Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

August 2021

CONSTRUCTIONMAGUK.CO.UK

KENT CONSTRUCTION EXPO BRINGING THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR BACK TOGETHER THIS OCTOBER

Coventry University to Create Digital Building of the Future with Schneider Electric and Planon

Monster-Mesh

Event & Construction Branding

Kier appointed to deliver £15m Ness Castle primary school in Inverness

GSE GROUP

PROVIDING CIVIL ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION & PLANT HIRE SERVICES

CLC and CITB announce new approach to supporting mental health in construction

BELLWAY LEADS WAY FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION WITH NEW APPOINTMENTS

Contents August 2021

04

New custom build community at Ebbsfleet Garden City given green light

05

Kier appointed to deliver £15m Ness Castle primary school in Inverness

06

Land & Water completes dredging works at Peel Marina in the Isle of Man

08

Feature: Construction and the face covering conundrum

10

Coventry University to Create Digital Building of the Future with Schneider Electric and Planon

14

Woodlands House is restored to its former glory for new residents

16

Work Begins on First Phase of Olney Park Mixed-Use Masterplan

18

Kent Construction Expo: Bringing the Construction Sector Back Together this October

27

Cork Airport runway reconstruction awarded to Colas Ltd

30

John F Hunt appointed as Principal Contractor for Hines new European Headquarters on Drury Lane

38

CLC & CITB announce new approach to supporting mental health in construction

42

Sir Robert McAlpine commits to the Science Based Targets initiative to cut emissions

Front cover image by Adam Borkowski

Lapthorn Media Ltd 5-7 Ozengell Place, Eurokent Business Park, Ramsgate, Kent, CT12 6PB Tel: 01843 808 106 Editor Maria Lapthorn editor@constructionmaguk.co.uk Editorial Assistant Francesca Amato editorial@constructionmaguk.co.uk Features Editor Paul Attwood paul@constructionmaguk.co.uk

04

05

06 10

14

16

18

27

30

42

Production/Design Laura Whitehead laura@constructionmaguk.co.uk Sales Executive Hannah Marshall hannah@constructionmaguk.co.uk Accounts Richard Lapthorn accounts@constructionmaguk.co.uk Circulation Manager Leo Phillips subs@constructionmaguk.co.uk Website Content Russel Goldsmith russel@lapthornmedia.co.uk Website: www.constructionmaguk.co.uk

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Construction UK Magazine however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufactures or contributors.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including photocopying) or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 03

Project News NEW CUSTOM BUILD COMMUNITY AT EBBSFLEET GARDEN CITY GIVEN GREEN LIGHT On Wednesday, 21 July, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation’s planning committee granted planning approval for Alkerden Gateway, a unique custom build community at Ebbsfleet Garden City.

Developed by Westerhill Homes and designed by award-winning architect, BPTW, this project seeks to create a characterful, bespoke neighbourhood and a vibrant place to live, that allows residents to help design as well as choose their dream home.

The development consists of 67 homes, including 17 (25%) affordable homes. Addressing the lack of supply of custom build homes within the market, this development provides an opportunity for originality and an innovative approach to the treatment of individual plots.

From floor plans and materials to kitchen and parking spaces, Alkerden Gateway presents an exciting opportunity for future residents to be involved in the design and build process. Sustainability and biodiversity have also been considered with solar PV panels, tree planting and the installation of bird or bat boxes also among the customisation options.

Alkerden Gateway is the first key development parcel at the transition from Castle Hill to Alkerden village.

It is bordered by a strategic area of green parkland to the east (Central Green Zone), a large-scale Education Campus to the west and other residential developments to the north and south.

The decision follows the submission of a Reserved Matters planning application in March 2021, and a pre-application consultation process in which residents, businesses and stakeholders shared their views and informed the final proposals.

Julian Moat, Planning Director at Westerhill Homes said: “As a Kentbased housebuilder, we are delighted to have secured planning permission from Ebbsfleet Development Corporation for the delivery of our exciting, bespoke custom build homes at Ebbsfleet Garden City. By working with an outstanding project team – including BPTW Architecture, LUC landscape design and Knapp Hicks engineers – we have developed an innovative six stage customisation process for all private market homes. This will allow individual purchasers to make a series of external and internal choices to their homes at the point of reservation, meaning the homes can be tailored to suit their design preferences and lifestyle choices.

“We anticipate a strong market demand for customisation in the new build market, and coupled with the strong pull of Garden City living, we fully expect these new homes to prove popular as we now commence on the marketing and delivery aspects of the site.”

Chris Bath, Partner, Architecture at BPTW, said: “Marking the only custombuild phase in the wider Whitecliffe masterplan, for us, Alkerden Gateway, presents an exciting opportunity to design an innovative community that both speaks of its setting, and embraces the full potential of a homeowner-led, organic variety across the scheme. Over the past few years, we’ve been proud to be involved in projects at Ebbsfleet Garden City and across the South East, and this development demonstrates our continued commitment to delivering high-quality new homes and transformative new places for the area. We’re delighted to see Alkerden approved at committee and look forward to seeing the next stages of the project come together.”

Now that planning permission has been granted, construction is expected to commence onsite this summer.

BELLWAY BUILDS ON LEGACY OF LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT IN STOCKTON Bellway Durham is marking a new era in Stockton, as the company ‘passes the torch’ from one landmark development site to the next.

The housebuilder recently handed over the keys to the final plot at Queensgate, a 10-year project which has delivered 474 new homes off Yarm Road in Stockton.

While the final occupants have been moving into their new homes at Queensgate, Bellway has also commenced work at Old School Gardens, a development of 80 homes set to transform a former school site off Blakeston Lane.

Following an early launch at the beginning of the year, due to high demand for housing in the area, the first homes at Old School Gardens have already been reserved by buyers, marking the start of a new chapter for the housebuilder.

Hayley Teasdale, Sales Manager of Bellway Durham, said: “Queensgate has been a flagship project for our division, and we are proud to see it reach a successful end, in time to begin more housebuilding within Stockton.

“There is still a great demand for new housing here and we are looking forward to continuing our legacy within the area, by delivering a further collection of high-quality new homes at Old School Gardens.

“Potential buyers who are interested in any of the homes at Old School Gardens can contact our sales team at the development.”

Once construction work is complete at Old School Gardens, Bellway will have delivered a total of 554 homes within Stockton.

Queensgate has been a flagship project for our division, and we are proud to see it reach a successful end, in time to begin more housebuilding within Stockton.

04 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

Project News

KIER APPOINTED TO DELIVER £15M NESS CASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL IN INVERNESS

Kier, a leading provider of construction and infrastructure services, has been appointed

by The Highland Council to design and build their new £15m Ness Castle primary school and nursery in Inverness. Procured through the Scottish Procurement Alliance framework, the new facilities will serve two new housing developments in Inverness and provide 850 new pupil places.

The new school is set to be one of the largest in the Highlands and will be constructed in two phases, the first stage will provide 12 classrooms and three playrooms for nursery children.

The project is due to be complete by autumn 2022 and as part of our commitment to

leaving a lasting legacy in the areas in which it builds Kier will provide a range of opportunities to the local community including at least five new apprenticeships, 13 work placements, ten new job opportunities and career talks at schools within a close radius of the project.

Phil McDowell, regional director at Kier Regional Building North & Scotland, said: “We are delighted to have started work at Ness Castle Primary School.

“This project award continues our long-standing relationship with The Highland Council and we are looking forward to delivering this much-needed new school for the Inverness community.”

Chair of the Education Committee, Cllr John Finlayson said: “This is an exciting development for the area and for the school’s current pupils and staff who I am sure are eagerly awaiting it’s completion.

“The new school will not only meet the needs of the school community but is also prepared to deliver against any future accommodation demands that may arise.

Hopefully we will see the building grow and evolve alongside the local community.”

This award reinforces Kier’s position as a leading provider of education facilities, with the completion of the £34m Alness Academy at the end of last year.

DAVIDSONS HOMES REACHES CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE AT HANSLOPE DEVELOPMENT More than a third of the homes have now been completed at a new housing development in Hanslope.

Davidsons Homes is building 141 properties at The Wheatfields, off Long Street Road, where construction work began in July 2019.

A total of 62 homes have now been built and occupied at the development, while a further 22 have already been sold or reserved off plan.

Comprising a mix of three, four and fivebedroom houses alongside areas of green open space, The Wheatfields is due to be completed by the end of 2022.

As part of the planning agreement for the development, Davidsons Homes is providing funding of more than £2.2 million towards local services and infrastructure.

Contributions include £1.1 million for education and £200,000 towards local healthcare facilities. A £32,737 community hall contribution, £105,750 neighbourhood play contribution and £137,633 playing field contribution are also being provided.

Simon Tyler, Sales Director for Davidsons Homes South Midlands, said: “This marks a significant milestone in the construction programme at The Wheatfields and reflects the strong demand for homes at the development. With 65 homes now occupied, a thriving community is already beginning to form. The Wheatfields is proving to be popular with both Buckinghamshire residents and buyers from London seeking to relocate to a more rural setting - a trend which has grown since the start of the pandemic. The development’s close proximity to Milton Keynes means commuters can get to the capital easily by train, while Newport Pagnell and Northampton are just a short drive away.

It is this combination of good transport links, traditional village shops and pubs, and a tranquil rural location which is proving so appealing to housebuyers.”

Davidsons Homes also donated £250 to Spencer Contact, a Northampton-based second-hand furniture charity, to help support the running costs of one of its delivery vans which service the village.

Meanwhile, Milton Keynes Scout District Scouts received the same amount towards the upgrade of its archery range at The Quarries Campsite in Cosgrove.

Simon added: “In addition to the funding we are providing to deliver infrastructure improvements in the village and surrounding area, we are committed to supporting local charities and community organisations. It has been an especially challenging year for such groups due to closures and a lack of fundraising opportunities, so we have been keen to provide assistance wherever we can.”

As well as the financial contributions being made to Milton Keynes Council, Davidsons Homes has also supported a number of local charities and organisations.

Hanslope Primary School received a tonne of decorative gravel from the housebuilder for one of its new gravel pits, enabling it to create a new learning area for pupils.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 05

Project News

LAND & WATER COMPLETES DREDGING WORKS AT PEEL MARINA IN THE ISLE OF MAN Leading wet civil engineers Land & Water has completed dredging works on behalf of the Isle of Man Government as part of a wider three-year project which has removed over 22,000m3 of silt from Peel Marina. This has helped to significantly improve the water depths, improving the marina’s access and functionality for years to come.

and dewatering. The lagoon was carefully constructed to meet specific requirements, meaning that any remaining heavy metals and other contaminants can be safely contained. Now that the dredging is complete, the material will be allowed to dry before being removed to a licensed facility. The former greenfield site will then be returned to its original state.

“Having returned to the island in February this year, during the Isle of Man’s third national lockdown, I would like to thank the dedicated Land & Water project team who were willing to travel and stay away from their homes and families to ensure we could continue delivering high quality services to improve and maintain waterways across every part of the UK.

Having previously removed approx. 40% of silt last year, using its specialist plant including long reach excavators on floating barges, Land & Water has now dredged the remaining materials between March and May this year.

Charlie Oakes, Project Manager at Land & Water, said:

“Going above and beyond for our clients is something that we pride ourselves on at Land & Water and I am proud to have witnessed the strength and commitment from the project team during such challenging circumstances.”

All silt has been transported to the drying lagoon which was constructed and lined

by Land & Water last spring for storage

We are pleased to have completed this groundbreaking three-year project and to have supported the Isle of Man Government in its all-important venture to safeguard Peel Marina.

The Peel Marina dredging project was only one of two major contracts to be allowed to continue working on the Isle of Man during the previous lockdown period. The Land & Water team complied with all Coronavirus guidelines by self-isolating on the island beforehand and taking the required Covid-19 tests.

After showing its resilience and ability to adapt working methods to meet the ongoing Coronavirus restrictions, Land & Water has re-established the efficiency of Peel Marina for the future.

The Peel Marina project is vital to the local community; this work promises to ease pressures put on the marina, ensuring that it is restored to its correct level for access and operation. This will continue to bring real economic benefits to Peel.

With the works split across two phases, every stage of this project was carefully considered and structured to safely handle the materials removed from this site. Land & Water is proud to have contributed to a project which promises to bring about such positive change.

06 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

One Worklight.

Many Battery Systems.

Compatible with 18V batteries from Powertool manufacturers

· Bosch Professional · Makita · Dewalt · Milwaukee · Metabo CAS Attach the adapter, plug in the appropriate battery and get started!

Detailing CRI LED Lights

LED Worklights

LED Clip-Lights

High Performance LED worklights Extremely bright and robust LED work light from brennenstuhl® for perfect and trouble-free work.

Practical features for demanding applications in the trades, e.g. on the construction site or during assembly.

Inquiries for any of our products please contact: uk@brennenstuhl.de

Feature

CONSTRUCTION AND THE FACE COVERING CONUNDRUM

Francesca Hodgson

By legal directors Francesca Hodgson and Dan Fawcett from law firm Womble Bond Dickinson To mask or not to mask?

There is a lot of discussion about masks at the moment as, from 19 July, it is no longer legally required to wear these in England.

The Government is leaving the decision on whether or not to wear masks down to businesses and individuals.

But how do construction businesses make this decision? If you tell your workers “no masks at all”, some (especially the vulnerable) may be anxious and refuse to work - but equally, can you really tell your workers “you must wear one” when the legal requirement to do so is now lifted? How do you balance safety against risk?

Industry guidance The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has announced that it has now updated its Use of Face Coverings in Construction guidance in light of the Government’s position.

The Use of Face Coverings guidance (version 2, September 2020) used to say: “Where workers on site are not required to wear Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) and their workplace (which may include welfare and changing facilities, site offices or site meeting rooms) meets all of the criteria below, their employer should make face coverings available and they should be worn in: an enclosed space; where social distancing isn’t always possible; and where they come into contact with others they do not normally meet. In line with Government guidance on premises providing hospitality, face coverings must be worn in canteens except when seated at a table to eat or drink.”

But this has been changed to (version 3, July 2021): “Where workers on site are not required to wear Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) and their workplace (which may include welfare and changing facilities, site offices or site

Dan Fawcett

meeting rooms) is crowded and enclosed and they come into contact with others they do not normally meet, their employer should make face coverings available and it is expected and recommended that they should be worn.”

