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Project News
HENRY BOOT CONSTRUCTION TO DELIVER
£10M RESTORATION OF HISTORIC UNIVERSITY OF HUDDERSFIELD BUILDING
Henry Boot Construction has been appointed to deliver a £10million restoration of the Grade II-listed Ramsden Building at the University of Huddersfield, one of the University’s most cherished and architecturally significant buildings.
The restoration will solely focus on internal works, preserving and celebrating the building’s original features – including hidden cornicing, an ornate staircase and wooden wall panelling – while ensuring it meets modern academic and sustainability standards.
The project will also involve a complete overhaul of the building’s
mechanical and electrical systems, including the installation of new airsource heat pumps (ASHPs) within the central courtyard to provide sustainable heating. A retrospective mezzanine level will be removed, restoring a stunning double-height space to be used for events.
Upon completion, the ground floor will house the University’s International Study Centre, while the two upper floors will provide space for post-graduate research, offices and computer labs.
The restoration of the building is now underway, with project completion set for early 2026.
SURFACING CONTRACT SET TO TRANSFORM FORMER DERBYSHIRE RAILWAY
HMS Decorative Surfacing has been selected by construction firm Pugh-Lewis as part of its contract with Derbyshire County Council to transform the 5.6km former Midland Railway Ripley Branch Line into an accessible, eco-friendly path for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
The new, durable path will provide a popular travel route between Derby City and Ripley. This eco-friendly solution combines the flexibility of recycled rubber with the strength and durability of aggregates and resin. Once completed, it will create an environmentally friendly greenway, which
has been a long ambition for Derbyshire County Council to promote greener community space and eco-friendly travel whilst increasing tourism to the area.
The redevelopment of the greenway on the former railway line is set to transform the area by connecting surrounding towns and villages with greener commuter routes and further strengthen Derbyshire’s green infrastructure by forming part of its Key Cycle Network.
Phase 1 has begun and is expected to take 4-5 weeks to complete.
VIVID BEGINS BUILDING NEW HOMES AT THE BRICKWORKS MUSEUM SITE
VIVID have started construction work in Bursledon to build 12 new homes. The development will comprise of 7 social rent homes and 5 shared ownership homes, on the cusp of The Brickworks Museum.
Working in partnership with Imperial Homes, the 2-3 bed houses will start taking shape in 2025 using Flemish bond brickwork, which reflects the cottage-style aesthetic of former workers’ cottages in the area.
The land was purchased from the museum, allowing for the renovation and preservation of two, Grade II* listed, Victorian brick drying sheds. Once restored, these will be in a condition to find new uses for them.
The Bursledon brickworks played a vital role in brick production, producing more than 20 million bricks every year, creating a full circle moment for the development.
SISK COMPLETES
TRACK LAYING AND NEXT PHASE OF WORKS COMMENCE ON LIMERICK - FOYNES FREIGHT LINE
Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) is a step closer to the reintroduction of freight services on the Limerick to Foynes rail line, as the laying of 42km of new track is now complete.
The 42km stretch of railway between Limerick city and Foynes Port originally opened in 1858 but has been inactive since 2001. The line remained under the stewardship of Iarnród Éireann and is being renewed to support the reintroduction of rail freight services.
During the past 27 months, Iarnród Éireann, along with project partners Sisk, have completed the removal of all
CARDIGAN TIDAL FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT SCHEME ADDS BIODIVERSITY ELEMENT TO FLOOD DEFENCE PROJECT
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has appointed Binnies, an RSK Group company, to bring a range of skills to the project in Cardigan, in the county of Ceredigion, as part of its efforts to manage the risk of tidal flooding to approximately 90 properties in the area. The project is currently in the detailed design phase.
Binnies will support NRW with civil engineering design, including geotechnical and structural design, environmental assessment, landscape visual impact assessment, hydraulic modelling and planning and consenting support.
Fellow RSK Group companies will work with Binnies, with Central Alliance assisting with services surveys and RSK Acoustics providing a noise impact assessment.
original rail line infrastructure, followed by a complete renewal and relaying of 42km of track, sleepers and track bed.
The project now enters its next phase with works to be undertaken over the next 18 months including signalling and telecoms infrastructure, the closure of user worked level crossings by structures, the refurbishment of Foynes Station building, and the installation and testing of CCTV at the 13 public road level crossings, a significant safety improvement over previous gated crossings.
Iarnród Éireann Rail Freight 2040 Strategy will position rail at the centre of Ireland’s freight transport system, creating connections and giving greater opportunity for business to switch from road freight to more sustainable rail freight.
The line is planned to come into operation in 2026.
The primary flood risk is tidal flooding within the River Teifi that flows through the town. The scheme is being designed to provide protection against a tidal flood that has a one in 200 chance of occurring within any one year period, with an allowance for climate change.
The new flood wall will stretch from the historic Cardigan Bridge to Gloster Row car park, a length of over 300 metres. Steel sheet piles will form the main stem of the wall, which will appear approximately 1.5 to 2 metres tall from the land-side.
This rock would be placed in combination with bioengineering products to soften the visual appearance and create habitats along the river corridor.
BOUYGUES UK TO BUILD WATERFRONT CAMPUS AND ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY CENTRE
FOR CARDIFF AND VALE COLLEGE
Bouygues UK has been awarded the contract to build the Barry Waterfront Campus and the Advanced Technology Centre in the Vale of Glamorgan for Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC).
Delivered through a single contract under the Mutual Investment Model (MIM) programme, both College campuses will be open and operational for students in 2027. This is the largest project being delivered through the MIM programme and developed by the Welsh Education Partnership Company (WEPCo).
Designed by Shephard Robson Architects and Arup’s multi-disciplinary engineering services, work will start on site in June this year, with an expected completion mid-year 2027.
As a prominent Net Zero Carbon in Operation development in Barry Waterfront’s Innovation Quarter, the new campus is expected to become a long-term sustainable learning environment that will bring substantial community benefits.
Leading the project for Bouygues UK will be experienced Project Director Peter Sharpe, who has led Zone 1 of the multi-million-pound leisure, business and community health facility at Pentre Awel in Llanelli for Carmarthenshire Council. Both BWC and ATC will meet the Welsh Government’s stringent embodied carbon targets and will be Net Zero Carbon in Operation.
Delivered through the Welsh Government’s MIM programme, the new College campuses will be maintained and operated for 25 years, by Robertson FM, once construction works are completed in 2027, ensuring that the buildings remain as high-quality facilities for years to come.
A NEW £22 MILLION SEND SCHOOL IN WEMBLEY REACHES SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE
Teachers, councillors and construction workers celebrated the installation of the final 18 modular units that make up a new £22 million school in Wembley.
These were the final modular units of the 121 required to construct the new school building at the ultra-sustainable Wembley Manor School in London Road, which has been built to meet the growing need for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) places in Brent.
The school will create an additional 150 SEND places in Brent to give children more options locally, rather than having to travel outside of the borough, as well as providing much-needed specialist support for families.
A key achievement of the project has been securing BREEAM certification with an impressive design score of 98.9, positioning the school on track to achieve an overall BREEAM Outstanding rating.
Additionally, the project has also earned a perfect score of 45 out of 45 for the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) and has been nominated for a CCS award.
The new Wembley Manor building is notable for being the largest threestory school delivered by Reds10, utilising 121 modular units, and for achieving the fastest programme delivery, which includes both demolition and construction.
Work commenced on site in July 2024 and the Reds10 team has managed to accelerate the programme to be ahead of schedule for completion in the autumn of 2025 while remaining sensitive to the local community and the school surroundings.
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FC1 – NOW AVAILABLE AT TRADE POINT NATIONWIDE!
Professionals and DIYers can now get their hands on FC1 – The Ultimate All-in-One Filler Caulk at Trade Point stores nationwide!
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With FC1, there’s no need for multiple products—one tube does it all! Whether you’re a painter, decorator, builder, or DIY enthusiast, FC1 is your go-to solution for a seamless finish, every time.
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With FC1, there’s no need for multiple products—one tube does it all! Whether you’re a painter, decorator, builder, or DIY enthusiast, FC1 is your go-to solution for a seamless finish, every time.
UNIVERSAL TOTAL STATION TECHNOLOGY DRIVES BIG SAVINGS FOR RJT EXCAVATIONS
SITECH® UK & Ireland have supplied Trimble® technology to specialist earthworks contractor RJT Excavations delivering huge cost savings on the Carlisle Southern Link Road (CSLR) project in Cumbria.
With the help of SITECH, authorised dealer of Trimble® Civil Construction Field Systems, Scottish Borders-based RJT deployed a Trimble® Universal Total Station (UTS) high-precision positioning system for the first time.
This innovative technology delivers millimetre-level machine guidance, reducing both the amount of surfacing materials used on the 8km stretch of road, and the time taken for surveys and rechecking.
Gary Garner, Engineering Manager at RJT describes how the company came to use the UTS system: “Having worked on many civil engineering projects where accuracy is important, we are used to
working with Trimble GPS and real-time kinetic corrections. For this project we knew that even greater accuracy would pay dividends.
“Having worked closely with SITECH for over 10 years we asked about UTS. They supplied the kit and gave us all the technical support we needed to set up the system and get the best out of it throughout the project.”
The GPS used in standard machine guidance compares time signals from multiple satellites to fix a machine’s position to within a few centimetres. UTS relies instead on a ‘total station’ in a fixed position on the ground, which uses line of sight lasers which bounce off reflectors mounted on the equipment. Data from the station integrates with the Trimble Earthworks 3D machine control system to guide machines to within a couple of millimetres.
Garner explains how the system is delivering significant savings on the project: “As long as the total station has line of sight it can stay in position for a whole day so just needs setting up once. This enables grading of the road surface to millimetre-level precision with no
interruptions for manual stakeouts or rechecking.
“This saves time and enables the project to proceed with fewer surveying personnel, thereby minimising the interaction between plant machinery and operatives. Reducing the manual aspect of the project also delivers health and safety benefits as operatives don’t need to work alongside the plant, significantly reducing the risk of injury on site. It also allows for a perfect spread of tarmac first time. While the difference between a few centimetres and a few millimetres might not sound like much, the CSLR is 8km long so overall this method delivered significant cost savings when compared to conventional level control methods.”
Liam Payne, Regional Sales Representative at SITECH, oversaw the supply of the equipment: “RJT hired the equipment first and placed an order to buy very shortly afterwards. This is testament to the overall value of UTS and we expect to see this technology become more commonplace on UK projects going forward.”
The CSLR project is ongoing and scheduled for completion later this year.
Show Preview: Digital Construction Week
VISITOR REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR 10TH ANNIVERSARY DCW
Digital Construction Week, the UK’s leading event for innovation and technology in the built environment, has opened visitor registration 2025.
Taking place on 4-5 June 2025 at ExCeL London, Digital Construction Week (DCW) features two days packed full of inspiring content. Including 350+ speakers across 10 stages, 120 hours of CPD accredited education, 150+ exhibitors, live demos, workshops, networking drinks, and much more.
Attendees will get the chance to network with other industry innovators, explore the future of the built environment and get inspired at this free to attend expo.
Karolina Orecchini, Event Director of DCW, shares, “We’re thrilled to be preparing for the landmark 10th edition of Digital Construction Week in 2025. This special anniversary event will offer even greater opportunities for the industry to network, collaborate, and drive innovation.
“Since its launch in 2015, DCW has become the go-to event to explore new technologies that are shaping the future and improving results across the built environment. With free registration now available, we look forward to welcoming attendees on June 4-5.”
