Construction and Civil Engineering Issue 113 Final Edition

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M AGAZINE

FOR

IN DUST RIA L

LE ADER S

ISSUE 113 FINAL

CONSTRUCTION

&CIVIL Engineering Opening in 2015, the new Alder Hey in the Park is going to be a world-class hospital facility

Parklife See page 2

Reducing hazards

Building a solution

Minimising the health and safety risks in the field of construction

Addressing the need to deliver more affordable housing requires a combination of solutions

3D technology triumph 3D modelling has played an essential role in the redevelopment of King’s Cross

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CONTENTS

Chairman Andrew Schofield Group Managing Director Mike Tulloch

FEATURES

2Cover story

MAJOR PROJECT 2 Alder Hey in the Park will be the first NHS park for children, and will feature enhanced clinic areas, education and research facilities, new operating theatres and a new A&E

Editor Libbie Hammond

libbie@schofieldpublishing.co.uk

HEALTH & SAFETY 6

Editorial Design Jon Mee

How can we minimse the risks in construction – failure to address even simple problemscan cause problems down the line

Advertising Design Fleur Daniels Staff Writers Matt High Jo Cooper Steve Nash Andrew Dann Editorial Admin Matt High Head of Research Philip Monument

6

Sales Director David Garner

12

EQUIPMENT 12 A large plastic modular tank has been installed as part of a £21 million sewer treatment facility upgrade How cloud computing is transforming the construction sector – it creates a raft of benefits to users

16

CASE STUDY 16 The station redevelopment of King’s Cross has utilised 3D modelling technology to meld Grade 1 architecture and state-of-the-art design

SOCIAL HOUSING 20 Some of the funding and investment decisions required for the delivery of affordable housing COMPANY PROFILES

Production/Office Manager Tracy Chynoweth

© 2015 Schofield Publishing Ltd

Has the Government’s Help to Buy Scheme stimulated the house-building sector? The debate about HTB rumbles on

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 14

Sales David King Mark Cawston

Schofield Publishing Cringleford Business Centre, 10 Intwood Road, Cringleford, Norwich, NR4 6AU, U.K. Tel: +44 (0)1603 274130 Fax: +44 (0)1603 274131

Updates and information from the construction and civil engineering market

HOUSE BUYING 10

Research Manager Laura Watling Editorial Researchers Keith Hope Tarj Kaur-D’Silva Mark Cowles Tony Wright Michael Coleman

NEWS 9, 13, 19

22

HTC Plant 22 Briggs & Forrester 26 Forbo Eurocol 30 Kierbeck THAMES 34 Birtley Group 36 BOSTIK 39 HELÉNS ROR 44 NORMET 48 WILLOWBROOK PLANT SERVICES 51 MILBANK CONCRETE PRODUCTS 55 LONDON BASEMENT 60 KONE 66

Please note: The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers within this publication do not necessarily coincide with those of the editor and publisher. Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the information published is accurate, but no legal responsibility for loss occasioned by the use of such information can be accepted by the publisher. All rights reserved. The contents of the magazine are strictly copyright, the property of Schofield Publishing, and may not be copied, stored in a retrieval system, or reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Construction & Civil Engineering 1

Major project

Parklife Due to open in 2015, the new Alder Hey in the Park children’s hospital is not just a first for the UK but also for Europe

in October r construction e hospital unde th of ot sh l ria An ae

2014

A CGI showing how the completed Alder Hey in the Park will look

I

t will be the first NHS health park for children and will provide a total rebuild of the existing Alder Hey hospital; which is already one of Europe’s busiest children’s hospitals, caring for over 270,000 young people and their families every year.

Alder Hey in the Park is going to be an entirely new, world-class facility, with a design inspired by children.

Indeed, thousands of families took part in one of the NHS’s biggest-ever public consultations in order to come up with the best design, and many suggestions like better access to fresh

2 Construction & Civil Engineering

air and nature have been included in the plans. A drawing by 15-yearold Eleanor Brogan also impressed architects and inspired their final design. The team have continued to work closely with young people to get their input, and Alder Hey’s Children’s and Young People’s Forum helped to recruit an artist to work on the hospital’s interior design. Once the new Alder Hey opens, a Children’s Board will take an active role in the hospital and make sure that young people are given a voice.

With a worldwide reputation, the existing Alder Hey hospital is still an

exceptional facility, but at 99 years old it doesn’t have room to expand.

This new start allows the NHS Trust to use all its research and expertise to give children and families the best possible hospital experience in Europe. It will have vastly improved clinic areas, education and research facilities, new operating theatres and a new A&E. Innovations at the new hospital also include the fact that 75 per cent of beds will be single, en-suite rooms with pull-out beds for parents; there will be access to play areas, natural light and striking views of the park

will be available wherever possible; and children, young people and teenagers will have dedicated areas to play and relax.

Alder Hey in the Park is also one of the most sustainable 24-hour hospitals ever built with 60 per cent of energy generated on site by ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels and much more. Divided into three ‘fingers’ housing clinical services and plant rooms, it will be serviced by a high performing energy centre, which is already complete. One of the primary achievements so far is

the use of digital engineering and modular wiring solutions to deliver this energy centre. The fast-pace of construction has meant that after only 20 weeks onsite, the services began to be installed (whereas usually this would take nine months).

Offsite manufacture (DfMA) has also been essential to the quick delivery of this hospital – for example, after only a year onsite, over 800 external facade panels had been installed, having been manufactured at Laing O’Rourke’s Explore Industrial Park (EIP) using four different colours of concrete panels to mimic

the look of the Liverpool Limestreet Station.

Once the building is complete, the old hospital will be demolished, recycling around 95 per cent of the material. This site will be transformed into new parkland, handing back to the community the green space that was ‘borrowed’ for the new Alder Hey.

Topping out A year after construction of the hospital began in June 2013, the topping out ceremony of the new building took place in June 2014, and Alder Hey and construction and

Construction & Civil Engineering 3

MAJOR PROJECT

engineering firm Laing O’Rourke held a special celebration in honour of the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Anna Stewart, Laing O’Rourke’s CEO said: “Today we reach the half-way point of this impressive building. We’ve been onsite for a year and have one year still to go which will make it the fastest hospital we’ve ever delivered.”

Chair of Alder Hey Sir David Henshaw added: “This is a momentous milestone on our incredible journey into our new hospital in the park.

Today’s event marks the official ‘topping out’ of the new hospital but it is also the beginning of a 12-month countdown before we move into our new home.

“The new building is as impressive as we had hoped for and is testament to the hard work of all those involved.

We have a lot of hard work to do as we prepare to move and use the opportunity the new building will give us to look after children and young people in the future. The excitement can now start to build as we prepare to open our doors to our new hospital next year.”

David Powell, Project Director of Alder Hey in the Park said: “Today is

A sample bedroom already complete

a great moment for staff at Alder Hey, Acorn and Laing O’Rourke but particularly all those who have been closely involved in the project.

Our brief to the team at Acorn was unique and extremely challenging and today we can see how they have managed to turn our dream into a reality.”

Research and Education Alongside the new hospital, a three story Research and Education Facility is also being constructed, which will be home to around 100

education, research and clinical staff.

The new facility will place Alder Hey and Liverpool as a national and international leader in the development of safer and more effective medicines for children and young people. Funding for the new facility has been generously provided

by Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, University of Liverpool, the Wolfson Foundation, the European Regional Development Fund, Matalan, Liverpool City Council and Alder Hey Children’s Charity.

In September 2014 young people

Photovoltaics on the roof are just one of the features helping the new Alder Hey become one of the most sustainable 24-hour hospitals ever built

4 Construction & Civil Engineering

A first glimpse of the new wards as they take shape from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network (CRN): Children’s Young Person’s Advisory Group (YPAG) filled a time capsule with memories and information about paediatric research, which is to be buried on the site of the new Research and Education Centre.

Louise Shepherd, Alder Hey chief executive commented: “Alder Hey is already a centre of excellence for paediatric research and education in the UK which remains central to our future strategy. The new

facility will have research, education and treatment facilities that no other UK or European children’s hospital can offer. Sharing knowledge and expertise within a centre such as this will help us to confirm our place as a world leader and provide a facility for the highest level of research and development for future generations.”

Leading construction and infrastructure company Morgan Sindall was selected to build the new centre following a competitive tender process. Barry Roberts, Morgan Sindall area director, said: “Alder Hey

Children’s Hospital has touched the lives of many people throughout the years and the new Research and Education facility will result in lifechanging discoveries for many more.

Healthcare buildings are always special to us because of the positive impact they aim to have and we are looking forward to unveiling the finished facility to them in its centenary year, 2015.” m

http://www.alderhey.nhs. uk/about-us/alder-hey-inthe-park/

Construction & Civil Engineering 5

HEALTH & SAFETY

Reducing

hazards Construction is risky business.

In fact, according to statistics, it is the second most dangerous landbased work sector in Europe. So how can we minimise the hazards? Here we speak to experts in the field of construction to find out more 6 Construction & Civil Engineering

W

orking on a building site poses all kinds of risks – from falls, trips and electrocution to being struck by debris or hurting yourself on machinery.

And let’s not forget the other hazards, which exist in the form of asbestos, solvents, noise and manual handling. So how do you go about assessing the dangers and ensuring you have met all the

guidelines to create a safe work environment for staff?

Tackling the issues Identifying health and safety issues is paramount in any industry. But all too often employers fail to address simple problems, which can cause disaster down the line.

In 2013 an inspection by the HSE exposed serious safety concerns in 1100 sites around the UK. In 539 cases, prohibition notices were

‘‘

(c) Arup

Construction conditions have improved ten-fold from 15 years ago. But there is more to be done in terms of education about minimising the dangers

served forcing workers to down tools. A spokeswoman for the Health and Safety Executive said: ‘Where inspectors encountered poor practice, it often went hand in hand with a lack of understanding.’ So here are a few areas you should look at when reviewing the health and safety of your workplace: 1. Site organisation – including traffic management, protecting the public on site, preventing access by unauthorised people, materials

storage, sensible waste disposal and general welfare (adequate toilet facilities, drinking water, rest areas, changing rooms and lockers).

2. Slips, trips and falls – the single biggest cause of workplace injury.

Assess, eliminate and control the risk.

Look for uneven surfaces, obstacles, trailing cables, slippery surfaces and changes in level.

3. Work at height – look at all aspects of your building site from ground level up to the use of towers, scaffolds, platforms and ladders. Carry out training, provide safety harnesses and equipment.

4. Structural stability - assess the risks and prevent unintentional structural collapse during alterations, demolition and dismantling.

5. Cranes - all lifting operations involving lifting equipment must be properly planned by a competent person; appropriately supervised; and carried out in a safe manner.

6. Electricity - work safely with power supplies and electrical equipment; map overhead power lines and underground cables to prevent accidental contact with machinery.

7. Fire - identify the risks; control combustible materials and ignition sources; and make it clear exactly what to do if fire does break out.

8. Mobile plant and vehicles - assess the risks, establish competence to operate and control access.

9. Hazardous material – asbestos is the single biggest occupational disease risk to construction workers.

The Asbestos Licensing Unit sets out the guidelines for how to work in this environment. Asbestos training must be carried out.

Dayle Bayliss of Dayle Bayliss Associates

10. Demolition - all demolition, dismantling and structural alteration should be carefully planned and carried out by competent practitioners.

Know the rules Dayle Bayliss, who runs Dayle Bayliss Associates, an award winning construction consultancy working on projects across the UK, said that, although construction is one of the worst industries in Europe in terms of safety, there are various groups working towards improving safety.

“Construction conditions have improved ten-fold from 15 years ago,” she said. “But there is more to be done in terms of education about minimising the dangers.

“Right now there is some work being carried out to streamline laws and legislation which will make life a lot easier for contractors. At the moment, a two-tier system exists where domestic clients don’t have the same regulations as commercial projects. The co-ordination, communication and planning for Health and Safety doesn’t have the same emphasis in a domestic project.

“In essence the work is looking at improving co-ordination and communication and placing more emphasis on the fact that safety is everyone’s responsibility.”

The law in a nutshell: The following legislation and guidelines should be taken into consideration when undertaking a risk assessment on a construction site: l Under European Union Law, there are European Union Directives in place to protect workers, notably Directive 89/391 (the Framework Directive) and Directive 92/57 (the Temporary and Mobile Sites Directive). The legislation places requirements on employers (and others) to assess and protect workers health and safety. l The Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) has special legal status and gives practical advice for all those involved in construction work. l The ACOP will be replaced by a

Construction & Civil Engineering 7

HEALTH & SAFETY

Block it out

Sounds bad

shorter signposting version at the end of 2014. This will get rid of the current role of the CDM co-ordinator – a key project adviser for co-ordinating the arrangements for health and safety during the planning phase of larger and more complex projects. This will be replaced by another role to oversee domestic construction work as well as commercial. l The CDM regulations are to be amended in 2015 to bring them in line with European guidelines. Their aim is to improve health and safety in the industry, ensure better management of the risks on site and to provide a focus on effective planning.

Noise can have a devastating impact on health. In fact, the number of people suffering from noiseinduced hearing damage is on the rise. But noise is part and parcel of the construction site environment.

So what can be done about it?

Under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (Noise Regulations 2005) employers have a duty of care to protect the health and safety of staff from all noise-related risks at work. This includes providing hearing protectors and training, identifying hearing protection zones or areas where the use of hearing protection is compulsory, and carrying out regular health checks for hearing damage. But there is one more thing construction site managers could use – an acoustic barrier.

Stay on top of safety Robert Norman, who runs Robert Norman Construction, said having the right equipment was vitally important during any big build project. “With any project you should be carrying out a thorough risk assessment prior to starting work,” he said. “This will help you work out what protective equipment is needed on a job. Hard hats and steel-toe boots are perhaps the most common personal protective equipment worn along with gloves, goggles, or high-visibility clothing. We also ensure people working machinery have been instructed on the dangers of excess noise and vibration and that they take the necessary precautions.”