The CLC’s Site Operating Procedures, which have been followed since they were first published last year, now state that they are “no longer current and remain available as a reference document” – and have been updated to remove sections on social distancing, working from home if you can, and wearing face coverings (instead directing you to the Use of Face Coverings guidance).

Additionally, if employers intend to encourage the use of face coverings but not mandate it they will need to consider how active they want their encouragement to be.

There could be a significant difference between the response of employees to signage and the response that results from managers actively challenging anyone not wearing a face covering and reminding them of the risks.

As such, the guidance is that employers should still provide face coverings – and workers are expected to wear them…but don’t have to.

Coupled with the above, employees have rights not to be subjected to a detriment (for example reduced pay or disciplinary action) or dismissed if:

So what approach could employers take?

•

they take appropriate steps to protect themselves (or others) in circumstances of danger that they reasonably believe are serious and imminent, or

•

they leave or refuse to return to work in circumstances of danger that they reasonably believe are imminent and serious and which the employee could not reasonably be expected to avert.

The social distancing requirements section has also been removed from version 3.

The guidance could leave employers in a difficult position. Unions and some employees may be keen for the use of face coverings to continue but some employees may have their own ideological objections to wearing them. Others won’t be able to for medical reasons. In contrast to that, other employees may want their colleagues to wear masks because their own circumstances mean they or others in their household are at higher risk from COVID. Employers have duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 to conduct their businesses in such a way as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of their workers and others affected by their activities. Key to this are risk assessments: these need to be proactively reviewed as the guidance continues to evolve and in response to any other relevant circumstances (for example the hot summer weather can bring with it additional risks to the health of construction workers, which may be increased if masks are worn).

Overall, our legal view is that there is no reason why an employer could not mandate the continued use of face coverings or actively encourage their use as long as allowances are made for vulnerable employees who cannot wear them and any health and safety risks have been properly assessed. The biggest legal risk is a disability discrimination claim and it should be possible to mitigate that by making reasonable adjustments for those employees who are genuinely unable to wear a face covering because of a disability.

However, conversations with employees who choose not to wear a mask would need to be handled sensitively.

08 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

The situation may be further complicated where there are a number of different employers operating on the same construction site, where differing policies could result in confusion. That situation could, indeed should, be addressed given the obligations on employers to liaise, cooperate and co-ordinate on health and safety issues imposed under Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

The above rights are complex and, to date, there has been a reasonable argument that they do not arise if an employer is following Government guidance on how to deal with the pandemic. However, our experience is that unions are well aware of employees’ rights from a health and safety perspective and it is not yet clear as to how the Employment Tribunals would deal with a situation in which Government guidance has begun to diverge from much of medical opinion.

The key practical steps that construction businesses can take are to ensure they can explain the justification for any measures they adopt, including by reference to risk assessments and consideration of any exemptions to a mask mandate and how these would be applied.

Simple. Seamless. Quality.

HPR Rapidmax SF • 100% Solvent-free • Non-Flammable • Non-Hazardous • No VOC odour • Rapid Curing HPR Rapidmax SF is our one-component, solvent free, polyurethane waterproofing membrane, which upon polymerisation forms an elastomeric, seamless polyurethane coating, that fully bonds to the substrate. It is solvent-free, with no VOC odour, which makes it ideal for sensitive or live projects such as hospitals, schools etc.

HPR-025 Liquid Waterproofing Unit 5 Mill Park Cannock, WS11 7XT 01543 212830 highlandsperformanceresins.com

Company News COVENTRY UNIVERSITY TO CREATE DIGITAL BUILDING OF THE FUTURE WITH SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC AND PLANON Coventry University has partnered with Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, and Planon, the specialist in workplace management systems to upgrade its Engineering and Computing Building. The work will help to effectively future proof the building, improving sustainability, asset resilience and occupant experience, while reducing operational costs.

Coventry University selected Schneider Electric and Planon to help set and meet its specific requirements. The joint solution is another milestone in the partnership between Planon and Schneider Electric, which began in 2019. Leveraging the synergies between the two companies, it is the first project of its kind in the UK.

inefficiencies. As a result, there is an impact on operating costs, occupant comfort, and asset value.

The IWMS software automatically processes smart building diagnostics from Building Advisor to determine whether an action is needed. It can initiate a standardised workflow or highlight an issue for a manual decision by the facilities team by scheduling and dispatching the work to the field engineers’ mobile phones for execution.

Marcel Groenenboom, Planon CCO at Planon, added: “We always strive to provide the best possible solution to our customers and partners. By working with Schneider Electric and its smart building operating and analytics technology, we can bring new benefits to Coventry University.

The solution involves the integration of two smart systems:

•

Planon’s Integrated Workplace Management System (IWMS), which enables Facility Managers to plan, execute and monitor all activities involved in reactive and planned preventative maintenance, space and move management, asset management, operational facility services, room reservations and other customer services.

•

Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Building Advisor, a suite of analytic monitoring services, that unlocks your Building Management System’s operational performance so you can remotely and proactively maintain your buildings. It provides key insights into your building operations by constantly monitoring systems and identifying faults to proactively address your building’s

Children from Rowlands Gill Primary School wanted to highlight how young people had been effected by the Covid-19 crisis.

Filled with significant items such as hand sanitiser, face coverings and posters about covid safety – as well as video footage and photographs of activities undertaken in school - the children worked with developer Vistry Partnerships North East on the project.

Vistry donated the capsule and materials for the creation of a large collage - inspired by the Bayeuex Tapestry – and which allowed pupils of all ages to share their experiences of the pandemic. It also agreed

“We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Planon and join forces to work on the project at Coventry University,” said Kas Mohammed, Vice President of Digital Energy at Schneider Electric.

“Buildings of the future must be sustainable, hyper-efficient, resilient, and people-focused.

The Covid-19 pandemic has added a new dimension to this shift: buildings must support resiliency and continuity. The university clearly understands the need to future-proof its buildings, as it strives to provide the best possible environment for occupants.”

Buildings of the future must be sustainable, hyper-efficient, resilient, and people-focused.

BURYING THE PAST AS LOCKDOWN ENDS A time capsule cataloguing the history of the pandemic for future generations has been burried as lockdown restrictions ease.

“All three parties share a common vision on the role of digital technology and its contribution to creating safe, healthy, sustainable, and efficient data-driven buildings. We can’t wait to see the results at Coventry.”

to bury the capsule at Gibside Chase, where it is constructing new homes for sale under the Linden Homes brand.

“Within Rowlands Gill Primary School, it is our priority to recognise the impact Covid may have had on our children,” said Year Two teacher, Rhonda Winskill.

“Working on the project has allowed us to celebrate life returning to something more normal whilst reflecting on the children’s personal experiences during this time.”

The school’s Head Girl said, “We have spent the last year of school working in bubbles and not mixing with children in other classes or year groups.

“Seeing our time capsule ‘tapestry’ was really nice as we saw lots of the younger children’s work alongside our own.”

10 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

The Head Boy added: “I think our finished work looks really good. I have really enjoyed being part of the project,” Vistry Partnerships North East Operations Director, Dave Brown, added: “As lockdown restrictions ease and the end of the school year approaches, this seems like a fitting way to mark the end of this chapter in all of our lives - but in a way that remembers the sacrifices and challenges that we have faced.

The children have worked so hard on this project and when the capsule is opened in many years time, I’m sure it will offer an incredible insight to what this unprecedented period was like for young people and how they came through it.”

Vistry Partnerships North East is currently active on 14 construction sites around the region with a gross development value of just under £360 million and is working with seven Housing Associations and five local authorities.

Perfect For Your Next Re-Roofing Project!

Designed with the environment in mind Does your current supplier have the lightest synthetic slate tile on the market?

Does your current supplier achieve a 12 ° Pitch?

Does your current supplier care about the environment?

Does your current supplier manufacture in Britain?

Liteslate can weigh as little as 10kg per m², ideal for projects in need of a light footprint, or older structures that cannot hold heavy, traditional tiles.

14 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year due to the use of virgin plastics.

Britmet Liteslate is manufactured using over 90% recycled polymers. By the end of 2021, Britmet will recycle over 3 million kilograms of polypropylene.

Does your current supplier use more than 30% limestone content?

Limestone content over 30% often leads to colour fade in synthetic slate. Thats why Britmet only uses 20% to ensure you have a roof that lasts a lifetime.

Liteslate was tested by the BRE for roof pitches as low as 12 °, offering the ideal lightweight roofing solution for our customers, with a traditional tile appearance.

By manufacturing in the UK, we pride ourselves on upholding a high standard of professional ethics. With a central location like the West Midlands, we work with a number of distribution networks, boasting national coverage.

Does your current supplier focus on usability rather than quality?

As Liteslate has a reduced limestone content, it will not crack, split or break. However, it can easily be cut using a circular saw or a jigsaw.

Check out our amazing colour range!

sales@britmet.co.uk | 01295 250998 | www.britmet.co.uk | #TheBritmethod

MASKING A PROBLEM? The UK Construction industry has improved substantially on its Safety record over the last few decades, but certain Health issues in the industry are under some scrutiny at the moment.

Respiratory complaints such as COPD and occupational Asthma caused by exposure to harmful dusts, gases and vapours are often not immediately diagnosed, and are on the rise.

Symptoms do not manifest themselves for a number of years or even decades, by which time it is often too late to reverse debilitating medical conditions. The health issues caused

by Silica dust (Silicosis) are a top priority for the HSE who are looking to reduce the worrying increasing number of sufferers. With over 35000 workers reporting they currently have breathing/ lung problems, caused or made worse by work, the cost to the construction industry in both lost time and expertise is enormous. Are you masking a problem?

Sundström are a third generation family company with a passion for designing and manufacturing respiratory equipment. We have 95 years experience, and are proud of our reputation for quality and innovation.

Our range includes a solution to most environments found in construction from half masks to airline, powered solutions to escape hoods. UK Sales Manager Tony Smith added; ‘It is not only about understanding the contaminant, but also the needs of the wearer, the employer and their legislative requirements. The equipment must be acceptable to all parties but above all it must be comfortable and compatible with all other PPE used by the wearer.’

SR 900

Sundström’s extensive range provides a solution to all your ‘masking problems’.

SR 200

Sundström are a third generation family company with a passion for designing and manufacturing respiratory equipment. We have 95 years experience, and are proud of our reputation for quality and innovation.

SR 500/580

The SR 100 half mask is widely used as the product of choice in the asbestos industry due to its excellent face fit performance. Due to the popularity of facial hair and the legal requirement to undertake face fit testing, the use of negative pressure masks may not be acceptable. Our powered units offer a comfortable and highly effective solution to extended respiratory practices whilst not requiring a face fit.

18 2021 August 2021 12 Construction UK Magazine - April xx

Our SR 900 respiratory system gives the user the option to use a remote housing worn on a belt which takes the cumbersome heavy filter away from the face. This facilitates usage under visors, welding masks or just to improve on wearer acceptability.

The same mask can be used on both powered and airline equipment offering a complete inter connective respiratory solution.

With a team of technical experts UK wide Sundström are happy to visit your sites.

Give us a call and ‘unmask’ your respiratory problems!

For further information please contact ukhelpdesk@srsafety.com or visit our website www.srsafety.com

WIELAND MAKES A QUICK CONNECTION AT PROJECT HANA

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Wieland Electric has supplied its popular Metalynx2 modular wiring system and a variety of the company’s GST products for Project Hana, a two floor CAT B fit out commercial property at St Martin’s Court in the City of London in a prime location next to St Pauls Cathedral.

We design and manufacture world class respiratory protection

The Wieland products were specified and installed by Phoenix ME Ltd with the Metalynx2 system used to feed the lighting control modules and fan coil units throughout the building whilst the GST system was used in all prefabricated modular areas to provide a connection for linear light fittings.

Thanks to its innovative design, Metalynx2 uses a minimum number of components, all of which lock together for secure installation and in full compliance with all relevant standards, representing a smarter generation of structured wiring that delivers even greater savings on costs and installation time. It is ideal for power distribution, lighting control (including DALI and KNX) and fan coil units and, with the ability to customise Metalynx2 components for special projects, it offers infinite design flexibility.

As Project Hana was a fast pace refurbishment, it was paramount that all systems and components would arrive on site in the agreed timescale. Wieland designed, plotted and fabricated all requirements off site which when delivered, allowed for easy installation by Phoenix to ensure connection simply from the home run being installed back to Switchboard +44 330 808 8935 the distribution board and the final runs to the lighting control modules ukhelpdesk@srsafety.com and fan Email coil units.

As all connections and end runs have a plug and play based system, this also allowed for second fix connections to be completed quickly and effortlessly.

Tel: 01483 531213

Web: www.wieland.co.uk

Construction dust

What is construction dust?

to construction dust in a construction environment. Anyone who inhales construction dust should be aware of the health risks this may cause.

TALENT- ctct

Many building tradesman CM0821023 Wieland Electric Ltd QP.indd 1 may be exposed

Regular inhalation, of even small quantities of construction dust, can damage the lungs and respiratory airways over the course of time. Some diseases can develop quite quickly, but in many cases, it can take 10 to 30 years before symptoms become apparent.

Unfortunately, by the time the problem is noticed, irreparable damage is often done, and it can be difficult or impossible to treat.

Construction dustCM0721007 is a broad term, there 10/08/2021 09:47:30 HFE Signs QP.indd 1 are many different types of dust one may be exposed to in a construction environment. The largest particles, which are visible, are captured by the body’s natural defences, and remain, in most cases in the nose, mouth and throat. The small particles, which are invisible to the human eye, are the most dangerous, and can cause scarring of the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.

obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and includes diseases such as chronic14:29:26 29/06/2021 bronchitis and emphysema.

Construction dust can also cause allergies.

Respiratory protection

When all other measures have been taken to reduce dangerous exposure levels, respiratory protection equipment is the last, but an important, means of preventing hazardous air contamination entering the body, via the airways.

CONCRETE QUALIFICATIONS FOR ALL

! d e t i v n i w o ents n Examples of construction dust:

The choice of respiratory protection depends, amongst other factors, on the type of dust present, its WEL (Workplace Exposure Limit), Courses approved by and the nature of the Wood dust arises during work, i.e. the degree of physical exertion work with softwood, and the length of exposure.

On-line training leading to hardwood Institute of and woodConcrete Technology qualifibased cations materials such as Facial hair, such as beards, moustaches and sideburns, reduce the level of protection MDF and plywood. offered by tight-fitting respirators, and Concrete Technology & Construction Other types of dust create a need for Powered Air Respiratory • General Principles arise during work with Protection The Institute ofto ensure adequate levels of contaminant reduction. plaster, glass wool, Concrete Technology • Practical Applications mineral wool, marble, Sundström recommends etc.