Discover the innovations transforming the built environment
The latest solutions from 150+ leading built environment brands will be showcased at the event. DCW acts as a one-stop shop for visitors to learn how to
use new technology to improve projects, assets, teams and business directly from the companies driving AECO forward.
The disruptive technologies and solutions set to be on display include digital twins, augmented reality, information management, automation and AI, drones, robotics and much more.
Visitors will discover how these solutions can help them be more efficient, collaborative, connected, sustainable and profitable.
An array of inspiring brands have been confirmed to exhibit at the 10th edition of DCW. These include Atkins Réalis Autodesk, Bentley Systems, Bluebeam, Causeway Technologies, Chime Software, Dassault Systemes, Elecosoft UK, Glider, Global eTraining, IFS UK, Mission Room, MSite, Nemetschek SE, OpenSpace,
Paperless Construction, Procore, Symetri, Twinit and many more.
Learn and get inspired in the education programme
It’s not just in the central exhibition where the latest industry innovation will be in the spotlight. The event also boasts 10 theatres of free-to-attend talks, informative panels discussion, interactive workshops and more.
Hear from 300+ industry experts and get up to speed on the latest ideas shaping architecture and design, engineering and operations.
We are introducing two new stages this year, to bring visitors the most current perspectives in the industry. The Inspire Stage is about spotlighting bold ideas, big-picture thinking, and stories of innovation that could transform the industry. The Digital Operations Stage explores how digital technologies and processes are revolutionising the operation and maintenance of built assets.
The full programme will be announced in the spring.
Register now for DCW 2025 and stay up to date.
Show Preview: Digital Construction Week
WHEN THE CONTRACT BREAKS THE BUILD: A STUDY IN CONTRACT MISMANAGEMENT
In an industry built on precision, planning, and partnership, even wellintentioned projects can go awry. Let us consider a hypothetical, yet plausible, case study of a residential development in South London. While fictional, this scenario is drawn from common, and all too familiar patterns seen across the UK construction sector.
A mid-sized developer sets out to convert a disused office block into 80 modern flats. The budget is £12 million, the contract is JCT Design and Build, and the project is set for 18 months. A main contractor is engaged, subcontractors appointed, and early progress appears steady.
Then, issues start to emerge. The client introduces incremental design changes, but fails to issue formal variation instructions. The contractor, keen to maintain progress, acts on verbal approvals. The contract administrator, juggling multiple responsibilities, struggles to document amendments systematically. Drawings and instructions are shared via email, PDFs, and even WhatsApp, without any centralised version control.
Soon, delays creep in. Disputes arise around scope, cost, and responsibility. Crucial notices under the contract are missed. Early warnings are either ignored or never raised. The result? The project slips nine months behind schedule and runs £2.5 million over budget. Relations between the contractor and developer deteriorate, and the matter enters a prolonged legal dispute. Work halts altogether for over a year.
obligations, timeframes, and mechanisms under the contract.
At ConsolidateDocs, we are excited to help construction companies turn their static contracts into dynamic assets, providing visibility, simplicity and control.
This hypothetical scenario isn’t a story of poor workmanship or health and safety failings. It’s a cautionary tale of contract mismanagement, a breakdown in process, visibility, communication, and accountability. Does it sound familiar?
The Lessons
Robust management is critical. No work should proceed on the basis of assumptions or informal instructions. Every change must be documented, costed, and contractually agreed in writing - and then managed.
Contractual awareness must be embedded throughout the project team. Everyone, from site managers to commercial leads should understand key
Early warnings and formal notifications are not confrontational, they’re essential. Exercising contractual rights clearly and promptly gives both parties a chance to resolve issues before they spiral into costly disputes. Technology can support transparency. A centralised, digital contract management system ensures that all parties work from the same set of live documents, instructions, and approvals, ConsolidateDocs will do this for you.
The Takeaway
This hypothetical case reflects a reality many in the industry recognise. The challenge is operational as much as technological: treating contracts not as static documents, but as living frameworks for successful collaboration. Contracts are not just legal documents, they are operational frameworks. In an environment as complex and riskladen as construction, managing them rigorously is non-negotiable.
Don’t wait for a crisis to remind you: project success depends not just on how you build, but how you manage the contract that governs the build.
At ConsolidateDocs, we are excited to help construction companies turn their static contracts into dynamic assets, providing visibility, simplicity and control. Contact our team to explore how our AInative platform can revolutionise contract management for you.
Show Preview: Digital Construction Week
TIRED OF THE PAPER CHAOS?
Here’s how smart safety teams are winning back time after ditching paper for good
Benjamin Franklin was wrong when he said there are only two certainties in life. There’s a third – that document you need is never where you think it is.
Documents get lost. Inductions take half a day. Audits are stressful. And let’s be real… you and the site team hate paperwork.
“Loudest feedback from site and operatives: ‘it’s great, it’s easy, it takes all of the paperwork away.’”
Doesn’t this sound more up your alley?
A safety process that saves you time and effort, obliterates the risk of missing information, and is all documented digitally.
I can do 60-70% of a site audit remotely whereas before, I would have to
travel across to each site.
- Michelle Aidley, HSC Manager, Amspec
Well, that’s no longer a pipe dream.
1Breadcrumb is the premier Procoreintegrated site safety tool that’s easy to use and loved by SHEQ Managers across the UK and Ireland.
Cast your mind to that Monday morning pile-up of un-inducted subbies...
With 1Breadcrumb you can kiss that signature-chasing lifestyle goodbye.
What else can it do?
Real-time compliance updates - meaning you always know exactly who’s on site, what certifications they have, and if they’ve been properly inducted.
RAMS digitally tracked and updated in real-time - say goodbye to never ending email chains.
And the best bit? Everything pulls through to Procore immediately.
When we demonstrate the use of Procore and 1Breadcrumb, it contributes immensely to instilling confidence in clients.
- Sam Beadle, Construction Manager, QOB
The site safety tool that plugs into Procore.
NAVIGATING BUILDING WARRANTY INSURANCE CHALLENGES FOR HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS
With a rise in social housing construction, Housing Associations encounter unique challenges in securing reliable and affordable warranty insurance.
As the demand for social housing grows, understanding these complexities and leveraging specialist advice becomes crucial for Housing Associations to navigate the evolving insurance landscape effectively and ensure the protection of their investments.
Building warranty insurance, otherwise known as structural warranty, or latent defects insurance has, like many markets, undergone significant transition in recent years. At a macro level, major social, political and economic events such as the Brexit referendum, Grenfell tragedy, Coronavirus and the war in Ukraine have all significantly impacted on the insurance sector. Contractor insolvency and poor insurance capacity continue to feature in the UK warranty market. As a result, building warranties have generally become more expensive, harder to obtain and increasingly complex for Housing Associations.
Market context
In 2024, there was a net increase of nearly 43,000 social homes constructed compared to 2023. This growth was primarily fuelled by the addition of approximately 24,800 Affordable Rent homes and 17,300 low-cost home ownership homes. Additionally, there was a modest rise of about 700 social rent homes.
The outlook for social housing development in 2025 and beyond appears promising. The Government plans to invest £5 billion in housing for the 2025-26 period, marking a £1 billion increase from the previous year. This includes an additional £500 million for the Affordable Homes Programme and an extra £50 million to accelerate planning reform.
Furthermore, the social housing stock will be expanded through a new 5-year commitment to a social housing rent settlement, providing the sector with
greater long-term funding certainty and enabling investment in tens of thousands of new homes. Efforts to preserve existing stock will include reducing Right to Buy discounts, ensuring that thousands more council homes remain within the sector.
With the outlook of development in the sector appears promising, this article will explore some of the key issues and considerations faced by housing associations when obtaining building warranty insurance. It will also show how a specialist can assist Housing Associations in helping to de-risk the buying process as well as managing structural warranty requirements.
Contractor insolvency
There have been a number of high-profile contractor insolvencies in recent years including Buckingham Group, Henry Construction and most recently ISG. While these events have a significant impact on supply chains, they can also affect or even invalidate building warranty cover for a Housing Association. A change in contractor represents a ‘material change in risk’ in the eyes of the insurer and will provide them with the option to withdraw the original offer of insurance. Obtaining retrospective cover for Housing Associations with a suitable alternative market can also be a challenge, as the below sections will explore.
Contractor insolvency cover may be available with certain markets. As the name suggests, this cover is focused on the solvency of the main contractor and
is in place during the build period. The cover will either indemnify a Housing Association of an amount, usually 10% of the contract value or the insurer will pay to complete the works. Warranty insurers have been less inclined to offer this cover in recent years in response to challenging economic conditions for contractors.
One final consideration for Housing Associations following a contractor insolvency is that insurers would typically look to pay any return insurance premiums back to the entity that originally paid for the policy (or their administrators). It is therefore advisable that the Housing Association look to pay directly for the warranty to avoid delays in recovery.
Unrated & unregulated insurers
The structural warranty market has had a negative history of poor quality, often, unrated insurance companies providing capacity to warranty providers. There have been a number of noticeable insurer insolvencies in recent years such as the collapse of Elite, Alpha/CRL and East West Insurance Company. Insurer failure has significant consequences for any insurance contract, however long-term policies such as building warranties are generally the worst affected as they will need to be replaced within the 12-year policy period. It’s critical for Housing Associations to ensure that the underlying insurer behind the building warranty has a minimum of an A-rating with at least one the major rating agencies.
More recently, insurance companies that are not domiciled or regulated in the UK have become increasing prevalent in the warranty sector. The lack of regulation means that little or no protection may be offered to consumers under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) or Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).
It is not always obvious as to who the underlying insurer is, or indeed their
financial strength or location. Gallagher has a panel of insurers that have been carefully selected with financial strength at the centre of our criteria and is regularly reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of our clients.
Retrospective cover
Closely linked with the financial issues discussed above, retrospective cover commonly refers to an application for building warranty insurance following the completion of a project, or when works are substantially complete. Typically, structural warranty insurance is recommended to be taken out prior to works commencing in order to allow the warranty provider to conduct inspections (commonly known as technical audits), throughout the build. However, there are a number of reasons why a Housing Association might require cover retrospectively, most common of which is following a contractor’s insolvency during the build phase/prior to warranty issuance. In this instance, the existing warranty is likely to be withdrawn on the basis of a ‘material change in risk’ and the Housing Association will have no choice but to seek alternative cover.
In these instances, premiums are very likely to be more expensive and the choice of warranties will be fairly limited when compared to before. Options to Housing Associations may be limited to a handful of insurers including those that are unrated, and the risks associated as has previously been discussed. Some contractor insolvency issues can be mitigated by an owner-led approach whereby the Housing Association retain ownership and control of the constructing process. Again, having an insurance professional to help obtain retrospective cover is crucial to ensuring a suitable replacement can be sourced.
Changing market conditions
Hard market conditions is a term used to describe the lack of available insurance
capacity in a given sector following the withdrawal of capital. Capital may refer to whole insurers pulling out of the market or reducing the amount of business they wish to underwrite. This in turn leads to reduced competition and higher premiums. While hard market cycles are by definition, temporary, there are no guarantees of how long these trends can last and whether capacity and rates will return to the previous ‘soft’ market levels. Unlike many other insurance sectors that are experiencing ‘softer’ conditions, the structural warranty market continues to be in a hard market cycle, generally in response to the high rate of insolvencies and lack of A-rated capacity available. Such conditions further highlight the need for independent impartial advice and choice.
In summary, there are evidently a number of challenges facing Housing Associations in respect of structural warranty insurance. The significant events of the last few years have had a ‘trickle down’ effect on insurance availability, price and quality. Now more than ever, is the need for a straight-forward, specialist broker-led option to help alleviate some of the pain points often experienced when navigating the structural warranty market.
