will become local regulators of the BSR, an independent body within the Health and Safety Executive. BSR was established by the Building Safety Act in response to the Grenfell Tower fire.

The BSR will act to ensure the safety of all buildings and in particular the construction and safe maintenance of buildings identified as high risk. The government grant will also see the recruitment of 111 fire protection officers to support BSR.

Those responsible for safety in high-rise residential blocks in England will have six months from April to register with the BSR.

Local Authority Building Control (LABC) has welcomed the news of a £42.5 million grant to support the delivery of the Building Safety Act 2022 between now and 2025.

Joint Venture to Bring 462 Apartments to West London

A mixed-use development will see the tallest building in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea delivered by joint developer MARK and Seven Capital. Ardmore has signed a contract for works to begin on the £200 million residential scheme in West London.

The project will deliver 462 apartments over seven new builds. The tallest block will reach 32-storeys located at West Cromwell and Warwick Road. Work will integrate existing buildings, including a multi-storey car park requiring significant strengthening and alterations. The car park was originally built to support a multi-storey office building. However, the development was never completed.

The announcement of the grant, by The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), will see LABC receive £16.5 million of the total amount awarded. The remainder of the

IMAGE: The BSR will implement the new regime for higher-risk buildings

Enabling works have already been completed, with the main contract set to start in April. The project will require a phased strategy as agreed with nearby businesses. The development will see significant improvements in the area, also providing commercial and retail space.

Ardmore Managing Director, Cormac Byrne, spoke about the collaboration between Ardmore, MARK, and Seven Capital: “The project builds on our impressive track record of helping developers unlock some of the most complex schemes in London. There is no doubt this is one of the more challenging projects currently under construction. We have worked closely with Seven Capital, MARK, and neighbouring stakeholders to bring our extensive experience of working in and around existing occupied buildings and next to operational rail assets.”

IMAGE: MARK / Seven Capital - The development will see the tallest building in the Royal Borough of Kensington

L&Q Announce Largest Construction Project

L&Q Construction broke ground in March on what will be their biggest new-build project to date. The ambitious development will result in a 476-home residential scheme at Greenwich Peninsula in South London.

The project marks a significant move for the construction arm of the housing association. L&Q's focus on self-delivery comes as part of a bid to control costs and improve programme outcomes. The Greenwich Peninsula scheme is one of three own-build projects by L&Q currently in the works.

The L&Q team will deliver seven buildings over two plots of 40,000 sqm. Construction is due to be completed by 2027. The Greenwich Peninsula development will include two towers, 22 and 30-storeys high. There will also be 17 four-bedroom family homes and two mansion blocks.

Affordable housing will be a focus of the project, with 70% of homes split between London Affordable Rent and Shared Ownership schemes. The remainder of the builds will be market-sale homes.

Sheppard Robinson has provided the design for the scheme, which forms part of an overall master plan for the area. Improvements to the brownfield site will include 3,000 sqm of play areas and significant upgrades to landscaping and street works.

L&Q spoke of their excitement at the project, which will see them work closely with partners at the GLA and Greenwich Council.

IMAGE: L&Q Construction /Sheppard Robson476-home residential scheme at Greenwich Peninsula in South London

CIVIL, STRUCTURAL & GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING

With a team of more than 130, projects of over £800m in value and experience on buildings of 50-storeys or more, our highrise clients include Ballymore, Berkeley Group, Downing, Greystar, Lendlease, Qatari Diar and Urbanest.

Let us show you how Walsh can make your development both viable and inherently more sustainable, by arranging a meeting with one of our directors who head up all our projects:

contact@walsh.co.uk

020 7089 6800

www.walsh.co.uk

Elegant, buildable and sustainable solutions to the complex engineering challenges presented by tall buildings

Globally Renowned Architect Rafael Viñoly Dies Aged 78

Renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, famous in the UK for the ‘Walkie-Talkie’ tower, has died in New York aged 78. Responsible for hundreds of influential builds globally, the Rafael Viñoly Architects practice had studios in the London, Manchester, US, Abu Dhabi, and Buenos Aires. Famous buildings include the 432 Park Avenue skyscraper in New York City, known for being the tallest residential building in the world for a short time.

Outside of the UK Viñoly’s notable designs included the Van Andel Institute for cancer research in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and the Bronx County Hall of Justice. His competition-winning proposal for the Tokyo International Forum in Japan, featuring a glazed hall with a 60 metre high curtain wall of laminated glass, brought Viñoly worldwide recognition.

Viñoly was the mastermind behind the divisive Walkie Talkie Tower, a 37-storey London structure on Fenchurch Street. The building became infamous after

the curved glass facade reportedly caused damage to nearby properties due to reflected sunlight. Other UK projects included a visual arts facility in Colchester, and the Curve theatre project in Leicester.

The studio was also responsible for planning the Manchester City Football Academy next to the Etihad Stadium, the University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter and Mathematical Institute, and the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre at the University of Manchester.

In 2008 Viñoly was selected to oversee plans for a £5.5 billion overhaul of the Battersea power station. The original plan for the famous landmark featured a 300 metre glass ‘eco-tower’, however, this was later dropped. Viñoly was based in New York since 1978 but continued to work globally.

IMAGE: Jane Gitschier - Renowned architect Rafael Viñoly has died in New York aged 78

The regeneration arm of Peel Group has announced developer X1 will now build its 31-storey tower that will form part of its Liverpool Waters scheme. Patagonia Place had initially been scheduled to be delivered by Your Housing Group, but the residential provider opted to walk away from the development last year.