Sundström has a team of experienced FURTHER INFORMATION: professionals who can aid with the Health risks: selection of the correct RPE for your Lung damage 01723 such as567432 info@talentconcretetraining.org.uk needs. Contact us on ukhelpdesk@ silicosis, lung cancer, www.talentconcretetraining.org.uk asthma or chronic srsafety.com

Enrolm

Silica dust arises during work with materials containing silica, such as concrete, mortar and sandstone.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 xx 13

Project News

HENRY BROTHERS STARTS WORK ON GLOSSOPDALE SCHOOL EXTENSION Contractor Henry Brothers has broken ground and started work to build a new £4million extension at Glossopdale School, funded by Derbyshire County Council.

The new block will provide an additional nine teaching spaces comprising eight standard classrooms and a demonstration science lab. It will also provide flexible options for dining and social spaces and extra staff workrooms.

Once finished, there will be room for a further 200 students aged 11 to 16, and 40 additional sixth form places.

Construction director of Henry Brothers Midlands, Justin Hicklin, said: “We are excited to have started work on this site to build an extension for Glossopdale School.

Henry Brothers built the main school complex, which has proved popular with students, and we are delighted to have strengthened our relationship with the school by being appointed to create this new block as well.

“Henry Brothers has partnered with Derbyshire County Council and a number of Derbyshire schools on a variety of projects in recent years, helping them to enhance their facilities, and we are looking forward to

building this extension at Glossopdale School to create extra spaces for pupils.”

A small ground-breaking ceremony was held to mark the start on site by Nottingham-based Henry Brothers Midlands.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Alex Dale said: “It’s great news that work has started.

We’ve worked hard to provide the extra places needed and this is a major step forward towards the much-needed expansion of this school.

Headteacher, Debbie McGloin said: “We are really pleased to see this extension move forward and are excited to be able to offer more places for the children in our community.”

It is expected that the new block will be completed in spring 2022, allowing more children to attend from September 2022.

Other members of the team involved in building the extension at the school in Hadfield are employers agent Concertus, DLA Architecture, civil and structural engineer Curtins and Couch Perry Wilkes for M & E services.

Associate director at Concertus Andy Bates said: “We are thrilled to be working for Derbyshire County Council and Henry Brothers to deliver the expansion of Glossopdale Community College.

“We have extensive experience in providing high-quality educational facilities across the region and are excited to be able to celebrate the early stages of this new facility.”

WOODLANDS HOUSE IS RESTORED TO ITS FORMER GLORY FOR NEW RESIDENTS WITH THE HELP OF THE DEVELOPMENT BANK OF WALES The first residents have moved in to the recently refurbished Grade II listed Woodlands House in Malpas, Newport.

Brought back to life by developers Powell Property Developments, Woodlands House is a two storey Grade II Listed building that has been converted into six twobedroom apartments as part of a unique development that also includes seven executive detached properties in a gated community.

Situated within the suburb of Malpas and approximately two miles from Newport City Centre, phases one and two of the Woodlands House development were

funded by the Development Bank of Wales with two loans totalling £1.8 million.

As a customer of the Development Bank of Wales since 2015, Powell Property Developments is run by entrepreneurs Damien Powell and his brother Simon Powell, who has also invested in Comtec Group, Inspire Sport, Inspiretec and Innovantage.

Director Simon Powell said: “We’ve restored the Grade II Listed Woodlands House in Newport back to a home to be proud of. It has been lovingly converted into six executive apartments in a gated community.

14 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

“It’s proved to be an attractive proposition for new home owners with each home and apartment being intricately designed to provide the best interior layout and design.

“This hasn’t been an easy site to develop but with the support of the Development Bank of Wales, we’re delighted to see the community come to life with new residents moving in and enjoying these beautiful and practical homes.”

Stephen Higgins, a Property Development Executive with the Development Bank of Wales said: “As a family run development business, Powell Property Developments specialise in developing new homes and restoring older ones to their former glory.

Project News WILLMOTT DIXON REJUVENATES KIDSGROVE LEISURE CENTRE Willmott Dixon has been contracted

by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council to complete an extensive £7.5m refurbishment of Kidsgrove Leisure Centre, restoring the facility that closed in 2017.

Over the next 12 months, the centre will be given an extensive makeover to bring it back to life for local residents to enjoy.

Willmott Dixon will strip-out the existing interior, roof and glazing, before delivering a full M&E fit-out alongside adding new pool filtration systems and cathodic protection to the existing pool tank.

Procured using the Scape framework, the building will host a range of wet and dry leisure facilities, including a six-lane swimming pool, fitness suite, spin studio, multipurpose studio space and sports hall catering for a range of indoor sports including netball, badminton, basketball, futsal and cricket. The centre will be run by Kidsgrove Sports Centre Community Group.

The project has been made possible through the allocation of £2.45m from Kidsgrove’s Town Deal, as part of the Government’s Towns Fund. The remaining capital funding has been made available from the borough council and partner agencies.

Council leader Simon Tagg said: “Kidsgrove Sports Centre is one of the council’s top priorities. It is wonderful news that the government has agreed to fund the facility

with nearly two and a half million pounds from the Towns Deal Fund. This is yet another measure of the Government’s confidence in what we are trying to achieve right across the borough.

“The community group has achieved a great deal so far, and are committed to the future success of the centre, and there is a very capable board of trustees in place. The council will continue to be involved with the centre and that we will need to provide financial support during the ‘start-up’ years. We have already built that into our financial planning.

The project has moved at quite some speed and it’s amazing to think that the project will be finished, with the centre up and running this time next year.”

Anthony Dillon, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the North, said: “We are delighted to be breathing new life into this much missed leisure facility. Through the launch of the Towns Deal Fund, the Government has put urban regeneration at

the heart of its policies and we are proud to play our role in creating a facility that will play a key role in the physical wellbeing of current and future generations in Kidsgrove.”

Mark Robinson, group chief executive at SCAPE said: “The Towns Deal Fund is all about levelling up our regions and Kidsgrove Leisure Centre will achieve exactly that. By connecting the ambitions of the council with the talents of Willmott Dixon, this important project will create jobs and local opportunities, whilst stimulating the health and wellbeing of the local community. At SCAPE, we’re proud to have played a part in helping the council to accelerate their plans.”

The project is the latest for Willmott Dixon in Staffordshire. The team are also on site delivering a 730-space multi-storey facility in Stoke-on-Trent, and recently handed over the Clayworks build-to-rent apartments and Hilton Garden Inn Hotel at the heart of the transformational Smithfield development.

“We often fund more complex developments like Woodlands House and it is always particularly rewarding to see listed buildings brought back to life.

“Simon and Damien have delivered a truly beautiful and unique development that is ideally positioned. The scrapping of the Severn Bridge tolls and the resilience of the housing market during Covid-19 means that demand has been high for these prestigious properties and we’re delighted to know that our funding has made a real difference.”

The £47 million Wales Property Fund is managed by the Development Bank of Wales on behalf of Welsh Government for the benefit of small and mediumsized developers based in Wales. The fund is recyclable with all money received from investments reinvested. Loans from £150,000 to £5 million are available with repayment terms of 24 months or less.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 15

Project News Executive Director at Angle Property, said “Angle Property is delighted to now have commenced work on site to deliver this mixeduse development. The development will create a range of buildings for various uses which will provide services and employment to the local community as well as a state-of-the-art care home to care for elderly residents. We have recently announced plans and details for further phases and these will be consulted upon and progressed over the remainder of the year. Many thanks to Parkway, GSSArchitecture, WS Project Consulting and many others for getting this project to commencement on site.”

WORK BEGINS ON FIRST PHASE OF OLNEY PARK MIXED-USE MASTERPLAN The Milton Keynes Studio of national architects, GSSArchitecture, are delighted to share that Parkway Construction have recently started on site on site for the construction of a new industrial unit at Olney Park, as part of a wider mixed-use masterplan developed for Angle Property.

GSS were appointed by Angle Property, a leading property developer and investor, to design the wider mixed-use masterplan, which incorporates industrial units, retail and fast food, a nursery and later living accommodation. The proposed landscaping will provide a high-quality amenity for visitors, employees and residents of the

later living accommodation to enjoy, with areas of grassland and wildlife friendly habitats created, alongside ornamental tree specimens which will act as focal points where site users can enjoy the seasonal displays. These plans have benefitted from the guidance of GSSArchitecture’s specialist Health and Wellbeing Working Group, whose focus is to research and apply the latest Health and Wellbeing practices into their designs, significantly improving these developments for those who will be visiting them for work and leisure.

Speaking of the mixed-used masterplan at the Olney Park site, Tony Williamson,

This current stage of the delivery of the overall masterplan consists of the design and construction of a new 1100m2 light industrial unit, with the project consisting of integral office accommodation, associated service yard and site-wide infrastructure.

The unit will be two-storeys in height and is designed to be contemporary in appearance, with an industrial aesthetic, and sits back from the main access road to facilitate a landscape buffer between the building and the road. The construction of this first industrial unit marks the beginning of the entire 11-acre mixed-use masterplan development, which GSSArchitecture are helping to deliver over several phases.

Chris Chapman, Partner at GSSArchitecture said, “I’m delighted that Parkway Construction have now started on site for the first unit at Olney Park. Having recently delivered the new Sainsbury’s store alongside Parkway, we’re looking forward to strengthening our relationship with the project team whilst delivering a new and exciting development in the local area. Our specialist in-house teams have considerable experience in the design and delivery of similar mixed-use schemes, so we are all excited that work has been able to start site on this latest development.”

£4.6M CONSTRUCTION PROJECT BEGINS ON HISTORIC NEWCASTLE SCHOOL SITE A transformative construction project has begun at Dame Allan’s Senior School to create new state-of-the-art facilities in Newcastle.

The school recently appointed Gatesheadbased contractor Tolent to carry out the work, which forms part of an £8m development by Dame Allan’s and will provide a much-needed increase in space, as well as new high quality arts and science areas.

The site, in Fenham, is currently undergoing the demolition of some of the existing buildings to make way for the new two-storey classroom block and the contractor will also be refurbishing various buildings within the school campus.

The £4.6m contract will take just over a year to complete, with Tolent and the

school working together throughout the programme to develop a number of opportunities for pupils to engage in the project, including site visits and tradespecific workshops with the supply chain.

Principal of Dame Allan’s Schools, Will Scott, said: “This is a significant and exciting development for Dame Allan’s which will provide much-needed space for our pupils as well as ensuring they’re learning in the very best environment. The development will allow us to create a new sixth form area within art, design and technology, an arts exhibition space, spacious new classrooms and science labs and create more room for a new wellbeing centre for our dedicated pastoral team.”

David Thompson, regional director for Tolent, said: “We were delighted to have been awarded this contract, adding to our

16 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

extensive experience within the education sector.

“The client has a fantastic vision for this project, and we know the huge benefits the new facilities are going to make to present and future students. It’s great to get started and we look forward to delivering an outstanding project next year.”

Demolition works will continue throughout July and August and temporary teaching accommodation will be erected on site ready for the start of the next academic year in September.

PROVIDING

CIVIL ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION & PLANT HIRE SERVICES

• Operating across Kent, Sussex, Surrey and across the River Thames into London • Supplying all aspects of civil engineering for projects between £250,000 and £8m • Operating a £4.5m portfolio of plant and machinery • Operated and self-drive hires, which also extends to external hire clients.

www.gse-group.com info@gse-group.com

 Speak to us about how we can help with your project…

CALL TODAY ON 01233 501 301

MANAGING YOUR REQUIREMENTS

FROM START TO FINISH Thanks to our experienced management team and the skills of our 300 employees, GSE Group is the perfect partner for businesses needing civil engineering and construction works undertaken, backed up by plant and machinery to help make it all happen, which also extends to external hire clients.

Kent Construction Expo

BRINGING THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR BACK TOGETHER THIS OCTOBER Now that restrictions are gradually being lifted, we can be confident that business events will return in the Autumn and look forward to welcoming you back to the Kent Event Centre on 7th October for the South East’s leading construction event.

Kent Construction EXPO will bring together 2,000+ construction professionals, contractors, developers and specialist suppliers for one invaluable day of networking in a face-to-face environment once again since the COVID-19 outbreak.

Brought to you by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Kent County Council and Medway Council, this major annual gathering offers a fantastic line-up of speakers, alongside the South East’s largest exhibition of construction suppliers: providing a unique opportunity for you to get the inside track on major

A key feature at the event is the exclusive opportunity to put your business in front of leading contractors, suppliers and government departments, with over 600 FREE meet-the-buyer appointments available. infrastructure projects and the latest industry developments, while making valuable new contacts and building your business.

We already have a great programme line-up confirmed, with inspirational keynotes and practical workshops that will provide you with fresh insights into current construction industry challenges and opportunities on the horizon as well as emerging technologies, practices and innovations - helping you to keep up to date and thrive in the years ahead.

Back by popular demand, our roundtable stream provides a focussed platform for discussion where you will have the

opportunity to share your challenges and opportunities, hear your peer’s points of view and learn from their experiences, ask questions and voice an opinion.

A few of the hot topics and sector trends that will feature on the programme this year are:

• • • • • • • • •

Bouncing Back from Covid-19 Construction Futures BIM and Digitisation Major Infrastructure Developments in Kent and the South East Health & Safety Regulations R&D Tax Credits Sustainable Innovation Mental Health Awareness Construction Pathways

A key feature at the event is the exclusive opportunity to put your business in front of leading contractors, suppliers and government departments, with over 600 FREE meet-the-buyer appointments available.

You can also benefit from:

• • • • •

Over 150 market-leading exhibitors Invaluable networking opportunities to build and maintain business relationships Live Demo Areas showcasing the most dynamic and innovative products in the industry Big Networking Breakfast with a focus on collaboration in the construction sector Post-Event Gala Dinner with after-dinner comedian Angela Barnes, the perfect way to unwind, network and celebrate excellence within the industry

For more information and to register for FREE visit: www.kentconstructionexpo.com Exhibiting and Sponsorship Opportunities For the latest up-to-date floorplan and more details on pricing and sponsorship opportunities available please contact: Emily Taylor - 01892 820939 emily@revolution-events.com

18 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

7th October 2021

Kent Event Centre, Detling

Bringing the construction industry back together in a face-to-face environment this October

Produced by

Kent Construction Expo delivers a multi-track conference programme, over 150 market-leading exhibitors, and a unique opportunity for the construction sector to come together for an invaluable day of networking and innovation. The packed programme also includes over 600 free Meet the Buyer appointments, a Big Networking Breakfast and Gala Dinner.

