UK Construction Journal V17N06

V17 N06

A BESPOKE APPROACH TO SECURITY FOR AN EVOLVING SITE

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When your reputation is on the line…

From Car Park to Bench Mark – Hi-Way Services set the standard in Canterbury

By J Hunt Anyone who has visited Canterbury have the city’s sights fixed in their memory – the Cathedral of course, the city wall, medieval cobbled streets and the iconic West Gate Tower.

They are less likely to remember Canterbury’s car parks but is that about to change?

When Canterbury City Council decided that improvements were needed quickly at one of the city’s most visible car parks, Hi-Way Services pulled out all the stops to make the planners vision a reality.

Canterbury City Council’s approach to transport places an emphasis on walking and cycling, while recognising that visitors and shoppers will still want to use their cars. Good quality car parks are therefore important.

North Lane car park is in a prominent location next to the Westgate Tower, one of the city’s historic gateways. And although it provided useful parking at the entrance to the main shopping area, it was far from ideal.

Your reputation is forged by the work you do. The care you take and the attention to detail you demonstrate.

To deliver for your clients you rely on contractors who can be trusted to live up to your promise.

Contractors who are professional, innovative and trustworthy. Contractors who can deliver great results, on time and on budget.

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High Friction

“The car park also had no facilities for cyclists – a problem when your transport strategy stresses the importance of cycling – and, frankly, it looked pretty dull. It didn’t offer the best welcome to the city.

High Friction Surfacing, MMA High Frictions Surfacing, Decorative Surfacing

Cats Eyes

“So we decided improvements were needed, we wanted a riverside walk for pedestrians, a cycle shelter (to be lit at night) and a new layout for the car park spaces. One key requirement was to keep the same number of parking spaces. And we needed the whole job completed in two weeks – quite a challenge.”

Cats Eyes: Halifax, Solar, Glass, Stick On, Temporary, Pedestrian Crossing

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Car Park Bays, Disabled Bays, Parent and Toddler Walk Ways, Crossing Points

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The council’s Senior Transportation Officer, Josh Theobald, explains: “We’re fortunate to have the Great Stour River running through the city, and one section of it is alongside North Lane car park. However, all the parking spaces were on the river side of the car park, so pedestrians had to walk on the grass or leave the riverside, which didn’t fit with our approach of opening up the banks of the river for pedestrians.

Fortunately, Hi-Way Services stepped up to meet that challenge. Hi-Way developed a design that met all the requirements and a team was allocated at short notice to complete the work.

Danny O’Reilly, Contracts Assistant at Hi-Way Services, says: “The initial challenge was squeezing the 1750m2 car park into our very busy programme. Once this was achieved, we were eager to start this prestigious contract. With the car park being surrounded by history, heritage and the tranquillity of the river, we knew the finished result needed to be immaculate. The finish we decided on was a cold applied epoxy and aggregate which really brightens the area and looks much better against the stone of the surrounding buildings.

“My colleagues on site completed the contract in 4 days and the quality of the application was second to none. As a company, we were proud of our operatives and delighted to deliver the contract to our client to their requested standard of works and in the allocated time”.

Josh adds: “The results are fantastic. The car park looks great, lots of people are using the new footpath and cyclists love the shelter. Businesses are also benefitting from increased footfall. Overall, it’s a major improvement to the area and Hi-Way Services did a great job.

They pulled out all the stops with a high quality design and faultless implementation, all delivered professionally and in challenging timescales. A job well done indeed.”

Before the works – a typical dour carpark

Work in Progress

A car park to be proud of, sympathetic to its surroundings

Lane Closures. Road Traffic Management Closures. Stop/Go

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31 Constructing Excellence in Wales

PROFILE 8 32 46 52 53 54 56

Port of Dover Redbridge Borough Council Gentoo Group Thomas Armstrong Group Galliford Try McCarthy & Stone Nicol Thomas

EDUCATION Dulwich College Weydon School Trinity Church of England School Abbotts Hall City of Oxford College

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NHBC - Mike Quinton KR Moeller Associates - Niklas Moeller Sheridan Gold - Peter Sheridan Turley - Michael Gordon Thomas Eggar - Kasia Dickson & Daikin - Martin Passingham

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COMMUNITY 57 Grosvenor Park

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Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

THE PORT OF DOVER’S ONGOING TRANSFORMATION SETS A NEW STANDARD FOR SECURITY Any sort of transformation of infrastructure presents a wide variety of logistical challenges, with site security being just part of a bigger picture. When a site is evolving, with changes happening on a day-to-day basis, it’s essential that security teams are able to accommodate this, in order to ensure the continued safety of both staff and visitors.

However, a fixed, standardised approach to security will simply not prove sufficient during such periods of change, especially at the Port of Dover – Europe’s busiest international roll-on/roll-off ferry port.

With over 13 million customers passing through every year, a high standard of security is essential. The Port of Dover’s longstanding security contractor is G4S which, along with its own Port of Dover Police, keeps the Port safe and secure for the Port community and its millions of customers.

G4S’ work with the Port of Dover began in 2004, with G4S supplying stevedores and security staff to the Port’s cruise business. Later in 2009, G4S won the contract to supply security at the Port of Dover’s eastern docks ferry terminal, bringing in a dedicated specialist to deliver a professional security product that could be seamlessly integrated with the Port’s existing processes.

A BESPOKE APPROACH TO SECURITY FOR AN EVOLVING SITE G4S’in-depth knowledge of the Port of Dover and the unique challenges of port security mean that despite the scale and complexity of this project, the port has been able to maintain its usual high standards of security and – equally importantly – ensure its day-to-day operations continue as normal for the duration of the redevelopment. However, these results did not happen overnight – they are the result of necessary collaboration between G4S and the Port throughout every stage of the process.

With requirements changing on a day-by-day basis, G4S management are often required to mobilise specialist staff at short notice to ensure security and Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) challenges do not create unnecessary disruptions to the development works. For this reason, training and recruitment is an ongoing process at the site, as opposed to a one-off event.

Security at the port has become seamlessly integrated with the management of its facilities, from loading and unloading cargo to serving as porters and baggage handlers for the Port’s customers. All this helps ensure that routine security

procedures do not prevent ships from leaving on time, or create unnecessary disruptions to passengers’ journeys.

This collaborative approach has proved invaluable during the construction works, as security is able to work in parallel with other teams, ensuring that no disruptions are created to existing processes and solutions can be swiftly put in place to meet new challenges, including bringing in extra security staff as and when required.

MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY FOR A GREAT TRAVELLER EXPERIENCE The Port of Dover is rightly renowned for the quality of its customer experience, so it’s essential that the requirements of both security and construction teams do not negatively impact this during a period of such major transformation. Most importantly, staff need to be able to provide customers with the information they need, exactly when they need it.

Naturally, this demands a high level of site knowledge, as well as effective communication between all security personnel, given that the answers to common questions may well change on a regular basis until the transformation of the Port is complete.

For these members of staff to operate effectively, open channels of communication between different teams are essential, as is ensuring that they are equipped with up-to-date skills and information at all times. This is facilitated by the working relationship between the Port and G4S, which must be effective.

MAINTAINING A SMOOTH FLOW OF TRAFFIC One of the primary challenges for the G4S team during the current infrastructure works is managing the flow of traffic, ensuring backlogs are not created. This is a critical task for the efficient running of the Port, which means routine security checks must be both efficient and effective.

The vast majority of the time, searches can be accomplished efficiently. This aspect of G4S’ work at the Port is very much a combination of the right security measures with excellent customer service. As always, the goal is to maintain the highest standards of security while ensuring a great experience for every traveller.

G4S Secure Solutions (UK & I) Ltd Sutton Park House, 15 Carshalton Road,, Sutton Surrey SM1 4LD Tel: 0208 722 2000 www.g4s.com

UKC PROFILE

Port of Dover

The Port of Dover is on a mission to be the best port in the world for the benefit of both its customers and its community Established in 1606, Dover Harbour Board (owner and operator of the Port of Dover) has developed the Port into what has become one of today’s busiest drive-on, drive-off terminals in the world, operating at the heart of North West Europe’s trans-European transport network.

Every year, the Port takes responsibility for more than 13M passengers and 4.8M vehicles travelling through the Port. Vital to the UK’s economic wellbeing, the Port also undertakes other major shipping activities.

It is home to the UK’s second busiest cruise port and has a thriving general cargo operation as well as a top award winning marina and a substantial property portfolio.

It’s a responsibility that is taken seriously and it goes hand-in-hand with the clear commitment to ensuring the port operates professionally, safely and smoothly for all those who use it.

The Port’s globally recognised skills and

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experience are being combined and applied to develop a growing, vibrant and commercially focused business that contributes to the community and to the economic interests of the country.

The long-term objectives of the Port of Dover aim to manage and continually develop its financially and operationally robust and profitable business, improve financial performance within a sound framework, make best use of available capacity, and plan and develop infrastructure to meet the needs of its customers, present and future, and the whole community.

February saw the announcement from the Port of Dover that a major opportunity is being pursued that could be the catalyst for the regeneration of Dover as a whole.

Through the early development of the approved consented footprint in the Western Docks, the Port could create

more than 600 new logistics industry jobs for Dover and safeguard another 140 positions by developing a new cargo terminal and port centric distribution facility.

This will revive the Western Docks, protect long-term port capacity and enable the transformation of the waterfront with the potential creation of a new marina.

Leader of Dover District Council, Councillor Paul Watkins, explained the benefits of the scheme: “Delivering major port development that protects long-term port capacity but delivers jobs and opportunities now whilst creating a catalyst for major regeneration will be a significant boost to the region and shows real commitment to Dover.”

The Port’s vision is an evolution of its earlier master planning proposals and represents a possible way of achieving key benefits of the plan based upon current market conditions and

opportunities within the cargo business.

Delivering such a vision would enable the Port to ensure that it has the essential infrastructure in place to serve its customers in the years ahead with the additional opportunity to increase ferry berth capacity in the Eastern Docks through the transfer of the cargo operation to the west.

George Jenkins, Chairman of Dover Harbour Board, added: “Transforming this part of the Port estate can in turn support the wider transformation agenda, one which sees the Port and town working together, which the Port of Dover is also championing through its Dover waterfront regeneration project with Dover District Council.

“The people of Dover have waited long enough for Dover’s revival. That revival could start right now, breathing life into our Port and into our community.”

The plans to develop the new multimillion pound cargo terminal were widely welcomed by local residents and businesses in the town,

signing up to the shared vision.

Derek Leach, Chairman of the Port and Community Forum, and Dover Society, said: “The Board’s plans were warmly received by the Port and Community Forum with the possibility of several hundred new jobs, a boost to the local economy and the regeneration of the Western Docks area.

“The Board is also looking for the support of the community in delivering the project, which I am sure we shall do in any way possible.”

As well as making good progress within the local community, the popularity of the Port has also continued to increase with the number of customers using the Port growing, particularly its freight customers.

In fact, one notable day in July saw the Port setting a new record for the number of freight vehicles departing through the Port of Dover, handling volumes not seen since before the recession. It saw 5,337 freight vehicles depart for Calais and Dunkirk from Europe’s busiest ferry port, beating the previous record of 5,322 set in 2008. In addition, it was the

third busiest day ever for total numbers, seeing 10,134 freight vehicles handled.

Each year, the Port handles freight worth an estimated £89Bn. Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of Port of Dover, spoke about the importance of continuing to develop the Port: “The value of goods handled is staggering and clearly demonstrates the Port’s importance to the nation and the need for continued and major investment. We are delivering our £85M capital programme to upgrade the Eastern Docks. Now we are looking at ways to protect long term port capacity through our Dover Western Docks Revival vision and must secure additional powers in order to deliver this effectively.

“We have - and continue to develop - the infrastructure and facilities to provide the services which British exporters need.”

The commitment to major investment includes the Traffic Management Improvement (TMI) project, berth refurbishment/replacement programme and major heritage works, all of which continued on page 12 >

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will be supported and enhanced by increasing the Port’s ability to fund such a massive transformation.

Located at the entrance of the Eastern Docks, TMI is transforming the Port of Dover. When completed, it will provide four kilometres of additional lanes to provide a holding facility for 220 freight vehicles, remove bottlenecks in the Port, re-route and intelligently manage traffic flows with variable lane messaging and lane control, reduce congestion on the surrounding

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road network, reduce air pollution and improve the visual impression of the Port.

This will make a significant improvement to the resilience of the Port’s operation, being utilised mainly at peak times when the volume of traffic entering the Port exceeds the capacity of one or more ferry operators at the check-in facility.

By using the new area to hold traffic for particular ferry operators experiencing heavy demand at the check-in facility, the Port will be better able to facilitate

traffic for the remaining ferry operators to reach the check-in facility and be processed for onward transfer to the assembly parks further inside the Port.

Such a large development is phased in order to allow the Port to continue to operate efficiently during the construction period and minimise the impact on customers and the neighbouring community.

Phase I saw the diversion and installation of utility services and rearrangement

of other essential port operational facilities. This work is now complete.

Comprising a further eight phases, a further three have just been completed.

Phase II saw the refurbishment of the ground floor of an existing building inside the Port.

It included the installation of new heating and ventilation systems, new electrical distribution and lighting systems and internal building works.

Demolition work removed a section of

a bridge inside the Port as well as two canopies. The Port was determined to minimise both noise and dust during the use of heavy machinery and all material from the demolition works were transported off site for processing.

Work on Phase II was completed earlier this year.

Phase III, which is also now complete, comprised of a variety of civil engineering and paving works to construct the new improved facilities for the Border

Agencies to select and search car traffic disembarking ferries, while Phase IV included the relocation of operational facilities from the buildings to be demolished to the new facilities.

Work was undertaken at the front of the Port to remove planters, signage and other street furniture. Work on this phase started last autumn and has now finished.

Phase V will see the demolition of the Travel Centre and a control building. The continued on page 16 >

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THE PORT OF DOVER IS AN ICONIC BRITISH LANDMARK AND IS OF STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE TO THE UK’S TRADE WITH EUROPE

When Hyder recently won the contract to work with the Port to develop the detail design for the A20 Junction Improvement Scheme, part of the transformational Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) project, it was the perfect opportunity for the multidisciplinary consultancy to be involved in an infrastructure project that will contribute to the regeneration of the local area and the wider region for years to come.

The A20 scheme, which represents an early and tangible sign of physical progress within DWDR, involves capacity improvements to two junctions on the A20 trunk road in Dover and is a critical part of the plan, supporting both the required access to the proposed new cargo and port centric logistics facilities and to the major waterfront development. Their improvement is part of the Port’s response to managing anticipated future growth and to mitigate any impact on the local road network.

Brian Rechere, Business Director at Hyder said: “We’ve been working with the Port of Dover since 2007 on a range of highways and infrastructure related improvements to the Eastern Docks.

In that time we’ve developed a strong relationship with the Port, a sound understanding of its operations and established a track record for delivery.”

Hyder’s remit on the A20 scheme is to deliver a design accompanied by a works tender package; and to support the client during tender evaluation and award. The design has involved the following disciplines: • Highways • Pavement • Structures • Street Lighting • Traffic Signals • Geotechnics • Cost Management • CDMC Kevin Tapp, Highways Technical Director and Hyder’s Project Manager, said: “On this project we have drawn upon our sound understanding of the Port of Dover and deployed resources familiar to the client team from previous projects. Crucially on this Section 278 project we have been able to use our extensive experience of working on trunk roads and agreeing proposals to the Highways Agency’s satisfaction. ” Hyder has previously provided consultancy services on a number of schemes as part of the Eastern Dock development including the Inbound Border Control Improvements, the Assembly Park Improvements and the transformational Traffic Management Improvements. This latter scheme, which is currently in construction, introduces an extensive freight buffer zone to provide capacity resilience, enhanced efficiency and operational flexibility.

For more information about Hyder’s work at the Port of Dover, please contact Brian Rechere by email at brian.rechere@hyderconsulting.com or call 0203 014 9082.

For more information about Hyder’s marine and ports capability, please contact James Prescott by email at james.prescott@hyderconsulting.com or call 01392 374623.

Follow us on : www.hyderconsulting.com

Excellence in Marine Infrastructure Design

familiar Travel Centre has welcomed millions of passengers to the Port for the past 30 years and its closure and demolition is a key point in the project.

“Freight vehicle numbers have virtually trebled over the past thirty years and we want to create a new welcome for our customers, one that delivers enhanced efficiency, flexibility and fantastic customer service,” Mr Waggott explained.

Work on this phase is now under way and will be completed before the end of the year.

It will be followed by Phase VI which will include civil engineering and paving works to reinstate the areas of the former building as well as constructing some of the new facilities such as the coach drop-off and pick-up areas.

Completion is due early next year.

Phase VII will see the demolition of the remaining part of the bridge deck from Phase II. As with other phases, noise and dust will be minimised and work is scheduled to be finished by June 2015.

The penultimate phase will see civil engineering and paving works for the new traffic routes into the Port and the new temporary holding area.

Finally, civil engineering and paving works will be undertaken, as well as the installation of a remotely controlled variable message signage system.

All project related construction work will be completed in the final three months of 2015.

A major focus on the project is minimising the effects of the project on the local community.

Work is being completed as quickly and efficiently as possible and work is timed to fit in with regular working hours so it doesn’t disturb residents during the evenings and weekends.

Provisions have been made to smooth the running of traffic through the

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Port during construction to minimise any potential traffic congestion.

