Building and Facilities News Issue 1005

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd

Service Sealing Solutions Ltd specialises in highquality service duct sealing systems for utility services and watertight seals, offering a high level of expertise to developers and specifiers for sealing against water and gas ingress around service entries in basements and high-rise buildings.

Service Sealing Solutions is the sole UK distributor for the sealing industry’s top pioneering manufacturers: DOYMA and HKD.

With over 50 years of experience, DOYMA compile both their knowledge and skill into their seal range, to create effective, but simple solutions to meet all watertight service sealing requirements. DOYMA products provide the highest level of safety when sealing buildings where pipes and electrical cables pass through.

DOYMA stands on the front line when it comes to the development of innovative, practical solutions for sealing and fire systems. Their goal is to create safe building penetrations for pipes and cables that seal off fire, gas and water. The rubber mouldings are what ensure the gas and watertight features.

Here at Service Sealing Solutions, we supply HKD service seals throughout the whole of the UK. HKD, now owned by DOYMA, manufactures a wide range of pipe sealing systems and service conduits – which is forever growing. All seals in the range are guaranteed to withstand up to 4 bars of pressure! Also available in varying sizes and shapes for different access points.

HKD systems have a sealing solution for service conduits cast into concrete without the sleeves. HKD service conduits are supplied ready for use, requiring no site preparation work prior to installation. With options such as KE Socketless service conduits, KG Wall Ducts and Floor Ducts, together with KG Twin Sockets for installation in pump sumps and where suitability for thin-walled concrete structures is vital.

For more information, please call us on 01952 510050 or visit www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk or email sales@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk

Editor’s Comments

Welcome to our April issue, where we dive into the latest advancements, practical insights, and groundbreaking innovations shaping the building and facilities industries.

On pages 6-7, we feature Velair Group Ltd as our Hand Dryer Company of the Year. Known in the industry for providing innovative products and solutions in the washroom arena, we spoke to Matt Anderson, CEO Velair Group Ltd, who explained to us how the last 12 months have been for the company, and we delve into some of the company’s most popular products.

Refurbishment & Renovation 4

Wallbed Systems Ltd

The Homebuilding and Renovating Show 2025 was back with a bang at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre from the 18th-19th January this year. On page 8, we have a full review of the show, and we feature some of our chosen Top Exhibitors from pages 8-10.

On page 24, we feature CheckedSafe and its unique software that has been developed to provide simple and inexpensive compliance solutions that can be tailored to any industry. We focus on its primary offering – a paperless

On the Cover

Alpha bed system is available in standard and special sizes, vertical and horizontal mounting.

Hand Dryer

Company of the Year 6-7

Velair Group has supplied over 350 businesses with hand dryer packages, working via partners and distributors who sell its range.

Homebuilding & Renovating

Show Farnborough Review 8-10

The Homebuilding and Renovating Show 2024 took place at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre from the 13th-14th January last year.

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning 12-13

Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions has entered into a new partnership agreement with British Gas, the UK’s leading energy supplier.

Nicola Tromans Editor & Office Manager

compliance system that facilitates efficient defect reporting and fleet maintenance, and shine a spotlight on its innovative Lone Worker App, designed to enhance the safety of employees working alone.

Other show reviews: CIBSE Build2Perform Live 2024.

Other topics covered: Health & Safety, Site Management, Roofing, Cladding & Insulation, Building, External Works, Interiors, Doors & Windows, Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning, Facilities Management, Refurbishment & Renovation.

News to share?

gina@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk

Adveco 12

Adveco Ltd. is the trusted specialist provider of bespoke, low carbon hot water and heating systems to the building services industry. They provide a wide range of options for gas and electric water heating, incorporating the latest gas water heaters and boilers, thermal storage, heat pumps, solar thermal and heat recovery technologies.

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation 22

UNI-DAM is a rainwater management system designed to control water flow on the roof during heavy storms and to help prevent water ingress into the building.

Facilities Management 29

Fusion21 is pleased to announce the suppliers successfully appointed to its national Workplace and Facilities Management Framework.

Kingspan’s Phu My Factory in Vietnam achieves prestigious LEED Platinum Certification

Kingspan’s Phu My manufacturing facility in Vietnam has been accredited with the industry-leading LEED Platinum certification, the highest level of recognition for sustainable building practices.

cold storage, clean rooms, and food manufacturing.

No compromise on safety, comfort and ease of operation

Wallbed Systems Ltd (WBS), based in London, has supplied wall bed hardware globally for over 20 years. Known for spring systems with safe, adjustable tension, WBS was initially a major supplier to the USA market, and now serves 22+ countries.

Three of its most popular products globally include:

The award was granted by the US Green Building Council (USGBC) under its v4 Building Design and Construction: New Construction and Major Renovations rating system, achieving a total of 86 of 110 points.

Located in Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, the Phu My factory serves as Kingspan’s insulated panels hub in Asia, supplying high-performance solutions across the wider Asian region. The facility manufactures QuadCore™ and K-Roc™ insulated panels for use in architectural, industrial, and controlledenvironment applications such as

Combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices at its core, the factory is designed to deliver operational excellence at every stage. It operates under a rigorous Integrated Management System (IMS) and is certified to internationally recognised ISO standards (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001). This comprehensive approach ensures that every product meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability reflecting Kingspan’s commitment to innovation and responsible manufacturing.

https://www.kingspan.com/gb/en

Canal walls and the chocolate factory: Old Wharf renovated and regenerated

A former chocolate factory in West London next to the Grand Union Canal had been earmarked for regeneration. Though an attractive proposition for housing developers, the canal and the poor condition of the site’s wharf posed clear logistical challenges for any redevelopment works. With the wharf requiring repairs as part of the planning permissions to build apartments, national independent marine engineering and maintenance experts The Rothen Group was chosen to provide a practical solution.

Built in 1913 on the banks of the Grand Union Canal, the Hayes chocolate factory in West London had stood derelict since it4 closure

in 2014. Formerly the first factory outside Switzerland to manufacture the iconic Milky Way chocolate bar, the site’s proximity to the capital made it ripe for regeneration. Seeing the site’s potential, developers Barratt London embarked on an urban renewal project in 2022 to deliver ‘Hayes Village’ – 1,500 new flats where the factory once stood, with over nine acres of green space, a light industrial commercial space, a 200m running track and a 1.3km trim trail.

For more information about The Rothen Group, please visit: www.therothengroup.co.uk

The Alpha bed – a best seller design in 20 countries Comes in standard and special sizes, vertical and horizontal mounting, with a choice of leg options and a disappearing desk. The lightweight frames feature robust steel construction with reinforcing stiffeners, available in single-king sizes, and includes the adjustable SBLM for safe fingertip operation.

Hallmarks of WBS design WBS wall beds are easy to install and fit mattresses up to 300mm. They include a counterbalance spring mechanism, frames, mountings, pivot system, springs, and fasteners.

Powder-coated parts are ergonomic and durable, and the beds open and close with minimal effort.

NeXT bed

The latest NeXT bed offers an immediate, ready-to-use solution with or without a cabinet, providing comfort like a conventional bed. Products are stocked globally, with advice available on options and sizes.

For more information, please see below:

T +44 (0)208 704 5796

M +44 (0)7780 661958 jeremy.waller@wallbedsystems.co.uk www.wallbedsystems.co.uk

Arts University Bournemouth celebrates North Light Studios renovations

On Wednesday 27th November, Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) celebrated the official launch of its renovated North Light Studios following a c. £1.2 million investment by the University.

First built in 2000, the iconic buildings operate as print, letter pressing, and fine art studios for students. The studios were originally designed to maximise light from the north – hence its name – by configuring horizontally pivoting glazing for consistent levels of daylight provision and natural ventilation.

coverings to all studio structures, replacement of guttering works and some window replacement, repairs to the metal roof and specialist replacement to façade steel cladding.

Further improvements to the building included upgraded and new mounted external lighting to provide more security, installation of local extract ventilation to the link spaces and offices between each of the studios, replacement of comfort cooling installations, internal redecoration and repairs, redecoration and cleaning of the metal profiled roof

In May 2024, the University completed the installation of two Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) at the site, a crucial part of the plan to lower fossil fuel use on the campus and provide a clean and efficient heat energy supply. By heating water using renewable energy and air, ASHPs are up to 300% more efficient than a traditional gas heating system and can help to reduce carbon emissions by 12% each year.

Please visit: www.aub.ac.uk

From hand dryers to fragrance systems:

COMPANY OF THE YEAR HAND DRYER

Award Winner

In this issue of Building & Facilities News, we are pleased to feature Velair Group Ltd as our Hand Dryer Company of the Year

Since 2012, Velair Group has supplied over 350 businesses with hand dryer packages, working via partners and distributors who sell its range. Knowing everything there is to know about hand dryers, you’ll find their dryers in almost every sector of the market, including those with the highest standards – Food Manufacturing and Education.

Known in the industry for providing innovative products and solutions in the washroom arena, we spoke to Matt Anderson, CEO Velair Group Ltd, who explained to us how the last 12 months has been for the company.

“The past 12 months have been exceptional across the group. We’ve successfully completed every key project we set out to, while acquiring new customers and deepening relationships with our existing ones by delivering the high-quality

products and services they’ve come to expect from us. Our growth rate remains strong at around 20% annually, and we continue to consistently hit and in some cases exceed our sales targets.”

“Alongside this, we’ve expanded the team, introducing more structure and bringing in highly skilled personnel to support our growth and alleviate pressure on our existing staff, who have been working incredibly hard. Looking ahead, one of our immediate priorities is securing a larger warehouse to accommodate our continued expansion.”

We then asked Matt how sales have fared in comparison to forecast:

“Sales have significantly outperformed our forecasts, particularly following the acquisition of Enviro-Save (UK) Ltd – a globally recognised, best-

in-class fragrance system distributor known for its continuous fragrance Oxygen-Powered delivery systems. This acquisition provided a substantial boost in sales and, coupled with the ongoing success of our hand dryer division, allowed us to not only meet but exceed our projections. In a challenging economic environment, where many companies have struggled, we’re proud to have remained resilient and continued to grow. Overall, we’re extremely pleased with our performance.”

The purchase of Enviro-Save 18 months ago has been transformative for the business. Before this acquisition, Enviro-Save was generating close to £1.2 million at the time of purchase and is now exceeding £2 million and growing rapidly under Velair Group. The fragrance system mentioned by Matt was originally developed in Dubai and has proven to be a phenomenal success. The product is exclusive to Velair Group in the UK,

Velair Group® unstoppable growth

and complements its already strong hand dryer offering, further strengthening its position in the hygiene sector.

“Additionally, we’ve expanded into the electrical wholesale market with our state-of-the-art panel heaters and domestic ventilation products, allowing us to serve a broader customer base across multiple sectors,” added Matt. “Interestingly, our fragrance and electrical wholesale divisions are currently outpacing the growth of our core hygiene business, likely due to the limited number of companies in the washroom sector and the challenges of competing with continuous-revenue paper sales. Nevertheless, our comprehensive packages – offering solutions across hygiene and electrical markets – have been very well received.”

Another product that has revolutionised the hand drying sectors is the Plug & Play system, developed by Velair Group as the world’s first multi-dryer Plug & Play® platform, named The Terra4 Docking Station®

“The Terra4 Docking Station® supports 75% of our hand dryers. It allows for effortless servicing, upgrades, and replacements without the need for skilled labour – anyone can do it. This innovation has played a major role in expanding our market share and has helped us secure key partnerships, including our global collaboration with Rentokil Initial. It’s a unique selling point that continues to set us apart in the industry,” stated Matt.

The Terra4 Docking Station® is the first multi-dryer Plug & Play® platform, revolutionising hand dryer technology with its innovative design and userfriendly features. Boasting unmatched durability and performance, once installed, the Terra4 Docking Station® becomes a fit-and-forget product, providing unrivalled convenience and reliability. This platform allows any Plug & Play® hand dryer

to be easily installed, upgraded, or replaced within seconds, without the need for skilled labour.

What’s more, the Terra4 Docking Station® is made from materials known for their durability, rigidity, abrasion resistance, and thermal dimensional stability. Whether in a high-traffic washroom or a demanding commercial environment, the Terra4 Docking Station® and Plug & Play® hand dryer will deliver consistent, robust and reliable performance day after day.

“The uniqueness of our Plug & Play® Terra4 Docking Station® is a standout benefit – it offers unmatched convenience, efficiency, and cost savings. Similarly, our fragrance system is the only one on the market that guarantees consistent and continuous fragrance delivery for 30, 60, or 90 days. In a space where many products are similar, these innovations provide our customers with tangible advantages and have been pivotal to our recent success,” added Matt.

The Terra 4 Docking Station® is compatible with the Pebble Mini Entry Level Plug & Play®, Pebble+ Plug & Play that removes 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, and the brand new for 2025 F4 Eco Plug & Play. Watch out – the future of hand dryers is here!

With numerous achievements under its belt, Velair Group remains driven to accomplish even more. We asked Matt about the company’s short and long-term goals.