2021 Speakers: Ben Cheeseman

Fergus Harradence

Dr Paul Toyne

Lee May

Pip Lawrence

Sarah Collins

Ricky Hemmings

Julie Putman

Commercial Director, Harwood Building Control

Deputy Director, Infrastructure & Construction, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy

Partner, Brachers LLP

Sustainability Practice Leader, Grimshaw & London Sustainable Development Commissioner

Technical Director, RIFT R&D Tax Credits

Wellbeing Director, Wellbeing People Ltd

Oliver Heath Founder & Director of Oliver Heath Design

Managing Director, Ardula Group Limited

Opening Keynote

Regional Manager - South, CIOB

Valuing & Implementing Health and Wellbeing in the Built Environment

FREE Registration

FREE Meet the Buyer Appointments

FREE Tea & Coffee

FREE Parking

Plus: FREE exhibition featuring hundreds of essential suppliers Event Partner

Event Partner

Media Partner

Video Partner

Gold Sponsor

Gala Dinner Sponsor

Reception Sponsor

Managed by

For more information on exhibiting or visiting please visit

www.KentConstructionExpo.com

Events & Awards News SOBEN NAMED CONSULTANCY OF THE YEAR AT PRESTIGIOUS INDUSTRY AWARDS Quantity surveying and commercial management consultancy, Soben, has been named Consultancy of the Year at the National Building and Construction Awards for the second year running.

SAVISTA DEVELOPMENTS WINS TWO NATIONAL BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION AWARDS Care home construction company, Savista Developments are celebrating after scooping two National Building and Construction Awards.

Savista, which started operating in 2019, scooped Specialist Contractor of the Year and Project of the Year up to 10 million, for their first build, Henley Manor Care Home.

The awards, held last Wednesday, aim to support and raise the profile of industrious, hardworking and enterprising building and construction businesses.

Henley Manor, which is operated by Savista’s sister company, Hallmark Care Homes opened in January 2020 and is a beautiful, purpose built, 80-bedroom care home in Henley-on-Thames.

The residential, nursing and dementia home boasts a cinema with a starlight

ceiling, corridors with circadian lighting, intuitive dementia design, and a garden with interactive elements throughout.

It was constructed using traditional methods of brick and block under a tiled roof, there was a 4,500 sq. ft basement installed to support the back of house elements, with three floors above, all on a site of just over an acre.

CEO of Savista Developments, Kevin Shaw said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received these awards. It demonstrates our on-going commitment to creating outstanding environments for residents and it is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team. The future is bright for Savista, as Henley Manor was the first of our now six projects for Hallmark Care Homes and Santhem Residences and we are determined to innovate and improve with each new build.”

Soben EMEA Managing Director, Andrew Gallacher, picked up the award at a prestigious ceremony in London’s Wembley Stadium attended by professionals from across the construction industry.

The National Building Awards comprise 17 categories and provide successful businesses in the world of building the opportunity to highlight their work and achievements and be judged by a panel of national experts.

Commenting on the award win, Andrew Gallacher, said; “It is a fantastic endorsement of Soben’s commitment to excellence and our ambitious growth plans that we have been awarded this prestigious award for the second year running. I am hugely proud of each and every member of our team. Their hard work and dedication to our culture and values are the reason that we are able to deliver on our ambitious plans year on year.”

“It is fantastic to see Soben take home the prestigious Consultancy of the Year Award for the second year in a row” commented NBC Awards Director Damian Cummins. “Once again, Soben demonstrated that it is a true example of a high quality, client focused, and forward-thinking consultancy. To once again be recognised as the best at what they do in the UK is a marker of success for the Soben team.”

CHARLOTTE ROBINSON WINS INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD AT AMAZON EVERYWOMAN IN TRANSPORT & LOGISTICS AWARDS Charlotte Robinson, a Rail Planner at Dyer & Butler, a part of M Group Services, has been named winner of the Infrastructure

‘Above and Beyond’ Award at the 2021 Amazon Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards.

Charlotte was recognised for her instrumental contribution to the creation of a ‘site competency and skills matrix’ that has delivered significant benefits in safety, site supervision, communication and time and cost efficiencies.

Charlotte’s ‘above and beyond’ approach to her role as a Dyer & Butler STEM ambassador was also recognised.

Charlotte’s STEM activities include mentoring members of a ‘Girls in Engineering Club’ at her former secondary school and establishing a work experience programme that creates tailored plans for students.

Richard Walker, Managing Director, Dyer & Butler, commented: “I would like to

20 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

congratulate Charlotte for this impressive and thoroughly deserved industry recognition.

“Creating an inclusive working environment is vital as businesses look to attract and retain the best talent and these awards provide a wonderful platform to showcase progression, accomplishments and increasing avenues of opportunity within a traditionally maledominated industry.”

Charlotte commented: “I am extremely proud to be named as a winner at the 2021 Amazon Everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards in the Infrastructure Above & Beyond category. I was amongst amazing finalists and I feel honoured to be recognised alongside such diverse female talent who lead the way and inspire within the Transport & Logistics sector - an industry too often seen as male-dominated. Also thank you to Dyer & Butler for the nomination and recognition of going ‘above and beyond’ for the business.”

WEST FRASER PRODUCT APPLICATION: ROOFING (OSB) Getting buildings wind and watertight is a priority on any construction site so choosing a quick, easy to install, reliable and versatile roofing system is vital. High quality roof decking or pitched roof sarking is an essential component and Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is now the preferred option for many. Unsurprisingly, given the product’s outstanding attributes, West Fraser’s SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 or SterlingOSB Zero T&G is frequently the first choice.

Ideal for structural use in load bearing dry or humid conditions, SterlingOSB Zero OSB3 offers great value and durability. Stronger than most softwood ply, thanks to its makeup of multiple layers of real wood strands pressed together, it is designed to withstand the toughest of conditions. Working with the boards is trouble free as they are uniform in quality with no knots, voids or delamination issues. Helping to cut waste, a range of panel sizes and thicknesses is available to suit all needs.

Samples of SterlingOSB Zero, and West Fraser’s other construction panels, can be ordered on the website Uk.westfraser.com. Head to the housebuilder page on the website to download a selection of tools including a fully-interactive guide to all West Fraser products and a checklist to make sure you have everything you need for your build.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com

CM0821002- West Fraser- QP.indd 1

Waterless Wheel Cleaning System

30/07/2021 13:06:04

Wash is a Dirty Word!

GEZE WINS NHS CONTRACT GEZE UK has been successful in securing a five year contract in conjunction with NHS UK Property Services.

The collaboration between NHS UK Property Services and GEZE UK is believed to be one of the largest contracts of its kind. Providing a service to more than 1,000 sites and 5,000 assets, GEZE UK is the industry choice to deliver a first class service to the NHS. The majority of sites provide regional healthcare and fall into one of the following categories: • Health centres and GP surgeries • Hospitals and hospital-related properties • Offices GEZE Service has recently launched a recruitment drive to provide the necessary support for a contract of this magnitude and is recruiting for Key Account Managers, Account Administrators and Service Technicians for automatic and industrial doors.

The DriveOn V-Tech Dry Wheel Cleaning System from EcoGreen Plant Hire Ltd • No water to provide, waste or dispose of • No water course contamination, or freezing or icing • No power required and no emissions • No extra kit to hire – no pumps, generators, bowsers, lances etc • No supervision required, and no breakdowns • Reduces road sweeper hire, because it doesn’t make more mud!

• Up to 60% less surface area than other dry types

www.ecogreenplanthire.co.uk 0800 130 3437

|

info@ecogreenplanthire.co.uk

Said service director Adam Presdee, “GEZE Service is delighted to be given the opportunity to work on such a prestigious project, we are confident that this contract will provide job security and opportunity for years to come.

An exciting relationship ahead, GEZE is looking forward to working with the NHS in maintaining and improving the publics’ experiences and prolonging the life cycles of its assets” The total NHS Property Services portfolio consists of more than 3,000 sites – worth over 3 billion pounds.

To find out more about GEZE Service email info.uk@geze.com or to find out about GEZE UK’s comprehensive range of automatic and manual door closers visit www.geze.co.uk 30/06/2021 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 2113:35:47

CM0721006- GEZE UK Ltd- QP.indd 1

Latest News

WOLVERHAMPTON JOINS LANDMARK EUROPEAN ENVIRONMENTAL MOVEMENT TO ACCELERATE SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIES Wolverhampton has made history by becoming the first English city to sign the European Circular Cities Declaration – a major environmental agreement designed to accelerate the adoption of circular economies across the continent.

In signing the declaration, which was developed by a broad partnership of European stakeholders, led by ICLEI Europe*, Wolverhampton joins a highprofile network of major European cities, including Helsinki, Oslo, Prague and Florence, committed to creating resource-efficient, low-carbon and socially responsible societies.

The certification of Wolverhampton as a Europe-leading centre of green growth is spearheaded by the city’s expertise in sustainable construction. Part of the University of Wolverhampton, its Springfield Campus will be Europe’s largest specialist academic centre for Architecture and Built Environment, offering world-class teaching, research and training in Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and revolutionary remediation techniques to unlock brownfield development.

The UK Green Building Council reports that 40% of all UK carbon emissions originate from the built environment. Tackling how the construction industry manages waste is therefore critical to meeting the UK government’s 78% carbon reduction targets

MCG CONSTRUCTION EXPANDS POPULAR FAST TRACK PROGRAMME TO LEEDS

by 2035, with the urgency of the growing construction epidemic even more pressing as the UK prepares to host the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) later this year.

Firmly establishing the city’s MMC expertise is the arrival of a new £17.5m National Brownfield Institute (NBI), created to help the construction industry unlock disused land for greener, safer and cheaper building projects. Homes built using MMC can be built on-site up to four times faster and have up to 80% fewer defects, substantially eradicating waste and carbon emission levels from the construction process.

Cllr Ian Brookfield, Leader of City of Wolverhampton Council and Portfolio Holder for Economy and Innovation at the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) – the region’s governing authority – said: “Wolverhampton is well-known for its industrial heritage, and while manufacturing remains the fabric of our economy, there is still the perception that our expertise is centred on heavy and traditional processes – but this is simply not the case, as our signature to the Declaration confirms.

“Our city is at the helm of the sustainable revolution in construction, with the National Brownfield institute (NBI) and best-inclass research from the University of Wolverhampton putting us on the map as a unique centre of excellence for environmental development and regeneration. These

strengths form a critical lever for enhancing our economy post-pandemic, opening up opportunities to unlock new investments, create jobs and boost skills training for local people in a sector that is becoming increasingly vital to achieving a Green Industrial Revolution.

We are proud that Wolverhampton is a city where building back better isn’t just a promise, but a strategy in action.”

The city is also driving forward the UK Government’s agenda to expedite the delivery of homes built using MMC, as the formal base for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s new MMC Taskforce.

This follows the Department’s earlier decision in February 2021 to house a second ministerial headquarters in Wolverhampton, in acknowledgement of the Black Country’s rising influence in sustainable housebuilding. The city will be the first regional location outside of London to have a regular ministerial presence, creating hundreds of employment opportunities for local people – for which recruitment is currently underway.

To date, thousands of new homes and jobs have been unlocked and accelerated on acres of brownfield sites throughout the region since 2017 when the WMCA was first established. Following the landmark housing deal of 2018, the WMCA has run some of the largest housing and

Due to the incredible success of MCG Construction’s pilot Fast Track programme in London, the construction recruitment company is rolling out further schemes in the north.

incredible what they’ve achieved in such a short period of time. The majority of the intake were brand new to the recruitment world, so this really is an opportunity wide open to those who want to take their first steps into this sector.

In August the intensive in-house training programme is arriving in Leeds, formulated

by MCG Construction’s MD Mark Bull, it is designed to train new starters up to Recruitment Resourcer, Account Manager or Consultant roles in just 8 weeks.

“This scheme consolidates 6 months of skills and knowledge acquisition into an intensive 8 week block, thanks to our incredible Trainer Maria Stevens. Maria is working day-to-day with the team setting daily and weekly targets, as well as running the training aspect.

The Fast Track scheme is ideal for those just entering the job market or young people in general, who are known to have borne the brunt of job losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic. It is opening up opportunities to less experienced and young people in a Covid-impacted working world.

It’s no secret that young people have been the most affected by Covid redundancies and through this programme MCG Construction aim to quickly set them up on the path to a great career in recruitment.

“Between our 5 Fast Track Team members we’ve already seen them bring in around 190 vacancies and they’re still 2 weeks short of completing the scheme. I’m really pleased to see the great strides the team are taking and very much looking forward to replicating the success of this programme in the north.”

Mark Bull, said: “We’ve had tremendous success with our first Fast Track intake, it’s

22 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

Applications are now open for the Leeds intake from any age group and any level of experience – if you can sell yourself, you will get MCG Construction’s attention. Interviews for the Leeds-based intake begin on Monday 2 August, with the programme scheduled to kick off on 6 September.

Latest News taking advantage of new digital technologies, and training local people with the skills we’ll need to seize these opportunities.

And it means helping people access new job opportunities through improved public transport connectivity, helping increase the size of our economy, whilst reducing carbon emissions and our impact on air quality.”

Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “As we recover from the impact of the pandemic on our economy, it’s important we do so in a way that helps people play their part in tackling climate change and delivers real benefits to their lives.

“As part of our region’s plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2041, the West Midlands Combined Authority is developing a ‘circular economy’ routemap, setting out precisely how we can use energy and resources more efficiently and more effectively to help grow our economy. Wolverhampton City Council’s commitment to this objective, together with that of all the local authorities in the region, demonstrates clearly how much of a team effort meeting our climate objectives and green job aspirations will be. I’m really looking forward to working with the City council to take advantage of the opportunities joining this network will provide not just Wolverhampton, but our whole region.”

“We are already taking bold strides here in the West Midlands to protect our environment and provide the good ‘green jobs’ of the future.

Just as we were the home of the industrial revolution in the past, this commitment

by Wolverhampton City Council helps demonstrate we’re now the home of the ‘green’ industrial revolution of the future.

Construction is just one sector where the region has particular research and business strengths in the circular economy.

