Building Scotland V14N03

V14 N03

AMBITIOUS EXPANSION INVIGORATES KIRKCUDBRIGHT

FAKRO ROOF WINDOWS – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW.

As you know, at FAKRO we’ve always invested in research and development to bring you a range of roof windows that offer some of the most innovative features on the market.

They provide more light, with sleek modern frames which have the operating handle in the base of the sash.

Our FTT Thermo U8 window with Uw= 0.58W/m2K is one of the most efficient on the market and you can rest assured that every one of our products carries the CE mark.

www.fakro.co.uk

FOR THOSE WHO KNOW

NEWS - 6

6

COMMENTS 16 Foundation defects under the spotlight 17 Return on Investment and your personality type: Thinking beyond financial metrics 18 Good faith and construction contracts 19 The pitfalls of basement conversions 20 Are Electric LCV’s a viable solution for the construction industry?

21 TomTom Telematics 22 Has traditional marketing had its day?

23 CDM 2015 24 The problem with SUD’s is that they are designed by engineers 25 The best advice for all invasive plant species 26 Why a buoyant construction industry is fed up with politics 27 Modular building – a better way?

Managing Editor Gareth Trevor-Jones Editor Victoria Lee Editorial Robert Atherton Designer Richard Gill Proof Reader Matthew Brown Approvals Sarah Smith Administration Alecia Rowe Credit Control Carol Ryan

12

EDUCATION 28 Ellon Academy 37 FSC Millport 40 Netherton Primary School

PROFILE 32 Robertson Central 41 Dumfries & Galloway Council 42 Better Regulation

Display Advertising Sales T: 01257 231900 E: admin@ukconstructionmedia.co.uk www.ukconstructionmedia.co.uk

Follow us on...

CIVIL 34 Forth Replacement Crossing 38 NHV UK at Wick John O’Groats Airport

28

HOUSING 36 Distillery Cottages Development 39 Home Farm, Portree

41

ISSN 1461-1279 UK Construction Media Stirling House Ackhurst Business Park Chorley PR7 1NY T: 01257 231900 E: admin@ukconstructionmedia.co.uk www.ukconstructionmedia.co.uk

© Copyright UK Construction Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced or transmitted in any form without the prior permission of UK Construction Media. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

ESTIMATING & VALUATION SOFTWARE

Woodgreen Construction is a family-owned company based in Birstall, West Yorkshire. They have been in business for over 20 years and have a diverse client base ranging from local authorities and utility companies through to commercial property and large retail clients.

Woodgreen Construction has only recently worked with ConQuest within the last 12 months, but Mario De Luca, Head of Estimating, has worked with ConQuest on pre-contract work since 2000 and in that time has used the software to estimate more than 1,000 projects.

ConQuest has helped with projects that the Company has undertaken ranging from the project management and refurbishment of various Asda Stores, to Commercial and Retail Works.

Mario De Luca described the ‘priceless’ support that ConQuest provides, as well as the efficiency of the system.

“I seem to find everything about ConQuest, including the support, excellent. A lot of the time it’s the support that is priceless. If you have a problem, that’s when you need them the most.

“I had a job a couple of months ago that went corrupt but they managed to sort it out, for

which I was ever so grateful as it saved me a whole lot of time and work.

“You don’t realise how much time ConQuest saves you. It’s what it does behind the scenes; it’s just so much more efficient, pulling all the enquiries and everything else together, whereas if you had to do it all yourself it would be a nightmare. ConQuest does it all for you!”

Woodgreen Construction Ltd, Birstall, West Yorkshire.

01204 669689 sales@conquest.ltd.uk

THE ESTIMATING SOFTWARE PEOPLE

BS NEWS

BiP Solutions acquires Pro-Mark Media BiP Solutions (BiP), the leading provider of business intelligence solutions for the public/private sector marketplace, has acquired Pro-Mark Media (PMM) – one of the UK’s leading construction media companies with an established portfolio of digital magazines and online channels.

The acquisition brings together two businesses with more than 50 years’ combined experience of providing the construction sector supply chain with targeted market intelligence and opportunities to promote its capabilities and expertise.

BiP has more than 30 years’ experience of helping businesses identify and win contracts within both the public and private sectors; many of which are construction orientated. While formed in 2013, PMM calls on more than 19 years experience of publishing magazines and providing online services that promote opportunities within the supply chain for construction projects. Both businesses have successfully moved their offerings to a digital platform, and are expert in bringing buyers and suppliers together through the provision of high-value content.

Ron Burges, Founder and Executive Chairman of BiP Solutions, said: “The acquisition of Pro-Mark Media is an exciting venture for BiP Solutions and comes at exactly the right time for both companies.

6

The construction sector in the UK is set for considerable growth, and our combined expertise, market reach and intelligence will allow us to develop and create products that are rich in value and insight. We are delighted to welcome Pro-Mark Media into the BiP family, and believe that our customers – current and future – will benefit greatly from this venture.”

Adrian Dunleavy, Chairman of Pro-Mark Media, said: “Pro-Mark Media has combined a strong heritage with products right for today’s vibrant construction market and we now are delighted to be joining the BiP family. This transaction marks the next stage in the development of our business, it offers the potential for our clients to access a wider product portfolio and for our company to work within a dynamic and progressive organisation. Pro-Mark Media want to remain at the pinnacle of modern b2b media and by working with BiP going forward we are confident of achieving that.”

PMM, which employs 30 staff, will continue to be based in Chorley. BiP, which employs 160 staff at its premises in Glasgow and also has offices in London and Dublin, will share management and other resources with PMM. BiP’s brands include its flagship Tracker business intelligence service, the Delta e-sourcing solution for public sector buyers and an events portfolio covering

the defence, health and wider public sector. PMM’s brands under the UK Construction Media banner include UK Construction Online, UK Construction Journal and Building Scotland.

About BiP Solutions

••BiP Solutions offers business intelligence services, consultancy services, inhouse training and focused events, providing buyers and suppliers with invaluable procurement guidance ••BiP is an established authority on all aspects of public procurement, and advise thousands of organisations in the UK and Europe on how to achieve best practice in this complex and often changing environment ••In addition BiP provides compliant, innovative solutions, supporting procurement, supply chain and supplier engagement optimisation programmes for clients across the public and private sectors in the UK and beyond ••Established in 1984 ••160 staff based at HQ in Glasgow ••Offices in London and Dublin ••bipcorporate.com

Pick Everard helps council to meet demand for pupil places with new school A demand for state-of-the-art teaching facilities in Scotland is being addressed in the Western Isles as Pick Everard helps to deliver a new school through the Scape framework.

The £8.4M project, procured through the national Scape framework, will see leading independent design, construction and infrastructure consultancy Pick Everard provide project management and quantity surveying services for the scheme, which will combine three existing primary schools into one.

The Sgoil Uibhist a’ Tuath - in the Outer Hebrides - will see the creation of 100 pupil places, alongside extra provision for early learning and childcare, car and bus parking with drop off facilities, and hard play areas including a multi-use games area and 3G synthetic pitch.

The project will also see the demolition of the former secondary wing and head teacher’s house on the site. An environmental garden with polytunnel and planting area is also being landscaped as part of the project.

Pick Everard Director, Euan Matheson, said: “This project will help to boost the local community by providing a far better learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and large outdoor recreational areas improving outcomes for the area’s young people.

“We are pleased to be working in partnership with the council to provide modern facilities which will cater for the 21st Century needs of the school and its users today and into the future.”

Cllr Catriona Stewart, Chair of Education and Children’s Services at Comhairle nan

Eilean Siar, said: “I am delighted that the project has reached this key milestone.

“The Comhairle aims to allocate resources in a way which will secure the best possible educational experience for pupils in the Western Isles. A key objective is the effective deployment of resources to secure continuous improvement in educational achievement and attainment.”

Pick Everard is the sole provider of project management and quantity surveying services for the Scape national framework. Use of the Scape frameworks means that clients are able to start their projects immediately.

The first phase of the project is expected to be handed over in the summer of 2016 with a winter 2016 handover for the remaining external works.

Barr Construction toasts appointment to create new extension at BrewDog HQ Barr Construction, one of the UK’s leading construction companies, is celebrating having secured the contract to build a 4,500sq ft expansion at BrewDog’s existing brewery headquarters in Ellon.

This will be one of the final projects delivered under the Barr Construction banner following the recent merger with McLaughlin & Harvey.

The £5M expansion includes the creation of a new 300 hectolitre (HL) brewhouse which will be added to the current facility. This large steel frame building will contain the production and warehouse areas and will enable BrewDog to cater to increased demand which is expected to see the brewers’ current facilities maxed out by the end of this year.

In addition to the brew-house, Barr Construction will also be responsible for developing a new tank farm at the Aberdeenshire site, which will involve

the installation of 20 new tanks. This will be located at the first floor level of the brew-house, making maximum use of the available space on-site.

The project will also include the development of three-storey office accommodation at the front of the site.

Commenting on the appointment, Robbie Clark, Head of Business Development, said: “We are extremely pleased to have been awarded the contract with BrewDog to expand their current premises in Ellon and are looking forward to getting on-site.

“We have an extensive track record of creating high quality facilities for those in the food processing and drinks industry across the UK and are pleased to be working with BrewDog on our first project together.

“BrewDog is growing quickly with high demand for its products, and our team of professionals will ensure

a fast and efficient turnaround and, more importantly, with no disruption to the current brewing process whilst they undergo the expansion.”

BrewDog co-founder, James Watt, added: “The next 12 months are going to be a whirlwind of intense and exciting growth for BrewDog, and we’re looking forward to working with the Barr Construction guys on the much needed expansion of our site.

Despite continuously investing in growing our production capacity, we still cannot make all the BrewDog beers that craft beer fans around planet Earth want to drink. The new warehouse and tank farm will enable us to meet this demand and get more awesome beer into more people’s paws.”

7

BS NEWS

Esh Border Construction completes £3.7M factory expansion Esh Border Construction has successfully completed its £3.7M extension of a cutting edge food production facility in Dumfries and Galloway.

The Company delivered the ambitious redevelopment project in Kirkcudbright for pate manufacturers Castle MacLellan Foods - doing so while ensuring the facility remained operational throughout.

Among the highlights of the complex works programme are a new freezer building with a dry goods facility attached, a new goods-in area - which was completed while accommodating regular deliveries throughout the day - a distribution corridor, additional storage buildings, and new staff areas.

A striking new entrance building was also linked to the existing offices, creating a dynamic public frontage.

The expansion project began in January 2014 and, across several challenging phases, was completed on target in October.

It was officially opened in February 2015, allowing Castle MacLellan’s 80 full-time

8

staff and 160 seasonal staff to realise a 50% increase in production capacity.

More than 1,000 tonnes of pate can now be produced annually at the factory.

Construction Director, John Wilkinson, said: “There were many unique challenges for Esh Border Construction on this project. Certainly, maintaining an operational facility while redevelopment works took place is no mean feat.

“Castle MacLellan continued operations right the way through, even when the new services were going in, and we’re pleased that through our collaborative approach, we were able to help them achieve that.”

Elaine McConnell, General Manager at Castle MacLellan, said: “Esh Border Construction did a fantastic job - they listened to what we needed and delivered it to a high standard.

We’re really pleased to be able to make our pates in the new facility.”

Esh Border has firmly established its place in Scotland with a clutch of new business wins and the opening of a new base in Livingston.

It is currently working on several Scottish contracts including a £1.4M deal with Gullane Golf Course, renovating it in advance of this year’s Scottish Open; £6.4M of contracts on two social housing programmes in Hawick; and a £2.7M contract for three projects at NHS Lothian.

GRAHAM Construction to deliver critical care in the Highlands GRAHAM Construction has been appointed Main Contractor to refurbish the critical care and theatre suites at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness.

The original building at Raigmore Hospital was constructed in 1980 and will be transformed with a major refurbishment to meet modern healthcare standards and requirements.

A new purpose built Critical Care Unit (CCU) will bring all critical care services into one area over two floors.

GRAHAM will also renew operating theatres at the hospital which services the population of the Highlands (NHS Highland) as well as Moray (NHS Grampian) and the Western Isles (NHS Western Isles).

The work will include the redevelopment and upgrade of the theatre block and will be carried out in order to meet modern health care standards.

Gary Holmes, Regional Director at GRAHAM Construction, said: “GRAHAM Construction has significant experience in delivering modern healthcare facilities and we are looking forward to working closely with NHS Scotland.

“This state-of-the-art facility will be critical to the healthcare needs of the Highlands and will be a fantastic addition to the local health services.”

Charles Bloe, NHS Highland, Clinical Ward Manager, said: “The current CCU is located a considerable distance from the emergency department where we accept and transfer many patients. As part of the tower block reconfiguration, the CCU will move down to the ground floor making it much more accessible to staff.

“The senior nursing staff have been able to add their clinical expertise during the planning of the new department and this has been invaluable

to ensure the structure and design of the new department reflects the needs of both staff and patients.”