The depth of the planning process means that stringent contingency plans have also been put together to reduce the possibility and time taken to resolve issues such as unforeseen traffic problems beyond the control of the Port.

The end result of the TMI project will be better traffic management at peak times, reduced congestion on the approach roads to the Port and improved air quality, while making an efficient, safer and more attractive Port of Dover.

Alongside the TMI project is a major berth refurbishment/ replacement project that is delivering a comprehensive programme of berth improvements to ensure that the Port is operating effectively, safety and reliably, and can accommodate the largest ferries using the Port.

Pier E was extended in 2011 and Pier A in 2012. ED3 berth was refurbished in 2012 and ED6

berth was completely replaced in 2013.

The Port is currently refurbishing ED2 berth with ED7 berth to follow in 2015.

Because the Port is home to many historic buildings, significant work is being undertaken to make sure these structures are maintained so that they can both continue to play an important

role in the ongoing operational life of the Port as well as act as a means of celebrating a shared maritime heritage with the local community.

The most significant within the operational areas are located in the Western Docks and consist of the Marine Station building - home to Cruise Terminal One - and the surrounding access structures along with the Admiralty Pier which forms the western arm enclosing Dover Harbour.

This multi-million pound project will repair and improve the station building and its ancillary structures for future generations.

Already under way, the end result will be a safe, secure as well as attractive structure that can serve a range of operational, business and community needs.

Work consists of four main parts. This comprises the Marine Station building that houses Cruise Terminal One and

some local businesses along with parking facilities for cruise passengers; the stair tower situated on Lord Warden Square; the covered walkway and link bridge; the Admiralty Pier Parapet walkway used by the Dover Sea Angling Association and for public access.

The historic Marine Station building, completed in 1914 and the staging post for five million British troops heading off to the western front in World War One, is the largest part of the works. It consists of full re-roofing, including new roofing and roof glazing, steelwork replacement and repairs, brickwork repairs and full redecoration of the roof steelwork internally.

As with the TMI project, work is being carried out in overlapping phases to minimise the impact on current and adjacent uses and a temporary rolling roof structure will be constructed over

part of the building to allow the works to progress without adverse weather effects.

The Marine Station building is being carried out through the whole construction period which started in October 2013 and will continue to early 2015.

Access scaffold has been erected in two phases, with work in three distinct areas being carried out in order to utilise a 60m movable temporary roof to maintain work during any poor weather. The single span rolling roof system being used at the Port is reportedly the largest of its kind to ever be used in this kind of situation.

It is another display by the Port of its commitment to applying the very best skills and experience to deliver the mission of developing a growing and vibrant business that will successfully serve its customers and community for generations to come.

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UKC NEWS

State-of-the-art leisure centre wins RICS national award A state-of-the-art leisure centre in Bristol, featuring extensive use of Technal’s aluminium curtain walling, has received a national award in recognition of its outstanding design and contribution to the local community.

Designed by LA Architects and operated

by Parkwood Leisure for Bristol City Council, the £35M Hengrove Park Leisure Centre was built by Kier Construction on the site of a former airport. The privately financed project is also one of the first centres in the UK with a 50m swimming pool to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating.

The architectural design of the scheme features large areas of Technal curtain walling to give the impression of

‘invisible walls’ – allowing unobstructed views from the interior looking out on to the landscaped central plaza and greater visibility from the outside of the pool and activities inside the centre.

The glazed facades also provide high levels of natural light and a good night time appearance for the building.

Commenting on the curtain walling specification, Manolis Datseris, Project Architect at LA Architects, said: “We have used Technal’s systems on other projects, which we have been very happy with so their products were a logical choice for this scheme. We wanted to achieve a crisp, sharp edge to the curtain walling here and to create a building that is filled with light.

“Our aim was to bring the landscaped

Skanska completes Moorgate Exchange Skanska has completed the striking new commercial development, Moorgate Exchange, for clients BlackRock and CarVal Investors in conjunction with Quadrant Estates.

Covering 12-storeys, the 20,204sq m office building is located next to Moorgate Station. It features six landscaped roof terraces and a green roof with spectacular views of London.

The new development is one of the first in the UK to achieve both BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and LEED Platinum.

These two systems are expected to award the building high scores for its low impact on the environment.

Materials with sustainable properties, such as recycled aggregates in the concrete, were used in the construction process. Recycled rainwater and grey water storage systems have been installed to reduce the amount of potable water used in the toilets and the irrigation system for the ‘living’ walls on the terraces.

Skanska Managing Director, Paul Heather, believes this building, with its excellent green credentials, provides premium office space in the heart of the city. He

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said: “By using technologies such as LED lighting, low energy fan coil units and highly efficient chillers and boilers to create this building, we have ensured that tenants will enjoy low energy consumption and reduced running costs.

“The development is a notable addition to our portfolio of high quality offices in the City, which includes 30 St Mary Axe (the Gherkin), Heron Tower and 6 Bevis Marks, as well as buildings soon to be completed, such as Aldermanbury Square and 100 Cheapside.”

Alongside Skanska, the project team included HKR Architects, client monitoring architects Pringle Brandon Perkins+Will, building services engineer, energy and sustainability consultant Hilson Moran , structural engineer Ramboll, project manager GVA Second London Wall, quantity surveyor Gardiner and Theobald and landscape architect Hyland Edgar Driver.

To deliver this project, Skanska put together a specialist in-house team, combining its skills in design, construction, mechanical and electrical engineering and ceiling installation.

plaza inside the centre by having perimeter walls that are almost transparent, giving a greater feeling of space. We are very happy with the finished effect and the glazing systems are performing well.”

The building envelope also features copper cladding in the central plaza and on the north elevation between the main pool and the teaching pool, to striking effect.

Hengrove Park Leisure Centre is the centrepiece of a major regeneration programme to transform South Bristol.

It was also designed to be sustainable, with its use of grey water, reduced flow rates to conserve water, high standards of air tightness throughout and building materials such as aluminium which have low embodied energy.

ISG delivers United Airlines Terminal 2 projects ISG has successfully completed a series of projects for United Airlines at London Heathrow’s new Terminal 2, The Queen’s Terminal, which was officially opened by Her Majesty The Queen. As part of the Terminal 2 project, ISG assisted with the creation of the 22,000sq ft United Club and United Global First Lounge – the carrier’s only facility of its type in Europe.

The United Club is the first outside the US to feature the new United Club design concept. Customers at the United Club can enjoy the 25-seat fullservice bar and two buffet areas. The Global First Lounge features a wine room, a buffet area and a tea lounge.

Featuring the highest quality materials sourced from across the globe, the lounges include a number of iconic furniture pieces and vintage aviation themed artwork. A contrail design motif features across curved white Corian walls and continues on the glass doors leading to the shower suites.

The Global First Lounge includes a scale replica of the Big Ben clock face produced

by Dent, the original manufacturers of the London landmark at Parliament Square.

Other bespoke elements of the Global First Lounge include a cylindrical private wine room complete with a circular 147 bottle capacity wine tower, custom built and installed by ISG, and a quiet zone with couches and privacy drapes.

Peter Kilby, Divisional Managing Director for ISG’s Hotels, Hospitality and Aviation Division, commented: “ISG has delivered a significant volume of work within Heathrow’s new Terminal 2 building for United Airlines, which includes creating a world class departure facility that provides an international showcase for our high end construction services solutions. The exceptional quality and design ethos underpinning the new departure lounge substantially raises the bar in this premium sector and it is incredibly rewarding to hear the highly positive feedback United Airlines is currently receiving for these impressive new facilities.”

Conamar completes work on John Lewis roof garden Local building and refurbishment specialist, Conamar, has completed work on John Lewis’ new roof garden at its flagship store on Oxford Street.

To celebrate its 150th anniversary this year, John Lewis partnered with Tony Woods – the 2013 winner of the Royal Horticultural Society’s National Young Designer of the Year – to install one of the largest roof gardens in London.

The 750sq m garden space located on the sixth floor of the building, opened in May, and will host a variety of events, including a pop up cinema, sit down restaurant and sports nights.

Conamar was the Main Contractor on the project, completing all works within a six week period. It was responsible for installing the scaffolding around the building, completing the concrete repairs and undertaking the electrical and plumping services, as well as

managing all sub-contractors.

There were a number of associated challenges on this project, including the short time frame and accessibility.

However, the greatest challenge was delivering materials onto the roof, which is located on the sixth floor. In order to manage the delivery of larger materials safely and securely, Conamar had to close side roads around the building, and use a 250 tonne crane to lift materials into place.

Neil Dower, Managing Director at Conamar, said: “The new roof garden has created a unique and contemporary space at John Lewis’ flagship store. It has not only helped celebrate the company’s heritage, but it has also created an important legacy for the future.”

The roof garden houses permanent features, including a band-stand, a fresh juice bar from Joe and the Juice, and a children’s vegetable patch.

Shoreditch Town Hall announces further development plans Artistic Director Nick Giles has announced the next stage of development work at Shoreditch Town Hall.

Since 2012, the town hall has already delivered £450,000 of improvements which have allowed the building to be used fully as a place of public entertainment. This new funding success will contribute towards the next phase of works, which include: ••The reinstallation of 278 permanent seats into the balcony of the venue’s main space, the assembly hall. This will give the hall a seated balcony space for the first time since the 1960s, bringing the overall capacity of the hall to 850 (including stalls).

••Expanding toilet and associated facilities to allow the town hall to operate at a higher licensed capacity.

••Installation of a goods lift at the rear of the building to allow for flat level loading into the assembly hall from Rivington Place.

••Installation of a passenger lift, off the main entrance hall, providing improved access to the assembly hall and committee tooms.

The works are scheduled to take place throughout the forthcoming twelve months, with the seating set for completion in January 2015, toilet and goods lift installation work by the end of February 2015 and passenger lift works complete by the end of August 2015. During this time the building will remain fully operational.

The town hall’s Director, Nick Giles said: “The whole team here is conscious of what an incredible and rare opportunity it is to be developing a remarkable building like the town hall today, in one of the most exciting parts of London. It is why we are also painfully aware of those building related issues that have held it back over recent years. Our capital project is entirely designed to address those issues, and unlock the huge and untapped potential – such as an 850 capacity character auditorium in the centre of Shoreditch – and every phase we are able to complete will have an enormously positive impact on both our artistic and events programme and ultimately our aim of cementing the building as a flagship arts and events venue for East London.”

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CALLSAFE SERVICES LIMITED

OVER 25 YEARS PROVIDING EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT HEALTH AND SAFETY ADVICE AND TRAINING TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AND OTHERS David Carr PgD, FIIRSM, DipSM, RFaPS, Managing Director Callsafe Services Limited. Yardley House, 11 Horsefair, Rugeley, Staffordshire. WS15 2EJ Email: enquiries@callsafe-services.co.uk Web: www.callsafe-services.co.uk

INSTITUTION OF OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH MANAGING SAFELY IN CONSTRUCTION This is the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) Managing Safely course, amended to make the subjects the construction industry, and separately accredited by IOSH. It is highly interactive and is experienced construction health and safety professionals, who also are appointed to projects as CDM coordinator.

Intended for:

Anyone who supervises or manages designers or contractors in the construction and allied industries. Also relevant for client representatives and CDM coordinators.

Course Aims:

To ensure that managers/ supervisors: • Understand their responsibilities for health and safety as an integral part of their construction and other management/supervision roles; • Are able to recognise a sound health and safety management system, including effective construction risk management; • Are able to recognise the key risks in the construction industry and understand the precautions to be taken.

Course Content:

Day 1 • Introduction and Setting Course Objectives • Principles of Good Safety Management • Legal Foundation for Health and Safety • Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide • Safety Management on Construction Projects

Day 2 • Understanding the Legal Framework for Safety and Health at Work • Accident Causation and Accident Prevention • Applying Management Principles to Health and Safety Day 3 Key Legislation, Commonly Occurring Hazards and Their Controls: • The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 • Working time • First aid • Reporting of accidents • Fire • Safety signs and signals • Electricity • Display screen equipment • Manual handling • Chemicals/Hazardous substances • Personal protective equipment • Work equipment and Machinery •

• Effective Communication • Control of Contractors • Training • Course Assessment (A 30 minute test paper, similar in format to mock assessments performed during the course) • Course Discussion and Completion (Including the introduction to the Course Project, which is an inspection and risk assessment performed by the delegates of their workplace. This is performed subsequent to the course and submitted to the course tutor for marking)

Maximum number of course delegates: 16 Public Courses

This course is offered as a public course, for individuals to book and attend.

Course Cost: £800.00 per delegate, plus VAT (Discounts for multiple bookings)

Day 4 Construction Related Legislation, Commonly Occurring Hazards Currently programmed public and Their Controls: courses are: Construction (Design and 23, 24, 25 September and 1 & 2 • • Management) Regulations 2007, October 2014 (Staffordshire) Part 4 In-house Courses • Lifting operations and equipment Noise This course is also offered as • Vibration an in-house course, where an • Lead organisation can book the tutor • Asbestos for the 5 days and the course is • presented within the organisation’s • Pressure systems own premises, This option can • Radiation reduce the course cost and the • Elevated working places travel/accommodation costs where • Safety in earthworks the organisation has a number of • Flammable liquids and gases their staff requiring this training.

• • The construction working environment A lump sum price can be provided for in-house courses.

Day 5 • Human Behaviour in Accident and Ill-Health Prevention

Further details of this, and other, courses can be found at www.callsafe-services.co.uk, or by contacting Gemma Esprey at gemma.esprey@callsafe-services.co.uk or by phone on 01889 577701

UKC NEWS

Construction begins in Cumbria ahead of the first ‘net adventure park’ opening in the UK One of the world’s best sailors and rope experts has arrived in the Lake District to bring his unique adventure play park to the UK. Slides, tunnels, climbing frames, trampolines and bridges – all entirely made of ropes and nets – are being constructed at Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre, to form the new ‘treetop nets’ attraction.

Sitting in between the high ropes course, treetop trek, and Brockhole’s existing playground, the 1,200sq m project will become the 16th ‘net park’ to open in the world, with most others in France.

There are only a small group of Frenchmen skilled to install the equipment,

including the man who came up with the concept, Cedric Chauvaud.

Cedric, who is one of the world’s best sailors and rope experts, said: “It was a mix of things which made me think of doing it. I obviously knew a lot about the nets from working with them on the boats, and I had seen them used as safety nets in the circus.

“I then went to help researchers in the Amazon rainforest to gain access to the high canopy, so I designed a series of rope bridges and nets which allowed them to study the forest without causing damage.

“Once I saw it put together I thought what a great idea it would be replicate

as a children’s playground.”

Cedric and his team of seven ex-fishermen and sailors will now spend the next six weeks at the Windermere site.

Mike Turner, who owns the treetop attractions, said: “Everything they do is being done by hand – there is no quick way to do it.

“I’m really excited to see it all put together now and really proud to bring it to Brockhole. It’s a park I’ve visited since I was a child myself and it’s a great family destination so it’s perfect that treetop nets will be here. Hopefully I can then take it out to other places around the UK.”

Institution of Engineering and Technology seeks best built environment innovations The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) has launched a worldwide search for the best innovations in built environment for one of the industry’s most prestigious awards programmes – the Innovation Awards.

The Innovation Awards recognise excellence across 16 categories, which span the breadth of science, engineering and technology. The free-to-enter, international annual awards scheme provides a unique opportunity for engineering inventors to showcase their brightest ideas.

Entries to the Built Environment Innovation Award category can relate to any aspect of the built environment including design proposals, system improvements or developments, installation methods, innovative use of new materials, product innovation, operation and maintenance of systems and equipment or components and all other aspects relating to the built environment.

The Innovation Awards, now in their tenth year, are renowned for raising the profile of their winners and bringing them to a wider audience. Many former Innovation

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Awards winners report increased interest in their products as a result of winning the accolade, such as Actual Experience plc, who won the Information Technology Innovation Award in 2012; and floated the company on the stock market in early 2014.

Barry Brooks, President of the IET, said: “Innovation is essential for the growth and continued excellence of the engineering and technological world.

Therefore the Innovation Awards are a fundamental part of the IET’s awards and sponsorship programme which last year provided over £500,000 to celebrate

excellence and research in the sector and encourage the next generation of engineers. The IET is passionate about promoting engineering excellence and the Innovation Awards are a great opportunity to showcase some of the very best work taking place around the world.”

Each category of the Innovation Awards is independently judged by a panel of experts in that field, with the shortlist announced each October. The winners will be revealed at a black tie dinner and ceremony, hosted by BBC Click’s Kate Russell, taking place on 19th November 2014.

Teaching facility opens at top performing academy A new teaching facility constructed using a Yorkon off-site building solution from the Portakabin Group, has opened at one of the country’s top performing academies in Cumbria after just four weeks on site.

The new Centre for Leadership and Learning at The Queen Katherine School in Kendal was required as a training venue and to provide the school with an area to host regular educational meetings and conferences.

The Queen Katherine School is a comprehensive secondary school catering for 11-18 year olds and was recently granted Teaching School status. This enables schools with the top Ofsted rating to work with other partners to deliver high quality support for teachers and leaders at all stages in their career. It joins only 148 other educational establishments across the country and the Government aims to have 500 by 2015.

The single-storey facility was constructed

by Portakabin Group, working in partnership with Capita Property & Infrastructure.

The building’s south elevation is linked to the school’s existing administrative block and it accommodates a large conference space for up to 100 people, reception area, office, committee room, and toilets with disabled access.

Full height glazing to the front and rear elevations has created a distinctive and contemporary exterior for the scheme, which is finished in red and grey to match the school’s colours.

The Yorkon modules were delivered to site around 60% complete, with plumbing, electrics and high performance concrete floor already in place. The building was handed over after just four weeks on site and the use of off-site construction allowed work to be carried out during the school holidays to minimise disruption to teaching.

Commenting on the project The Queen Katherine School’s Executive Head Teacher, Stephen Wilkinson, said: “We are very impressed with the high quality finish throughout and when I show anyone around the new building they all comment on how fantastic it looks – it is totally fit for purpose. The Yorkon solution met our challenging time scales, the overall performance was faultless and we would absolutely recommend it to other schools.”

Olympic engineer Tristram Carfrae presented with Gold Medal Tristram Carfrae, Fellow at engineering and design consultancy, Arup, has been presented with the prestigious Gold Medal award by The Institution of Structural Engineers. The award was given in recognition of Tristram’s exceptional contribution to the science and profession of structural engineering.

Tristram has designed remarkable structures all over the world, including The Beijing 2008 Olympics ‘Watercube’, the Helix Bridge in Singapore, and the City of Manchester Stadium. In the process he has worked with some of the greatest names in architecture and design, including Renzo Piano, Richard Rogers, Phillip Cox and Thomas Heatherwick.

Nick Russell, President of The Institution of Structural Engineers said: “We are delighted to present Tristram with our Gold Medal in recognition of his remarkable career and the outstanding work he does to advance the science of structural engineering. The Gold Medal is the most

prestigious prize we have, and its award sees Tristram join a group of engineering giants – the figures who have made truly historic contributions to engineering.

“It is my great privilege to welcome Tristram as our newest gold medallist, and offer him our warmest congratulations for this well deserved recognition.”

Tristram said: “It gives me incredible pride to be recognised by the institution and to join such an illustrious group of engineers.

“This is an exciting time for our profession, with the next decade promising to be full of opportunity. As we respond to challenges like climate change and sustainability, structural engineers have the chance to take a lead in the international conversation and make our work more visible to ordinary people.

“Hopefully, through our work’s increasing relevance in ordinary lives, and through a new emphasis on engineering education, we can encourage a whole new generation of future gold medallists, every bit as talented as Ove Arup or Edmund Happold.”

Chancellor unveils Crossrail’s new tunnels under the Thames The Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon George Osborne MP, unveiled London’s newest tunnel under the River Thames.

The ‘Thames Tunnel’, part of the £14.8Bn Crossrail project, stretches for almost two miles and will help to significantly improve connections between southeast London and the rest of the capital when it opens in 2018. As a result of the new link, journeys times will be cut by up to half from Abbey Wood to Canary Wharf, Bond Street and Liverpool Street.

The Chancellor was joined 15 metres below ground under the river Thames at North Woolwich by Crossrail Chairman Terry Morgan and Crossrail apprentices who have worked on the tunnels.

Speaking from the site the Chancellor said: “As part of our long term economic plan we are investing in infrastructure around the country to create a more balanced, resilient economy.

“Crossrail is not only providing extra speed and capacity for London’s

passengers, but also supporting new housing, jobs and businesses.”

Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: “London is the engine room of the UK and projects such as Crossrail are helping to drive our country’s economy in the right direction. Completion of the Thames Tunnel is yet another important chapter in the Crossrail story - a tale that perfectly highlights how investing in major transport schemes can trigger development and unlock the potential for thousands of new jobs and homes.”

It is estimated that Crossrail will generate at least 75,000 business opportunities and support the equivalent of 55,000 full time jobs around the UK. Three out of five businesses currently winning work on the project are based outside London and over half (58%) are small and medium sized enterprises.

In January, the Crossrail project reached the half-way point in construction on time and on budget.

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UKC NEWS

New centre aims to design low carbon buildings for the future A new Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Decarbonisation of the Built Environment at the University of has been launched by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

Heating, lighting, cooling and ventilation of buildings accounts for around 40% of carbon emissions from the developed world. The embodied energy needed to construct buildings accounts for another 5-10%. As a result, the built environment is responsible for 50% of relevant emissions, making it the largest single emitter.

The UK has the stated aim of an 80% cut in carbon emissions by 2050 and experts

suggest this target can only be met if work is done to transform society as a whole. Specifically, the built environment will need to be near fully decarbonised by that date, so consequently architects have a vital role to play.

The new CDT will be situated within the Department for Architecture and Civil Engineering and housed in a new building, due to open in 2015. It will see between 50 and 100 PhD students completing game-changing research into zero and low carbon building technologies.

The research themes covered will address some of the challenges facing the decarbonisation of the built

environment including: materials and structures, building physics, construction management processes, control and digital systems, social science, resilience and climate change, architecture, policy and economics. The centre will help bridge the gap between academic research and an industrial and societal need.

The first intake of students will start in October 2014 with the programme led by Professor David Coley who has a wealth of first hand experience in combining low energy building design with usability, designing developments that are fit for purpose well into the future.

IBI designed Clitheroe Community Hospital welcomes patients Clitheroe Community Hospital in Lancashire has officially started to move patients into its £7.8M brand new primary care facility designed by IBI Group.

The modern, therapeutic and clinically efficient building supports staff in delivering the highest level of service to individuals that require 24-hour nursing care.

Nick Prole, Senior Architect at IBI Group, said: “The new hospital provides a twostorey purpose built environment that is dementia friendly. Patients benefit from views out onto the surrounding landscape, optimised natural light, intuitive wayfinding, and significant communal space including an external exercise therapy area that doubles up as an alfresco dining room.”

The inpatient department features 16 individual ensuite bedrooms and four four-bed bays, which are designed to be converted into single bedrooms if required. These bays provide greater privacy and personal space for patients, reducing cross infection and improving observation by nursing staff.

Debbie Hargreaves, Matron for Community

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Inpatients at Clitheroe Hospital, said: “This is an absolutely fantastic facility for staff and patients who are so pleased with their new surroundings.”

Kathryn Berry, Regional Director (North) for NHS Property Services, added: “Clitheroe is a superb new hospital providing state-of-the-art facilities fit for 21st Century healthcare. We are really pleased with the finished result and would like to thank everyone who has been part

of this exciting new development.”

Delivered in partnership with East Lancashire Building Partnership, and built

by Eric Wright Construction, the new hospital is designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ sustainability rating and includes the following facilities: outpatient department and consultation rooms, specialist dentistry unit, physiotherapy and occupational therapy facilities, a restaurant and Clitheroe’s new ambulance station.

The Carlyle Group seeks funding partner for South Bank development Global alternative investment manager, The Carlyle Group has appointed Knight Frank to identify and secure a joint venture funding partner for its 1.4M sq ft gross external area consented, mixed-use regeneration project on the South Bank of London’s River Thames. Carlyle is also launching the scheme as Bankside Quarter.

Situated directly opposite the City of London, Bankside Quarter is located on one of the most sought after prime riverside sites in central London and will mark a significant step forward in the ongoing renaissance of the South Bank. It provides a new destination neighbourhood in the heart of London, comprising nine new buildings of between five- and 48-storeys in height and 35,000sq ft of new public space, including a central square and new gardens.

Carlyle intends to begin the first phase of the development next year, once funding is in place. This will involve the demolition of the current Ludgate House office building, upon receipt of vacant possession in March 2015, and the subsequent construction of a new 48-storey residential tower comprising 211 apartments, as well as a 17-storey residential tower right on the river’s edge.

Construction of the next phase will commence once Carlyle receives vacant possession of the Sampson House site in June 2018.

Commenting on the scheme, Mark Harris, Managing Director at The Carlyle Group, commented: “Bankside Quarter will transform the area of the South Bank around Blackfriars over the coming years, and offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to regenerate a prime, central riverside site of significant scale in London. The development will be delivered in phases over a number of years, replacing the tired and inefficient existing office buildings with a vibrant, thriving mixeduse community and 489 spectacular new homes. Given its central riverside location, opposite the city, we believe demand for office, residential and retail space in this area will remain, strong, and that Bankside Quarter has the potential to generate substantial value for investors as the project is delivered.”

City landmark reaches completion Work has now completed at Nottingham One, the most iconic residential development seen in the city for decades.

The city’s most talked about mixed-use development project, which comprises 237 apartments and 55,000sq ft of office space, has already attracted eager buyers and overseas investors.

Nottingham One, situated off Canal Street, is a pivotal part of the city’s regeneration plans and is a major focal point along one of the main arterial routes in and out of the city.

Construction firm Willmott Dixon has brought the landmark waterside development to completion – with apartments and commercial space being marketed by FHP Living.

Nick Heath, Operations Director for the East Midlands at Willmott Dixon, said: “We are pleased to have been the contractor responsible for delivering the completion of this project, which being honest has had its challenges.

Formerly known as South Reef, the development lay dormant for five years and has had several owners since original work began back in 2007.

“Work on the development stalled in 2010 as a result of the economic downturn. Willmott Dixon was appointed to complete this key regeneration scheme.”

Willmott Dixon started on site in February 2013, turning the site into an exciting waterside scheme that had always been intended for the city.

Nick continued: “I am now delighted to say that the works have now been completed and our team has moved off the site, so Nottingham One is now ready for current and prospective occupants to enjoy.”

Oliver Marshall, Consultant at FHP Living, said: “The scheme has been very popular with first time buyers and investors alike, which is to be expected of apartments of such high build quality.

The interest we have received since launching the accommodation in October has far exceeded our expectations.

“We are very close to being able to launch sales within The Tower, the final phase of the scheme. Apartments within this 13-storey section of the development will offer unrivalled views of the city and are sure to be hugely popular.”

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Net Contribution – Common Sense Under English law a party (“a Claimant”) who has suffered a loss which may have actually been caused by more than one party can choose whom it sues (“the Defendant”) to recover its losses. A Claimant may sue for recovery of the full extent of the loss even though the selected Defendant is only partly responsible for the losses claimed.

Not surprisingly, when deciding whom to sue, a Claimant is likely to select the ripest cherry in the bunch of potential Defendants. Let’s face facts, there is absolutely no point in suing a party who hasn’t got any money to pay you. It is then for the Defendant, assuming it is found liable and ordered to pay the Claimant, to recover a contribution from the other parties who contributed to the Claimant’s losses under the doctrine of joint and several liability.

The idea behind all this is that it is the Defendants who are best placed to decide which Defendant should pay which share of a Claimant’s losses. The principle can, however, be very harsh where, as is often the case, the Defendant (the ripest cherry in the bunch of potential Defendants) is ordered to pay out the full extent of the Claimant’s losses even though he is actually only responsible for a very small element of the losses claimed. It gets worse when the other cherries start dropping like flies, leaving the party who contributed least to the Claimant’s losses to foot the full bill with nobody available to share in the pain.

It is against this background that Professional Indemnity Insurers require Architects, Engineers, Surveyors, etc and savvy parties, including Contractors and Sub-Contractors, to insist on incorporating net contribution clauses within the commercial contracts they enter into.

Up until now there has been no guidance from the court on the enforceability of net contribution clauses. The case of West v Ian Finlay & Associates, a Court of Appeal decision delivered on 24 March 2014, changes that position once and for all, providing long awaited clarity on the use of these provisions within commercial contracts.

Finlay was appointed by the Wests to supervise

refurbishment operations to a domestic property. A term within the appointment said: “Our liability for loss or damage will be limited to the amount that is reasonable for us to pay in relation to the contractual responsibilities of other consultants, contractors and specialists appointed by you.”

It appears that the project did not go too well. Following completion of the works in May 2007, substantial defects were discovered in the property which included damp proof failures, defects within floor slabs and in the mechanical and electrical systems installations. The Wests were not happy. A period of two years passed during which the Wests engaged other parties to inspect and ultimately repair the defects. At the end of this period, the original builder, whose poor workmanship was largely to blame for the defects, had become insolvent.

The Wests decided to sue Finlay for the full extent of their losses asserting that the net contribution clause within the Finlay appointment was ambiguous and, in any event, fell foul of both The Unfair Terms in Consumer Contract Regulations 1999 (“Consumer Regulations”) and The Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 (“UCTA”).

At first instance, the judge accepted the Wests’ argument that the net contribution clause was ambiguous because it was known that the Wests were engaging other consultants, contractors and specialists to work on other projects (“other operations”) in the house that Finlay was not involved with and it was, in the judge’s mind, unclear whether the net contribution clause was intended to relate to these other operations or, as argued by Finlay, only the works it was engaged upon. As a consequence, the judge found in favour of the Wests and Finlay was ordered to pay the Wests’ claim in damages. Finlay appealed.

In the Court of Appeal judgement, the court rejected the judge’s finding that the net contribution clause within the contract was ambiguous. Commenting further on the applicability of the Consumer Regulations and UCTA, the court found that the existence of net contribution clauses

was commonplace in commercial contracts, the Wests would have understood the provision and the clause was not so far weighted in Finlay’s favour as to fall foul of the Consumer Regulations or UCTA. More importantly, the court found that the wording of the clause provided for an assessment which was similar to that set out in the Civil Liability (Contribution) Act 1978.

So, in summary, we now have confirmation that Net Contribution clauses are both lawful and, provided, in the case of contracts with domestic clients, care is taken to explain what these provisions actually mean, they will protect the party proposing such a provision in its appointments from finding itself being ordered to pay out for losses which it did not cause.

This all seems like common sense to me. We have had a net contribution clause within our terms and conditions for years. Is it time to review yours?

Peter Vinden is a practising adjudicator, arbitrator, expert and mediator. He is Managing Director of The Vinden Partnership and can be contacted by email at pvinden@vinden.co.uk.

For similar articles please visit www.vinden.co.uk

Regent House, Folds Point, Folds Road, Bolton BL1 2RZ t. 01204 362888 f. 01204 362808 tvp@vinden.co.uk www.vinden.co.uk

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COMMENT UKC

NHBC CEO Mike Quinton looks at how the industry has fared so far this year after an exceptional 12 months in 2013 It was always going to be tricky for 2014 to live up to the high standards of last year where new home registrations are concerned, but so far we are seeing volumes edge slightly ahead of 2013 levels.

For the calendar year to date (up to and including June) registrations are around 5% higher than the comparative period last year, with 70,673 new homes registered in all sectors (public and private) compared to 67,422 in the first six months of 2013.

This is clearly excellent news for the industry as house-builders up and down the country strive to meet expectations and build the new homes that the UK desperately needs.

What is equally encouraging is that we are seeing this growth across many different parts of the UK, not just in London and the South East, resulting in a clear broad-based recovery. Scotland too is also showing positive signs whilst we hope that the recently introduced Help to Buy Wales scheme will aid growth there as well.

However, we cannot ignore the fact that London and the surrounding regions remain the main engines of growth – indeed, the capital’s continued appeal means that for the calendar year 2013 the number of new homes registered in London was the highest since our electronic records began over 26 years ago.

We obviously hope that this period of consolidation and steady growth continues throughout the rest of 2014 and that we are able to look back come the end of the year on another successful 12 months for the sector.

Recruitment

With the industry stabilising NHBC has recently undertaken its largest recruitment campaign for 30 years, creating over 100 new frontline technical positions, including 80 new building inspectors as

well as surveyors, engineers, special project managers and new management roles. These come following the reopening of the Operations Training Academy, and are on top of the 40 building inspectors recruited recently.

The other new roles in surveying and engineering will help to ensure that the appropriate technical support is available for builders and their design teams, both on-site and during the design stage.

The campaign will also see the creation of a Mobile Quality Team which will work with builders who request extra inspection assistance and will cover ‘hot spot’ areas throughout the UK, for example those with very high demand or more complex projects.

Last financial year we carried out more than 600,000 inspections and this demand is increasing - and so NHBC is acting now, to get ahead of the curve, recruiting technical staff in order to better support our builder customers in maintaining on-site quality.

Raising standards

As ever, and at the heart of everything we do, are the NHBC Standards, the technical benchmark of the house-building industry. Our Standards are continually revised and updated in response to new building methods, new products, or emerging claims experience.

In the 2014 edition of the Standards we revised our guidelines to include new advice on mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR). Following research carried out through the NHBC Foundation and the Zero Carbon Hub, the issues identified around inadequate installation of MVHR have now been addressed through the publication of a new standards chapter. Additionally, a chapter looking at the construction of basements, building on the current benchmark standards and

offering practical guidance for structural waterproofing, is currently being developed and will be published next year.

The NHBC Foundation has also continued its ground-breaking research into the challenges builders face today. Recent publications include NF56 Sound Progress which examines feedback on noise from occupants of new homes built since 2004.

Looking ahead, future projects are being decided upon with guidance from its expert panel comprising senior representatives from Government, industry and academia.

Planning ahead

The year so far has been one of consolidation and steady growth as the industry builds on the bumper year of 2013. We have always been clear that this recovery has been from a historically low base, therefore there is still much be done in terms of NHBC supporting the industry as production ramps up and ensuring that build quality remains as high as possible for consumers.

Mike Quinton

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UKC COMMENT

Achieving Acoustic Comfort in Green Buildings

By Niklas Moeller, K.R. Moeller Associates Ltd Effective acoustics are essential to workplace satisfaction and performance.

As such, they should be a top design priority, particularly in green buildings where the mandate is not only to use fewer resources, but to create environments that are healthy and nurturing for occupants.

However, surveys conducted by the Center for the Built Environment (CBE), University of California Berkeley, show that green building occupants are generally more dissatisfied with acoustics than those in traditional structures.

The reason for this deficiency seems to lie in the fact that many green design practices unintentionally contravene the methods acoustic professionals typically use to control noise and improve speech privacy: absorb, block and cover.

Absorb noise

Absorptive materials reduce the volume of noises reflected back into a space, the length of time they last and the distance they travel.

Because the ceiling is usually the largest uninterrupted surface in a facility, using a good absorptive tile is key. However, many green buildings have open ceilings.

Research whether this decision will have the desired heating/cooling benefits and, if an exposed structure is still desired, treat an appropriate percentage of the deck with an absorptive material.

Generally speaking, this strategy has an impact, as do vertical baffles.

Workstation panels should also be absorptive, particularly if there is no acoustical tile. If the space is narrow in order to promote natural light penetration, use absorptive panels on select walls in order to prevent noise from ricocheting between the exterior wall and the core.

Use soft flooring to reduce footfall noise, at least in high traffic areas.

Block noise

Blocking noise is typically achieved using walls, doors and other physical structures. However, green buildings feature more open plan than their traditional counterparts.

In open plan spaces, workstation partitions above seated head height (6065 inches) are essential to attenuate the

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noises passing to an occupant’s nearest neighbors. If they are shorter, they do little more than hold up the desks.

Where daylighting is a concern, use absorptive panels up to a 48-inch height and top them with 12 inches of glass. The top introduces a reflective surface, but the reduction in absorption relative to the increase in blocking is an acceptable compromise. Also, ensure the panels have a high Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating and are well-sealed along any joints, with no significant openings between or below them.

If there is no ceiling, build walls to the deck. If there is a suspended ceiling, walls can stop at the ceiling, providing a covering strategy is implemented (see below). Walls should have a high STC rating to prevent airborne noise transmission; doors and interior windows should meet the same standard. Ensure that any gaps are carefully managed (e.g. do not locate penetrations such as outlets back-to-back on opposite sides of a wall) because these can significantly compromise the wall’s performance.

especially when included in the design stage. For instance, masking increases noise isolation in open plans. Natural ventilation can be employed. It also paves the way for using demountable walls, contributing to the space’s flexibility and reducing waste following renovations.

About the author

Niklas Moeller is the Vice-President of K.R. Moeller Associates Ltd., manufacturer of the LogiSon Acoustic Network sound masking system (www.logison.co.uk). He also writes an acoustics blog at www.soundmaskingblog.com.

Cover noise

While many people believe they can achieve effective acoustics by only absorbing and blocking, these strategies simply reduce and contain noise. One must also ensure that the background sound level in the space is sufficient to provide speech privacy and reduce the amount of disruption caused by the remaining noises in the space.

The background sound level in most conventional offices is already too low.

The use of high-efficiency heating and cooling systems means that it is generally even lower in green buildings.

Install a sound masking system to address this deficiency. This solution uses a series of loudspeakers to distribute a continuous sound that has been specifically engineered to increase speech privacy. It also completely covers up noises or reduces their impact by decreasing the amount of change between the baseline and any volume peaks in the space. Most systems also provide paging and music distribution.

Using a sound masking system can help support other sustainable efforts,

Niklas Moeller

COMMENT UKC

NEC3 and Notice of Compensation Event: Subjective and Objective Tests

By Peter Sheridan, Sheridan Gold LLP NEC3 is widely used for civil engineering projects in the UK and is now the only standard form promoted by the ICE. One of its well-known provisions is a time bar relating to compensation events, at clause 61.3. Under this provision, the contractor is not entitled to a change in the prices, the completion date or a key date, if he does not notify a compensation event within eight weeks of becoming aware of the event, unless the project manager should have notified the event but did not. The contractor is to notify if he believes the event is a compensation event and the project manager has not notified the event.

This provision has attracted attention because of the potentially severe consequences to the contractor if barred from recovering money and obtaining extension of time in respect of a compensation event. In legal language, effective and timely notice is a condition precedent to recovery under the compensation event provisions, ie: there is no recovery in the absence of a valid notice.

There has been a debate about whether a condition precedent provision of this type overrides the prevention principle. The prevention principle is that the employer cannot both be responsible for a delay (which would normally be the position in relation to a compensation event which causes delay) and recover delay damages from the contractor (which would normally be the effect if the contractor lost the entitlement to a change in the completion date by failing to comply with the notice provision). In the Australian Gaymark case, a condition precedent provision was found not to override the prevention principle. However, it seems the opposite view applies in the UK: see Multiplex Construction (UK) Ltd v Honeywell Control Systems Ltd and Steria v Sigma, so that the current position in the UK is that the NEC3 condition precedent provision will not founder on that basis.

The provision has recently been considered by the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland, in Northern Ireland Housing Executive v Healthy Buildings (Ireland) Ltd (2014) (which concerned an NEC3 professional services contract). The court noted that the time bar provision is an exclusion

clause in favour of the employer and is to be construed contra proferentem, ie: any ambiguity is resolved in favour of the other party (although nothing turned on this point in the case and the court did not find any ambiguity in clause 61.3).

One interesting aspect of the clause 61.3 provision is that it seems that the timing of the notice is not simply related to a period of eight weeks from the event itself, but is not required unless the contractor also believes that the event is a compensation event. The wording seems to indicate a subjective belief, ie: it relates to the actual belief of the contractor. The provision could have been expressed in objective terms by referring to what an experienced contractor would reasonably believe, which is a type of test used elsewhere in the NEC form, for example in relation to the compensation event which deals with the type of unforeseen ground conditions claim provided for at clause 12 of ICE standard forms.

A subjective test in this context introduces an element of uncertainty as to when the notice is due, as it is dependent on the actual formation of a belief by the contractor, which in this context refers to the thought processes of the individual responsible for the giving of this type of notice. This may not be a matter of record and may therefore be unknowable so far as the project manager and employer are concerned. Some commentators have thought that the provision might, despite being couched in subjective terms, be construed in objective terms. However, the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland stated that clause 61.3 “does introduce an express element of subjective belief on the part of a consultant giving a notice under that provision.”

The court drew a distinction between this subjective belief and the objective requirement which applies to the project manager’s obligation to notify a compensation when giving an instruction which amounts to a compensation event (clause 61.1). The employer argued that the project manager was obliged to notify a compensation event only when he believed there was one. The employer wanted to move from that basis to argue

further that where the project manager had not notified because he did not believe an instruction was a compensation event, the consultant was caught by the time bar for not notifying under clause 63.1. The consultant’s argument was that it was saved by the clause 61.3 provision that it was not disentitled where the project manager should have notified the event but did not. The employer’s arguments failed as the obligations on the project manager at clauses 61.1 and 61.3 are in objective terms. Once the court decided (as it did on the facts of this case) that the instruction in question was a compensation event, it followed that the project manager should have notified but had not and so the time bar did not apply.

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

29

UKC COMMENT

Planning reform and transfer to local government

By Michael Gordon, Turley It is just nine months until the recently elected representatives emerge from shadow to be responsible and accountable for the vast majority of planning decisions plus preparation of new local development plans (LDPs). The seismic shift in local governance will reinstate council’s planning powers removed in 1973.

In preparation for changes to planning DOE recently published a far reaching consultation document – ‘Planning Reform and Transfer to Local Government: Proposals for Subordinate Legislation’ - which is referred to as “day one essentials” for our new system of planning.

The document sets out an expansive range of proposed legal instruments for operating a reformed system of planning. This consultation document should be of interest to anyone engaged in planning for new development and have significant consequences for future planning application requirements.

Countdown starts post April 2015 as each of the 11 new super councils commence preparation of their future LDPs, to supersede existing adopted or draft area plans. Belfast City Council is already out of the blocks with its plan making, progressing numerous studies and research projects that feed into preparation of a LDP. The LDP will be a 15 year plan framework consisting of two separate development plan documents, a Plan Strategy and Local Policies Plan. From a developers perspective engagement with the new planning authority on the LDP from the outset is critical, to be known as the preferred options stage. The consultation document includes indicative dates for the preparation of these local plans however reference to a 40 month timeframe as set out in the NI Strategic Planning Policy Statement is not repeated here. With adoption of draft Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan 2015 (published in 2004) still pending, certainty on timeframe for LDP preparation is a must have if committed to a new plan led system.

Those familiar with the current system of planning application processing will be aware of the ‘one size fits all’ approach, irrespective of the scale and complexity of proposals. The new arrangements will see a three tier processing hierarchy emerge,

30

implementing a responsive system that is proportionate to the scale and type of planning application. The draft proposals set out an order of local, major and regionally significant developments with applicable thresholds for each category.

The category breakdown is essential reading for anyone planning development or managing assets across every sector.

For example a housing development of more than 50 units or a retail development outside town centre of 1,000sq m or more would fall within the major category.

Importantly, major and regional significant proposals have specific requirements for pre-application community consultation.

Whilst recognised as good practice, pre-application community consultation is currently not a statutory requirement.

Those gearing up for submission of major proposals over the next 12 months should be live to the new community consultation requirements. This compulsory requirement has a significant programme implication as well as cost outlay, depending on the method of engagement. Close readers will note the finer detail of application notices required to advise of the intention to submit proposals detailing the nature, timing and method of community consultation.

After 1 July 2015 it will not be possible to submit a major or regionally significant application until 12 weeks have lapsed from the date of serving the application notice.

In addition to consultative based front-loading requirements of future applications, there is a new dimension of supporting information obligations with a Design and Access statement. Such statements have long been in operation in the English system.

Unlike our current design concept statements, which are applicable to mainly residential development, design and access statements will be required for all major applications.

Planning applicants will welcome proposals to speed up the process including the requirement for statutory consultees to make a ‘substantive response’ within 21 days. Adherence to this timeframe, together with the frontloading with more extensive information should improve efficiency in decision taking.

Nuts and bolts of the new planning system

are unveiled in this latest consultation on now imminent reforms. Post April 2015 developers and their agents will have much to consider to satisfy new statutory requirements for planning applications.

The range of new measures aim to front load planning applications and establish a more efficient and effective process for taking decisions. It’s no surprise that these reforms will require planners to utilise their full planning toolkit in support of planning applications, delivering effective community engagement, producing Design & Access Statements and maintain positive working relationships with Council officials.

Michael Gordon is a Director in the Belfast office of Turley Associates.

He can be reached be email mgordon@turleyassociates.co.uk.

For further information visit www.turleyassociates.co.uk.

Michael Gordon

CASE STUDY UKC

Building a better Wales by coming together as a team

By Milica Kitson, Constructing Excellence in Wales The potential for Welsh construction to transform our country and deliver real value via collaborative procurement is huge. Schools, hospitals and universities need improvement. We need more and better performing homes. Our roads and rail infrastructure need to be upgraded.

Construction can create a world-class Welsh built environment and deliver tangible benefits to our communities as well. Every £1 invested in construction generates £2 of value in terms of business opportunities, jobs and, training – but only if the construction supply chain works collaboratively. It is what Constructing Excellence in Wales (CEW) campaigns for every day.

The Forward Programme of Work produced

by CEW with local authorities and the Wales Construction Procurement Steering Group indicates that the £1Bn worth of public sector work needed in the next three years could generate an additional £2Bn of value to local communities.

Then, if we add social housing, health, rail, further education and other projects set out in the Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan (WIIP), the opportunities derived from collaborative procurement and integrated team working are enormous. But it can only be achieved with commitment from the teams involved and leadership from client organisations. It also demands cultural change and CEW is the single organisation charged with driving this agenda.

CEW exists to improve industry performance in order to produce a better Welsh built environment and generate greater value from the Welsh pound.

We are a cross-sector, pan supply chain organisation, funded by Welsh Government and operating for the good of the

industry, its stakeholders and the citizens of Wales. We share the experiences of our industry supporter via our Exemplar and Demonstration programme which highlights the economic, social and environmental benefits that collaborative working can generate. Combined with our management of the Welsh Government’s Construction Waste Minimisation Programme and our hosting of the Wales Low/ Zero Carbon Hub we are able to evidence and provide fully integrated solutions for the industry.

What’s more, some major landmark schemes in Wales have achieved huge success because of the construction team’s commitment to collaborative working and best practice. But we are not a task and finish organisation.

Economic pressures, the short-term priorities of governance teams and demands on cash flow mean there is a risk that projects are determined on lowest price and not on long-term value.

That means our work is not over.

Our role is twofold. Firstly, to help every aspect of the property, infrastructure and construction community to improve itself in order to deliver better quality and value for money to its clients and users.

Secondly, to help every client, public sector and private: to drive better performance and become an “enlightened client”. Our goal is that the Welsh built environment provides maximum value to all clients, end users and stakeholders through the delivery of world class products and services.

Strong client leadership is the key to driving this change and delivering greater value across Wales. Many enlightened clients across Wales are already doing this but it just isn’t happening widely

enough. If we are to drive real benefits from the investment made in our built environment then we have to focus on improving the performance of the private and public sector client. Then Wales will enjoy real long-term benefits.

Milica Kitson

31

UKC PROFILE

Uphall Primary School

Extension to increase pupil numbers Work to expand Uphall Primary School in Ilford are well on track, ready to provide children with a new, three-storey building at the start of the next school year.

The start of the project was ushered in with a ground-breaking ceremony attended by the Lady Mayoress Felicity Banks in January 2014.

The original building and the caretaker’s lodge were built by Essex County Council as a primary school in the early 1900s and they display Victorian and Edwardian characteristics, and an extension was undertaken to the south nine years ago.

The listed nursery - known as The Ship - was built in the 1930s and the building housing the library dates from the 1960s.

All of this will be joined by a new extension

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that will connect the existing school together with a new multi-use games area and associated external works.

It will be a welcome addition to Uphill Primary School, which aims to provide children with a happy, secure and stimulating learning experience.

The school strives to reach the highest possible standard in everything that it does and in doing this supports children to become confident, independent learners with a thirst to continually learn and do better.

Creative learning opportunities are offered that stimulate, excite and enrich, making each child successful now and for the future.

The quality of relationships is a high

priority for staff, pupils and parents and the staff and governors are fully committed to providing the best possible education for all children.

The aim is to help children become confident and independent learners, improve standards of achievement across all areas of the curriculum, develop positive attitudes and values relevant to each child’s own experience and life, and show respect and understanding towards others.

At Uphall Primary School, children are helped to develop lively and enquiring minds, understand the world in which they live and celebrate their own individualities as part of a multi-cultural society.

The extension will see the school go continued on page 34 >

Plasticsin Construction A complete, bespoke design and build service From covered walkways and canopies, to ridge glazing, north lights and roof lights, Plastics in Construction provides a wealth of experience in designing and building glazed structures using thermoplastic sheet materials.

A flexible approach We have successfully completed projects all over the UK, in schools and colleges, bus and railway stations, offices, sports centres, retail premises, logistics centres and many other applications.

We work closely with local authorities, main contractors, national retailers and other customers in almost every sector.Our flexible approach means we are equally happy to work as a sub-contractor, or direct for the client.

Where required, we can assist with planning applications, as well as providing knowledgeable advice on all aspects of the design process.

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from four forms of entry with 120 places per year group, to five forms of entry, therefore giving 150 places per year group.

The project is for Redbridge Council, who is also the Architect. Redbridge is the fourth most diverse borough in the country and the thriving multi-cultural community has a population of 284,600 residents.

The Council’s administrative headquarters are at Redbridge Town Hall in Ilford and the administration is led by Councillor Jas Athwal.

The Main Contractor for the project is Neilcott Construction, which was established in 1967 to provide building contracting services from its base in Orpington, Kent.

Since then, the Company has proved its capability to handle a wide range of construction projects. A commitment to achieving high standards of performance with a straightforward and effective management style has allowed Neilcott to grow in size and stature.

In 2000, Neilcott moved its business to larger freehold premises in Orpington.

These new offices, together with investment in IT and staff development have enabled the Company to continue the controlled growth necessary to satisfy the demands of both existing and new clients.

Two years later, the Company expanded by opening a regional office in Woking and due to increasing workload, the office

relocated in 2007 to larger premises in Farnborough, which is an ideal location to serve the growing list of clients along the South Coast and the Thames corridor.

The Company established a Special Works Division in 2003, initially working primarily in the city but now operational throughout London and the South East and itself is now turning over more than £7M each year.

It undertakes smaller, bespoke type contracts that demand close attention, often benefiting from the greater levels of control that can be guaranteed through using direct labour teams. Additionally, the Division has developed particular expertise in office fast track fit out works to values in excess of £2M, undertaking ongoing negotiated works for regular clients.

In 2004, Neilcott was awarded the first of several framework contracts. The contract was to provide educational construction services on a design and build basis throughout the London Borough of Croydon.

This type of service has now been extended to the London Boroughs of Lambeth, Barking & Dagenham, and Kent County Council, together with London South Bank University.

In addition, Neilcott has been engaged in partnering arrangements with numerous major private sector clients such as British Land Plc, Threadneedle Asset Management and Santander.

With such a range of experience, the extension of Uphall Primary School is in safe hands, as the Company carried out health and safety talks at the groundbreaking ceremony as well as providing students with information about the types of careers in construction.

At the ceremony, Neilcott’s Managing Director, Malcolm Elster, said: “We are delighted to start work on this exciting scheme for Redbridge, which will provide much needed places for the school.”

Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Councillor Alan Weinberg, explained why an extension was the right idea in the face of increasing student numbers.

“To build a new school you need land and if you look at Redbridge, we don’t have an abundance of land,” he said.

“When you have a school that’s operating well, why not expand rather than hunting for a new site?”

Work on the project started in January 2014 and will be completed in September 2014, ready for the new school year.

Mid Kent Scaffolding

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Tel : 01622 873117 34

EDUCATION UKC

Dulwich College

New science building to celebrate the 400th anniversary Dulwich College is undergoing a multiphase development that will provide a new building with a range of new facilities.

Located on the 70-hectare campus, the building will be next door to the Barry buildings that were erected in 1869 and are a landmark of Dulwich.

One of the key parts of the design has ensured that it will look like a thoroughly modern building that is both deferential to, but also reflects in its own character, the Barry buildings. The external design is also quite clever and interesting in terms of how it will be presented.

When finished, the science building will provide Dulwich College with 21 teaching laboratories, five IT suites, communal spaces where art and science meet, an exhibition space with connecting walkways that will house the James Caird lifeboat - an historical piece that is the original lifeboat that Ernest Shackleton used when he went to the Antarctic in 1916 on his famous voyage.

The boat will be in the atrium, and a 240seat auditorium will also be included.

Work is being undertaken in two phases.

Phase I, which is currently under way,

is a three-storey development, while the second phase is two-storeys.

Phase I comprises 18 laboratories, staff accommodation space and the James Caird hall with the main atrium, while Phase II will provide the five IT suites, the auditorium and three more lower school laboratories.

Designed by Nicholas Grimshaw & Partners Ltd, this is a very large science establishment that educates more than 200 boys. The building’s design is based around a large central court corridor which runs at all three, and then two levels.

The circulation runs around this James Caird hall which is a three-storey atrium.

The circulation flows around the building through the James Caird hall and down the central corridors, and then through in to the auditorium, which is an ’S’ shape.

In terms of sustainability, the development is targeting an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating. It will be a mixed-mode ventilation system with an open loop ground source cooling, known as thermally activated building systems (TABS).

Therefore, essentially borehole water will be used from 100m down that will be running through the soffits

and that will keep it down.

This has been chosen as a method for sustainability to remove the need for mechanical cooling. The estimated emissions are 42% lower than building regulations 2010 target emissions rate.

Approximately 20% of this comes down at the ground source cooling and photovoltaic panels, and the thermal structure of the building is designed to minimise energy loss.

Structurally, the frame will be concrete and cladding will have concrete panels with terracotta on the outside. There is a glazed curtain walling that is being undertaken by Schuco, a bronze anodised frame with German glass.

The terracotta is being taken care of by NBK in Germany and Decomo is doing the precast concrete, which is the cladding.

The roof is concrete, and a good portion of this will benefit from solar photovoltaic panels on the top, while the exterior will have the concrete cladding and has small visors to help shade the sunlight.

Being on a level site is a benefit, as are the ground conditions, which comprised London clay. Demolition work has been

35

required on site. The previous building was erected in the 1950s because the one that stood before that was destroyed during the Second World War bombings.

The problem was that a wing of this building had started to heave and slip, which led to it being condemned. The College wanted to retain the old building as well as building the new but it was decided that the foundations couldn’t withstand this so the whole building was demolished.

All of the building will be fully accessible with a lift and level access for wheelchair users. From the central lobby, there will be a wide flight of stairs, with a lift shaft at one end and the fire exit stairs on the outside of the building.

In terms of the project, the brief given to the construction team was quality that reflects the ethos of the

36

college that delivers an educational experience that is second to none and matches the aspirations of the boys.

It is a meeting place for science and art because this encompasses everything Dulwich College wanted within the building, which will also be for community use.

The building will reflect the standards of the Barry building and also modern standards of accessibility, security, and low maintenance, and this development has been designed with all of this in mind.

As part of the master plan put in place at the college, part of the plan was to, as much as possible, pedestrianise the centre of the campus and push traffic to its periphery.

One of the first projects that the master plan pin-pointed was the science building, which is now being delivered. In terms

of car parking, the construction of this building will help to create a pedestrianised piazza in its surrounding areas and therefore cars will be moved further away from the main buildings on this site, which is mostly grass but also has a substantial amount of hard standing.

The Main Contractor for the project is McLaren Construction, who has put together an expert team to undertake the work, including Alan Baxter Associates. Work started last summer and Phase I is due to complete in March 2015, and the Easter holidays will be used to populate the building.

After this, Phase II will start four weeks later, which is due for completion in May 2016.

It is a fitting way to celebrate the College’s 400th anniversary.

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FEATURE PROJECT

DULWICH COLLEGE Dulwich College is an historic and esteemed institution. This £20m flagship scheme comprises the construction of a new state-of-the-art Science Facility for Dulwich College. The project, when completed, will provide new teaching facilities for Science & IT, 21 teaching laboratories, five IT suites, communal spaces, an exhibition space with connecting walkways also housing the James Caird lifeboat and a 240-seat auditorium.

Blue Sky Building initially provided preconstruction advice to the Client, to establish the optimum programme for the project, which entailed detailed consideration of the phasing and sequencing of the works to minimise the disruption that the new construction would have on the daily life of the College.

We also provided advice to establish the main contractor procurement route, which satisfied the College’s required criteria but at the same time secured interest in the market place.

Blue Sky Building is undertaking the role of Project Manager Contract Administrator and Employer’s Agent.

In our role as Project Manager, we are the focal point of the Client team and our duties include the establishment of the Employer’s Requirements, overseeing the pre-qualification and subsequent appointment of the main contractor and undertaking the role of Client advisor during the course of the project.

As construction professionals, Blue Sky Building has considerable experience of the issues that can arise during a project, and act diligently and professionally to resolve problems that arise, to protect the client’s interests in a fair and impartial manner.

We also act as Employer’s Agent, administering the contract as required under the JCT Design & Build Contract.

tradition of excellence a

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UKC COMMERCIAL

Cody Park

Ark Data Centres

April 2014 saw the completion of Ark Data Centres’ latest facility at Cody Park, A101, which was finished on schedule and marks the next step forward in their plans to lead the market by example.

The first module, a two-storey facility consisting of two separate and secure data rooms each supporting 750kW of IT load was completed in August 2013 ahead of programme and has been operational since September 2013. A101 is set in its own compound within a secure campus adjacent to Cody Technology Park, which is home to Data Centre A9, another Ark facility that has been operational since December 2011.

Cody Park, a secure 36 acre campus, is one of Ark’s high integrity data centre campuses and was conceived and designed to complement the local environment and is ideally located for data centre occupiers seeking secure, low carbon data centre facilities within replication distance to London.

As part of the planning consent for A101, Ark has met stringent noise conditions to ensure there is no operational noise impact on the nearest receptors.

A101 comprises of a state-of-the-art data centre with six data rooms providing space for up to 1,092 cabinets at an average of 4.2kW per cabinet, over 42 discrete aisles, resulting in a final facility IT load of 4.5MW. The ancillary area includes goods lifts, stairs, a loading bay, build rooms, technical support offices, a building control centre, security office, kitchen and rest rooms.

It follows the same model as P1, which was built at Spring Park; both are stand-alone modular facilities, not housed within another building.

This modular approach ticks all the boxes from a planning point of view – from visual impact to energy efficiency and the standard footprint simplifies planning approvals and civil construction.

Each module construction occurs in phases and does not affect the existing modules in any way. Aligned to Ark’s sustainable principles, the facilities at Cody Park will receive a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating.

The final day of integrated systems testing on Module 1 took place on 12th July,

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three days ahead of schedule and in the presence of BCS CEEDA accreditors. In what is a rare occasion in the industry, a customer was also present for this event.

Following the successfully completed IST, a two-week period of training and familiarisation took place for the operations live service team prior to customer handover. This handover was undertaken as contracted in September 2013.

Ark provided access to customers for installation of cabinets in advance of the handover. Kevin Bone, Director of Business Programme & Client Change at Ark, said in August: “We are very agile, flexible and understand the needs of our customers.

“We assisted with the pre-handover and fit out of cabinets and structured cabling for two customers, in two separate data rooms, to ensure their occupation goes smoothly and they achieve their go live dates.

“For the last two weeks, these installations have been running concurrently with the on-site operations team training plan.”

Fenton Bard, of SOURCE, one of A101’s initial occupants, added: “This latest addition to the SOURCE portfolio with Business Impact Level 3 (BIL3) status allows us to satisfy public sector and high security enterprise data centre requirements within just 24 hours of order.

“Ready connected, SOURCE delivers high speed tier one internet and pointto-point network services just a cross-connect away. We are really delighted to be working in true partnership with Ark and look forward to expanding through this and the Spring Park campus in the near future.”

Ark’s Design & Build Director, Pip Squire, said: “The BCS CEEDA official expressed amazement that we would carry out such an important test in front of a customer – as this is something that seldom happens in the industry.

“But this is what we do at Ark. We are open and transparent in our approach to delivery. We have confidence in our products, our systems and our delivery team, which we will continue to demonstrate

at every stage of our partnerships.

This is just business as usual.”

Huw Owen, CEO of Ark, said: “This is another step forward for Ark’s plan to take the company to the next level and achieve our aggressive expansion plans.

The team has put in a sterling effort and should be very happy with the result.”

A101 is designed to Tier III high-availability standards with very low additional energy used in the cooling and power systems, resulting in an annualised PUE of less than 1.25 within an IL3 security environment.

Site enabling works for A101 Cody Park began in December 2012 and eight weeks later, at the end of February 2013, the deployment of the data rooms commenced.

Despite the challenging weather conditions throughout the cold, wet winter and spring, Ark delivered module one of data centre A101 in just 18 weeks from release of the concrete slab, on programme and to budget.

Established in 2005, Ark is rapidly expanding to serve the needs of organisations that require nothing short of operational excellence.

Ark’s experienced team understand the IT service and business critical requirements of customers and work in partnership with them to deliver the data centre solutions they need on a non-transactional basis.

As well as Cody Park, Ark has another dedicated data centre campus location in the South of England at Spring Park, Corsham. Like Cody Park, Spring Park also houses high integrity, high security data centres offering an agile approach to organisations who appreciate the need for security, flexibility and sustainability.

With an aggressive expansion programme in place, Ark will continue to deliver sustainable, secure and flexible data centre solutions.

Every Ark data centre is secure to the minimum of BIL3. However, customers can increase security as required at data centre, data room, suite or aisle level as part of the company-wide zero tolerance approach to anything that puts a customer’s business at risk.

The company’s culture is to be 100% committed to its customers. Ark is

continuously and responsibly delivering tomorrow’s data centre needs today, enabling the digital capability that underpins modern economy and public services.

A101 is an evolution of the ‘volumetric’ data centre Ark deployed at Spring Park during 2012. With the volumetric solution, the entire data centre module is constructed off-site and then transported as a series of units for assembly on-site.

The steel required to transport these rigid boxes was more than that needed for the construction and operation of the data centre altogether. This led to the development of a ‘flat pack’ or ‘armature’ solution that has been implemented as a method of standardising the complex elements of the BladeRoom into a more cost effective solution by reducing the amount of structure within the modules while maintaining the functional performance of the facility with no compromise on the operation of the data centre.

Having undertaken site preparation including groundworks, foundations, the concrete structural slabs and the provision of site utilities, the assembly saw the delivery of four air optimiser units to the site, complete with roof sections.

These were then craned into position before external cladding to the north gable end wall was delivered to the site and installed.

This allowed the commencement of the ancillary block and energy centre steel frame to begin, which is a traditional steel frame building with insulated cladding.

Data rooms comprising of 16 prefabricated units, fitted with all services installed at the factory, were then delivered to the site and 16 additional units were delivered as skeleton units only.

They were craned into position and fitted to precast bolts within the structural slab and the first floor of modules one and two were sealed and constructed section by section.

External cladding continued to the data room sections as the units were assembled and plant decks for modules one and two were delivered to site and craned into position.

After this, the internal fit out began,

and internal bay-to-bay junction trims were installed throughout to prevent cold bridging. Fire, power and data services were fitted before external services such as water, drainage and power were connected.

At all stages, strict quality assurance procedures were followed and detailed installation guides produced for each element.

Spring Park has also made rapid progress at its dedicated data centre site in Wiltshire. The second phase of data centre SQ17 was completed in January 2014 after commencing in April 2013.

Pip Squire, Design & Build Director for Ark, said: “We are rapidly expanding our data centre estate to meet the growing demand for high integrity data centres.

“Module one of SQ17, one of our first facilities, has been operational since 2010, and two years on the shell will be ready for a further four modules and administration block.”

Module two’s energy centre slab was released ready for mechanical and electrical deployment from 19th August 2013.

In keeping with Ark’s sustainable principles and procurement programme, local suppliers and contractors have been utilised to reduce the carbon footprint and to contribute towards a BREEAM certification of ‘Excellent’. Ark’s approach to health and safety also requires that each project is part of the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

Once complete, SQ17 will comprise six 2MVA modules, all supporting four BIL4 (or up to BIL6 if required) data suites which can each hold up to 60 cabinets with average power 2.7kW. SQ17 is located in its own secure compound within the external, secure boundary of Spring Park in Corsham, Wiltshire; a site previously owned and still surrounded by the Ministry of Defence, which was selected by Ark for the levels of security it affords and its position relative to an intermodal point on the National Grid.

The campus is also home to Data Centre P1, module one of which has been operational since November 2011.

Modules two and three were installed in April 2014 and the facility boasts a tested and proven low PUE of 1.25.

When compared against a traditional data

Open Control Solutions Ltd specialise in the Design, Supply & Commissioning of “Building Energy Management Systems” (BEMS), and have been at the forefront of “integrating systems” within the data centre industry since its establishment in 2004.

CONTACT US: Suite 1, Stonebridge Court, Wakefield Road, Horbury WF4 5HQ Tel: 01924 237060 Fax: 01924 237065 Email: info@opencontrol.co.uk www.opencontrol.co.uk

centre running at 2.5, Ark’s solution can save occupiers £1.1 million per megawatt of IT and 6,000 tonnes of carbon per year, for every year of the contract.

As well as being highly energy efficient, Ark continues to roll out its landscape and environmental management plan to increase biodiversity at both Spring Park and Cody Park.

Stephen Hall, Executive Sales & Marketing Director, said: “We have an aggressive growth strategy and have seen our sales pipeline expand exponentially since our recapitalisation last July.

“The continued development on both campuses to meet customer demand is a true reflection of Ark’s commitment to deliver data centres that enable the digital capability underpinning our modern economy and public services.”

Ark’s world-class team of industry professionals understand the complexities of delivering and operating business critical infrastructure deployed to meet each occupier’s individual requirements, and this is apparent with the A101 and A9 data centres.

The quality of work has been recognised. Ark was a finalist in the Uptime Institute Green Enterprise IT Awards 2012 in the category of Modula Data Centre Product Deployment, and also at the Datacenter Dynamics EMEA Awards 2012 in the innovation in the Mega Data Center category.

Spring Park and Cody Park data centre campus locations house a variety of Ark’s high integrity data centres, offering a flexible approach to organisations who appreciate the need for secure, available and sustainable data processing, storage and communications solutions.

Both sites are also aligned with the UK Government’s policy of reducing the environmental impact of ICT by ensuring improvements in energy efficiency.

Together, Ark and its industry partners continue to be instrumental in the enhancement of industry standards and are associated with many thoughtleading and best practice collaborations in the public and private sector including the Intellect Data Centre Council and the Data Centre Alliance, resulting in full compliance with the EU Code of Conduct.

Established in 2004, Open Control Solutions provide Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS) and energy related support services which maintain optimal building conditions whilst reducing Co2 emissions and energy consumption. Being independent of any manufacturer allows us to select the most suitable products to achieve this, all the systems we offer support IP connectivity and industry standard open protocols to ensure the systems we install today can be upgraded and expanded in the future throughout the life cycle of the building.

Ongoing support of the system is a key area we focus on to ensure that the system continues to operate at its most efficient whilst remaining simple to use.

This is based on the board of director’s collective experience of over 42 years in the control industry.

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of our work is via existing clients or referrals Does that mean we’re resting on our laurels?

No; quite the opposite, in fact. We enjoy what we do and are always looking for new challenges. It was our founding philosophy in 2004: to attain the highest standards in building engineering services – and exceed them. Since that time, we’ve developed business relationships based on trust and integrity with a prestigious, blue-chip client base. These have given us an excellent reputation in the marketplace.

It’s our mission to achieve ever-higher standards for both new and existing customers in every business sector: from mission-critical IT installations to commercial, financial, retail, leisure and premium residential.

As a leading provider of mechanical and electrical maintenance solutions, we’ll support your business from day one. With electrical systems at the heart of every building, JCA can also help you design, install and maintain the optimum levels of electrical performance, economy, functionality and safety.

Moreover, JCA provides a range of professional support services including facilities management systems, bespoke software development, reporting, regulatory compliance, CDM-C and HSQE consultancy.

To find out how JCA could benefit your business, call us anytime to discuss your requirements on 01438 847020, or email us at info@jcagroup.co.uk

www.jcagroup.co.uk

SPRING PARK – EXCELLENT SECURITY FOR YOUR VALUABLE DATA

Control Risks and Ark are your ideal partners to ensure your data stays where it belongs On the Spring Park project, Ark Data Centres joined forces with Control Risks to ensure that their commitment to customer security is maintained and implemented in line with their strict risk management system.

Control Risks supported by • Providing an assessment of the risk environment • Designing risk-commensurate physical and electronic security solutions • Provisioning technical assurance to ensure compliance with design

www.controlrisks.com

Your assets deserve the best protection Partner up with Control Risks to enhance the resilience of data and business assets. Control Risks offers a wide range of services to protect your most valuable assets: • Assessment of threats • Development of security plans, policies and procedures • Design of security measures

• Crisis management preparedness and response • Business continuity and resilience • Cyber threat intelligence services

For more information, please contact enquiries@controlrisks.com

Managing Risk | Maximising Opportunity

UKC RETAIL

Boots

Increasing its pharmacy offering and other collaborations A member of Alliance Boots, Boots is an international pharmacy-led health and beauty group, with the purpose of helping its customers look and feel better than ever.

Customers are at the heart of the Boots ethos and business, with the commitment to providing exceptional customer and patient care being paramount.

This is the case whether it be the

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first choice pharmacy and healthcare, offering innovative products, all with great value customers love.

There are approximately 2,500 health and beauty stores throughout the UK, meaning that approximately 90% of the population is estimated to be within a ten minute drive of a Boots store.

The two retail businesses have been combined in the UK - Alliance Pharmacy

and Boots - and developed a multi-format strategy focused on giving customers more of what they want and need in the right place, cared for by friendly, professional people who work at Boots.

The larger Boots health and beauty stores offer destination shopping with a wide range of products including all Boots leading brands and the flagship stores offer beauty halls with beauty

consultants and premium cosmetics.

Boots travel stores have targeted ranges to meet the needs of customers when they’re travelling.

With new pharmacies being acquired, Boots will be able to reach even more customers, with pharmacy at the heart of many communities.

The aim of Boots is to become the first choice for healthcare, reaching customers and patients in new ways and with real convenience.

From local pharmacies to large flagship stores, from care homes through to prison services, Boots aim to give a great pharmacy experience.

Healthcare in Boots is not just about dispensing prescriptions, but also about offering expert advice to all patients and customers, ensuring they get top quality patient care in a location that is convenient to them.

Working closely with the NHS, Boots is about providing easy access to quality healthcare services across the UK, ensuring patients get what they need.

The Company has a key partnership with the NHS. Pharmacy leaders and the Government have agreed new ways for pharmacists to work more closely with the NHS to design new services that meet specific needs of any given community.

Many of Boots’ pharmacy teams work

closely with primary care organisations, in consumer healthcare, medical meeting local healthcare needs, and technology and beauty products. with the Company’s national voice, it is The facilities provide suitable office and helping to shape government thinking laboratory space and business support about the health of the nation. stunning surrounding for individuals or Boots is committed to extending the small teams at the very early stages role of pharmacy professionals in line of developing a business idea. with the Government priorities.

It is a sign of the progression of Boots, The team of pharmacy professionals at who is working in different partnerships Boots are passionate about providing to ensure its services continue to grow expert advice and healthcare services and and MediCity has already welcomed is proud of having great teams to deliver two waves of tenants onto the site. all its customers’ healthcare needs.

April saw the fit out in Nottingham for MediCity, which can be found on the Boots site in Beseston in Nottingham, within the Nottingham Enterprise Zone.

MediCity is a collaboration between Alliance Boots and BioCity, We are pleased to continue to support Boots the Chemist which provides a stimulating Mitten Asbestos & Environmental Consultants Limited supportive Unit 11 Woodrow Business Centre, Woodrow Way, Irlam, Manchester M44 6NN business Tel: 0161 777 8882 Fax: 0161 777 8883 development Email: info@mittenasbestos.com www.mittenasbestos.com environment for innovators

UKC LEISURE

Imperial War Museums

Commemorating First World War Centenary The transformation of the flagship Imperial War Museums (IWM) in London is less than a month from completion.

Opening to the public on 19th July, the result will be new First World War Galleries, almost twice the size of the previous ones, which will allow IWM London to display much more from its exceptional collections.

IWM is unique in its coverage of conflicts, especially those involving Britain and the Commonwealth, from the First World War to the present day. It seeks to provide for and to encourage the study and understanding of the history of modern war and wartime experience.

Its origins go way back to 1917 when the Cabinet decided that a National War Museum should be set up to collect and display material relating to the Great War, which was still being fought.

The interest taken by the Dominion governments led to the museum being given the title of Imperial War Museum and it was formally established by Act of Parliament in 1920 and a governing Board of Trustees were appointed.

The museum was opened in the Crystal Palace by King George V on 9th June 1920. From 1924 to 1935 it was housed in two galleries adjoining the former Imperial Institute, South Kensington.

On 7th July 1936 the Duke of York, shortly to become King George VI, reopened the museum in its present home, formerly the central portion of Bethlem Royal Hospital, thanks to the generosity of Lord Rothermere.

From September 1940 to November 1946, the museum was closed and vulnerable collections were evacuated to stores outside London.

Most of the exhibits survived the Second World War, but a short seaplane, which had flown at the Battle of Jutland, was

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shattered when a German bomb fell opened to the public in 1990. Now, with a on the Naval Gallery on 31st January wide range of digital technologies, IWM can 1941 and some of the naval models offer new ways of presenting content for were damaged by the blast. the visitor and put the objects into context.

At the outset of the Second World War, In the new galleries, a wealth of objects, IWM’s remit was expanded to cover both world wars and they were again extended in 1953 to include all military operations in which Britain or We can provide all your mechanical, the Commonwealth electrical and fire needs. have been involved since August 1914.

Reed M&E has had great pleasure in being involved in the First World Today, IWM’s five War Gallery at the Imperial War Museum in London. Reed M&E branches are IWM installed all of the electrical and data cabling for the exhibition fit London, with six stage of the project. levels of exhibitions and displays; IWM North, housed in This involved working closely with all trade contractors and the client an iconic building team to ensure that all requirements for power were met, including designed by power for showcase lighting, case motors, AV projectors and Daniel Libeskind; monitors.

IWM Duxford, a world renowned Reed M&E installed all lighting throughout the exhibition space, aviation museum working with DHA Lighting Design to achieve appropriate lighting and Britain’s best within the different areas of the gallery. Reed M&E also assisted DHA preserved wartime on focusing lighting. airfield; Churchill War Rooms, Churchill’s secret M&E House, 135 Red Lion Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7RQ headquarters below Whitehall, tel: 020 8397 2161 Fax: 020 8974 1542 and the Second Email: admin@reed-me.co.uk World War cruiser Website: www.reed-me.co.uk HMS Belfast.

The previous First World War Galleries at IWM London were designed in the late 1980s and

letters, photograph, film and interactive displays will be explored to tell the stories of the First World War, through the eyes of those who experienced it.

The digital teams have worked closely with historians, designers and developers to ensure that the most appropriate digital technology is used to tell the stories of the First World War in new and thought provoking ways.

Split into fourteen key story areas, the galleries will draw upon the latest historical analysis of the causes, course and consequences of this landmark conflict that claimed the lives of more than 16 million people across the globe and affected the lives of millions more.

A section of the exhibition called Life at the Front will include a recreated trench experience and is designed to evoke what it could have been like for troops living in the open. A Sopwith Camel plane and Mark V tank rising above the trench will provide a dramatic sense of scale. The Sopwith Camel plane and Mark V tank were placed in position in March this year and will now form the centrepiece of the new First World War Galleries.

Both objects had undergone conservation at IWM Duxford before going on display.

The Sopwith Camel, a lightweight aircraft, had a new suspension system installed so that it could be suspended from the ceiling in the Galleries.

While conserving the Mark V, IWM’s team of experts discovered several structural cracks,

corrosion damage on the bottom of the body of the tank and the tracks needed repair work. It took a team of four conservators a year to fully conserve this object, so it was ready to be displayed in IWM London.

In the new galleries, Mark V will be displayed at an angle, as if it is cresting the edge of a trench. Because of the age of the tank, IWM engaged with three structural engineering companies to design and build the frame that would safely display the object for a long time.

The frame, which was also used to allow the tank to be lifted into position, spreads the 23-tonne weight of the tank safely.

The size and weight of the tank meant that it had to be lifted and craned into the building.

The remaining movement and positioning of the tank was done by manual jacks and winches over a three-day period. The tank is now safely on its frame, in position with the Sopwith Camel ready for the opening of the First World War Galleries.

On reopening IWM London will also boast a transformed atrium, which was designed by Foster + Partners.

Entering the dramatic new atrium, visitors will be greeted by iconic objects including a Harrier, Spitfire and a V2 rocket and making their way up each level in the atrium, more collections will be revealed on the new terraces.

On Level 1 - Turning Points: 1934 to 1945 focuses on key moments from the Second World War. While Peace and Security: 1939 to 2014 on Level 2 tells the stories behind

how Britain and Europe re-built itself after 1945 and also reveals how conflicts have been fought and communities divided in places such as Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Finally Level 3 presents - Curiosities of War – which includes some of the more obscure objects from the collections, from the bar where the Dambusters bomber crew used to drink, through to a sofa made from security fences by troops in Afghanistan.

Grouped into thematic clusters, visitors will be able to discover the extraordinary stories of the objects themselves and the history of key events.

Collections are being reinterpreted in a more dynamic, engaging and imaginative way, drawing on the depth and breadth of IWM’s extensive collections to strengthen each story.

From the 19 July Truth and Memory: British Art of the First World War will be available for visitors to view until March 2015. The exhibition is the largest grouping of British First World War art for almost 100 years and will display paintings by artists Paul Nash, CRW Nevinson as well as sketches and drawings from soldiers on the western front.

This major retrospective will showcase some of the most compelling works of art produced during World War One and reveal how artists strived to represent the unprecedented events of the First World War. The museum will also boast a new café opening onto the Geraldine Mary Harmsworth Park and shops.

Scena are pleased to have been appointed to this prestigious “once in a lifetime” project as “setworks contractor” with responsibility for overall drawing and design co-ordination.

We are also pleased to be able to announce that we have moved to our new site in Croydon where we have increased our production facilities from 80,000sq ft. to 127,000 sq ft. and look forward to serving the Imperial War Museum in the future from our new site.

Scenery Specialists

Television, Theatre, Exhibition, Conference, Museums and Visitor Centres 12 Imperial Way

Croydon CR0 4RR

Tel. 020 7703 4444

www.scenapro.com

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UKC PROFILE

Gentoo Group

Comprising companies recognised throughout the UK Gentoo is responsible for delivering an exceptional standard of customer care; it is a diverse organisation that focuses on the key areas of people, property and planet.

There are a number of divisions within Gentoo who work collectively as one to ensure efficiency and value for customers.

The Group of companies includes divisions operating in care and support services, construction, design, build and maintenance, environmental sustainability, solar panels and specialist glass, and property rental and sales.

The sum of the Group’s component parts means that the value chain can be managed in line with the vision, values and mission.

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Its group of companies includes Gentoo Living, Gentoo Green, Gentoo Homes Ltd, Gentoo Genine Ltd, Gentoo Construction Ltd, Gentoo Sunderland Ltd, Romag Ltd, Astley Ltd and West of Scotland.

Gentoo is committed to delivering the very highest quality of construction services and work extremely hard to provide the best value for money for the clients, through the provision of a comprehensive range of services.

The construction side of the Company specialises in sustainable construction across a number of sectors including care, commercial, education, health, industrial and retail, while also specialising in low

carbon refurbishment, renewable energy, asbestos removal and minor works.

The Company’s approach to delivering a wide range of construction services is underpinned by always doing right by the customers. Gentoo’s aim is to make the buildings constructed the most advanced they can be.

In order to achieve this, the Company only recruit and retain the most talented and experienced people to ensure each project is successfully and expertly managed. Gentoo goes out of its way to exceed construction, environmental and customer service standards.

One of the things that sets Gentoo

apart from many other construction companies is its expertise in low carbon construction projects, from zero carbon housing to refurbishment projects, generating up to 80% CO2 reductions.

Combining this experience with its market leading expertise, it’s Gentoo’s vision to transform the built environment.

It is a company with high expectations and offers a one-stop-shop service, which can create a holistic approach, tailor made for each customer.

The team can see a project through from beginning to end, guaranteeing a hasslefree process and exceeding the needs of an increasingly diverse client base.

Because it is a profit for purpose organisation, whatever financial gain is made from construction projects gets reinvested back into communities in which the Company works, where it can be used most effectively to make a real difference to people’s lives.

The Company takes its social responsibility very seriously and as part of this, maintain more than 30,000 homes, while also being responsible for the management and maintenance of a large number of private and leasehold properties.

Various facilities management services have been provided to customers since 2001. To ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible, the highly trained professional staff are specialists in every aspect of the internal and external maintenance of buildings – including both major and minor repairs,

improvements and alterations.

With a dedicated team that operates from a number of regional bases, customers can be sure that the right solution will be found, whether it be addressing running day-to-day repairs or large scale planned maintenance.

A wide array of projects have been undertaken by Gentoo, and one which was completed in May will help to save hundreds of pounds a year for 100 homes in Sunderland.

The energy efficiency scheme has seen an estate in Springwell receive external wall insulation and some homes have also benefited from double glazed windows, enhancing their warmth and comfort, as well as reducing energy bills.

The project was funded by EDF Energy as part of their commitment to energy efficiency.

It was a scheme initially in the public spotlight because the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) funding originally allocated to the project was withdrawn by another supplier just two weeks before work was due to commence on site, as a result of the proposed reductions to ECO obligation nationwide.

Gentoo continued to find an alternative source of funding and, thanks to a strong working relationship with EDF Energy, were able to secure funding required to make the scheme go ahead in early January.

Allan Thompson, Managing Director of Gentoo Construction, said: “We are very pleased with the results of this

PETER CASSIDY (LEEDS) LTD

scheme – delivering a programme of this type over the winter months, especially given the timeframes involved, is challenging but we were able to deliver to the highest quality and on time.

“We are proud to receive the excellent feedback we have been given by our funding partners and customers alike and will continue to build on these strong relationships.”

Gentoo announced a solar power investment scheme in March after signing a deal with social enterprise Empower Community in a bid to provide more customers’ homes with solar energy by refinancing existing solar panels.

The deal will allow the roll out of PV panels to an additional 1,500 – 3,000 homes and provide solid financial returns for the investor with measureable social and environmental impact.

Empower Community, structured and arranged the £10.1M deal in which a large institutional pension investor will acquire the Gentoo’s existing solar photovoltaic installations on 2,327 Gentoo homes and six corporate buildings.

The deal means that Gentoo has received a lump sum to reinvest into providing solar energy to more customers, reducing the risk of fuel poverty and delivering innovative solar solutions to additional customers.

The additional benefit of this scheme is that surplus profits from the deal will be reinvested into the local community.

Empower Community Management’s Alex Grayson commented: “The beauty

Lifting Gear & Lifting Gear Hire in Leeds, Bradford, Huddersfield, Halifax & Wakefield Peter Cassidy (Leeds) ltd is a long established firm that originated in Hull in 1921 and are now based in Leeds specialising in lifting gear and serves the surrounding towns of Bradford, Huddersfield, Halifax and Wakefield.

LIFTING GEAR SINCE 1921 Holbeck Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS11 9XA

Phone: 0113 2455 457 Fax: 0113 2426 456 Email: info@petercassidy.co.uk www.petercassidy.co.uk

Our present site is on Holbeck Lane, within half a mile of the M621 and in easy access to Bradford, Huddersfield, Halifax and Wakefield areas. We offer full testing facilities, with our own 100 ton test bed and 50 tons of loose weights. As members of “The Lifting Equipment Engineers Association”, we work to the highest professional standards. From our premises, we make and repair an extensive range of lifting gear, as well as stocking plenty of lifting gear from other manufacturers.

Our experienced staff are helpful and friendly and are always on hand to help you with your requirements. Delivery of our products will usually take place within a couple of days to most places in the North.

We supply lifting gear to the Utilities and Offshore Industries, in particular, if you’re looking for lifting gear to purchase, hire or repair in Huddersfield, Halifax, Wakefield, Leeds and Bradford; give us a call today on 0113 2455 457 and speak to a member of our sales team.

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of this deal is that everybody’s interests are aligned: the investor makes solid financial returns, with measurable social and environmental impact; tenants enjoy access to free daytime power, which helps them escape fuel poverty; Gentoo enjoys an ongoing return and financing to continue their exciting developments and the community receives funding for local initiatives from the profits.”

These changes will not affect the electricity customers receive, nor will they affect the maintenance of the PV system. Customers will continue to receive free day time electricity generated by the PV system and any maintenance of the PV system will continue to be carried out by Gentoo.

Peter Walls, Chief Executive of Gentoo Group, added: “We’re always looking for new ways to make a positive difference and influence change – this innovative deal with Empower Community does just that.

“Fuel poverty is a genuine concern with rising energy costs – ‘heat or eat’ is a reality that many vulnerable individuals in our society are now facing. This is a unique way to deliver more solar solutions to our customers, at no cost, with the additional benefits that the local community fund will bring.”

The Company has been appointed by specialist care provider Careline Lifestyles to build a £5M care facility in Hartlepool.

This state-of-the-art specialist care facility will provide residential and

nursing care to adults from Hartlepool the Considerate Constructors Scheme and Teesside suffering from acquired (CCS) – which works to improve the or traumatic brain injuries and complex image of construction in the UK. learning and physical disabilities.

Allan Thompson, Managing Director Heart Lodge will support up to 46 people of Gentoo Construction, said: “Gentoo with 20 ensuite bedrooms, 15 one-bed Construction models itself on high apartments, three one-bed bungalows standards and I am delighted these two and four two-bed bungalows. sites have received this recognition.

Facilities within the home will include “It’s thanks to the dedication of the a hydrotherapy pool, creative suite passionate staff we have across all our with interactive whiteboards, training sites that Gentoo Construction is able to kitchens, sensory rooms, café bars, accept such high standards as normal sensory garden and a winter garden practice and we hope to be winning many enabling people to participate in the more of these awards in the future.” transitional pathway where they are supported to develop their daily living skills to become more independent.

Some of Gentoo’s more recent projects have been recognised at the National Site Awards.

Gentoo’s own Planet Smart affordable housing development in Ryhope Village, Sunderland and an affordable housing development in Ashington, Northumberland Unit 383c Jedburgh Court Team Valley Trading Estate Gateshead NE11 OBQ which has been Phone: 0191 487 9211 - Fax: 0191 491 4381 built for Bernicia Email: info@malonesgroup.co.uk Group, have been www.malonesgroup.co.uk commended by

DEAN STUBBS Ltd. We are pleased to be associated with Gentoo and wish them continued success for the future 2 Waldron Square, Sunderland, SR2 7UX

T: 0191 564 1442 M: 07887 738323 Email: stubbsroofing@gmail.com

Drylining ● Plastering ● Screeding ● Rendering Partitioning ● MF Ceilings Office 13, Abbey Business Centre, Abbey Road, Pity Me, Durham DH1 5JZ

Tel - 07833 534931 and 0191 3753936 Email info@acsplasteringltd.co.uk Web: www.acsplasteringltd.co.uk

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The very best service

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Bartram Flooring Services Ltd

Established in 2001, Bartram Flooring Services Ltd has been providing businesses, retail, homes, hotels and restaurants with expert flooring advice, design and installation.

Whether you are after a commercial or a domestic flooring service, we will be with you every step of the journey. Choose from the leading flooring manufacturers teamed with the premier installers to achieve floor coverings that are not only beautiful but also practical, functional and enviable!

Our design team can work with you to achieve a look that you will love - at a competitive price. All of our craftsmen are time served and are covered by our quality guarantee - meaning that we take care of your job from start to finish.

2 Cambria Street Sunderland SR2 0LT Tel: 0191 5345340 info@bartramflooringservices.co.uk www.bartramflooringservices.co.uk

Castle Decorators are delighted to be associated with Gentoo.

Here are some kind comments from Gentoo’s Contracts Manager, Project Managers and Quantity Surveyor: Andrew Price, Quantity Surveyor (Gentoo) I have worked with Castle Decorators on various projects throughout the last ten years with values ranging from 10k to 150k.

They provide a first rate service in terms of workmanship and quality and deliver a service/product to exceed customer expectations.

They are commercially aware and understand the importance of completing on time and within the financial constraints determined by the client.

They offer a proactive approach in offering professional advice and specialist knowledge to achieve client satisfaction.

Alan McInory, Contracts Manager (Gentoo) I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your hard work in delivering PH” on Stonefolds.

This was a particularly challenging programme and, at times, ‘mission impossible’, particularly the decoration as you are the last trade and, at times, other trades where still in operation and hindering your progress.

Even with this difficult task, you managed to complete on time and to a high standard, with the show homes receiving excellent feedback.

Images from show homes at Stonefolds Castle Decorators also undertake work for: Persimmon - Charles Church - DWH - Barratt Vinci Construction - Meldrums Construction Sunters Ltd - Bullock Construction 18 Douglas Way, Murton, County Durham SR7 9HX

Tel/Fax: 0191 517 2667 Email: castledecorators.ne.ltd@gmail.com www.castledecorators.org.uk

Mike Simpson, Project Manager (Gentoo) In the many years I have used Castle Decorators on my schemes, I have found them to be a helpful and co-operative sub contractor that goes that extra mile to deliver schemes on programme and to a high quality expected, often working unsociable hours.

They have a dedicated customer care operative that shows pride in his work and respects peoples’ homes and Lee Arrowsmith, M.D., always fulfills our sometimes demanding requirements Keith Fishburn, Project Manager (Gentoo) I have been in construction for 43 years and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate yourself and your workforce.

Gentoo, in my opinion, have taken on board one of the most helpful and quality contractors I have ever had the pleasure of working with in all my years in this industry.

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UKC EDUCATION

Weydon School

Major redevelopment to accommodate increased numbers A major development is under way at Weydon School to allow for increased pupil numbers by 2016.

The origins of the scheme started in 2009 when the school was approached

by Surrey County Council about taking additional numbers because of the anticipated increase in pupils by 2016.

Expected to be at around 300 extra children, it resulted in a review of building stock, which saw a proposal put forward for an expansion of the school.

Comprising five phases, the process includes expanding and installing new classrooms.

Work is almost complete on Phase I, which focuses on enabling works to fulfil the expansion of the infrastructure.

A larger dining room is being installed which will double up as a flexible learning and exhibition space.

It not only serves the function of fulfilling the need to accommodate the pupils

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during the break period, but it also provides additional lesson space during lesson time.

New changing rooms are being included into the sports hall and this will then release the existing changing rooms at the centre of the school and away from the sports facilities.

This space can be used as part of the infrastructure for additional learning space and staff rooms.

With currently only two changing rooms, this is a particular necessity.

In addition, there will be a gym and a specific PE department office to accommodate up to 12 staff members.

With the school expected to educate in the region of 1,500 pupils at any given time, the amount of recreational space is important. As a result, the school will have all-weather pitches using the latest 3G technology, which are FIFA and IRB approved.

The result is the school will be able to use

large areas of the fields all year, which can be used for PE lessons and split into two pitches for rugby or football use, and there will be six new tennis courts.

Phase II will be a performing arts centre with a 310 seat theatre and rehearsal studio, along with two drama suites. There will also be two general purpose classrooms.

Phase III is being designed and will expand the teaching facilities - a 22-classroom block for languages and humanities.

After this, Phase IV will extend an existing building for the English block and the final phase will refurbish other buildings, which will include special education needs, music and science classrooms over a three-year programme that will be complete in September 2016.

The ÂŁ13M project has been designed and managed by WSW Consultancy Limited.

The first phase of the scheme is being built by Deeks & Steere.

Cardinals

Decorating Contractors Call us on: 07808 849844 We are pleased to be associated with the Weydon School Development and wish all involved continued success

20 Park Rd, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 3PU Email: thecardinals@fsmail.net

Sixth form extension Work to extend the facilities at a school in Belvedere has now been completed.

The project for Trinity Church of England School has provided a brand new block added onto the school which will be used mainly for sixth form.

It is required because the school was previously over capacity and this building will allow room to be made for everyone.

It is built on the site of Oaks Cottage but because this building was hardly used, it was decided to remove it to make better use of the space.

This was then demolished and in its place is approximately 1,300sq m of new teaching space with a dedicated drama studio and a big open space that gives the sixth form students a place to themselves.

In addition to all this, the building can act as a place for exam space.

The Main Contractor for the project was Beardwell Construction, whose priority is a commitment to each client to provide a professional, high quality service delivered with integrity and honesty.

The steel frame was erected by Christmas 2013 and the two-storey building has concrete slabs for floors

EDUCATION UKC

Trinity Church of England School that sit on top of steel decks. On the first floor is a Metsec frame and the ground floor is all brick and blockwork.

A watermain is present close to the site which wasn’t initially detected and as a result, delayed the project. This was constantly monitored for months and an external staircase had to be moved to make it internal because it was too close to the watermain.

Everything involved in the project was done to maintain NCC Mechanical Services Limited lower energy costs Unit 9 Redhills Road, South Woodham Ferrers and make energy Essex CM3 5UL savings. This includes sun pipes T: 01245 426667 F: 01245 426668 that reflect natural enquiries@ncclimited.co.uk sunlight through www.nccmechanicalservices.co.uk tubes and into the first floor corridor.

Designed by Ingleton Wood, NCC has been established for 20 years undertaking commercial heating, work started in plumbing, ventilation, air conditioning and renewable energy May 2013 and installations. The company trades in Essex and the surrounding counties was completed and undertakes mechanical services work for main building contractors and direct clients such as the NHS and Essex County Council. in July 2014, at a cost of ÂŁ2.7M.

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UKC PROFILE

Thomas Armstrong Group

Over 180 years of excellence Established in 1830, the Thomas Armstrong Group has over 180 years of expertise and growth in construction services and in the manufacture of quality building products.

In that time, the Company has built up long-term relationships and a reputation for giving the customer what they want, which has been key to its longevity as well as continual expansion and diversification.

The Group has continued to innovate and embrace the ever changing opportunities presented in today’s world and has successfully entered into both partnering and Public Finance Initiative agreements in the past.

A multi-million pound investment has been made in the manufacture of aerated building blocks at Catterick in North Yorkshire, which has expanded and enhanced the Group’s portfolio of building products.

In mid-2007, Thomas Armstrong acquired two further well established and respected companies; Stocks Blocks Ltd in Leeds, manufacturer of high quality concrete blocks and CHC Floors Ltd in Manchester, a manufacturer of precast, pre-stressed concrete floor panels and beams.

As a diverse and widespread organisation, the Group is aware of the potential impact that its operations may have on the environment and is continually assessing this with a view to minimising any effects.

The Thomas Armstrong Group is fully committed to minimising the impact of all its operations on the environment.

This commitment includes using the latest, low energy manufacturing technology, sourcing of local raw materials, supporting local economies and jobs, minimising waste produced through its processes, and the continual improvement of environmental performance.

The Company has taken on a whole host of projects, with one at Wanlass Howe in Ambleside providing a mix of social housing for rent, shared ownership properties and homes for private sale in the Lake District National Park.

Designed by Architects Plus, the

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development consists of 23 homes, with five four-bedroom detached homes, three three-bedroom detached homes, eight three-bedroom semi-detached homes, two end of terrace two-bedroom and one mid terrace two-bedroom homes, as well as two end of terrace three-bedroom homes and one mid terrace three-bedroom home.

Given the Lakeland setting, it was appropriate to use a palette of local materials, particularly on roofs that are very prominent looking down the site.

The majority of the walls have roughest render with smooth render bands.

Smaller elements of random coursed local stone have added interest.

Matching stone has been used on boundary and retaining walls with the intent on ensuring that the building sit within the site and become part of the landscape.

Now complete, the scheme adheres to the requirements of Part M in respect to ambulatory disabled users.

Thomas Armstrong is also working on a scheme to replace an existing William Rainford Ltd concrete block plant in Aintree with a brand new multi-million pound turnkey facility using the very latest stateof-the-art technology.

This high tech, high volume facility is replacing the existing plant and will more than double production

capacity, while significantly expanding the range of products manufactured.

The very latest energy conservation technologies are being utilised throughout the facility including an advanced ‘hot box’ humidity controlled curing system designed to maximise the effectiveness of the natural ambient curing of blocks.

This commitment to the very best quality products that meet customer requirements and minimise environmental impact has served Thomas Armstrong well since its establishment.

PROFILE UKC

Galliford Try

Benefiting from continued business growth With 4,000 members of staff, Galliford Try is a FTSE 250 housebuilding and construction group that delivers industry leading performance in constructing a sustainable future.

The hybrid model of housebuilding and construction businesses, reinforced by the vast experience and unmatched competencies in regeneration, facilities management and PPP investments enables Galliford Try to undertake the most complex of projects.

The strength of the Group continues to grow, as this year has seen strong progress, particularly in housebuilding where market conditions continue to improve.

During the spring selling season, Linden Homes experienced strong levels of reservations, with sales prices improving above management levels.

The margin enhancement programme is also progressing on plan, and the division has made further progress at the operating margin level.

Galliford Try Partnerships, realigned from 1st January 2014 into the Housebuilding Division, is also experiencing strong demand for contracting and mixed tenure projects.

In construction, the order book has grown and increased levels of opportunities are becoming available across the whole business.

The Division is winning work with appropriate margin and inflation protection and continues its focus on risk management and cash, which have been robust in the period.

All of Galliford Try’s businesses, in common with the industry, continue to experience challenging production conditions, with supply of both labour and materials constrained by strong demand; however these conditions are stabilising and the Company continue to manage them proactively.

The order book has improved, with figures of £1.3Bn, and 80% of next year’s revenues have already been secured. In addition, all business units are experiencing an increase in opportunities, cash performance is still strong and there is a continuing

focus on risk management and margin. again by G4S and the Ministry of One of the developments that Galliford Justice following the successful Try is currently working on is under completion of Phase I at HMP Parc. way in Bridgend, which will provide “This contract demonstrates the difference a £35M expansion of Parc Prison. our proactive approach to partnering with The work will mean that the jail’s capacity our clients and delivering their requirements will increase by 387 prisoners to 1,723. makes in a competitive market place.”

This expansion work will include a new Designed by HLN Architects, the work is house block, an industrial workshop, expected to be completed ready for extra education building, visitor centre and prisoners to arrive by December 2014. gatehouse. A 350-space car park is also included, and work will also see extended Galliford Try, Cowley Business Park, perimeter walls and security fencing.

Cowley, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 2AL A total of 78 jobs are expected to be created thanks to this expansion.

David Morgan, Managing Director of G4S Care & Justice Services, said: “This is an exciting time for the team at Parc, and we are pleased to have been selected to deliver this project We are pleased to have been the main supplier of on behalf of the Ministry of Justice. prison grilles, cell doors, windows & other security “As well as providing new jobs metalwork, to Galliford Try and look forward to for the area, the new house block, working with them in the future. when completed, will allow more prisoners to be located nearer to their homes and families, which has been proven to be GAME Engineering Ltd. an important factor Camp Road, Witham St Hughs Business Park in helping prisoners Witham St Hughs, Lincoln LN6 9TW in their rehabilitation on release.”

Galliford Try Tel: 01522 868021 Fax: 01522 868027 Chief Executive sales@game-security.com Greg Fitzgerald, added: “We are www.game-security.com delighted to have been selected

53

UKC PROFILE

McCarthy & Stone

New retirement apartments A retirement property in Warwickshire has been completed and has seen apartments quickly occupied.

Based on Waverley Road in Kenilworth, the development has been undertaken by and for McCarthy & Stone, who specialise in creating beautiful, quality new homes.

The Company provide bespoke developments in prime locations around the country - from city to coast to countryside.

Its very first retirement apartment was built in 1977 and today, McCarthy & Stone is the UK’s number one retirement developer, providing 70% of the UK’s privately owned retirement accommodation.

The Waverley Road project comprises of three-storeys and has resulted in the construction of 22 apartments.

Before work could begin on the site, which is in the town centre, demolition had to be undertaken to remove the two bungalows previously occupying the site.

A mixture of one- and two-bed apartments, the development comprises of ten Newton blocks, brick face elevations along with K-rendered elevations. There are normal tiles, underfloor heating, and with regards to sustainability, the development uses an air source heat pump.

As with all McCarthy & Stone projects, provisions have been made for the disabled. This is in the way of wider doors, a lift, and residents are able to have other disabled features installed if required. For example, there is a communal toilet, and disabled features can be incorporated into this at the request of the house manager.

All apartments are equipped with fire and burglar alarms and the development has benefited from a block paved car park as well as soft landscaping in the way of trees, bushes, and a slabbed area in the communal garden.

Construction of this project wasn’t without its obstacles. In order for the contractors

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to bring in wagons, part of a neighbouring with a five-star award from customers bush had to be removed. But this was through independent customer satisfaction resolved by paying the neighbour affected, surveys undertaken by the Home Builders who also received refurbishment of Federation (HBF) and The National House the front garden with block paving.

Building Council (NHBC) - all independently McCarthy & Stone also had to leave some audited by the University of Reading. trees standing prior to the commencement of construction, as they had preservation orders on them, but this didn’t affect the development process.

Designed and built

by McCarthy & Stone, work on the £1.6M project started in February Electric Underfloor and Ceiling Heating Specialists since 1959 2013 and the first apartments were occupied ESWA Ltd is the UK’s longest established Electric floor heating

by April 2014. company, having been in The popularity of continuous operation since 1959. the properties and ESWA’s 50 plus years of business location meant that have given us an unmatched level it was quite a fast of knowledge and expertise. selling site, with There are thousands of ESWA lots of interest in installations across the UK in many it. This is signified different types of buildings. With by the fact that their range of products, all manufactured to the highest five people moved standards, ESWA are able to offer in within the first an effective heating solution for three weeks. most situations.

If the development is half as successful as previous ESWA LTD, McCarthy & Stone 70 Woolmer Way, Bordon, Hampshire, GU35 9QF retirement homes, Tel: 01420 476 049 Fax: 04120 472 246 it will be highly thought of indeed, Email: info@eswa.co.uk as the Company has, for the ninth Website: www.eswa.co.uk year running, been recognised

EDUCATION UKC

Abbot’s Hall Community Primary School Conversion to an all-through primary school An exciting project to create an allthrough is well under way in Suffolk.

Abbot’s Hall Community Primary School is currently for children aged between four and nine, but by the beginning of the new school year, children will stay until year five and from September 2015, the school will cater for all children of primary school age.

It is an extremely well resourced school, with an ICT suite, mobile laptop trolley, astroturf, forest classroom and refurbished early years area.

Based on Danescourt Avenue, the school is located next to the Museum of East Anglian Life, enjoying a picturesque rural setting, while still being right in the heart of Stowmarket.

Abbot’s Hall is one of three schools in the area planning increases in pupil numbers after the local Middle Schools closed. in order to accommodate the additional children, the school has needed a new block of four classrooms, toilets, breakout areas and group areas.

The school promoted this work earlier this year at a special day where the construction

Designed by Concertus, the roof was teams delivered workshops for the children installed on the extension in March and Mrs Bailey, the school headteacher, said: “This has been a remarkable day of and the Main Contractor for the project learning and enjoyment for all of the school. is Cocksedge Building Contractors Ltd, who has more than 75 years of “We know the day has not only enhanced experience and will ensure the project the feeling of ownership of our new is completed to the highest standards. building with our young learners, but we also hope that they have acquired a greater understanding of all that it takes to design and construct a new Professional scaffolding erection services building.”

Looking for a reliable scaffolding service?

The work will see H T Scaffolding is an independent, family run scaffolding company offering scaffolding the creation of a erection and hire services across East Anglia. new foundation Our company has built a reputation across stage and year Suffolk and the surrounding areas from offering a reliable, efficient and friendly one block, and service to our customers in both the domestic will also see the and commercial sector. establishment of 135 Cordell Place,Long Melford,Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 9EN Telephone:01787 320 898 Office:01787 313 968 a new entrance/ Mobile:07989 393 756 exit route via the Email:info@htscaffolding-suffolk.co.uk school’s Blue www.htscaffolding-suffolk.co.uk Sky classroom.

HT Scaffolding

EDUCATION UKC

City of Oxford College Bringing learning and employment together This September will see the opening of a lifestyle centre that will offer students a new type of learning environment.

City of Oxford College is redeveloping its city campus to create the complex, which will bring together a new fitness suite, hair and beauty salons together with a café, gallery, function room and outside space fronting the river.

The lifestyle centre will be run on the college’s learning company model, whereby students work in live commercial environments, alongside professionals from industry, as an integral part of their studies.

Students studying hair and beauty will hone their skills by working in the salons, while students enrolled on sport and exercise science courses will staff the gym and students in hospitality and catering will operate the café facility.

Industry partners will support the development of the curriculum.

All facilities will be open to the public, with the salons and gym opening during the evening, weekends and holidays in line with other commercial operations.

Such a development means there has

“The centre will bring together learning and never been a more exciting time to study at employment more closely than ever before, the City of Oxford College, because of the and we look forward to welcoming the first investment in new facilities and use of the very latest technology to support learning. students to the centre in September.”

Ian Francis, Principal of City of Oxford The Main Contractor for the project is Kingerlee.

College, said: “This exciting scheme will transform the city centre campus and give our students access to some of the most contemporary learning and work environments Offering complete industrial & commercial interior solutions from design to handover. around.

“We believe that Our experience, expertise and cost-effectiveness is your this will offer guarantee of a successful project. When you require a professional service and a competitive quotation, contact students fast and Tapper Interiors. direct pathways Our products and services include: into employment, by enabling them Suspended Ceilings - Partitions - Dry Wall Lining to develop skills Mezzanine Floors - Carpentry And Joinery Electrical And Plumbing Services and knowledge Ceramic Wall And Floor Tiling - Floor Coverings relevant for their Whiterock Cladding Systems - Metsec industry along Unit 1F, Vantage Business Park, Bloxham Road, Banbury, OX16 9UX with the personal call 01295 221240 attributes that can Email: sales@tapperinteriors.co.uk only be developed Web: www.tapperinteriors.co.uk in commercial contexts.

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UKC PROFILE

St Mary’s; Oldham

Nicol Thomas Ltd

space of the homes. Four of the units were designed for wheelchair users.

The St Mary’s development has received extremely positive press, with the Passivhaus in particular being featured on Sky News, BBC North West News and BBC Radio 4 ‘You and Yours’ programme.

In 2013, Inside Housing magazine voted the development one of its top 50 affordable housing schemes in the country.

Providing intelligent design for a better way of living Nicol Thomas is a multi-disciplinary practice delivering consultancy services nationally from offices at Fort Dunlop, Birmingham and Oldham, Greater Manchester.

The professional services provided include architecture and master planning, quantity surveying and project management, building surveying, code assessors and CDM coordinators across a broad range of sectors.

Services are provided in a whole host of sections, including retirement village and extra care, residential, retail, commercial and industrial, education, health, public, heritage and conservation.

The Practice can boast technical teams dedicated to the production of planning and working drawings for each sector, and with expertise and experience bringing best practice benefits to every commission, customers know they are in the best hands.

Project procurement routes vary from traditional architect-led contracts to design and build, and management contracts.

The Practice often assists contractor-led consortium tender opportunities with technical design development and the subsequent post contract drawings.

In addition, Nicol Thomas can offer in-house sustainability expertise and has designed projects through to Construction to BREEAM Excellent and Code for Sustainable Homes Level 6.

Nicol Thomas can provide accurate and detailed cost advice to clients, which includes detailed cost analysis of design options, commercial appraisals for funding applications, whole life costings, cash flow projections, value engineering and budgetary control.

The Practice has a number of high profile developments. These include:

St Mary’s, Oldham.

Client: Contour Homes This award winning development of 93 family homes includes Code for Sustainable Homes Level 6 and Passivhaus dwellings; the first in the North West.

The combination of Code Level 3, Level 6 and Passivhaus dwellings in one development required a high level of design and detailing, with emphasis on co-ordination and quality control on site.

The client, Contour Homes, required a contemporary design and the local planning authority demanded a strong urban design presence, together with public open space within the scheme.

Valued at circa £13M, Nicol Thomas were novated to the Main Contractor to assist the completion of the project, which also complies with Lifetime Homes and allows for further expansion into the roof

The development has been nominated for several awards, with recent accolades received for: ••Royal Town Planning Institute North West Awards 2013 Winner of the Sustainable Communities and Regeneration category and Overall winner of the Planning Achievement award.

••LABC Building Excellence North West Awards 2014 Winner of Best Social or Affordable New Housing Development.

Hagley Road, Birmingham

Client: The ExtraCare Charitable Trust Nicol Thomas provided an Architectural and Employer’s Agent service for this 240 apartment extra care development with communal facilities.

This was to become a flagship development as part of Birmingham City Council’s Commissioning Strategy for Older People (2005-2010) initiative and has been featured on national television.

The design incorporates a traditional ‘villa’ approach along the main route into Birmingham, contrasting with a more contemporary rotunda element which

Jack Lunn Ltd – Main Building Contractors RBA Moody Bros (Contractors) Ltd pride ourselves on being one of the premier building contractors in Yorkshire, unique in combining experience and family values with innovation and high quality as well as modern building methods.

We are pleased to be associated with Nicol Thomas and wish them continued success

We wish them future success and for continual working partnerships.

Binks Close, Standard Way Business Park, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL6 2YB

Progress House, 99 Bradford Road, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS28 6AT

Tel: +44(0)1609 772207, Fax: +44(0)1609 779349

www.moody-construction.co.uk 56

Jack Lunn Ltd are proud to be associated with Nicol Thomas, we are presently working on a live scheme comprising of 29 new build dwellings, whereby Nicol Thomas are acting as Clients Agent & Code for Sustainable Assessor, each discipline are very professional and have a good working relationship at all levels.

Tel: 0113 236 2777 Fax: 0113 236 2888 admin@jacklunn.co.uk www.jacklunn.co.uk

Hagley Road; Birmingham

identifies the communal facilities.

The residential wings are connected to the communal hub by glazed links, an atria or a winter garden, which provide natural lighting and ventilation.

Town centre redevelopment, Shirley

Client: Shirley Advance This major £40M town centre redevelopment is a joint venture between Solihull Borough Council and Helical and is operating under the name of Shirley Advance.

The main objective for the project was the need to retain the retail attraction of Shirley, especially with the competing new

Event Control Suite; Birmingham

developments in neighbouring boroughs.

Nicol Thomas has been involved from the initial concept through public inquiry, assisting the client with complex compulsory purchase orders, right through to the implementation stage.

The development consists of a 70,000sq ft unit for Asda, additional 65,000sq ft retail units, 200 residential units and provision for 600 cars in an underground basement car park.

Event Control Suite, Birmingham

command centre for the co-ordination and control of major national incidents and events, the facility was completed to be ready for the Pope’s visit to Birmingham and the Conservative Party Conference one month later.

The design and orientation had to minimise the threat of terrorism and the building is partly dug into the site reducing the visual impact.

Nicol Thomas Ltd Heyside House, Blackshaw Lane Heyside, Royton, Oldham. OL2 6NS. Tel: 01706 290088

Client: West Midlands Police Commissioned by West Midlands Police to be its main silver/gold

LEISURE UKC

Grosvenor Park Restoration of Chester beauty spot Work on the Grosvenor Park restoration project in Chester has now been completed, restoring it to a high quality, well used and vibrant city centre park that will welcome people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Benefiting from a £2.3M grant from the Heritage Lottery Parks and People fund, Grosvenor Park celebrates its cultural heritage while providing activities to meet the needs of today’s users.

Designed by Purcell, the main construction work saw the remodelling, restoration and extension to the Grade II listed Park Lodge to include a cafe and first floor meeting rooms for community use.

An old toilet block was removed and there is now a new training and events pavilion, including toilets, built in the architectural style of John Douglas, the original Grosvenor Park architect.

In addition, there are landscape improvements such as the restoration of the park’s perimeter walls, gates, steps and footpaths, some tree work, parkland planting and a new natural play area near the miniature railway.

The landscape design has opened up views and planting plans have been restored, while the work has seen the resurfacing of all the paths including a new accessible path in the southern end of the park.

Before any of this could take place, enabling works were undertaken, which saw archaeological trial pits around the Park Lodge and the new training/events pavilion and toilets.

There was a CCTV survey of the existing drainage, which also saw the existing underground services located.

Careful removal of vegetation and ivy took place around Park Lodge and regular tree maintenance works, which included the trimming of the hollies and branch

works to the limes also took place.

This happened early last year when it was outside bird nesting season, together with the removal of the trees already agreed with Cheshire West and Chester Council planning department.

Built by Balfour Beatty, the project was completed in spring 2014.

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Robust, functional but beautiful

A GIBRALTAR INDUSTRIES COMPANY

www.expandedmetalcompany.co.uk

Who we are...

As the pioneer of expanded metal mesh production, established for over 120 years, The Expanded Metal Company enjoys unrivalled expertise and understanding of expanded metal production techniques, capabilities and applications.

We are constantly pushing boundaries and developing new patterns, products and applications to increase awareness and raise the profile of expanded metal throughout industries by improving existing products and opening new markets up to the benefits of expanded metal mesh. Our strengths stem from a committed, skilled and knowledgeable workforce coupled with world class machinery, providing us with unsurpassed engineering and technical support. New products and markets are driven by our dedicated sales and marketing teams. The Expanded Metal Company is a major force in new market and product development.

Key benefits of working with The Expanded Metal Company include the availability of a wide range of materials and patterns in standard specifications, combined with a willingness to embrace bespoke new product development. The diverse range of products and industries served, ensure that we remain in touch with our customer and market needs, to ensure strong future growth.

Tel: +44 (0) 1429 867388 Fax: +44 (0) 1429 866795 Email: sales@exmesh.co.uk

A GIBRALTAR INDUSTRIES COMPANY

UKC COMMENT

Play by the rules

We should pay careful attention to what the contract says about the content and service of notices Many construction contracts will contain specific provisions relating to notices.

Falling down on a technicality as to the content or service of such notices may have serious consequences.

In University of Brighton v Dovehouse Interiors Ltd [2014] EWHC 940 (TCC) the notice provisions in the JCT Intermediate Building Contract came under the judicial microscope.

You may be confident that you know what they mean.

Well, here were two parties and two sets of lawyers who saw the provisions rather differently.

The notice in question was a notice of adjudication. It was not served at the address as specified in the contract and it wrongly identified the Adjudicator nominating body.

The provisions read: ‘1.7.1 Any notice or other communication between the Parties, or by or to the Architect/Contract Administrator or Quantity Surveyor, that is expressly referred to in the Agreement or these Conditions (including, without limitation, each application, approval, consent, confirmation, counternotice, decision, instruction or other notification) shall be in writing.

1.7.3 Subject to clause 1.7.2 and 1.7.4, any notice, communication or document may be given or served by any effective means and shall be duly given or served if delivered by hand or sent by pre-paid post to a) The recipient’s address stated in the Contract Particulars, or to such other address as the recipient may from time to time notify to the sender; or b) If no such address is then current, the recipient’s last known principal business

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address or (where a body corporate) its registered or principal office.

This was important because the notice needed to be served to avoid a final certificate becoming conclusive.

Was a notice of adjudication a ‘notice expressly referred to in the Agreement or Conditions’?

The judge was not persuaded that it was.

Was service at an address other than those referred to in clause 1.7.3 good?

‘Yes’ said the judge - look at the word ’and’ in the second line.

On such niceties success or failure rested.

In Obrascon Huarte Lain SA v HM Attorney General for Gibraltar [2014] EWHC 940 (TCC) the notice in question was a termination notice. Termination is always a risky business because getting it wrong can put you in the firing line for a damages claim. Again the notice was not sent to the address stipulated in the contract. Again the party giving the notice got away with it.

All of this tells us that it is important to pay careful attention to provisions like these when entering into contracts and when operating them. When entering into the contract you should ask yourself whether the provision is clear beyond argument. If the answer is ‘no’, then make it so. Is the provision appropriate and workable in the context of the particular project? Are the timescales stipulated realistic and appropriate?

Is it clear how time is calculated? Are periods to be calculated in calendar days or working days? What about bank holidays and Christmas breaks?

Finally, is it clear what the notice must contain?

Once the project is underway, make sure that all relevant people know what the notice requirements are and what they apply to. Bear in mind that the provisions addressing respectively: the matter in respect of which notice is to be given, the form and content of notices, and service and timing do not always appear in the same place.

The key to success is very simple: read the contract carefully, make sure it is clear and do exactly what it says.

Kasia Dickson

Modern air conditioning not only has to deliver comfortable living and working environments but must also meet increasingly exacting demands for aesthetics, says Martin Passingham, Product Manager, DX at Daikin UK Consumers and companies are becoming increasingly design-savvy and demanding of the products they buy and air conditioning is no exception. The form of air conditioning units is becoming as equally important as their function. Reflecting the taste of a home owner or the brand and image of a business is a key element of the specification process.

As a result, manufacturers are now creating air conditioning systems that enhance, rather than detract from, modern interiors.

These new units are not only highly efficient and user-friendly, delivering comfortable living and working environments, but also make a design statement.

Manufacturers are also considering the individual demands of different countries and regions in the design of certain products.

In the past, some systems manufactured outside of Europe have not been completely suited to European markets. While they are compliant, indoor units can be difficult to incorporate in standard designs and may not be to different tastes. For example, black is seen as the colour of luxury in the Middle East but in Europe it is more common to see white interiors, with understated fixtures and fittings.

Daikin Europe was one of the first to design, develop and manufacture products in Europe, for the European market, establishing the EMEA Development Centre (EDC) at its Headquarters in Ostend, Belgium in 2011.

The EDC works with product designers to ensure its innovative technology comes in the most attractive packages.

The latest result is the second generation of Daikin Emura, a sleek and aerodynamically designed unit aimed firmly at the European market.

A well-designed exterior is not enough, however. Air conditioning units also have to be efficient, easy to use and deliver comfortable living or working environments, regardless of how hot or cold it is outside.

The Emura’s discreet sensor is able to detect movement in the room and adjust comfort levels in terms of temperature control and airflow direction, avoiding uneven climates, uncomfortable drafts and saving energy.

The system directs warm air towards the floor to ensure even temperature distribution throughout the room and from floor to ceiling by working in three dimensions. The unit reaches a high SEER of up to A+++ and SCOP up to A++. Emura is also quiet, with sound levels as low as 19dBA. Air quality is another factor, particularly in business environments, as it has been linked to productivity and concentration levels. The latest indoor units are fitted with self-cleaning filters that trap microscopic airborne dust particles; absorb organic contaminants, such as bacteria and viruses and even neutralise odours that circulate cleaner, purified air.

The control of air conditioning systems

COMMENT UKC

Redesigning efficiency

has taken some big steps in recent years too, as manufacturers strive to make systems as easy as possible to use. Along with programmable timers, night time modes and scheduling for holidays and weekends, are also possible. Over the last 12 months or so, manufacturers have begun to offer units that can be controlled via a home or business’ Wi-Fi network and remotely via smartphone apps.

Systems like Daikin Emura are perfect for both residential and light commercial environments such as individual offices, art galleries and retail stores, where design and performance are extremely important.

For larger applications, up to nine Daikin Emura units can be linked to a VRV system, providing climate control in public areas, individual offices and open plan areas.

The latest generation of air conditioning units demonstrates that intelligent design can be both aesthetically appealing and deliver superior energy efficiency in climate control. Products such as Daikin Emura, which recently won the world-renowned 2014 red dot award for product design, offering project managers climate control solutions that enhance both home and business environments and deliver the highest levels of comfort and efficiency. www.daikin.co.uk

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velux.co.uk/modularskylights

www.rwmexhibition.com/conm