Manufacturing and food production have also been selected as priority areas under a new West Midlands Circular Economy Routemap, due for publication later this year.

“That means helping people with their energy bills by ‘retrofitting’ homes to make them more energy efficient and helping businesses and families use energy more efficiently.

Developed by the WMCA’s dedicated Circular Economy Taskforce, the Routemap will demonstrate opportunities for innovation, investment and growth across the West Midlands economy.

regeneration delivery programmes of any Combined Authority with over half a billion pounds of devolved housing and land funds being used to support the regeneration of previously developed sites across the whole region.

“It means using modern methods of construction which are friendlier on the environment, while providing new highly skilled, well paid job opportunities. It means

A number of firms in the region are already leading the way in circular principles.

Helping to remove single-use plastics

and non-recyclable waste from many critical industries is Birmingham-based plastic technology manufacturer Aquapak Polymers, whose innovative water-soluble polymer, Hydropol, is being made into a wide range of products – from laundry and garment bags, to disposable gloves and food refuse sacks. Hydropol is also being piloted for the construction industry by customers in Queensland, Australia, to create dissolvable cement bags that allows cement to be put directly into concrete mixers without the need to be manually emptied Also based in the city is West Midlandsfounded clean technology startup Aceleron, which is rethinking battery production by designing waste out of the manufacturing process, creating world-first batteries from recycled materials that can be repaired, reused and upgraded, avoiding total replacement.

Alongside moves to be more circular, the region is championing a series of other carbon cutting solutions, notably in transport and energy systems.

Birmingham became the UK’s second city to establish a Clean Air Zone in June 2021 in a bid to improve its air quality. Meanwhile, Coventry is at the forefront of the nation’s large-scale battery production ambitions, with a planning application to establish a 100% green-powered Gigafactory at Coventry Airport in the pipeline, confirming the West Midlands’ competitive appeal to supercharge electric vehicle technologies.

Low-carbon is officially the region’s fastestgrowing sector and employs 100,000 people locally, figures collated by the West Midlands Growth Company show.

GROUND-BREAKING JOINT VENTURE WILL ACCELERATE UK’S JOURNEY TO NET ZERO Gas distribution company SGN and UK renewable energy solutions provider Vital Energi are combining to form a unique and pioneering private sector initiative to develop, own and operate low and zerocarbon heat networks.

highlighted as a particular challenge where heat networks can offer a solution. The Climate Change Committee’s Sixth Carbon Budget suggests the UK should target 20% of UK heat demand through low-carbon heat networks by 2050.

The 50:50 joint venture will create an Energy Services Company (ESCO), representing the UK’s leaders in utility infrastructure and heat networks to provide affordable and low-carbon infrastructure to SGN’s existing land portfolio. This includes delivery of heat to developments planned by SGN’s property arm, SGN Place, and the local vicinities where there is a demand for low-carbon heat.

Together, SGN and Vital have ambitious plans to establish solutions to this challenge across strategically located sites. These locations are a combination of redundant sites owned by SGN and others which will be developed over time through Vital’s existing market presence.

It is estimated that the heat network market requires approximately £30 billion of investment by 2050 to meet the UK Government’s net zero targets, and the decarbonisation of heat has been

solutions alongside its core gas distribution business and expand into the growing district heating market, recognising the future of heat is likely to include a mix of technological solutions and energy sources.

Vital Energi is seeking to expand into asset ownership opportunities to complement its core design, build and operations businesses.

The objective is to supply new and existing residential, industrial and commercial facilities and development activity is already underway for two projects in Scotland and the South East, with another 20 in the pipeline.

SGN is looking to develop alternative heat

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 23

JOIN US IN ELIMINATING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BOTTLES

CHOOSE GROHE BLUE HOME: MADE FOR YOUR LOCAL WATER

+ Sustainable: no more single-use plastic bottles + Filtered water straight from your kitchen tap + Great taste: still, medium or sparkling + Convenient and safe

Find out more about our kitchen filter taps on blue.grohe.co.uk

Company News SELECT SAYS RECOMMENDATIONS IN NEW RETENTIONS REPORT CAN BE A ‘GAME-CHANGER’ FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY Scotland’s largest construction trade association, SELECT, has hailed a new report on cash retentions as “a potential game-changer” – and says its recommendations could lead to greater reinvestment in the industry.

The campaigning trade body says the indepth review by the short life working group (SLWG) could bring an end to the practice of withheld retention payments and deliver “an essential financial lifeline” for contractors.

Among its many practical proposals submitted to the Scottish Government, the new report recommends a retention deposit scheme, the introduction of best practice policy and automatic release of retentions as early as possible.

It also says that the government should work with industry to ensure retention best practice is reflected in standard construction contracts, including dispute resolution and conflict avoidance procedures.

SELECT President Donald W Orr said: “The issue of retentions is one that has blighted the industry for many years, and this report makes it clear that there is a widely-held belief that change is long overdue.

Retention monies could be reinvested by businesses in employing more apprentices, upskilling operatives or investing in new technology – bringing benefits to the wider industry and helping the whole construction sector build a stronger and more sustainable future.

“We welcome its recommendations and, if implemented, believe they could provide an essential financial lifeline that could save many businesses thousands of pounds every year.

“Retention monies could be reinvested by businesses in employing more apprentices, upskilling operatives or investing in new technology – bringing benefits to the wider industry and helping the whole construction sector build a stronger and more sustainable future.

We therefore hope that the powers-that-be heed the advice in this report and have the courage to adopt what could be a potential game-changer for contractors.”

Mr Orr added: “While we would obviously like to see retentions abolished completely, these recommendations are certainly a step in the right direction and we hope the Scottish Government brings them to fruition.

“In particular, we would like to see the introduction of a statutory custodial retention deposit scheme, along with the automatic release of retentions as early as possible, unless a clear issue has been identified.

We would also welcome the requirement for contracting authorities to publish their retentions policy and, if they deviate from it, to be made to explain why.”

The SLWG was established in January 2021 by the Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills to consider and make recommendations on the practice of cash retentions under construction contracts.

Its findings have also been warmly welcomed by fellow Scottish trade body the Scotland and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) and engineering services alliance Actuate UK, of which SELECT and SNIPEF are both key members.

SELECT Managing Director Alan Wilson said: “We are grateful to the group’s work and it is heartening to see progress being made via an ongoing spirit of collaboration. Only by continuing to listen, talk and work together will we find a solution that works for us all. From member feedback, we know that retention delays and non-payment continue to cause problems for businesses up and down Scotland, with the disruption to all-important cash-flow causing both financial worries and serious mental health issues.

“SELECT has devoted much time and effort to tackling retentions and urging our members to have their say to make the voice of the electrical industry heard.

“We will continue to press hard for these recommendations to come to fruition, both through our own efforts and with our industry colleagues, to develop meaningful solutions that benefit the whole construction sector.”

MBC INVITING YOU TO HAVE YOUR SAY ON PROPOSED TOWN CENTRE DEVELOPMENT Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is inviting everyone to have their say on the proposed new town centre development.

A public consultation around the redevelopment of Maidstone’s King Street Car Park will take place at the Town Hall, Maidstone on Thursday 12 August at 6-8pm when the Council is asking residents and stakeholders to let them know their thoughts on the proposed project, before submitting a planning application.

MBC is leading on a low-carbon, high energy-efficient housing development in the town centre which is in with the current Council Local Plan. The Council is working with ZED PODS and Maidstone Property Holdings, investigating the

redevelopment of the King Street Car Park for residential use. The proposal for the site would consist of 16 residential lowcarbon, energy-efficient homes which will be built over the current car park.

Chair of MBC Communities, Housing and Environment Committee, Cllr Daniel Rose said: “We are very keen to hear from as many people as possible about this proposed development which could bring a very exciting new collection of homes to the town centre.

“The innovative way the homes would be constructed will limit disruption to one of the busiest car parks in Maidstone and their design will retain the parking spaces beneath providing an excellent solution to land, revenue, sustainability and permanent housing issues.

26 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

“I would encourage everyone who is interested to come along to the public consultation and share their thoughts about the development.”

The proposed new homes will consist of a mix of 1 and 2 bed apartments (of which 6 will be offered as social rent).

More details about the proposed development can be found on the website: https://maidstone.gov.uk/home/primaryservices/business-and-investment/ primary-areas/regeneration/tier-3primary-areas/housing-projects If you would like to see more information on the proposal please visit the MBC/ZED Pods website page: https://www.zedpods.com/maidstone

Company News CORK AIRPORT RUNWAY RECONSTRUCTION AWARDED TO COLAS LTD Cork Airport has awarded the main construction contract for the rebuilding of the airport’s main runway to Colas Limited, part of the International Colas Group, a leader in the field in the design, maintenance and construction of transport infrastructure. Colas has extensive airport construction experience with similar runway reconstruction projects completed across the world.

Along with the UK based Colas Ltd business, Colas has 6 offices in Ireland (4 ROI, 2 NI) with their Irish head office located in Maynooth, Co. Kildare. Minister of State Naughton visited the airport today to meet with MD Niall MacCarthy and Colas Ireland CEO Gearoid Lohan and confirmed the approval of €10m in Government funding towards this critically important project.

Around 250 construction and supply jobs will be created onsite during the project, including a number of local specialist sub-contractor roles. Mobilisation and preparatory site works will begin at night immediately, without impacting the Summer flight schedule at the airport. The main construction works will follow on a 24/7 basis over a 10-week period from September 13. Construction of the new runway will be completed by November 22 in advance of the busy Christmas travel period.

Over €40 million is being invested in Cork Airport between 2020-2022 to upgrade the critical infrastructure at the Airport of which the main runway reconstruction, a new Electrical Sub-Station and a new Hold Baggage Security screening system, constitute the major parts. Colas was awarded the contract following an extensive EU tender process. The project to reconstruct the main runway (16/34) is being supported by Government funding of €10 million from the Department of Transport, with the balance of the funding coming from Cork Airport’s parent company, daa plc, to complete the project.

The reconstruction of Cork Airport’s main runway will be the fastest large-scale construction project undertaken in the State in recent years - 12 months from funding approval to the completion of the main works – encompassing EU tendering, design, regulatory approvals and construction.

Minister Hildegarde Naughton, Minister of State at the Department of Transport said: ‘‘This will be the single-biggest investment by any Government at Cork Airport and, when complete, it will serve as a key strategic asset for Cork and the entire region over the next 20 years.”.

While acknowledging that the closure of the airport during construction may bring challenges for some, Minister Naughton added: ‘By closing the airport, this very significant project can be delivered in a quicker time, in a safer environment and with less long-term impacts on airlinesand passengers. Following the 10-week closure period, the airport will be in a position to reopen in good time for Christmas and will enable the airport to operate in an unrestricted way in 2022.’

In conclusion, the Minister advised ‘Government policy on airports, like Cork, is to optimise conditions for regional development and connectivity – both for social and economic benefits. Government recognises that as employers, airports contribute to the local economy and employment is also supported through the various ancillary services that are provided to the airports.

The funding, which has been made available to Cork Airport in 2021, is a clear indication of the importance that Government attaches to this airport and its capacity to weather the current crisis and to plan for recovery and growth into the future.

Niall MacCarthy, Managing Director at Cork Airport said:“We are delighted to award this significant runway reconstruction contract to Colas. This project forms part of a

total investment and upgrade programme of €40 million between 2020 and 2022 so that the infrastructure at Cork Airport is positioned for recovery post COVID-19. We are very grateful to the Irish Government for the significant financial support to get this project underway and completed.

“The rebuilding of the main runway is the largest construction project to be undertaken at Cork Airport since the building of the new terminal 15 years ago. The construction programme includes a reconstruction of the main runway and the replacement of the airfield electrical systems, ducts and pits.

These are all between 20 and 30 years old and the resulting electrical upgrade will reduce our runway electrical carbon footprint by 70%. These works are necessary to ensure that the main runway at Cork Airport continues to meet and exceed strict national and international regulations governing the operation and specification of runways at major airports and position us well for the future. With our physical infrastructure rebuilt, we are fully committed to rebuilding our business and connectivity and making Cork Airport once again the second largest airport in the State and connecting the South of Ireland with the world.”

Carl Fergusson CEO Colas Limited said: “We are delighted to be awarded the contract for the reconstruction of such a prestigious and high profile piece of Ireland’s national infrastructure. Colas has been operating successfully in Ireland for many years and has significant experience of runway construction globally. We look forward to working closely with the team at Cork Airport to deliver this project. The project will support in excess of 250 local construction and supply chain jobs throughout Munster during its delivery.

“The scale of the project, from start to finish cannot be underestimated involving detailed planning and logistics - 3,000 truckloads of asphalt, 500 maintenance hole pits to be built, 140 kilometres of electrical cable and 60 kilometres of cable duct and drains to be laid. This is a major project, which has a time sensitive duration, and is essential to the economy of the South of Ireland. We are fully committed to its successful delivery from immediate mobilisation through to the key 10 week main construction phase later this year.”

Planning and design work for the reconstruction of the main runway started last year. Last Autumn, in light of the financial difficulties caused by COVID-19 and the strategic importance of the Cork Airport runway project to the entire Southern region, funding was sought from Government to proceed with the project.

Cork Airport followed a comprehensive EU procurement process leading to the award of the contract commencing last November.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 27

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR We design and manufacture world class respiratory protection

Switchboard +44 330 808 8935 Email ukhelpdesk@srsafety.com

Construction dust

Many building tradesman may be exposed to construction dust in a construction environment. Anyone who inhales construction dust should be aware of the health risks this may cause.

Regular inhalation, of even small quantities of construction dust, can damage the lungs and respiratory airways over the course of time. Some diseases can develop quite quickly, but in many cases, it can take 10 to 30 years before symptoms become apparent.

Unfortunately, by the time the problem is noticed, irreparable damage is often done, and it can be difficult or impossible to treat.

What is construction dust?

Construction dust is a broad term, there are many different types of dust one may be exposed to in a construction environment. The largest particles, which are visible, are captured by the body’s natural defences, and remain, in most cases in the nose, mouth and throat. The small particles, which are invisible to the human eye, are the most dangerous, and can cause scarring of the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.

Examples of construction dust:

Silica dust arises during work with materials containing silica, such as concrete, mortar and sandstone.

Wood dust arises during work with softwood, hardwood and woodbased materials such as MDF and plywood.

Other types of dust arise during work with plaster, glass wool, mineral wool, marble, etc.

Health risks:

Lung damage such as silicosis, lung cancer, asthma or chronic

obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and includes diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Construction dust can also cause allergies.