“In the short term, our focus remains on delivering exceptional service, technical support, and marketleading products, supported by strong marketing – core strengths we’ve maintained for over 14 years. Long term, we’re investing heavily in R&D and innovation, with several exciting product launches scheduled for this year and next. These new offerings will further strengthen our market position. Ultimately, our goal is to be the leading company in the fragrance market, the number one

hand dryer brand, and a competitive force in the electrical wholesale sector, which represents a massive growth opportunity for us.”

Ensuring sustainability remains a core part of the business, Velair Group is proud to mark its fourth consecutive year as a Planet Mark Certified business. This is a fantastic achievement that reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact.

“Velair Group has achieved Planet Mark Certified Year 4 – Business by reporting its measured carbon emissions, reducing Scope 1, 2, and core Scope 3 emissions per employee (market-based) by 12.3% compared to the previous reporting period, and by committing to expand its measurement boundary to achieve a full carbon footprint.”

“Sustainability is at the heart of our business, and being recognised for our efforts to create positive change means a great deal to us,” said Matt.

In closing, we asked matt how he felt receiving this award on behalf of Velair Group and everyone involved.

“As a company, we’ve never actively pursued awards, so being named Hand Dryer Company of the Year is truly special. Most of our recognition has come via platforms like Trustpilot, where we’ve received incredible feedback – particularly around our service, which is a point of pride for us. To be acknowledged for doing something we love is a wonderful achievement and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team.”

“Everyone at Velair Group is passionate about what we do – it takes a certain kind of person to work here, someone who loves the business as much as I do – and this award is for them. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the entire team for their continued commitment.”

For more information, please see below: T 01425 616103

hygiene@velairgroup.com

Velair Hygiene: Hand Dryer Supplier – Hand Dryer

Manufacturer | Velair

Everything Electrical: Velair Group | We make Everything electrical – Velair Group | We make Everything electrical | Home Enviro-Save UK: Oxy-Gen powered

Homebuilding & Renovating Show Farnborough Review –

The Ultimate Event for Self-Builders and Renovators: South East Homebuilding and Renovating Show 2025

The Homebuilding and Renovating Show 2025 took place at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre from the 18th-19th January this year.

From hands-on tips to inspiring insights and cutting-edge products, the 2025 show delivered it all under one roof, solidifying its reputation as the ultimate event for self-builders and renovators.

No matter the stage of their project, visitors to the Homebuilding and Renovating Show found everything they needed to bring their vision to life. The event offered tailored, one-on-one advice and the opportunity to explore 1,000s of innovative products designed to enhance any home. Attendees were immersed in a wealth of activities, from navigating planning regulations for extensions and managing renovation budgets to discovering the latest trends in kitchen design and integrating underfloor heating.

Recognised as the premier event where selfbuild specialists, renovation experts, and leading brands unite under one roof, the Homebuilding

and Renovating Show 2025 excelled in presenting the latest innovations while tackling key industry topics to help professionals make the most of their budgets. Attendees had the opportunity to consult top architects on everything from small plots to largescale builds and immerse themselves in expert insights, cutting-edge tools, and invaluable tips from the brightest minds in the field.

building a house or renovating a home. This area gave them the opportunities to speak face to face to impartial planners, builders, and architects who reviewed their potential plans for free, and delivered guidance on how to make their project a success.

From trending technology to traditionally handcrafted materials – and the people behind them, the Farnborough show delivered a platform where 100s of brands showcased 1,000s of products to a new and excited audience. Brands specialising in Energy Services, Furniture, contracting services, Architecture, Air Quality and so much more showcased their latest home renewable energy products and services including solar panels, battery storage, electrical vehicle chargers, heat pumps, and more to homeowners and developers from all over the region.

A hot topic right now is energy, and how to improve the efficiency of a home or building. The Home Energy Academy were on form at the show, offering free advice to visitors on how to make the most of the energy in their homes, whilst also saving money, reducing bills and carbon footprint. The Home Energy Hour was a new addition to the theatre line-up with talks that informed visitors of the latest trends and advancements in home energy, and advice on how to make a home leaner and greener. The Advice Centre was also a busy area of the show for those who were either

Why Electric Smart Heaters?

Selecting the right heater for a home is one of many decisions to make when building, renovating and converting. But how do you know what to choose?

Prioritise your indoor air quality

Ever noticed how heating sometimes affects the air indoors? And did you know poor air quality affects concentration, health, and overall wellbeing? Heaters that burn dust, lead to unpleasant smells and potential health irritants when being released. This could be especially problematic for those with asthma and allergies but also effects concentration and learning abilities.

Beha Electric Smart Heaters address this issue with an innovative design: an extruded aluminium surface with perforations ensuring temperatures stay below where the dust begins to burn. Simply put, these heaters do not burn dust and therefore does not affect the indoor air quality of your home.

Control your heating

Each Beha Electric Smart Heater has an independent in-built thermostat, letting you customise the temperature for different rooms. You can set up a weekly programme and adjust this through an easy-to-use free app on your smart phone or tablet, controlling your heaters from anywhere, anytime. Only heat the rooms you need, as much as you need.

These heaters can also be manually adjusted. The set temperature will project with large clear numbers onto the floor for a few seconds to make it easy to see.

The Homebuilding and Renovation Show 2026 will take place on the 17th-18th January at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Gartec, Jurassic Home Solutions & Scandinavian Trading. Further details can be found on this page and the next.

For more information, please see below: https://farnborough.homebuildingshow.co.uk

Your interior style and design choices

The range of Beha Electric Smart Heaters includes heaters with traditional steel front, modern glass front and an innovative paintable front that also can be used ‘raw’ as it is. It is your style and your choice. These heaters not only come with different looks but also in different sizes and power outputs so there is a heater for all needs and interior styles whatever room and type of project.

With our wide range of Electric Smart Heaters, you can be confident that you will find the perfect solution for your home. These heaters stand out not just for their quality, but for the sheer convenience and interior options they bring.

Would you like to find out more? Visit our website: www.behaheaters.co.uk

Reliable, stylish, and sustainable: Resin bound surfacing by Jurassic

You only have to go as far as the website to see the dramatic before and after shots of Jurassic Home Solutions’ incredible work.

From start to finish, Jurassic delivers excellence that results in stunning results, a spotless site, and a seamless experience. Get Spring ready with Jurassic Home Solutions, experts in transforming outdoor spaces, gardens and driveways.

A well-designed driveway, patio, or pathway not only enhances curb appeal but also adds value to your property. With the expertise of Jurassic Home Solutions, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of resin bound surfacing while also supporting a reliable, family-run business that prioritises quality and customer satisfaction.

Jurassic Home Solutions stands out not only for its expertise but also for its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Understanding how important a family home is, Jurassic works with each client to ensure their unique needs are met. This could be a specific style or preference for a driveway, patio, or pathway, choose from an extensive range of colours and textures to create a surface that complements your home perfectly.

Specialists in resin bound installation, Jurassic has a team of experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to every project. Their expertise ensures precise installation, guaranteeing a flawless and longlasting finish.

In today’s fast-paced world, homeowners are constantly looking for ways to enhance their properties, not only for aesthetic appeal but also for practicality and durability. Jurassic Home Solutions has been at the forefront of this transformation, carrying years of experience, and a passion for excellence, the company has carved a niche for itself in the competitive world of surfacing solutions.

When it comes to surfacing solutions, there are numerous options available such as tarmac, concrete, block paving, and gravel.

However, resin bound surfacing has emerged as a game-changer, offering a perfect blend of style, strength, and sustainability.

Resin bound surfaces provide a sleek and seamless finish, enhancing the visual appeal of any property, allowing homeowners to customise driveways, paths and patios to match the overall look of their homes. Whether you prefer a modern, contemporary style or a more traditional, rustic appearance, resin bound solutions can be tailored to suit your taste.

Unlike traditional surfacing methods that can contribute to water pooling and drainage issues, resin bound surfaces are fully permeable. This means that rainwater can naturally filter through the surface, reducing the risk of flooding and promoting better drainage. This eco-friendly feature aligns with Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Resin is a cost-effective method for surfacing as it has a life expectancy of over 20 years, requiring little to no maintenance. This is because the high-quality resin and natural aggregates used in the mix create a robust and flexible surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic, vehicle pressure, and extreme weather conditions, compared to traditional paving solutions that tend to crack or become loose over time.

What’s more, unlike gravel, that can scatter, or even block paving that can develop weeds and moss, resin bound surfaces are smooth, with no areas or gaps for weeds to grow through. To keep a resin surface looking and

performing its best, an occasional sweep and power wash is all it needs.

Resin is also a safe choice, as it is classed as non-slip, it ensures children or elderly residents can confidently walk on it. Even in the wettest of conditions, resin is the ideal choice for pathways, pool surroundings, and even door entrance areas.

UV radiation from the sun can also damage outdoor surfaces over time, causing cracks, erosion, surface deterioration, colour fading, and weakened coatings. Jurassic is committed to using the finest UV-stable resin and natural aggregates available, to ensure your new outdoor surface looks great and lasts a lifetime.

What’s good about resin is that it doesn’t cost the earth, and because of its longevity, it’s completely cost-effective. Jurassic Home Solutions understands that home improvement projects are a significant investment. That's why they offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Clients receive detailed quotes upfront, ensuring they get the best value for their money.

If you’re looking for a stylish, durable, and eco-friendly surfacing solution, resin bound surfaces are the ideal choice. And when it comes to trusted installation, Jurassic Home Solutions is the name to remember. Transform your outdoor space today and experience the lasting beauty and performance of resin bound surfacing with a company that truly cares.

For more information, please see below: T 0330 043 5166 and quote code ‘HBJHS’ www.jurassichomesolutions.co.uk

Homebuilding & Renovating Show Farnborough Review – Top Exhibitors

Elevate your home to new heights

Founded with a clear vision to lead the platform lift industry, Gartec has not only met this goal but far surpassed it!

For over 30 years, Gartec has been the UK’s leading supplier of award-winning Aritco platform lifts. Designed for both commercial and residential use, these lifts come with a five-year warranty, and feature one of the safest systems available –including a built-in battery backup in every model.

Gartec is a multi-award-winning lift provider backed by a team of industry experts with years of experience.

Energy Efficiency

This collaboration ensures that every aspect of your lift solution is expertly handled, helping to elevate your home to new heights.

Gartec offers a stylish and practical range of home lifts designed to make everyday life easier and more accessible, whether you’re a wheelchair user, elderly, or have limited mobility, its solutions help futureproof your home, making it comfortable and accessible for years to come.

The range includes the Aritco HomeLift, a luxury, high-performance platform lift that’s compact and quick to install; the Aritco HomeLift Access, its most flexible and customisable lift designed for private residences and utilises the screw and nut technology which drives the lift via an energy-efficient electric motor; and the Aritco HomeLift Compact, which provides the benefits of a lift in the space of a wardrobe. For a more premium feel, the VIMEC AR:IA offers a conventional lift experience with telescopic doors, elegant styling, an array of internal cabin finishes and bespoke sizes, ideal for multi-level homes.

With Gartec, home accessibility is simple, stylish, and built around your needs. Gartec also has a range of lifts suitable for Commercial use that are

versatile and can be fully customised to suit your business and environment.

Finding the right lift solution enhances operational efficiency while saving both time and money. Gartec offers a complete turnkey service, guiding you from the initial consultation to the final installation. With a dedicated maintenance team, they ensure your lift operates at peak performance, providing everything from routine inspections to emergency repairs.

Choose Gartec for your next platform lift solution – proud winners of the BUILD Design and Build Awards 2024 for Best Platform Lift Supplier in the UK and a Corporate Champion of the National Paralympic Heritage Trust.

T 01296 397100 sales@gartec.com https://gartec.com

Blended Products unveils VeCO2TM: The world’s first vegan certified Anaerobic Digestion (AD) Carbon Dioxide

Blended Products is proud to announce that its Anaerobic Digestion Carbon Dioxide –VeCO2TM, has been officially certified as vegan by the Vegetarian Society. This milestone marks VeCO2TM as the first-ever carbon dioxide product to receive the prestigious Vegan accreditation from the Vegetarian Society.

Partnering with a UK-based AD plant, Blended Products VeCO2TM is made from plantbased matter. This sustainable technology is not only an eco-friendly alternative to traditional carbon dioxide sources, but it is also the first-ever

carbon dioxide product to be recognised by the Vegetarian Society as fully vegan certified.

VeCO2TM enables businesses to operate more sustainably by providing an ethical, plantbased CO2 alternative that supports both environmental and operational goals.

In collaboration with a dedicated working group of leading experts from the biogas and carbon capture sectors, Blended Products has been actively driving progress in these fields. Partnering with a UKbased AD plant, the company has developed this innovative product. “VeCO2TM enables businesses to operate more sustainability by providing an ethical, plant-based CO2 alternative that supports both environmental and operational goals.” said Caroline Hunter, Head of Commercial at Blended Products Ltd. “By opting for VeCO2TM, businesses can lessen their dependence on fossil fuel-derived CO2 and support a more sustainable future.”