GRAHAM Construction has already worked on a number of stand-out healthcare facilities including Gullane Day Centre and Medical Practice and Carluke Community Health Centre.

This project is being delivered under the HFS2 Framework which is delivering design, development and construction projects across Scotland for the NHS over the next six years.

GRAHAM is involved in a number of these projects and is due to commence work on the new Intensive Psychiatric Care Unit (IPCU) in Stratheden Hospital, Fife (NHS Fife) as well as work at Monklands Hospital, Theatre/ITU upgrade in Lanarkshire (NHS Lanarkshire).

9

BS NEWS

New Waverley to flourish ‘Underneath the Arches’ A brand new retail and leisure quarter centred around a row of Victorian arches has been unveiled as part of the latest phase of the £150M New Waverley development, currently transforming the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

The C-listed brickwork arches were originally constructed in 1875 to create double-fronted openings beneath the city’s Jeffrey Street - one of several Victorian ‘bridge streets’ in the area designed to create more light and development space in an effort to improve overcrowding and poverty along the Royal Mile.

However, due to the expansion of the railway terminus at Waverley Station in the second half of the 19th century, the Jeffrey Street ‘bridge’ was never completed - resulting in one side of each of the 19 arches remaining exposed.

This unique historical curiosity has allowed Artisan Real Estate Investors, the developers behind New Waverley, to create an exciting leisure-based environment that will bring the high-

10

vaulted bridge structure back to life, creating an eclectic community of bars, restaurants and independent retailers beneath its arches.

Clive Wilding, Artisan’s Project Director, explains:”This is a wonderful opportunity to create a completely new kind of retail and leisure experience, right in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The arches were traditionally used for storage areas and have never been accessible to the public - so it’s an amazing opportunity to open up an historic part of the city that has never been seen before.

“The arches will bring an interesting and vibrant new dimension to our New Waverley development, which is now progressing on all fronts. We are now speaking to a wide range of potential occupiers but want to see them converted into bars, cafés, restaurants and independent niche retailers - as well as providing distinctive venues for arts events and food markets. This will bring tremendous energy to the area, linking closely to both the Royal Mile

and the new public square which lies at the heart of the development.”

Because of the original vaulted bridge design, each one of the 19 arches gradually rises in height, with 15 being tall enough for public use, and most offering dramatic double-height arched ceilings. The largest ‘flagship’ arch will be designed over three levels, and will be crowned with a rooftop terrace with sweeping views over Waverley Valley.

Work on the arches will start in the summer, with the project targeted for completion prior to Christmas.

Robertson target new sectors with growing civil engineering business Robertson Group, the integrated infrastructure, support services and construction group, continues to diversify into new sectors such as flood alleviation, bridge construction and marine work, due to the continued success of its civil engineering business.

Robertson Civil Engineering, which was established in November 2012, has completed a number of major contracts including the £7M Halbeath Park and Ride project, a £4M Legacy 2014 land remediation scheme at Cuningar Loop and, most recently, the first flood alleviation project in the Group’s history.

In the last year alone the civil engineering business has doubled its turnover and trebled its staff numbers, bringing together a highly experienced team with a wealth of practical knowledge across a variety of sectors.

Tony Fry, a Civil Engineer, joined as Managing Director of Robertson Civil Engineering in January 2014 to develop the business into an operating civil engineering unit with the capability to provide a quality service throughout Scotland and the North of England. He says the business, which has recently joined CECA (Scotland), is in a strong position after completing the second year of its five-year growth strategy.

He said: “Although we are a relatively new business, in a short space of time we have been able to build an exceptional team with a wealth of experience in sectors that are new to the wider Robertson Group. The depth and breadth of practical knowledge present within our civils business means we have the capability to undertake a diverse range of heavy civil engineering contracts. This is reflected in the number and variety of projects we have recently won. Our challenge is making the wider industry aware of this new capability within the Robertson Group.”

Current projects include the construction of a new substation and HV ring main within RAF Lossiemouth, a contract that involved extensive directional drilling beneath operational runways and taxiways; a major urban regeneration project in Pennywell, Edinburgh; the construction of a new pedestrian footbridge across the River Clyde; and a bulk earthworks and coastal protection scheme in Fife.

The Company will launch an ICE-accredited graduate training scheme later this year and intends to take on a number of modern apprentices to encourage young people into the industry, which is on the cusp, he says, of a major skills shortage.

Better future planning for Scottish towns and cities made possible by Stirling experts Scottish planners and the public alike can take ownership over their towns and cities thanks to an online resource developed by University of Stirling experts.

Understanding Scottish Places (USP) is an interactive website which enables residents and planners to compare and contrast a range of data on all Scotland’s 479 towns and cities.

It contains 36,000 pieces of searchable data including health, education and jobs statistics, whilst the number of shops and registered charities are made public for the first time.

The online tool has been compiled by a consortium comprising the University of Stirling; the Carnegie UK Trust; Scotland’s Towns Partnerships and the Centre for Local Economic Strategies (CLES).

Research Fellow Anne Findlay and Professor Leigh Sparks of the University’s Institute for Retail Studies developed the typology at the heart of USP, and sourced and analysed data.

Professor Sparks said: “This unique Scotland-wide resource is of huge significance for anyone, from policy makers to business owners, wishing to improve their town and town centre.

“It is the first time we have an understanding, on a consistent and comparable basis, of what Scottish

towns look like. Questions such as how our towns interact within a network, whether residents travel far to study or if services are provided to non-residents, can be addressed with the data provided.

“This invaluable tool will help stakeholders better understand the functions of our towns and cities, and will be a great springboard for developing future policies and plans which serve to strengthen Scotland’s places.”

Co-funded by Carnegie UK and the Scottish Government, USP has resulted from the 2013 Scottish Government’s Town Centre Action Plan.

Martyn Evans, Chief Executive of the Carnegie UK Trust, said: “USP is a valuable tool for all of those invested in making our towns better places to live. It recognises that different places have different needs, and require different services and resources.”

Visit Understanding Scottish Places (USP) at: www.usp.scot

11

BS NEWS

Infrastructure plans submitted for new community of Grandhome A planning application has been lodged for the infrastructure that will support the creation of the first neighbourhood within the new community of Grandhome on the north-west edge of Aberdeen.

The application to Aberdeen City Council seeks permission to construct the key roads, utilities, strategic drainage and landscaping that will provide the framework for the building of the first 650 homes, in a neighbourhood to be known as Laverock Braes.

Laverock Braes will be a mixed-use neighbourhood, containing shops and business space for local people as well as a public square and a multi-purpose community hall. Davidston Square is designed to be the focal point for the local community and will provide high quality public space to frame Davidston Hall, which has been designed by

12

award winning Edinburgh-based practice Reiach and Hall Architects.

Subject to receiving the necessary consents from the council, infrastructure works will get underway on-site in August this year.

In March, The Grandhome Trust announced that three housebuilders - Bancon Homes, Cala Homes and Dandara - had been selected to deliver Laverock Braes, which will be built over the next four years. The homes for the first neighbourhood will be subject to a separate planning application later this year.

Bruce Smith, a Trustee of The Grandhome Trust, said: “The proposals for Laverock Braes are in accordance with the broader design objectives for Grandhome and underline our absolute commitment to maintaining quality

from design through to delivery.

“In contrast to one size-fits-all developments where all the streets feel the same, Grandhome incorporates a different range of paths, lanes, minor streets, main streets and high streets that would normally only be found in a more traditional community that has evolved over time. This approach helps to create a stronger sense of place.

“It is this attention to detail from the outset, drawing on the collective experience of an award winning design team, that will ensure that we meet our aim of creating a new community that sets new standards for urban development in Scotland and, as an outstanding environment in which to live and work, contributes to the long term prosperity of the city and surrounding region.”

Work to begin on £8.9M Engine Shed project Historic Scotland’s landmark £8.9M Engine Shed project in Forthside, Stirling, takes another step closer to being realised, with the appointment of contractor, Esh Border Construction.

The construction phase will see the transformation of an unused building into a world-leading education centre for building conservation in Scotland, creating and delivering educational resources and training on traditional buildings and materials.

As well as providing a centre of excellence for those already operating in the sector, it will also provide the opportunity for sharing expertise through the creation of a central ‘knowledge hub’ offering an opportunity to engage members of the public with conservation and heritage through a variety of events, exhibitions and activities.

The Chair of Historic Environment Scotland, Jane Ryder, along with other members of the Board, toured the Engine Shed site and commented: “This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both the Engine Shed and Scotland’s wider heritage sector.

“The is made doubly special in a year which will also see the new body Historic Environment Scotland take on its role, charged with caring for and promoting our nation’s historic environment for the benefit of both current and future generations to come.”

David Mitchell, Director of Conservation at Historic Scotland, added: “The Engine Shed is set to become a leading hub for building conservation on both a national and international level. Our aspiration is to create a place that anyone with an interest in traditional buildings, skills and materials will be able to enjoy. Our cutting edge science and digital documentation work will mix with centuries old skills, demonstrating that both have a role to play in the future. A wide range of education and training will be offered from a new postgraduate level qualification in technical conservation to activities for the next generation of conservation enthusiasts.

“We want to demonstrate the benefits of traditional forms of construction and their continued potential for economic growth and we’re pleased that Esh Border Construction will be working with us over the coming year, helping to deliver the Engine Shed project.”

John Moore, Construction Director for Esh Border Construction in Scotland, said: “This is a really exciting project for Esh Border Construction to be involved in and is exactly the kind of challenge we love to take on. There is a massive emphasis here on economic and regeneration objectives, which goes hand-in-hand with Esh Border’s focus of adding value in the communities where we operate.

“Furthermore, we have been energised

by the enthusiasm that has been shown

by Historic Scotland in bringing the Engine Shed to fruition and hope to maintain that momentum throughout its construction, helping to fully realise its education and outreach ambitions.

“We have no doubt that the centre will excel as an inspiring place of learning for local residents and visitors, that will serve to celebrate and preserve Scotland’s rich built heritage, and we are very proud to be part of it.”

The construction phase is due to be complete by summer 2016.

13

BS NEWS

Bancon bags highly experienced Managing Director for its construction business Bancon Group has announced the appointment of highly experienced commercial development specialist, Gavin Currie, as Managing Director of its construction business.

The announcement comes as the Aberdeenshire business reports securing new contracts valued at £5M and the completion of £22M of construction work at Mile End School and Aspire in Union Grove.

Currently Commercial Construction Director at Dandara in Aberdeen, Mr Currie will succeed George Parsons, who is retiring from his post after 12 years with Bancon Group.

Mr Currie has 24 years’ construction experience and has been involved in

14

the delivery of major projects across the UK for contractors including Laing, Jarvis, Lilley and Miller Construction.

He was Retail Project Manager on the Millennium Dome in London, Construction Manager at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh, and Project Director on the Elements shopping centre, Livingston.

John Irvine, Chief Executive of Bancon Group, said: “With a wealth of experience, particularly on projects of national significance, Gavin is an excellent appointment for our construction business which is currently very healthy across the North-East where we have a reputation for delivering prestigious construction projects.”

Bancon Construction, based at Crathes in Royal Deeside, is one of Scotland’s best-established and most respected construction companies, with turnover of £60M and 300 employees. The firm operates from maintenance and specialist works through to major multi-million pound projects. Its clients include healthcare, leisure and hotel, education, retail, commercial, industrial and residential property organisations, as well as central and local government.

17 suppliers win places on materials deal for Scottish housing sector Wolseley, Jewson, Grafton Group, and Edmundson are among 17 suppliers that have secured spots on a large-scale materials framework that has been designed specifically for social landlords in Scotland.

The framework has been developed by PfH Scotland - a procurement consortium of nearly 50 housing organisations that collectively manage 60% of Scotland’s social housing stock.

The deal consists of ten national lots, allowing any housing association, cooperative or local authority housing department in Scotland to choose from tens of thousands of aids and adaptations, building materials, plumbing and heating materials, gas spares, renewable products, tiles, electrical items, stair lifts, tool and plant hire and maintenance services from national and local merchants.

For a large proportion of Scottish housing providers, buying materials for new

build or repair and maintenance projects accounts for over half their total spend.

This new framework has been designed to ensure strong local and national coverage. Appointed merchants have branches right across the country, ensuring that housing providers from all over Scotland can access materials easily.

The new deal will also guarantee stock supply, meaning that Scottish landlords are not exposed to the regional shortages and price increases that many have recently experienced. Member housing organisations will be prioritised by merchants and stock sourced from across the UK to meet deadlines and demand.

Prices on the new framework are set either quarterly or annually and if suppliers increase prices then PfH Scotland will assist landlords to obtain justification and manage the impact. This process also helps suppliers as the evidence they present to justify price rises often

helps landlords to see that there are genuine reasons behind cost increases.