Respiratory protection

When all other measures have been taken to reduce dangerous exposure levels, respiratory protection equipment is the last, but an important, means of preventing hazardous air contamination entering the body, via the airways.

The choice of respiratory protection depends, amongst other factors, on the type of dust present, its WEL (Workplace Exposure Limit), and the nature of the work, i.e. the degree of physical exertion and the length of exposure.

Facial hair, such as beards, moustaches and sideburns, reduce the level of protection offered by tight-fitting respirators, and create a need for Powered Air Respiratory Protection to ensure adequate levels of contaminant reduction.

Sundström recommends

Sundström has a team of experienced professionals who can aid with the selection of the correct RPE for your needs. Contact us on ukhelpdesk@ srsafety.com

UK Magazine - August 2021 xx 2021 28 Construction UK Magazine - August Construction

NEW REPORT CALLS FOR CHANGES TO THE UK’S HOUSING SECTOR IN A BID TO MEET NEW HOMES TARGETS A new report has called on the government and housebuilders to come together and pave the way to create more UK homes using modular construction.

The Deploying Modular Housing in the UK report is the work of affordable homesled placemaker Places for People and the University of Cambridge’s Centre for Housing and Planning Research. Together, they have outlined a joint vision for viably accelerating the use of modular construction in the UK market.

Among the recommendations within the report are calls for government support – both financially through grants and subsidies for developers using modular technologies, and through planning policy incentives. It also calls for industry standards and warranties akin to traditional builds, something the authors say will ‘provide certainty and confidence’ not only for housebuilders, but for end users and for traditional lenders who are sometimes cautious of loaning on modular homes.

The answer, the report says, lies in systematic data capture and evidence collection by housebuilders to create a strong evidence base of the benefits of offsite housing construction and MMC – something which would help to combat customers’ mistrust, overcome risk aversion, and boost confidence among lenders.

Scott Black, Group Executive Director – Development at Places for People, explained:

“There are so many potential benefits to creating homes using modular technologies, but there are a host of current barriers and constraints that need addressing. Issues such as regulatory and approval barriers, skills shortages in the factories and a lack of cross-sector support are hindering the growth of modular construction – slowing down the take up. As an industry, we have the vision and the capabilities, but we need to pull together to address the barriers outlined in this report, and pave the way for a sustainable, modular future, one underpinned by an adequately skilled workforce who can drive the technology forward – helping establish it as a credible building practice for future consumers.”

The report also addresses the skills shortage in the UK sector, with traditional and modular building skills varying greatly. Gemma Burgess, Director of the Cambridge Centre for Housing and Planning Research at The University of Cambridge, co-authored the piece and added: “Another important factor is the need for investment in the development of a different set of skills than those used on traditional sites.

“This can be achieved by equipping the industry’s labour force with the necessary tools – including digital literacy and the use of new software and knowledge in offsite manufacture. This will all go hand in hand with retraining schemes and education programmes in collaboration with national and local government, education providers, industry bodies and the housebuilding industry.”

The 34-page report also proposes the idea of ‘innovation champions’ among housebuilders and developers – individuals and companies who actively use modular and offsite approaches and MMC, in order to boost their efforts and promote the benefits of innovation. Other recommendations include proposals for the standardisation of materials, and having a ‘kit of parts’ to be used across the industry by different manufacturers – something which Scott Black again says will come through collaboration: “The more we share, the more we will learn. There do however need to be initiatives to promote this within the housebuilding industry – the Building Better group (NHF 2020) for example. Such plans would provide structures for effective communication, synthesise learning, and help to build networks and collaboration opportunities.”

The Deploying Modular Housing in the UK report can be read here https:// placesforpeople.co.uk/news/publications; it is the latest in a line of research projects undertaken by Places for People.

The organisation recently collaborated with the same Cambridge team on a research project into later living, as well as releasing the Places Design Guide with global engineering company Arup. All of the reports can be viewed here https:// placesforpeople.co.uk/news/publications.

ACTIS SUPPORTS JEWSON’S FUNDRAISING MONSTER WALK Insulation specialist Actis joined dozens of Jewson staff from branches across the North of England this month as they walked 130 miles from Widnes to Hull - and raised £30,000 for charity.

It was one of a number of Jewson suppliers which provided activities and information along the route.

Actis regional sales director Jemma Harris and area sales managers Karolina Taylor and Louise South manned stands on three of the five days on which the event took place, inviting the Jewson team, their customers and passers by to try their hands at installing Hybris into a mock timber frame in exchange for an Actis branded T-shirt.

The event saw staff from 13 branches and seven business units take part, with the proceeds being shared between two charities.

Long-estabished Barnardo’s cares for vulnerable children, while Band of Builders helps members of the construction industry when times get tough, through projects, advice and support.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 29

People On The Move

RAIMONDI CRANES ANNOUNCES CHANGE IN SENIOR LEADERSHIP EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY Raimondi Cranes SpA, European manufacturer of topless tower and luffing jib cranes for more than 150 years, today announced a change in senior leadership effective immediately.

Eng. Domenico Ciano, Chief Executive Officer, has been approved to take a one year sabbatical with Eng. Diego Borgna having already assumed the role of Acting Chief Executive Officer with all the responsibilities and authority that the role entails.

Eng. Borgna, a crane industry veteran with more than two decades of handson experience in the global heavy lifting

machinery sector, initially joined Raimondi as Deputy Managing Director also spearheading operations.

As part of the handover process, and to facilitate a smooth and timely transition in senior leadership, Eng. Ciano and Eng. Borgna have been working closely over the past few months, alongside Commercial Director Cristian Badin.

“Of utmost importance to Raimondi is the valued relationship the company has with our official agent roster, in tandem with ensuring satisfaction for our clients from all over the world,” said Eng. Borgna discussing the importance of the Commercial

JOHN F HUNT APPOINTED AS PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR FOR HINES NEW EUROPEAN HEADQUARTERS ON DRURY LANE The heritage lead redevelopment of Grain House will provide up to 11,500m2 of offices and commercial space over 5 upper floors, with retail and restaurant use at basement and ground level.

The island site, which is bounded by Drury Lane, Dryden Street, Shelton Street and Arne Street, is situated within the heart of London’s Covent Garden just ‘a stone’s throw’ from the Royal Opera House.

John F Hunt will undertake significant elements of cut and carve demolition, complex temporary works and structural alterations, including strengthening the retained façades of the 4 heritage buildings.

In conjunction with the demolition, Hunt’s structures team will carry out specialist restricted head room piling, construction of the new basement, a jump form 6-storey core and the installation of the new steel frame and floors.

Managing Director, Glen Clarke, said “We are delighted to work on this highly complex and prestigious project on behalf of Hines. It involves many of the Group’s in-house resources and demonstrates the benefits of de-risking projects by combining complicated front-end packages.”

Department. “My work since March has overlapped a great deal with the Commercial team as we planned our expansion and next steps. This interdepartmental collaboration will serve the company well taken in context together with my appointment as Acting CEO,” he continued.

Raimondi’s Board of Directors reiterated their strong support of Eng. Ciano’s decision to embark on the one year sabbatical, lauding his commitment to his personal goals of health and wellness.

“I am now completely disengaged from the company’s day-to day operations, as well as high level decision-making effective immediately. I express my thanks to the Board of Directors for their understanding and support during this time. I extend my best wishes to Eng. Borgna for the coming 12 months, and I hope to see Raimondi continue to go from strength to strength under his tenure.”

DIRECTOR APPOINTMENTS AT BRICKFLOW Brickflow - the UK’s first comparison site for development finance - has appointed Tim Noble Lending Director and Chris Meyer, Key Account Director.

The appointments enable Brickflow to increase the number of lenders plugged into its platform and extend its support to professionals working within the property development sector.

Tim has 40 years’ banking experience, the last 30 of which have been spent providing residential development finance to UK housebuilders. During his career, Tim held senior positions with Paragon Bank, Bank Leumi, Kaupthing Singer & Friedlander and Close Property Finance.

Chris has 28 years’ experience in providing funding support services to practices, firms and brokers in the professions and insurance sector. During his career, Chris held senior sales roles with an Alternative Investment Market-listed provider of funding solutions, a French high-end fashion finance business and Premium Credit Limited.

Since its launch on 30 October, 29 lenders have joined Brickflow - the only digital platform to connect borrowers and lenders in seconds.

30 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

In addition to his brief to add new lenders and increase funding opportunities for developers, Tim says he’s wellplaced to help new borrowers using the platform: “My years as a development finance lender means I can advise developers on their loan requirements, help with online applications and manage applications so they secure the most suitable funding for their projects.”

Chris is equally keen to share his expertise with the wider market: “I’ll ensure professionals with clients who have difficulties accessing funding are signposted to this unique solution - where tech and expert knowledge come together to offer a top draw selection of lenders and support from industry experts.”

Tim describes Brickflow as a win, win scenario:

On one side are developers who need finance and can present their project proposals to nearly 30 lenders at the click of a button, and on the other, lenders who benefit from receiving loan applications from new clients whose proposals already meet their lending criteria.

People On The Move

BELLWAY LEADS WAY FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION WITH NEW APPOINTMENTS In a traditionally male-dominated industry, Bellway is leading the way for gender equality with the appointment of two women as assistant site managers, one still in training.

Gabriella Iandico is working at Henhurst Fields in her hometown of Burton upon Trent, Staffordshire, while Megan Walsh, who’s originally from Leicestershire, is based at Cuttle Brook in Chellaston, Derbyshire.

The pair, who are both aged 27, are employed by Bellway’s East Midlands division, which is based in Leicester.

Gabriella started with the company in March, while Megan joined in April.

They both originally left school to pursue an alternative career but both found their way into the building sector and have not looked back since.

Gabriella, who had originally wanted to be a primary school teacher, has worked in construction for the past eight years after hearing about the shortage of women in the industry.

She said: “I got my first job within the industry in 2013, where they soon saw my potential and offered me a trainee management position.

“I completed the management trainee training with this particular company for 18 months then was offered a trainee site manager role after gaining my Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Construction and the Built Environment. During my trainee site manager position I gained my level 6 in Construction Management and hold a Construction Skills Certificate Scheme (CSCS) black card.

“I was approached by Bellway who offered me a training position at Henhurst Fields, which was perfect as I’m from the area and you don’t usually come across a site job so close to home.”

I would say you have to be a strong-minded person to be in my position, but I don’t think women should steer away from the industry. There are a lot of good opportunities and once you have your foot in the door and gain the respect you deserve, everything becomes a lot easier.

She said: “I’m a very hands-on person and I didn’t want to be sat in an office all day, so I had a break from the design industry.

“My cousin was working for another developer at the time and told me about a planning and engineering role within the company, which is where I began my construction career.

“I was recently approached by a recruitment agency who informed me about the trainee assistant site manager role at Bellway, and I am really glad they did, and I decided to give it a go.

“My partner is a property developer, and my dad is a builder, so I think I was always meant to be in this industry. It’s nice to be able to share this with them – it feels familiar.”

Gabriella and Megan would encourage anyone considering a role within construction to give it a go.

Megan said: “I would definitely encourage any woman looking to work in construction to go for it – there are not enough women in the industry and we can bring a different perspective to the job.

“It does seem intimidating at the start, but it is a really good career to have. It’s very varied and every day is different.”

Gabriella said: “I would say you have to be a strong-minded person to be in my position, but I don’t think women should steer away from the industry. There are a lot of good opportunities and once you have your foot in

the door and gain the respect you deserve, everything becomes a lot easier. I think as a young person in general, male or female, you have to prove yourself.”

Gabriella and Megan have found their experiences working for Bellway really positive, where they have felt supported and welcomed.

Gabriella said: “I absolutely love feeling part of a team. I feel really supported by management and Bellway. I’m looking to extend my knowledge and Bellway has given me the opportunity to do that. My site manager, Paul, has been great, really supportive of all my decisions, answers all my questions and is very open and communicative.

“I’ve found the job absolutely amazing overall and I’ve received some really positive feedback from customers, and even won a hamper a few weeks ago being named, ‘customer first hero’!”

Gabriella also received great feedback on National House-Building Council surveys where she was named as having ‘impressed the most’ on site on multiple occasions.

Megan said: “Everyone has been really nice and welcoming. I feel really supported within Bellway and I’ve had a great experience so far.

Construction is definitely where I see myself staying and once I’ve got the experience behind me I hope to work my way up. Graphic design is now more of a hobby to me – construction is my new career path.”

Megan had a similar journey into the industry, as she studied graphic design at Loughborough University but then decided that career wasn’t for her.

I’m a very hands-on person and I didn’t want to be sat in an office all day, so I had a break from the design industry. My cousin was working for another developer at the time and told me about a planning and engineering role within the company, which is where I began my construction career.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 31

People On The Move further as a fitter before going on to run shifts as a supervisor and ultimately becoming Maintenance Manager.

Russell Roof Tiles is the largest independent manufacturer of concrete roof tiles in the UK pitched roofing market and currently employs 140 staff across its three sites (two in Burton upon Trent) and Lochmaben, Scotland.

During his time at the company, Otto has felt invested in by his employer and has also achieved additional qualifications, including an ILM in Leadership to support his career progression. Otto is supporting Burton and South Derbyshire College and helping them to promote their courses within engineering and manufacturing.

APPRENTICE TURNED MANAGER APPEALS TO NEXT GENERATION A former apprentice who has gone on to become Maintenance Manager for the company he trained with is appealing for young people to consider a career in engineering.

Otto Mathiesen began working at Russell Roof Tiles in Burton upon Trent as an apprentice 11 years ago. He started out running the machines as an operator and from there, honed his engineering skills

CITB WELCOMES FORMER APPRENTICE AS NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE A new Chief Executive will start at CITB on 1 September, a former apprentice who brings a strong track record in skills, training and organisational development.

Tim Balcon has led professional and membership bodies, the most notable being as Chief Executive at the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, where he transformed its vision and performance, leading to year-on-year growth. He has also been Chief Executive of the Energy and Utility Sector Skills Council (EU Skills), where he created the National Skills Academy for Power. In this role he led EU Skills to securing significant funding from Ofgem, the energy regulator, after demonstrating the economic risks arising from the skills crisis facing the industry.

Tim’s knowledge of education and skills was reflected in his previous appointment to the board of Ofqual at a time of major education reform, and prior to this he was also a member of the UK Vocational Qualifications Reform Board.