The Vegetarian Society’s vegan certification guarantees that VeCO2TM is produced without any animal-derived inputs, making it an ideal choice for industries and consumers prioritising ethical and sustainable solutions. This certification provides

additional reassurance to businesses seeking to reduce their environmental impact without compromising on their vegan and cruelty-free standards.

VeCO2TM offers a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable alternative to traditional CO2 sources, and its certification sets a new benchmark for ecoconscious innovation in the industry. As a versatile and highly effective product, VeCO2TM is suitable for a wide range of applications, particularly food and beverage processing. VeCO2TM supports businesses aiming to reduce their Scope 3 emissions, offering a certified sustainable CO2 alternative for various industries.

For more information about VeCO2TM and its Vegan Certification, please visit: www.blendedproducts.com or contact Blended Products at: 01652 680555.

fortop UK becomes distributor and systems integrator for Eddicy’s DC contactor range

A strategic partnership that is set to bring cutting-edge DC switching technology to the forefront of industrial and energy sectors has been announced by fortop Automation and Energy Control UK (fortop UK). Appointed as a distributor and systems integrator for the Eddicy range of DC contactors across the UK, the partnership aims to empower companies to accelerate their transition to more efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions.

Eddicy, a Schaltbau brand offering forward-thinking solutions in DC innovation, is pioneering the shift towards direct current technology, which is increasingly recognised as essential in achieving the energy transition required for a low-carbon future. DC systems offer significant advantages over traditional AC infrastructure, including greater energy efficiency, reduced power losses, and improved system reliability; benefits that are particularly crucial in industries such as renewable energy, electric mobility, and energy storage.

Eddicy’s mission to drive safety and efficiency in energy and e-mobility with direct current technology aligns with fortop’s commitment to delivering energy-efficient and sustainable solutions to its customers. By integrating Eddicy’s DC contactors into their offerings, fortop will help UK businesses take advantage of the benefits of direct current infrastructure, improving energy efficiency and supporting the shift towards greener, more resilient energy systems.

For further information about fortop’s solutions and its collaboration with Eddicy, please visit: www.fortop.co.uk

The revolution of power distribution: The enwitec CentralConnect 500/800

In a time when the demand for renewable energy is steadily increasing, operators of solar and battery storage systems face the challenge of ensuring reliable and efficient power distribution and control. Especially in large, decentralised off-grid systems, it is crucial that all components work seamlessly together to ensure a stable energy supply. This is where the enwitec CentralConnect 500/800 comes into play – an innovative solution specifically designed for these requirements.

Problem Statement: Integrating multiple power sources such as photovoltaic systems, battery

inverters, and emergency generators into a single system is a complex task. Operators must ensure that all sources and loads are protected by integrated fuses or circuit breakers and that non-critical loads can be prioritised for shutdown at low battery levels. Additionally, the systems must be robust enough to withstand high ambient temperatures and be protected against overvoltage damage.

Enwitec’s Solution: The enwitec CentralConnect 500/800 offers a comprehensive solution to these challenges. As the main AC distribution board, it forms the backbone of power distribution and control in large, decentralised off-grid systems. With high-quality components, a wellthought-out overvoltage protection concept, and a central communication control cabinet, the CentralConnect 500/800 ensures maximum availability and safety. It is available in two power classes (500kW and 800kW) and three variants to meet the specific requirements of operators.

For more information about the CentralConnect 500/800, please visit: https://enwitec.eu/en/career-6

ENERGYNEST signs commercial agreement with LEONHARD KURZ to decarbonise industrial manufacturing facility with its thermal storage

ENERGYNEST, the global leader in thermal energy storage solutions, has signed a commercial agreement with thin-film technology business LEONHARD KURZ, to implement an innovative power-to-heat system with thermal storage.

ENERGYNEST’s power-to-heat technology will decarbonise over 70% of the heat demand at KURZ’s Sulzbach-Rosenberg facility, reducing natural gas consumption by more than 3.5GWh per year, and cutting more than 700 tons of CO2 emissions annually.

Industrial manufacturing including chemicals companies like KURZ, and others in production of food and beverage, and paper and pulp, have heavy heat requirements and outputs.

ENERGYNEST’s thermal storage enables these companies to draw electricity from the grid or on-site renewables at times of low prices, create heat on-demand and reduce reliance on higher carbon gas, producing a positive outcome both for these industries and for the environment.

ENERGYNEST CEO, Alex Robertson, said, “Electrification of industrial heat is essential for decarbonising global manufacturing and supply chains. By partnering with LEONHARD KURZ,

ENERGYNEST is showcasing a scalable and effective decarbonisation strategy that can be replicated worldwide. This agreement proves that industrial energy transition is not simply a necessity. It’s happening now.”

technology and shows that it can rapidly decarbonise large swathes of hard-to-abate industries. Front footed companies with ambitious decarbonisation targets are getting ahead of the curve using thermal storage – testing its applicability and the carbon and cost savings and flexibility it affords at their plants, well before mandatory net zero targets start to bite.

ENERGYNEST’s turnkey power-to-heat solution, featuring a 3MWe electrical heater and a 12MWhth ThermalBattery™, will be integrated into KURZ’s existing thermal oil infrastructure, providing stable, on-demand heat while drastically reducing the facility’s reliance on natural gas.

The landmark agreement is ENERGYNEST’s first power-to-heat deal, and the first-of-its-kind power-to-heat with thermal storage. The deal demonstrates the scalability of ENERGYNEST’s

As ENERGYNEST’s first commercial thermal storage deal in the German market, this milestone underpins the Company’s growth in Germany’s industrial manufacturing sector, following successful deals including with Yara, ENI, and Avery Dennison.

This project is a blueprint of how to decarbonise energy intensive industrial manufacturing sectors. ENERGYNEST is in active conversation with many of the players in food and beverage, paper and pulp, chemicals, steel and cement, focused on customers with a strong commitment to decarbonising operations, stated net zero ambitions and a commitment to the energy transition.

Contact Mareike Schumm, ENERGYNEST, T +49 152 0880 5725 msc@energy-nest.com https://energy-nest.com

Upton boilers from Hamworthy heating installed at Doncaster Racecourse

When Doncaster Racecourse needed an efficient and space-saving solution to replace its existing boilers that had reached the end of their operational life, a new Upton floorstanding modular boiler system from Hamworthy Heating was specified to efficiently satisfy the high demands placed on the venue, with minimum disruption to the busy racecourse.

Following a site visit to Doncaster Racecourse to evaluate the venues requirements, Essex-based contractor ProRite Ltd turned to its local Hamworthy Heating representative, who proposed installing three vertically stacked Upton UF900-3 floor standing condensing boilers and a low loss header kit with a combined air and dirt separator.

Upton modular boilers from Hamworthy Heating feature an aluminium heat exchanger and can deliver 1MW output from less than 1m² of floor space. Readily available and delivered fully assembled to

site for easy installation, this design makes optimal use of space in the plant room at Doncaster Racecourse. Additionally, its lightweight construction means that there was no need for costly cranes or heavy lifting equipment during installation, which helped to reduce costs and minimise disruption at this popular venue.

For more information on the Upton floor-standing modular boilers, please visit: www.hamworthy-heating.com or call: 01202 662552.

Ventilating commercial and industrial kitchens

Air Vent Technology has a range of fans which is suitable for installation into those areas where high temperatures can be expected. There are three fans in the range –the ‘QBK,’ the ‘QMFHT’ and the ‘STR/ MOS.’ All these units have their motors out of the airstream for improved longevity – the motors are out of the extract airflow avoiding overheating and direct contact with dirt and grease – therefore less maintenance and cleaning. They are fitted with acoustic lining to reduce noise breakout and have operating temperatures from 80oC to 180oC. Performances are from 0.10m3/sec to 7.40m3/ sec, single and three phase. All

models are offered in a variety of sizes and installation configurations to suit multiple applications. Accessories such as attenuators, cowls, antivibration supports, high temperature flexible connectors etc. are available. AVT can design ventilation schemes to ensure that the very best performance is achieved in any circumstances. And, what’s more, AVT’s Site Engineering Services department can remove old items, complete repairs where necessary, install and maintain equipment. A truly comprehensive service.

Contact T 01264 356415

sales@airventtechnology.co.uk www.airventtechnology.co.uk

Case study: The Range chooses FUSION sustainable water heating from Adveco

One of the UK’s most recognised and fastest growing leisure and garden centre retailers, The Range has more than 200 stores, recently acquiring both the Wilko and Homebase brands. A key function of its expansion would be a new distribution centre with 356,600 square metres of warehousing space for The Range & Wilco located in Stowmarket, Suffolk. This new building was to align with the retailer’s aims of increasing sustainability and reducing lifetime carbon emissions from its properties.

Part of the building specification required the provision of domestic hot water (DHW) for canteen and kitchen facilities, within the distribution centre building, to support the expected 1,650 employed across the vast site. Recognising a need for specialist assistance, mechanical and electrical contractor WM Building Services Limited (WMBS) contacted commercial hot water experts Adveco to advise on how to meet the criteria in the specification.

With the need to maximise internal space for distribution functions, Adveco proposed a lowcarbon, electric-only response based upon its FUSION T packaged electric water heating system. This approach would help contribute towards the building securing its BREEAM certification. Adveco’s award-winning FUSION provides a compact, highly efficient, low-carbon electric water heater designed to deliver carbon reduction and operational cost savings. This FUSION T variant with Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) can cut emissions by up to 56% compared to equivalent gas-fired alternatives.

Adveco supplied 12kW FPi32 (ASHP) variants of FUSION packaged with 500L ATST twin-coil cylinders and ARDENT Premium 24kW Electric Boilers, with all necessary controls. The ASHPs feed into the lower coil of the ATST cylinder, supplying low-carbon system preheat. The electric boiler, plumbed into the upper coil supplies necessary top-up heat to achieve safe working temperatures for the commercial application, as well as meeting peak demands as and when

required. The purpose-designed controls smartly manage the balance between the two heat sources, to maximise efficiency and reduce consumption of electricity, reducing associated carbon emissions and controlling operational costs. There is also a highly significant level of redundancy introduced by having a balanced secondary heat source. This reduces strain on all system elements, cutting wear and extending the operation life of the system and reducing maintenance demands.

For new, large commercial buildings such as The Stowmarket Distribution Centre where regulatory changes prevent gas connections, FUSION electric water heating provides a clear response. Costeffective, more sustainable and able to meet the large-scale daily demands for hot water, FUSION was able to contribute to the building securing an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM certification.

www.adveco.co

www.wmbuildingservices.com

Panasonic Partners with British Gas to provide service & maintenance

Panasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions has entered into a new partnership agreement with British Gas, the UK’s leading energy supplier, to provide servicing and maintenance for Panasonic Aquarea Air Source Heat Pumps installed across the UK. This collaboration ensures homeowners benefit from British Gas’ network of qualified, experienced engineers trained to keep Aquarea heat pumps running efficiently and reliably for households nationwide. With decades of experience in heating homes in the UK, Panasonic and British Gas combine their expertise, earning the trust of millions of homeowners.

that homeowners have access to the highest quality service, and one of the UKs leading network of heating engineers, instilling confidence in the transition towards sustainable heating.

Sustainable heating: Panasonic heat pump cuts energy costs for rural 19th Century Bedfordshire home

An environmentally conscious retired couple in Bedfordshire sought to replace their expensive running and inefficient old traditional heating system in their fourbedroom, 1890’s-built rural property with a more sustainable heating system. After consulting with Clima Renewables, who had been maintaining the old system, the couple opted to install a Panasonic Aquarea J Series T-Cap Monobloc Air to Water heat pump unit. The installation was completed with the Panasonic Aquarea Smart Cloud control system which allows the couple and the installer to remotely control the heating system.

use to control the temperature, and it’s useful to track historical data.”

As the UK makes significant progress towards net-zero emissions, homeowners require a reliable support system. This partnership merges innovation, scale, and expertise to ensure that Aquarea air source heat pumps remain the gold standard in home heating year after year. Partnering with one of the UK’s most trusted home servicing and maintenance providers, guarantees

British Gas engineers have completed comprehensive, hands-on training, equipping them with the skills necessary for maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs of the Panasonic Aquarea Heat Pumps. These engineers are dedicated to ensuring systems operate efficiently, enabling homeowners to reduce energy costs while also enhancing comfort within their homes.

To find out more, please visit: www.aircon.panasonic.eu

Homeowners, Hilary and Peter Foot commented, “We have lived in the property for the last 34 years but found the old heating system to be very expensive to run. The Panasonic heat pump system was installed in August 2023, and we’ve noticed a significant reduction in our energy bills. At the same time our home maintains a consistent, comfortable warmth throughout. We also find the Aquarea Smart Cloud app easy to

The old heating system failed to provide adequate warmth, often forcing homeowners, Hilary and Peter, to resort to using their open fire on colder days. Wanting to futureproof their home with a more sustainable energy source, they explored heat pump technology. Having already installed 11 solar PV panels and an energy storage battery to help power their electric vehicles and other household utilities, the couple were open to transitioning their heating system as well.

To find out more, please visit: https://www.aircon.panasonic.eu/ GB_en

Thermablend-Lo: The next generation of highefficiency heat transfer fluids

Thermablend-Lo is the brainchild of a renewables specialist and a Technical and Quality Manager at Blended Products Ltd. This new product becomes part of the Thermablend range from Blended, which focuses on increasing the efficiency of heating systems that previously used mono propylene glycol-based heat transfer fluids.

Thermablend-Lo is a Non-Hazardous heat transfer fluid with market-leading thermal conductivity and low viscosity, ensuring enhanced heat transfer and reduced energy consumption. This fluid is designed for heating systems operating at temperatures up to 80°C, making it ideal for a variety of applications, such as air source and ground source heat pumps.

Key benefits to the heating industry:

s Improved efficiency: The superior thermal conductivity enhances heat transfer, reducing the energy required to maintain optimal heating performance.

s Lower operating costs: By optimising heat transfer and reducing viscosity, Thermablend-Lo helps minimise pump energy consumption and system maintenance costs.

s Corrosion & scale protection: Its premium multi-metal corrosion and scale inhibitors prevent system degradation, extending the lifespan of key components.

s Enhanced system hygiene: The NSF-approved biocide provides long-term microbial control, preventing biofilm formation and bacterial contamination that can impair system efficiency.

s Heat pump circuits: Enhancing efficiency in air-source and ground-source heat pumps.

s Underfloor heating systems: Providing consistent and efficient heat distribution.

s District heating networks: Optimising heat transfer in centralised heating schemes.

s Commercial & industrial boilers, with low flow temperatures: Protecting closed-loop systems against corrosion and scaling.

s HVAC systems: Maintaining efficiency in heating and cooling applications.

Sustainability & compliance: Thermablend-Lo supports energy-saving initiatives and is endorsed by the Energy Saving Trust, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

s Flexible application: Available neat or diluted to suit a range of system requirements.

Suitable heating systems: Thermablend-Lo is designed for use in various mediumtemperature heating systems that operate up to 80° including:

With its innovative formulation and industry-leading performance, Thermablend-Lo sets a new benchmark for heat transfer fluids in the heating sector.

Blended Products Ltd offers a range of fluids for the HVAC industry, including refrigeration and air conditioning water-based system maintenance fluids.

Speak to our Renewable Specialist for more information or for a Thermablend-Lo quote: Call: 01652 680555, email: enquiries@blendedproducts.com or visit: www.blendedproducts.com

Blended Products are attending Installer Show at the NEC in June. Visit Stand 5B128 and say hello, you can talk to our team face to face about our range of heat transfer fluids.

Nine Zero sets a new standard in timber windows and doors with SBD accreditation

Nine Zero Timber Windows and Doors has achieved Secured By Design (SBD) accreditation, reinforcing its position at the forefront of secure, sustainable and forwardthinking construction.

This latest achievement means Nine Zero’s timber products not only meet but exceed the rigorous security standards expected in today’s highperformance building projects, offering a competitive edge for trade professionals, architects, and specifiers – and even more assurance for today’s increasingly savvy homeowners.

exceptional quality products, expertise and advice – to set a new standard in a rapidly evolving and highly competitive market.

Sternfenster streamlines window deliveries with Podfather software

Sternfenster, one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of uPVC and aluminium windows and doors, has boosted customer service whilst reducing its environmental impact using logistics software from Podfather. Electronic Proof of Delivery (ePOD) features have eliminated hundreds of thousands of pieces of paper from the delivery process and have reduced the backoffice admin resource by around 5,000-man hours a year.

While the industry is acquainted with SBD, Nine Zero is adding the accolade and stringent criteria to its advanced CNC manufacturing processes, FSC-certified sustainable timber solutions,

“Achieving SBD accreditation is a significant milestone for Nine Zero, in an equally significant time,” says Company Director, Steve Winscott.

For more information and advice from Nine Zero Timber Windows and Doors, please visit: https://www.nine-zero.co.uk

SILKA celebrates 30 years of innovation as part of New World Developments’ landmark year

SILKA and its parent company New World Developments (NWD) are celebrating 30 years of fenestration innovation. Founded in June 1995 by Austin McGillian, the company has evolved from manufacturing PVC panels to pioneering highperformance composite doors, aluminium glazing solutions, and cutting-edge smart home technology.

At the heart of this success is SILKA, NWD’s most advanced, design-led and exclusively aluminium range to date – and a reflection of three decades of expertise at the forefront of the glazing industry. From its

full suite of super slimline Aluminium Windows, Bifold Doors, Sliding Doors, French Doors and Rooflights, to some very exciting smart-enabled additions to its Kärben collection of Aluminium Hybrid Entrance Doors launching this spring, SILKA is a direct result of the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries in design, technology, and energy efficiency.

“Thirty years is an incredible milestone, not just in terms of longevity but in our ongoing drive to set new industry standards,” says Asa McGillian, Managing Director of New World Developments, and son of founder Austin. “Every step of our journey has led us to the standard of super-insulated, futureproof SILKA products we are able to offer homeowners in 2025.”

To find out more about SILKA and the SILKAselect trade partnership, please visit: www.silkawindows.com/ silka-trade-supply

Serving hundreds of customers, ranging from one-man operators to its network of approved installers, Sternfenster makes between 400 and 500 deliveries in an average week. From its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Lincoln, its fleet of 18-tonne truck and trailer units cover most of England operating from Exeter to Margate, and Portsmouth to Leeds.

Using Podfather, which includes logistics planning, route optimisation and proof of delivery (POD) functionality, Sternfenster has virtually eliminated paper from its delivery operation. Windows and doors are scanned onto each truck, in accordance with the daily schedule, and the driver, having first completed a routine of Podfather guided vehicle checks, simply logs into the app to access details of the first delivery.

Contact www.thepodfather.com www.sternfenster.com

From net zero to Cybersecurity: The crucial conversations at Build2Perform Live 2024

The ninth CIBSE Build2Perform Live event took place on 13th-14 November 2024 at London Excel.

Build2Perform Live has been a mainstay in the exhibition calendar for many years and is organised by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).

The event is highly regarded as THE meeting place for forwardthinking industry professionals, visionary speakers, leading industry exhibitors, key decision-makers, facility managers, consultants, senior management, and young talent.

The LIVE event featured 125 expert speakers, 100+ exhibitors, and over 70 hours of approved CPD through the CIBSE CPD accredited programme that is carefully curated by CIBSE Divisions, CIBSE Special Interest Groups and the Build2Perform Live Advisory Committee.

The 2024 program was dynamic and offered fresh insights and groundbreaking perspectives from

a distinguished lineup of experts across the built environment. Attendees engaged in a variety of interactive sessions, actively participating in discussions on a broad spectrum of essential topics, from Decarbonising Heat to Sustainable Cooling.

As part of a long-term strategic partnership between CIBSE and Nineteen Group, CIBSE’s Build2Perform Live will be aligned with elementalLONDON for 2025 and beyond.

elementalLONDON’s leading event will take place 19th-20th November 2025 at London’s ExCeL.

This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Water Management Society. Further details can be found below.

Contact https://elementallondon.show

The biggest show yet!

Highways UK is the flagship event for the people and organisations involved in the planning, designing, building, operating and future-proofing of the UK’s road network. It was held at the NEC, Birmingham from 16th-17th October 2024, and included a multi-stream conference combined with a major exhibition.

Highways UK is not a trade show, but is positioned to be the thought leadership destination for UK road infrastructure development, and hosted over 375 exhibitors from across the globe.

models, active travel, best-practice collaboration, carbon management and network resilience.

The Water Management Society (WMSoc)

Join WMSoc on 12th June at Cranfield University for their summer event, Are Counter Measures Counter Productive?

This event emphasises the importance of competent design, risk assessment, validation, and verification when choosing and implementing controls. This needs to be considered from water supply through to final delivery and there is no one size fits all approach, especially when considering low carbon or other design ‘solutions’ which are intended to improve water quality.

Topics include: Recent Experiments with Expansion Vessels

Presented by Graham Thompson

Private Water Supplies

Presented by David Clapham

Besa Tr19 (Air) Waterborne Contaminants in Air Handling Systems

Presented by Paul Downing

A Review of the Risks of Legionella in Hot Water Heat Pump Systems

Presented by Dr Jodi Brookes & Dr Helena Senior, HSE Science division

Domestic Water Engineering – A Designers Perspective

Presented by Malcolm Atherton, SoPHE Northern Branch

Chemical Compliance

Presented by Stuart Caldwell

Delegate and Trade Stand spaces are available! For more information, an up to date programme, and steps on how to book visit WMSoc’s website now! https://www.wmsoc.org.uk/ events/1197

Stocksigns: Your personal signage expert

Messagemaker Displays is a supplier of LED highways signs for both permanent and temporary applications. Their purpose is to create innovative and energy efficient LED signage solutions to improve road safety work both road users and road workers.

For an easy installation and application, every sign is engineered to be as low power as possible whilst also being compatible with existing protocols, IoT integrations, power sources and existing infrastructure.

The event featured an impressive line-up of senior industry leaders from across the private and public sectors, who gave seminars and talks covering a range of topics designed to explore the future, and uncover new opportunities within the industry.

The Big Thinking Stage showcased some industry thought-leaders who tackled the difficult conversations across transportation infrastructure, and The Local Authority Theatre covered topics such as funding

Driving continuous improvement across the supply chain is one of the biggest challenges currently being faced in the industry right now. Topics covered at Connected Highways included the implementation of cyber security strategies, data collation and management, lean and agile operations and 5G, connectivity and AI.

Highways UK returns to Birmingham’s NEC this year from 15th-16th October 2025.

https://www.terrapinn.com/ exhibition/highways-uk/index.stm

The range of innovative solutions covers:

s High speed signs

– MS1, AMI, LCS, MS4 and MS4R

s Urban traffic calming

– Vehicle Activated Speed Signs, Warning Signs, Full Colour VMS

s Temporary traffic management

– Mobile VMS Trailers, Mini Unit VMS

Innovation, Collaboration and proving Exceptional Personal

Service are the key values of the Messagemaker Displays team, working alongside highways contractors and solution providers to makes our roads safer and more efficient.

T 01737 774072

info@stocksigns.co.uk

www.stocksigns.co.uk www.messagemaker.co.uk

Pioneering sustainability in the water industry: Groundbreaker Systems leads the way

In this issue of Building & Facilities News, we would like to feature Groundbreaker Systems as the winner of our Industry Excellence Award in recognition of its innovative, sustainabilityfocused products that are transforming the Water Industry

“We were thrilled to find out that we were receiving this award, it really does show to all of us at Groundbreaker Systems that our knowledge, experience and ultimately, our products, are valued and trusted by the industry to help solve problems. One of our core objectives has always been to minimise our environmental impact while delivering life’s essentials – like the water that flows from your taps. That’s why receiving an environmental award is especially meaningful to us,” stated Richard Leigh BEng CEng MICE, Groundbreaker Systems.

Founded by Steve Leigh in 1999, the company proudly celebrates 25 years of innovation and problem-solving within the Water Industry this year.

“Our team has over 200 years of combined industry experience, we are able to use this collective knowledge to quickly solve and

bring to the market solutions to our customers problems. We serve niche markets, providing a range a bespoke solutions to the Water and Construction Industries to help them with reducing leakage, reducing water usage, improving data transmission range and improving how new and old properties connect to the public water supply network. Put simply, we provide smart solutions for water management and connectivity, with a heavy focus on improving water connections and flow management to domestic properties,” stated Richard.

Headquartered in the village of Stuston near Diss, Groundbreaker Systems also has a wider team and network of manufacturing partners spread across England, from Wiltshire in the south to Caerphilly in the west and Liverpool in the north.

Groundbreaker Systems delivers innovative, industry-leading solutions that set a new standard in the water sector. Its products go beyond quick fixes as they’re designed for durability, tackling long-term challenges with lasting impact. Backed by extensive

industry experience and expertise, every Groundbreaker solution is either born from firsthand knowledge or developed in collaboration with industry experts. The result is a range of products that solve real problems and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of essential, often labourintensive water service tasks.

Groundbreaker is probably the only truly SUSTAINABLE water management system, eliminating the need for joints on PE pipe and therefore creating a leak free system. We asked Richard how does the company incorporate sustainability into its products/operations:

“Sustainability is embedded in everything we do. We’re particularly proud of our NRv2 LoFlo range of products, these have been developed to help households reduce their water consumption by up to 12% in a way that is barely noticeable to the end user. Saving water, saving energy and saving CO2 through our products use is really important to us. We have also designed the product to be as small as possible, and allowing it to be installed as part of new construction and existing meter exchange programmes significantly reduces the environmental impact of its implementation.”

Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo is a surprisingly simple method of working towards current water usage reduction targets. NRv2 LoFlo regulates the level of flow entering customer premises – regardless of network pressure, meaning a reduction in the level of water used by customers when ‘variable use’ appliances are used. As the flow of water into the premises is limited, then the amount used by the customer is also limited – but without

THE GREEN CONNECTIO N

Industry Excellence Award

providing a degradation of service, and more importantly not requiring any intervention or behavioural change on the part of the customer, leading to ‘natural’ reduction in per capital consumption.

While some water companies are offering ‘environmental incentives’ to developers to build water efficient homes, and some local planning departments are insisting on water efficient homes designed to keep per capita consumption (PCC) to under 100L per person per day, this will not impact the consumption of existing housing stock.

The NRv2 LoFlo can be easily and simply fitted to any meter installation or retrofitted on meter exchange or when upgrading or remediating underground meter chambers. Thus, allowing Water Companies to manage demand with little or no impact on consumers and at minimal cost to the water undertakers.

A simple solution at approximately £20 per household, fitted on the normal meter exchange/upgrade cycle could instantly achieve the Governments recent challenge to Water Companies of saving 8 litres of water per person per day over the next 5 years!

“As far as the business operations are concerned, we have a short and local supply chain. All the businesses we work with share our objectives of minimising our impact on the environment. One supplier has recently expanded and invested in roof top solar power, significantly reducing their reliance on network power and incorporated on-site

rainwater catchment to minimise the impact on the local community,” added Richard.

Groundbreaker Systems is excited to showcase its groundbreaking solutions at UW Live from the 20th–21st May 2025 on Stand: C22. If you haven’t already, you can register for the event here: register.visitcloud.com.

“This really is an opportunity for members of the industry to share any problems they have with water management and connectivity with us and to see how we can help them with our existing solutions or, to at least think about developing something new,” said Richard.

With a brand-new website expected to launch early June 2025, we asked Richard what strategic goals the company has for the rest of this year and beyond:

“The UK water industry is focused on the reduction of water consumption; the growing domestic water usage and population will leave the UK with a water deficit of 5,000 mega litres of water per day by 2050. One strategy for achieving this reduction is to rapidly expand the installation of smart meters. The Groundbreaker product range is ideal for supporting this role out – from Groundbreaker, housings for meters to LoFlo, flow regulators, for further reducing water use and waste.”

“In addition, one key aim for this year is to communicate to Water Companies the environmental and economic benefits of whole house flow regulation at the same time

as a Meter Exchange programme, to enhance the savings that can be achieved prior to smart meter role out – there is more information for our customers on our website on this.”

Groundbreaker Systems has proven that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. With products like the NRv2 LoFlo, which quietly reduces household water usage without affecting customer experience, the company is enabling real, measurable progress toward national water consumption targets. Its commitment to sustainable design, local supply chains, and long-term solutions – not short-term fixes –demonstrates how practical engineering can drive environmental change across the Water Industry. As the UK moves toward a more water-conscious future, Groundbreaker’s smart, efficient, and eco-friendly technologies are set to play a vital role in safeguarding resources for generations to come.

For more information, please see below: T 01379 741993 sales@groundbreaker.co.uk https://groundbreaker.co.uk

Better fit a FAKRO

At FAKRO, we are known for our knowledge, trusted for our expertise, and celebrated for our innovative solutions that redefine the standards of architectural design and construction. From our advanced roof windows to our highly rated loft ladders, every FAKRO product embodies our commitment to quality, functionality, and security. With a dedicated team of experts ready to support you at every step, FAKRO is simply a better fit for your next project.

Our roof windows are at the forefront of innovation, offering intelligent features designed to enhance both performance and convenience. For instance, we strategically position easy-reach handles lower on the window frame, enabling the placement of windows higher in a room. This thoughtful

design floods interiors with natural light while ensuring accessibility. The V40p automatic air inlet optimises the flow of fresh air, maintaining a healthy indoor environment while minimising heat loss. Furthermore, our pioneering topSafe anti-burglary system delivers an elevated level of security, giving you peace of mind without compromising style.

Beyond our product innovations, we provide unmatched contractor support to streamline your project from start to finish. Our knowledgeable specification managers offer tailored assistance with design, costing, advanced scheduling, and technical guidance. Whether you need detailed CAD resources or access to our RIBA-accredited CPD program, we are equipped to empower your vision and help you achieve exceptional results.

At FAKRO, we understand that every detail matters. That’s why we offer an inspirational range of colours and designs to ensure our solutions integrate seamlessly into your architectural plans. It’s also why our loft ladders combine ease of use with robust construction, delivering reliability every time you step on them.

We pride ourselves on being

Industrial-style victorian bathrooms with Brunel by Grange Design

Grange Design, leading UK-based designers, manufacturers and specialist distributors for the bathroom industry, outlines why its Brunel Collection is capturing the latest trend for industrial-style Victorian bathrooms in 2025.

and water can shower heads being paired with the very latest patterned wallpaper, antique furniture, mirrors and light fittings to create a look that is opulent yet practical.”

more than just a supplier – we are a partner in your success. Our focus on combining unrivalled security, exceptional performance, and forward-thinking design is what makes FAKRO the perfect choice for any project. Whether you’re seeking innovative ways to brighten a space, improve ventilation, or ensure security, FAKRO delivers solutions that exceed expectations.

Discover the FAKRO difference for yourself. With our expertise, innovative features, and steadfast support, FAKRO is the partner you can rely on to bring your vision to life. For your next project, make the better choice.

Better fit a FAKRO.

www.fakro.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/fakro-gb-ltd www.instagram.com/fakrogb www.youtube.com/@fakrogb997

Blackburn College University Centre library transformed as part of campus improvement works

Blackburn College has unveiled a new library interior following a fit out by workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors

As part of the College’s enhancement works to its campus on Feilden Street in the town, the University Centre library has been overhauled to create a more engaging and contemporary space for students to work and relax in.

Clive Griffiths, Manager at Grange Design explains, “As classic bathroom design continues to be a rich source of inspiration to UK homeowners, the latest trends are tapping into the distinct style of the Victorian era to add decorative layers and a level of superiority in the cloakroom, en suite and master bathroom. In today’s most popular Victorianstyle décors, we are seeing traditional products such as grand bath fillers, elaborate basin taps,

The Brunel Collection by Grange Design fuses the industrial design style of the Victorian era where its solid brass construction is inspired by the UK’s rich engineering past, as celebrated and pioneered by prolific figures in engineering history like Brunel and his contemporaries.

For more information or to buy online, please contact Grange Design: www.grangedesign.com

Midlands-based Blueprint Interiors were given the brief to fully reinvent and refurbish the space, and to bring to life the College’s vision to make the University Centre library a vibrant hub and a key element of the campus.

Blueprint aligned its design to that vision, delivering a transformative, high-quality and modern learning environment that has increased footfall to the library by students and staff.

Chloe Sproston, Creative Director at Blueprint Interiors, said, “Having worked with the team at Blackburn

College previously, we are proud to have been selected to deliver its library project.”

Blueprint Interiors follow the WELL Building Standard; a universally recognised benchmark which puts mental wellbeing and emotional health as key considerations when creating productive workplaces.

The Standard helps organisations to optimise their workplaces around the health and wellbeing of their people, which allows teams to be their very best selves.

https://www.blueprintinteriors.com https://blackburn.ac.uk

Sustainable timber cladding

Contemporary construction demands sustainable, functional and aesthetic building materials. Our premium timbers meet these specifications and add a timeless quality to interiors and exteriors.

Inspired by Japanese Yakisugi timber preservation, Exterior Solutions Ltd created Shou Sugi Ban®. In addition to the traditional blackened, crackled finish, our finish options bring the technique up to date. If blackened wood is too dark for your project, our collection includes a selection of mid- to light-grey tones. The smooth, subtle finish of Kebony Radiata and Yukari Numachi are popular options.

Alternatively, for a natural wood finish, Accoya® Tenki and Larch Shiberiatora showcase the beauty of timber grain. These add a warm, tactile quality to garden buildings and rustic-style retail stores.

For a splash of colour, the peacock tones of Accoya® Tobu, the deep red of Yukari Kõsui or our vibrant range of Douglas Fir finishes create unique and impactful hotel and restaurant interiors. All finishes enhance the durability of the timber by drawing out natural resins. These provide

a moisture, rot and insect-resilient barrier to minimise maintenance. It’s a practical and visually desirable way to elevate modern builds and heritage renovations.

In addition to Oak, Larch and Douglas Fir, the Shou Sugi Ban® range includes Kebony and Accoya®. These modified timbers are exposed to a chemical treatment to enhance stability and durability. We supply Shou Sugi Ban® with installation instructions, matching tipped screws and a tin of finish treatment for cut lengths. These ensure a professional finish can be achieved on every project.

Click here to download the Shou Sugi Ban® brochure. Contact Exterior Solutions Ltd on: 01494 711800 for samples and quotes.

Expert reveals essential winter care guide for natural swimming ponds

As British gardens face winter’s challenges, Ponds by Michael Wheat, creators of award-winning natural swimming ponds, today released their comprehensive Winter Pond Maintenance Guide, offering crucial advice for pond owners and those planning their 2025 installations.

The guide arrives as more UK homeowners seek sustainable alternatives to traditional pools, with natural swimming ponds gaining popularity for their chemicalfree, eco-friendly approach.

“Winter maintenance is vital for protecting your pond investment,” states Michael Wheat, whose work earned recognition at BBC Gardeners’ World Live 2022. “Our latest guide outlines three key areas of focus: water quality management, protecting pond life, and maintaining structural integrity.”

The company’s natural swimming ponds, starting from £75,000, integrate seamlessly with garden landscapes while offering year-round enjoyment. Recent installations across Kent, Bristol, and Guildford demonstrate the growing appeal of these sustainable water features.

“Winter actually presents the perfect opportunity to plan your swimming pond installation,” adds Gavin Bent, Marketing Executive, “With our 3-6 month project timeline, winter planning ensures your pond is ready for summer enjoyment.”

The company offers free pond inspiration guides and discovery calls with their design team for those considering a 2025 installation, seeking winter maintenance advice, or information on their pond maintenance packages

Book a telephone consultation with their team of pond experts and start your journey today!

Contact

T 0116 218 5107

www.pondandgardendesign.co.uk

Protek ESP Panels: A game-changer for the Timber Build Sector

In the ever-evolving timber build sector, the introduction of Protek ESP Panels marks a significant advancement in material preservation and sustainability. Protek ESP (Edge Sealant Protection) Panels is designed to combat one of the most persistent issues in timber construction: water damage and delamination.

Water ingress is a major concern for plywood and other sheet materials used in construction. When water penetrates the edges of these materials, it can lead to swelling, warping, and ultimately, structural failure. Protek ESP Panels address this problem head-on by providing a robust sealant that protects the edges of plywood, OSB, MDF, and other sheet materials from moisture. This not only extends the lifespan of the materials but also enhances their structural integrity.

Additionally, the product has been rigorously tested and approved by BM TRADA, ensuring it meets high standards of performance and reliability.

The application process is straightforward, requiring only a brush or roller to apply the sealant to the edges of the panels. This ease of use makes it an attractive option for builders and contractors looking to improve efficiency on-site. Furthermore, the sealant dries quickly, allowing for faster project completion times.

Protek ESP Panels is available in various colours, including a distinctive red that provides a clear visual indication of treated areas. This feature is particularly useful for building professionals and inspectors, ensuring compliance with waterresistance standards and regulations.

In conclusion, Protek ESP Panels represent a significant innovation in the timber build sector. By preventing water damage and delamination, they enhance the durability and longevity of timber materials, contributing to more sustainable and resilient construction practices. As the industry continues to prioritise sustainability, products like Protek ESP Panels will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of timber construction.

T 01749 344697 sales@protekproducts.co.uk www.esp-timbertreatments.com www.protekwoodstain.co.uk

engcon and RodRadar partner to transform on-site construction automation and

safety

Brenntag Specialties announces exclusive distribution agreement with 3M for Glass Bubbles

Brenntag, the globalmarket leader in chemicals and ingredients distribution, today announced the expansion of its current exclusive distribution agreement with 3M on Glass Bubbles from the UK into France and Iberia. This evolving relationship between Brenntag Specialties and 3M, the science-based technology company, will come in force on January 1st 2025.

and chemical resistance than other hollow glass microspheres made of sodium silicate glass, also known as water glass.

engcon, the leading global manufacturer of tiltrotators, today announced a strategic global collaboration with RodRadar, the developers of Live Dig Radar® (LDR), a patented technology for real-time underground utility strike avoidance.

This partnership will integrate RodRadar’s innovative LDR system with engcon’s quick couplers and tiltrotators, delivering a seamless solution for contractors, utilities, and municipalities. The result is a transformative approach to safer, automated, and more efficient excavation.

RodRadar’s LDR technology enhances excavator operations by enabling real-time detection and avoidance of underground utility infrastructure during excavation, without the need for off-site or offline expert analysis. The technology is embedded in the LDR Excavate digging bucket and complemented by an intuitive in-cabin operator display unit.

“This collaboration is fantastic news for our end customers,” said Sam Ryan, Regional Director & Global OEM Manager at engcon. “By integrating our advanced tiltrotator technology with RodRadar’s Live Dig Radar, we’re enabling safer, automated, and more efficient digging operations while significantly reducing time and costs on-site.”

The integration of engcon’s tiltrotators and RodRadar’s LDR system is poised to modernise excavation processes, boost operator safety, and drive project efficiencies.

“We are thrilled to partner with engcon,” said Yuval Barnea, VP of Sales and Marketing at RodRadar. “Their innovative solutions perfectly align with our Live Dig Radar system, creating a seamless integration that enhances contractors' safety, precision, and productivity. This partnership represents a significant step forward for both companies, enabling us to deliver unparalleled value to the construction industry and set new standards for operational excellence.”

The solution will allow contractors to upgrade their engcon DC2 and DC3 systems with EC-Oil technology, enabling seamless compatibility with the RodRadar LDR system. The machine coupler solution is available Q1 2025. The solution under the tiltrotator will be available later in the year.

To learn more, please visit: www.rodradar.com

3M Glass Bubbles provide a high-performance alternative to conventional fillers in a variety of materials. These hollow glass microspheres are not only offering weight saving opportunities but are also contributing to functional benefits ranging from dimensional stability to solar reflectivity. 3M Glass Bubbles are made of soda-lime borosilicate glass, which is a true glass with inherently greater water

Christine Bryant, President GlobalMaterialScience and President NA Brenntag Specialties, says, “The 3M Glass Bubbles will strengthen our specialty product portfolio in France and Iberia. We are proud to receive the confidence from 3M to represent them in these additional countries. Through our Innovation & Application Centers, we will support our customers with formulation work and technical advice, so that they can benefit the most from the technical and sustainability advantages that the 3M Glass Bubbles are offering.”

For more information, please visit: www.brenntag.com

EIT RawMaterials-supported ‘El Moto’ tungsten project completes DFS, targets 2025 construction

The El Moto project, located in Abenójar, central Spain, crossed a major milestone with the finalisation of its Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) showing a reserve of 91MN tons of tungsten ore @0.44% WO3eq and 1.2MN ounces of gold at the cut-off grade of 0.25% WO3 The project targets bring it closer to the start of construction in 2025. El Moto is supported by EIT RawMaterials-led European Raw Materials Alliance in securing funding, offtake agreements, and technical expertise.

Europe is heavily dependent on imports to meet its tungsten demand, which has been designated a critical and strategic raw material by the EU. With its significant resources, El Moto is positioned to make Europe a major producer of tungsten, helping secure its own requirements and become a leading global supplier of tungsten, securing European supplies for key industries, including steel manufacturing, construction, as well as the aerospace sector.

Learn more at: www.eitrawmaterials.eu Find out more at: www.mininghills.com

New study reveals HydroGraph’s Fractal GrapheneTM enhances cement performance

HydroGraph Clean Power Inc. (CSE: HG) (OTCQB: HGRAF) (FRA: M98) (the ‘Company’ or ‘HydroGraph’), a sustainable commercial manufacturer of pristine graphene, has announced its second research study in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU) highlighting the advancements in extending the use of HydroGraph’s Fractal GrapheneTM into cement and concrete applications.

ultra-strong construction materials to cutting-edge 3D printing techniques.

Lights, camera, action for BFI Southbank roof refurbishment

The BFI Southbank is located directly underneath Waterloo Bridge, a Grade II* listed heritage structure.

The report, co-authored by Ranjith Divigalpitiya, CSO of Hydrograph, validates the potential of HydroGraph’s graphene in revolutionising the construction industry, with graphene-enhanced concretes offering practical and sustainable options for highperformance applications, from

According to Mordor Intelligence, the global cement market is expected to grow from 4.39 billion tons in 2024 to 5.96 billion tons by 2030. With cement production responsible for 8% of global carbon emissions, concrete producers face unprecedented pressure to reduce both carbon emissions and cement consumption. HydroGraph and ASU have discovered that ultra-low doses of Fractal Graphene™ (0.02%) can enable higher use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) while delivering up to 70% better early-age performance.

For more information about HydroGraph, please visit: www.hydrograph.com

Bruton Knowles secures multiple public sector contracts to drive future growth

Bruton Knowles’ National Public Sector Valuation Team is marking a year of growth, driven by an array of new contract wins and renewals with public sector organisations across the UK.

In the last few months alone, the team has celebrated a series of instructions, including securing tenders for Ceredigion County Council, Cambridgeshire County Council, Pembrokeshire County Council, Southampton City Council, South Oxfordshire & Vale of White Horse District Councils, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue and Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

Adding to this momentum, the team has successfully extended contracts with West Sussex County Council, East Sussex County Council, Cambridge City Council, Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council and Northumberland County Council.

Highlighting these achievements, the team has also been appointed to deliver valuation advice to Natural

Resources Wales, the principal environmental agency responsible for managing and safeguarding Wales’ natural resources, for 18 of its freehold assets in the current financial year. This high-profile client reinforces Bruton Knowles’ reputation as a reliable partner for public sector organisations.

For more information, please visit: www.brutonknowles.co.uk

A 350m2 roof area running on each side of the bridge was in need of refurbishment. The BFI’s in-house facilities team stipulated that a coldapplied liquid roofing system for the project and consulted with Martins Roofing, who recommended the ARBOFLEX® PU waterproofing system from CARLISLE; a versatile cold-applied liquid roofing system.

apertures so that each new unit could be fitted within an hour of the waterproofing being completed.

Each of the GRP roof sections have raised channels a few millimetres high. Because of the undulations, it was not possible to use the usual matting as part of the ARBOFLEX PU system. Instead, two additional coats of ARBOFLEX PU were proposed for the GRP roof sections, with each coat allowed to cure prior to application of the next.

A cure accelerator was added to the ARBOFLEX PU liquid system for the sections around the rooflight

For the vented vertical sections, the ARBOFLEX PU system was applied with the correct ratio of thickener, providing thixotropic properties and suitable viscosity and adhesion.

Duncan McKeich, head of facilities at the BFI commented, “The solution allowed us to carry on with our normal operations with very limited disruption and gives us confidence in the roof again.”

info.uk@ccm-europe.com www.ccm-europe.com/gb

Selco named one of UK’s best places to work

Selco Builders Warehouse has cemented its position as one of the UK’s most engaging and enjoyable employers.

The leading builders merchant, part of the Grafton Group, has been named the 11th Best Big Company To Work For in the Best Companies survey.

Best Companies is an independent award decided by the workplace surveys of thousands of companies measuring workplace culture and engagement, with employee feedback dictating the finishing positions of a business.

In 2024, Selco has introduced a paid volunteer day for each of its near-3,000 colleagues, allowing each member of its workforce to take a normal working day away from the individual’s traditional environment to support a local good cause or project under full pay.

The ‘EarlyPay’ scheme, a financial wellbeing tool which allows colleagues access to wages they have already earned in advance of pay day, has also been launched.

Selco’s commitment to offering its colleagues career development opportunities has been enhanced further with the introduction of a Women in Leadership apprenticeship. More than 200 colleagues have now been involved in apprenticeship programmes since they were introduced by Selco.

With hundreds of trade brands always in stock, Selco’s branches are firmly focused on helping tradespeople complete their jobs as quickly and effectively as possible.

For more information on Selco, please visit: www.selcobw.com

Roofing, Cladding & Insulation

UNI-DAM

During recent years there have been increasing problems with gutters unable to cope with heavy rainfall during storms and if these are in-board gutters such as Valley and Parapet types this can lead to overflows into the building.

It appears that the types of roofs most commonly affected are metal profiled roofs on industrial, commercial and retail buildings, very many of which do have in-board gutters.

These metal roof sheets are non retentive in terms of water absorption and have little frictional resistance that could help slow down water flow.

It is quite common, following a change from Fibre Cement roofing, including Asbestos Cement, to metal profiled sheets during roof refurbishment programmes, for problems to occur that did not exist prior to the change.

This is because Fibre Cement has water absorption properties and its surface has a rough finish which provides frictional resistance to the flow of water. The porous nature of the surface encourages mould growth which also interrupts water flow and further helps frictional resistance. This slows water flow, allowing the gutters and outlets time to discharge.

Water retention, frictional resistance and interruptions to the flow of water have been the keys that have helped Fibre Cement sheets to protect the building from water ingress and it is these observations that has ultimately led to the development of the UNI-DAM system.

1) UNI-DAM is a rainwater management system designed to control water flow on the roof during heavy storms and to help prevent water ingress into the building.

2) During a heavy storm rainwater travels down slope at increasing speed and depth whilst also collecting the precipitation discharging to it. This water, left unchecked, enters the gutter in such volumes that it can overwhelm the drainage capacity of the gutter system and is the effect that can lead to overflows, particularly when the gutters and outlets may have insufficient coping capacity.

3) UNI-DAM does several things to prevent overflows using a series of Blade-like Dams:

1) The Blades disrupt water flow decreasing its speed

2) The Blades isolate areas of roof between them, localising the rainfall and helping to prevent water collection down-slope

3) The blades act as mini dams that store water preventing the large volumes from reaching the gutters for a period of time. The water storage imposed load is kept within the design snow loading.

4) The blades allow water to pass beneath at a controlled rate, nominally 75mm/hour, by virtue of small gaps whose size is determined at the calculation stage and produced during manufacture.

5) UNI-DAM also has water storage duration well in excess of the normal expected storm intensity period of 2 minutes. Storage periods well in excess of 30 minutes are not uncommon.

4) The blades are manufactured from materials that are sympathetic to the original roof and are profiled to suit the roof sheet.

5) They are fixed to the rib or upper corrugation of the roof sheet and are fitted continuously along its length and at right angles to the roof down slope. The blades comprise two components, the Brace angle and the UNI-DAM Blade. The Brace angle is fitted to the roof sheet rib, continuously along the length of the roof in 2.8 metre sections using Stainless Steel drill screws, Gun Mastic seals are applied beneath each fixing position. The UNI-DAM blade is fitted in 2.0m lengths over the Brace angle, small drill screws are applied through pre-punched holes at the rear of the blade and the front leading edge of the Blade is secured with stainless steel drill screws, again sealing beneath each fixing position with Gun Mastic.

6) UNI-DAM blades are always positioned above end laps and avoiding roof lights and unsealed barge and verge flashings.

Each blade run should be positioned as near as possible to existing purlin runs.

It may be prudent to check and if necessary re-seal the side laps of the roof sheet as a precaution.

7) The number and size of the blades are determined by calculation using software developed at the testing stage of the product.

The UNI-DAM software uses rainfall data from BSEN12056-3:2000. By extending the data series from the 2 minute event, to longer durations, as per BSEN12056-3:2000 Annex NB, the software is able to perform a dynamic storage assessment in small time steps to evaluate the maximum water level for any given storm return period.

Flow out of the dam is based on physical test data, undertaken on a full scale roof sheet mock up.

A design category can be chosen at the calculation stage and this is normally category 2 and the storm return period in this Roof store category is 60 years.

8) Each individual roof requires a separate calculation.

In-put information required is:

1) Geographical Location

2) Length of roof

3) Slope length

4) Pitch of Roof

5) Valley or Eaves Roof Condition

6) Gutter and Outlet Capacities

The gutter and outlet capacities are required to ensure that they can cope with the reduced discharge from the blades which is based on 75mm/hour or 0.0208 litres/second/square metre.

Gutter and outlet capacities are calculated from information provided at survey.

9) A survey proforma is available to help at this stage; however, it is possible to provide a calculation and budget quotation from Google Earth information provided the building can be accurately identified.

10) Provided that the gutters and outlets are able to cope with the 75mm/hour rainfall discharging from the blades (as most systems will) or have been corrected to cope, then the UNI-DAM will provide complete protection within the confines of the design.

For more information or quote, please contact our office on: 01384 252777.

Unrivalled excellence in gutter lining technology: www.gutterliners.com

Reliable and experienced piling installation contractors

Leading the field as a proud Scottish provider of piling services, Burnside Plant Hire Ltd.’s sterling reputation for delivering high-quality work throughout the UK comes from its strong focus on excellence and precision and its commitment to quality craftmanship.

Its team of skilled professionals bring extensive knowledge and experience to every job, providing a leading service that has earned them the trust and appreciation of hundreds of clients across the UK.

example, used to bore deep into the ground, creating a secure foundation that will last for years to come. Or, their driven piles, that are installed using a hydraulic hammer or vibratory hammer, depending on the site conditions and project requirements, that deliver only the best results.

Vericon Systems launches new MouldSense solution to help landlords and tenants breathe easy

As the go-to choice for exceptional piling installation and additional engineering, design and groundwork projects, Burnside Plant Hire Ltd supports all sizes of construction and development projects specialising in a variety of services including tubular and sheet piles, driven piles, and mini pile installations.

Equipped with the latest technology and equipment, each project is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality. Take their top-ofthe line drilling rigs and equipment for

If you have a unique project that requires a more bespoke or technical design/approach, Burnside Plant Hire Ltd can work closely with you using a thorough site assessments and clear communication, they can deliver a tailored plan that meets your needs.

If you require piling solutions for a project in Scotland or the UK, please contact below: T 0141 647 9331 enquires@burnsideplant.co.uk https://burnsideplant.co.uk

Game, set, match: Jacksons Fencing serves security at West Beach Tennis Courts

Jacksons Fencing successfully supplied and installed its state-ofthe-art EuroGuard® Rebound sports mesh fencing at West Beach Tennis Courts in Whitstable, Kent. In partnership with LTA Tennis Foundation, this installation marks a key milestone in Canterbury City Council’s initiative to upgrade local sports infrastructure while reinforcing Jacksons Fencing’s reputation as a leader in high-quality, long-lasting fencing solutions for all applications including sports and recreation.

degrade materials that weren’t up to standard. The fencing had to withstand harsh weather conditions while maintaining its integrity and appearance over time.

A tailored fencing solution

Addressing security and durability challenges

The key challenges for the fencing were multi-faceted. First, security was a priority. The courts needed to be securely enclosed to prevent unauthorised access and vandalism, yet the boundary needed to remain welcoming and accessible to the public.

Durability was another major consideration, especially given the coastal environment, where salty sea air and strong winds could quickly

Understanding the unique demands of the project, Jacksons Fencing supplied and installed EuroGuard® Rebound sports mesh fencing, an advanced system engineered specifically for sports facilities. Constructed from galvanised steel mesh and finished with a marinegrade polyester powder coating in green RAL 6005, the fencing provides superior resistance to corrosion, ensuring longevity in the harsh seaside climate. Its innovative mesh configuration allows for excellent ball rebound, minimising disruptions during play while maintaining clear visibility of the surrounding landscape.

For further information about this project, please visit: www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Vericon Systems, a leading manufacturer of remote technologies to manage and control essential building services, has launched MouldSense, a new plug and play solution to help landlords monitor, measure and manage damp and mould within their properties and ensure compliance with Awaab’s Law.

MouldSense, part of Vericon’s proven HomeHub series, includes battery-operated temperature and humidity sensors that can be placed around a property to identify and alert landlords of potential issues. The sensors assess the risk in each room, every five minutes, providing accurate information about what is really going on inside the property. It enables landlords to decide if fixing a fault is necessary or whether

educating tenants about the health risks associated with damp and mould will prevent an issue occurring before it has time to escalate. With in-depth reporting and analysis, MouldSense also provides landlords with a complete and detailed audit trail to further ensure compliance.

It also comprises Vericon’s Boiler Control and Monitoring unit which provides real-time information about a boiler’s ‘health.’ The unit can detect potential faults, from leaks to ignition failures, in advance, and send the data to the landlord in real-time to inform preventative maintenance.

To download Vericon’s free guide on how its MouldSense solution can help ensure compliance with Awaab’s Law compliance, go to: https://vericonsystems.com/ mouldsense

Oakheart Property expands as 5th Branch opens in Chelmsford

Oakheart Property expands with New Chelmsford Branch, bringing its unique blend of traditional values and modern innovation to Essex’s County City.

Oakheart Property, one of the region’s fastest-growing and most dynamic estate agencies, is delighted to announce the opening of its newest branch in Chelmsford, Essex. This exciting expansion brings Oakheart’s award-winning property services to the heart of Essex, further cementing its reputation as a trusted name in the property market.

Located at 20 Victoria Road, the Chelmsford branch will offer a full range of services, including residential sales, lettings, and support for Oakheart’s recently launched Land & New Homes division. With a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, Oakheart combines the best of traditional estate agency values with a forward-thinking, modern approach.

A growing presence across Essex & Suffolk

The Chelmsford branch joins Oakheart’s established network of offices across Essex and Suffolk, including Colchester, Mersea Island, Sudbury, and Bury St Edmunds. This expansion reflects the company’s ambitious growth strategy while maintaining its commitment to delivering outstanding service at every stage of the property journey.

For more information about Oakheart Property or to get in touch with the Chelmsford team, please visit: www.oakheartproperty.co.uk or call us on: 01245 800181.

CheckedSafe: Revolutionising compliance & safety in the building and facilities industry

Multi-award-winning CheckedSafe offers a range of health and safety solutions tailored for the building and facilities industries.

CheckedSafe is unique in the fact that its software was developed to provide simple and inexpensive compliance solutions that can be tailored to any industry. Combining a dedicated team of developers and client account managers, CheckedSafe provide comprehensive compliance services across several platforms, including commercial and plant hire vehicles, complete fleets, and vehicles in the utilities sector.

CheckedSafe is a trusted partner of several wellknown brands, including Enterprise, HITACHI, QBE, and Northgate. The company was founded by Gary Hawthorne and Darran Harris, both of whom bring extensive expertise to the industry. Darran specialises in litigation, compliance, and road traffic incidents, while Gary holds multiple prestigious credentials, including Fellow status with the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the Society of Engineers, and the Institute of Road Traffic Engineers. He is also a Commercial Mediator and a DVSA Accredited Earned Recognition Auditor.

Its primary offering is a paperless compliance system that facilitates efficient defect reporting and fleet maintenance. This innovative software is also compliant with the DVSA Earned Recognition scheme, enabling you to prove with ease that your vehicles, drivers, and operations meet all necessary standards, thus reducing the likelihood of your vehicles being stopped for roadside inspections.

From the office, managers can monitor user activity, view comprehensive maintenance reports in real time, identify outstanding tasks and vehicle defects, and schedule services to remain fully compliant. Comprehensive reports include all details relating to checks and their outcomes, including historical checks, and the system is completely secure as all data is sealed from editing, providing an end-to-end detailed audit trail. What’s more, with the innovative scheduling system, you have full visibility over the status of your vehicles, enabling servicing and maintenance to be scheduled accordingly, allowing you to digitalise your wall planners.

This software is suitable for checks on HGV walkarounds, daily van checks, vehicle pre use, FORS, plant & equipment, and forklifts, and can be tailored to create a template for ANY piece of equipment you might have.

For the drivers, a brand-new app – GB Domestic Hours, is a completely digitised upgrade to the paper log books, allowing drivers to record and manage their drivers’ hours directly from their smartphone.

CheckedSafe is the only UK company to develop and launch the GB Domestic Hours app, bringing marketfirst technology to UK vehicle fleets. CheckedSafe’s portfolio of compliance tools – that includes the much-celebrated Driver Licencing Checks, priced at an unbelievable £1.60 per check and Fleet Management Software – enables fleet managers to

efficiently oversee fleets of any size fully digitally –eliminating the need for cumbersome paperwork.

In addition to vehicle compliance, CheckedSafe provides a Lone Worker App designed to enhance the safety of employees working alone. This app allows lone workers to log their location and complete risk assessments, ensuring employers can monitor their safety effectively.

Ideal for those who work outside of normal working hours, are remote from a central office, or even for those who are not in frequent contact with their employer, the CheckedSafe Lone Worker App and monitoring suite is the number one App for employers to ensure the safety of their employees.

Offering a completely customisable experience, the system boasts an extensive library of DVSA, HSE, Puwer, Loler, and UK Border Force check templates, all of which can be tailored to suit the specific requirements of your business. What’s more, if a driver has no signal, defects can be conducted from anywhere at any time. This is because all failed vehicle compliance checks will automatically generate a report which is stored in CheckedSafe’s secure CMS, ready for further analysis.

Gary Hawthorne, Director & Co-Founder mentioned, “Fleet managers can now oversee any size fleet with mobile phones, rather than copious amounts of paperwork (a laptop is useful to interrogate the data). There is no need to store huge boxes of reports, plus it’s all in real-time so any defects/issues can be resolved quickly, reducing overall long-term costs and reducing downtime as better repair planning can be achieved.”

All of this can be achieved for just £1 per vehicle per week. Just think, how much more efficient your business could be if your employees could carry out customised vehicle checklists via a downloadable app – even when drivers are off-grid!

To find out more about CheckedSafe or to access the 30-day free trial, please contact below: T 01282 908429 info@checkedsafe.com https://www.checkedsafe.com

Construction hoists that take you up in the world

Direct Hoist, is an ever-expanding construction hoist hire and sales specialist, with an unrivalled attitude towards impeccable safety standards and a green revolution within the industry sector.

With a specialist team of hoist experts, Direct Hoist offers cost-effective construction solutions and no-nonsense advice, keeping your costs down and productivity high.

Specialising in Electroelsa and GEDA hoists, which have lifting capacities from 60kg to 5,000kg, Direct Hoist’s fastidiously-maintained fleet is available for sale or hire throughout the UK.

Installation and dismantling is handled by a highlyqualified team – all SSSTS-certified, holding NVQ

Level 2 Blue or Level 3 Gold CSCS cards, who arrive on-site in eco-friendly HVO-powered vans.

Direct Hoist’s company founder and managing director Rob Wilson, is keen to ensure customers can benefit from his firm’s growth by gaining access to not just a wider range of products but a one-stop shop for planning, supply and tuition for the use of construction hoists.

One of Direct Hoists’ most popular small hoists is the GEDA 200kg inclined ladder/rope hoist.

Perfect for roofing jobs and installation of solar panels – the simplicity of this hoist makes it one of the best and most popular hoists for roof repairs and installations, it can also be used for entry through a window. This GEDA hoist is highly versatile with so many different platforms to choose from Vario platform (where the platform is horizontal running up an incline), solar panel platform, tipping skip platform, sheet carrier, tile cage platform, furniture and standard platform.

Practical, portable and very flexible, the hoist can be used in dozens of different ways. Want to replace the labourintensive work of carrying objects up or down hills? No problem. Need to move furniture through an upstairs window in a house or flat? Get the GEDA. Having trouble transporting objects out of cellars? This lift is your friend. In fact, the possibilities are endless…

Direct Hoist can supply a GEDA inclined hoist for your next project, to buy or for hire at competitive prices and preferable terms. Give Direct Hoist a call for the easy solution.

Direct Hoist takes you up in the world with top-class construction hoists for any commercial project, large or small. For your free advice and site survey call: 01724 781647 or for more information about these or other hoists available for sale or hire, hoist servicing and repairs, please visit: www.directhoist.co.uk, or email: info@directhoist.co.uk.

Health & Safety

TB Davies achieves ISO 14001 certification, reinforcing sustainability leadership

TB Davies, a leading UK supplier of work-at-height safety solutions, has achieved ISO 14001 certification, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental leadership.

The internationally recognised ISO 14001 standard validates the company’s dedication to robust environmental management and highlights its proactive approach to reducing ecological impact.

Carbon Emission Reduction Pilot.

The pilot programme supported TB Davies in creating a measurable plan to significantly reduce its carbon footprint.

Elta’s explosion proof fans earn elite IECEx Certification

Elta has gone above and beyond to provide peace of mind for specifiers of explosion proof equipment, following its attainment of the IECEx Certification.

for industries operating in potentially explosive atmospheres such as on offshore oil and gas platforms, power generation, and chemical processing.

Established in 1945, the familyowned business has long prioritised environmentally responsible practices, including harnessing solar energy, reducing plastic packaging, and introducing hybrid vehicles. These initiatives form part of the company’s ambitious goal of reaching Net Zero by 2050.

This certification follows TB Davies’ development of an award-winning carbon reduction plan in 2022, when it participated in the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme’s

Securing ISO 14001 certification involved a rigorous assessment and close collaboration throughout the business. TB Davies accessed essential external expertise through the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme, which connected them with ISO specialist Brian Taylor. His guidance helped ensure the certification process succeeded on the first attempt.

For more information, please visit: www.tbdavies.co.uk

Bull Products’ safety solution displayed at Fire Safety Live North

Bull Products, a trusted and renowned leading provider of temporary fire, safety and access control solutions for the construction industry and other applications exhibited at Fire Safety Live North. The event took place from 22nd–23rd January at Manchester Central at stand FC30, where Bull Products showcased its temporary fire solutions and innovative wireless workforce management and access control solution, SITEGATE.

The Bull Products team were on hand to discuss the company’s innovative new product launch SITEGATE, a cloud-based workforce management and access control system that includes turnstiles for controlled site access. The SITEGATE Turnstiles provide seamless, secure entry for visitors, workers, and vehicles, integrating effortlessly with the SITEGATE online platform. This cloud-based system is built on three core modules: Workforce Management, Online Induction, and Delivery Management, offering real-

time data to enhance site security, improve operations, and optimise both time and cost efficiencies. Fully wireless and compatible with Bull Products’ SITENET and SITEPROTECT ranges of wireless fire detection and alarm systems, SITEGATE is the perfect solution for construction and development sites of any size. Introducing SITEGATE to its product portfolio provides Bull Products’ customers with one partner for fire and access control, simplifying the process for customers.

For more information, please visit: www.bullproducts.co.uk

IECEx is the International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC) certification program for equipment and services used in explosive atmospheres. A globally recognised standard, it ensures that products and services comply with the highest safety requirements for use in hazardous environments. In November 2024, Elta, a leading specialist in air movement equipment, achieved the certification following a two-year auditing period.

Eurofins Scientific, a UKASaccredited notified body and provider of certification services, awarded the certification to Elta’s Fareham factory for its range of direct driven axial fans. Already ATEX-rated, the latest achievement underscores Elta’s dedication to providing reliable and safe solutions

Although IECEx certification is voluntary for manufacturers, governments in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and many countries in South America already adopt the IECEx certification as a mandatory requirement to tender for projects related to explosive atmospheres.

Elta’s journey to IECEx certification involved rigorous testing and evaluation of its products and processes. The certification process included factory production control audits, comprehensive assessments of design, manufacturing, and quality control procedures to ensure compliance with IEC standards.

For more information about Elta and its IECEx certified products, please visit: eltauk.com

Health and safety expert urges homeowners to check gas appliances before Christmas

With Christmas just around the corner, Derek Bruce, a leading health and safety expert at SMSTS Course, is issuing a timely warning to homeowners: ensure your gas appliances are in top condition to avoid potential hazards during the festive season. Faulty gas equipment and overlooked maintenance can lead to serious risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning, gas leaks, and fires.

“As the temperature drops and homes gear up for the holidays, it’s critical to make sure gas appliances are safe and functional,” says Derek Bruce. “A few simple checks can make all the difference in keeping your family warm, safe, and stressfree this Christmas.”

Key gas items to check in your home: 1) Gas Boilers Boilers work overtime during winter,

and a breakdown could ruin your festive plans. Schedule a service with a Gas Safe-registered engineer to prevent leaks or malfunctions.

2) Gas Fires

Popular for creating a cosy atmosphere, gas fires should be inspected for signs of trouble, such as yellow flames or unusual smells.

3) Cookers and Ovens

With kitchens in high demand for Christmas feasts, ensure your gas cooker or oven operates safely. Watch for uneven flames or difficulty lighting burners.

4) Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Test or replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide alarms. These life-saving devices can alert you to dangerous levels of this odorless and colourless gas.

5) Gas Meters and Pipes

Inspect your gas meter and exposed pipes for damage or corrosion. If you spot anything suspicious, contact a professional immediately.

https://www.smstscourse.org.uk

Asbestos Management Company wins gold trophy at Wembley Stadium

An asbestos management consultancy with bases in Northampton, Cleckheaton, London and Wolverhampton, is celebrating after being named Business of the Year at a national awards ceremony in London.

Acorn Analytical Services won Gold in the category of Business of the Year (more than 50 employees) at the Northamptonshire SME Awards in May, before going up against their national counterparts in the National SME Awards.

The ceremony took place at the iconic Wembley Stadium on Friday, December 4th and saw hundreds of people from businesses all over the UK come together to see if they had been successful at winning one of the coveted trophies. Many of the finalists – Acorn Analytical Services included – made it through to the grand final after winning their category at a regional level earlier in the year.

The win topped off an incredible year for the company which

included moving to larger premises at the end of 2023 and employing an additional 12 people in 2024, taking the team up to 70 staff. The company also won numerous high profile contracts, working with High Street retailers, councils and schools and raised just under £10,000 for charity through various fundraisers over the course of 2024.

Judges recognised these achievements and the ‘outstanding initiative, boldness and imagination in the enterprise, as well as sound management practices.’

For more information on Acorn Analytical Services, please visit: www.acorn-as.com

Abloy UK celebrates Patrick Jefferies’ 30 years of dedicated service

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Patrick Jefferies, Abloy UK’s esteemed Commercial Director, as he celebrates 30 years of dedicated service to the company and the industry. Pat’s journey with the company is a testament to his unwavering commitment to safety, compliance, and innovation in the field of security solutions.

Starting as a Regional Sales Representative in 1994, Pat’s career with Abloy has seen him progress through various roles, including National Sales Manager, Academy Director, and Commercial Director in 2011. Throughout his time with the company, Pat has

Fresh shortlisted for prestigious award at the 2025 Global Student Living Awards

Fresh, a leading specialist third-party manager of residential for rent homes, is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted for the Best Booking Experience Award for the UK and Ireland at the Global Student Living Awards (GSL). The recognition is a testament to Fresh’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for residents, starting at the point of booking.

The Best Booking Experience shortlist was determined by the ratings from residents in the Autumn wave of the Global Student Living (GSL) Index. As such, the results reflect real student opinions and experiences about their booking experience with Fresh.

The GSL Autumn wave, which ran from 21st October to 30th November, was actively promoted across all Fresh student properties. Following the extensive and successful campaign across the

student portfolio, an impressive one third of Fresh’s residents participated and gave ratings. The questions focused on the students’ personal experiences booking and moving into their new accommodation.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London following the GSL Live event in October 2025. Fresh will now prepare for the next GSL Index Wave in March, with the aim of securing further improvements to its scores follow its focus on constantly enhancing the student living experience.

For more information, please visit: www.thisisfresh.com

been dedicated to the company’s growth and to advancing standards in the security and access control industry.

A major achievement during Pat’s career was the establishment of the Abloy Academy, which was created to offer training programs that focus on safety, compliance, and best practices in security and access control. The Academy has helped educate installers, specifiers, and other professionals in the industry, supporting the adoption of industry standards.

In recognition of his contributions, Pat was awarded the Abloy Trusted Advisor of the Year Award in 2022. This award highlights his ongoing commitment to the security industry and his work in promoting safety and compliance. He is also Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) qualified and became a Bronze Medal Holder in 1999.

To learn more the Abloy Academy and to view upcoming course dates, go to: https://bit.ly/3VAJwB3

Atlas Copco scoops Energy and Sustainability Award at AMPS Awards for Excellence 2024

This year’s Association of Manufacturers and Suppliers of Power Generating Systems (AMPS) Awards for Excellence recognized Atlas Copco’s ground-breaking ZSC 100-400 Portable Solar Container.

The awards, which celebrate innovation and sustainable solutions in the power generation industry, was presented in late November at a ceremony held at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London.

The coveted Energy & Sustainability Award went to Atlas Copco’s revolutionary ZSC 100-400 Portable Solar Container. It represents a leap forward in renewable energy technology, offering a portable, ‘plug-and-play’ solar power solution designed to meet the demands of remote worksites, construction projects, events, and off-grid operations. Its innovative design combines ease-of-use, flexibility, and sustainability, making it a game-changer for industries

seeking greener, more cost-effective energy solutions.

With 200 solar panels delivering clean energy and minimal maintenance requirements, the ZSC 100-400 is redefining the possibilities for temporary and remote power needs. Its innovative design saves weeks of installation time compared to traditional setups, making it ideal for emergency power deployment, brownfield or greenfield operations, and versatile worksites.

Please visit: www.atlascopco.com

Facilities & Estates Management

Goland Recruitment

Here at Goland Recruitment Ltd, we have extensive network and experience in placing exceptional candidates for the role you require. Whether it be in Construction, Retail, Hospitality or Commercial we are at your disposal to do the leg work for you.

Gates for added protection

For homeowners or businesses looking to improve security, installing a gate is a step in the right direction. Gates are an important deterrent in residential and business areas against opportunistic burglary or even vandalism, making homes and properties less of a target for criminals.

Save time and money when recruiting for temporary or permanent/full-time position as we spend a considerable amount of time reading through the specifications and searching for exceptional candidates.

Please give us a call or drop us an email today if you require our assistance and we will do our best to get you the right person for the job at a rate that suits your budget.

Our full time placements fees are normally 12% to 15% depending on the role and the salary, we now however have a set rate for all permanent roles placements of 8% no matter what the salary, but for your first two placements we are running a special offer of 5% across the board so don’t miss out.

Please keep us in mind for all your Recruitment requirements, much appreciated.

T 01908 102078 info@goland.group www.goland.group

Castle Gates & Automation is a leading bespoke gate installation company, from wooden, metal to metal frames gates clad in wood or composite, with many other options available. The company is based in Great Gaddesden, Hertfordshire and can offer modern upgrading of existing gates, through to installations of bespoke, new designs. With an extensive portfolio, customers can choose from manual and automated gate options, with a further choice of above-ground, or concealed underground automated gate motors. For level driveways, homeowners can opt for sliding gates, if preferred.

For additional ease and convenience, each gate automation has a remotecontrol fob access, with keyboard entry systems or audio/video systems optionally available for added security measures. Intercoms have become standardised now with many homes and businesses around the country and Castle Gates & Automation can supply GSM Audio Intercoms, GSM Video Intercoms, Wired Audio Intercoms and Wired Video Intercoms.

Installing state-of-the-art CCTV gives optimised security, day and night and when you’re not at home or on holiday. Castle Gates & Automation provides an extensive range of cameras including: short and long range, through to wide-angles, so your whole property is always expertly covered.

Enquire today to find your perfect gate: T 01442 253341 enquiries@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk

M&E specialist Linaker announces new partnership with international defence company BABCOCKTM

Following a five way tender process, Linaker has been awarded an eight figure contract that will cover 26 army bases across the UK

Following a competitive five-way tender process, Linaker has been awarded the prestigious framework with Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, to supply hard service maintenance to its UK wide Defence Support Group (DSG) portfolio. The new partnership will see Linaker and Babcock work together to create a new standard of collaboration moving toward a relational contract with shared goals and values accredited to ISO 44001.

Linaker will deliver hard service maintenance for Babcock at sites where Babcock delivers critical equipment and vehicle support services to the British Army, thus making the importance of this contract all the greater. Linaker tailors its services to the unique needs of its clients, always applying its pioneering people-first, technology-driven approach to form genuine partnerships that deliver consistently high levels of service. It is this approach that makes the new partnership with Babcock so exciting as

they unite on a shared vision to accredit their new relationship to ISO 44001.

The Babcock DSG portfolio will form the first of many portfolios covered by the framework and includes 26 army base sites across the UK. This first portfolio is going to focus on the building blocks of

culture and technology, working with the current onsite team to ensure they are fully immersed into the new partnership via support and training, whilst a further 16 engineers will be brought on board to facilitate contract delivery.

Please visit: www.linaker.com

Fusion21 announces suppliers appointed to £700 million Workplace and Facilities Management Framework

Following a competitive tender process, Fusion21 is pleased to announce the suppliers successfully appointed to its national Workplace and Facilities Management Framework, worth up to £700 million over four years.

A total of 45 specialist firms – 40% being SMEs, have secured a place on the framework – now in its third iteration due to its previous success and designed to provide a range of hard and soft facilities management (FM) services to support the operation of public buildings.

Providing regional and national coverage, the framework offers access to supply chain innovation and efficiencies and will facilitate the outsourcing of building management contracts, enabling organisations to focus on their core activities.

The framework is split into four lots:

s Lot 1: Total Facilities Management

s Lot 2: Cleaning Services

s Lot 3: Security Services

s Lot 4: Building Engineering Services

Peter Francis, Group Executive Director (Operations) at Fusion21 said, “Having listened to member and supplier feedback, we’ve streamlined previous lots to create a new generation of the Workplace and Facilities Management Framework, suitable for various building types

and covering single sites to national portfolios.”

“Working with a team of technical procurement experts and pre-qualified suppliers, our members will be supported to deliver increased operational efficiency, while benefiting from a fast route to market and flexible call-off options.”

“As with all Fusion21 frameworks, this latest framework enables our members to deliver social value they can see in communities, aligned with their organisational priorities.”

Successful suppliers appointed to Fusion21’s national Workplace and Facilities Management Framework:

s Amey Community Limited

s Atlas Maintenance Services Ltd

s BAM FM Limited

s Bellrock Property & Facilities Management Limited

s CBES Limited

s CBRE Managed Services Limited

s Chase Services Group Ltd

s Chequers Contract Services Ltd

s City Group Security Limited

s Compact Security Services Limited

s D2 Facilities Ltd

s Diamond Facilities Support Limited

s Diamond UK Facilities Management Ltd

s DMA Maintenance Limited

s EJ Parker Technical Services (Scotland South) Ltd

s EMCOR Group (UK) plc

s Equans Services Limited

s Eric Wright FM Limited

s G4S Facilities Management (UK) Limited

s Galliford Try Facilities Management Limited

s Graffins Services Limited

s Grosvenor Facilities Management Limited

s Guarding Professionals Ltd

s H.& J. Martin Limited

s Irwin M&E Limited

s ISS Mediclean Limited

s Kingdom Services Group Limited

s Lancer Scott Facilities Management Limited

s Lorne Stewart PLC

s M J Quinn Integrated Services Limited

s Mitie FM Limited

s Norse Commercial Services Limited

s OCS Group UK Limited

s Oracle Security Services Ltd

s Pareto Facilities Management Limited

s SBFM Limited

s SENCAT LTD

s Sewell Facilities Management Limited

s Spectrum Service Solutions Limited

s Supreme Protection Limited

s T3 Security Limited

s Tenon FM Limited

s Total Clean Services Limited

s Wates Property Services Limited

s Wetton Cleaning Services Limited

T 0845 308 2321 info@fusion21.co.uk www.fusion21.co.uk