X1 will continue with Your Housing Group’s £50 million plans for the site, which planning consultant Arup helped to secure permission in 2020. The proposals include 278 apartments designed by Falconer Chester Hall.

Chris Capes, Director of Development at Liverpool Waters said: “With planning already approved by Liverpool City Council and a world-renowned residential developer at the helm, we are delighted that the construction of Patagonia Place can now proceed full steam ahead.”

Liverpool Waters is expected to be delivered over 30 years and is said to be a development that will ‘completely transform’ the city's northern docks, creating a sustainable world-class, high-quality waterfront, including retail, leisure, office and residential space – bringing life back to the historic docklands.

The waterfront development will be the home for the new Isle of Man ferry terminal, being built by McLaughlin & Harvey and Everton Football Club’s new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, being built by Laing O'Rourke.

IMAGE: Peel Group/ Liverpool Waters - Patagonia Place part of the Liverpool Waters development that will transform the northern docks

Peel Group Announce Developer X1 to Deliver Patagonia Place

CELEBRATING ICONIC STRUCTURES IN THE UK’S SECOND CITY

Historically renowned as a powerhouse of manufacturing and industry, Birmingham has a lot to celebrate. The UK’s second city is home to some of the most iconic structures in the country.

Birmingham boasts a rich heritage of design, architecture and construction ingenuity, from the famous Bullring to the largest public library in Europe. Reachable from most points in the UK within four hours, the city offers excellent transport links and is said to have more canals than Venice.

The effects of Birmingham’s growing landscape have spread far and wide. In regenerating the city, the population continues to soar and Birmingham has begun rivalling London in more ways than one. While the city’s built environment lies at the root of this progress, it has also catalysed a wealth of future investments .

This year Birmingham will play host to the Tall Buildings Conference being held on 13 June at the award-winning Millennium Point Conference Centre. In this issue of Tall Buildings Magazine, we highlight some of Birmingham’s most anticipated high-rise structures.

South Central Tower, Glancy Nicholls

Located on the corner of Bristol Street and Essex Street, South Central Tower is a 30-storey residential project delivering 166 high-end apartments. Due for completion in Q2 2024, the development forms part of a growing cultural and business hub.

Working with Regal Property Group, Glancy Nicholls designed South Central Tower’s features to reference the area's terracotta tradition. The development combines low-carbon materials and technologies to create a building that honours heritage while being environmentally conscious and future-proof.

Lisa Deering, Director of Glancy Nicholls Architects, will be at Tall Buildings Conference to talk about delivering a high-rise project that blends in with the unique aesthetic of Birmingham’s historical heritage.

The Octagon, Howells

The Octagon is a unique feat of design and engineering, offering the world’s first pure octagonal high-rise residential building. Taller than the iconic BT Tower, the Octagon will be 49-storeys of build-to-rent apartments. Developer Argent’s Regional Director Rob Groves described the project: “Our ambition with Octagon is simple. To build one of the finest apartment schemes ever seen in the UK. Everything about the building –its height, the size of the apartments themselves and their design, the views, and the location in the city centre – will be a first.”

Alan McCartney, Partner at Howells, will present a case study at Tall Buildings Conference about the project. His talk will give an overview of the concept behind the ambitious build and its delivery so far. Once complete, the Octagon will boast unparalleled panoramic city views from its 346 apartments.

Exchange Square (Phase 2), Stephenson Studio

The second phase of the Exchange Square development will bring a mixture of hotel, commercial, and business spaces to Birmingham.

Designed by Stephenson Studio, Exchange Square will become a landmark gateway to the city. Phase Two will be located adjacent to the residential development already completed by Stephenson Studio.

In his Tall Buildings Conference presentation, Keith Hamilton, Director of Stephenson Studio, will talk about how their design references the Brutiful Birmingham era of architecture. Brutiful Birmingham is a nod to the post-war design period that saw many of the most well-known landmarks constructed. Exchange Square is part of a £110 million masterplan by developer Nikal. Careful attention has been paid to the fire strategy of the building, with the plan including several additional safety features.

Building a Skyline for the Future

High-rise building continues to play an important role in the transformation of the Birmingham skyline. Many developments in planning or under construction will join existing builds like Cortland Broad Street, The Mercian, and 103 Colmore Row, the tallest office building outside London since 1973. The ongoing regeneration and modernisation of the city through innovative design and architecture

has positioned many of Birmingham’s neighbourhoods as growing cultural districts alongside the likes of London’s trendy Shoreditch and Manchester’s Northern Quarter.

Building a skyline for the future requires careful consideration. Conversations, particularly around fire safety, sustainability and net zero, dominate today's construction environment. Tall Buildings Conference seeks to highlight success - and provide the opportunity to discuss and tackle complex issues facing the sector.

The city’s skyline has been transformed over the past 30 years, filled with the iconic landmarks that reflect the incredible investment into Birmingham. This growth can be traced back to 1985, where a £3 billion investment saw the inception of the ICC, Brindleyplace and the Bullring, to name a few.

Birmingham has long been on an upward trajectory in more ways than one. From the increasing number of employment opportunities to greater economic output, the city is thriving and the built environment will continue to be at the root of this success.

South Central Tower

The Octagon Exchange Square (Phase 2)

TALL BUILDINGS CONFERENCE

RISING ABOVE EXPECTATIONS

With safety and sustainability top of the high-rise agenda, the 2023 Tall Buildings Conference will create a forum to debate some of the thorny issues that are dividing opinions together with celebrating the engineering feats that are transforming our city skylines.

13.06.2023

Scheduled to take place in central Birmingham at the Millennium Point Conference Centre on Tuesday 13 June, the Tall Buildings Conference is set to be the sectors premier networking opportunity of 2023.

Last December, the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities launched a consultation into new fire safety measures in highrise buildings, proposing installing second staircases in buildings over 30 metres. In addition, London Mayor Sadiq Khan has said all planning applications for new residential buildings above 30 metres must now have second staircases before going to the Greater London Authority (GLA) for final sign off.

And then there is also the matter of sustainability. Over the next few years

tall building advocates will not only need to consider the changes in safety legislation but also how to meet net zero targets. As urbanisation around the UK drives demand for high-rise buildings, achieving zero carbon is one of the biggest challenges facing engineers.

Standing Shoulder to Shoulder with Industry Leaders

Through a dynamic combination of motivational speakers, informative case studies and a dedicated exhibition, delegates have the opportunity to learn more about the growing trends

BIRMINGHAM

Goodluck Hope - Ballymore

and changes happening within the industry. The conference looks to the future and explores the elevated innovations that are making high-rise buildings greener, safer and inclusive by offering more opportunities for public access.

The Tall Buildings Conference will also give delegates a chance to learn more about the growing trends and changes happening within the industry – such as the increasing influence of modern methods of construction on building performance, early-stage risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance.

Acclaimed Speakers

With an impressive array of speakers, the conference brings together those who are at the cutting-edge of the high-rise industry. Fostering a culture of intelligence sharing and knowledge exchange, this event provides city developers, investors, local authorities, architects, engineers and contractors with an exclusive opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges involved.

Chaired by Steve Watts from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, speakers are confirmed to appear from leading companies such as Laing O'Rourke, Fieldfisher, Glancy Nicholls, Ambar Kelly, Arup, Howells Architects, Stephenson Studio, Herzog & de Meuron, Skidmore Owings & Merrill and Urban Habitat.

The first half of the day will see case study presentations from Alan McCartney from Howells Architects on Birmingham’s much-anticipated Octagon Tower – a £110 million project due for completion in 2025 and Paul Rigby of FaulknerBrowns on Hadrian’s Tower. Peter Jackson, Principal of Skidmore Owings & Merrill, will also present a talk on Achieving Net Zero in Tall Buildings. Sam Ward, Programme Leader at Laing O’Rourke’s global technology and innovation group will

SECURE YOUR PLACE

be explaining how Laing O'Rourke and Kone's Modular Elevator Solution allows project teams to install a threestorey lift module in just 90 minutes.

Designing for Safety Panel Debate

A focus on fire safety will form much of the afternoon agenda. Chaired by Cecily Davis, Partner at Fieldfisher –Step Change: Designing for Safety in Tall Buildings panel debate will garner opinions on the second staircase ruling and discuss the best way forward whilst there is still uncertainty surrounding the proposed legislation.

Cecily will be joined by panellists Nick Atkinson, Director of Ambar Kelly; Colin Blanchford-Brown, Operational Policy Lead for HSE; David Fitzpatrick, Partner at SMAY Ventilation and David Stow, Fire Engineering Lead at Arup.

These experts in the field will share a wealth of knowledge on designing for fire safety in tall buildings.

Afternoon case study presentations will once more put the spotlight on some of the ambitious projects taking place in Birmingham. Keith Hamilton will deliver insights into Phase 2 of the Exchange Square development. Designed by Stephenson Studio the mixed use hotel, commercial, and business scheme will become a landmark gateway to the city. Lisa Deering, Director of Glancy Nicholls Architects, will give a talk on South Central Tower. The project combines low-carbon materials and technologies to create a building that honours heritage while being environmentally conscious and future-proof.

Easily accessible by car or rail, Birmingham offers a prime location for discussing the future of tall building design, boasting some of the most iconic high-rises in the country. The 2022 Tall Buildings Conference saw over 200 delegates attending and 2023 looks likely to be another sell-out event.

To book your place go to: www.tallbuildingsconference.co.uk/book For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities email: shane.chebsey@radar-communications.co.uk

Hadrian's Tower - FaulknerBrowns Architects

13.06.2023

MILLENIUM POINT, BIRMINGHAM Speaker Programme

08:30 Registration, Exhibitor Viewing & Networking

09:30 INTRODUCTION FROM SESSION CHAIR

Steve Watts, Chairman - Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat

09:35

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Steve Watts, Chairman - Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat

Tall Buildings Ain’t What They Used To Be

09:55 Alan McCartney, Partner - Howells

A Case Study on The Octagon

10:15 Ben Blackwood, Head of On-Site Design / Fire Risk Management ChampionBallymore

A Case Study on Goodluck Hope

10:35 Samuel Ward, EU R&D Programme Leader / Engineering Lead - Laing O’Rourke

Laing O’Rourke & KONE’s Modular Elevator Solution

10:55 Q&A Panel Discussion

11:05 Refreshment Break, Exhibitor Viewing & Networking

SESSION CHAIR

Cecily Davis, Partner - Fieldfisher

11:45 Peter Jackson, Principal - Skidmore Owings & Merrill

Achieving Net-Zero in Tall Buildings

12:05 Robert Lunn, Lead Architect - MAKE Architects

A Case Study on 20-22 Ropemaker Street

12:25 Paul Rigby, Partner, ArchitectFaulknerBrowns Architects

A Case Study on Hadrian’s Tower

12:45 John O’Mara, UK Studio DirectorHerzog & de Meuron

A Case Study on One Park Drive

13:05

13:15

Q&A Panel Discussion

Lunch, Exhibitor Viewing & Networking

SESSION CHAIR

Cecily Davis, Partner - Fieldfisher

14:15

Keith Hamilton, Director - Stephenson Studio

A Case Study on Exchange Square Phase 2

14:35 Lisa Deering, Director - Glancy Nicholls

Architects

A Case Study on South Central Tower

14:55

15:05

15:25

Q&A Panel Discussion

Cecily Davis, Partner - Fieldfisher

Building Safety: What next for UK high-rise?

HEADLINE EXHIBITOR AUDIENCE ADDRESS

Nick Atkinson, Director - Ambar Kelly

A Review of Fire Testing & Regulations

15:45

PANEL DEBATE

Step Change: Designing for Fire Safety in Tall Buildings

Nick Atkinson, Director - Ambar Kelly

Colin Blachford-Brown, Operational Policy

Lead for Gateways and Building ControlHealth & Safety Executive

David Fitzpatrick, Head of SFS - SFS Division of Exyte Hargreaves

David Stow, Fire Engineering Lead - Arup

16:30

KEYNOTE SPEAKER CLOSING COMMENTS

Steve Watts, Chairman - Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat

16:40 Event End

13.06.2023

MILLENNIUM POINT BIRMINGHAM

LAST CHANCE TO BOOK

Now in its fourth year, the TALL BUILDINGS CONFERENCE is set to be the premier networking opportunity of the year. Through a dynamic combination of motivational speakers, informative case studies and an exhibition, delegates have the opportunity to learn more about the growing trends and changes happening within the industry. The conference looks to the future and explores the elevated innovations that are making high-rise buildings greener, safer and inclusive by offering more opportunities for public access.

TICKETS £145+VAT

Includes entry into the conference & exhibition, lunch and refreshments throughout plus access to the speaker presentations post-event.

For more information, visit: WWW.TALLBUILDINGSCONFERENCE.CO.UK

LIFTING PRECAST CONCRETE TO NEW HEIGHTS

The use of precast concrete panels for construction projects is increasingly popular and it is easy to see why. The panels are manufactured offsite which can significantly reduce programme time and, when managed correctly, there is also less lifting and moving of materials which can create a safer work environment with fewer hazards. Plus, assembling the panels offsite can reduce on site waste and help the project become more environmentally friendly.

However, precast concrete requires different lifting solutions from other building methods due to the size and weight of the panels. Bennetts Cranes, the UK's leading specialist tower crane hire company, has a fleet of cranes with the required lifting capacities.

ELEVATING THE LIFT CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

Laing O'Rourke has devised a modular elevator solution with manufacturer Kone which will slash on site installation time, the companies say. The rule of thumb for elevator installation is typically one week per floor. The new system allows project teams to install a three-storey lift module in just 90 minutes.

Laing O'Rourke and Kone began testing the concept in 2020 on Building S5 in King's Cross, advancing a solution that was originally used on cruise ships around a decade earlier.

"We designed a working system, delivering two prototypes, both of which proved that the concept worked and that a lift could be modularised," said Sam Ward, programme leader at Laing O'Rourke's global technology and innovation group.

"Workers on site do not have to deal with the usual volume of deliveries or the proliferation of exclusion zones as the shafts are installed. This is because volumetric frames are fabricated offsite then assembled. The modular system also encourages a safer working environment for the fitters. We move work from a relatively confined dark, damp space on site to a controlled factory environment. Also, there is only one delivery instead of multiple deliveries with multiple small components.”

These include the Sáez SL 450, the Raimondi 330 and the newest addition, the Sáez SL 730, with an impressive maximum lift capacity of 36 tonnes.

One example of a building project using precast concrete is the St Martin’s Place development of luxury apartments in Birmingham. Here the construction company responsible used fully glazed precast concrete panels. Two freestanding Sáez SL 450 luffing jib tower cranes, capable of lifting up to 24 tonnes each, were supplied by Bennetts Cranes to manage the heavy-lifting requirements.

To find out more about cranes for lifting precast concrete, visit: www.tower-crane.co.uk/precastconcrete-cranes

Laing O'Rourke has a long-standing offsite strategy, with the aim of making 90% of its construction work factorybuilt by 2025.

Sam Ward will be presenting

‘Laing O'Rourke and Kone's Modular Elevator Solution’ at the Tall Buildings Conference. For more information and to book your place go to: www.tallbuildingsconference.co.uk

For more information: www.laingorourke.com www.kone.co.uk

Sáez SL 450 lifting precast panels at St Martin’s Place © Bennetts Cranes

UNLOCK EXCELLENCE WITH BESPOKE CURTAIN WALLING

Combining form and function to support architectural excellence, glazed curtain walling delivers a modern aesthetic while helping to create a comfortable living and working environment. Through a bespoke approach, aluminium facades can help to create outstanding building designs.

Dan Gleeson, Reynaers Head of Commercial Sales, outlines the benefits of choosing glazed curtain walling.

architects to specify systems which maximise creative freedom, without compromising the performance benefits required.

Ensuring Correct Specification

To unlock the benefits made possible through curtain walling, it is crucial to work closely with suppliers and design teams from the outset of a project. Particularly on large scale projects, such as high-rise buildings, where curtain walling is most in demand.

Curtain wall systems equip architects with the freedom to create an aesthetically led facade which meets the specific performance requirements of the building. There are two main types of curtain walling; stick and unitised facades – both of which can be adapted to create bespoke features that are engineered to emphasise geometry, or a particular profile.

Performance and Aesthetics

Spanning multiple floors and covering a large surface of the building, the curtain wall forms a significant part of the envelope. As such, systems can directly impact the performance of a structure, such as water tightness and thermal characteristics, daylighting, ventilation regimes, acoustics and building movement.

Each different curtain wall type offers varying levels of performance, depending on characteristics like profile design, gaskets, and openings. CW 50, for example – the leading

curtain wall system from Reynaers –offers all-round performance having passed CWCT Sequence B testing, providing independent accreditation. Different technical variants can also accommodate specific fire resistance requirements where needed.

While the technical performance of curtain walling is a primary consideration for architects, aesthetic requirements are another factor for including them in a design. As a fast and cost-effective way of introducing large volumes of glazing into a building, these systems can create a distinctive appearance.

For occupants, the benefits are clear. Large and often full height windows flood rooms with natural light, making them more comfortable, practical, and modern. They can create greater connections between inside and outside spaces, while also helping them to fit into their environment more easily. To achieve this, it is crucial for

At Reynaers we encourage direct collaboration between our partners. Through our Consult programme, in-house specialist consultants, engineers and technicians work closely with architects and building professionals to offer technical assistance and fully understand a project’s requirements.

Collaboration is the key to creating bespoke designs that allow visions to be realised through high quality curtain walling that offers excellent performance as well as stunning aesthetics.

To discover more about Reynaers

aluminium facades visit their team of experts at the Tall Buildings Conference, taking place at Millennium Point, Birmingham on Tuesday 13 June 2023

For more information: www.reynaers.co.uk

©Hufton+Crow

©Hufton+Crow

GO BEYOND WITH YOUR PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION

Fire safety must be at the heart of every stage of the construction process, especially on high-rise buildings. However, with new legislation and standards being introduced across the UK, it can be a challenge to ensure design and installation approaches are in line with Building Regulations and best practice.

Supported by Services that Go Beyond the Standard

Even the best passive fire protection can underperform if not specified and installed correctly. This is why Siderise has developed one of the most wellresourced and highly-trained Technical Services team in the sector. With an enormous amount of product test data and decades of experience, they offer free assistance, including specification advice, detailing, engineering judgements and CPD seminars.

In this environment, passive fire protection manufacturers have a vital role to play. They must not only provide tested and certified solutions but deliver these with the tools, services and guidance that will enable project teams to create buildings that meet the highest safety and performance standards.

Products That Go Beyond Requirements

At a basic level, project teams need access to fire safety products and solutions that not only achieve compliance but have been designed to take into consideration how they meet the real-life requirements of customers.

This has been a driving force for Siderise Insulation, setting the company at the forefront of passive fire safety innovation. This started in 1991, when the company developed vertically-fibred Lamella insulation

using patented technology to create a robust, pre-compressed solution that enables excellent fit, best-in-class fire performance and longevity with 60year age testing.

This technology is used throughout Siderise Insulation’s passive fire protection solutions, which are comprehensively fire tested to national and international standards— with more than 150 fire resistance tests with over 300 products and over 250 largescale reaction-to-fire tests to date.

Testing is the only way to determine the performance of passive fire protection products and suitability for their intended application. This is why Siderise opened its own £1 million Innovation Centre. Operational from January 2023, it features a specialist fire test furnace, enabling testing to any published fire test curve, including EN, ASTM, UL and ISO standards.

This technical support is continued onsite, with dedicated Siderise Site Services. In addition to providing project-specific advice, they were the first in the industry to have their Product Installation Training delivery method certified to ISO 29993: 2017 and in the last year delivered training to over 2,000 people and conducted over 1,350 site visits.

Let’s Go Beyond Together

As global experts in passive fire protection, Siderise are dedicated to acting as a trusted project partner. With a robust testing approach and investment in ensuring technical excellence, Siderise are equipping design and construction teams across the globe with the cutting-edge solutions and tools they need to create a safe built environment for the future.

For more information: www.gobeyond.siderise.com

Image:

The new Siderise Innovation centre features a specialist test furnace supporting research and quality control testing.

RIBA FORMS COALITION TO URGE GOVERNMENT FIRE SAFETY ACTION

A Royal Institute of British Architects-led coalition called on the government to adopt an 18 metre maximum height threshold for new residential buildings with a single staircase. Since the devastating fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017, the Royal Institute of British Architects has been advocating for stronger regulation to make the built environment as safe as it can be.

RIBA has been clear that consistency and clarity are needed on a height threshold at which two or more staircases are necessary to provide adequate access for firefighters and evacuation of residents from their homes.

In December 2022, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) launched a

consultation which sought views on the maximum height threshold for the provision of a single staircase in new residential buildings – the consultation proposed a 30 metre height threshold. RIBA responded to the consultation outlining that, from the best available evidence and guidance from their Expert Advisory Group on Fire Safety, RIBA believe that the appropriate threshold for a second staircase in new

residential buildings is 18 metres. RIBA state an 18 metre height threshold would harmonise with the wider regulatory environment and aligns with requirements in Scotland, which have been in place for four years.

RIBA has written a letter to Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Secretary of State, Rt Hon Michael

Gove MP, outlining the reasons for their 18 metre position, and why RIBA believe the government must adopt this. The letter is also signed by organisations representing multiple sectors - the built environment, fire safety and disability rights groups, including: Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Housing Learning and Improvement Network (Housing LIN), Disability Rights UK, Inclusion London and Claddag (Leaseholder Disability Action Group).

Why 18 Metres?

While opinions exist for a range of thresholds, both higher and lower, RIBA argue an 18 metre threshold would bring the greatest harmonisation with the wider regulatory environment, and therefore the greatest simplicity and certainty for the industry at this time.

An 18 metre threshold would align with definitions in the Building Safety Act, as well as thresholds for certain provisions in the Fire Safety (England) Regulations, and the amendments to fire safety provisions within Approved Document B in relation to fire alert systems in blocks of flats with storeys over 18 metres.

RIBA claim this would also help to synchronise standards across the United Kingdom by aligning to rules in Scotland, which has required two staircases in new residential buildings over 18 metres for four years.

Better Alignment in Regulations

In England, there is currently no maximum height for residential buildings with a single staircase. In contrast ‘Buildings other than dwellings’ are only permitted a single stair up to 11 metres, under Approved Document B, Volume 2.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, increased hybrid working patterns mean that occupants are spending more time in their homes. Therefore, an 18 metre height threshold for requiring a second staircase in residential buildings would better align with non-residential requirements.

What Further Action is Needed?

While RIBA believe 18 metres is the correct height for a second staircase for new residential buildings, it is not a panacea for fire safety. RIBA also urge the government to undertake a full review of Approved Document B, to ensure that regulations and guidance are consistent, clear, unambiguous and actually deliver safe buildings.

What Does This Mean for Existing Single Staircase Buildings Over 18m?

Critically, it is important to note that there is an extensive existing single staircase housing stock. An 18 metre height threshold for a second staircase in new residential buildings does not make existing single staircase residential buildings inherently unsafe. However, to ensure existing buildings are as safe as possible, RIBA recommend that the government require existing single staircase residential buildings over 18 metres be refurbished with evacuation lifts, sprinklers and centrally addressable fire alarm systems as ‘consequential improvements’ where a building is subject to 'material alterations'.

Read RIBA’s full consultation response to government here: www.architecture.com/about/policy/ consultation-responses/fire-safety

For more information: www.architecture.com

12,500 HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS TO REGISTER ON NEW PORTAL

The Health and Safety Executive's new digital portal for the registration of high-rise buildings is now live. Anyone acting as the principal accountable person should submit details to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) before 30 September 2023.

the building), along with details of the building control final certificate and structural information. Once the registration process has begun, companies will have 28 days to submit the relevant safety information.

Peter Baker, Chief Inspector of Buildings at the HSE and head of the BSR, said: “The registration portal would usher in a new era for building safety regulation.” He also said that he was aiming for a ‘world-leading’ regime.

All occupied residential buildings deemed 'higher-risk' – defined by government guidelines as over 18 metres in height - should be submitted to the portal. There are exceptions to the requirements and buildings that are used as hospitals, care homes, secure residential institutions, hotels, military premises and prisons are exempt.

Registration is a legal requirement and failure to complete will be a criminal offense. The fee to register is £251 per building. More than 12,500 buildings will need to be registered before the deadline this autumn.

The portal will increase the focus on safety standards required for highrise structures. The government has recently issued guidance on how to register buildings, including cases where two or more structures are

connected. New builds completed after the deadline should have a completion certificate and will need to be registered before occupation by residents.

After 01 October, principle accountable persons will be responsible for conducting building safety risk assessments. They will also need to evidence risk management and safety case reports. From April 2024, the BSR will issue building assessment certificates.

Details input into the portal must be accurate and up to date. The portal requires information on the number of floors, the height of the building, the number of units and the year of construction. Additional information must be provided regarding the principle accountable person (the owner or leaseholder responsible for

The BSR held their inaugural conference in London on 23 March. At the event, Peter Baker spoke about the importance of the new safety regime, and the important role of the ‘golden thread’ – a digital paper trail of safety information relating to a building’s design and construction.

He added: “The changes will ensure for the first time there is a consistent source of information about higher risk buildings and that residents and users will know absolutely who is responsible for the safety of that building.”

“We are now aspiring to put into place a building safety regime that is world leading and puts residents at the heart but it’s not for the government or the regulator to tell you how to best manage the risks in your projects and buildings. Only you can decide how to do this, you must take ownership of the risks in the built environment.”

For more information: www.gov.uk/guidance/registera-high-rise-residential-building

PARTEL DEVELOPS TWO NEW FIRE-RATED BREATHER MEMBRANES

Partel, a leading manufacturer of airtight and windtight membranes, has developed two new fire-rated breather membranes that exceed current fire-safety regulation levels for high-rise and high-risk buildings –EXOPERM DURO A1 and EXOPERM MONO DURO A2.

The high-performance membranes are designed to achieve the highest levels of fire-performance while also protecting the building by allowing vapour to diffuse from within the structure towards the exterior, preventing ‘thermal bypass’ of external air through the insulation, and performing the secondary task of weather protection.

Suited to offsite and on site construction, residential or commercial projects, EXOPERM DURO A1 and EXOPERM MONO DURO A2 are

fully independently certified and tested in accordance with EN13501-1. The membranes are compliant with Document B Fire Safety and are suitable for use in a range of external wall types, especially in high-rise buildings or those that pose a greater risk of fire safety.

EXOPERM DURO A1 is noncombustible and suitable for use on closed joint facades. Alongside fire performance, EXOPERM DURO A1’s technical attributes ensure long-term protection of the assembly, with a highly vapour open Sd value of 0.03 m, along with resistance to water penetration and dimensional stability.

EXOPERM MONO DURO A2 is an innovative airtight yet vapour permeable facade membrane, based on Monolithic Technology. This is Class A2-s1,d0, guaranteeing limited-

combustibility, absent or very limited smoke emissions, and no burning droplets. It is suitable for use on open or closed joint facades and balances airtightness, moisture management and secondary weather protection with fire performance.

For more information: www.partel.co.uk

DELTABEAM® GREEN LIGHTENING YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT

DELTABEAM® Green is the new, environmentally friendly version of Peikko’s Slim Floor Structural DELTABEAM®. It offers the same benefits as the standard beam, but the environmental impact has been reduced significantly when compared to traditional steel structures.

Whilst building with DELTABEAM® Green is just as efficient there is added environmental value. Using DELTABEAM® Green is the perfect solution when calculating the total lifecycle emissions of your project – it cuts CO2 emissions by up to 50% compared to standard steel, composite or concrete beams. The sustainable benefits are confirmed by Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) and project specific calculations of CO2 emissions are made based on this certificate. The EPD’s white papers include fire tests, technical manuals and all software is available via the Peikko website.

DELTABEAM® GREEN delivers low carbon impact of A1-A3 @1.15kgC02e/kg.

Benefits include fireproof design, reduced building height, flat soffit, additional floors in same height, low embodied carbon, and DELTABEAM® works with precast concrete, timber, steel or insitu concrete floors and supporting walls or columns.

By choosing DELTABEAM® Green and its eco-friendly design that includes everything from materials to production and from certifications to transport, you will not only do what has to be done, you’ll do what needs to be done. As the construction industry and buildings create roughly 30 to 40 percent of all global waste, DELTABEAM® Green is the first but important step towards a greener future.

For more information: www.peikko.co.uk

LONDON’S TALLEST LIMESTONE BUILDING SINCE ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL

A highly skilled project team is behind the construction of London’s tallest limestone building since St Paul’s Cathedral. Designed to meet the high demand for quality, sustainable office space in the UK capital –20-22 Ropemaker Street is the largest commercial development ever given the all-clear by planning authority Islington Council.

The focal point of the 25-storey-tall building, the distinctive facade, uses Portuguese limestone cladding across the largest elevations. The 50mm thick limestone panels form cladding units generally measuring 3 metres x 2 metres and weigh as much as 4.5 tonnes. Portuguese limestone provides aesthetic benefits and longevity for a building that is robust yet high quality. Double-height glazing around the building reveals the showstopping staircase within the ground-level reception space. Mechanical, electrical and plant services sit in the basement, the eleventh floor and the roof.

A Standout Project

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is at the core of 20-22 Ropemaker Street. Providing more than 40,000 sqft of office, community and retail space, the building design focuses on performance and occupant wellbeing.

Main contractor Skansa aims to achieve BREEAM Outstanding and Platinum ratings for the completed development. The unique stepped design allows access to biodiversity and natural elements, delivered through outside space spanning three-quarters of the floorplates via balconies and landscaped terraces to enhance resident wellbeing. This will provide access to fresh air for occupants with stunning city views. A photovoltaic array on the roof and generators powered by diesel alternative hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) fuel will help the development to meet high environmental standards.

The use of recycled and secondary aggregates to reduce waste, along with a sustainable procurement plan to ensure all timber used is FSC certified will help the team achieve the musthave BREEAM Outstanding 2018 rating. Particular attention has been paid to the efficient use of water and energy, utilising materials that mitigate impact on local ecosystems.

Construction and Design

Construction began with a threestory-deep basement featuring 900mm to 1200mm diameter, secant pile retaining walls to 30 metres. Steelwork specialist William Hare installed the building frame, totalling over 7,5000 tonnes of structural steel. The frame features 13.5 metres spans and 450mm-diameter circular steel columns to support the inner office floorplate. Vierendeel trusses helped increase frame support, with lightweight aggregate used within the floor slabs.

This prestigious project, part of a £250 million contract, is set to raise the standards for quality office space in this highly sought-after area. Set amid a predominantly glass and concrete landscape, 20-22 Ropemaker Street will provide London with an iconic new high-rise landmark.

Client: Old Park Lane Management

Developer: Co-Re

Architects: Make Architects

Main Contractor: Skanska

For more information:

www.makearchitects.com

A comprehensive case study, delivered by the team behind the build, will be presented as part of the Tall Buildings Conference on 13 June taking place at Millennium Point, Birmingham.

Guidance from The Concrete Centre

Concrete is inherently suited to all buildings, including tall construction, with the many bene ts that concrete can provide including re resistance, thermal mass, acoustic separation and robustness. These bene ts assist with the construction of buildings that are safe, cost-e ective and easy to maintain or accept change-of-use.

The Concrete Centre provides published guidance, webinars, seminars, courses, online resources and industry research to the design community.

For more information on how The Concrete Centre can help you achieve the aims of your project visit www.concretecentre.com.

Download these titles and more from www.concretecentre.com/publications

www.concretecentre.com

@concretecentre

Image: 24-25 storey towers at Hoola development, London. © Jack Hobhouse

RISER SHAFT FLOORING:

WHAT ARE WE DOING RIGHT?

The riser shaft exists in every multi-storey building in the world, connecting every floor of the building. Nick Atkinson, Company Director at Ambar Kelly discusses the matter of design responsibility, which he believes is still a contested issue.

When none of the parties that work on the riser perceive its design as their responsibility, risks are created. What is the industry doing to prevent these risks?

The riser shaft starts its life as a series of holes in structural floors; one above the other. Walls are installed around the holes, then they are filled with the necessary mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services. For buildings over 18 metres according to guidelines and codes of practice these shafts should be closed off with 30-minute temporary fire doors, in addition to

having temporary 60-minute passive horizontal fire protection on every fifth floor. Once the services are installed, they are closed off with permanent fire doors.

No Single Point of Responsibility

Despite the riser shaft being a key aspect of any high-rise building, there is no single point of responsibility. The present approach to riser flooring requires no design responsibility by the principal designer and the risk of fire through a shaft during construction is not added to the risk register to manage. This is against Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015, General Principles of Prevention - ‘avoid risk in design where possible’. Evidently, when there is no single point of responsibility, substantial risks are created.

The principal contractor’s role is to manage the risk, and then deliver efficient build ability through their

supply chain. Subcontractors competing for the contract need a commercial advantage, resulting in risks being apportioned to separate packages. But how relevant it is to an early package in the build sequence means the focus is only on fall protection, subsequently creating a set of latent risks which are simply seen as things to manage.

The subcontractor building the structural frame becomes the designer and installer of the temporary riser protection, with the principal contractor then promoting this as the permanent riser flooring option. However, the problem is that it has not been design reviewed by the professional team, the use of differing fall protection products based on historic usage is highly problematic as it can lead to the use of combustible fall protection products in a riser shaft space. Principal designers should be designing out risk during the initial

design phase and specifying riser flooring to a Euroclass A1 standard.

Non-Combustible Modular Riser Flooring

Ambar Kelly is a leading expert in riser flooring design and the manufacturer of a permanent non-combustible, modular riser flooring - RiserSafe® - which is typically cast in to the structural frame.

Our innovative approach to riser flooring design is a completely bespoke product, which provides a single solution to the 16 separate trade packages that interconnect with the riser shaft. It also drives the coordination to incorporate the MEP services needed to complete construction of the riser shaft.

The flexible and versatile nature of the system ensures that all project requirements are met. The unique technical value of a permanent modular riser flooring system comes from having no hole (and therefore no risk) during the construction of the structural frame, through to the savings

in activities in other trade packages that interconnect with the riser shafts significantly reducing project expenses and lasting the life of the building. 3D modelling and technical support of our contracts managers enables the creation of a fully customised product, which is right the first time. Therefore, no costs are required for on site modifications.

Our philosophy is that prevention is better than cure when it comes to on site safety; the fundamental purpose of our riser flooring system. We believe that no life should ever be put at risk by falling from height or the spread of fire through construction or building use. There are many great products on the market; we would like to think ours will help on the right project and the right hole. The foundation of the right permanent riser flooring is one that simultaneously forms and protects the riser opening. This provides a physical barrier to fire and supports other required installation activities. Ultimately, this removes risk through design: no hole, no risk.

For more information on RiserSafe® and to arrange a meeting with our industry experts: Visit: www.ambar-kelly.com or call 01707 324523

Images: 01-02. RiserSafe® went through a robust testing regime 03: RiserSafe® is a total modular riser zone solution

MANCHESTER’S TOWER OF LIGHT AN ICON OF SUSTAINABLE ENERGY

Ten years of innovation and research have gone into Manchester's striking Tower of Light, the largest built shell lace structure to date. A symbol of the city's commitment to sustainability, the 40 metre tall tower saves Manchester 1,600 tonnes of carbon emissions per year.

aesthetic role. During the day polished reflectors reflect sunlight into the tower chambers, filling the building with natural, moving light. At night a pre-programmed sequence of LED lights illuminates the building. During events of cultural significance, the low energy lights will use different colours to create a landmark illumination that meets Manchester’s low-carbon ambition and Climate Change Action Plan.

Modern Methods of Construction

A Sustainability Icon

Award Winning Design

The winner of the 2022 Building Beauty Award, the nine storey Tower of Light supports and encloses the flues for a new low-carbon energy centre. Created by pioneering architects Tonkin Liu in collaboration with engineering specialists Arup, the design takes inspiration from nature. The eye-catching shell lace design uses six and eight millimetre thick flat steel sheets, laser cut and welded to create a lightweight but exceptionally strong structure. The Wall of Energy which encompasses the energy centre is a 63 metre long, 4- 6 metre height street facade. The Tower of Light has garnered significant positive attention winning multiple awards, including the Structural Design Awards and Public Realm Civic Trust Award in 2022.

From design to construction, sustainability has been at the heart of the Tower of Light. The energy centre it encompasses serves heating to several local landmarks, including Bridgewater Hall, the central library and convention centre, and Manchester Town Hall. The centre produces enough energy to supply a two-kilometre area, making it a highly efficient source of heat and power. The heat from the powergenerating CHP engine creates hot water distributed via insulated district pipework across the city. The Energy Centre contains a highly efficient 3.3MWe CHP engine with two backup 12MW gas boilers. Further low/zerocarbon energy technologies can be incorporated into the centre in the future - including green gas, hydrogen fuel and heat pumps.

Located in part of Manchester’s historic district, the tower also uses minimal energy - with natural light playing an environmental and

The structure was fabricated by Shawton Engineering, with the intricate welding completed by highly experienced operatives. Darwen Terracotta, one of the most wellknown terracotta companies in the UK, created the ceramic tiles for the tower. Advanced digital modelling, analysis and precision fabrication were used throughout to achieve the highly intricate and detailed design. Located in an area that has undergone significant redevelopment over recent years, the Tower of Light is designed as a symbol of the city's goal of becoming zero carbon by 2038.

Client: Manchester City Council and Vital Energi

Architects: Tonkin Liu

Structural Engineer: Arup

For more information: www.tonkinliu.co.uk

©Tonkin Liu

©Tonkin Liu

At Siderise®, we believe that when it comes to fire safety, doing ‘just enough’ is never enough.

As global experts in passive fire protection, we dedicate ourselves to delivering products, systems, and services with integrity that Go Beyond®. Through our dedication to robust testing and our investment in nurturing technical excellence, we are equipping design and construction teams all over the world with the cutting-edge tools and solutions they need to Go Beyond to create a safer built environment... long into the future.

If you’re ready to Go Beyond with us, get in touch at siderise.com.

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