Tim started his CEO journey back in 1999 as CEO of The Gas and Water National Training Organisation, leading a fledgling organisation from £400k turnover to over £7m in three years. He started out from a mining town in South Yorkshire as an apprentice service engineer with British Gas in the early 1980s, where he spent his early career.

Peter Lauener, CITB Chair, said: “I’d like to welcome Tim to CITB, an outstanding candidate for the post of CEO. He brings considerable experience in skills and training and strong leadership qualities.

“This is a crucial time for construction skills across Britain, and the Board is looking forward to working with him to drive forward our strategy to meet the skills needs of employers.”

Mark Reynolds, CEO of Mace Group and co-lead of the Construction Leadership Council skills workstream, said: “I am looking forward to working closely with Tim as we address the huge skills challenges we face in construction.

“Tim’s journey from apprentice to Chief Executive is one that will resonate with the industry and will inspire others to follow in his footsteps.”

Tim Balcon said: “As a former apprentice I know how much having the right skills at a young age can transform your whole career and support your employer. That’s why I’m so passionate about skills and am thrilled to be joining the team at CITB to help many more people join the construction sector and to have long and fulfilling careers within it.”

Tim starts on 1 September and takes over from outgoing CITB Chief Executive Sarah Beale, who will relinquish her post at the end of September.

32 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

Russell Roof Tiles has recently recruited three new apprentices to join their team and Otto is passionate about encouraging young people into engineering to help tackle the skills shortage within the industry. The company produces thousands of tiles every week that are used on roofs across the UK by premier housebuilders and developers.

Otto commented: “There’s a massive skills shortage in engineering. I think it’s important for young people to realise that university isn’t the only option. An apprenticeship in a heavy industrial manufacturing environment is exciting! There’s plenty of things to learn, from welding and fabrication to electrics, fault finding and mechanical engineering – the opportunities are endless.”

Otto is a keen ambassador for apprenticeships and is equally committed to encouraging more women to join the industry. Otto said: “I would definitely encourage more girls to consider a career in the engineering industry. It is so often a male dominated environment but there are many opportunities and I think it’s important to break down those barriers. I would urge more young people, regardless of gender, to start thinking about jobs in our sector because it can often be overlooked. You’ll not only be earning money and learning but you’ll also be developing your career.

It doesn’t just stop with your apprenticeship either – it’s the years after – the more hours and hard work you put in, the better you can develop yourself and your career.

The company is also currently recruiting for mechanical engineers and operators for its sites as well as forklift truck drivers and is also taking on apprentices to nurture youngsters to start a career in manufacturing.

Russell Roof Tiles is a leading independent pitched roof tile manufacturer supplying products for the top housebuilders and high-profile social housing and commercial projects. The company produces thousands of tiles every week that are used on roofs across the UK, for all of the UK’s premier housebuilders and developers.

Project

BUILD FOR THE FUTURE, REDISCOVER THE PAST Preparatory work for a £10.9m Oxford City Council housing development has unearthed fascinating glimpses into Oxford’s past.

Council housing company Oxford City Housing Ltd (OCHL) and preferred principal contractor Willmott Dixon expect to start

work next month on building 36 flats in the city centre.

The development site is probably best known to current Oxford residents as that of former homeless hostel Lucy Faithfull House, built in the 1970s and demolished in 2018. However, an archaeological

excavation carried out between April and June by MOLA (Museum of London Archaeology) uncovered evidence of Oxford’s medieval past.

BLACKFRIARS The Dominican Order (Blackfriars) first came to Oxford in 1221 and established their first friary near what is now Oxford Town Hall.

Lucy Faithfull House sat on the site of the Blackfriars’ second friary, established in 1246 in what is now the St Ebbe’s area of Oxford.

This was an unusually large friary which functioned as a college – or Studium Generale – for the order, training students from across Europe in theology. It was also head of one of the four visitations into which the English province of Blackfriars was divided.

Lucy Faithfull House sat on the site of the Blackfriars’ second friary, established in 1246 in what is now the St Ebbe’s area of Oxford.

Like other monastic houses in Oxford, Blackfriars came into rapid and repeated conflict with the university. However, its death knell came with the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII in 1538.

Dismantling of the site began not long afterwards.

The Dominican influence in Oxford persisted beyond medieval times. While the Friars area did not survive the post-WW2 clearance and redevelopment of St Ebbe’s, evidence of the Blackfriars’ importance in Oxford still lives on in the street names of Friars Wharf, Preachers Lane and Blackfriars Road.

The Blackfriars did not return to Oxford until the 1920s, with Blackfriars Hall joining the University of Oxford as a permanent private hall in 1994. The new 36 flat development will reference the Blackfriars’ black and white coat of arms by using light and dark building materials throughout.

EXCAVATION AND FINDINGS The excavations uncovered parts of the west range of the main cloister and the west end of the friary church, revealing sequences of external and internal walls and floors

34 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

Project and nearby rubbish pits. Finds included fragments of moulded stone, a 13th or 14th century decorated floor tile from the cloister and painted glass from the west end of the church. A stone coffin was discovered west of the church, along with other burials in the northern part of the site.

The dig also yielded evidence of horn cores indicating the likely use of the site as a tannery after dissolution, as well as stone lined waste pits and pottery dumps belonging to the early 19th century housing that later occupied the site.

The excavation has now been backfilled.

Once construction is underway the impact of the development on the remaining walls and waste pits will be reduced by careful foundation design, with the stone coffin and other burials protected below shallow ground beams.

Following analysis by MOLA specialists, artefacts recovered at the site will be donated to the Oxfordshire Museum for storage and potential display. The council hopes it may be possible for them to be put on temporary display at the Museum of Oxford after it reopens in September.

LUCY FAITHFULL HOUSE Initial planning permission for a Church Army hostel that became Lucy Faithfull House was granted in 1972, with construction beginning the following year.

Once construction is underway the impact of the development on the remaining walls and waste pits will be reduced by careful foundation design, with the stone coffin and other burials protected below shallow ground beams.

The building was used as supported accommodation for people experiencing rough sleeping until it was decommissioned

by Oxfordshire County Council in 2015 as part of a round of funding cuts. When the hostel closed in February 2016, its 61 beds were replaced by 62 beds provided in shared houses across the city.

Oxford City Council acquired Lucy Faithfull House in 2017. As the building was in a bad state of repair and poorly configured for modern use, the council decided it was no longer viable as hostel accommodation and decided to redevelop the site for muchneeded housing.

Lucy Faithfull Foundation, a nationwide charity working to protect children from sexual abuse.

Joining Oxford City Council as a children’s officer in 1958, she was appointed as director of social services in 1970 and retired in 1974 as local government reorganisation put social care in the hands of a new tier of county councils. She was awarded an OBE in 1972 and became Baroness Faithfull of Wolvercote when she accepted a life peerage in 1976.

As Baroness Faithfull, she played a key role in the passage of the Children Act 1989 and later helped to set up the AllParty Parliamentary Group for Children.

She also served as a trustee for a number of voluntary organisations, including Barnardo’s and the National Children’s Bureau. She died in 1996.

Demolition began in April 2018 and was completed that August. The 36 flats on the redeveloped site will be in a single block of four to six storeys, which will include 15 council homes let at social rent, eight shared ownership and three homes at affordable rent. The remaining 10 homes will be for market sale.

Lucy Faithfull herself was a social worker, children’s campaigner and founder of the

COMMENTS Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, cabinet member for planning and housing delivery, said: “History is literally underfoot in Oxford and excavation on the Lucy Faithfull House site has yielded new insights into our city’s medieval past.

The surviving archaeological remains will be protected below the flats for future generations to investigate with new techniques and new questions about Oxford’s rich medieval history.”

Oxford City Council archaeologist, David Radford, said: “The former Lucy Faithfull House proved to have been built on extensive modern foundations.

Nevertheless, the area in the former courtyard proved to be well preserved and the work by MOLA has produced important new information. I am especially pleased about the details we have learnt about the internal layout of the west range of the friary, which certainly surpassed our initial expectations.”

MOLA director of developer services, Sophie Jackson, said: “This year marks the 800th anniversary of the Blackfriars arriving in Oxford. It is an incredible privilege to be working on the site of the second Blackfriars friary, adding further detail to the story of this hugely influential building.”

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 35

Feature SPILLOVER EFFECTS: HOW THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CAN STEM WATER POLLUTION AT THE SOURCE

By Filip Stefanovic, head of engineering at Ecocoast As with all industries, the construction sector is responsible for its fair share of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for 10% of global energy-related CO2 that is released into the Earth’s atmosphere annually. However, emissions are not the only challenges facing the industry as it sets targets to transition across into the new, green economy.

Last month, residents of Narragansett Bay, New England’s largest estuary, witnessed another of the increasingly regular storms that has been afflicting the region over the last several decades. The rain on its own was not the problem, necessarily, it was what the rain was carrying that concerned locals.

Through standard longitudinal monitoring, environmental scientists working in Narragansett have noticed a trend: pollutants and toxic chemicals have begun to accrue in the bay at a concerning rate. Though the more frequent rainstorms are undoubtedly an important factor, they are far from the whole story.

Recently, the estuary’s watershed has witnessed a rapid increase in development, with several building projects taking place delivering much needed housing to the area.

One of the largely invisible impacts of construction projects, however, is that, in order to lay the structure’s foundations, the site’s vegetation and topsoil must be stripped. Grass and soil act as a natural barrier to runoff from reaching bodies of water, but when they are removed, this can exacerbate the polluting effects of rainstorms. This in turn imperils the health of not only the wildlife that depend on the estuary and the habitat that it provides, but also the people who fish there, who grow vegetables in the soil surrounding it, and whose lives and health are so inextricably linked to it.

Water pollution is a common environmental impact of construction projects – as seen in Narragansett. Fortunately, however, this is becoming less true with time. The industry has acknowledged that water pollution poses an immediate threat to the health of ecosystems and people, and is an issue that must be given equal consideration to carbon emissions when discussing what the

Water pollution from construction activities comes in several forms. Substances such as silt, fuels, cement, adhesives, solvents and paints are only a small number of examples of the types of chemicals and materials that can enter our water systems and severely disrupt aquatic life and, in some cases, end up in our drinking water or food. buildings construction industry’s goals and priorities for change should be going forward.

It has therefore begun to make moves to reduce its environmental impact.

Water pollution from construction activities comes in several forms. Substances such as silt, fuels, cement, adhesives, solvents and paints are only a small number of examples of the types of chemicals and materials that can enter our water systems and severely disrupt aquatic life and, in some cases, end up in our drinking water or food. This is a phenomenon that can be amplified by rainfall, which has the effect of mobilising these substances and dispersing them into surrounding areas.

Concrete pollution is a particularly pervasive and challenging issue for the industry. The pH of concrete wash water is incredibly high – typically 12 to 13, which is equivalent to the pH of oven cleaner. Preventing concrete wash water from entering waterways is essential, as it takes 10,000 litres of water to get 1 litre of concrete wash water with a pH of 12 to an acceptable pH of 8 - making dilution of water after the fact neither affordable, sustainable nor practical.

These substances can enter the water system through several channels, such as collection through drainage systems, seeping into soil or running directly into lakes and rivers. However, though this is a wellknown phenomenon, whose mechanisms are well understood, there are, as of yet, no standardised frameworks to minimise this type of pollution.

Construction is an absolutely vital industry upon which we are all reliant for safe, quality buildings, housing and infrastructure,

36 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

but as countries strive to meet their climate obligations set out under the Paris Agreement and to reduce their footprint on the planet, the construction industry will also need to strive to protect the water systems and aquatic habitats from the unintended consequences of its work.

Construction companies can simultaneously build the foundations for our communities, whilst ensuring that these foundations are sustainable.

A growing number of industries are beginning to recognise their impact on the environment, and the many ways in which this occurs. But, of course, change cannot happen overnight. Not every business has the expertise or the resources immediately at their disposal in order to take the steps that they would like, or to even know where to begin. Collaboration between businesses who want to change and businesses who know how to facilitate that will be an increasingly popular trend. And fortunately, the technology required to quickly solve many of these challenges already exists and is readily available.

Ecocoast was founded precisely to prevent damage and pollution to our coastlines and waterways, and over the last decade, we, as well as our subsidiary Bolina, have developed a range of innovative and industry-leading technologies that have been demonstrated to reduce water pollution from constructionrelated activities.

Last year, for example, we collaborated with local authorities and contractors to ensure that construction of a new hydropower dam in the Hajar Mountains in the UAE did not affect the water around which the dam was being built.

Ecocoast installed its Ecobarrier silt curtain and oil booms, in order to address the major project-specific risks, and successfully managed to protect the quality of the reservoir’s water. Similarly, in 2016, Ecocoast implemented a 700m silt curtain in the waters surrounding the Louvre Abu Dhabi, so as to prevent large amounts of sediment from leaking into the water during the construction project and adversely affecting the water’s quality.

Working together and pooling expertise will allow us to bring about meaningful change to the industry and, in doing so, support the realisation of our collective goals. We here at Ecocoast and Bolina are industry leaders in providing construction companies with the insights and the tools required to allow them to fulfil their development commitments in a way that minimises their impact on the local environment, and ensures a more sustainable future for the people that they serve.

For more information on Ecocoast, please visit www.ecocoast.com.

©Thomas Léonard

MINERAL COATING TERRAZZO TYPE Showroom opening hours: from Mon. to Fri.: 8am - 5pm & Sat.: 9am - 13pm www.bealstone.com

Latest News CONSTRUCTING EXCELLENCE MIDLANDS ANNOUNCES LANDMARK PARTNERSHIP WITH INNOVATION EXCHANGE SOCIAL PLATFORM Construction think-tank Constructing Excellence Midlands has announced a landmark partnership with innovation exchange platform The Grid to provide access to dedicated digital social platform SciGrid for its members.

SCi Grid - which facilitates engagement with social value projects in the construction industry - aims to provide guidance on how firms can achieve Net Zero Carbon, providing guidance on the best practice solutions and current policies, as well as becoming a space for collaborative partners to showcase their industry expertise.

The activity feed on SCi Grid will connect innovative minds, companies and organisations to provide a blend of real life, real time and virtual engagement for the construction industry in the Midlands.

The platform will allow industry experts to highlight sustainable construction projects and engage in thought leadership, as well as an opportunity for firms to advertise job opportunities in front of an engaged audience of potential employees.

To find out more about how Constructing Excellence supports the construction sector across the Midlands through innovative methods of industry collaboration, visit https://www.cemidlands.org.