8 Construction & Civil Engineering

Echo Barrier technical director Peter Wilson

Noise reduction experts Echo Barrier, which designs and manufactures the Echo Barrier H series of noise reduction barriers for use on construction sites have seen a huge increase in business in the last couple of years. Technical director Peter Wilson said: “In the past couple of years we’ve seen a marked shift by site managers towards the problems of excessive noise and how to reduce it. Noise is being taken more seriously.”

That said, shocking statistics were revealed by the Health and Safety Executive in November 2014, which show that 40 per cent of sites inspected throughout their month long spot-check initiative failed due to a lack of protection against issues such as noise, vibration and dust. At nearly half of the 1748 sites visited by inspectors, one in five were so poor, formal enforcement action was required.

Peter said: “The harmful effects of noise and vibration on employees is becoming a higher priority when it comes to health and safety on a construction site.

“But we are working hard to educate the sector about the dangers of exposure to excessive noise and vibrations and constantly strive to improve our product offering so that there are effective solutions out there for the industry to use.” m For more information:

www.echobarrier.co.uk www.robertnormanltd.co.uk www.daylebayliss.co.uk

NEWS

Looking for shelter A new range of modular canopy systems has been launched by street furniture manufacturer, Townscape Products Limited.

The Matrix Modular Canopy system is an innovative flat packed shelter solution for schools, retail, transport, hospitals and commercial premises requiring all year weather protection. The shelter can be installed on all types of ground surfaces and provides a high quality, long lasting cover with quick and cost effective installation.

The system comes as an easy to build, flat packed system in a range of colours. The roofing selection includes a clear translucent option, perfect for letting in natural light. Instead of having to purchase a made to measure outdoor shelter the Matrix Modular Canopy is a solution, which is flexible and can be built to the specific dimensions you require.

Jonathan Goss, managing director of Townscape Products, said: “This is the quickest and easiest installation for a shelter we’ve brought to market, making it extremely cost effective. The canopy provides a durable shelter for any area needing protection from the weather. The roofing provides an area for safe shading with 98 per cent UV protection and also gives good insulation and shelter in the winter, so it’s perfect all year round.”

Designer appointed Network Rail has appointed Arup to take forward the design of a visitor centre and bridge walk for one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks, The Forth Bridge.

The six-figure contract, which will develop detailed designs for a North Queensferry based visitor centre and lift and a South Queensferry based facility for bridge walkers, will see buildready designs delivered by the middle of 2015 prior to a submission being made to local authorities for planning consideration.

Arup will be supported by two local firms WT Architecture, a South Queensferry based firm which developed early design concepts, and which will provide architectural advice and local knowledge, and the The Paul Hogarth Company, a landscaping firm also based in South Queensferry, which will help develop the hard and soft landscaping plans for both locations.

The contract will include designs for North Queensferry where proposals envisage visitors arriving via a landscaped shore-side walk to a unique visitor centre building created under the northern Fife Tower. The South Queensferry design brief envisages a visitor reception centre from which guided bridge walks for groups of up to 15 people begin. The walking route will pass along the south approach viaduct on a pre-existing walkway underneath the track, followed by a climb to the top of the southern Queensferry Tower using a walkway within the top cantilever.

Key for construction in 2015 Richard Threlfall, KPMG’s Head of Infrastructure, Building and Construction, highlights that in 2015 the construction industry will need to address the widening skills gap and take further steps to improve the image of the industry. He said: “We estimate that by 2016, the country will be investing £45bn per annum in infrastructure, and the Government’s construction pipeline now shows a total of £116bn of spend over nearly 2000 projects. But that does not mean the industry can relax.

“As early as April 2015, the delivery of the UK construction pipeline will hit a constraint imposed not by lack of political will or funding but for lack of a sufficiently large and trained workforce. We estimate that by that 150,000 more workers will be needed on site to deliver major projects in London and the South East. The industry is failing to hire sufficiently fast, and is failing to train in sufficient volume.

“The construction industry continues to struggle to attract both the calibre and the diversity of individuals it needs. Careers advice, from schools, parents and peers is too often a cocktail of prejudice and ignorance. But the industry bears much of the blame for failing to proactively sell itself, and project a modern, exciting, fulfilling image of what life in construction involves. Why does this matter? Very simply our country cannot afford to fail to bring more talent into our construction and engineering industries. In 2015, the industry needs to work hard to change this image.”

Construction & Civil Engineering 9

House buying

Almost 55,000 people have now bought homes via Help-to-Buy. But as Wes Simmons asks - is the controversial programme stimulating the house-building sector?

T Building

hope 10 Construction & Civil Engineering

he government’s flagship Help-to-Buy (HTB) scheme has become an established element of Britain’s property landscape, but it’s been remarkable just how perceptions about its likely impact have shifted over the months.

When the concept was unveiled in the March 2013 Budget, Chancellor George Osborne promised £12 billion in mortgage guarantees to revitalise the stagnant house-buying market. To a construction sector, which had been on its knees for five years, the scheme really was a relief. It was widely welcomed as an innovative if costly - method to get the house building industry moving. True, some critics suggested that the stimulus might create a housing bubble, but that was outweighed by the majority who welcomed HTB as a means to finally get young and first-time buyers on to the housing ladder.

When Osborne later extended the scheme, from 2016 to 2020, he predicted that 120,000 homes would be built between those years.

Understandably, the additional commitment was well received by the construction sector - especially the major housebuilders, given the

scale of their existing stock levels, which they’d been unable to shift during recession.

‘It’s a far more efficient way to promote house-building than government spending, as it leverages private money’, the Chancellor’s aides told the media.

This message chimed well with his target audience during the times of austerity.

By mid-2014, fears of a bubble were being downplayed and, more importantly, the PLC housebuilders began to report that HTB had become a major driving force in their long-awaited recovery. In July, for example, Bovis Homes said the scheme had underpinned the best first-half in its 129-year history, with sales up a whopping 54 per cent year-on-year. The average sale price was also up by an impressive 11 per cent, which, after several years of stagnation, reassured all concerned that margins were starting to recover and that ROI would surely follow.

Oddly, research by removals specialist Bishop’s Move did suggest huge regional variations in awareness of HTB. In the NorthEast, 25 per cent knew nothing of it. Many in the South-West (28 per cent) and Yorkshire (26 per cent) had heard of it, but didn’t know what it was. The geographical differences were puzzling, but noone focused on them too much because it seemed news of HTB’s perceived benefits would surely reach all parts of the country, as time passed.

There was an unsettling week for the Chancellor and his supporters when Parliament’s spending watchdog, the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), published a damning report saying HTB flouted Treasury guidelines, as optional ways of using the funds hadn’t been considered. “The government has committed to spending up to £10 billion on supporting this scheme, without establishing if it represents the most effective way

of using taxpayers’ money,” said PAC Chair, Margaret Hodge. The PAC itself was also clearly concerned about likely negative impacts of HTB on the wider economy; describing the scheme as ‘a heavy administrative burden’ which ‘has increased taxpayers’ exposure to risk’.

Housebuilders faced two major theoretical questions - how to effectively factor in regional variations to their business models and how to swiftly re-adjust if Ms Hodge’s Labour party came to power in 2015, abolishing HTB? Those concerns weren’t overplayed by the major builders or the wider construction industry - the reaction to the PAC comments soon ebbed.

The share price rises of Bovis Homes, Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon and Barratt Homes were also on a sufficiently large scale to impress analysts. Reports of widespread shortages of both bricks and skilled labour confirmed the view that house-building was on the way back, even though this meant challenges, in the short-term, to the construction industry and its supply chains.

At the start of November, the latest update from Housing Minister Brandon Lewis was also couched in reassuringly positive terms. He revealed that more than 39,000 new-built properties had been bought through the Equity Loan and NewBuy options. Another 15,000 homes had been acquired through the Mortgage Guarantee.

Impressively, the regional variations in HTB awareness appeared to have reduced, as 20 local authorities had achieved more than 300 sales. The country’s second highest number of equity loan sales had come from Leeds (559), rather than the more affluent Home Counties.

The debate about HTB’s impact will most certainly rumble on, although its critics are for the most part now silenced. Some observers might carp that house building would have recovered without government stimulus, as GDP began

‘‘

Some critics suggested that the stimulus might create a housing bubble, but that was outweighed by the majority who welcomed HTB

Wes Simmons

to tick up and confidence among both potential house-buyers and mortgage lenders did likewise.

However, the biggest challenge facing the construction industry in the coming months will now be political, rather than strategic.

Traditionally, the PLC housebuilders have been very close to the Conservative Party and Osborne is already committed to taking HTB through the life of the next parliament. Should Labour return to power though, it’s going to take a major lobbying effort by the Big Four and their supporters in the construction sector to persuade Ms Hodge and her allies that the scheme should be retained, despite its multi-billion cost. m

Wes Simmons is MD of Eque2. As a Microsoft Gold Partner and Sage’s preferred Business Partner for contracting software, Eque2 provides a range of innovative software to over 800 small to very large businesses financial and contract management; estimating, cost planning and postcontract; house building; document management and distribution; and SharePoint tools.

For further information, visit:

www.eque2.co.uk.

Construction & Civil Engineering 11

EQUIPMENT

Engineering

N

feat

ewport based Asset International has delivered the largest Weholite Modular tank ever built to Anglian Water’s Cambridge Water Recycling Centre, to form part of the inter-process pumping for the plant’s ongoing £21 million upgrade.

Ahead of the initiation of the AMP6 period in April 2015, Anglian Water is investing £21 million to increase the treatment capacity of the sewage treatment works in Cambridge. Asset International was commissioned by Anglian Water’s @one Alliance to deliver a Weholite Modular tank for the project, which would be utilised as a pumping chamber, in order to transfer sewage

12 Construction & Civil Engineering

A large Weholite modular tank has been built as part of Cambridge sewage treatment upgrades

to the new treatment units.

The dimensions required on site meant that the size of the Weholite Modular tank was larger than anything that had been built before at the South Wales factory.

At 15 metres long, 4.5 metres wide and five metres high, the tank has a capacity of approximately 340m3, which translates to 340,000 litres of sewage. Once the Weholite Modular tank left South Wales it was installed on site in Cambridge by the following morning, an impressive feat of engineering that would have seen a similar project undertaken in concrete taking up to 13 weeks to install.

Speaking about the project, Shaun Kalies, sales director at

Asset, commented: “Due to its sheer size a lot of complex design work went into the development of this Weholite Modular tank. We’re really proud of the finished result, which is a testament to the innovative practices we employ in every project that we undertake.”

Weholite Modular is a new product from Asset International, which is more commonly associated with its large diameter plastic pipes.

Weholite Modular can be used to construct CSO control chambers, pumping stations, flow control chambers, ventilation chambers, detention tanks and other strategic water management products. m For more information visit:

www.weholite.co.uk.

NEWS

Quick work BAM Construction completed a £10 million Middlesex school building project within a calendar year after teamwork and innovative thinking helped shave six weeks off the project. BAM handed over Heathrow UTC on 26th of November, some six weeks before its contracted completion date of 15 January 2015.

Even with time allowed for postconstruction personalisation works in early December, the contractor was off site before Christmas – having started in the first week of 2014. BAM also built a temporary school nearby with the same site team during that period.

“This is an incredible achievement, and comes as a result of hard work from our great team of young site managers lead by Lee Macdonald and Andrew Sherwin,” said project manager Brian Kelly. “There has been a great spirit of collaboration on this project, with everyone pulling together to find ways of getting the job done quicker.”

All subcontractors have finished

Changing attitudes

earlier than expected, with many works able to overlap as the team found ways to shorten the programme, using the company’s emphasis on ‘lean construction techniques’.

A local feel to the project also helped, according to Kelly, with 30 per cent of staff coming from the borough along with two major subcontractors, Toureen Mangan and Rochfords. “We benefitted from having local staff who could walk or get the bus to work, and who bought into the project as it was happening in their neighbourhood,” said Brian.

Breaking ground Virgin Hotels and owner/developer Lam Group, have revealed building designs for their first project together in New York City. Located on the southeast corner of 30th Street and Broadway in the NoMad neighborhood, Virgin Hotels New York is expected to open in 2017.

VOA Architecture has been enlisted as the architect and interior designer, to oversee the development of the new structure with the Virgin Hotels design team, which includes a block long high-end retail space, 475 guest rooms, multiple concept suites, food and beverage outlets, rooftop bar plus an outdoor pool and spa. The property is expected to break ground in early 2015.

Virgin Hotels CEO, Raul Leal, said: “We are ecstatic to partner with Lam Group and VOA to bring New Yorkers a dynamic new hotel. The property will be a ground-up development designed to support business and leisure traveller’s needs and wants, while providing an active spot for locals.”

VOA Architecture NY managing principal, Len Cerame added: “The 38-story hotel is a unique site and design opportunity for VOA, with a massing that expresses the hotel’s internal functions including active rooftops as well as a staggered cantilevered facade that enhances room views on all four sides. Virgin Hotels New York’s distinctive look is sure to play a key role in the neighborhood’s transformation process.”

Sixty eight per cent of construction professionals think not enough is being done to reduce carbon in the industry, says a new report from the Construction Industry Council.

This finding comes as no surprise to David Ball, founder and chairman of David Ball Group PLC. David comments: “The recent EU climate change package gives us 15 years to right the wrongs of decades of damage and destruction and cut our greenhouse gas emissions by 40 per cent by 2030. The construction industry has already taken steps to achieve this, with green innovations developing throughout the industry. Both the cement and concrete industries are at the forefront of this drive to a more sustainable legacy from the built environment.

“Materials are not often addressed as a potential area to reduce greenhouse gases, as there is an assumption that there are no alternatives.

However that is simply not true.

Through many years of intensive research and development we have invented a zero carbon concrete – Cemfree – which provides up to a 95 per cent reduction in CO2 compared with the industry standard.”

Cemfree is the embodiment of the determination of the global cement and concrete industry to reduce its environmental impact.

“Utilising well known byproducts of other industries, this disruptive new product can reduce the UK’s operational CO2 emissions by over 2,100,000 tonnes every year, just from existing raw material capacity alone, without any forward investment or expansion of resources.”

Construction & Civil Engineering 13

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Cloudsource How cloud computing is transforming the construction sector. By Joseph Blass

G

iving skilled construction site workers a reliable and secure way to access their desktop computer remotely is a potential game-changer for an industry under constant pressure to be faster, more competitive and more efficient.

The construction sector relies on technology to share information between the dozens of experts who work together to ensure a building project is successfully completed on time and on budget. From the architect and engineer’s computeraided designs to the software that ensures materials are ready and staff are in place, every aspect of a modern

14 Construction & Civil Engineering

Joseph Blass

project depends on technology linking staff in different businesses and locations.

All construction companies share the ingredients that make them suitable for a hosted desktop solution. Firstly, by definition, construction companies have multiple offices, many of them located on temporary building sites.

Cloud computing allows disparate offices to work harmoniously. Secondly, some of these locations can be dusty and have people walking in and out; again, cloud computing reduces the dependence on the local machine which if ruined or stolen doesn’t need to contain data. With a Hosted Desktop the local computer is just an access point. Moreover, the computer

can be used to ‘hot desk’ and allow multiple employees to use the same device on different days, so the employees do not need to carry around a laptop.

Convenient For all these reasons many construction companies are looking to the Cloud for convenient, costeffective and hassle-free ways to

connect their sites with their wider workforce, clients and suppliers.

Using cloud-based services, an engineer visiting a site can access all the software and tools available on his or her desktop back in the office.

Working with a familiar desktop layout is a more efficient, productive way to operate. It means staff don’t need extra training to get to grips with different IT tools. They can access their desktop anywhere using a portable device and need only a 3G signal to get started. That eliminates the need to install cable-based telecoms on a building site – an option that is expensive and difficult, especially with remote locations.

While many employees can already retrieve work emails when they’re out of the office, they often can’t access all their other documents or programmes. Skilled construction

workers regularly need to access more complicated applications, particularly at a time when the industry is embracing the digital age. They can’t afford to waste time contacting the head office or struggling to open files when they need information about staffing issues, materials or computer designs.

No cabling Having a secure, reliable connection to a familiar looking desktop removes one of the great headaches of working remotely, especially in a challenging environment like a building site. It treats fast, safe and robust access to the network like any other utility, whether it’s electricity or water. It allows site-based staff, who work to tight deadlines and budgetary pressures, to connect with colleagues around the world.

Site managers don’t have to worry about installing expensive computer servers or cabling. Relying on the cloud also reduces the need for IT technicians and capital expenditure on servers and software. Maintenance work is transferred to the cloud

‘‘

Many construction companies are looking to the Cloud for convenient, cost-effective and hassle-free ways to connect their sites with their wider workforce, clients and suppliers

Scalable One of the biggest benefits of the cloud for construction companies is its scalability. Rather than invest in expensive computer equipment, a firm only has to pay for the IT services it needs. When their requirements grow, the cloud is ready to grow with them. With the rise of digital design and construction, construction companies require more and more computing power provided by bigger and faster servers.

The cloud can meet that demand.

This more flexible way of working is ideally suited to a sector that is highly flexible and is used to working with contractors and temporary staff.

Digital design

supplier. Using the cloud’s processing power also cuts down on energy consumption and helps make a project more environmentally friendly.

Security The rise of connected building sites inevitably raises questions about security. Confidential details of designs, contracts or budgets must be kept secure. Having a central repository for sensitive documents in the secure cloud is a sensible precaution. It’s also a good solution if different employees need to view the same large document or file that is too big to email. The more risky alternative might be leaving computers in a less-than-secure temporary building on-site. That’s a bad idea in a complex environment that is constantly evolving.

Perhaps the most important IT theme in construction is also the least well known among the wider public. Described by many as the construction industry’s ‘digital revolution’, the adoption of an emerging system called Building Information Modelling (BIM) is transforming the sector. It uses data-rich, digital 3D models to allow people to share information about buildings and understand how they will function across their lifespan. The government has identified BIM as a crucial step forward that will lead to better design, more efficient buildings and a new era of collaboration in construction. With their access to vast computing power, cloud services will play a central role in the spread of BIM. The successful building sites of the future will be powered by cloud computing and hosted desktops that give employees a cost effective and convenient competitive edge. m

Joseph Blass is CEO of WorkPlaceLive. WorkPlaceLive was established nearly 20 years ago to provide traditional IT support to local businesses and charities. Today, the company is a dynamic, fast-growing cloud-computing provider – and it was one of the first UK organisations to pioneer hosted desktop services. WorkPlaceLive specialises in providing enterprise level IT, and offers responsive and friendly support from a highly experienced team as well as a range of consultancy solutions.

For further information, visit: www.workplacelive.com.

Construction & Civil Engineering 15

CASE STUDY

The triumphof

3D technology The redevelopment of King’s Cross station has been a stunning achievement of architecture and engineering. Cliff Green explains how 3D modelling enabled the original Grade 1 listed building to be revealed in all its glory and melded with state-of-the-art design

16 Construction & Civil Engineering

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uilt in 1852, King’s Cross railway station is one of the main transportation hubs in London. As with the rest of the United Kingdom’s rail network infrastructure, the station has struggled in recent years to manage not only increasing ridership but also providing the space and amenities commuters expect.

The £547 million redevelopment of King’s Cross station is at the heart of one of the largest regeneration undertakings in Europe, with 67 acres of brownfield land being redeveloped to create eight million square feet of offices, retail space,

and housing. This complex urban regeneration project faced many technical challenges, including the potential impact on the mainline station, a number of underground transport connections, and the nearby St Pancras International railway station. The redevelopment also had to maintain the historic, Grade 1 listed building, which required continual verification from English Heritage and other statutory bodies.

John McAslan + Partners project technology manager Cliff Green explained: “King’s Cross station is not just a building; it is a major transportation node in a highly sensitive part of the city. The way

The King’s Cross station makeover

the station connects with the city and supports the urban regeneration project is hugely complex.”

For a project of this size and complexity, architects John McAslan + Partners needed equally sophisticated models and modelling tools. Bentley’s MicroStation’s federated model structure allowed the large design team to easily and rapidly share common files between multiple disciplines. Using Bentley tools they were able to merge and organise numerous elements of the project including heritage and conservation work on current structures, as well as existing services and transportation infrastructure.

The King’s Cross redevelopment project is operated by Network Rail and sponsored by the Department for Transport. The project required a new design and construction, reusing existing structures, and restoring historic building elements, including the train shed and the station’s previously obscured historic façade.

Given the number of organisations involved in this complex project, from design through fabrication and construction, it was essential to enable efficient collaboration and information sharing. MicroStation’s federated model structure ensured everyone on this large design team had access to high-quality, consistent, validated data. The collaborative process enabled the project team to avoid disruption to London Underground passengers and allowed Network Rail to meet its pledge to Transport for London that no mainline train service would be cancelled due to the redevelopment.

“The King’s Cross redevelopment has been a key project in John McAslan + Partner’s BIM evolution,” Green said. “With so much information to share with so many

different parties, the speed and effectiveness of information capture and collaboration was a key aspect of this project.”

3D Modelling enables successful co-ordination The western concourse semi-circle diagrid roof, which rises 20m, and spans 150m, involved extreme engineering and co-ordination challenges. The new concourse, which covers 7500sq m, is the largest single-span structure in Western Europe, and could only accommodate supports at a limited number of points due to various subway and service tunnels. The roof also had to be constructed in a way that did not touch the historical structures. Accurate 3D modelling of the roof and surrounding structures was vital to successful coordination between an international team of architects, structural designers, and fabricators.

Design verification speeds process Because the station is an important historical structure, one of the key challenges for this project was the need for on-going design verification during the extended heritage and conservation negotiations. High-

Construction & Civil Engineering 17

CASE STUDY

quality, accurate 3D models were vital to the restoration of the historic south facade, and the refurbishment of the vaulted main train shed (including incorporation of photo-voltaic arrays).

Using detailed survey data along with MicroStation’s power to handle complex infrastructure project data, the team was able to weave historical structures into a modern project.

“We were able to speed up the design process and could accurately predict the outcome of works to the existing historical fabric. It allowed savings during the construction phase through the reduction of errors in documentation, and also at scheme level by allowing rapid communication of the design to the client, consultative organisations and to project collaborators,” Green explained.

The firm also used MicroStation to verify design concepts, assessing aspects such as the way new buildings would work with the existing site and how the building’s flow would work for passengers, including everything from concourse layout to signage. In addition, the concourse is now clad with 5.2 million tiny ceramic tiles that had to be laid over a two-way curve with construction joints. MicroStation was used to model each and every tile to assess how they could be best installed – a process that simply could not have been carried out manually.

18 Construction & Civil Engineering

Supportive technology enables ambitious development As the project progressed, the company extended its use of Bentley software from 2D and 3D, to building information modelling (BIM) and GenerativeComponents, without the need to step outside the MicroStation interface. “This is

a really smart way to work,” noted Green. “We can work in large teams and use 2D, 3D, and BIM to suit the state of the project, the type of project, and the skills of our team.

The flexibility of MicroStation offers a real advantage and allows us to work to the best of our ability.”

The station remodel has enhanced passenger amenities, rationalised operational activities, and significantly increased retail space. In addition, John McAslan + Partners played a key role in the wider transformation of the King’s Cross area. This included improved infrastructure, social, and commercial changes that now connect the station with the substantial King’s Cross Central scheme to the north, as well as improved interchange links with the London Underground, St. Pancras station, Thameslink services, taxis, and buses. m

Cliff Green is project technology manager at John McAslan + Partners.

For further information visit

www.mcaslan.co.uk or www.bentley.com

NEWS

Drain brains Lanes Group has been praised for its ‘superb’ contribution to major road improvement works on the campus of the University of Warwick. The company’s engineers carried out a series of CCTV drainage surveys and cleaned highway drains for main contractor Costain, as part of scheme to upgrade the main public access route into the university.

The road improvements, planned with Coventry City Council, are due to be completed in time for a series of major events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the University in spring 2015.

Costain works manager Spencer Brindley said: “The Lanes team did a superb job for us on the project.

New guide

We needed to identify the current drainage system on site, so we could connect it to the new works.

“They did very well to identify the existing drainage assets, and give us high quality survey reports, which have helped us plan the connections in an effective and timely manner.”

Radical refurb Law firm Walker Morris LLP recently invested in a radical redesign of its office on King Street, Leeds. The refurbishment, which is the largest in the city for the last five years, was undertaken by leading office fit out specialists Bluu and has seen a transformation of all areas of the firm’s Kings Court premises including major renovation works to the ground floor reception areas and conference suites.

The design was the vision of Harrogate-based creative design consultancy SoVibrant, who specialise in designing projects, which create impact. Fox Lloyd Jones acted as project manager on the scheme.

Ian Gilbert, managing partner at Walker Morris explains: “Having a single-site strategy from which we service our national and international clients is increasingly winning favour with our clients because of the close teamwork it engenders which allows us to offer the highest calibre advice from our specialist teams at best value.

This strategy demands that we support our people and our clients with offices which not only support the collaborative way in which we work but are also reflect our status and brand as a leading law firm.

“The refurbishment, which is part of a multi-million pound investment in our offices and IT systems, reflects our desire to provide an environment and support infrastructure which allow us to provide excellent client service and which is flexible enough to meet our needs today and in the long-term. The investment illustrates our confidence in the future for both Walker Morris and for the region.”

Companies seeking a temporary space solution are being reminded of the need to plan ahead. Securing local authority approval for all types of development can be a complex and time-consuming procedure.

But temporary building experts Spaciotempo have produced a guide, which aims to demystify the planning application process.

The document, entitled ‘Planning Ahead To Boost Your Business’ is available for free download at http:// www.spaciotempo.co.uk/ resources/white-papers It reveals what steps are involved and covers issues such as timescales, cost and rules on Permitted Development. The guide also includes details on how the Staffordshire-based company can support customers by taking the lead role.

Going digital Terex Construction has launched a new distributor support application and an enhanced terex.com/ construction website. Both initiatives are part of a strategic focus on digital marketing technologies to improve the customer experience by providing easier access to information.

The newly launched Terex Construction app puts all of the content that distributors need to support their customers at their fingertips.“We took a good look at the tools available to our sales teams and saw a tremendous opportunity to utilise tablets for content management and delivery,” says Neal Nowick, general manager at Terex Coventry. “We have taken all of the content these sales teams need and packaged it into one device that’s easy to carry and easy to use.

Construction & Civil Engineering 19

SOCIAL HOUSING

Building a

solution

Liz Jenkins looks at some of the funding and investment decisions required for the delivery of affordable housing

20 Construction & Civil Engineering

T

he UK is currently experiencing huge population growth: the birth rate is up, there is net migration from overseas, and the population is growing older, as people live longer. The growing population is felt particularly keenly in London and the Southeast, which accounts for over 50 per cent of the UK’s population growth, with London absorbing about half of that number. As the population growth far outstrips the pace at which new homes are being built, the UK is facing a staggering affordable housing shortage that is only going to intensify.

It is clear that as the economy and population continue to grow,

a combination of solutions is required to significantly improve the quantity of housing that is currently being built; in particular housing that is affordable and suitable for the elderly and those with social needs. Some of these solutions are practical and include: accessing more available land, whether publicly or privately owned; encouraging the development of brownfield sites; embracing higher density building in our cities; investing in technology and alternative methods of construction that will deliver faster and cheaper homes. Other solutions involve different financial models and the need to reintroduce PFI or alternative public private partnerships.

Finance is a factor Ultimately, the demand for housing can only be met with both government funding and private investment. The Treasury has committed £3.3 billion for 165,000 new homes across England over the next three years, and another £3.7 billion through the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme. The Greater London Authority (GLA) announced there would be £1.25 billion to support the delivery of 42,000 affordable homes between 2015-18, and proposed the creation of a London Housing Bank, with £200 million earmarked for a project to speed up building on large sites.

A limiting factor in local development is finance available to local authorities. With increasing devolution to Scotland, there is growing support for London and other cities to have greater financial autonomy - including local control of Stamp Duty Land Tax, a degree of tax devolution, and local tax assignment – as greater fiscal independence would allow Local Authorities and the cities more flexibility in their approach to creating housing. Local Authorities and NHS Trusts are acutely aware of the need for providing suitable supported housing for the elderly and those with social needs in their area and, using the localism agenda, they are best placed to address this.

In order to finance suitable affordable housing the public sector can help stimulate capital investment by exploiting the inherent value of their asset base. One method of raising debt finance to fund infrastructure has been through using joint venture models or Local Asset Backed Vehicles (LABV), whereby the public sector body sets up a limited liability company along with their private investor, transferring its assets into the joint venture vehicle, whilst the private investor puts up the capital to cover the regeneration costs.

Tax Increment Funding (TIF) is another investment model gaining popularity. It works on the basis

‘‘

The UK is facing a staggering affordable housing shortage that is only going to intensify

that local investment will increase the future tax base, and credit is leveraged against projected revenue.

The Local Government Association (LGA) believes it ‘offers considerable scope for generating growth that would not otherwise happen’, where high upfront costs would prevent infrastructure development.

PFI is successful and proven However, TIF’s are used to fund infrastructure from which local businesses can benefit – so this is not a model for developing affordable housing. Equally LABV’s or alternative joint venture models rely on the underlying land having a certain value and often require cross subsidy from housing sales to underpin their success. Neither is really suitable for large-scale affordable housing requirements in what might be difficult locations or require significant amounts of capital/investment. In this respect, although PFI has fallen out of favour since the financial crisis, it still remains a successful and proven method of procurement of affordable housing.

Manchester, Oldham, Leeds, Salfords, Lambeth and others have all achieved large-scale regeneration through using PFI credits to underpin the successful delivery of affordable housing in areas that desperately needed this. Prior to the comprehensive spending review in October 2010, there were £1.6 billion of PFI credits available for social housing schemes, which were massively oversubscribed by Local Authorities desperately in need of this money to deliver affordable housing or regenerate large estates in their area.

Currently there are no PFI housing schemes. Those that have closed in the last couple of years have been the few that were allowed to

Liz Jenkins

continue post the comprehensive spending review. These included non-HRA Housing schemes such as those in Kent and Stoke, which provided supported social housing for vulnerable people. The Kent Housing scheme established 240 new units providing housing for older people, people with mental health needs and vulnerable/homeless people across five districts in Kent.

It was a collaboration between the County Council, responsible for Adult and Social Care Services, and the district councils, responsible for housing; as it enabled small authorities access to PFI procurement, which independently, they would have been unable to access. Without PFI credits or an alternative public-private partnership model, it is unlikely these schemes could have been delivered.

PF2 may be the answer With the proportion of the population living longer increasing, the need for affordable sheltered housing for older citizens is equally going to increase dramatically. The Government has invested time and effort in analysing the issues with PFI and providing an alternative PF2 model - so why not use PF2 as part of the solution to delivering more affordable housing?

Solving the affordable housing crisis for the elderly and vulnerable requires a mixture of approaches and the ability for the public and private sector to work together to finance and deliver significantly higher levels of suitable housing. The PFI/PPP model has been successfully used and may still be the best answer to avoid or mitigate this growing crisis. m

Liz Jenkins is partner at law firm Clyde & Co, a global law firm with a pioneering heritage and a resolute focus on its core sectors of insurance, aviation, energy, infrastructure, natural resources, marine and trade. With over 1500 lawyers operating from 39 offices and associated offices in six continents, the firm advises on a wide range of contentious and transactional matters. For further information visit: www.clydeco.com.

Construction & Civil Engineering 21

PROFILE: HTC PLANT

Reaching new

heights Offering tower crane and hoist packages that are tailored to customers needs, HTC Plant Ltd provides manpower and equipment with a real head for heights

22 Construction & Civil Engineering

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acked by its owners Harrington Group, HTC was formed from the acquisition of the tower crane division of Hewden Stuart PLC in 2002. With a fleet of 100 or so assets and a presence in the industry of around 40 years, a strong platform existed to grow the company to a standing where today the fleet consists of over 230 cranes, working all over the UK. In 2007 it acquired the hoist division of Hewden, further expanding the capabilities of the business with additional workforce, equipment and depot locations.

Additionally, it operates two mobile crane units, predominantly for its own operations, although flexibility is a key strength of the company.

HTC is the agent for the German manufactured Wolff cranes, a highly regarded top end product, recognised as worth the additional expense it attracts. “We offer a very good brand that benefits from a high free-standing height. One of the major advantages is that it does not require tying in to potentially weak structures. It is an excellent example of German engineering, both high in quality and reliability.

The equipment is robust, strong and

lasts a long time,” says David Holder, managing director.

Highlighting that confidence in the equipment, HTC is looking to procure several new cranes with a much taller reach, as David points out: “The new units will take us up to 230 metres. We have got some high profile jobs coming up and there are many more available to win.

Securing such contracts will require a massive investment in tower sections to reach new heights.”

The company is heavily involved in projects in the UK market, but through close connections with projects that its parent company fronts, it is active in the Middle East region, working from a facility in Dubai where since 2009 it has operated ten cranes and up to six hoists.

Discussing the conditions within the UK market over the past year, David explains that in his opinion the market has dramatically lifted, with several new orders within the UK, adding: “As the market improves, the financial conditions are starting to catch, and we have quoted some quite healthy rates for 2015. At the moment we are still continuing to fill in on work, which was won cheaply back in 2012/2013, but as that completes over the coming months we will be able to move onto something with a more substantial and robust rate, enabling us to invest in more stronger, more capable equipment, upping our age profile a little bit. Buoyancy is present across quite a few sectors, including residential, high rise, commercial office space, and some infrastructure projects.”

With much of the recent vertical expansion in the northern territories complete, the bulk of HTC’s focus is being channelled to within the M25. However, in the past its portfolio of work has consisted of projects within the energy sector, and building on that experience the business remains hopeful that it will achieve growth in that sector too. “We are trying to expand into the energy sector, which we see as

a market offering a good quality of work at attractive rates and although we already work for and have contact with petrochemical companies both on and offshore, we do not do as much as we would like, but our equipment is well suited to a number of activities essential to operations,” explains David.

One of HTC’s units has a unique system incorporated for repairing flare stacks, which has in the past proved a great success, with clients showing interest for future activities.

The current portfolio of projects includes many high profile projects such as those at AWE Aldermaston where over the past four years the company has undertaken a number of activities. Beyond that, projects such as Westfield shopping centre in Sheperds Bush, residential projects in Stratford Village in the

international quarter, refurbishment works at London Bridge Station, and a six crane project in Nova Victoria have all bolstered the expertise of the business.

Innovation plays a key role in the company’s progression and is an ongoing activity. Working closely with its manufacturer, HTC ensures new models are designed to serve the needs of its customers, whilst ensuring lower power requirements, greater capacity and flexibility.

Work within the high rise block is one thing that HTC pays particular attention to, and offering free standing solutions enables clients to build structures without intrusive tie ins so that they can waterproof the building much more quickly.

Through innovation HTC is also able to promote safety, developing a climbing platform for when erection

Construction & Civil Engineering 23

PROFILE: HTC PLANT

staff are attaching tie collars to give a safe place of work and reduce the risk of items falling.

“Our greatest strength is the reliability of our product, but this is heavily backed up by our expertise.

We have got long standing members of staff who have been with us for many years, gaining a vast amount of experience in complicated projects that entail activities such as high-rise climbing and tying. We are able to supply operators, supervisors, signallers and appointed persons, providing a whole lifting package should a customer want it.” Focused on safety, the business recently obtained 18001 accreditation, complementing the pride it takes in using its achievements in best practice to assist in steering the safety of the tower crane industry.

HTC Plant is a CITB registered training centre and delivers tailored training packages to all areas of the industry. As well as training facilities in Sheffield it has a facility in Cheshire where it provides CPCS tower crane operators, slinger signalers and appointed persons training, which will allow the company to further control the quality of training delivered to potential candidates wishing to enter the company or industry.

“We are looking at expanding that aspect, and we will drive this through our accredited test centres and providing opportunity to train operators on site.

Apprenticeships “Each year we run an apprenticeship scheme, employing four novices, where following training they are paired up with regular operators to gain experience and ultimately go out into the field on their own. So far this has proved a great success and through opening it to friends and family of existing employees we have generated a wealth of loyalty within the business. In the coming years that will be further expanded, as well as continuing

26 Construction & Civil Engineering

to offer internal and external courses for numerous signalling and marshalling qualifications,” says David.

Strategy is a card David regularly plays in ensuring positive development of the business, and following expansion over the last decade the goal of establishing an optimum level in terms of fleet size has been reached. Drawing to a conclusion, David highlights the steps ahead: “Adaption of the fleet will be an ongoing method that guarantees we continue to increase our capabilities, and as new equipment is purchased, through our established contact list we will sell the older items, ensuring that our operational capabilities are not affected. Ultimately we are driven to succeed within the tower cranes market and our goal is to select the best products for our customers and do the best job possible. The focus for HTC has always been the level of service we provide, in preplanning, erection and dismantle, and that remains true.” m

Construction & Civil Engineering 25

PROFILE: BRIGGS & FORRESTER

resorts-world-birmingham

TRILUX

Prestigious

B

riggs & Forrester has been a leading player in the building services industry for more than 65 years, priding itself on quality and service and working towards a better-built environment.

The business, which is a privately owned company with an annual turnover in excess of £150 million, has built a reputation as a market leader providing full building services including design, installation, energy consultancy and maintenance services for the construction industry.

It has a long history of quality, fostered through close relationships with its clients, representing a heritage that remains a cornerstone of the company’s values. Today the company maintains these high standards though delivering an exceptional quality, results orientated approach that is combined with a growing emphasis on energy efficiency, energy conservation and associated environmental issues.

Briggs & Forrester represents a group of companies capable of offering a broad and varied suite of highly specialised skills including engineering, design, installation and maintenance. The individual divisions

26 Construction & Civil Engineering

projects

Briggs & Forrester offers a broad range of highly specialised skills making it the market-leading provider of building services in the UK Strada SE1

operating within this group structure Briggs & Forrester Engineering Services, Briggs & Forrester (Special Projects), Combined Energy Solutions, Briggs & Forrester (MEP), and Low Energy Consultancy

TRILUX is one of the UK’s leading providers of energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions. The company, which is headquartered in Germany, offers a wide product portfolio, always perfectly matched to customer requirements and specific applications. But it’s not all about product.

TRILUX provides its customers with worldclass project support and lighting expertise, throughout the project lifecycle.

“TRILUX have worked closely with Briggs & Forrester for over ten years, on numerous projects across commercial, healthcare and education sectors,” says Darrell West, TRILUX regional sales director. “The relationship is built on TRILUX’s ability to deliver highly efficient luminaires from a wide product range, that includes solutions for all budgets and applications.”

Pictured opposite is the Arimo Slim LED product family, which delivers up to 110 lm/ Ws and is well suited to office applications.

Featuring the latest in LED technology, the luminaires deliver homogenous, wide area light distribution, that is pleasant and glare free with UGR 19.

– bring a combination of skills, experience and knowledge that enables them to provide solutions that can be fully integrated for the most demanding and complex mechanical, electrical and public health engineering installations across most industry sectors.

Because of its diverse range of activities Briggs & Forrester is capable of completing projects in many areas such as project energy feasibility, compliance, design, off site manufacture, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and public health engineering services.

Briggs & Forrester covers virtually all sectors of the UK construction industry, from commercial developments, luxury residential properties, hotels, hi-tech labs, engine production and testing facilities, to retail and leisure developments,

Construction & Civil Engineering 47

PROFILE: BRIGGS & FORRESTER

educational establishments, student accommodation, research facilities and healthcare.

In December 2014 the company was appointed by Berkeley Homes to design, supply, install and commission the mechanical, electrical and public health services infrastructure for its Abell and Cleland development in Westminster, London. The development, which will include three levels of basement car parking, an energy centre with service links between the buildings,

Paddington Basin

Fläkt Woods Fläkt Woods Limited is a leading global supplier of air comfort and fire safety solutions. Fläkt Woods has a number of ‘best in class’ products that lead the way in indoor air quality and life safety systems.

Fläkt Woods is proud to work with Briggs and Forrester and is a valued customer. By working together it enables Fläkt Woods to bring air to life.

28 Construction & Civil Engineering

luxury health suite and concierge, will serve a number of high end and luxury apartments. In the residential sector Briggs & Forrester’s specialist residential division, Briggs

& Forrester (MEP) has considerable experience in these types of projects and understands that each project is unique, working with the individual client in order to take their visions and aspirations from a concept through to the final design. Other significant residential projects for the company include West End Quay, Paddington Basin, London, Strata SE1, Southwark, London, No 1 Hyde Park, St Georges Tower, New Providence Wharf, Brentford, and The Hub, Milton Keynes.

Briggs & Forrester has the ability to provide in-depth project management and site supervision expertise. It employs highly skilled installation engineers and designers that utilise the latest and most upto-date CAD technology.

An effective and strong supply chain is a key aspect of Briggs

& Forrester’s success, and in November 2014 the company hosted its 9th annual supply chain event at the Birmingham Council Offices. The company recognises the importance of all the members of its supply chain, who were invited to attend the event to understand how the company intends to develop in the future and further strengthen its group structure. At the event Briggs & Forrester announced the winners of its prestigious supply chain awards, which were judged on levels of service, competitiveness and health and safety adherence. Wilo UK was awarded Best Supplier, Fire Protection Ltd was recognised as Best Sub-Contractor and Argus Fire Protection Ltd won the Best Health and Safety Record.

Due to the knowledge and expertise within the business Briggs & Forrester is also able to offer clients a dedicated energy consulting service whereby the business is able to manage energy appraisals, strategies, feasibility studies, technology studies, energy audits and building regulations compliance. This, alongside the other services provided by Briggs & Forrester is enabled by the company’s dedication to working closely with its clients through a customer-focused strategy that is independently monitored for quality, service and competitiveness.

Recognising the growing emphasis on building Booth Lane College, Northampton

environmentally friendly, energy efficient projects Briggs & Forrester takes its environmental responsibility very seriously. The company is fully aware of the impact and implications of its construction activities and aims to minimise its environmental impact through a number of key strategies, such as minimising waste by ensuring its operations are as efficient as possible, actively promoting recycling, sourcing and promoting a product range that minimises environmental impact for production and distribution, and by meeting and exceeding the relevant legislation that applies to its business activities. The business also encompasses the BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) philosophy.

In order to maintain its leading position in the sector Briggs & Forrester has embarked on significant investment into the

business in order to achieve expansion over the coming years.

During 2013 for example, the company invested into new regions with offices opening in Birmingham, Liverpool and Warrington by Briggs & Forrester Engineering Services, which is the largest division within the group. This proved to be a well planned move as the new regions secured a number of important contracts for the organisation, totalling more than £45 million from clients including NEC Resort World, Liverpool Exhibition Centre and Hotel, Bath Spa Student Accommodation and the Soapworks development at Salford Quays.

Another prestigious project delivered by Briggs & Forrester Engineering Services during 2014 was for Jaguar Land Rover in Castle Bromwich. The company was appointed by Interserve to design, install and commission the mechanical, electrical and public health services infrastructure for a new Body in White production facility. The scheme was for a period of seven months and had a value of £10 million.

With the company looking to firmly continue its investment in organic growth over the coming years business will undoubtedly remain strong for Briggs & Forrester. Future investment to expand in Yorkshire is key with a number of schemes at varying stages of the tender process.

Its dedication to working closely with its customers ensures complete satisfaction throughout its activities and brings repeat business from many clients, while the tradition and heritage that lies behind the Briggs & Forrester name will see it retain its market leading position for the foreseeable future. m

BRIGGS & FORRESTER www.briggsandforrester.co.uk Services: Building services Construction & Civil Engineering 29

PROFILE: forbo eurocol

Sealdeal the

Forbo Eurocol, based in the Netherlands, is a leading manufacturer and supplier of technical products for renovation and new construction projects

30 Construction & Civil Engineering

S

pecialising in tile and floor covering adhesives, grout materials and leveling compounds with all ancillary products, the business manufactures a complete range of adhesives for the installation of floor and wall coverings. Since its establishment in 1972, Forbo Eurocol BV has been part of the Forbo Group, which through an international network of 24 production and distribution sites as well as six fabrication centres and 40 sales organisations in a total of 36 countries worldwide provides a

powerful backing for the business.

Forbo is headquartered in Baar in the canton of Zug, Switzerland, and is quoted on the SIX Swiss Stock Exchange. “As part of the group we have developed close relationships with sister companies, particularly Forbo Flooring Systems, with whom we work closely in the UK market.

“Being part of a strong and healthy group brings the benefit that we are well known, not just in the UK, but also in Europe with a product range that offers a solution for every floor. It provides opportunity to invest in new products and innovations,” says

with more being introduced in the opening months of 2015. Such factors are a daily focus for our business, and product development is an ongoing task. Through our R&D department we are driving forward the quality and capabilities of our portfolio.

“Our team is skilled in inventing and innovating all kinds of products for sub flooring, not only for the floor finish. It is through seeing the overall picture that we are able to achieve better results. One focus at the moment is in products that hold a lower water factor, ultimately requiring significantly less water to make the product useable.”

Peaks & troughs of professional flooring adhesives for the installation of a wide variety of floor coverings, such as linoleum, PVC, cushion vinyl, rubber, carpet, needlefelt and carpet tiles.

As concern for the environment deepens within industry, every business works towards integrating solutions that adhere to such concerns. For Forbo, this is very much an aspect of its operation, as Rob points out: “We are very busy, developing environmentally friendly solutions and recycled products,

As business grows comfortably, memories of the collapse of the construction industry remain in thought, but maintaining a positive mentality the team continues to concentrate on the market, ensuring that its service is of greater appeal than its competitors, as Rob explains: “Whilst undertaking business with our partners and installers we go to every length to be sure that we help one another to get through the peaks and troughs

Rob Eijgelsheim, sales director.

Although the range of floor coverings available to the market today is vast, each one is linked by the common requirement to utilise levelling compounds and adhesives as necessary. “Providing this combination gives us a powerful hold on the industry,” he adds.

For creating sound and even sub-floors, Forbo offers a complete and well-balanced range of primers, damp proof membranes, repair mortars and leveling compounds, suitable for all sub-floor compositions and conditions. It also develops and produces a full range

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PROFILE: forbo eurocol

that the industry is subjected to. The rough years are counteracted by innovating products to make sure they are better, or with different specifications than our competitors.

It is through this we are able to maintain an advantage in the market.”

With new products to be launched in 2015, further expansion of the capabilities will allow its customers to push new boundaries with construction projects. One product, of concrete based design, is essentially a paste, applied in a two-layer system. A simple finishing lacquer is applied and the result is a surface that has grown significantly in popularity in the last few years across much of Western Europe.

A second product, an artificially based solution, with very quick drying properties is expected to

32 Construction & Civil Engineering

dramatically change the speed at which installations can be completed. “The ultimate goal for our business is to develop solutions that make a difference to the installers,” insists Rob.

Efficient & fast Present construction is characterised by efficient and fast building systems, and professionals within the industry are frequently confronted with moisture sensitive building materials in bathrooms. An adequate protection of all types of sub floors can prevent damage of tile work and deterioration by moisture penetration. Furthermore, the quality and the preparation of the surface are very important for a durable high quality result, complementing the right choice of adhesive.

“As we begin the New Year, driving forward both existing and new products will play a big part of our strategy. Alongside that we will be pushing our building division into the UK, with a greater range

of products suitable for bathroom type environments. At the moment that area of our business is only within Belgium and Holland, but the UK market offers opportunities for expansion. Innovation has been the biggest factor in our success to date and holds the key for opportunities ahead. Addressing the environmental situation with combinations that benefit the installer and our clients is the right method to ensure we remain in front of our competitors,” concludes Rob. m

ENCI Sustainable cement for sustainable construction adhesive Forbo Eurocol manufactures construction adhesives using sustainable ENCI blast furnace cement, CEM III / A 52,5 N SR. Are you also always on the hunt for sustainable products? At ENCI we see it as our job to advise and guide our customers such as Forbo Eurocol in this area. More, in fact: our aim is to be an ‘eye-opener’ and to work with others in close partnership to develop solutions that reduce impact on the environment.

Forbo Eurocol www.forboeurocol.com Services: Manufacturer of tile and floor covering adhesives, grouts and levelling compound

Construction & Civil Engineering 33

PROFILE: KIERBECK THAMES

F

ollowing its establishment, Kierbeck underwent a period of rapid growth that lasted over two decades, reflecting its offering of an express service to contractors within London and the Home Counties. In 1990 it acquired the premises now known as Kierbeck Wharf, holding an enviable 200 metre berthing facility on a tributary of the River Thames.

From its new position, the business was able to start importing steel competitively from Europe and Turkey, as well as supplying contracts on the edge of the River Thames with ease. With this new facility it grew rapidly through the 90’s before setting up a pre fabrication facility in 2003, principally producing pile cages, beams, and diaphragm walls enabling contractors to save time on site by literally dropping the prefabricated reinforcement into place. Assembled and welded up in cages, this has become an added value service provided beyond the straightforward cut and bent service, which historically it had done.

Water side projects such as Canary Wharf, infrastructure for the Olympic Stadium, Aquatic Centre, Westfield Shopping Centre (Stratford), and Millennium Bridge, to name but a few, have become pinnacle references to the capabilities of the business.

Throughout its trading past Kierbeck has continued to build on that reputation and currently serves many Crossrail projects with a combination

34 Construction & Civil Engineering

Core strength As one of the top three suppliers to the piling industry, Kierbeck Thames Ltd has a history that dates back to 1977 of pre-fabricated and loose bar solutions, supporting projects across the capital, saving programme time, and ultimately disruption to the city of London.

“Handling over 45,000 tonnes a year, we are the only such company with a facility within the M25, and the only one with dedicated wharfage facilities,” says Brendon O’Connell, general manager. “Such a position continues to prove advantageous, and we have been a key contact for contractors tendering for the Thames Tideway Tunnel,” he adds.

Being able to barge fully assembled products directly out of its own wharf to the newly established berthing facilities at Blackfriars Bridge will benefit the company as

the contracts are awarded.

“The proximity of the factory to London means that we are able to offer a very accurate timeslot to clients, a necessity for ensuring works are completed to schedule in a very demanding climate. The ability to reach the job site quickly is a major advantage, not just in keeping to the schedule, but being able to react to last minute requirements from clients, should variations to the plan occur. That very quick service has for a long time counteracted any delays to the concrete pourers that may have occurred, and the perception of Kierbeck with the London badge, is big repeat business marketing for many customers, and enables us to give an un-paralleled service,” explains Brendon.

Alongside the mainstream reinforcement operations the business also provides a unique EASY LOK connection system, which it developed in 2006. “This is

a safe splicing system that enables the operative to join sections of cages together without risk of injury to hands and fingers. Access to locking nuts from an external position provides a completely safe scenario should the cage move, and the method is much faster than traditional solutions. On a recent Cementation project at Borough Station the system was a key factor in ensuring we completed the task within the four-hour possession time window available,” highlights Brendon.

Whilst its principle focus until recently has been EASY LOK, which is the only splice system in the country to have CARES approval, its R&D department has been actively working to produce a new SONIC tube coupling system. As one cage is placed on top of another, the remote arm joins the two tubes without the requirement of the operative putting his hand inside of the cage. Currently available as a prototype, the full launch is expected into the market later in 2015.

Current projects such as the Crossrail contract at Liverpool Street, working with Morrisroe on the Albert Embankment, the prestigious project of the Victoria and Albert Museum extension, demonstrate its comfort in delivering high profile contracts time and again. Holding on to that position in the market is not only an indication of the core fabrication skills, but further more an indication of the steps the company takes to ensure that the projects are able to flow with ease, as Brendon points out: “We are just finishing a contract on Victoria Dock, part of the Crossrail project. We engineered a project specific design using glass fibre reinforcement in replacement of traditional concrete or steel reinforcements, enabling a tunnelling machine to break through in significantly less time. We have also been able to offer this innovative solution to a number of contractors, either as a completely glass fibre reinforcement, or as a material combination at different levels.”

With over half of its yearly order already secured for 2015, the market has shown very healthy steps in the ongoing emergence from the recession six years ago. Despite many contracts being put on hold in the run up to the 2012 Olympics, the post-Games conditions have seen the upsurge of many signature projects, as well as a lift in the highrise property market. In response to the expanding workload, and keen to be able to react to the growing demands of its customer base, the business recently introduced a double shift system, providing business coverage for up to 17 hours a day, and the capacity to work around the clock should demand require. Such growth can be easily fed from its well-established training programme, through which a number of current employees trained, resulting in a very multi-

disciplined team.

As the change in shift patterns matures into its second quarter of operation, increasing capacity is a key vision for the business in the months ahead. “Currently fabricating 200 tonnes of material a week, we expect to lift that to 300 tonnes a week. Pre-fabrication is becoming ever more important to the industry, particularly on the congested sites within the M25 envelope. Our drive for 2015 is to continue increasing that, whilst maintaining the other services within our business, complemented by our success within research and design,” concludes Brendon. m

Kierbeck Thames Ltd www.kierbeck.com Services: Pre-fabricator and supplier of reinforcing steel to the UK piling industry

Construction & Civil Engineering 35

PROFILE: birtley group

Launched in October 2014, the Birtley Group has brought together two of the UK construction industry’s most trusted names: Birtley and Expamet

Fusing the elements T

he new Group structure brings widespread business efficiencies that enhance the delivery of even higher levels of customer service and market-leading value for money. In short, the Group aims to promote its strength through quality.

Birtley Group is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hill & Smith plc, which, with revenues of more than £400 million and a workforce of 3600 people provides an exceptionally solid foundation for future growth. From inspired new product thinking and trusted technical advice to right-on-time product delivery, the company is driven to put customers’ needs first, together creating growth across the industry, a sign of the Birtley Group commitment.

36 Construction & Civil Engineering

Birtley Building Products was established in 1956, based at the current site in County Durham.

Originally a steel fabricator for the area’s mining and power generation industries, the company made its first steel lintels in 1967. Bought

by Hill & Smith in 1981, Birtley has grown from reliable local supplier to a UK-wide force in construction design technology and product development. Its recently acquired sister company, Expamet Building Products, was first established in 1889 as the British Metal Expansion Company in Hartlepool. It had sole European rights for the manufacture of expanded metal mesh, mainly for use as reinforcement and lath in the rapidly expanding sector of concrete construction. Later changing its name to Expamet, it is today the market leader for

plasterer’s accessories and is one of the key brands within the Group.

In an interview published on the company’s website, Graeme Miller, group managing director, discusses the strategy behind the establishment of the group and what it means for the future of the company and its brands: “It was a natural first step of our strategy to deliver ambitious growth plans. Birtley Group allows us to formalise the ongoing relationship between our existing businesses Birtley Supergalv brand Lintels, Birtley Residential Doors, Birtley Galvanizing and our most recent acquisition Expamet. All our group product ranges will now go forward together under the iconic Birtley and Expamet brand banners.

“The obvious benefit that customers will see very quickly is the

Graeme Miller

generation of products,” points out Graeme. Long established product ranges have been highly successful, and therefore the only changes to the portfolio will be through an expanded offering, investing in new product development and new production facilities. The aim for Birtley Group in this sense is to provide the market with a lot more of a good thing.

Operating as a single Group, it will maintain operation on two separate production sites, as Graeme explains: “Both of our sites are centres of excellence in their particular product areas. The fantastic skills and experience of all our people remains right at the heart of our growth strategy.”

Advancing with this level of determination, the group has begun looking at growing and

way we will now be able to market our combined Group products more effectively than ever before, giving customers across the UK even higher levels of sales and technical support. Group status will also allow us to expand both organically and indeed via acquisition as opportunities present themselves.”

The reaction from its big and influential customer base has been very positive, recognising the fundamental basis of a growth strategy based on strength through quality. “If anything, our new status has further cemented our customer relationships – they’re eager to see fresh thinking in the marketplace with innovative product solutions alongside our long established ones.

They know that Birtley Group has the will, the vision and above all the resources to deliver that next

Construction & Civil Engineering 37

PROFILE: birtley group

developing its team, bringing in new members, ready to take the business forward. “Our message is simple – it’s business as usual, only more so. Our growth plans are ambitious and, of course, our success becomes our suppliers’ success. When it comes to new product development we’ll be collaborating closely with supplier companies to bring worldclass technologies to market. On a practical note, our day- to-day relationships and terms of business won’t change, so our suppliers can look forward to complete continuity,” he adds.

The growth strategy underpinning Birtley Group is based on shaking up the marketplace with more innovation, more added value and higher-than-ever levels of customer support – both in sales and technical. All these things take more

38 Construction & Civil Engineering

than know-how and commitment to deliver in the real world – they also need a strong foundation to ensure consistency. The Hill & Smith board believes firmly in everything Birtley Group stands for, and that backing ensures that the group has the all-important stability and critical mass to drive truly ambitious growth plans. Commenting on the years ahead, Graeme concludes:

“We have such great people and great products across the Birtley Group it’s impossible not to feel a real buzz for the future. The excitement right now is palpable.

Personally, I’m looking forward to remembering October 2014 as the pivotal point when a new, gamechanging chapter began for our business – with everyone involved inside and outside Birtley Group enjoying more success than ever before.” m

Birtley Group www.birtleygroup.co.uk Services: Manufacturer of Supergalv lintels, residential GRP Doors, BAT structural fixings, joist hangers, restraint straps, complete range of plasterer’s accessories and galvanizing service

PROFILE: BOSTIk

Cementing its hold D, Bostic UK

iscoll, M Ciaran O’Dr

“W

In September 2014 it was announced that Bostik’s owner Total, had received an offer from specialty chemicals organisation, Arkema, to acquire the business. With the transition seemingly entering its final stages, Bostik’s products look set to grip the attention of contractors industry wide

ith a close alignment of values and strategy, the move is seen very positively by everyone within the company,” explains Ciaran O’Driscoll, recently appointed managing director for Bostik UK. Having worked within Bostik across a number of roles that include directing the organisation’s Irish interests, as well as leading a global initiative to further boost the company’s innovation approach, Ciaran undertakes the role as MD with a true understanding of the business.

Innovation at the heart of smart adhesives Innovation has been a key pillar of the business strategy and Bostik has invested heavily in recent years in both facilities and people. Globally, the business utilises three large R&D centres, undertaking a great deal of upstream chemical development, researching polymers, their properties, and how they can be used in adhesives.

Its newest facility, the Bostik Smart Technology

Construction & Civil Engineering 39

PROFILE: BOSTIk

Centre, opened in France in the final quarter of 2014 and represented an investment of 12 million euros.

Over 100 highly qualified scientists and chemists are employed at the centre bringing its worldwide R&D headcount to over 480 specialists focused on developing new products and processes.

The firm has also invested in local innovation capabilities and the UK is no exception. Its Stafford research facility, which employs 25 scientists, has in recent months also received significant investment with the objective of developing new products for the UK market.

“Working closely with customers, we are driven to develop smart adhesives – products that do more than simply stick things together.

While we have our own dedicated R&D facility in Stafford primarily

focused on the local market, we can always draw upon additional resources and expertise from across our global R&D network when required,” says Ciaran.

A world-renowned reputation has been gained in adhesives and sealants, particularly in Bostik’s lead

technologies of Elastic Bonding, Hot Melt Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (HMPSA) and Polymer Modified Binders where it specialises. This expertise has contributed to a host of recent product launches including cementitious products for flooring, tiling, and grouting as well as fire retardant sealants, which meet the most stringent standards for mass transit applications. “We want to continuously innovate by bringing new products with additional features that benefit the end user.

In tandem with this, we adopt a systems-based approach with the aim of removing the risk for installers and end users whilst complying with all relevant legal and environmental requirements. All chemicals which we select are evaluated closely, ensuring they are not in any way dangerous for either our employees or end users,” points out Ciaran.

New product development for the construction market The fruits of Bostik’s innovationbased strategy are in evidence among its most recent product introductions for the construction market in the UK. One such product, designed in-line with contractors’ feedback, is the Screedmaster FLOW self-leveling compound, launched in September 2014.

“The launch greatly exceeded our expectations. It is designed to meet the ever-increasing demands of flooring contractors, and, as the name suggests, it has excellent flow characteristics. When poured,

40 Construction & Civil Engineering

it requires minimal effort from the contractor to spread it, and the market has welcomed the savings in terms of simplicity and time. What we are trying to do is give time back to the contractor,” explains Ciaran.

The flooring range extends to include products such as Screedmaster SPEED, Screedmaster ULTIMATE and Screedmaster FLEX, which is scheduled for launch in February 2015. As a fibrereinforced self-leveling compound, this new introduction will provide a solution for covering difficult floor surfaces such as timber and mezzanine floors. In addition, Bostik also recently introduced a range of special flooring adhesives for bonding all types of floor coverings including carpet, vinyl, LVT and wood.

From horizontal to vertical

coverings, Bostik continues to deliver complete solutions to the market, as Ciaran continues: “We have also launched a system for the external wall insulation market which is a growing segment in the UK, as efforts are made to reduce energy loss from buildings.” With the entire range fully approved by the British Board of Agrement,

Bathgate Silica Sand Ltd Bathgate Silica Sand Ltd has been established for over 60 years and is a leading producer and supplier of high quality silica sands for industrial and other specialised applications throughout the UK. Bathgate combines its substantial sand reserves, wealth of knowledge and extensive industry experience, ensuring the highest levels of product quality and customer service, and have been working with Bostik for many years delivering various grades of sand to their sites.

Bostik is anticipating significant success in 2015.

Focused brand strategy Bostik’s brands have also received significant focus with a new brand incorporating its ‘smart adhesives’ positioning launched in November 2013. Over the past year, much attention has been spent harmonising the product offering and converting products to the new branding.

“Bostik has evolved through the amalgamation of a number of different companies that have their own brands, so it has been difficult to leverage the strength of any single brand. Refocusing our branding in this way has opened up that opportunity, narrowing the focus of our significant spending and marketing in one area and

Construction & Civil Engineering 41

PROFILE: BOSTIK

providing a uniform offering that will be of greater interest to the customer,” points out Ciaran.

upgrades in 2015.

“This investment, along with technical expertise and on-site support, is being made with the customer in mind. We recognise that customer intimacy and effectively servicing customer needs is critical to our future success and we aim to build stronger relationships across all levels with our customers.”

Meeting customer needs through operational excellence Bostik has spent tens of millions on capital expenditure and equipment and goes into 2015 with a similar programme of investment aimed at improving operational excellence and serving customers in the most

Carcano Antonio S.p.A. With over 100 years of history, Carcano Antonio S.p.A. (Italy) is a leading company in the production of aluminium foil for different applications.

Thanks to its wide range of quality products, extensive expertise and special care for customer needs, Carcano is a reliable partner particularly proud to support Bostik in its continuous growth and success.

42 Construction & Civil Engineering

Investment in people efficient and cost effective way.

Ciaran says, “Operational excellence will be driven forward by continued investment in state-of-the-art equipment and processes. Although significant upgrades have been made to our plants and facilities in recent years, a further £2.5 million will be invested in the UK in automation and system

Bostik’s recent UK investments have not been limited to its innovation and operational capabilities as considerable resources have also been allocated to education and training initiatives for both staff and contractors. As part of the Contract Flooring Association and the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association, the business takes its role very seriously, as Ciaran explains:

“We continue to invest in the education of construction workers and offer training in a number of ways, including classroom and on-site training. In addition, by sponsoring industry associations including the Flooring Industry Training Association as well as colleges providing apprenticeships and NVQs, we also look to ensure the next generation of construction talent is fully equipped for the future.”

The investment of time and resource has extended to the specification market and working with the Royal Institute of British Architects has seen Bostik target key areas such as flooring and tiling, thermal construction and external wall insulation both at home and abroad. Exporting to growth markets has seen Bostik develop

a presence in the Middle East and Gulf regions in countries including Qatar and Saudi Arabia. A number of new airports in the Gulf region currently under construction have been supplied with Bostik products, including Abu Dhabi, Doha and the new airports in Muscat and Salalah in Oman. Furthermore, there are a number of prestigious projects in the Gulf region including shopping malls, banks and new five star hotels

that hold significant opportunity for the future.

Ciaran concludes: “My personal vision is for Bostik to serve as a valuable resource for the construction community and have real partnerships rather than simple transactional relationships. We will continue to forge closer relationships across the construction sector and offer solutions for all stakeholders including contractors, distributors, retailers and specifiers. With this principle central to our ongoing development, I’m very confident of continued success in the future.” m

Bostik www.bostik.co.uk Products: Global adhesive specialist

Construction & Civil Engineering 43

PROFILE: HELÉNS ROR

Focus on the future T

Heléns’ warehouse handles more that 100,000 tonnes of tubing every year for clients within the construction, engineering and processing industries

he company was initially founded in 1927, but it was not until the late 1950’s that it received a financial boost, spearheading the company into the successful position it holds today. The purchase of Heléns by the German organisation Benteler has provided a financial strength that was initially very important, and an association that connects the business to engineering clients and industry across many levels.

“That was in essence the change that started us as a tube distributor to the Swedish industries, becoming involved in welded precision steel tubes, seamless precision steel tubes, carbon hollow bars, welded circular hollow sections, special sections, cold

44 Construction & Civil Engineering

formed sections, energy, hydraulics and stainless, selling those products into Sweden,” says Stig Rex, sales director. Since that time the business has progressively grown from being a traditional stockist, forming closer working relationships with industry, resulting in the investment and development of its own internal production. “Instead of bringing in tubes and logistic services, we started to develop in house production, creating more value for our customers,” he adds.

Belonging to a family owned company, Heléns benefits from a structure that offers quick decisions, and the freedom to control its own destiny, continually delivering results. Today, its processing operation has become a major

part of the business, which as Stig points out has been advantageous: “We were quite early to leave the traditional stock business and I think that has been very successful for us.” Expanding from its initial operation in Sweden, its trading envelope encompasses much of the Nordic region such as Finland, Denmark and Norway, as well as the Baltic States and Russia, with local representation and stocks in each area.

The target markets are segmented into three main areas, as Stig highlights: “The biggest segment for us is mechanical engineering, which encompasses the mining industry, the agricultural industry, drilling works, and yellow goods. In general, it has been a very

Construction & Civil Engineering 47

PROFILE: HELÉNS ROR

tough year, with significantly less consumption over the last 12 months.

However, we are also working very closely with the Swedish automotive industry with manufacturers such as Volvo and Scania, with the car sector having achieved an all time high in 2014. The domestic construction

Bewo Cutting Systems B.V. Bewo produces automatic tube cutting lines which are world renowned for their reliability. Their cutting lines have extreme short changeover times. Changing over a complete Bewo cutting line to another batch of tubes to cut, takes only a couple of minutes using just a few tools. Bewo cutting lines are also designed to handle tubes with utmost care and leave practically no length deviation or deformation on the output.

Nevertheless every product automatically gets a complete quality check without slowing the tube cutting process.

46 Construction & Civil Engineering

market also maintains a heavy share of our total volume, and we have noticed an improvement in the building sector, with continued strengthening forecast. This has been driven by planned and important investments in infrastructure, and the building of private dwellings for individuals.�

A global reputation has certainly provided the business with an uncompromised strength, and belonging to a group that is active outside of Nordic countries, it too is effectively represented around the world. Working with the likes of Volvo Construction, actively manufacturing big wheel loaders, excavators, haulers, and yellow goods, it is clear the level of respect it has gained in the industry.

Additionally, clients such as Sandvik

Mining and Thule place further emphasis on that standing. “One of our major strengths is the mix of products that we have, holding the broadest and deepest stock of tubes for industry, covering all the different types of welded products, seamless tubes, hot rolled bars, and stainless materials, focused strongly on tube solutions for industrial customers.

“The in-house production service has also been developed to meet more specific demands, ensuring that the service is delivered in accordance with customer agreements. We have a sales force that is composed of 50 people, with 13 working externally, visiting the customers at sites, and identifying new buyers and new customers.

That focus on the customer is

essential, and by participating in different exhibitions, we have successfully built a customer stock of close to 2000 buying customers in Sweden,” says Stig.

One problem in high cost countries, such as the Scandinavian market, which has been well voiced, is the little growth in the consumption of steel. The forecast is leveled, and as Stig highlights:

“We cannot depend on growth for the future, instead we must depend on ourselves. By increasing the attractiveness of our service, and increasing that drive towards customers and customer solutions, we hope to make the necessary gains.” Since the collapse of the financial market in 2008, the industry has failed to recover to the comfortable levels previously experienced. However, businesses are still active, and competition has increased quite dramatically, particularly with companies from the more heavily affected areas such as Southern Europe, entering the regional market. “This is why it is important that we grow, more in added value, than in volume.

“Having recently reviewed our five-year plan, we work towards the increase of our part of the added value drive, as well as expanding our business with certain products.

We are an old and well established organisation, with a high market share for several of our products, so we have to look into the products where we have a lower market share, and review how we can grow on that to increase our volumes, particularly with focusing more on stainless tubes and bars,” concludes Stig. m

Heléns Ror AB www.helens.se Services: Steel tubes Construction & Civil Engineering 47

PROFILE: NORMET

Time to

excavate Normet strives to provide complete underground construction and mining technical solutions that create maximum value through saving costs and shortening the process cycle time in a way that also improves safety, and reduces uncertainty

W

anting to be close to its customers, and give the best possible service in order to react better and faster to changes in its clients’ environments and needs, Normet has established a global presence with facilities in 41 locations across 26 countries.

With these pillars, the business has excellent prospects for future development to deliver even more added value to customers

48 Construction & Civil Engineering

in the mining industry. Founded in Finland in 1962, the company has over five decades of experience in the development, production and sales of equipment and vehicles for underground mining and tunnel construction. Such equipment includes applications for underground concrete spraying and concrete transport, explosive charging, underground logistics, lifting installations and scaling. With over 10,000 delivered machines the company has become one of the

market leaders in its category.

In addition, it provides construction chemicals for these industries and comprehensive range of lifetime care services for maintenance and operating processes throughout the entire lifecycle of its products.

The incorporation of construction chemicals into its portfolio in 2010, saw the business venture into the role of an expert partner throughout the entire sprayed concrete process, specialising in the use of accelerators, and several other applications for a

spectrum of industries. Two further acquisitions in 2013 cemented the company’s standing as a supplier of underground equipment, construction chemicals and rock reinforcement. Having established Rock Reinforcement as a separate business line to focus on the critical area within underground operation, a main part of its offering is the D-Bolt, which is a novel rock bolt, specifically designed for efficient and reliable rock reinforcement in squeezing and burst-prone strata.

“Over the past couple of years, mining has been quite low, but we are hopeful that it is soon to pick up, and expect it to have reached normal level by the beginning of next year,” says Jukka Pihlava, group marketing manager, adding: “Civil tunneling is quite active in India and South East Asia, and also in the UK, where Crossrail projects are still ongoing and we are heavily involved in that. There is a general consensus that tunneling will continue to grow in Qatar, and that will remain the next big area for some time.”

Keen to maintain its position at the front end of the industry, the business has continued to invest in the updating and launch of new equipment, with close consideration to driving comfort, introducing equipment suspension and more economic cabins. “All our equipment now is ready for industrial internet applications, through which we are able to collect data on the process sheets. As an example in concrete spraying, we will look at what has been sprayed, how much has been sprayed, what kind of accelerator and how much has been used, and also information on the equipment itself. All our new

equipment will have the same kind of new features,” explains Jukka.

With future development based on product platforms to operate in all key customer processes including concrete spraying, explosive charging, man lifting, underground installation works, scaling, and man and material transport, its manufacturing facilities have also experienced continuous modernising of infrastructure. Normet has not only been investing a great deal in the production methods and equipment, but also in the professional skills of the employees in order to meet the ever-increasing challenges from the markets and demands from its own growth.

As all manufacturers in the mining industry await the much longed for recovery, it is noticeable that capital investment in mining has for some time been quite low.

The forward thinking approach of the business will inevitably propel it ahead of the competition as pace begins to pick up. However, as Jukka points out: “The main advantage is the combination of people, expertise and products

Construction & Civil Engineering 49

PROFILE: NORMET

that we have. We have a one-stop -shop for our customers – with the right chemicals and equipment, as well as people who have been in that business for a long time, on both the constructors and the owners’ side, so they know the business very well.”

Confident in the future of the company, Jukka highlights: “Our vision is easy, it is to continue to grow, and we look to do that across all markets. We are already a very global business, but we intend to further widen that presence. Our history shows a very active position in mining equipment, but we are also offering a full line of supply in a range of underground processes.

Promoting the strengths of the company, and really instilling in the minds of the customers what we are capable of, we expect to generate future business.” As Normet works towards its goals, it will make noticeable attendance to events in

50 Construction & Civil Engineering

2015, such as EuroMining in Finland, as well as repeating that pattern in 2016, attending the leading trade fair for construction machinery – Bauma 2016 and one of the largest mining shows – MINExpo 2016. m

Normet www.normet.com Services: Advanced process solutions for underground mining and tunneling

PROFILE: WILLOWBROOK Plant Services

Playingheavy In the middle of 2008, whilst many companies were experiencing hardship, a small group of engineers saw an opportunity to offer their service expertise in the world of construction equipment, establishing Willowbrook Plant Services

W

illowbrook Plant Services Ltd entered the market at a very challenging time on the financial calendar, yet clients jumped at the opportunity to have access to the knowledge and experience of the company’s founders, as they sought alternative solutions to purchasing new machinery. “We have built the business on the strength of our service and parts background that has grown its reputation by employing highly skilled staff with experience and vision. Not a lot of people were buying machines, so repair demands were much greater. Operating as a service and repair outfit, we were quickly

able to establish links with some of the bigger clients in the country,” announces sales director Brian Conn.

As demand saw the business quickly triple the amount of engineers on the road, in 2009 the company secured its role as a sales dealer for the Takeuchi mini excavator range.

Complementing the new path, it was soon after, in 2011, that Willowbrook was awarded a similar contract with Hyundai, further bolstering its strengths. The product range has been so well received that customers are now leaving other brands to benefit from its initial cost savings, fuel efficiency, lower maintenance, cab ergonomics, and all round performance.

The combination of sales and service has seen turnover rise from

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PROFILE: WILLOWBROOK Plant Services

£230,000 in its first trading year to a massive £16 million predicted for 2015. “We have really driven through the success of the sales, and built on the service experience that the guys brought across when the venture was first established. It has been a meteoric rise, we have obviously had a lot of growing pains in between, but we have been fortunate by the fact that we got in with the right brands at the right time,” says Brian.

With a steady stream of service and repair work, the agreements with the Takeuchi agency and the Hyundai agency accelerated the business. Takeuchi, with the brand that it has in the market place has always been a strong seller, so as Brian explains: “It was always a case of just sticking with it, keeping in contact with the customers and progression would be inevitable because the product almost sells itself. Securing the Hyundai contract in 2011 took us onto yet another level, because not only are the machines priced correctly, but they compete now

52 Construction & Civil Engineering

with what’s perceived as the best in the market. So we have built on that, growing our engineering capacity with more engineers, and gradually been awarded more area by the manufacturers, based on the success we have had in the past.”

It was during 2014 that further developments in its growth were made, with the company signing an agreement with Maximus Crushing and Screening Equipment.

Geographically, the company is responsible for the sales of the equipment for much of the country. “The early days have been successful, selling a handful of the units so far, and we hope to increase that to about 20 units this year. Over the last 12 months we have seen everybody who has held off for the last few years get back into buying mode. All manufacturers have been selling machines, but of course, when that happens, competition can become fierce, prices get tighter and deals get tighter. Certainly now the market recognises our presence

and sees that we are a true contender, matching to the likes of Hitachi and JCB in our areas,” explains Brian.

As the company continues to grow, it looks to future recruitment through two main channels, recommendation from within the industry and personal connections, ensuring that the business is able to continue to grow a team that complements the well established close knit community that it has for so long used to maximise its full potential. “We also have two apprentices employed, one which is finishing next year and the other has two years to go. They have both proved well worth the investment, and it is definitely the way to go forward,” Brian adds.

In 2014, sales of the 14 tonne Hyundai unit amassed a 50 per cent share of the business, as Brian points out: “There is a massive market for this size of machine and we have taken great success from it. Priced correctly, it is a true competitor to the likes of

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Construction & Civil Engineering 61

PROFILE: WILLOWBROOK Plant Services

CAT and Volvo. Either side, sales of our eight tonne range, and 20 tonne range have also amassed to a substantial amount.” In time, and in line with the growth of the business, a depot down in the M25 region or one further North may be established, depending on how much area it gains from current contracts. “There has always been talk of regional expansion, and this

Strickland Direct As a leading supplier ofbuckets, quick-couplers and attachments, Midlands based, Strickland Direct Ltd attributes its continued growth to its customer focused sales team. The combination of having Europe’s largest stock of finished buckets and attachments and our experienced sales team gives us the ability to react quickly offering next day delivery on the majority of orders placed. With a new purpose built factory and five acre site being due for completion in April 2015, Strickland Direct plan to further invest to cope with future increases in demand.

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54 Construction & Civil Engineering

will inevitably lead to the requirement of another depot. But as we look towards the future we are searching for a telehandler contract, with the likes of Manitou or Merlo, as well as another dumper agreement such as one with Bomag or Thwaites. Bolting such additions onto our offering would certainly be a great enhancement to the portfolio,” he concludes. m

Willowbrook Plant Services Ltd www.willowbrookplant.com Services: Dealership and service provider for construction plant

PROFILE: MILBANK CONCRETE PRODUCTS

All star

cast Milbank Concrete Products is a family owned business widely recognised as one of the UK’s leading suppliers of high quality precast concrete products

A

trading history of more than 60 years has seen Milbank Concrete Products build an enviable reputation as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of high quality precast concrete products. The business, which provides a broad range of precast concrete solutions to the construction industry and also offers design and technical support and delivery and installation services, is widely known for its quality, high levels of service and its unique approach to relationships with its clients.

“Our success is in large attributed to us ‘going

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42 Construction & Civil Engineering

PROFILE: MILBANK CONCRETE PRODUCTS

the extra mile’ and this is a value that we really work hard to achieve and promote at all levels within the business. For example, as we’ve expanded our team in recent months our aim is to instil this idea in our new staff members. We think it’s really important to develop this idea as a cultural notion so that we pre-empt our clients’ requirements wherever possible and always ‘help our customers achieve success’,” says Andy Mayne, managing director of Milbank.

“Today we are recognised as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of high quality precast concrete products and from our seven acre site in North Essex we design, manufacture and install a wide range of precast and prestressed concrete solutions,” he continues.

“We’re a family owned business

with a staff of over 160 people, and we are currently seeing an unprecedented demand for our services, primarily as a consequence of the current boom in the construction industry, but also because of our hard won reputation for quality and reliability.”

In accordance with such a reputation, Milbank’s products are the first choice for a number of sectors. For example, while the majority of its output is destined for the construction industry the business has a diverse range of clients, and thus projects. “House builders form the bulk of our client base, and these range from the very largest national builders through to self-builders building their own homes or extensions. We’re seeing a resurgence of commercial property development as the economy

strengthens and it’s a market that we are well placed to service. In addition infrastructure projects are gaining impetus, with us working on projects for rail, power and environmental clients, and we are also seeing a growth in sporting facility projects such as terracing for stadiums.”

The business provides a broad spectrum of products in its portfolio, which is bolstered by the knowledge and innovative spirit of its design and technical support team. Of course, while designed for a number of applications the products bring with them some key advantages thanks to their precast nature. For example, precast components are manufactured off-site in an enclosed, controlled casting environment that ensures

Cadman Cranes Cadman Cranes is a family business offering crane hire, contract lifting and specialist lifting solutions throughout East Anglia, London and the South East. Operating a vast range of all-terrain and truck mounted cranes alongside specialist mini cranes and lifting accessories Cadman Cranes is equipped to tackle any lifting challenge. Since its inception in 1959 the Cadman name has been synonymous with quality equipment, experienced personnel and the highest standard of service. It is these shared principles that make the long standing partnership with Milbank Concrete Products so effective. Regularly working together on multiple sites at any one time the two companies have an intimate relationship and whether it be on-site personnel, technical professionals or senior management the two fully understands the other’s procedures and requirements. For nearly 40 years Cadman has been installing Milbank’s structural concrete on some of the area’s most high profile and complex projects and this strong bond between two leading lights of the construction industry will see quality Milbank products in the air for another 40 years to come.

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PROFILE: MILBANK CONCRETE PRODUCTS

consistent quality and avoids potential delays, precast floors and stairs allow immediate site access and finishing access following installation, the process is quicker than in-situ mould construction and pouring and products can be delivered to site when needed eradicating the need for onsite storage, and it has excellent longevity and sound reduction qualities.

“In terms of products there are two main strands to our growth strategy in 2015, the first of which is our WarmFloor solution, which is a thermally insulated floor used to construct ground floors,” Andy highlights. “It’s a concept that is really gaining momentum because builders are looking to save construction costs and buyers are wanting lower heating costs.

58 Construction & Civil Engineering

WarmFloor delivers both lower costs and higher levels of insulation so we’re seeing increased uptake and gearing for expansion. We’ve also increased capacity in our precast stair production facility and our aim is to increase volume at

the same time as delivering a higher quality product. We’ve recently invested in a number of new steel moulds to replace our older timber moulds, meaning that we can offer a much higher standard of finish (Type B) on our standard stairs.”

As well as standard stairs, Milbank has added spiral staircases to its portfolio, as Andy explains. “The growth of our curved and spiral stair production continues and it looks likely that we will soon need to increase our capacity with a new mould to complement our current system. To our knowledge our existing Construx stair mould is unique in the UK and we have gained considerable expertise over the last two years in the design and production of these complex units.

“The main attraction for our customers is that our curved stairs offer a level of solidity and quality that is unequalled by any other material,” he continues. “This is particularly important to the owners of prestige properties, which often feature swept and curved stairs in their designs that make use of generous spaces offered in large houses. Conversely, the same stair technology allows us to build one piece ‘winder’ stairs, which make the most of restricted spaces and work very well in town house construction.

For example, we recently secured a contract to produce 40+ winder stairs in a prestigious West London development with the first stairs due to be delivered in Spring this year. Spiral stairs are surprisingly economical when compared to an insitu solution, so they add significant value for money and appeal to the moderately priced house also.”

In regard to investing in new moulds the company is expecting delivery of a new adjustable steel mould from the continent which, when installed, will greatly expand its production capabilities. It will enable the business to offer some of its more complex stair designs, which are currently manufactured using timber moulds, in a steel mould. “The upshot of this,” says Andy, “is that

we will be able to respond more quickly to orders and deliver a first class finish.

It means that we can also incorporate customised stair recesses and nosing, which is something that our clients have been repeatedly requesting.”

Although Milbank manufactures its products in its own facilities, the delivery and installation phase of a project presents numerous challenges. For this reason the business has its own dedicated delivery and installation teams that travel to the site. “Safely installing any precast concrete unit takes great skill, which is why we have 11 directly employed teams who are responsible for installing our products,” Andy comments. “The experience of these individuals often makes the difference to the success of an installation and they are often required to think on their feet to overcome unexpected challenges in a safe and professional manner. They work alongside our installers and with our clients to co-ordinate the logistics required, and by reacting quickly to changing circumstances they often save the day by overcoming unforeseen obstacles. We actually regularly receive positive feedback from clients who have been impressed by their resourcefulness and willingness to help.”

Naturally, with the inherent dangers of installation health and safety is of paramount concern for Milbank. One of the main dangers on construction sites is falls from heights, and as Andy explains, it is a danger that Milbank takes very seriously. “We provide our Passive Fall Arrest System, which is deployed during our installations. We own and operate the system ourselves and it is part of the complete service we provide to clients. Essentially it consists of giant air bags that are inflated below the work area and is designed to prevent injury in the unlikely event of a fall. In

conjunction we also have a unique gantry system designed in-house and tested externally for unloading our products to ensure our teams are safe in all operations.”

As the construction industry steadily recovers from years of uncertainty, there remains reason to be confident for the coming years for Milbank. As Andy concludes, the business will continue to develop and invest in order to maintain its leading position in the market.

“The outlook for 2015 is certainly encouraging, and we’re seeing an uplift in the level of inbound enquiries and the strong finish to 2014 has given us the confidence to make significant investment in new infrastructure and capacity.

The future for Milbank is very much about us building steadily

on our core strengths. We are programming substantial upgrades to our production facilities over the next year, which will deliver greater capacity and efficiency.

We’re also making a significant investment in technology with the roll out of a new company wide IT operating system that will join up all our departments from sales to invoice along with delivering highly detailed project costing. Lastly, our new website went live at the beginning of this year, offering more up-to-date content and functionality, and the reaction so far has been extremely positive.” m

Milbank Concrete Products www.milbank.co.uk Products: Precast concrete products Construction & Civil Engineering 59

PROFILE: LONDON BASEMENT

Going underground

While property above ground in cities such as London remains at a premium, London Basement is at the forefront of constructing innovative, high quality basement living spaces 60 Construction & Civil Engineering

T

he growing need for habitable space in cities worldwide, particularly in London, where homeowners have already exploited loft or attic space and find it difficult to extend onto an existing property, has led to the construction and development of increasingly large and more

complex, innovative basements.

London Basement, which can trace its roots back to the early 1960s, has been at the forefront of this concept, providing pioneering basement construction services to become London’s basement construction specialist of choice. “The idea of basements, or should I say, converting basements into

habitable space is a fairly new idea and the number of projects being undertaken on an annual basis has increased substantially in the last 20 years – in Kensington and Chelsea, in London, there were over 400 planning applications in 2013 alone. London Basement is a specialist contractor providing retrofit basements beneath existing

houses in London. “The ownership of the company changed in 2010 and since that time we have sought to ensure that the business is recognised as being the market leader, highly professional, and a company that our clients would recommend. At present we have 20 projects running concurrently ranging from 600

square feet upwards,� explains Stephen Merritt, managing director of London Basement.

The business has considerable experience in its field, which enables it to provide clients with a fully personalised, tailored service that can include basement planning, design and construction. This can

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PROFILE: LONDON BASEMENT

incorporate an initial survey and feasibility, basement design and planning, project management, basement construction and house refurbishment. “Our specialist area is the construction of the basement structural shell,” says Stephen. “Over the years we have led different methods of creating the space, including going under solid floors whilst undertaking the projects in the safest manner possible, which is why we have such an excellent safety record.

62 Construction & Civil Engineering

“Imagine the footprint of a house,” he continues. “We aim to replicate this and to use steel beams to leave a flexible area for the client to then decide the shape of the rooms. Most things are possible, it’s just a question of cost and of course planning permission, which is becoming more difficult for multi-storey basements.” Indeed, London Basement offers a complete range of basement construction services employing a large number of structural teams, waterproofing

and site set up crews that allow it to tackle any size or complexity of basement construction project.

The company has innovation at its core, aiming to constantly push the boundaries of basement construction in order to meet the growing expectations of clients. This approach has seen the business develop new engineering, construction and underpinning methods in order to maximise basement space, as well as extending basements

below gardens and driveways. In most instances the company carries out a retrofit type service, whereby it excavates under the property to a size and specification set by the client. This work is not confined to one level as London Basement has considerable experience of building multiple level basements that can include swimming pools, plant rooms, wine cellars and storage.

“With a limited ability to go anywhere but down and with high levels of stamp duty, we are seeing the area where basements work financially spread out,” Stephen says. “Some of the projects involve creating a basement where there is nothing under the house, whereas some already have an old coal cellar for example. Whatever the project, the principles remain the same. In terms of challenges, the

key issue for us is access. We are often undertaking these projects in busy parts of London with limited parking (we typically need two parking bays – one for a skip and one for a welfare area). Given that our work involves working underneath a house we need to ensure that the property is adequately supported, and so we have both temporary and permanent engineers design for all our projects.”

Considering the nature of London Basement’s work health and safety is naturally of great importance. The company believes that if the job is not completed safely then it is not done effectively, and accordingly it uses a specialist health and safety company to oversee its projects.

“We use an external consultant to audit each of our projects on

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PROFILE: LONDON BASEMENT

Premier Plant Hire Leading tool and plant hire company Premier Plant Hire is proud to provide London Basement with total supply chain management, including all hire equipment, tools and consumables, welding services and haulage. Equipment for hire includes conveyor belts, mobile scaffold towers, dumpers, small tools such as breakers and pumps, and low-emission excavators which have been specifically developed for the basement industry. Premier Plant Hire provides the total supply chain solution so that London Basement can concentrate on its core business.

64 Construction & Civil Engineering

a monthly basis to ensure that we are complying with all the rules and regulations,” Stephen highlights. “The whole team knows the importance of health and safety and we reinforce this with regular training. At the same time we have been going through the process of ISO 9001 certification and we are also a member of the Considerate Constructors Scheme and try our best to reduce disruption to local residents.

“In fact, basements often have a bad name due to the noise and disruption that they can cause. This is often due to a poor contractor not following the industry guidelines and traffic management plans. The industry must do more to stamp this out and Considerate Constructors is one option, along with more enforcement and publication of contractor scores.”

Of course, more stringent

regulation is not something that should concern London Basement as its reputation for quality and innovation goes from strength to strength in the industry. Over the coming years the need for living space in busy cities like London will only grow, and considering this, the future for London Basement looks very bright. “Over the coming years we want to steadily grow the company whilst ensuring that our personal approach to our work is maintained, in fact, that aspect is more important to us than simply chasing turnover,” Stephen concludes. m

London Basement www.londonbasement.co.uk Services: Specialist retrofit basement contractor

Construction & Civil Engineering 65

PROFILE: KONE

flow

Gowiththe Kone is the global leader in the lift and escalator industry, providing an extensive range of industry-leading lifts, escalators, passenger conveyors and industrial and automatic building doors, as well as innovative solutions for modernisation and maintenance

F

ounded in 1910 the company remains dedicated to providing the best ‘People Flow’ experience by developing and delivering solutions that enable people to move smoothly, safely and in comfort, and without any waiting in buildings in an increasingly urbanised environment.

The company is committed to

66 Construction & Civil Engineering

understanding and implementing the needs of its customers such as builders, building owners, facility managers, and developers across a range of industry sectors including residential buildings, hotels, office and retail buildings, medical buildings, leisure and education centres, infrastructure, and medical facilities. Presently KONE operates through more than 1000 offices worldwide, spanning around 50 countries. It has seven global production sites, eight global R&D centres and authorised distributors in its key market areas, giving it the ability to serve thousands of clients across the globe.

In the UK, KONE Great Britain provides the full range of lifts, escalators and autowalks, doors, maintenance and modernisation services in the KONE portfolio. In keeping with the KONE vision the

business is responsible for delivering a performance edge to its customers through the creation of the best user experience gained from ‘People Flow’ solutions. As a leader in its field the company has been involved with many prestigious projects in the UK, including The Shard, 122 Leadenhall Street, 20 Fenchurch Street, Cannon Place, 30 St Mary Axe and Broadgate and 201 Bishopgate buildings, Emirates Stadium, Brunel University, Citigroup, The Co-operative Group HQ, The Jubilee Line Extension, St. Georges Wharf and Heathrow Aiprort Terminal 5 & 2.

The latter work at London Heathrow airport has been a significant and lengthy range of projects for KONE, which has been working at the site since 1990. The business was involved in the construction and development of Terminal 5, providing autowalks, escalators and

lift solutions. The main building, T5A, consists of eight levels under a single span roof making the logistics of effectively transporting up to 30 million passengers per year a considerable challenge, and calling for an innovative mix of lifts, escalators and autowalks that would enable passengers to traverse the complex in an intuitive manner.

Using its ‘People Flow’ approach, KONE provided 103 escalators, 54 lifts and three autowalks in T5A and T5B, successfully delivering and installing everything on time and fully operational.

Following this KONE was awarded a five-year contract for all five terminals at Heathrow Airport in 2001, work that encompassed more than 700 units of lifts, escalators and moving walkways. The contract included work at the T2B satellite

building to Heathrow’s Terminal 2, which opened in 2014, and involved the supply of 40 lifts, 18 escalators and 12 autowalks.

More recently, in 2014 the company secured a five year extension to this contract to maintain equipment for people and goods movement at

all Heathrow Airport terminals, meaning that KONE will ultimately be responsible for the smooth and efficient flow of around 72 million passengers per year at the airport.

The contract extension highlights Heathrow Airport’s recognition of KONE as a service provider of choice, selecting the company due to it consistently delivering and excellent people flow experience for passengers and a 99.7 per cent equipment availability rate.

Speaking at the time of this development Michael Williams, managing director for KONE in Great Britain said: “I am proud that our long-term partnership with Heathrow Airport continues. It is a magnificent achievement to be awarded the contract to maintain all the equipment. Heathrow is internationally renowned for being

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PROFILE: KONE

one of the busiest transportation hubs in the world. To be assigned the service provider of choice and to help passengers move around efficiently and comfortably is a huge credit to our team.”

The business is well renowned for its work at UK airports, with the KONE name being synonymous with quality and innovation in moving people efficiently and effectively.

In addition to its work at Heathrow Airport the business has completed a series of projects at Gatwick Airport, most recently (December 2014) securing a four-year contract to maintain its lifts, escalators and autowalks. KONE will be responsible for providing around-the-clock maintenance service as well as being Gatwick’s modernisation partner for associated equipment.

The company’s ongoing success

relies on its dedication to moving people in an innovative and highly effective manner. Its products are industry leading and eco-efficient, providing best-in-class solutions for customers. Its escalators and autowalks for example set the standard for eco-efficiency, safety

and visual design, providing high quality and reliability combined with a low total cost of ownership. As they are tailored for each individual client requirement they are idea for any number of applications.

For KONE, innovation is key and this was recently recognised when business magazine Forbes named the company as one of the world’s most innovative companies. In summer last year KONE was ranked 42nd out of the top 100 most innovative companies in the world, and was ranked sixth of all European companies listed. It was also the only lift and escalator company features on Forbes’ list. Since its inception the company has been at the forefront of its industry with a number of ‘firsts’, including in 1996 when it was the first company to introduce machine-room-less lifts More recently it has developed highrise lift-hoisting technology, KONE UltraRope, which will enable lifts to travel heights up to one kilometre – twice the current possible distance.

“It’s a great honour to be recognised among the world’s most innovative companies for a fourth consecutive year,” said Henrik Ehrnrooth president and CEO of KONE Corporation. “Innovation and technological advancement have been at the core of our company for decades and will continue to be moving forward.”

Indeed, moving forward there is little doubt of continuing success for KONE. The business remains entirely dedicated to innovative methods of ensuring effective ‘People Flow’.

The company understands the importance of ensuring that people are able to move smoothly and efficiently and through continued development it will strive to make the elevator or escalator ride as safe, comfortable and efficient as possible for users all over the world. m

Kone www.kone.com Services: Lift and escalator manufacturer 68 Construction & Civil Engineering

Editor Libbie Hammond libbie@schofieldpublishing.co.uk Sales Team

+44 (0) 1603 274130 Schofield Publishing 10 Cringleford Business Centre Intwood Road Cringleford Norwich NR4 6AU