Steve Malone, Managing Director of PfH Scotland, said: “Materials represents a huge spend area for social landlords and we’ve worked closely with merchants and manufacturers to create a framework that will offer strong geographic coverage to landlords and the opportunity to help them increase value for money so they can improve the service they provide to tenants. However, we also wanted the deal to work well for suppliers. There are examples of merchants on our previous deals seeing spend grow from nothing to £10M in just five years. This new deal brings added flexibility and security for both suppliers and social landlords.”

15

BS COMMENT

Foundation defects under the spotlight Marc Separovic, NHBC Technical Projects Manager Foundation claims are relatively low in volume but have an extremely high impact, not just in financial costs, but also in terms of disruption to home owners and negative impact on industry reputation. Foundations perform a critical structural function on all buildings and are crucial to the overall performance; an area that should not be over looked.

New statistics show that foundation defects are reducing year on year; in fact properties benefiting from Buildmark cover in 2012 are performing 3 times better (in claims volumes) than properties on cover in 2005. This improvement correlates with risk management changes made by NHBC in the last 10 – 15 years. Some of the most significant changes included the re-write of Chapter 4.2 ‘Building near trees’ of the NHBC Standards, the introduction of a Foundation Depth Calculator and the Foundation Key Stage Inspections.

Although improvements have been made and the volume of foundation claims is reducing, the overall cost remains significantly high. Between 2005 and 2012 there have been approximately 1555 reported foundation claims with a cost of just over £57m. In fact one reported foundation claim this year has cost £600k.

Of the 1555 claims, 1124 claims (72%) at a cost of £35.5m were related to Strip or Trench fill foundations in shrinkable soils near trees. Foundation depths were not in accordance with the design and/or lacked heave precautions resulting in structural problems such as cracking and movement.

It is hard to believe how much influence vegetation can have on soil characteristics, especially shrinkable soils such as clay.

The roots of all vegetation (shrubs or trees) take moisture from the soil to replenish

the water loss from their leaves. In a shrinkable soil this can result in seasonal movements, shrinkage in dry periods and swelling in wet periods, or even with large or dense trees a permanent shrinkage for the lifetime of the vegetation. It is therefore critical that foundations are taken below this zone of influence from vegetation.

To understand the underlying risks of a site an initial assessment and basic investigation should be carried out in accordance with Chapter 4.1 ‘Land quality – managing ground conditions’ of the NHBC Standards. Where trees have been identified, existing, proposed or removed within potentially shrinkable soil, for foundation purposes further investigations should be carried out under the supervision of a consultant or specialist acceptable to NHBC, to confirm consistency, shrinkability of soils and the zone of influence, etc in accordance with Chapter 4.1.

Chapter 4.2 of the NHBC Standards provides guidance on foundation depths and heave precautions when building near trees in shrinkable soils. However, it is important to note that Chapter 4.2 guide to foundation depths are not those at which root activity or zone of influence and ground movement are non-existent but are of a depth that is considered to provide an acceptable level of risk.

To help assess foundation depths and heave precautions when building near trees in a shrinkable soil NHBC also provides the following additional resources – ••The Foundation depth calculator, available on Windows, Apple and Android operating systems, this foundation depth calculator can be downloaded free of charge.

••NHBC Standards Plus - Soil Identification book, Heave Precaution Data Sheets.

03 MK SUB: Shrinkage of clay soils due to moisture extraction from adjacent trees; 15mm stepped superstructure cracking

16

Foundation related claims are an on-going area of concern. Although significant improvements have been made and claim volumes are reducing, the overall cost is still significantly high.

Over the coming months NHBC will be focusing on various foundation related initiatives, some of the high level initiatives include – ••Providing further information on foundation related subjects – risks associated with fill and made ground, design of vibro stone columns, level of site investigations, pile designs, heave precautions.

••An accompanying tree identification app to the existing popular foundation depth calculator ••A new post construction homeowner landscaping guidance pack For any general enquires on foundations, please call our technical helpline on 01908 747384.

Marc Separovic (NHBC Technical Projects Manager)

COMMENT BS

Return on Investment and your personality type: Thinking beyond financial metrics

Michelle LaBrosse, CCPM, PMP®, PMI-ACP, Chief Cheetah and Founder of Cheetah Learning What comes to mind when you think of “Return on Investment?”

For most of us, our mind probably jumps to calculations of costs and revenues.

The end goal, no matter the project, is for the last cell in the spreadsheet to be black or green - not red.

In this month’s Know How Network, we want to encourage you to expand your thinking about ROI. Measuring the ROI for pursuing a goal needs to extend beyond financial metrics. Look at the capabilities you’ve created, the reputation you developed, the insight you’ve gained, and the relationships you’ve nurtured to get the complete picture. Getting a positive ROI on these non-financial metrics has a lot to do with your personality type. Knowing which dimensions of ROI are most productive for you to pursue has to do with your unique strengths and challenges for growing each of your four non-financial sources of capital.

Before we move on to maximizing ROI using the strengths of your personality type, let’s review the five sources of capital.

These are: our financial capital (money you REALLY have - not credit cards!), social capital, knowledge capital, brand capital, and infrastructure capital. Since we’ve all heard plenty about ROI based on financial capital, in this article we’re going to focus on the four sources of non-financial capital.

Depending on your personality type, you will have unique strengths and challenges for using each of these four sources of capital.

Knowing how you can best leverage your strengths and balance out your challenges with each of these sources of capital can

help you much more quickly pursue the goals that are right for you. When you can achieve the goals that are important to you with less effort, in less time, and achieve better results, then you have increased your return on investing the truly most important asset you have: your time.

Below is an example showing my personality type’s strengths (I’m an ENTP) for each of the four types of capital.

So what does all this tell me about increasing the ROI on my projects? Let’s go through an example: one goal I currently have is to sail the Northwest inside passage in six months to a year from today. Which sources of capital will my pursuit of this goal help me develop? Let’s see: Social capital? Not so much, since this a goal I want to pursue on my own. Knowledge capital? Definitely - this goal both builds on my current sailing knowledge and will help me develop my skills in new areas.

I’ll get a great knowledge ROI from this project. Brand capital? Possibly - I’ll gain bragging rights and will be able to make new connections with other people who sail based on this experience. Infrastructure capital? Yes, as pursuing this goal will require me to invest in supplies I’ll need to complete the trip, so I’ll be prepared to take other sailing trips in the future.

Choosing goals and projects based on the strengths of your personality type will help you get the greatest ROI in terms of social, knowledge, brand, infrastructure, and financial capital. You can learn about your own personality type’s strengths

Source of Capital

Strengths

Challenges

Social

Makes friends easily.

Loves to help people.

Finds opportunities for others.

Sometimes forgets to keep in touch.

Can be pushy with ideas.

Knowledge

Broad knowledge in multiple areas.

Good synthesizer across many domains.

Good at communicating information to others.

Gets bored easily and doesn’t go deep enough.

Loses patience with teachers who do not move fast enough.

Brand

Likes to be liked so has a pleasant personality.

People can trust them to share what is on their mind so they know where they stand.

Flexible and prefers to leave options open.

Can get overcommitted with a tendency to over promise and under deliver.

Sometimes can be insensitive to others feelings.

May be hard to pin down on the details – contracts are important to finalize terms.

Infrastructure

Resourceful and good at finding new ways to use what already exists when pushed up against the wall.

Good at acquiring needed tools quickly.

Likes to create new things and can sometimes forget what they already have in place.

Sometimes forgets to do maintenance on tools so they don’t work optimally when needed.

and challenges for growing your sources of capital in our new Cheetah Learning 15 hour online course, Project ROI. About the Author: Michelle LaBrosse, PMP, is an entrepreneurial powerhouse with a penchant for making success easy, fun, and fast. She is the founder of Cheetah Learning, the author of the Cheetah Success Series, and a prolific blogger whose mission is to bring Project Management to the masses.

Cheetah Learning is a virtual company with 100 employees, contractors, and licensees worldwide. To date, more than 50,000 people have become “Cheetahs” using Cheetah Learning’s innovative Project Management and accelerated learning techniques.

Michelle also developed the Cheetah Certified Project Manager (CCPM) program based on Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personality profiling to help students master how to use their unique strengths for learning, doing projects, and negotiating.

CCPM graduates are able to choose the right projects and complete those projects “cheetah fast” based on their personality.

They also learn how to leverage others’ strengths which significantly improves overall project team performance. When an employer has a cadre of CCPMs on staff, they achieve whatever they set out to achieve in record time. This is why over 90% of Cheetah’s clients experience an increase in both profitability and revenue within the first year of retaining Cheetah Learning for their Project Management training needs.

Honoured by the Project Management Institute (PMI®), Cheetah Learning was named Professional Development Provider of the Year at the 2008 PMI® Global Congress. A dynamic keynote speaker and industry thought leader, Michelle is recognized by PMI as one of the 25 Most Influential Women in Project Management in the world.

17

BS COMMENT

Good faith and construction contracts Peter Sheridan, Partner, Sheridan Gold LLP In a recent article I referred to three recent cases (Yam Seng (2013), Emirates Trading (2014) and Bristol Groundschool v Intelligent Data Capture (2014)) in which it was decided that commercial contracts were, because of the factual background and the parties’ intentions on the facts of those cases, subject to an implied obligation of good faith.

Good faith as an implied obligation has even more recently been considered in further cases: Myers v Kestrel Acquisitions (2015) (found not to apply to a power to amend loan notes), D&G Cars v Essex Police Authority (2015) and MSC Mediterranean Shipping v Cottonex (2015). In the latter case, it was held by Leggatt J (the same judge as in Yam Seng) that a decision whether to accept a repudiatory breach of contract (so as to bring the contract to an end) is to be taken in good faith.

The Yam Seng, Emirates Trading, Bristol Groundschool and D&G Cars cases concerned “relational” contracts, that is contracts involving a long-term relationship to which the parties make a substantial commitment. This aspect of the decisions raises interesting questions as to the significance of these recent developments for construction contracts.

Where the contract in question is silent as to good faith and related concepts such as co-operation, collaboration, these cases make it more likely that there may be an implied obligation of good faith.

However, the new concept of an implied obligation of good faith is sensitive to context and the factual background will differ from case to case. These cases lay down no principle of general application.

One can see though that if parties form a joint venture to carry out construction works or enter into long-term construction contracts, the context may be such as to require honest conduct and (possibly) further conduct of a “fair dealing” nature.

Conversely, if the contract does contain a relevant express term, the likely effect is to exclude the implication of a general obligation of good faith. This is because the parties are likely to be taken to have

18

addressed the issue sufficiently. For example, the standard form NEC3 contains an express obligation to act “in a spirit of mutual trust and co-operation”. It is unlikely that a further obligation to act in good faith would be implied. The parties could have included an express obligation of good faith but are likely to be taken to have considered this and to have opted instead for the different NEC3 obligation.

To some extent, the wording may be aspirational rather than obligatory, as words such as “spirit” and “mutual trust” are deliberately vague and not the usual language of contractual obligations. It is likely though that the courts would try to give them some practical effect.

If the contract contains an express obligation of good faith, the courts will normally give effect to such a provision.

The JCT standard form now has an optional provision at Schedule 8 under the heading “collaborative working”, which imposes an obligation on the parties to “work with each other and with other project team members in a co-operative and collaborative manner, in good faith and in a spirit of trust and respect”. This provision accordingly goes further than the NEC3 provision and expressly requires good faith, as well as other matters. However, it is not imbedded in the core clauses as in NEC3 but is an option, which means it is often not included in the contract.

In most construction contracts, there will be co-operation obligations, which arise from the nature of the relationship, as a matter either of construing the express obligations or as implied terms. There are for example cases about steps the employer must take so as not to hinder a contractor obliged to complete by a date.

The inclusion of a co-operation obligation in NEC3 and the JCT optional provision are therefore not particularly innovative, although the express obligation may be wider than the obligations recognised in case law. The JCT provision, for example, may go further in referring to the manner in which parties work with each other.

Where there is a good faith or similar

obligation governing the relationship, this will not of itself detract from a clear contractual right or obligation elsewhere. For example, if it is clear that notice is a condition precedent to a claim for a compensation event or for loss and expense, then a claim will still normally fail for lack of notice.

For more information, contact Peter Sheridan Partner at Sheridan Gold LLP T: 01737 735088 E: psheridan@sheridangold.co.uk www.sheridangold.co.uk

Peter Sheridan

COMMENT BS

The pitfalls of basement conversions Pauline Lepissier, Thomas Eggar LLP The TCC has handed down a decision in Mr Edward Goldswain and Ms Jacqueline Hale v Beltec Limited (t/a BCS Consulting) and AIMS Plumbing & Building Services [2015] EWHC 556 (TCC), which Mr Justice Akenhead described as “a sad case”.

A firm of engineers was found not liable for the collapse of a house following construction work to convert a cellar, since it was entitled to expect that the contractors would understand its drawings and carry out the works accordingly. The TCC also declined to extend the scope of an engineer’s duty to warn where there could be a danger of works not being carried out safely.

Background Mr Goldwain and Ms Hale (the claimants) retained structural engineers, Beltec Limited (Beltec), to design the conversion of their cellar into living accommodation.

The claimants later retained AIMS Plumbing & Building Services (the contractor) to carry out the works.

However, these were not carried out with the adequate reinforcement or propping, leading to the collapse of the building.

The claimants sued Beltec and the contractor.

Engineers’ responsibility for temporary works Beltec was sued for a failure to exercise reasonable care and skill in providing the structural design for the works. A major area of complaint was whether Beltec should have spelt out more in its drawings, i.e the necessity for propping up and adequate reinforcement.

The judge considered that Beltec was engaged to design the permanent works, with no obligation to supervise or inspect.

It was clear that the temporary works were the responsibility of the contractor.

The conversion of basements has become commonplace in the industry, and the simple conversion required by the claimants is common practice.

Nothing in the documentation produced

by Beltec prevented the contractor from carrying out the works in a reasonably safe manner. Therefore, Beltec was entitled to expect that the contractors would carry out its designs in a reasonably competent manner and not be negligent.

Duty to warn The contractor engaged Beltec to carry out a single site visit to inspect the construction of the first pin. The engineer advised that this had not been done in accordance with Beltec’s design. The claimants relied on this in alleging that Beltec had breached their duty to warn the contractor and the claimants about the shortcomings in the contractor’s work.

The judge considered the authorities and drew the following conclusions: ••That a professional’s duty to warn could only arise within the scope of their contractual duties; ••That it was no more than an aspect of the duty to exercise reasonable care and skill; ••That whether, when and to what extent such a duty would arise, will depend on all the circumstances; ••That such a duty would often arise where there was an obvious and significant danger either to life and limb or to property, but could also arise where the careful professional ought to have known of such a danger; ••That in the latter cases, a Court would be unlikely to find liability merely if at the time the professional sees what is happening, there was only a possibility in the future of some danger.

and Beltec therefore remedied this by providing copies of its designs and explaining them to the contractor. Beltec had no particular duty to warn and it was not negligent in this respect.

Liability of the contractor The contractor played no part in the proceedings and was believed to be insolvent. The judge found that there was an overwhelming probability that it had been negligent. Unfortunately due to the contractor’s financial status, this was of little comfort to the claimants.

Conclusion Engineers will be reassured that the TCC declined to extend the scope of their duty to warn. In the context of the increasing popularity of basement conversions, homeowners should give careful consideration as to whether their contractor has the required expertise to carry out temporary works. If not, appointing a temporary works engineer might just be the difference between “a sad case” and a successful outcome.

Pauline Lépissier, trainee solicitor, Thomas Eggar, LLP

Pauline Lépissier

In the circumstances, during the above site visit, there was no evidence of actual danger as there was little to inspect. Nothing suggested that the engineer should have realised that the contractor was not competent to do the job it had been employed to do.

At the time, there was only evidence that the pin had not been constructed in accordance with Beltec’s designs,

19

BS COMMENT

Are Electric LCV’s a viable solution for the construction industry?

Alternative fuels have come a long way, but sadly still carry with them a black cloud of uncertainty and doubt. The question whether electric LCV’s are really ready to be introduced heavily into the mobile workforce is debatable, they have their benefits but equally – they are not without their challenges.

A focal point is range. The last thing you want to be worrying about is whether your mobile workers are not going to make it to the job on time because the van has run out of charge. Not only this, but questions have been raised by many regarding the existing infrastructure and availability of charging points. More and more are being added every day, and according to Zap Map – the UK currently has a total of 8,232. These are however split into slow (seven+ hours to charge) , fast (three - four hours) and rapid – (30 minutes to one hour). Currently there are just over 1,000 rapid charge points in the UK, which is sparse to the say the least.

The concentration of charging points is higher, as you’d expect – within busy cities. This means that if your fleet predominately does city driving, you shouldn’t rule out the EV, and with 2014 seeing an 144% increase in EV registrations – it must be working for some.

The benefits are there for businesses.

You will reduce your running costs and bolster your green credentials, which for many consumers is an incredibly important part of where they give their business. If you’re a larger entity and fall under the Government’s recent Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme – then investing in EV’s could mean the difference between meeting the mandatory requirements and not.

The biggest consideration is going to be if current EV’s on the market are fit for purpose. There are only all electric light commercials currently available, with no larger vans currently on the market.

Range of electric LCV’s can be significantly lessened by load weight, driving style and even the weather (the lithium ion batteries used in electric vehicles do not

20

fare well in cold conditions.) So if you do require your mobile workforce to be hauling equipment, tools and generally taking maximum advantage of the vehicles load capacity – you may struggle.

There are of course certain tax benefits to running zero emissions vehicles; the Government offers you an EV grant for both cars and vans – 35% off the cost of a car (up to £5,000) and 20% off the total cost off a van (up to £8,000). This is for the full cost of the vehicle (purchase price paid) for the basic vehicle, including number plates, vehicle excise duty and VAT. The fleet benefits include reduced running costs, absolutely no road fund license needs to be paid, and company car drivers can enjoy zero benefit-in-kind taxation as well as zero tailpipe emissions. It’s been reported that you could save up to £800 in fuel a year by switching to electric, which

when added to all the other savings – it can start to look like an attractive package.

Electric LCV’s may be viable for those in cities who have the infrastructure ready to meet the demands of construction.

Certainly electric cars are have already shown us that challenges are there to be overcome, and with BMW recently releasing their critically acclaimed i8 – the image that the electric vehicle is not viable is slowly being washed away.

About Nickie Brooks – Alternative Route Finance.

Nickie Brooks is the Director for Alternative Route Finance, a vehicle leasing and fleet consultancy company. She has over 35 years’ experience in all things fleet. The company is proud to offer a bespoke service, irrespective of fleet size.

COMMENT BS

TomTom Telematics

Giles Margerison, Director UK & Ireland for TomTom Telematics, considers how telematics technology can help he construction sector tackle its environmental challenges.

A government and industry strategy to improve sustainability in the construction sector saw the Strategy Forum set targets in 2010 for reducing carbon emission by 200,000 tonnes a year.

Reports suggest however that the industry has failed to meet these targets and that more needs to be done.

Construction companies can ill-afford to ignore the fact that an environmental policy will invariably prove to also be a financially beneficial one. An investment in improving environmental sustainability makes sound business sense.

Rising energy and building materials costs are putting firms under increasing financial pressure but cutting energy consumption can have a significant impact on improving margins. This is particularly true of the construction vehicle fleet.

Regardless of the size, nature and makeup of a fleet, a focus on how vehicles are used can deliver immediate green results. It is possible to minimise the financial and environmental cost burden of fuel consumption as a variable overhead and achieve substantial bottom-line savings that might otherwise have to be recovered through an increase in prices, or through budget cuts elsewhere.

Implementation of smart vehicle allocation and scheduling is a perfect start for firms across the construction supply chain, helping reduce overall mileage and carbon footprint. Dispatching the most appropriate workers to jobs requires accurate management information. This will range from assessing the urgency and priority of jobs to the location of employees and traffic flow en route.

Advanced fleet management systems, which combine tracking, navigation and live traffic information, enable managers to make decisions by monitoring vehicle locations, movements and driver performance. Jobs can then be allocated to the most appropriate field operative based on who will arrive quickest. The optimal route may not necessarily be the shortest but will be the one which minimises fuel usage, idling and time spent on the road.

According to multi-stake holder

organisation Constructing Excellence, around ten per cent of the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions are associated with not only the manufacture of construction materials and the construction process but also their transportation.

More effective fleet and route planning has consequently been a key goal for companies such as Hope Construction Materials to maximise efficiency.

The construction materials supplier has integrated TomTom Telematics’ WEBLFEET platform with enterprise resource planning (ERP) software SAP, allowing the company to analyse data such as time spent at its depots, time spent on its customers’ sites, vehicle location and expected journey durations.

Historic road-use data can also be analysed to avoid wasted mileage, while drivers are able to avoid congestion by using live traffic information provided by navigation devices.

Coupled with smart routing, factoring in not only congestion but also traffic lights, roundabouts and other obstacles, this can mean journey time savings of up to 15% – and further marked emission reductions.

Hope Construction expects more efficient routing from its technology investment to cut miles out of drivers’ journeys greatly reducing fuel consumption and its carbon footprint.

Poorly maintained vehicles can also have a significant impact upon environmental efficiency. According to the UK’s Department for Transport fuel consumption can increase by as much as ten per cent with incorrectly inflated tyres, six per cent with misaligned wheels and a further ten per cent with clogged air filters or outof-tune engines. Telematics platforms can provide insight into how vehicles are performing by reporting trouble codes directly from their engines. If a vehicle is low on oil or has an engine fault, management can be immediately notified to ensure problems are quickly fixed.

Furthermore, telematics technology can be used to tap into vehicle diagnostics to provide in-depth analysis into each employee’s driving style, based on key elements of efficient driving, such

as speeding, idling, fuel consumption and even harsh steering or braking.

Engine idling is a particularly costly problem for the construction sector but with such insights, staff can be rewarded for good performance with training targeted at those who require it most. Employees can even be empowered to correct poor driving style on the move, through real-time feedback on driving style via their in-vehicle navigation devices.

As firms look safeguard their reputations and financial futures, telematics offers a logical option to improve environmental sustainability through better management of fleet operations.

Giles Margerison

21

BS COMMENT

Has traditional marketing had its day?

Benjamin Dyer, CEO of Powered Now I sympathise with the construction industry.

When we were talking to business angels about potentially investing in our start-up technology company, which targets the building sector, the level of ignorance and prejudice we encountered was appalling.

We tried to explain that this was a multi-tens of billions pound industry, employing millions, but the investors seemed to be stuck on the wolfwhistling, black market caricature.

But in one area they did seem to have a point. Of all the major industries, construction is arguably the one with the lowest technology penetration, despite some honourable exceptions.

And when it comes to marketing using technology, there is still some way to go.

The danger of the old It’s very easy to stick to old methods, but it’s dangerous.

The music industry, and now the newspapers, have tried to keep their old business models going, and have ended up being massacred, with the major spoils being shared between brash new startups. That’s less likely in construction, however this doesn’t mean that there is no threat, particularly to mid-size companies. James Chandler of Chandler Building on the Isle of Wight, puts it this way: “You can’t ignore technology, even in the building trade. Builders that want to be successful must move on.”

The majority of the population in the UK and an ever increasing chunk of the world population have smartphones.

Where people used to buy a paper, look in the library or consult an industry publication, they now turn to Google.

If you are a large house builder, you can maybe still afford billboard, radio or TV advertising, but that’s out of the reach of most anyway and on a gently declining ramp.

More and more people are spending their leisure time with YouTube, online games, Snapchat and on-demand TV over the internet. The majority may be younger, but there is only one direction of travel. These are all leisure activities, but they also have a huge influence on

22

business behaviour over time. People forget that Microsoft was once an upstart supplying ’toy’ PCs, but has gone on to dominate the corporate space.

It’s what works that counts Being at the bleeding edge of technology just for its own sake is not important.

What is important is what works.

The rise of the internet that has altered the landscape. Construction businesses, like most other industries, still put huge store on trusted relationships, but even here things are changing.

Face-to-face selling remains vital, but you must remember how much background research people will also do on you to complement what happens in person, e.g. using LinkedIn, so ensure your personal and company profiles are current.

Even for the largest businesses, the web can still generate leads. To do that. It’s not just about the content of the site, it’s about ranking highly for the most searched for phrases. This is a whole science in itself (called Search Engine Optimisation) and a full article could be penned on the subject.

Benjamin Dyer

It is critical to have a convincing website that showcases the key strengths and services of your business, carefully presented to not come across as tedious corporate musak. That’s because prospects will use your site to get a feel before they meet, or sometimes even agree to meet, your sales person. And if you haven’t put the effort in, you can be sure that your competitors have.

Incidentally, that’s one advantage of the internet, where you can flatter your competitors by pinching all of their best ideas, while never breaking copyright laws.

Make your choice Things are changing all of the time, and it pays to keep up. There are lots of new technology ideas around, not least in marketing, and effort needs to be expended in tracking them, and implementing the best.

In construction, just like every other industry “No pain, no gain” is a true adage.

COMMENT BS

CDM 2015

How will the changes affect the construction industry?

The new Construction (Design and Management) Regulations brought in at the start of April this year look set to introduce a number of changes to the industry when the transitional period is complete in October 2015. Here, we highlight how the construction industry will be affected by the changes.

Definition of the Client The new regulations have slightly realigned which parties can fall under the title of ‘Client’. The new regulations determine that all clients who are receiving construction work which does not further their business interests should be referred to as a ‘Domestic Client’. This brings the rights and responsibilities of non-profit organisations and charities in line with homeowners rather than for-profit business owners.

Definition of Pre-Construction Phase The redefined pre-construction phase can now overlap with the construction phase – extending until all design and preparatory or design work is completed.

Increased Client Duties The CDM 2015 has increased the responsibilities and duties of the client. The client is now responsible for ensuring suitable arrangements for the management of the project are completed. The client must also ensure that a contractor has drawn up a suitable and substantial construction phase plan.

The new regulations also dictate that the client must ensure that the principle designer has prepared a sufficient health and safety file for the project.

Appointment of Principle Contractor and Principle Designer CDM 2015 also includes more clearly defined regulations for appointing the principle contractor and principle director – necessitating the latter is appointed at the very beginning of all design work, including feasibility.

Reduced Health and Safety Bureaucracy The new regulations have been designed to try and reduce the bureaucracy attached to health and safety rules. Streamlining the process – the HSE hopes the new regulations will reduce the drain on funds and time.

Paul Manchester, Director of Manchester Safety Services, adds: “The new CDM emphasises the importance of genuine safety on construction sites without compromising the quality and accuracy of the reporting.”

Construction Phase Planning The new regulations clearly dictate that the principle designer must assist the principle contractor in the preparation of the construction phase plan. The principle designer must also prepare the project’s health and safety file as the job progresses. However, if the principle designer does not continue until the end of the project, the principle contractor assumes this responsibility.

The principle contractor must liaise with the principle designer throughout the duration of the project – keeping the latter abreast of planning and management of the job.

the construction plan. The new risks specified include burial under earth falls, engulfment in swampland, risk of drowning and falling from a height. Additionally, the regulations stress the importance of health monitoring on sites which potentially put workers at risk of contamination from chemical or biological substances.

The new regulations have also been designed to protect workers who are working near high voltage power lines, in compressed air atmospheres and in wells, underground or in tunnels.

Existing Projects Projects which were not notifiable under the previous CDM and no principle contractor has been appointed, must appoint a principle contractor as soon as practicable after 6 April. The newly-appointed principle contractor must then produce a construction phase plan and a health and safety file.

If the principle contractor has been appointed but the project is due to be completed before the transitional implementation stage concludes on 6 October 2015, there is no requirement to appoint a principle designer. However, if the project is due to continue past this date, a client must appoint a principle designer. If the client does not appoint a principle designer, they will assume all the latter’s responsibilities.

Detailed Risks The new regulations have specified additional risk concerns which must be considered by the principle contractor when developing

23

BS COMMENT

The problem with SuDS is that they are designed by engineers Richard Steel, Technical Director Water and Soils Team, Atmos Consulting The statement in this title may well raise eyebrows, but it is not meant in a derogatory way, just as an observation that so often SuDS are designed simply to manage drainage on site without any consideration for how they could be used to the benefit of the development.

With a little more thought earlier in the design process, for instance, SuDS can be used to improve ecology, introduce an attractive water feature or even to create an amenity such as a venue for water sports.

In reality, however, I have seen many sites where attenuation ponds for a SuDS system is simply an unattractive square hole in the ground; but it doesn’t have to be that way. A well-designed and wellmaintained SuDS can actually add value to the development because people want to live or work around an attractive water feature; a fact reflected in prices for both domestic and commercial property.

Moreover, with the right design approach it is possible to create a feature that ends up being safer and easier to maintain - so developers are missing an opportunity.

We are currently awaiting new guidance from the Government in April which will call for the inclusion of SuDS in every residential development of more than ten homes – so now is certainly the time to think more deeply about the issue.

The new guidelines have been partly inspired by recent floods but also by a desire for greater sustainability of water resources by ensuring as much as possible is put back into the ground. So almost all developments are likely to require some kind of attenuation measures to store water from run-off and achieve green field rates. This attenuation can take the form of an attractive water feature within the development.

It may sound like an additional expense but by considering SuDS right from the very start of the planning and design process developers can use water

24

features to inspire the landscape entire project and make it more attractive and more valuable to the end user.

Good design can also keep maintenance to a minimum, something to think about because so many water features in the past have been poorly designed, have low visual quality and are neglected in the long term due to a lack of understanding and ownership in terms of maintenance.

Certainly it is a much easier to think about effective SuDS early in the master planning process rather than trying to retrofit them into existing plans. Architects might want to consider green corridors between rows of houses, for instance as well as carefully-placed lakes and ponds with the development landscape.

The opportunities are multiple and there has never been a better time for landscape architects and engineers to take a step a back and see the intrinsic benefit of SuDS – they are far more than an unattractive square hole in the ground.

Atmos Consulting is a leading environmental consultancy with a team of multi-disciplinary consultants includes EIA consultants, project managers, ecologists, ornithologists, noise consultants, planners, hydrologists and GIS specialists.

Together the provide expert technical, environmental and planning support and advice to utilities, developers, industry, communities and the public sector throughout the entire project life-cycle from feasibility to implementation.

With offices in Edinburgh, Inverness, North Wales, Norfolk and County Durham, we are strategically located to assist in the efficient delivery of successful projects. www.atmosconsulting.com

Richard Steel

COMMENT BS

The best advice for all invasive plant species Ashfield Japanese Knotweed (AJK) is a new company set up because of the success and popularity of the advice on dealing with invasive species given

by Ashfield Solutions since 2006.

Headed up by Richard Newis, AJK has been created because the independent advice given by the Japanese knotweed section was so popular that it was decided setting up a new company would be the best way of ensuring this success continued.

AJK provides independent advice to anybody affected by invasive species prior to them engaging in the physical work on site.

Rather than getting advice from a contractor who commercially benefits from that advice, customers of AJK know that the advice given will be independent to not only stay within legislation but also ensure the minimum amount of work needed to help meet objectives is undertaken.

Although only Japanese knotweed is in the company name, all invasive species are dealt with, and AJK has recently been procured to survey a large land portfolio in Northern Ireland for all Schedule 9 plant species.

Often, people who have these problems on their land, whether it is a commercial site, industrial, railway or residential property, the trap that people affected fall into is they go directly to contractors for a quote.

People who need to remove invasive species will typically find a quote for a

contractor themselves. This, Richard said, means “people then feel obliged to go with that contractor” because getting two or three other quotes can treble or quadruple costs just to find out where the best value for money lies.

Even then, the customer generally won’t know if the advice given is actually the best way to remove invasive species on a given site.

AJK’s expertise means that although its services are more expensive than one quote, the costs will be easily recovered because the cheapest contractor who provides the best value will be found and more importantly, for the appropriate work that is needed on any client’s site.

It is this approach that Richard wants to change in the industry.

“Yes, clients will have to pay for us, but the savings over the long run will far outweigh the costs of us,” he said.

“Some clients see it as another level of management and it’s about changing that attitude of the industry going straight to the contractor.”

As a member of the Property Care Association (PCA) and their Invasive Species Working Group, AJK can provide detailed advice rather than just general because of its specialist experience in this field.

Advising within all industry sectors, the Company has worked with a number of different council bodies. Given that councils have huge amounts of land

in their respective portfolios and are commonly having to deal with frozen budgets for the year, getting the correct direction for dealing with invasive species is crucial in saving money.

Because of AJK, a site being purchased by a client was reduced in value by £100,000 to allow for the appropriate management of Japanese knotweed.

Original costs provided by a contractor were £4,000, however, this was based on an inappropriate management plan that didn’t meet the client’s objectives.

The stress is taken away from homeowners who may have seen the value of their property drop by half because of knotweed on-site. Thanks to the Company, these worries are alleviated and the client can be sure that thanks to the strategy drawn up and contractors recommended by AJK, the work will be entirely to their requirements and for the best value for money.

AJK has ambitious plans for its future and the more people understand the value of the organisation, the more this type of consultancy will be sought out.

The three-year plan will result in a dedicated member of staff for each sector; residential, commercial, industrial, highways and local authorities.

For more information, please visit www.ashfieldjk.co.uk, or contact Richard Newis on 0845 873 1466.

25

BS COMMENT

Why a buoyant construction industry is fed up with politics Lindsay Whitelaw, CEO of URICA The UK construction industry is feeling confident – the most confident it has felt in a decade. It has recovered strongly since the bleak years of 8/09. So why is it despondent with British politics?

Ahead of the hotly-contested election, the industry said it was favouring the Conservatives, a survey from Glenigan Construction Insight found. However, 71% of respondents said the industry’s needs are not being met by politicians.

The issues the industry cares about most, the survey found, include house building, demand (through schemes like Buy to Let) and skills shortages. Despite a few bumper years, the sector is still not at its 2007 peak – and there are pressing challenges ahead.

While ever-increasing house prices might sound like a good thing for construction, if they push up land values too far they can throttle the industry. What’s more, any perceptions of instability around bubbles could have a negative effect on sentiment.

Meanwhile, a skills shortage has now overtaken materials shortages as the biggest constraint to growth for the industry, according to the Construction Index1. The Index’s survey shows confidence and workloads rising, but with labour shortages in critical areas like bricklayers and quantity surveyors now affecting many firms.

The main contenders The Conservatives are offering the industry support in a few ways: ••Extending the Help to Buy scheme until 2020; ••Introduce the Help to Buy ISA; ••“Unlocking” brownfield sites; ••200,000 new “starter homes” for the under-40s; ••“National Infrastructure Plan”, which promises £100Bn in infrastructure over the next parliament.

Given it is the incumbent leader though, it might be judged by its record – which is mixed to say the least. Home building hit its highest level since the financial crisis last year, and a 25-year high in London2, but the recovery was slow. Critics say the government did too little, too late.

Home building is “moving in the right direction”, but with a lack of urgency, according to the executive director of the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association3.

Labour, meanwhile, the main opposition party, has included a few measures in its manifesto, including:

26

• At least 200,000 new homes built by 2020 (implementing the Lyons Review); • A promise to get “the public sector building again”; • An “Infrastructure commission” to address infrastructure shortages.

The house price trap, the skills gap Why the industry feels its needs are not being met by these promises can perhaps be understood in the context of Britain’s housing market – a big element in overall construction. In England alone, some 240,000 new houses per year are needed to satisfy demand, according to a CBI report4.

“The imbalance between demand and supply of housing in the UK is creating serious economic and social challenges,” the report says.

Indeed, it doesn’t seem far-fetched to attribute the current political ferment – which is creating fears of a fragmented government – in part to the housing situation. One thing the parties don’t disagree on is the need for more houses. While this problem is most acute in London, it stretches to many regions in the UK. Meanwhile, on the skills shortage, recent data from the UK Commission for Employment and Skills implies the construction sector needs to find more than one million new recruits over the 10 year-period from 2012 to 2022, according to the Brickonomics blog. That is a staggering challenge, and will need a concerted government effort to improve the image of the sector and promote it as a career route for young people.

An uphill battle The daunting nature of these challenges paints the parties’ promises as mere tinkering. But a radical overhaul of the British housing market is unlikely from any party – because the banking sector is so exposed to it5. The Bank of England Governor Mark Carney has said the housing market poses the single biggest risk to our future financial stability6.

In this less than perfect world, the Glenigan survey suggests the industry is staking its fortunes on a Conservativeled government – perhaps because of its more traditionally pro-business stance.

After all, higher-than average growth is key to an expanding construction sector.

In 2013, the latest full-year statistics available, the construction industry contributed a whopping £92.4Bn to the UK

economy – just over 6% of output. It offers huge benefits in terms of job creation, as well as the potential for the UK to lead on initiatives like low-carbon construction. Any party that gets into power would do well to listen to its needs and support it where possible – like improving skills, reducing bureaucracy and helping SME construction companies with access to finance.

About Lindsay Whitelaw, CEO of URICA Lindsay is a Scottish businessman who co-founded Artemis, a leading UK-based fund manager that manages an asset base of more than £19bn. He is also Chairman of The Artemis Charitable Foundation and a trustee of the Active Earth Foundation.

About URICA URICA was born out of deep frustration by the banks’ lack of financial innovation for SMEs. Founded in 2012, URICA rewrites the rules by providing SMEs with early cash payment of their invoices without any need for debt, security or personal guarantees. At the same time it provides their customers with a strengthened supply chain and an opportunity for extended credit. It’s not invoice discounting because that’s just debt by another name. Financed by the government via the British Business Bank and RSA, URICA was developed by business people for business people.

1 http://www.theconstructionindex. co.uk/news/view/two-thirds-ofsurveyors-hit-by-skills-shortages 2 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ business-25982505 3 http://www.propertywire.com/ news/europe/uk-new-homebuilding-201405159130.html 4 http://www.cbi.org.uk/ media/2876609/homes-for-growth.pdf 5 http://coppolacomment. blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/thehousing-conundrum.html 6 http://www.cbi.org.uk/ media/2876609/homes-for-growth.pdf

COMMENT BS

Modular building - a better way?

Phil Lidgerton, Buildingmaterials.co.uk Whilst spring and early summer certainly makes getting up the mornings much easier, there’s nothing like an unexpected traffic queue to dampen a person’s spirits.

This morning was a case in point as I waited for the temporary traffic lights to change, which were in situ because a new housing development was being built. It’s a big project and seems to be going up at a relatively fast past, but I did note that these traffic lights were going to be tormenting the traffic for a minimum of eight weeks, whilst the main road is re-modelled.

Obviously coming from the building trade there’s nothing I like more than to see active development taking place, as this is great for the entire industry from material supplier to eventual customer.

However, after mentally making a note to take an alternative route to work in future, I recalled a recent news story about a 57-floor skyscraper called the Mini Sky City.

This skyscraper has been built in China, which was a pre-fab modular development that went up in a mere nineteen working days. That is an astonishing amount of time in anyone’s books and of course is testament to clever design.

Without getting into debates about health and safety and discussions on the proverbial red tape that can occasionally dog our plans in the UK, I do wonder if there are things to be learned from employing such a process more often in Britain? Obviously a lot of the work that went into building the modular sections took place prior to the build, and effectively this does mean nineteen days is more of a headline grabbing number. However, it does show how quickly a project like this can be undertaken and completed if compromises are willing to be made.

One of the main criticisms against modular design, and at least cited in this particular project in China, is its lacking of the bespoke element that people want from their buildings. I suppose the fear is there could be an influx of identikit buildings popping up all over the place, which all look the same. This not only makes the city environment look bland, but also doesn’t allow for the people who use these buildings to be able to form a unique

identity and feel as though they are an individual and not a part of the mass crowd.

Whilst this particular development may suffer criticism, there are a lot of modular designed buildings out there that can and do offer a wonderful level of customisation.

Of course, there are always people who will want something truly unique. These people will always reject modular design as much as they might reject flat-pack furniture. However, there are plenty of companies out there and existing buildings on the market that can fulfil the brief of being singularly exclusive.

Clearly modular design is not for everyone, but in a climate when the consensus is that buildings are not going up either fast enough, or cheaply enough there will always be a market for a stack ‘em high and move them quickly philosophy.

Personally, if modular design can be used to build faster and ultimately more cost effectively, whilst also reducing the time I have to wait at temporary traffic lights, I’m all for it. Ultimately, when it comes to the wider market, price and time will always tell.

Phil Lidgerton is founder of: www.buildingmaterials.co.uk Phil Lidgerton

27

BS EDUCATION

New Ellon Academy nears completion Work is almost complete on the new £30M Ellon Academy Community Campus (EACC) at Cromleybank. In 2009, the Scottish Government outlined a school building plan that included partial funding from Scottish Futures Trust for the new EACC to replace the existing school set up. Construction began in June 2013 and will be completed by August 2015, allowing pupils to begin the new school year in the new facilities.

The need for the relocation of the previous school buildings had become evident due to the out-dated facilities that had come to rely on a substantial number of temporary classrooms to cope with an everincreasing pupil roll. The new development will provide an aesthetically pleasing environment to learn that will inspire pupils

28

to engage with the curriculum all on one purpose-built site, removing the reliance on temporary teaching areas.. There will be more space per pupil and will be fully accessible and equipped with all the latest ICT solutions to ensure the best possible learning opportunity is available to every student. There will also be the capacity to adapt to any future learning requirements and the design of the Academy will ensure that all spaces will support modern learning and teaching methodologies.

The new EACC, with an internal floor area of 18,459 sq m, will be home to 1,200 students and has been designed to include a new three-storey school building, a 25m swimming pool and a 12m learning pool, sports facilities including football and rugby pitches plus a running

track, a college outreach centre, together with upgrades to roads and parking areas for visitors, staff and buses.

Also part of the development will be a new 120m five section span footbridge across the River Ythan with the intention of improving links between the EACC and the town centre.

The Ellon Academy Community Campus is being managed by Aberdeenshire Council and is being delivered as part of the ‘Scotland’s Schools for the future’ programme.

Councillor Jim Gifford, the Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Policy and Resources Committee, said: “This is an exciting project for pupils, parents, teachers and the wider Ellon community.

I am glad that the plans are progressing

on schedule and look forward to seeing the new community campus in 2015.”

The project was designed and specified by the Aberdeenshire Architect Section with post contract detailed design elements being carried out by Halliday Fraser Munro Architects, AECOM Mechanical and Electrical Engineers and Fairhurst Structural Engineers.

Construction works are being carried

by FMP Joint Venture Limited. This is an award winning project management consortium formed in 2005 by Farrans Construction and H & J Martin Ltd. FMP has completed a number of educational projects in Great Britain and Ireland and has been working in Scotland for a number of years, most recently delivering six schools in the Western Isles.

As part of their commitment to community benefits, FMP has undertaken an employment and skills initiative that concentrated on creating opportunities for apprentices, the long-term unemployed, work placements for students and providing educational support activities.

This was performed in partnership with Job Centre Plus, the CITB, Corporate Parenting Programme and the Ellon Academy itself.

As part of this initiative, FMP Project Manager, Paul McClements, delivered a health and safety presentation to almost 100 Ellon Academy students aged between 14 and 15 who were due to go on work experience in various industries where health and safety would be a chief concern on their placements.

Throughout the duration of the

construction works, FMP also provided safety talks to the younger children at local primary schools within the local area emphasising the dangers of the construction works around schools and making pupils aware of the many potential hazards associated with it.

FMP Director Raymond Millar commented: “We are delighted to be included in Aberdeenshire’s capital plan of works and that our first opportunity is the Ellon Academy Community Campus.

It is an outstanding project in a challenging environment. We recognise that this building project is more than just a school, and we are committed to engaging with the wider community as part of the delivery of this first-class facility.”

29

changing the Ellon skyline Works are now in the final stages of construction at the new Ellon Academy and Community Complex, a ÂŁ30m design and build project, which is being delivered through the Aberdeenshire Capital Plan of Works Framework and is due for completion in July 2015.

The project includes the construction of a three storey Academy with a number of sports facilities (25m swimming pool; 12m training pool; 2 football pitches; and 1 rugby pitch) a new 120m 5 section span pedestrian bridge, a further education college outreach facility , and various off-site infrastructure upgrades.

With an internal floor area of 18,459m2, Ellon Academy is one of the largest education facilities to be constructed for Aberdeenshire Council and will be able to accommodate up to 1200 students.

The main building has a steel frame construction throughout and the swimming pool hall has feature glulam beams. The envelope has a mixture of Trespa rainscreen cladding with an integral decorative surface and a Sto rendering system to the main teaching block and sports areas.

The roof is predominantly a Kal-Zip aluminium standing seam roof with a mill finish and large rooflights to the main atriums at the dining area and social spaces. Low level roof areas are finished with a single ply roofing membrane. The windows are composite aluminium/timber double glazed units and the entrance screens/external doors and the swimming pool have polyester powder coated aluminium curtain walling. Brise Soleil solar shading is installed along the south elevation and to the curtain walling to the east elevation of the pool hall.

Ground and upper floors are concrete and have substantial areas of underfloor heating with protective floor screeds.

The internal finishes fit-out comprises proprietary metal stud partitions, suspended ceilings, specialist joinery to the atrium areas, various hard and soft floor coverings of carpet, vinyl, tiling and sports floors, hygienic wall cladding systems and an extensive fixtures, fittings and equipment fit-out.

A full integration of specialist mechanical and electrical services, including two lifts, will serve the new facility.

The project will be a BREEAM certified project and has extensive contractual community engagement requirements.

To fulfil our community engagement commitments, we developed and successfully delivered an Employment and Skills Plan including forming partnerships with the CITB, JobCentrePlus, Corporate Parenting Programme, and Ellon Academy. We focused on specific areas such as apprentices, long term unemployed, leaver care services, work placements, and curriculum support activities.

As we now progress through the final stages of this project, the Farrans team are looking forward to the successful completion and handover of this flagship project to Aberdeenshire Council.

Oakbank Mid Calder Livingston West Lothian EH53 0JS

www.farrans.com linkedin.com/company/farrans-construction facebook.com/Farrans.Construction

01506 882588

@farrans99

Building

Civil Engineering

Healthcare

Homes

experience | expertise | performance

Utilities

BS PROFILE

Robertson Central Based at Robertson House in Stirling’s Castle Business Park, Robertson Central is one of six regionalised construction companies that help make up the infrastructure, support services and construction group Robertson.

The business, which has a proven track record of delivering a diverse range of projects across all industry sectors, is headed up by MD Martin Smith, who moved to Robertson from Miller Construction in 2012.

Already this year, the Robertson team has handed over a number of major projects; these include One, Rutherglen Links, an incredibly environmentally friendly and energy efficient office building for Clyde Gateway. The 33,500sq ft Grade A office space, which is the biggest purpose-built office block ever constructed in Rutherglen, was awarded a BREAAM Excellent rating and A rated Energy Performance Certificate.

This was the second office building project for Clyde Gateway to be completed by Robertson. The first, Albus, at Bridgeton Cross is a three-storey office development of 20,000sq ft suitable for single or multiple occupancy. The JM Architects designed building, which was handed over by Robertson last July, recently won the Architectural Excellence Award at Scottish Property Award 2015.

Following the successful completion of a fit out contract at building nine, a bio-incubator and multi occupancy life science building at Edinburgh’s BioQuarter in 2012, Central has recently completed five fit out contracts for Scottish Enterprise on the site.

Martin Smith, Regional Managing Director for Robertson, explains: “As an established business, we have proven experience in working across every industry sector from education and retail to healthcare, leisure and house building. Not only do we understand the local area in which we operate and have a capability to deliver on time and on budget but we also listen and work with our clients to provide customer-focused solutions.

“We have a number of active sites moving towards completion in the coming months and our order book for the year ahead is looking very positive. We’ve won a

32

variety of projects across the region both via competitive bids and through the hub East Central and Scape frameworks.”

In Fife, the team is currently on-site completing the final stage of a £4.3M care home at Ostler’s Way in Kirkcaldy. This involves the creation of a new 60-bed, five-wing care home, which incorporates a drop-in day centre and a ‘meals on wheels’ facility. The interior layout and fittings are currently taking place on the project, which is on track for a handover in summer 2015.

Martin adds: “A recent addition to our team has been the appointment of David Mackenzie as Business Development Director. David, who is a key figure in the Scottish construction scene, has joined us following an impressive 17 year-career with BAM. David’s remit is to further raise our profile in the central belt and assist our plans for continued growth.”

Working collaboratively with customers to provide best value is a key business focus. One such project where stakeholder and client relationships have been of paramount importance is the £17.5M Heart of the Campus project at Glasgow Caledonian University, which started on-site in June 2014 and is due for completion in the middle of 2016.

Robertson is extending and refurbishing two of GCU’s main buildings: the George Moore and Hamish Wood buildings.

This unique live construction site sees students continuing their studies as the redevelopment is completed around them. The Page/Park design involves the construction of a centralised entrance with an extended front canopy, a lecture hall and conference centre that will seat up to 500 people, a glass pavilion gateway, a new restaurant and fresh green landscaped courtyards.

In the coming weeks the Robertson team are also poised to start on-site at a number of significant education projects including the construction of a new St Margaret’s Primary School, Cowie Nursery and community facilities for Stirling Council.

And will soon begin work to create a new North Uist Primary School - Sgoil Uibhist a Tuath - for Highlands and Islands Council.

Later this year a major project for Perth & Kinross Council to redevelopment Perth

Theatre, which will include a new 225-seat studio performance area and three new creative learning spaces is expected to start on-site. This ambitious project will see the restoration of the B-Listed 460-seat Edwardian theatre auditorium, orchestra pit and the upper circle being reintroduced.

Robertson continues to be involved in a number of house building projects.

A £2.4M development in Clydebank’s Granville Street, which was handed over in August 2013, was not only the first housing project delivered through Scape in Scotland but also the new first new council houses to be built in West Dunbartonshire in a generation. The project was delivered on budget and ahead of time.

In addition to the particular design and construction efficiencies achieved through the Granville Street development, as with all its projects, Robertson placed a large emphasis on delivering community benefits. These included extensive work with more than 750 local primary pupils to discuss health and safety and career prospects; 79 apprentice weeks; and 42 weeks of work experience that included everything from pre-vocational placements through to a 17-week graduate programme for a newly qualified civil engineer.

The Robertson team are currently onsite at the moment continuing to deliver a major urban regeneration project at Pennywell for Urban Union and recently started on another housing project in West Dunbartonshire for Caledonia Housing Association to deliver new affordable homes in Alexandria and Renton.

Looking into 2016, Robertson has a number of major contracts secured.

These include a £30M project to construct a Stirling Care Village, which will colocate five general practices into one building, on the Stirling Community Hospital site, and the creation of a new £18M headquarters for Falkirk Council.

Martin concludes: “Our experienced and established team is gaining recognition in the region not only for our ability to deliver on time and on budget but also for our collaborative and considered approach to a wide range of projects. It’s fair to say that 2015 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet for Robertson Central.”

BS CIVIL

Forth Replacement Crossing Scotland’s biggest transport infrastructure project in a generation is on track to be completed in 2016. Transport Scotland is delivering a new bridge - the Queensferry Crossing - and upgrading the connecting road network on both sides of the Firth of Forth.

Earlier this year Infrastructure Secretary Keith Brown visited the Queensferry Crossing’s north tower to view the latest progress in building the new bridge over the Forth.

Mr Brown announced all three towers now stand over half of their final 210 metre height. Speaking during a visit to the tower’s deck platform, over 60 metres above the waters of the Forth, he praised the expertise and hard work of those building one of the most significant bridge projects underway in the world. He said: “I feel lucky to get such a close look at the tower and deck construction and it’s here that the true size of this structure and the sheer scale of the operation underway to construct the Queensferry Crossing hit home.

“There are now over 1,000 people working on the project in what is a 24 hour operation out on the water. Visiting in the middle of winter reminds us only too well of the harsh and challenging conditions those building the bridge will continue to face before the bridge opens in late 2016.

“The entire scheme has been widely praised as a shining example of good,

34

efficient project management and I am very pleased to report the three main towers now stand over 105 metres meaning they are over half way to their final height of 210 metres. Not only that, but ten per cent of the total bridge deck is now in place either side of the towers.

“At the heart of this Government’s Economic Strategy is the importance of boosting competiveness. Well targeted investment in infrastructure is one of the drivers of growth, and can also help to open up economic opportunities for communities and businesses. The Queensferry Crossing is an excellent example of how Government investment is helping to strengthen the wider Scottish economy.

“It’s not just out in the Forth where excellent progress is being made. Work is now underway to construct the north approach viaduct, where the final bridge will land on the Fife side. Assembly of the southern viaduct deck was completed last year and it will be launched into its final position later this year.

“Constructing and upgrading the connecting roads is a huge job in their own right. In fact there are 11 road bridges being built as part of the new approach road and junction on the south side and the significantly upgraded Ferrytoll junction to the north.

“With all of this work underway on a number of fronts I am very pleased to say that the project continues on

schedule and under budget.”

The Forth Bridge also recently reached the milestone of its 125th anniversary. It celebrated in style with a spectacular fly past recalling one of the most momentous days in the life of the bridge. Transport bosses themed the celebration around the Forth Bridge Raid, which happened a few months before the bridge’s 50th anniversary on 16 October 1939. It was the German Luftwaffe’s first attack on Britain and the first time the RAF’s famous Spitfire engaged the enemy. While the attackers objective was the naval vessels operating from nearby Rosyth, the dogfight took place above the bridge.

Mr Brown said: “Even after 125 years, the Forth Bridge is a working bridge, playing a vital role in Scotland’s transport infrastructure. But, of course, it represents so much more than that alone.

“It is a true icon of Scotland, recognised the world over. It represents a revolutionary feat of Victorian engineering and its unmistakable red girders have been synonymous with Scotland and part of our collective imagination for 125 years.

“There may not be another day quite as dramatic as 16 October 1939 in the life of the Forth Bridge, but we can be sure it will remain a hardworking and majestic icon of Scotland for another 125 years and beyond.”

Bachy Soletanche Limited (BSL) is one of the UK’s leading geotechnical specialists with a reputation for quality and innovation within the field of foundation and underground engineering. BSL is the UK subsidiary of the Soletanche Bachy Group, the world’s largest specialist contractor with a turnover in excess of £1bn, and over 10,000 staff, based in 31 countries.

Along with sister companies Soil Engineering, Vibro Menard and Simplex Westpile, Bachy Soletanche have carried out significant projects in Scotland and have recently been associated with foundation works for the M74 Completion, Scottish Exhibition Centre, M80, A96, Edinburgh Tram, Water of Leith and Elgin Flood Relief Schemes, Rusha Surface mine, Beully to Denny Pilons, and the Forth Replacement Crossing.

Piling for SCC at SECC

As a multi disciplined Specialist Geotechnical contractor, Bachy Soletanche companies carry out a wide range of specialist grouting techniques, site investigation and materials testing, restricted access mini-piling, environmental barriers, ground improvement, high productivity CFA piling, large diameter rotary piling, and heavy duty diaphragm walls.

B U I L D

O N

Piling Bored Pile Walls Diaphragm Walls Anchors

U S

Our current projects encompass some of the most prestigious and ambitious projects currently being undertaken, with our current schedule.

Grouting Environmental Engineering In-house Design Civil Engineering Projects

BSL employ in-house design Engineers, to enable us to offer cost effective, sustainable and innovative foundation solutions for foundations and other Geotechnical Works. BSL also have a proven track record in the delivery of foundation solutions to budget, on programme, and to the required quality standards in a safe and efficient manner.

www.bacsol.co.uk Burscough Burscough

••

Camberley Camberley

••

Normanton Normanton

••

Cork Cork

••

BUILD ON US

Glasgow Glasgow

TECOZAM GROUP is one of the major Spanish Civil Engineering Subcontracting Companies.

Thanks to our highly specialised technical personnel, with a thorough experience in civil engineering projects, we are capable of giving construction solutions to all our clients.

Innovating to join paths

www.tecozam.com 35

BS HOUSING

Distillery Cottages Development The Distillery Cottages Development, Fort William, will see the creation of 21 flats with a variety of floor layouts ranging from one- to three-bedroom units.

The development is a demonstration of The Highland Council’s intention to provide affordable social housing to satisfy the social end economic demand for this type of property.

The site is bordered by North Road (A82), the main road into Fort William on its eastern edge, and by Old Glenlochy Distillery and Distillery Hotel to the south.

The building is organised around an attractive courtyard that works as a hub with access to all ground floor units and stairwells. This central space accommodates shared parking spaces, bin areas and low maintenance shrubs.

The bin storage is located close to the adopted area for convenience with the bins screened by attractive timber fences.

In order to provide an attractive green

36

courtyard while achieving a better parking ratio, some areas will be finished with grasscrete, allowing them to be part of both landscape and parking spaces if required.

All units have generous glazed areas to benefit from solar gains and views.

Large Juliet balconies are planned on the south east and north east elevations to take advantage of the breathtaking views east towards Glen Nevis.

Careful consideration has been given to the design of the building, with the vista along Great North Road and also fitting into context with the two adjacent hotels situated either side of North Road. Both of these buildings are similar in scale and have just one finish for the entire building, which offers a crisp, simple aesthetic with elegant and clean lines. These features were taken into consideration when the project designs were being developed.

External finishes will be of high quality with cream wet dash render and slate

with zinc flashing on the roof. Grey Kingspan metal roof panels will be used on the stairwells and feature dormers to punctuate the roofscape and emulate detailing on the distillery.

Low-level shrubs and trees (both existing and planted) will surround the building and floor layouts will be spacious in accordance with ‘Housing for Varying Needs’ standards.

Main Contractor on the project is James McQueen Building Contractors Ltd. Situated in Crossal on the Isle of Skye, the Company is a family run business with over 75 years experience in the construction industry and specialise in new builds, extensions and renovations.

Providing Architectural services is Bracewell Stirling Consulting. The Practice offers specific expertise in all scales of private and social housing developments.

The overall cost of the project is £1.8M.

EDUCATION BS

FSC Millport Work on a £2.9M state-of-the-art facility for the Field Studies Council (FSC) is due to complete shortly and open its doors in June. FSC Millport is situated on the former marine biological research station on the island of Great Cumbrae in the Firth of Clyde Millport and has been undergoing improvement since being acquired by the FSC in 2014.

The FSC is an environmental education charity that provides informative and enjoyable opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to discover, explore and understand the environment.

Each year, over 140,000 people experience the FSC through their UK wide network of locations. The Charity allows people to learn outside of the classroom with their

school, college or university. These include natural history and art courses. Professional training courses are also provided for environmental professionals and teachers.

The development has seen the upgrading of the existing accommodation for groups with a further increase in capacity. New teaching facilities have been created, alongside the refurbishment of existing areas. Six controlled temperature experimental rooms have been upgraded to enhance research and teaching flexibility. The capacity for high-speed Internet connectivity has also been added. The redevelopment will also see the refurbishment and extending of the Robertson Museum and Aquarium.

The Main Contractor on this project is

Portakabin, who are UK industry leaders in prefabricated, modular and temporary building solutions to suit any need.

The Architect is ARPL Architects.

Established over 40 years ago the Company has a reputation for well-executed projects with a particular emphasis on conservation and sustainability.

These improvements will see the range of courses and opportunities offered by the FSC increased. FSC Chief Executive, Rob Lucas, commented: “We are working hard to develop the centre into the leading marine and outdoor education facility, and these facilities will help us to attract more university and school students as well as providing facilities for a suite of professional development courses.”

37

BS CIVIL

New Hangar for NHV UK at Wick John O’Groats Airport Civilian helicopter operator, NHV UK, has enhanced its helicopter operations and facilities at Wick John O’Groats Airport with a new aircraft storage and maintenance hangar.

NHV UK, which is a part of the global NHV Group, is a fast growing international helicopter service company with contracts all over the world. NHV provides helicopter support for various offshore activities including transporting personnel and freight to and from offshore oil and gas platforms, transporting harbour pilots, winching crew and supplies to wind turbines, HEMS and search and rescue operations.

In 2014, the Company acquired Blueway Group, including DanCopter, Blueway Offshore Norway, Airlift and Vertech Offshore. At present, NHV Group is the only helicopter service provider with presence in all oil and gas producing countries in the North Sea region. The Company also has a

Email: info@rubb.co.uk

38

very strong presence in West Africa.

NHV’s aircraft storage facility from Rubb’s Expeditionary Forces Aircraft Shelter System (EFASS) range features a span width of 20m x 44m long with a closed rear gable end. Access is via a 17.7m wide x 5.5m high Heli-Door. The door is electronically operated via two slow moving helical geared motors, with the capability of emergency hand operation.

The system doesn’t require a base foundation or ramps. The door features locking and safety devices that operate automatically and the door moves up and down at the touch of a button.

The EFASS hangar aluminium framework has been designed to maximise strength, minimise weight and still be robust enough to withstand the most difficult environments. The high quality 6082 T6 structural aluminium is anodised black and steel components are hot dipped galvanised to protect from corrosion.

Tel: +44 191 482 2211

www.rubbuk.com

The tough PVC covering tensioned membrane forms the protective barrier between the environment and the aircraft and equipment inside.

The hangar is clad with double skin insulated fabric panels to accommodate and facilitate HVAC procedures.

Architect on the project was Caithness Design Services.

Colin Hancy, Commercial Manager at NHV UK, said: “Rubb provided various options for consideration – cost, build options, sizes, etc – and managed to use locally based companies where they could, which was very important to the community due to the remoteness of the location. NHV, the airport and the community fully supported the project and are very impressed with the hanger built by Rubb, which will hopefully attract more business to operate from Wick Airport and provide more work for the area too.”

HOUSING BS

Lochalsh & Skye meet housing demand in Portree Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association are currently working hard to address the lack of affordable housing in the Portree area. The latest scheme aimed at addressing this need is Phase VI of the Home Farm development.

Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association was set up in 1983 as an independent non-profit making housing organisation to develop, manage and maintain housing for rent.

Phase VI(a) totals 15 houses and flats,

with the four apartments being built for the Highland Council, whilst Phase VI(b) will see the development of a further 17 houses and flats for rent. This total of 32 units of mixed tenancy will address the current need with greater emphasis placed on the provision of one- and two-bedroom accommodation. This reflects the demand identified from the Highland Housing Register for smaller rented accommodation.

The shape and form of the units is in

keeping with the existing housing stock within the development, albeit of a different design. The use of materials such as wetdash rendered blockwork, untreated larch and concrete roof tiles is also the similar to that of adjacent buildings.

The Main Contractor on this project is Compass Building & Construction Services, whilst the design was created by Wittets Architects.

Proud to have been part of the team involved with these final phases of Home Farm.

Wittets undertake a wide range of services in addition to architect services, including: ●

Feasibility studies: residential, commercial, conservation and regeneration projects

●

Masterplanning: townscapes, harbours and settlements

●

Options appraisal: project review prior to design development

●

www.wittets.co.uk

Planning consultancy: advice on planning policy and procedures

●

Building standards consultancy: advice on building regulations at early pre-application stage

● ●

●

Principal designer CDM health and safety regulations Lead consultant : lead role co-ordinating the services of

Providing architectural services in the North and North West

other consultants

of Scotland to a diverse range of private and corporate

Contract administration: including architect certification for mortgage purposes

●

clients, with offices in Elgin and on the Isle of Skye.

Energy Performance Certification: issue of EPC for new houses

26 Hay Street, Elgin, Moray IV30 1NQ t: 01343 543237 e: sg@wittets.co.uk Riverbank, Broadford, Isle of Skye IV49 9AB t: 01471 822434 e: mw@wittets.co.uk 39

BS EDUCATION

Netherton Primary School Excitement builds in Wishaw, North Lanarkshire, as the second phase of a comprehensive extension to a historic primary school begins to take shape.

Netherton Primary has a rich and storied heritage dating back to 1912 when the School was first built. While the School’s heritage is to be celebrated, the historic nature of the structure provides a familiar challenge. As student intake increases, so too does the demand placed on aging school infrastructure. How do we ensure the lifespan of these culturally significant buildings in the face of such practicalities?

With this in mind, North Lanarkshire Council has opted to modernise Netherton Primary by introducing two purposebuilt extensions. The first phase, which completed in February of this year, involved the construction of an administration wing which now houses a new school office, meeting room, medical facilities and a multiuse teaching space. Currently on-site, Phase II will see the construction of a separate four classroom extension together with a new dining area and kitchen, additional toilet facilities and increased storage capacity.

The extensions themselves seek not to emulate the existing building but to compliment it - revitalizing the structure with a contemporary aesthetic that prioritises natural light and ventilation.

Sustainability is at the very core of the design. From an energy standpoint, historic structures are notoriously inefficient. North Lanarkshire Council has looked to rectify this by introducing solar panels, sun-pipes, underfloor heating, high performance insulation and timber composite windows. This responsible design approach is indicative of the Council’s unwavering commitment to consistently bettering minimum regulations.

There is also a slight regenerative aspect to the project. Minor alterations have been made to the original building with a view to reinstating many of the characterful period features that set the structure apart. Striking arched entryways have been refurbished alongside high ceilings and an original fireplace in the Headteacher’s office, which has now been

40

reintroduced. Though the structure itself of a triumph then. A once beleaguered is not listed, North Lanarkshire Council school building brought headlong into the has strived to preserve the architectural 21st century. That the redevelopment integrity of the building where possible. has essentially future-proofed the historic The redevelopment has proven a logistical structure is commendable. Heritage challenge however. The cramped site buildings should not be seen as disposable, has remained active throughout, while and North Lanarkshire Council’s innovative two temporary structures have had to be approach has reinvigorated the existing removed to allow construction to take place. fabric while providing a high performance Such considerations have necessitated close extension. Once complete in June 2015, collaboration between North Lanarkshire the improved Netherton Primary School Council, Netherton Primary and Main can look forward to a new lease of life.

Contractor, Fleming Buildings. Strict health and safety measures have been put in place to ensure a secure environment with minimal disruption to staff and students.

Of the redevelopment Head Teacher Joanne Smith said: “One hundred and two years on and of course that is something we all take for granted.

The building has fulfilled its promise When you appoint a building contractor, you and once again want to be confident. looks to the future Confident that they will as the old building is deliver what they promise, that what they retained as the core say will happen, does of this exciting new happen and the end-result extension project. is what you intended.

“I am excited about The Fleming Buildings seeing these plans organisation has been managed by experienced construction professionals for being completed, over fifty years. Their expertise and experience permeates every facet of the the building company. There are few situations that, between them, they have not encountered. revitalised and alive with children eager to learn. This project combines the best 23 Auchinloch Road, of the past with the Lenzie, Glasgow, G66 5ET innovation of today and demonstrates Tel: 0141-776-1181 Fax: 0141-775-1394 faith in the future Email: office@fleming-buildings.co.uk of education at www.fleming-buildings.co.uk Netherton Primary.”

Netherton Primary is something

PROFILE BS

Dumfries & Galloway Council Dumfries and Galloway is the third largest region in Scotland. It covers 2,380 square miles and has an estimated population of 148,060, which is approximately 60 people per square mile compared with the Scottish average of 168.

People live mainly in small communities of 4,000 or less or in the countryside.

The biggest town is Dumfries, with an estimated population of 31,630, followed

by Stranraer with an estimated population of 10,290 and Annan with 8,430 people.

Dumfries & Galloway Council has numerous projects underway to regenerate and develop areas within the Council boundaries.

The relocation of the Stena Ferry operations has meant the loss of some traditional activities in Stranraer but the void has provided new potential opportunities.

After extensive local and national consultation and study, Dumfries & Galloway Council and its partners are seeking to reposition Stranraer and Loch Ryan as a distinctive and successful marine leisure destination.

It is hoped that this will attract tourists, create employment, improve the economy and promote the operation of leisure pursuits and commercial craft.

This will be realised in the Stranraer Waterfront Urban Design Strategy and Masterplan, which is a programme of initiatives that will improve the town centre, develop the harbour and redevelop derelict land at the old ferry port.

One of the early regeneration success stories was the renewal of a housing estate in South Central Stranraer. As part of the project, 200 low demand homes were demolished and replaced with approximately 300 new homes for rent and for sale. The housing development programme was supported by a series of wider regeneration projects that focused on making the neighbourhood economically prosperous, socially inclusive and an environmentally vibrant place to live, learn and do business.

Work is also underway on a programme the physical improvement being made of improvement works designed to to the marine area of the waterfront. transform parts of Gretna Green and Councillor Marion McCutcheon, Chair of Springfield. Dumfries and Galloway Wigtown Area Committee, commented: Council’s Capital Programme is funding “I am delighted that this funding has the works at a cost of around £250,000. been approved by the CFF. It was clear The site of the park at Headless Cross from public consultation that a new has been cleared. This is in preparation café as part of the pavilion was a must for the installation of high quality for locals, as well as making the park a paving, new seating and planting. much more viable option for events with Work has also started on a new community a view to boosting local economy.” seating area on Westgill Road. The location of the seating area has been excavated and a new paved area will be created and new seating will be installed along with new trees.

WW WINDOWS CARLISLE LTD Other works to be undertaken include SUPPLIERS & INSTALLERS OF COMMERCIAL the creation of ALUMINIUM WINDOW & DOOR SYSTEMS four new stone CURTAIN WALL SHOPFRONTS & ROOF GLAZING gateways marking the entrances to Gretna Green and Springfield.

Thanks to funding from the Council and the Big Lottery Coastal Communities Fund (CCF), Agnew Park in Stranraer is set to be transformed.

Over £800,000 will be used to revitalise the park with a new café, play equipment, lighting and environmental improvements.

The Agnew Park project will run alongside the WW Windows Carlisle Ltd slipway, boatyard The Old Reading Room, Lancaster Street, Carlisle, CA1 1TF and boatlift schemes and t: 01228 810 404 f: 01228 810 405 will maximise

41

BS PROFILE

Better Regulation The Regulatory Review Group - an independent body responsible for ensuring that regulation is formulated and works well in Scotland - is currently investigating the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 to see whether the regulation is performing as intended.

Building Scotland spoke with Professor Russel Griggs OBE, Chairman of the Regulatory Review Group, about the reasoning behind the review and the importance of reevaluating existing legislature.

Could you provide our readers with an introduction to the Regulatory Review Group (RRG)? What would you describe as being the aims and objectives of the organisation?

The Regulatory Review Group was set up some years ago, back when Jim Wallace was Deputy First Minister. Our work is tied to the five key principles of better regulation mainly that regulation should be transparent, accountable, consistent, proportionate and targeted. Those are principles that everybody works to. RRG is comparable with the regulatory policy committee that looks after regulatory assessment in the UK. We’re independent and our membership shows that. We’re made up of the main business groups - the Confederation of British Industry, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Forum of Private Business and the National Farmers Union of Scotland - but we also have the trade unions, the Scottish Retail Consortium, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland, and a representative from the Competition and Markets Authority.

It’s a very eclectic mix of people.

Our remit is to try and resolve specific problems and regulations that are causing Scottish business concern; to formulate a strategic approach and to develop processes to improve the regulatory landscape; to advise the Scottish Government on all aspects of its Better Regulations policy and agenda; and to act as a truly independent and informed monitor, helping to coordinate, review and judge the Scottish Government and its regulatory agencies against their Better Regulation performance.

Our overall aims are to ensure a culture of betterment in Scotland, for both business and Government, to allow them to work together to create better regulation for all and, in doing so, have Scotland recognised as the leading country in Europe in terms of Better Regulation.

What is your own professional history?

I’m a businessman - I have been all my life. I’ve worked in many industries, from Cushionflor cover to pharmaceuticals, and I ended my private sector life in the industrial textiles area. I then went to work for Scottish Enterprise, where I ran a merchant bank

42

and was Director of Business Development.

I’ve also spent some time living in the USA looking at investment in Scotland.

Since 2000 I have had what is euphemistically called a ‘portfolio life’. I do things like the Regulatory Review Group, and I am currently an Independent External Reviewer to the 13 banks in the UK in terms of the appeals process that they have for small firms that get turned down for lending.

I also sit on the board of a big financial institution. It’s an eclectic mix of things that I do but at heart I’m a businessman and I hope I bring that sensibility to this.

The reason I do all this is because I’m interested in process and regulation is all about process.

What prompted the current review of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005? What factors are being considered as part of this?

One of the things that the Regulatory Review Group do each year is review a piece of legislation to see how it has done.

This year we decided to go back and do our first ‘review of a review’ if I can put it that way. This started in 2008 with Part 3 of the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005. We were contacted by a number of small businesses, mainly B&Bs, about consistent and proportionate enforcement of that new clause in the act. For example, if you lived in St Andrew’s and only rented out your house every time the Open was in town, in some areas you would have been treated as though you ran a permanent bed and breakfast or a hotel. We investigated and found there were real inconsistencies across the Fire and Rescue Service, who at that time were still under individual areas.

In response to this we stressed the need for national consistency of regulation or a central policy official to issue a stronger guideline. The Scottish Government and the Fire and Rescue Service set up a working group to try and resolve those issues.

Then came Jimmy Campbell - the Chief Fire Officer of Fife and Chair of the Community Safety Group. Jimmy came in and really helped us bring it together.

He identified that the problem was a lack of understanding of a risk based approach by fire officers. It therefore became a training issue for the Fire and Rescue Service to understand how to take a risk based approach and what questions to ask. Changing the mindset amongst fire officers would provide a lasting and beneficial effect and would once again put responsibility for compliance where it should lie - with the B&B owners themselves.

After that, guidance was revised and a risk based consistent approach adopted by the Fire and Rescue Service but we thought we’d go back and have another look. We’ve established a sub-group to conduct this review. That includes RRG members as well as personnel from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, fire safety businesses and policy officials from the Scottish Government.

We therefore have a raft of experiences and resources to draw on. We recently issued a questionnaire that ran for six weeks until 6th March and we’re currently in the process of analysing these responses.

These sub-groups are generally not chaired by me - this one is being chaired by Mirren Kelly of COSLA and she’s doing a grand job. While we went back to look at the B&B issue, we’ve expanded the review now to look at how the whole of this part of the Fire (Scotland) Act is working, especially in terms of where people are getting advice from and is it the right advice.

How is the review being conducted?

We’re committed to being an evidence-based group. We go out and ask people first before we do anything. In this particular case we wanted to ask as wide a cross-section of the populace as we could. I can’t remember the total number of questionnaires but many have been sent to a raft of different people to get different views on how risk assessments are carried out. We’ve had good responses but in terms of what that means it’s too early to say.

One of the interesting things is a comment made by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service that they don’t usually get involved in things like this at such an early stage. They’re really pleased to be involved right at the beginning to help formulate the process and they really have positively contributed towards that.

What comes next for the review?

I would hope we would be in a position where we are reporting to ministers by autumn 2015.

How important is it to revisit and re-evaluate past regulations?

Extremely important - we place great emphasis on revisiting. We want to look back at regulation to see if it’s working as intended.

There can be a great difference between the ‘what’ and the ‘how’. We believe that governments generally come in to these things with a good ‘what’. The challenge is that sometimes, as you go through the process you have to put the legislation in place, you end up with the wrong ‘how’.

That’s therefore what we look at.

We’re not a policy formulator - we focus on how legislation is produced and implemented. We don’t focus on whether a particular policy issue is right or wrong.

It’s more a case of, if you are going down this policy line, is what is in place the right solution. The transition of legislation from parliament to implementation and enforcing this by regulator is a critical point in Better Regulation. Understanding if there were any difficulties at this stage is important because if you have an inconsistent view or if the guidance isn’t exact enough people can have very different interpretations. That’s when you start to get into a world of inconsistencies.

On 6th April revised health and safety regulations will apply to all construction and building work. The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 are designed to make it simpler for everyone in your industry to work safely and protect their health. Nearly every building project, including most domestic jobs, will require a construction phase plan before work starts.

CITB is here to help you get to grips with the changes. Our free CDM Wizard app helps you quickly plan straightforward jobs on your mobile or tablet, so you can work safely and manage risks to health, and meet the new requirements. Plus we offer subsidised workshops and free-to-download industry guidance for small businesses.

Do it today and get your safety sorted. Visit citb.co.uk/cdmregs CITB is registered as a charity in England and Wales (Reg No 264289) and in Scotland (Reg No SC044875).

WILL YOU HAVE THE SKILLS TO BE A PRINCIPAL DESIGNER? Industry recognised advice, guidance & training FIND OUT MORE AT

www.aps.org.uk