CLC AND CITB ANNOUNCE NEW APPROACH TO SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH IN CONSTRUCTION Landmark new research from CITB has outlined the scale of the mental health challenge facing construction.

A consistent approach to supporting construction workers’ mental health is the goal of a new initiative led by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and CITB. CITB’s Mental Health And Construction: A Consistent Approach research, published today (Wednesday 4 August), is the most comprehensive study conducted on mental health and self-harm within construction.

The report identifies opportunities for industry to address shortcomings and improve wellbeing for workers.

The risk of suicide among some sitebased workers is three times the national average and a May 2020 Chartered Institute of Building report found that 26% of construction workers who responded to their survey had experienced suicidal thoughts; 97% had experienced stress over the past year.

CITB’s new research highlights a growing number of good initiatives but finds that their impact is currently held back by the lack of a coherent aim and message. Given the growing need to tackle mental health, developing a joined-up approach has become more urgent.

The CLC has backed the research having already prioritised mental health in its recovery plan, and is now pulling industry together to agree a plan to address it. This will seek to tackle the underlying causes of poor mental health, generate better evidence of what impact the initiatives are achieving and develop a more joined up approach.

Industry culture still perpetuates poor mental wellbeing. Factors include working

away from home, heavy workloads, long working hours, and job insecurity. Poor management practices and understanding can exacerbate the problem, but some exemplars do a great job of looking after their workers - this inconsistency needs to be tackled.

The level and quality of evidence must also improve. There is a range of different mental health and wellbeing support available from industry professional bodies, charities and employers. However, evidence of the effectiveness of the support available is limited.

There needs to be more consistent and accessible support for workers in the smaller firms that supply larger ones.

Many employers provide mental health and wellbeing support programmes to workers in their supply chains. However, these workers are often not aware that they can access mental health and wellbeing resources from their principal contractor.

CITB has invested in programmes aimed at helping industry develop skills, behaviours and ways of working that will make it a safer, healthier place to work. Since June 2018 it has funded over 29.000 mental health courses.

CITB provided funding for a Build UK and Timewise project where BAM Construct, BAM Nuttall, Skanska and Willmott Dixon joined forces to identify what measures best enhanced flexible working for some 11,000 employees.

Funding by CITB, through the Building Mental Health initiative, the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity and Mental Health First Aid England, has helped train over 260 Mental Health First Aid Instructors.

NO ‘WILL OR JOINED-UP THINKING’ TO USE TECH TO SOLVE CLIMATE CHANGE – SUSTAINABILITY EXPERT Following the landmark UN climate change report, Laura Mansel-Thomas, a partner and sustainability expert at Ingleton Wood, a property and construction consultancy, said: “The latest UN climate change report is certainly sobering reading. People all over the world – including those very close to home – are being affected by extreme weather, with events that used to happen every 50-100 years now happening every 5-10 years.

However, there is so much we can do if we

38 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

act quickly. It is frustrating to think that, in the built environment, we have all the technologies we need – not withstanding that better, cheaper ones may be round the corner – but not the knowledge, will or joined-up thinking to put them into place.

“Local organisations such as the Essex Climate Action Commission, of which I’m a commissioner, are trying to change this, pulling together efforts from the public and private sector and individuals to facilitate real change.”

D CP A Y K A O OD BO T

The Old Vinyl Factory, Hayes

Proud to enable the design and installation of urban trees at this iconic development.

w: greenblue.com t: 01580 830800 e: hello@greenblue.com

Case Study SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY ACHIEVES SAVINGS OF 286 TONNES OF CO2

MORE SPACE FOR RETAIL: WEIGHT SAVINGS OF OVER 3,000 TONNES THANKS TO VOID FORMERS MEAN A SHOPPING CENTRE CAN EXPAND WITHOUT NEEDING ADDITIONAL REINFORCEMENT WORK The Dreiländergalerie in Weil am Rhein is a new shopping and service centre currently being built in a central inner-city location.

As well as a tight schedule, a series of construction-related planning changes posed the greatest challenge. One of the buildings was to have an extra floor added, to create more space for retail. Increasing the total weight of the building as a result of this was not an option, as otherwise the earthquake resilience verification would have been compromised, and extensive reinforcement work would have been

needed on the walls and foundation slabs.

On advice from structural engineers ASSMANN BERATEN + PLANEN GmbH, the building management company CEMAGG Weil am Rhein GmbH & Co. KG decided to use void former modules from Heinze Cobiax Germany GmbH right from the second basement floor, to keep the weight of the extended building constant.

This saves 3,365 tonnes. This sustainable technology also means lower concrete use: 227 fewer concrete mixer trips are needed, meaning 286 tonnes lower CO2 emissions.

Cobiax is doing their bit towards the concept of green energy building, for which LEED Gold certification is being sought.

In future, passengers on the S8 tram line in Weil am Rhein will be able to enjoy some unique views: in a central location on Europaplatz, a service and retail centre is being built under the project name “Dreiländergalerie”, which will incorporate the building housing the tram’s terminus.

The complex, which is being project managed by CEMAGG Weil am Rhein GmbH & Co. KG, comprises a main building and a standalone tower, connected on the upper floor and traversed by the tram at ground level. Upon completion, the building, designed by the Düsseldorf office of Chapman Taylor following plans by architect Yvonne von Salm, will have 26,500 m² of retail space, enough for 550 parking spaces, 60-70 shops and restaurants, and other services besides.

“In addition to the tight schedule, the biggest structural challenges were the geographical location, being in a seismic zone 3, and the subsequent expansion of the building,” claims Christof Hülsmann, structural planner in charge at ASSMANN BERATEN + PLANEN GmbH. “When the client asked about potentially adding an extra floor, the foundations and two lower floors had already been constructed. The extra loading which had to be taken into account with an optional third floor presented a challenge, especially for

40 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

Case Study verifying earthquake resilience.” In the event of earth tremors, the extra weight places greater loading on the strengthening stair cores and their foundations. In conventional design, the option of adding a floor would only have been possible using complex reinforcement structures on the walls and foundation slabs, which had already been manufactured. So the structural engineer recommended using void former modules from Heinze Cobiax Deutschland GmbH, which are made from 100 per cent recycled plastic. They have been installed starting from the second basement floor, to keep the weight of the extended building constant.

“Thanks to void former technology, we were able to prepare the building for the potential addition of another floor without disrupting or even interrupting the construction process that had already started,” claims Jana Knoppe, project manager at Drees & Sommer as client representative for CEMAGG.

Using void former technology saves 3,365 tonnes in weight The building was initially scoped with point-supported reinforced concrete slabs with no void formers. But, by using these starting from the slab above the second basement floor, the dead weight of the floor slabs can now be reduced, significantly reducing the loading on the load-bearing and strengthening building elements. To this end, around 108,000 void formers have been used in precisely predefined, structurally non-critical areas, resulting in a total void former slab area of around 35,000 m2.

Due to different slab thicknesses, various versions of the Cobiax SL and EL systems are used (including SL-100-120.7, SL-M140-160.7 and EL-M-360), some being pre-assembled and others delivered as parts for assembly at the construction site.

“The different slab thicknesses arise because there are different span requirements in the underground car park, retail areas, shopping area, covered areas and storerooms,” says Hülsmann. “Due to zone 3 seismic activity, particular design requirements had to be met in

accordance with DIN 4149: 2005 in any areas holding up the point-supported slabs, affecting the layout of the void formers.” According to the structural design, structural shear reinforcement needs to be installed around the columns and mushroom piling, so the distances between the void formers and these points are somewhat greater than in buildings with no earthquake resilience verification. There are also variations in the void former heights around the point supports, where larger extra rebar structures are required.

The void formers reduce the expected total weight of the extended building by around 3,365 tonnes. “Using our technology not only means a huge improvement in terms of the weight of the building,” explains Barbara Staab, project manager at Heinze Cobiax Germany. “By reducing the amount of concrete and so too the amount of cement, there is also an environmental benefit that cannot be ignored, as 227 fewer concrete deliveries are now needed. According to our calculations, savings in the case of the Dreiländergalerie amounted to 286 tonnes of CO2.” The noticeable reduction in construction site traffic and the resource-saving construction method fit in very well with the green energy concept behind the shopping and service centre, which includes heating from a CHP unit.

The extra loading which had to be taken into account with an optional third floor presented a challenge, especially for verifying earthquake resilience Support during planning and on site Cobiax in fact provided extensive support during project planning, to ensure the best possible configuration of void formers.

For example, existing height differences between two reinforcement layers could be compensated for by using two different void former sizes. “Cobiax has been actively involved in the planning process and has teamed up automatically and smoothly with everyone involved in the construction as needed, such as the structural engineer, reviewer and site management,” confirms Hülsmann. The building complex, which is to be certified in accordance with LEED Gold, is marked for completion at the end of 2021. The Dreiländergalerie will then be handed over for its new life as a service and retail centre. In fact, the complex has already welcomed a distinguished visitor during construction: the German children’s tv programme “Die Sendung mit der Maus” was enthusiastic about the void formers, reporting in one episode on the benefits of this design.

By reducing the amount of concrete and so too the amount of cement, there is also an environmental benefit that cannot be ignored, as 227 fewer concrete deliveries are now needed.

Construction UK Magazine - August 2021 41

Company News

SIR ROBERT MCALPINE COMMITS TO THE SCIENCE BASED TARGETS INITIATIVE TO CUT EMISSIONS Sir Robert McAlpine has today joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as part of its efforts to tackle the climate emergency.

A partnership between the Carbon Disclosure Project, the UN Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, and the World Wide Fund for Nature, the SBTi was established to help companies ensure their policies to tackle climate change are based on science, thereby providing a route to sustainable growth.

Offering guidance on how much and how quickly a business’s emissions need to be reduced as well as expert advice on taking the necessary steps, the SBTi has seen its members reduce their emissions by 25% between 2015 and 2019.

Having already committed to becoming Net Zero Carbon by 2025 and delivering a 60% reduction in their scope 1&2 emissions between 2016 and 2020, the company

LAND & WATER’S CEO GIVES BACK TO ROYAL CHARTERED CHRIST’S HOSPITAL CHARITY SCHOOL James Maclean, CEO of leading wet civil engineering firm Land & Water, is helping the school which gave him access to a lifechanging education 40 years ago, offering his company’s services to undertake the dredging and restoration of two lakes at the independent school Christ’s Hospital in Horsham.

The Royal Chartered school, which was established in 1552 by King Edward VI, is the UK’s leading charitable school, and largest bursary charity. It actively seeks pupils of potential, who often come from varied and complex backgrounds and

will now undertake detailed emissions hot spotting and reduction scenarios to establish its broader approach to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction in line with climate science.

The findings of the exercise will result in a revised direction for Sir Robert McAlpine’s carbon commitment, one which recognises the urgency with which we all need to address the climate emergency.

Once complete, the company will submit its plan and targets for assessment and independent verification by the SBTi, ensuring its approach to tackling climate change is transparent and credible.

Simon Richards, Head of Sustainability at Sir Robert McAlpine, commented: “Addressing the climate emergency is a monumental task and embedding the necessary changes will take a career to deliver. It’s a challenge, but one that we cannot fail to address, which is why I am proud of today’s announcement. At Sir Robert McAlpine, we’re proudly building Britain’s future heritage and today we’ve taken a step closer in provides free or substantially reduced cost places to ensure that children have access to first-class education no matter their background.

Working with its bioengineering arm, Terraqua Environmental Solutions (TES), Land & Water will be carrying out the restoration works as part of the school’s new transformational curricular which places great emphasis on learning skills for life and spending time outdoors, learning new skills and helping them broaden their education. The lakes, which are currently overgrown and in poor condition, will be used for open water swimming, fishing, biology lessons and for cadet force training and other broader curricular pursuits.

Land & Water, alongside its trusted suppliers including Tomato Plant Ltd, Welfare Hire Nationwide, Timbermats and Speedy Asset Services, will be carrying out the works at a reduced cost to support the charity and its commitment towards providing pupils with the best possible

42 Construction UK Magazine - August 2021

making sure that addressing climate change is at the heart of everything we do as a business.”

Paul Hamer, Chief Executive Officer of Sir Robert McAlpine, commented: “Tackling climate change is a process that requires bold commitments which are backed up by bold action. This is precisely why we have joined the Science Based Targets initiative which will ensure that we hold ourselves to account in a clear and transparent way.

“The incredible work of the SBTi shows it is possible to decarbonise the economy and I am proud that Sir Robert McAlpine will be part of this journey.”

Last year, Sir Robert McAlpine was a founding signatory of the UK Contractors Declare initiative pledging to tackle climate change in the built environment.

Recently, the company was also among the businesses calling on Government to put net zero and nature at the heart of the planning system. preparation for the future. It will also be running the project entirely using HVO fuel, a 90+% net carbon biofuel which substantially reduces carbon emissions compared to conventional gas oil, and is therefore better for the environment.

James Maclean, CEO of Land & Water said: “It is a great honour to be back at the school which gave me such a diverse and transformational education, and to be able to provide the services of Land & Water to enable the current pupils to thrive in an outdoor environment.

“Christ’s Hospital is an extraordinary place.

For nearly 500 years it has been the biggest giver of bursary education in the UK and I’m proud to be part of its history which provides hope and confidence to its pupils.

“I want to say thank you to all of our suppliers who are willing to provide their support at a reduced rate, alongside the Land & Water team, some of whom will be volunteering their spare time to help on this project.”

Unfold the complexities Whatever your construction business size, you will need professional, tailored support if you want to chart a prudent and profitable path.

To help you remain resilient in an industry characterised by high risk and great rewards, our specialist property and construction business advisers and chartered accountants can support you in achieving your objectives and planning for the future.

The services our comprehensive business support packages can provide you with include:

→ Tax and VAT → Accountancy and auditing → Compliance → Finance

NICK HAINES

Partner nick.haines@hazlewoods.co.uk

DAN TOWN

Director dan.town@hazlewoods.co.uk

Speak to a member of our team 01242 237661 www.hazlewoods.co.uk We strongly recommend you take professional advice before making decisions on matters discussed here. No responsibility for any loss to any person acting as a result of the material can be accepted by us. Hazlewoods LLP is a Limited Liability Partnership registered in England and Wales with number OC311817. Registered office: Staverton Court, Staverton, Cheltenham, Glos, GL51 0UX. A list of LLP partners is available for inspection at each office. Hazlewoods LLP is registered to carry on audit work in the UK and regulated for a range of investment business activities by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales.