The Construction Insight
With over £6 billion in cover placed across more than 7,000 projects, We are a trusted partner for self-builders, small contractors and large firms.
One thing has never changed - Our commitment to protecting your project from start to finish.
The Construction Insight
We are thrilled to introduce The Construction Insight, the UK’s newest magazine dedicated to the construction industry. This publication has been put together by experts, for experts, to serve as a collaborative platform where knowledge is shared, innovation is celebrated and industry leaders are brought together.
At The Construction Insight, we understand the challenges and opportunities shaping today’s construction landscape. Whether you’re a builder, developer, contractor or supplier, our mission is to provide you with practical expertise, real-world solutions and thought-provoking insights that make a tangible difference to your work.
Each issue is designed to reflect the heartbeat of the industry, featuring in-depth articles, project showcases and exclusive interviews with the people driving construction forward. From the latest advancements in materials and technology to strategies for overcoming industry challenges, we aim to deliver content that is as dynamic and impactful as the sector itself.
Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, The Construction Insight fosters meaningful connections across the UK’s construction community. This isn’t just a magazine, it’s a resource, a partner and a platform to empower professionals and businesses alike.
We’re proud to launch this first edition and look forward to building a brighter, more innovative future with you. Together, let’s push boundaries, share ideas and drive excellence in construction.
Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey. We’re confident you’ll find inspiration, practical takeaways and opportunities to connect within these pages.
Welcome to the start of something truly transformative.
A Day of Celebration: 10 Years of Advantage
It’s not every day that you get to celebrate 10 years in business, and at Advantage, the Directors wanted to make sure this milestone was something special. Earlier this year, the entire Advantage team came together for a day of reflection, fun and excitement to mark their 10th anniversary.
Advantage’s St. Helens team comes together for lunch to celebrate the milestone.
After all, the past 10 years have been just the beginning. Now, Advantage looking ahead to the next decade with anticipation and ambition, ready to continue building trust with our clients and providing the insurance solutions they need to keep their projects moving forward.
From its head office in St Helens to regional offices in London, Birmingham, Belfast and beyond, every member of the team joined in the celebrations. It was a day to reflect on how far the business has come but also to look forward to the exciting projects and opportunities still ahead.
The day kicked off with breakfast pastries and a lot of smiles as the team reminisced about their journey with Advantage. For some, the day was a reminder of the early years - back when the company was just starting out and was working with its first clients. For others, it was a chance to share stories of how it has expanded over the years, opening new offices and taking on larger, more complex projects.
By midday, the celebration was in full swing with a pizza lunch that brought everyone together. But this wasn’t just about celebrating the company’s success. It was about recognising the hard work, dedication and passion of every team member who has contributed to that success. The mood was light, but the sense of pride was tangible.
In the afternoon, Advantage sweetened the celebrations with a visit from an ice cream van in St Helens, treating staff to their favourite flavours. As everyone enjoyed the afternoon sun and reflected on the day, it was clear that this wasn’t just a moment to look back, but also to get excited about the future.
Birkdale Kitchen Co. Wins Best Kitchen Design at Global Design Awards 2024
Birkdale Kitchen Co., based in Southport, has been awarded Best Kitchen Design at the prestigious Global Design Awards 2024, a testament to their creativity, innovation, and design excellence.
The use of contrasting materials and a sleek colour palette further emphasises the kitchen’s modern aesthetic, while practical solutions ensure the space meets the homeowners’ everyday needs. The project highlights Birkdale Kitchen Co.’s ability to balance style and functionality, delivering a solution tailored to the client’s vision.
This award adds to Birkdale Kitchen Co.’s growing reputation as a leader in bespoke kitchen design. Their innovative approach and dedication to quality have already earned them nominations for other accolades, such as the BKU Awards 2024.
For more about Birkdale Kitchen Co. and their award-winning designs, visit www.birkdalekitchenco.com.
The award-winning project involved transforming a disused gymnasium into a stunning, functional kitchen space. Previously, the kitchen was in a different part of the home, but the homeowners envisioned a dynamic living area in the prime location previously occupied by the gym.
Birkdale Kitchen Co. collaborated closely with the clients to plan every detail, from layout and lighting to materials and functionality. The design focused on creating a clean, sophisticated look that maximised usability. A standout feature is the fully clad drop-down table in Dekton, which serves as an additional work surface and sink area while keeping the main island free of clutter. This thoughtful layout connects the kitchen seamlessly with the adjacent seating area, creating a harmonious flow.
PROJECT OF THE MONTH
West Carclaze Garden Village for Eco-Bos Development Ltd.
“Remediating these old clay sites has been a challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see the transformation,”
WEST CARCLAZE GARDEN VILLAGE
WEST CARCLAZE GARDEN VILLAGE
West Carclaze Garden Village is much more than just another housing development—it’s a vision brought to life. Located in the scenic region of St Austell, Cornwall, this ambitious project is part of the UK’s prestigious Garden Village initiative, which focuses on creating sustainable, health-conscious communities. The project, led by Eco-Bos Development Ltd, is a standout in this initiative, blending high-quality, energy-efficient homes with a strong sense of community and environmental responsibility.
Building a Thriving Lakeside Community
West Carclaze is not just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. From its inception, the goal was to create a 21st-century community built around the principles of sustainability and wellbeing. The development is designed to enhance the natural landscape while providing highquality housing that meets modern energy-efficiency standards. A high percentage of the homes sold so far have been purchased by local residents, reinforcing the vision of building a community for year-round living, not just a holiday destination.
Challenges and Success
One of the key challenges Eco-Bos faced during the development was remediating old clay mining sites. The process of transforming these former industrial lands into vibrant communities required significant groundwork and environmental clean-up. Homes England provided crucial funding for infrastructure like new roads, which enabled the project to move forward.
“Remediating these old clay sites has been a challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see the transformation,” says Barry Marsh, Project Director at Eco-Bos. “There’s so much work that goes into the ground before we can even begin building the homes.”
How Advantage Helped Ensure Success
For a project of this scale and complexity, having the right insurance-backed warranty solutions was critical. That’s where Advantage came in. “Advantage brought a totally new way of looking at warranties,” Marsh explains. “They’ve been incredibly flexible and professional throughout the process. Their approach has really helped us make this project a success.”
a contemporary village, with a traditional feel — cleverly designed with under-the-skin technology to make it perfect for 21st century life.
By working closely with Eco-Bos, Advantage provided the necessary peace of mind to tackle these unique challenges, ensuring that the homes being developed would be covered by comprehensive warranties that met the highest standards.
DragonBoard
Dragonboard provides a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials like timber, drywall, and insulation, utilizing world-leading materials to support environmentally responsible building practices. Central to its offering is the Dragonipanel, an intelligent panel that combines strength, insulation, fire resistance, moisture repellence, and flood resistance.
By prioritizing durability and promoting healthier living environments, Dragonboard aligns with the principles of the circular economy, reducing waste and maximizing the lifecycle of materials.
With its innovative design and focus on sustainability, Dragonboard represents a forward-thinking solution for modern construction challenges.
Dragonboard also offers practical on-site benefits that enhance construction efficiency. Panels are engineered to prioritize speed of construction, enabling faster weatherproofing and significantly reducing overall build time. Pre-cut for precision, they require less on-site customisation, minimizing the risk of errors. Additionally, Dragonboard’s versatility allows it to be used across various applications, reducing the need for multiple materials and simplifying logistics.
Dragonboard products are inherently designed to support airtight and energy-efficient construction, contributing to superior Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, with projects achieving ratings as high as 112. Their durability and high-performance characteristics
make them ideal for achieving sustainability goals in both residential and commercial developments.
The forthcoming Upton Rise project, developed by Dragonboard with funding interest from Homes England, is set to redefine sustainable living in the heart of Chester. Located on Newhall Lane, Upton, this ambitious project will deliver a mix of 7 townhouses and 2 apartment blocks, designed with a clear commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.
Upton Rise is more than a development; it represents a milestone in eco-conscious design. The project aims to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint, addressing both construction and operational emissions. By leveraging advanced materials and renewable technologies, the development embodies the ethos of sustainable living without compromise
The development is designed to generate surplus renewable energy, significantly reducing residents’ reliance on traditional energy providers. With systems in place to produce and store electricity, Upton Rise aligns with modern demands for affordability and environmental stewardship.
Upton Rise is set to commence construction shortly. The project reflects Dragonboard commitment to sustainable building practices, aligning with the broader national initiative to “Get Britain Building Again” by addressing housing demand with innovation and environmental accountability.
LEADING THE WAY TO NET ZERO CARBON HOMES
1.5 Million New Homes Target
WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR DEVELOPERS?
Discover the UK government’s ambitious 1.5 million new homes target, how it impacts developers, and why meeting housing demand is crucial for the economy.
The UK government has reconfirmed its ambitious target of building 1.5 million new homes by the end of this parliament, a challenge that presents both opportunities and responsibilities for developers.
In a recent speech, Prime Minister Keir Starmer outlined this milestone as part of a broader plan to address the housing crisis and stimulate economic growth. For developers, this target underscores the urgency of delivering quality housing while navigating challenges such as planning permissions and infrastructure demands. This article explores the implications of this goal for developers and how meeting it could transform the housing market.
What Is the 1.5 Million New Homes Target?
The 1.5 million homes target is a cornerstone of the Labour government’s housing strategy, aimed at addressing the growing demand for affordable and secure housing across the UK. Prime Minister Starmer emphasised the importance of rebuilding Britain through housing to provide opportunities for home ownership, particularly for working-class families.
This goal, described as “challenging yet necessary,” is designed not only to meet housing demands but also to serve as an economic driver, creating jobs and supporting the construction industry. It includes a broader vision for delivering 150 major infrastructure projects to support new developments.
Why Is It Important?
The importance of the 1.5 million homes target cannot be overstated. Bold planning reforms and faster decisionmaking will be essential to achieve this milestone.
Beyond addressing the housing shortage, delivering these homes will provide long-term economic benefits for the UK. A surge in construction projects could “turbocharge” the economy, creating thousands of jobs and boosting related industries. For developers, this is an opportunity to contribute to a transformative national effort while meeting increasing market demand.
How Can Developers Prepare?
To align with the government’s housing ambitions, developers will need to focus on overcoming key challenges in planning and construction. Streamlining processes, embracing innovative building techniques, and forming strong partnerships will be crucial to success.
The government’s target of 1.5 million new homes represents both a challenge and an opportunity for developers. By addressing planning barriers, adopting efficient building practices, and delivering quality housing, developers can play a vital role in achieving this ambitious goal.
As the construction industry rises to meet this challenge, the collaborative efforts of developers, local authorities, and policymakers will be instrumental in transforming the UK’s housing landscape for future generations.
The Developers Club
In the competitive and ever-evolving world of property development, The Developers Club stands as a beacon of collaboration, knowledge-sharing and industry excellence. Founded with the mission to empower property developers of all levels, this unique platform bridges the gap between ambition and success by providing invaluable insights, tools and connections.
At its core, The Developers Club is a community. A network of developers, investors and industry professionals who are united by a shared commitment to growth and innovation. Members gain access to exclusive resources, including expert-led seminars, detailed case studies and market-leading insights that help them navigate the complexities of the property sector with confidence.
One of the standout features of The Developers Club is its emphasis on personalised support. Through tailored mentoring and guidance, members can refine their strategies, overcome challenges and unlock new opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned developer expanding your portfolio or an aspiring entrepreneur taking your first steps, The Developers Club provides the tools and expertise to turn visions into reality.
Beyond resources and mentoring, the Club facilitates meaningful connections. Its networking events, both in-person and virtual, create opportunities to forge partnerships, explore joint ventures, and connect with like-minded individuals. The collective expertise within the Club is a powerful asset, driving collaboration that benefits not only its members but also the wider property market.
The Developers Club isn’t just about property - it’s about people. By fostering a supportive and dynamic community, it ensures its members stay ahead of trends, tackle challenges head-on and thrive in a competitive environment. For those serious about building a successful property development career, The Developers Club is the ultimate partner in progress.
Discover more at thedevelopersclub.co.uk and join a community that is shaping the future of property development.
Roof Tech
TRANSFORMING HOMES WITH SUPERIOR PRODUCTS AND EXPERT SOLUTIONS
At the forefront of the UK’s home improvement industry, Rooftech is a trusted manufacturer and supplier of uPVC and aluminium windows, doors, roof solutions and so much more. From stylish conservatories to durable roofing systems, Rooftech offers a comprehensive range of products that blend innovation, quality and sustainability.
The Rooftech Story
With a proven track record of excellence, Rooftech has built its reputation by delivering unique, high-quality solutions for homes and businesses alike. Whether it’s a bespoke conservatory or a cutting-edge roofing system, the company’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship is evident in every project.
Adding a new feature to your property, such as a conservatory, can be a significant investment and a transformative change. Rooftech understands the importance of getting it right, offering end-to-end support to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for every customer.
Why Choose Rooftech?
• Made & Recycled in the UK: Rooftech is committed to sustainability, with products proudly manufactured and recycled domestically to reduce environmental impact.
• Security as Standard: All windows, doors and installations prioritise security, giving customers peace of mind.
• Expert Advice: The Rooftech team is always on hand to provide guidance, ensuring customers make informed decisions.
• Quality-Checked Installation: Every project is rigorously inspected to ensure it meets Rooftech’s high standards.
• Fast Nationwide Delivery: With a reliable supply chain, Rooftech ensures your project stays on schedule.
Homes Made by Us, Designed by You
At Rooftech, personalisation is key. Each product is tailored to reflect the customer’s style and functional requirements, turning houses into homes that are both beautiful and practical. Their approach combines clear and simple pricing with a customer-first mindset, making the process as straightforward as possible.
Transforming Homes Across the UK
From elegant windows and secure doors to robust roof solutions and conservatories, Rooftech is redefining what it means to create a truly exceptional home. Their products are designed to enhance both the aesthetic and functionality of your property, with expert craftsmanship and customer satisfaction at the heart of every installation.
Rooftech doesn’t just sell products; they build trust, delivering tailored solutions that meet the needs of modern homeowners. Whether you’re renovating, expanding or starting fresh, Rooftech is your partner in bringing your vision to life.
Explore Rooftech’s range of products and services today at nwrooftech.co.uk and discover why they’re a leader in the UK’s home improvement industry.
Flitcraft: The Home of Injectawall
Flitcraft has earned its reputation as a forward-thinking construction company with a commitment to quality and sustainability. With expertise spanning new builds, renovations, extensions, garden rooms and commercial developments, Flitcraft delivers projects that combine craftsmanship with innovative solutions.
One of the standout elements of Flitcraft’s approach is their pioneering InjectaWall system. This factory insulated timber frame system is designed to transform energy efficiency in construction. By injecting high performance insulation directly into the timber frame during manufacturing, InjectaWall creates a closed-panel system that achieves future home standards building regulations
The benefits of this innovation are significant. Homes built using InjectaWall retain heat more effectively, reducing energy demands and lowering heating costs throughout their lifespan. This not only makes them more comfortable to live in but also supports the drive towards more sustainable building practices.
Flitcraft’s ability to balance cutting-edge technology with traditional construction expertise is at the core of their
success. Each project is approached with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the finished product meets both functional and aesthetic goals. Whether it’s a bespoke garden room designed to blend with its surroundings or a large-scale commercial build, Flitcraft’s work reflects their passion for delivering superior results.
Beyond construction, Flitcraft places a strong emphasis on collaboration. By working closely with clients, architects and suppliers, they ensure every project runs smoothly, on time and on budget. Their holistic approach, combined with innovative solutions like InjectaWall, makes Flitcraft a leader in modern construction practices.
With a focus on energy efficiency, sustainability and precision, Flitcraft is shaping the future of constructionone innovative project at a time.
To learn more about their services and groundbreaking InjectaWall system, visit flitcraft.co.uk or email any projects, plans to enquiries@flitcraft.co.uk for a free quotation. INNOVATING CONSTRUCTION FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