Get in touch with a specialist today to discuss your construction insurance.
FIRMS NAMED ON PLANNED WORKS FRAMEWORK FOR SCOTTISH SOCIAL LANDLORDS
38 contractors have joined a £380m framework to supply and install planned and cyclical maintenance works to Scottish councils and housing associations over four years.
Procurement services provider, PfH Scotland has appointed 22 regional SME firms and 16 larger national companies, including Bell Group, CCG Scotland, Easy Heat Systems, McConnell, Procast, Sidey Solutions, Joinery and Timber Creations (JTC), and Wren Kitchens.
They will provide kitchens, bathrooms, windows, doors, electrical works, roofing, painting, decorating, property refurbishment and surrounding works – including hard landscaping and fencing - to local authorities and housing associations in Scotland.
The framework is structured across 12 lots and tailored to different regions of Scotland so local requirements can be addressed. Social landlords have the option to procure products only, or a one-stop route for supply of products and installation. There is also the option for full property refurbishment services.
Figures from the Scottish Housing Regulator show that in 2023/24, registered social landlords in Scotland spent £945m on management and maintenance – the highest on record. Planned maintenance expenditure increased by 3.88% to £176.03m, impacted by higher costs, labour shortages and supply chain disruptions.
Scottish social landlords are dealing with unexpected remediation costs for RAAC, cladding and damp and mould, along with meeting obligations under the Scottish Housing Quality Standard, fire safety regulations and decarbonisation standards; all whilst keeping rents as low as possible.
STAGGERING COSTS REVEALED OF UPGRADING HOMES TO HIT NET ZERO TARGETS
New research has revealed that it will cost up to £118 billion for UK households to raise the energy efficiency standards of their homes to the Government’s benchmark standard Energy Performance Certificate rating of ‘C’.
Alongside other measures, retrofitting millions of homes with better insulation and double glazing will be essential if the UK is to hit the 2030 Net Zero target.
The research from Impact Data Metrics, which was produced by analysing more than 19 million records using its unique machine-learning and AI-driven system, shows:
• It will cost between £6,220 to £11.120 to upgrade each property to reach C or better. At the lower range that equates to £65.4 billion and at the higher range to £118.1 billion.
• Household energy consumption IS falling – particularly among people living in the most energy-inefficient homes, which were worst hit by the surge in prices post Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine. Between 2020 and 2023, inclusive, data from DESNZ shows that there has been an overall decline in energy consumption by households in local authority areas, ranging from 8.1% to 17.8%.
• Dramatic intervention in the form of green grants for homeowners and private landlord will be required if the UK is going to meet Net Zero targets.
• Even if there were the resources to retrofit the 10 million-plus homes that need work to get to EPC C, there’s a worrying shortage of skilled trades to carry out the work.
Impact Data Metrics, which works with local authorities, developers and
agencies leading net zero campaigns to retrofit homes and business premises, has used the latest data to establish there are 29 million UK homes. Of these, 62% are privately owned.
As of 2030 all private landlords will be required to meet a higher standard of Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C or equivalent in their properties – up from the current level of EPC E, but these regulations will not affect private homes.
IDM’s analysis of the data indicates this could be as many 1.1M privately rented homes at less than EPC C rating, of which 51,000 will not reach a C despite improvements, leaving an estimated bill for upgrades at between £6.7 and £12 billion to be met by private landlords.
LABOUR’S HOUSING
GOAL
PREDICTED TO EXCEED INDUSTRY CAPACITY BY 23%
According to recent research by Think Timber, a strategic partner to the timber staircase sector, the UK staircase industry faces a concerning capacity shortfall of almost one-quarter to meet the government’s housing target— to build 1.5 million homes by 2030. Think Timber gathered data from all the UK staircase manufacturers to compare current, maximum and required output to produce and supply 300,000 staircases annually, unveiling an alarming gap in the industry’s resources.
With the construction sector already handicapped by the lack of skilled labour, rising costs and industry politics, these findings
indicate the goal is unlikely to come to fruition. While the government has attempted to respond to these issues by launching Skills England and investing £140 million into New Skills Hub—a programme which will deliver fast-track industry training—more systematic change is needed.
As the nation navigates its way through the housing crisis, the need for greater collaboration between the government and the smaller links within the supply chain is essential. This will ensure SMEs have the right support in place, creating a resilient supply chain and the delivery of highquality homes.
THE SPRING STATEMENT: A TURNING POINT FOR CONSTRUCTION -
BUT EXECUTION IS EVERYTHING
- By Rachel Hughes, director of marketing at wienerberger UK & Ireland.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement marked a crucial moment for the construction industry. One of the most encouraging elements was the government’s focus on planning reform. Addressing these systemic issues could unlock significant potential - but success will depend on more than policy announcements.
The £2 billion investment in affordable and social housing, announced by Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, is another welcome step in tackling the housing crisis. But funding alone won’t deliver the 18,000 homes promised by 2029. Effective execution will determine whether this target becomes a reality.
Skills were another standout focus, with £600 million earmarked for training and technical education. Investment in training is a strong start, but it must be sustained and targeted; long-term collaboration between government, education providers, and industry will be essential to ensure the workforce is ready for the future.
In short, the Spring Statement sets out a bold vision for construction, now the task is to turn ambition into delivery.
SEDDON COLLABORATES WITH ‘MATES IN MIND’ TO BETTER SUPPORT SUB-CONTRACTORS
Seddon Housing Partnerships and UK mental health charity Mates in Mind are collaborating to improve workplace wellbeing in the construction sector.
The construction and development specialist will expand Mates in Mind’s support to all contractors and sub-
contractors working with Seddon, not just direct employees.
The partnership will allow for a contractor or subcontractor to have a Lite assessment, encouraging each to examine their mental health support on offer. Following the assessment, Mates
in Mind is then able to offer ways to improve their offering for their staff. Each firm will be supplied with printed resources and leaflets, as well as training about how best to start conversations around mental health and how to provide ongoing support for team members.
INTERVIEW: RICHARD WALL-MORRIS,
HEAD OF DELIVERY AT LONDON GATWICK
We speak with Richard Wall-Morris, Head of Delivery for Major Projects at London Gatwick, ahead of the airport’s ambitious £140m pier extension project. Slated for completion in 2027, the extension will add eight new aircraft gates, enhancing passenger experience by eliminating the need for remote stand buses and increasing efficiency, whilst ensuring minimal disruption to operations during works.
Richard discusses the project’s focus on sustainability, including a 60% reduction in embodied carbon and plans for BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and ‘Outstanding’ ratings; also highlighting collaborative efforts with contractor Mace to ensure the project not only meets environmental goals but also aligns with Gatwick’s broader vision for future expansion, including the potential Northern Runway plans.
Can you provide an overview of the £140m pier extension project and its role in increasing capacity and resilience at London Gatwick?
We’ve been developing the project for a number of years. The extension will provide an additional eight new gates for our passengers. This means a significant number of our passengers that would normally be coached to a remote stand will instead be able to board aircraft directly. The project will be complete and fully operational for summer ‘27.
Work started on site last summer with enabling works, delivered by PJ Hegarty. At the same time, we contracted Mace to conclude the design and planning for the project. Mace started main works in January; we have recently completed piling and are starting groundworks. They will be completing the project in 2026 to leave time for operational readiness to ensure an efficient and safe start to operations in 2027.
What were the main challenges involved in designing and delivering this extension, especially given that it’s being carried out in one of the world’s busiest airfields?
Logistics is a key challenge for the project given its central airfield location. One thing that we are very proud of at London Gatwick is that we have the world’s most efficient single runway operation. That means we cannot impact that operation in an unplanned manner. Even setting up the site was a challenge with extensive planning and enabling works required to divert taxiway Quebec and relocate the A380 stand. Once these works were complete, we could set up the site boundary fence.
We’re now in the Main Works delivery stage of the project and Mace are leading all day-to-day logistics that are essential for a successful construction project. For example, all labour and materials required to build the project need to clear security and then navigate the aerodrome without impacting our operation.
Aerodrome Safeguarding has been another challenge for the project to ensure that local radar is not impacted during construction. Finally, the extension interfaces with the existing operational Pier 6 where we will refurbish around 20 – 30m to ensure a seamless connection.
How are you integrating sustainability into the construction of the new pier, and can you explain some of the strategies being used to achieve the 52% saving in embodied carbon?
Throughout the process, we were able to conduct design revisions which saw the width of the building reduced. Relocating a service road facilitated a two-storey building, rather than three. These changes will deliver an approximate 40% saving in embodied carbon from the original design. We also targeted a further 20% reduction throughout the build, by moving to a hybrid steel and timber frame structure, re-designing ventilation systems to use less ductwork and plant, and changing finishes, and we are currently on track to achieve this.
With the project aiming for BREEAM ratings of “Excellent” and potentially “Outstanding,” what are some of the key sustainability features and certifications that you’re targeting?
Our target is an ‘excellent’ rating, with ‘outstanding’ for energy and water.
We are implementing a grey water recycling system, which is designed to capture and reuse 100% of rainwater via the fire main. We are also installing lowflow toilets and taps, and constructing the building to a passive standard. There will be little air leakage so it will require low levels of heating and cooling in operation.
The project will add eight new aircraft gates. Can you elaborate on how this will improve the passenger experience, particularly in terms of reducing reliance on remote aircraft stands?
When complete in 2027, eight new aircraft gates adjacent to the airport’s runway will enable seven and a half million passengers to alight and depart directly onto aircraft each year. These new gates will also remove the need to coach over 500,000 passengers to remote stands, saving 12,000 bus journeys a year.
What kind of collaborative efforts have you had with Mace, the appointed contractor, to ensure that the project stays on track and meets both environmental and operational goals?
We have a long history with Mace who built the original Pier 6 and also the Pier 6 link bridge. That relationship continues today, and they support us not only on Pier 6 but across a number of investments that we are making to improve the airport for our passengers.
Logistics is a key challenge for the project given its central airfield location. One thing that we are very proud of at London Gatwick is that we have the world’s most efficient single runway operation. That means we cannot impact that operation in an unplanned manner.
How does the extension tie into the broader vision for the airport, particularly in terms of the upcoming Northern Runway plans?
They are separate projects, and the expectation is that Pier 6 and its stands will be built and in operation ahead of major works taking place should we receive approval for our Northern Runway plans.
What role does innovation play in this project, particularly in addressing both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability?
We’ve aimed to keep the build simple and straightforward, given the complexity of its airfield location. There are a number of firsts for London Gatwick. It will be our first hybrid building and also the first time we have measured carbon through design and now into delivery. Solar at this scale is also new to Gatwick.
Could you share any specific measures or technologies being employed to ensure minimal disruption to ongoing airport operations during construction?
We had to plan extensively in terms of logistics management, the forming of the site, access to the site etc. with both Mace and PJ Hegarty, given the central airfield location. But a lot also comes down to the individual and their diligence in completing simple tasks like jet washing vehicle wheels. Obviously you
want to avoid debris on any site but this is especially important on a live airfield, where things can quickly become ‘FOD’ (Foreign Object Debris) which can be extremely dangerous to aircraft. So we have to be incredibly diligent. The project was designed to be built in this location so getting the Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) strategy right has been very important and something Mace led for us last year.
Finally, as the project progresses, how do you plan to engage stakeholders, including passengers and local communities, to ensure the project’s success and smooth integration with the airport’s long-term goals?
We engage with PAG – our Passenger Advisory Group, which provides critical feedback and recommendations on all aspects of our passenger experience. This will include tours in due course. We also engage extensively with our airlines, and
It will be our first hybrid building and also the first time we have measured carbon through design and now into delivery.
work with our operational colleagues to plan for the transition from construction in to operations. We expect this aspect to be taking place from late 2026 through to 2027 to ensure that the pier is in service for summer ‘27. Given the importance of getting this right, we have a secondee from the operation joining our team to focus on this specific challenge.
TACKLING THE HIDDEN THREATS TO UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE:
HOW PROACTIVE SOLUTIONS ENHANCE
UTILITY
VISIBILITY AND MITIGATE DISRUPTIONS
Every day, millions of people depend on an intricate web of unseen infrastructure to power their homes, provide clean water, and keep essential services running. Yet beneath our feet, shifting ground threatens to disrupt these critical networks, often without warning. Even a minor pipeline leak can trigger cascading failures, service outages, and frustrated customers. Here, Paul Garthwaite, UK Director (Infrastructure and Commercial) at ground engineering specialist Geobear, discusses how proactive maintenance enhances utility visibility by reducing disruptions, costs, and improving service reliability.
With the UK’s water supply network spanning over 300,000 miles and the wastewater system covering another 220,000 miles, the scale and complexity of maintaining this infrastructure is vital. As demand for reliable, sustainable services increases, utility companies face unprecedented challenges in ensuring operational resilience and future-proofing critical networks.
The impact of settlement on utilities infrastructure
Settlement — a downward movement of the ground due to soil compression or subsurface changes — poses a significant threat to these utilities.
Settlement is a natural but disruptive process where the ground beneath pipelines shifts, placing stress on pipe joints and leading to blockages, backups, leaks, and flooding.
As the soil compacts unevenly, pipes can develop “bellies,” low points where water and sewage accumulate. This disrupts the intended flow, causing pressure imbalances that can lead to pipe leaks. Persistent leaks can erode the surrounding sediment, gradually undermining the pipe’s foundation.
Environmental factors further intensify settlement risks. The 2022-2023 report from Thames Water shows how extreme temperatures exacerbate the problem, particularly in regions with high clay content.
During the summer of 2022, London experienced prolonged drought and record-breaking heat of 40 degrees Celsius. In response, the clay-heavy soil contracted, shrinking by up to 10 per cent in volume.
It is critical to address settlement proactively, in order to prevent such largescale disruptions.
This movement caused pipes to shift, crack and leak at an accelerated rate. As a result, Thames Water fell short of their 2022/23 leakage target. With rising maintenance costs and lost water supply, the financial impact was substantial and Thames Water fell short of its profit targets.
If left unaddressed, settlement can lead to large-scale disruptions. Burst pipes have the potential to cut off mains water supply to entire communities, causing extensive road closures and even forcing residents to relocate.
Damaged water and sewage pipes can also lead to sinkholes. In February 2025, a sinkhole opened in Godstone, Surrey, UK, causing the collapse of a 65-foot stretch of road and forcing the evacuation of 30 homes. Repairs are expected to take a year. Godstone sits on wellsorted, cross-bedded sands and weakly cemented sandstones from the Lower Cretaceous period, which are highly erodible.
According to British Geological Survey geologist Andrew Farrant, the sinkhole was likely caused by multiple factors, including a burst water main and the presence of an old sand mine near the site. Soon after, a second sinkhole appeared, further proving the dangers of delayed intervention.
It is critical to address settlement proactively, in order to prevent such large-scale disruptions. Early warning signs, such as ground depressions, must be monitored, particularly in vulnerable areas with soft soil or a history of flooding. Traditional methods for repairing damaged pipelines rely on excavation, which is time-consuming, disruptive, and carbon intensive.
Case Study
An alternative solution is geopolymer resin injection, which involves drilling small holes to inject the material into the ground. The material follows the path of least resistance, filling voids, compacting, and stabilising the soil. This process helps level and lift the ground, as well as stabilising the surrounding pipework.
This method has several advantages: it produces lower carbon emissions, requires lightweight equipment and minimises material use for reduced overall environmental impact. Additionally, it is significantly faster than excavation, which allows for rapid stabilisation with minimal disruptions to communities and infrastructure and potential cost savings.
A success story
A notable example of this approach’s effectiveness took place in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, UK. A road and its surrounding sewer system experienced significant settlement, which had been caused initially by flash flooding. Located in a busy town centre, severe ground settlement resulted in sections of road and sewer pipes dropping by 100 to 200 mm, compromising their structural integrity.
The flash flooding, combined with the area’s very loose ground conditions, caused the washout of unconsolidated soil around the pipe. As the surrounding soil weakened, sewer joints began to bow and fail, leading to further erosion and a cycle of leakage and ground loss. Traditional excavation was not a feasible solution due to the extensive disruptions it would cause, which would include the need for temporary works and prolonged road closures.
Faced with this challenge, Anglian Water, which supplies over seven
million customers across the East of England, sought an alternative approach. Given the site’s constraints, it turned to Geobear’s geopolymer injection technology, a method that stabilises the ground without the need for disruptive excavation.
Since this was the first time geopolymer technology had been used for permanent ground stabilisation beneath a sewer system, PLAXIS modelling was employed to predict the expected outcomes. PLAXIS is a specialised software used to analyse subsurface environments, including soil behaviour, rock formations, and overall ground stability.
During the design phase, Building Information Modelling (BIM) software was integrated to ensure precise injection
placement. BIM created a detailed 3D model of the settlement area and overlaid Geobear’s treatment plan, allowing for accurate injection positioning while preventing clashes with underground services. The integration of geopolymer injection design into a BIM model marks an industry first.
To restore stability, geopolymer resin was injected at depths to 7.5 meters, reinforcing the soil and realigning the pipeline. The treatment’s effectiveness was confirmed through post-injection standard penetration tests (SPT), which showed a significant increase in soil density from 0–1 (very loose) pretreatment, to 5–15 (medium) posttreatment. This threefold improvement ensured long-term stability and reduced the risk of future settlement.
A new approach to safeguarding utilities
The future of safeguarding utilities lies in proactive servicing. Periodic surveys can assess ground movement and pipeline stability, allowing for intervention before major issues arise. In areas with a history of settlement, particularly those with unconsolidated ground or high clay content, targeted treatment can be carried out in a matter of days, preventing months of disruption.
The ability of a utility company to respond effectively to settlement is a direct reflection of its visibility and reliability. Companies that prioritise proactive intervention, reduce disruption, and invest in modern solutions like geopolymer injection will be better positioned to maintain service continuity and public trust.
To learn how geopolymer technology is being used to safeguard utility infrastructure, visit its case studies page.
AMBITIOUS SCHEME TO CREATE WORLD-CLASS CULTURAL HUB BACK ON TRACK AFTER APPOINTMENT OF NEW CONTRACTOR
GRAHAM has been appointed as the new contractor to complete work on the City Centre Cultural Gateway (CCCG).
The scheme, housed within what was an IKEA store, will become a landmark destination in Coventry bringing together multiple local, regional and national partners across the creative and cultural sectors.
The appointment of GRAHAM has been welcomed by all project partners - Arts
Council England, the British Council, CV Life and Coventry University, which will occupy two floors of the building.
The project will see Coventry City Council working with major partners with each partner bringing a unique approach and industry expertise to Coventry.
GRAHAM will be starting work on the site from Spring 2025 with construction expected to be completed by Summer 2026.
SD RECRUITING FOR 40 JOBS IN THE COSMETIC REPAIRS SECTOR
SD Team, the UK’s leading cosmetic repair and sealants company, is looking to expand its workforce to support ongoing growth in its regional offices nationwide.
The roles on offer will primarily be based in cosmetic repairs services although there will also be availability for candidates with sealant application experience, with a number of jobs providing opportunities for worldwide travel.
SD Team has been involved in a number of significant projects in recent months, including Tarporley War Memorial Hospital in Cheshire, the Candleriggs Square development in Glasgow and the renovation of one of Royal Caribbean’s leading passenger cruise ships, Voyager of the Seas.
BEARD CONSTRUCTION BUILDS ON SUCCESS WITH RECORD YEAR
Family-owned construction firm Beard has unveiled details of the most successful trading period in its 133-year history, with turnover rising by 10% and approaching £200m.
The strong performance was underpinned by the completion of 43 projects from its offices in Bristol, Guildford, Oxford, Southampton and Swindon.
Investing in people has continued to be a core focus for Beard, with new and enhanced training programmes developed and delivered.
Beard also formalised its approach to supporting communities, with social value coordinators appointed in each region to support the firm’s charitable, developmental, and sustainability ambitions.
During 2024, Beard was also amongst the first cohort to be awarded the Fair Payment Code bronze award, which replaced the Prompt Payment Code in December 2024, demonstrating its commitment to supporting supply chain partners.
Fraser Johns
Drainage & Plumbing
“COST-EFFECTIVE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS:
THE SMART SPECIFICATION APPROACH”
Smart Specification for Superior Drainage Systems ULMA’s Engineering Office
In modern construction, achieving efficient drainage without inflating costs is a critical challenge. ULMA addresses this through Smart Specification, an approach that combines hydraulic performance with economic efficiency. This is supported by ULMA’s Engineering Office, a team with over 30 years of experience in drainage solutions. They meticulously analyze each project’s unique requirements, perform precise hydraulic calculations, and provide comprehensive documentation to recommend drainage solutions that are both effective and budget-conscious.
An example of Smart Specification in action is the drainage system implemented at the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) headquarters in Gogarburn, Edinburgh. They needed a new drainage system in their visitor car park. After a comprehensive evaluation by ULMA’s Engineering Office, the Kompaqdrain City 100 channels were selected, leading to the installation of 1,075 linear meters throughout the car park.
User Safety and Accessibility
The Kompaqdrain City 100 channels are engineered with narrow collection slots, enhancing accessibility and mobility for pedestrians, including those with reduced mobility. Their monolithic design integrates the grating into a single, robust piece, eliminating risks associated with displaced components. This ensures a safer environment for all users.
Reliable Availability
ULMA’s global network ensures that their drainage solutions are readily available to meet project timelines. For the RBS project in Edinburgh, ULMA provided prompt delivery and support, recognizing the importance of adhering to construction schedules and the value of responsive collaboration.
Embracing Innovation in Drainage
By adopting ULMA’s Smart Specification approach, contractors can effectively reduce cost overruns while enhancing performance and safety. Innovation in drainage doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel; sometimes, it’s about selecting alternatives that offer
tangible benefits and make a real difference.
ULMA invites industry professionals to explore these innovative solutions that combine efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
For a visual overview of the advantages offered by ULMA’s Engineering Office, you can watch the video in the QR:
By adopting ULMA’s Smart Specification approach, contractors can effectively reduce cost overruns while enhancing performance and safety.
For more information visit: www.ulmaarchitectural.co.uk
& Plumbing
SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE FOR A CHANGING CLIMATE
By Andrew Leah, General Manager of Duraproducts
The start of 2025 has already presented a number of extreme climate change events across the globe. From freezing temperatures gripping Europe and devastating fires raging in Los Angeles to the intensifying impacts of La Niña, the urgency of climate action has never been more apparent.
This follows 2024 which acted as a reminder of the escalating climate crisis, marking a significant milestone in global warming. It was reported as the hottest year on record, surpassing the critical 1.5C global warming threshold. This alarming development prompted a warning from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who declared a ‘climate breakdown’, issuing an urgent call to action for all nations to drastically reduce their emissions in 2025.
To achieve this, the construction industry’s significant contribution to
greenhouse gas emissions and the use of resources must not be ignored. Sustainability must be integrated into every aspect of infrastructure and construction projects as a priority. By embracing environmentally friendly practices, green construction can play a pivotal role in mitigating the negative impacts of climate change and limiting greenhouse gas emissions.
In support, government policies regarding green construction have evolved significantly in the hope of decelerating the devasting effects of climate change. Twenty years ago, when Duraproducts was founded, the conversations by policymakers lacked follow-up actions. Today, governments
across the UK, Ireland, and the EU are setting clear regulations, solidifying the commitment to sustainability. Within this, the rise of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and Lifecycle Assessments (LCAs) provide the supply chain with standardised quantitative measurements of what sustainability looks like.
With the unpredictable and unstable weather forecasts that climate change brings, drainage units not only need to be sustainably produced, but highly effective to deal with worsening rainfall events.
At Duraproducts, our priority is manufacturing products with a lower carbon footprint than traditional materials. Duradrain, our recycled polymer combined kerb and drainage unit, is specifically designed to handle large amounts of surface runoff and is made with energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
The benefits of using recycled polymer drainage products lie in their physical integrity and longevity. The cellular structure has been reported by developers to drastically reduce postconstruction re-fit of units, meaning that large areas can be drained quickly and safely to reduce flooding risk, while the use of resources is kept to a minimum with little to no need of producing replacement units.
The increased use of high recycled content across the industry also facilitates sustained demand for recycled materials and contributes to a circular economy. Products that are reusable and recyclable at the end of life enable a truly closed-loop system that minimises waste and maximises the use of recycled materials.
By being an industry leader and promoting sustainable construction, Duraproducts sets a precedent for the standards companies should strive to provide, demonstrating that environmentally friendly practices can be successfully incorporated into the entire product lifecycle.
Read more here: www.duraproducts.co.uk
WATER USAGE WILL BE KEY IN FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
The longer-term environmental impact of the UKs water deficit could cause further damage to the natural environment and could restrict future development. Combining the increasing Per Capital Consumption (PCC) with the UKs growing population means that by 2050 the UK water deficit is predicted to be 5000 mega litres per day.
Future water plans include transporting water across the country and building new reservoirs. However, 65% of the water deficit will have to be met by a reduction in consumption. To help achieve this, all major water companies have been set PCC reduction targets of up to 11%.
At the recent Waterwise Conference, Helen Wakenham, Director of Water, Environment Agency stated that water efficiency ‘should be embedded into the plans we have for housing’. She continued ‘if water efficiency is embedded in our homes and our products it becomes easy to do’.
Achieving PCC targets by building water efficient homes
OFWAT have recognised that water efficient homes are the key to reducing consumption and have established basic standards for new build homes. In all new properties, developers will be given financial rewards for designing in basic water conservation measures, known as the Common Environmental Incentive including low volume dual flush toilets, low flow taps and showers and water efficient washing machines and dishwashers. For achieving these standards developers will receive a rebate of £172 per property.
Water companies have the option to introduce enhanced standards for additional incentives and United Utilities are amongst the first to embrace this.
From April 2025 additional financial incentives are available for the installation of a whole site flow regulator. These modulate the flow entering customer premises, so limiting the amount used by the customer. Without a degradation of service or any behavioural change, there is a ‘natural’ reduction in consumption. As these products are fitted to the main water supply, and not each individual outlet they remove any risk of consumer interference and ensure that minimum standards of water supply are maintained as specified within the Water Industry Act and Water Fittings Regulations.
Groundbreaker – the high reward solution
In any property with a meter
Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo®can be installed between the water meter and manifold in any water meter enclosure. So, meeting the enhanced incentive standard, and receiving the additional rebate of £100 for an outlay of a maximum of £30.
Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo® has several flow modulation ranges are available which enable the perfect balance between usage reduction and service provision, and all meet or exceed United Utilities required flow rate. As an added benefit, the Groundbreaker’s LoFlo Check Valve systems have the unique property of providing whole site protection against contamination by back flow (up to fluid category 2) as standard, so protecting the water network.
Groundbreaker’s NRv2 LoFlo has several flow modulation ranges are available which enable the perfect balance between usage reduction and service provision, and all meet or exceed United Utilities required flow rate.
For further details please contact Groundbreaker Systems at www.groundbreaker.co.uk
• Steve Leigh is a Fellow of the Institute of Water and Managing Director of Groundbreaker Systems and was winner of the Home Builder Federation’s “Utility Individual of the Year for 2016”.
• Groundbreaker Systems won the HBF’s ‘Utility of the Year’ in 2018.
• Groundbreaker Systems are 2023 winners of the Building & Facilities News as Company of the Year for Innovation in Sustainable Water Management.
People On The Move
LANTRA ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF NEXT CEO
Lantra has announced the appointment of Nick Juba as its new CEO. Nick will be joining the business in June.
Nick joins Lantra with a wealth of experience as a Director, Chief Executive and Non-Executive Director, starting his career at the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority before progressing to become a consultant to the European Commission.
Nick then worked in the Higher Education sector, leading the University of the Arts Awarding Body where he drove a successful growth strategy. He then held positions as Chief Executive in Further Education, before moving to his current post at Capita Group Plc where he has been Director of Learning since 2020
overseeing the delivery of all shorebased education and training for the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines.
Lantra continues to work proactively with the land-based and environment sector to ensure that skills needs are met through the development of highquality training and qualifications.
PICK EVERARD APPOINTS NEW ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR TO LEAD SOUTH WEST EXPANSION
Pick Everard has expanded its structural engineering presence in the South West, welcoming a new associate director to spearhead the team.
Ricardo Sequeira brings more than two decades of experience to the firm, having led complex projects across high-rise residential and commercial
developments, and is a chartered member of the Institution of Structural Engineers.
His expertise includes largescale refurbishments, intricate substructures, and projects involving historic or sensitive infrastructure –skills that are particularly valuable in the region’s diverse built environment.
Based at the firm’s city-centre office in Bristol, Ricardo will oversee project delivery from feasibility through to completion, ensuring technical excellence and efficiency. He will also play a key role in client engagement and business development, further expanding the firm’s footprint in the region.
Ricardo’s appointment will strengthen the firm’s ability to deliver multidisciplinary projects, ensuring clients benefit from a collaborative approach that integrates structural, civil, and building services alongside project and cost management.
LAND TEAM GROWTH SIGNALS AMBITIONS FOR WILLIAM DAVIS HOMES
Loughborough-based William Davis Homes has welcomed a trio of key appointments to its East Midlands land team to support its plans for growth.
Reece Richiardi has joined the team as Senior Land Manager, working on the acquisition of open-market sites with existing planning consent, while Harry White, joining as Senior Strategic Land Manager, has been appointed to lead the housebuilder’s longer-term land acquisitions.
Working alongside Reece and Harry is the company’s new Head of Design, Mike Barnett, who has been working on an ambitious project to design a new range of housetypes for the developer. The first of the new homes are set to be built on William Davis developments later this year.
Harry, Reece and Mike bring significant experience from roles within regional and national housebuilders and said they were drawn to the vision which William Davis’ group land director Sarah Whetton had for the future of the team.
William Davis will launch a flagship development at Garendon Country Park in Loughborough in May, while further developments are set to open in Hathern, Leicestershire, and Burton Green, near Coventry.
Harry White, Mike Barnett and Reece Richiardi
Ricardo Sequeira
Nick Juba
People On The Move
Jont Cole
JONT COLE JOINS DPR AS MANAGING DIRECTOR
DPR has announced the appointment of Jont Cole as Managing Partner; with a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in strategic leadership, business transformation, and operational excellence, Jont brings a wealth of experience that will strengthen DPR’s capabilities and position the firm for continued growth.
Jont Cole joins DPR following an impressive career in professional services, focusing on real estate, sustainability and technology. He has served in key leadership roles at JLL, including Global Strategic Program Director for Value & Risk Advisory, where he led the transformation of JLL’s valuation businesses into a single global service line. He has been the inaugural Chief Operating Officer at LandTech and Mathys & Squire LLP, where he played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth, enhancing operational efficiencies, and expanding business capabilities.
With an Executive MBA from London Business School, Jont has a proven track record of leading high-performing teams and executing strategic plans that drive commercial success. His expertise in scaling businesses, delivering operational efficiencies, and fostering innovation aligns perfectly with DPR’s mission to provide best-in-class advisory services to the built environment.
KEY LEADERSHIP PROMOTION AND NEW HIRE TO DRIVE GROWTH AT SAFESITE
Paul Goossens has been promoted from operations manager to operations director at SafeSite Facilities.
With a strong track record of driving operational improvements and mentoring staff, Paul has been instrumental in shaping the company’s strategic direction.
As operations director, Paul will lead efforts to refine operational structures, identify skills gaps and implement targeted training programmes.
He will also take an overview of the company’s financial performance, overseeing cost-saving initiatives while enhancing productivity.
In addition to Paul’s promotion, SafeSite Security Solutions is welcoming Shane Hall as its new business development manager.
Shane brings a decade of sales experience, with a strong background in commercial cleaning, pest control and security services. He specialises in guarding, CCTV, temporary alarm systems and physical security solutions.
His appointment will strengthen SafeSite Security Solutions’ relationships within the social housing sector in particular, and his expertise in client relations and problem-solving will support the company’s expanding reach.
DAVID WALKDEN APPOINTED MD OF MEP HIRE
MEP Hire, the UK’s market leading building services rental specialist, has appointed David Walkden as its new Managing Director.
Previously Managing Director of TPA, MEP Hire’s sister company at Vp plc, Walkden brings over 20 years’ experience working in the rental sector.
Walkden’s appointment comes as MEP Hire celebrates its 30th year of trading during 2025. Founded in 1995 in Glasgow, specialising in tooling for commercial Mechanical & Electrical and Plumbing installers; MEP Hire now offers a nation-wide network of branches and stocks over 40,000 Mechanical & Electrical tools and accessories, as well as over 7,900 Low Level Access Machines.
Paul Goossens
Shane Hall
David Walkden
Heating, Ventilation & Insulation
URGENT NEED FOR QUALITY RETROFIT WORK AMID
GOVERNMENT’S
‘WARM HOMES’ PLAN
The UK government has recently reaffirmed its commitment to making homes warmer and safer by pledging £6.6 billion to its ‘Warm Homes’ plan. This ambitious initiative aims to retrofit five million homes over the next five years, with the funding designated to upgrade insulation, reduce heat loss, combat damp and mould, and improve overall health. Additionally, the ‘Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund’ allocates further resources to social housing landlords, enabling them to retrofit their homes to meet these high standards.
However, Panorama’s recent investigation, Britain’s Mouldy Homes, revealed, there are serious concerns about the prevalence of damp and mould issues in housing and how they are being dealt with by landlords and local authorities. According to the BBC, over half a million tenants have made complaints about their landlords in the last seven years; of these complaints over 90% resulted in no action.
Experts in wet and electric underfloor heating for over 35 years
When it comes to new homes and buildings, we help design, supply, install and commission the right underfloor heating.
We’ve wet and electric solutions helping to build for the future, today!
That’s why Gaia is the name developers trust.
While the allocation of government funding paints the picture of positive action to reduce these numbers, there are questions about the effectiveness and safety of previous governmentfunded retrofit schemes.
Recent inspections have uncovered widespread poor-quality solid wall insulation, leading to the suspension of 39 businesses. These installers are now being held responsible for rectifying the substandard work, with affected households not being asked to pay for the flawed installations.
With the government’s pledge and the public spotlight on the ongoing risks of inadequate retrofitting, it’s clear that the right action must be taken to safeguard the future of the nation’s homes and the health of their inhabitants.
To find out more about ARC’s Retrofit Eaves Insulator, visit www.arcbuildingsolutions.co.uk.
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Health & Safety THE TOP RISKS TO HEALTH AND SAFETY IDENTIFIED BY FMS
Health and safety are paramount in facilities, especially in the construction sector. Hazards like cracks, holes and slippery surfaces can endanger team members, set important projects back, and increase costs if damage is done to machinery or products.
Research conducted by Watco revealed the top risks identified by facilities managers (FMs) that impact safety in building and construction. Let’s take a closer look at what they said.
What were the top risks to health and safety identified by FMs in construction?
When surveying FMs, multiple factors impacting health and safety were identified, including the following:
Lack
of general maintenance and a backlog of repairs
A lack of general maintenance and backlogged repairs were cited as a health and safety concern by 22% of FMs. The increased risk of worsening issues like cracks in floors or broken step edges can lead to minor slips or trips, but they can also cause serious accidents and lead to costly legal claims.
So, with a further 40% of FMs in the sector saying that they carry out most repair and maintenance jobs reactively rather than proactively, these risks need to be mitigated. Using resources like floor inspection checklists, as well as
Waterproofing and damp
According to 16% of surveyed FMs in the construction sector, waterproofing and damp are listed as a top risk to health.
undertaking regular risk assessments can help prevent serious incidents before they occur.
According to 16% of surveyed FMs in the construction sector, waterproofing and damp are listed as a top risk to health. And there’s no wonder. Damp and mould create an unhealthy working environment and can trigger serious health and respiratory problems for team members exposed.
To combat this on old or new floors, Watco’s Epoxy Damp Proof Membrane holds back rising damp where a damp proof membrane is either missing or defective. Construction FMs and their teams can then rest assured knowing that they are protected from the harmful effects of damp.
Wet and slippery surfaces
What may appear to be a clean and dry floor, stairway or ramp, could in fact present a greater risk of an accident than a hole or crack. And with 20% of FMs pinning this as a top risk factor to health and safety, it is important to address correctly.
A surface being clean and dry doesn’t necessarily mean it isn’t slippery, and that’s where anti-slip paints and coatings can help. For areas prone to wetness or oil exposure, Watco’s Safety Grip can prevent accidents, particularly when teams could be handling or moving heavy loads.
PROMAT SECURES GOLD CERTIFICATION FOR LOW VOCS IN PASSIVE FIRE PROTECTION PRODUCTS
Passive fire protection specialist Promat has secured Indoor Air Comfort Gold certification in Eurofins VOC testing to demonstrate its fire protection boards support a healthy indoor environment and sustainability-led building design.
All of the company’s standard calcium silicate and mineral bound fire protection boards have now been certified under the leading global scheme that measures emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to prove the product fulfils low emissions requirements.
Tested to EN 16516, the third-party certification also demonstrates that the products, which are used to create structural protection and fire resistant compartments in buildings, comply with leading sustainability certifications such as BREEAM and LEED.
As part of its ‘6 steps to CLEARCHANGE’ programme, Promat has set out all of its sustainability targets to provide transparent aims and achievements. This includes supporting sustainable design by actively contributing to BREEAM, LEED and WELL Building Standard projects.
GLOBAL SAFETY AND HEALTH CONSTRUCTION COORDINATORS UNITE AT APS/ ISHCCO EDINBURGH CONGRESS
The Association for Project Safety (APS) and the International Safety and Health Construction Coordinators Organization (ISHCCO) recently hosted a landmark international congress in Edinburgh, bringing together construction safety experts from across Europe.
The gathering focused on raising competency standards, tackling emerging risks, and strengthening global collaboration in construction health and safety co-ordination.
The event provided a platform for leading professionals to discuss the latest regulatory updates, technological advancements,
global challenges, building a resilient future and best practices in safety coordination.
The key themes discussed included issues around competence and compliance in a Post-Grenfell Landscape.
There were also discussions around New and Emerging Risks - beyond known hazards such as asbestos and silica, the event highlighted new occupational risks and the impact of climate change on construction safety.
Speakers at the Congress also reinforced the role of technology, particularly on how digital innovation – BIM and emerging technologies, can enhance health and safety processes and improve risk management. The joint Congress underlined the importance of sharing best practices and fostering international collaboration to advance construction safety.
GREATER INSTALLATION STANDARDS WITH NEW INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO SERIES
Allegion UK, has expanded its library of customer support materials with new installation videos for its 2003 and 2003V surface mounted door closers.
The newly published video series provides customers with an illustrative set of installation and adjustment
instructions for door mount pull, transom mount and parallel arm mount fixings across its leading product lines.
With plans to further develop the video library to include step-by-step installation guidance for the Briton 2130B overhead closer, the company will shortly complete a suite of digitally curated support materials, which includes technical datasheets, product certifications, fixing templates and downloadable service and maintenance instructions.
To view, visit: https://briton.co.uk/en/ documentlibrary/installation_videos. html.
HYGIENE SHOWERS VS SAFETY SHOWERS ON CONSTRUCTION SITES
By James Hamilton, Global Engineering Manager at Hughes Safety Showers
Construction sites are among the most hazardous environments, with risks ranging from accidents to exposure to toxic substances. Annually, 13,000 deaths in the UK are linked to exposure to dangerous materials.
Safety showers are an essential (but often overlooked) part of emergency preparedness on construction sites.
The Importance of Safety Showers
There are risks from materials like solvents, adhesives, paints and silica dust on a construction site. These substances can lead to skin burns and rashes. Immediate response to such exposure is essential, and safety showers provide a first line of defence to reduce the impact of these hazards.
Safety showers provide immediate decontamination when workers face exposure to hazardous substances such as chemicals or burns. These showers should be installed within 10 seconds reach of hazardous areas to quickly wash off harmful substances from skin, eyes and clothing, preventing further injury.
Key Benefits of Safety Showers
Immediate response to chemical exposure
Safety showers are designed for rapid decontamination. When hazardous substances are spilt, fast action is necessary to minimise harm.
Reduction of health risks
The faster harmful substances are removed, the lesser the chance of lasting damage.
Hygiene vs Safety Showers
While both hygiene and safety showers contribute to worker health and safety, they serve distinct purposes.
Hygiene showers are designed for personal cleanliness, removing nontoxic substances like dirt and minor irritants. These showers are typically found in changing rooms and are not meant for emergencies.
Safety showers are specifically meant for emergency decontamination of hazardous substances.
They are designed to provide a high flow rate of water to flush away dangerous chemicals quickly. The provision of tepid water (16-38 °C) is recommended to ensure that the shower does not worsen injuries by causing shock or additional harm, allowing users to remain under the water flow for at least 15 minutes.
Choosing the Right Safety Shower
When selecting a safety shower, several factors should be considered to ensure it meets the site’s needs:
Location and accessibility
Safety showers should be within 10 seconds reach of hazardous areas to ensure rapid access in emergencies.
Water pressure and flow
The shower must provide enough water pressure to cover large areas of the body, ensuring quick and effective decontamination.
Water temperature
Tepid water is essential to prevent further injury and ensure workers’ comfort during decontamination.
Durability and design
The shower must be robust enough to withstand harsh construction site conditions and be simple to operate under pressure.
Ease of use and maintenance
Safety showers should be intuitive to operate, especially in emergencies, and require minimal maintenance.
Compliance with regulations
Safety showers must meet regulations such as EN15154 and ANSI Z358.1 to ensure they perform effectively in emergencies.
Safety showers provide a vital line of defence against the immediate dangers of exposure to hazardous chemicals and other harmful substances. By providing a quick and effective decontamination, safety showers can protect workers.
SUPPORTING A BRIGHTER
TOMORROW: OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH RAINBOWS CHILDREN’S HOSPICE
At Element Passive Fire Protection, we believe that building safer spaces goes hand in hand with building stronger communities. That’s why we’re proud to announce Rainbows Children’s Hospice as our official charity partner.
Rainbows provides vital care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families across the East Midlands. As a member of their Business Club, we are joining a network of likeminded organisations committed to making a lasting impact. Our partnership will see us take part in joint fundraising initiatives throughout the year, helping to raise both awareness and essential funds for the hospice.
In addition, for every client feedback we receive, we will donate £50 directly to Rainbows. It’s our way of turning valuable insights into meaningful support for those who need it most. This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to giving back to the community and supporting causes that truly make a difference.
Enhancing Safety in Education: Fire Door Surveys for GDST
This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to giving back to the community and supporting causes that truly make a difference.
Element Passive Fire Protection recently completed a significant project for the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), one of the UK’s leading networks of independent girls’ schools. Tasked with conducting comprehensive fire door surveys across multiple school buildings nationwide, our team ensured that each site met the highest standards of fire safety compliance.
Fire doors are a critical line of defence in any building, but especially in educational environments where the safety of students and staff is paramount. Our work with GDST not only helps protect lives but also supports the Trust’s commitment to creating secure, nurturing learning spaces.
This project highlights the essential role passive fire protection plays in the education sector. By proactively assessing and improving fire safety infrastructure, we’re helping schools meet legal obligations while giving peace of mind to staff, pupils, and parents alike. At Element, we’re proud to be contributing to safer educational spaces where young minds can thrive.
www.element-pfp.co.uk
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THE ROLE OF ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS IN ENHANCING BUILDING SAFETY
By Jane Elvins, Specification and Business Development Manager at
In today’s environment, ensuring building safety has become a top priority for businesses. Access control systems - including speed gates, turnstiles, and revolving security doors - are instrumental in enhancing the safety and security of modern structures such as office buildings, airports, data centers, stadiums, and gyms.
When reviewing manufactures of these systems, it’s imperative to ensure they are adhering to the EN 17352:2022 standard, which specifies the requirements and test methods for power operated pedestrian entrance control equipment and the level of safety to be expected.
Let’s now explore how access control systems can play a crucial role in building safety:
Preventing Unauthorised Access: The primary function of access control systems is to prevent unauthorised access to restricted areas within a building. Speed gates, turnstiles, and revolving security doors work by allowing only individuals with valid credentialssuch as access cards, biometric scans, or keypads - to enter. This prevents unauthorised persons from entering sensitive or secure areas, such as offices, server rooms, or executive floors. Speed gates, in particular, are widely used in high-traffic areas, offering both speed and security by allowing authorised individuals to pass and stopping anyone unauthorised. Turnstiles provide a more robust physical barrier, ensuring that people can only enter one at a time, reducing the risk of tailgating or unauthorised group entry.
Mitigating Security Threats: Access control systems help mitigate a wide range of security threats, such as theft, espionage, or vandalism, by restricting access to sensitive areas. In a corporate building, this could mean protecting proprietary data in a server room or safeguarding valuable physical assets. By controlling who enters and exits a building, access control systems also reduce the potential for workplace violence and other physical threats.
Monitoring and Audit Trails: Another significant advantage is the ability to
GEZE UK
create detailed audit trails. Every time someone enters or exits a building, the system records the event. This data can be reviewed later, providing valuable insights into who accessed particular areas and when. For organisations, this means they can monitor employee movement, track incidents, and ensure compliance with security protocols.
Enhancing User Experience and Operational Efficiency: Access control systems not only improve security but also enhance users experience. By allowing seamless, frictionless access to authorised individuals, these systems reduce the need for manual checks or queues. This is especially valuable in high-traffic areas where efficiency is key.
Cost Savings in the Long Run: While the initial cost of installing an access control system might seem significant, the longterm benefits outweigh the investment. By reducing the risk of theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access, building owners and managers can save money on repairs, replacements, labour costs and insurance premiums.
GEZE Solution: PACE (Pedestrian Access Control Equipment) – Using TiSO product technology
These systems are designed to manage and control access for individuals, commonly used in locations such as data centers, airports, train stations, stadiums, and other public spaces or areas with heightened security needs. You can choose from various options, including speed gates, turnstiles, or revolving security doors. We offer the ideal solution for a wide range of requirements. All products are manufactured in strict compliance with international standards and meet all modern, quality, safety, design and usability requirements, such as EN 17352:2022.
To find out more, scan the QR code.
Website: www.geze.co.uk/en
Email: info.uk@geze.com
GEZE UK is a world leading manufacturer and installer of state-of-theart door, window and access control systems, offering an extensive portfolio of products suitable for a range of industries.
DATA CENTERS AIRPORTS EDUCATION STADIUMS RETAIL HOTELS GYMS OFFICES
GEZE PACE Range
Automatic Revolving Doors
Access control systems - including speed gates, turnstiles, and revolving security doors - are instrumental in enhancing the safety and security of modern structures. In an age where efficiency, sustainability, and user experience are paramount in building design, automatic revolving doors emerge as a compelling choice.
The perfect access control system for a range of buildings!
Discover more solutions for:
Revo.PRIMEsleek and modern with a discreet 75mm canopy height!
Swing Doors Sliding Doors Revolving Doors Windows Glass Partition Walls Access Control and Safety Building Automation
View our RIBA approved CPDs
Check out our full product range
SOLAR’S ‘ROOFTOP REVOLUTION’ CAN ENERGISE - NOT IMPERILCONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY
By Mohamed Gaafar, CEO and Co-Founder of GRYD Energy
The clean energy transition has been steadily building momentum for years now, but this year solar’s ‘rooftop revolution’ is set to make particularly big political and economic waves. So, how will the construction industry rise to the occasion in 2025 and take advantage of the opportunity that the solar movement presents?
After years of debate and indecision, in 2025 the government will finally implement the Future Homes Standard, which will require new homes in England to produce 75–80% fewer carbon emissions. Details of the new regulations are yet to be confirmed; however the government has indicated they could mandate that low-carbon technologies such as solar panels and heat pumps are incorporated into all new homes.
Coupled with the new Warm Homes Plan, also due to be implemented in 2025, the construction industry is on the frontline of significant changes to prepare Britain’s housing stock for a zero-carbon future.
Many in the industry once regarded the Part L building requirements - Future Homes Standard’s predecessor - as just one more financial pressure and an inconvenient check box exercise; and did as much as they could to avoid it before it came into force.
In 2025, construction leaders must focus on understanding the investment required to move in lockstep with the green energy transition and not be left behind.
The Future Homes Standard will certainly bring challenges for buildersas new regulatory measures do for any sector. But the requirements outlined aren’t as intimidating or capitalintensive as they might first seeminnovative solutions are out there.
At GRYD Energy, we work with developers and housebuilders to deploy smart solar and battery systems onto
Mohamed Gaafar, CEO and Co-Founder of GRYD Energy
homes at zero hardware cost to them, ensuring their housing developments are built for a net zero future - and won’t have to be retrofitted with the right technology in a matter of years.
Beyond the anticipated regulatory changes, shifting consumer trends will also impact construction. Homeowners don’t just want to live more sustainably - they’ve seen the demonstrable benefits of renewables and how this technology can shield them from energy price fluctuations and volatility in the wholesale market.
We’re seeing a notable uptick in demand for ‘behind the meter’ home renewables, such as solar panels and battery storage systems, that allow homeowners to generate and store
energy on their own premises.
These are increasingly intelligent systems that are optimised to work in tandem with other home clean energy devices like air source heat pumps and electric vehicles. Developers are taking notice of the trend and housebuilders must themselves be ready to respond to the demand, which is only set to accelerate in 2025.
While construction leaders adapt to these regulatory and commercial shifts, the valuation industry will grapple with how to update models to reflect the added value that onsite renewable systems such as solar deliver.
Some research shows that the benefits of a solar installation can increase the value of a UK home by up to 6.8%. However, the benefits of solar and other renewables are spread over a long period of time. In many cases, multiple homebuyers will benefit from the same clean energy systems as a property is bought and sold over the decades-long life cycle of that technology.
Updating valuation methods to accurately assess solar and other clean energy technologies is therefore a complex challenge. In the effort to embrace the renewables transition, we must avoid creating inflationary valuation models that needlessly push up housing prices and corner renewables as a ‘premium’ home feature. Given that much of the value derived from renewable technology is in energy bill savings, how this ‘premium’ is amortised for multiple homeowners must ensure those savings are not eroded if we are to democratise the benefits of solar for all Brits.
2025 will pose challenges for construction but also a host of economic opportunities. Innovators in the space are developing cutting-edge solutions that can enable everyone - from housebuilder to homeowner - to benefit from more renewables deployment and pave the way for Britain’s zero-carbon future. Let’s do it once and do it right.
THE PROCUREMENT ACT, SOCIAL VALUE AND SMES –A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN?
By Will Campbell, social value engagement lead at Loop
The new procurement era is now here; the move from MEAT to MAT is set to benefit both suppliers and procurers in relation to social value efforts, being underpinned by Procurement Policy Note (PPN) 002. But what does this mean under the new regulations – and is there an open door for SMEs?
The Procurement Act has been introduced to create a more straightforward, flexible, and transparent commercial system. With the new legislation, procurement is no longer a process driven solely by cost; it is now a tool for delivering long-term social value.
We are leaving an era in which price is the only real concern and are now in a time when keeping social value at the top of the agenda will be essential to procurement.
The NPPS inherently links to social value
The National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) inherently links to social value by emphasising the broader impact of public sector spending beyond just cost efficiency, there is a clear connection with the key drive for ‘value for money’. Suppliers will be required to demonstrate their contributions to areas such as the local economy, job creation, and fair working conditions.
We are leaving an era in which price is the only real concern and are now in a time when keeping social value at the top of the agenda will be essential to procurement.
Suppliers will be required to demonstrate their contributions to areas such as the local economy, job creation, and fair working conditions.
It strengthens commitments to net zero targets, ethical business practices, and community wellbeing, ensuring that procurement decisions all lead to a fairer, greener, and more inclusive society. Elsewhere, it reinforces procurement’s role in supporting community safety and social mobility, while encouraging suppliers to recruit from disadvantaged groups, support skills development, and address regional disparities.
This means that businesses must go beyond simply delivering a servicethey must actively support community development and sustainability goals.
PPN 002: Taking account of social value
It was the release of PPN 002 that ties everything closer to social valuerepresenting an important shift in how public sector procurement is viewed, formalising social value as a criterion in the process. Additionally, PPN 003 sees updates to the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 to bring the terminology in line with the new Procurement Act.
By integrating social value into the procurement process, the government is signalling that it recognises the importance of considering the longterm benefits and outcomes. A positive aspect of this policy is that it encourages suppliers to not just compete on cost and quality, but also on how they can create wider social outcomes.
This could potentially lead to more innovative solutions where suppliers go beyond simply fulfilling the contractual requirements and actively contribute to improving local communities and their specific needs.
However, a potential challenge could be the subjective nature of evaluating social value. Unlike cost and quality, social value can be harder to measure consistently across contracts and sectors, with multiple measurement frameworks out there. It will be important to ensure consistency in how different departments or contracting authorities manage their approach in taking account of the additional social and economic benefits achieved from the delivery of their contracts.
MEAT to MAT
The move from MEAT to MAT most obviously removes the ‘E’ – standing for ‘economically’ – a move that further represents the move away from lowest cost to best value. More subtly, it is going to create a heightened focus on leveraging procurement as a facilitator for social impact.
This has been the indicated direction of travel within the built environment sector for a while, but this directive to central government around procurement is likely to firmly set the course for the wider industry. Contracting authorities are going to have more autonomy and choice when assessing tenders and suppliers will be provided with more opportunities to operate in the public sector because price is not the only determining factor in awarding contracts.
One of the opportunities now the new regime is in place is for everyone involved in procurement to fully embrace social value and make it central in the creation of positive outcomes. This includes wellrecognised national suppliers through to SMEs and VCSEs – which should be competing for and winning more contracts if the act’s goals of opening public procurement to new entrants is fully realised.
Social value software can also support the MAT agenda as they provide the most effective way to capture and report social value, while also contributing to continuous evaluation and improvement.
Unlocking the door for SMEs?
PPN 001: ‘SME and VCSE procurement spend targets’ was released just before
the go-live of the Procurement Act, outlining the requirement for central government departments to set targets for SME procurement spend. What this didn’t specify was a mandatory percentage or amount when it comes to that spend – and this lack of defined target could lead to variability in how different departments approach their SME spend goals.
Without a standardised target, departments may set targets based on different internal priorities, which in turn could lead to inconsistent outcomes. It may be more beneficial for central government to have a consistent target or a clear framework to ensure departments do not fall short of promoting SME participation in government contracts.
This being said, some procurers will no doubt see the lack of standardised target or percentage as a benefit that allows them to be appropriately flexible. Rather than imposing a ‘one size fits all’ target, this approach would allow each department to tailor its objectives to its specific needs and the nature of the procurement is handles.
Transparency barriers?
A concern does remain around the increased administrative burden that the new act – and embedding social value into procurement – may bring to deliver the intended transparency agenda. While prioritising social, economic, and environmental benefits is essential, some organisations particularly SMEs and voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSEs) may struggle to meet the increased reporting requirements and demonstrate their social value impact effectively. This could create barriers to entry for smaller businesses, despite the government’s intention to level the playing field.
Now live, the Procurement Act offers not only a unique opportunity to redefine public procurement, but also for procurement processes to add to society and make a difference. At a time when the purse strings are tight, by keeping social value at the top of the agenda, the public sector can work towards every penny being spent in a way that delivers meaningful benefit for communities, businesses, local and national economies, and the environment.
Whether it’s the concerns or the opportunities – time will be the ultimate truth teller on whether the act delivers a future where value is measured not just in pounds and pence, but in positive impact too.
Now live, the Procurement Act offers not only a unique opportunity to redefine public procurement, but also for procurement processes to add to society and make a difference.
Will Campbell, social value engagement lead at Loop
Events & Awards News
ST GEORGE’S PARK
IN HORNCHURCH
IS A FINALIST IN PRESTIGIOUS PROPERTY AWARDS
Bellway London’s St George’s Park development in Hornchurch has been shortlisted for a prestigious property award.
The regeneration scheme, which has transformed the former St George’s Hospital site in the town, is a finalist in the Resi Awards Development of the Year (350-500 homes) category.
Bellway London has created a new neighbourhood of 356 homes on the 29acre site, which had stood vacant since the hospital closed in 2012. The scheme includes 76 affordable properties.
The development proved popular as soon as properties went on sale, with 40 plots reserved on opening day.
The former hospital site was previously used to accommodate RAF personnel stationed at neighbouring RAF Hornchurch during the Second World War and this heritage was respected in the details and design of the scheme.
The Resi Awards are organised by Property Week and will be held on Wednesday 7 May at the Grosvenor House Hotel, in London.
KEON HOMES RISES UP THE ‘GREAT PLACES TO WORK’ LADDER WITH 2ND PLACE FINISH
Keon Homes, which employs 55 people at its Head Office in Burntwood, was ranked second in the Medium Business category by Great Place To Work® at its annual awards evening in London.
The company scored 100% in fourteen of the top focus group questions posed to staff, who anonymously provide answers and feedback on how they feel about working at the business.
Communications, leadership behaviour, corporate image and team all scored top marks, with ‘my work has special meaning: this is not just a job’ enjoying the highest positive improvement. Every member of staff is encouraged to live and breathe the company’s ‘Doing the
Right Thing’ culture and ongoing training is available via the firm’s online learning platform and through accredited courses.
Delivering a positive impact on local communities is also important, with more than £40,000 raised last year by team members for Sense, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, St Basils, Pathways Lichfield and Spark Burntwood.
FIFTH ANNUAL LONDON BRICK APPRENTICESHIP CHALLENGE IS BIGGEST YET
The Forterra London Apprenticeship Challenge saw 21 apprentice bricklayers competing in teams of three, the most entrants seen in the five years the competition has been running.
Building products manufacturer Forterra has continued to sponsor the London Apprenticeship Challenge, hosted this year at Oaklands College in Hertfordshire. As one of Forterra’s construction hubs, Oaklands College benefits from material donations and educational support.
The seven teams, including the competition’s second all-female team, spent the day completing a series of challenges to show off their newly learned skills while testing the apprentices’ practical skills, time management and ability to fulfil a brief.
2025 saw Lee Marley Brickwork take the winning team title, while Alfie Head won the individual challenge.
As part of Forterra’s Construction Hub programme the competition uses Forterra’s donated iconic London Bricks. Using high quality bricks ensures learners and apprentices have the best materials to work and learn with to create cleaner lines and provide a more professional finish to the work.
Tools, Plant & Equipment
Premium Materials and Reliable Tools
Our commitment to quality is evident in our range of resin bound materials. We offer UVR and Non-UV resins, Rubber Mulch, Pebble Glue, and a variety of other specialised products, each engineered for exceptional durability and aesthetic versatility. With a wide selection of colours and aggregates, you have the flexibility to achieve the perfect finish for any project.
To complement our premium materials, we provide a comprehensive array of high-quality
POLYBOUND: YOUR RELIABLE PARTNER FOR PREMIUM RESIN BOUND SOLUTIONS AND EXPERT TRAINING
In the demanding world of construction, reliability is paramount. That’s why Polybound has established itself as the trusted supplier of high-quality resin-bound materials and tools for professionals across the UK. We understand that your success depends on both the quality of your materials and the expertise of your team.
tools, designed to facilitate efficient and precise installations. Our tool range caters to both resin bound and general construction applications, featuring powerful forced action mixers, Honda power floats, essential trowels and resin sledges, Geo-Textile Membranes, paddle whisks, and convenient tool bundles. We understand that the right tools are essential for achieving professional results, which is why we only offer products that meet our high standards for quality and reliability.
That’s why we’re committed to not just providing top-tier products, but also offering great service, support, and our own specialised training programme. We’re invested in ensuring you confidently utilise our products to deliver results that exceed expectations, setting us apart from other suppliers in the industry.
Expert Training and Support
We don’t just sell materials and tools; we empower you with the knowledge and skills to use them effectively. Our practical training course is designed to equip installers with the hands-on experience needed to achieve flawless results using our products. You’ll work directly with our resin systems and tools, learning the techniques that make a real difference on site. This training ensures you’re not just buying materials; you’re gaining the expertise to maximise their potential, leading to better projects and happier clients.
Our support extends beyond training. We’re dedicated to providing ongoing assistance and guidance, ensuring you have the resources you need to succeed. Whether you have questions about product selection, installation techniques, or project planning, our team is here to help. We believe in building long-term partnerships with our customers, providing the support you need to thrive in the competitive construction industry.
Tools, Plant & Equipment
PROTECTIVE BUMPER PRODUCTS IN HIGH DEMAND AS INDUSTRIES BATTLE RISE IN FORKLIFT DAMAGE
Financial loss as a result of forklift damage to stock is becoming an increasing issue across many industries as the current economic climate puts pressure on businesses to cut overheads whilst increasing production. Whether it’s puncturing the load when forks are incorrectly aligned with the pallet, crushing the load if it’s loaded onto the forks with too much force, or the load slipping off the forks entirely - it can lead to expensive product replacement or at the very least costly rework.
However much of this expense can be avoided with the right preventative measures in place, such as adequate training, a safe well-designed
warehouse setup - and protective forklift bumpers.
Contact Attachments
Ltd is seeing a rise in demand for GenieGrip® forklift protective products.
Demand is such that Contact are now seeing the range - which proved popular across the UK from the outset - receiving international interest, as industries globally continue to seek solutions to the avoidable wastage issue eating away at their bottom line.
GenieGrip® products are a range of protective bumpers and guards constructed of a strong and durable rubber compound manufactured in high visibility yellow, with a range of sizing to accommodate most forklift forks tines.
Various features include quick and easy installation methods to minimise downtime, anti-slip treads, nonmarking and oil and chemical resistant materials, and the capability to cope in pretty much any temperatures - from -40°C through to 110°C - making them ideal for overseas environments.
For more information, visit: www.forklift-attachments.co.uk.
SCHINDLER R.I.S.E CONSTRUCTION ROBOT TO MAKE UK DEBUT ON UK’S LARGEST
ALL-ELECTRIC OFFICE SCHEME
Schindler Group has developed the world’s first Robotic Installation System for Elevators (Schindler R.I.S.E) that is speeding up vertical construction projects around the world. For the first time, one of the five construction robots is deployed on a UK project, at BGO’s 105 Victoria Street project in London.
Schindler R.I.S.E has touched down on UK soil for the first time to support the construction of the pioneering 105 Victoria Street in central London.
The premium building, developed by leading global real estate investment management company BGO, is the UK’s largest 100% electric; net zero carbon office development at 445,000 square feet. With enhancing whole-life sustainability at its core, the building features an Urban Farm, a ‘walk and talk’ track, a cycle ramp and 25,000 square feet of green space. Skanska is the main contractor on this landmark project with completion targeted for 2026.
Lift and escalator manufacturer Schindler has created Schindler R.I.S.E, a self-climbing robot that is designed to manoeuvre itself along the building’s elevator shaft to install components. It is equipped with tools to drill holes and install anchor bolts with precision and speed.
Schindler R.I.S.E has touched down on UK soil for the first time to support the construction of the pioneering 105 Victoria Street in central London.
Traditionally this part of the construction process is undertaken by construction professionals, but it is hot, dusty and gruelling work. With Schindler R.I.S.E, human involvement in this part of construction is limited to a specialist operator who monitors the robot’s movements via a remotecontrol panel. This not only speeds up work, but reduces the risks of errors, rework or accidents, in line with BGO’s mission for 105 Victoria Street to find alternative ways of delivering social and environmental sustainability in the built world.
With Schindler R.I.S.E, human involvement in this part of construction is limited to a specialist operator who monitors the robot’s movements via a remote-control panel.
Schindler R.I.S.E is the first construction robot of its kind and uses advanced automated technology to deliver the fastest elevator installation method seen to date. The robot can execute a series of previously manual steps with the ultimate precision and totally autonomously. There are currently five robots in existence, which traverse the world supporting new construction projects. The technology has already featured with great success on projects across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
Schindler R.I.S.E has the potential to change how building contractors approach the process of installing the lift shaft. With the New London Architecture think tank reporting that almost 600 new skyscrapers are currently in the pipeline in the UK, the performance of Schindler R.I.S.E will be keenly monitored.
Learn more about Schindler R.I.S.E here.
INTERVIEW WITH IAIN DURRANT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR OF FABSPEED
We speak to Iain Durrant, the Business Development Director at FabSpeed, leader in innovative brick cladding systems offering both prefabricated and site-built solutions for projects ranging from small extensions to high-rise developments.
In this interview, Iain discusses FabSpeed’s versatile Pro-Clad™ range, including Pro-Clad™ 1, 2, and 3, highlighting their cost-effective and secure cladding solutions. This conversation explores the benefits of BBA certification, the company’s commitment to fire safety, durability, and its ongoing innovations as FabSpeed continues to shape the future of brick cladding in the construction industry.
FabSpeed is renowned for its innovative brick cladding systems. Can you provide an overview of the range of products offered under the FabSpeed brand and what sets them apart from other cladding solutions in the market?
FabSpeed is one of only a few suppliers who can offer both pre-fabricated and build on site solutions. This allows us to supply to a broader range of projects from extensions up to multi story high rise with the most suitable product.
FabSpeed offers several different brick cladding systems. Can you explain the key differences between Pro-Clad™ 1, ProClad™ 2, and Pro-Clad™ 3, and how they cater to different project requirements?
Pro-Clad™ 1 and 2 are lower cost options which are epoxy bonded to the substrate. Pro-Clad™ 1 has open coursing every
other brick for site closure with site applied brick slips, whereas Pro-Clad™ 2 has interlocking ends requiring no fitment of brick slips on site. Pro-Clad™ 3 is the same as Pro-Clad™ 2, however is mechanically fixed for security. All have BBA certification.
How does FabSpeed’s approach to prefabricated brick cladding differ from traditional brickwork construction, and what are the main benefits of this off-site fabrication method?
FabSpeed’s brick slip cladding solutions provide an economic solution for most development needs. CMS-40 vastly reduces the build time and provides a lighter structure which reduces the foundation cost. Our Pro-Clad™ products are superb for smaller areas of brickwork, where there is a timber or lightweight fame or lack of descending support below the brickwork.
With the inclusion of BBA certification for your CMS-40 system, can you share what specific advantages this certification offers to clients in terms of quality assurance and regulatory compliance?
BBA pulls together many areas of technical testing and assessment that ensure quality standards are met. Regular audits of our manufacturing sites ensure that the product and management controls are maintained. The NHBC recognises this and generally will not allow façade products without BBA to be used on construction for residential developments.
Your Pro-Clad™ panels are described as having excellent resistance to water, mould, and rodents. How do these qualities contribute to the longevity and durability of the cladding systems in different climates and environments?
When our Pro-Clad™ products are used this protects the building fabric and prevents dampness entering the inner structure, and/or timber frame. The MGO board used for the substrate of the system protects against water ingress preventing the build up of mould.
In terms of safety, especially in highrise buildings and large commercial developments, how does the inclusion of non-combustible materials in systems like CMS40 contribute to overall fire safety?
Following the tragic fire at Grenfell the building industry in the UK has seen substantial changes, and is now world leading in terms of fire security.
Iain Durrant
Between the 70’ and the 90’s the use of brick in high rise buildings had become almost non-existent. However, starting in the 2000’s, architects embraced the broad aesthetic that brick could bring and started to design buildings with this robust, long life product.
CMS-40 is designed to work with these modern methods of construction and contributes no calorific value to a building which could support a fire.
This allows the beauty of brick to be enjoyed in high rise construction safely and securely.
Looking to the future, what innovations or improvements do you foresee for FabSpeed’s cladding systems and how is the company planning to stay ahead of trends and demands in the construction industry?
Michelmersh in conjunction with its partner Cladmate is investing heavily to encourage and support the brickwork aesthetic for construction projects
which would be challenging to build traditionally. The products are evolving and will continue to see additions and improvements ongoing. Our partner Cladmate has invested in a design business which will provide design support for new projects.
What do you see as the advantages of brick slip systems over other options for high rise buildings?
Between the 70’ and the 90’s the use of brick in high rise buildings had become almost non-existent. However, starting in the 2000’s, architects embraced the broad aesthetic that brick could bring and started to design buildings with this robust, long life product.
Pre-cast companies capitalised on this and continue to produce fantastic brick faced products, but at a high price and with limited capacity.
Slip systems have brought a new era for architects, allowing them the freedom to design elaborate and beautiful buildings with a façade that ages extremely well.
What does CMS-40 bring that other products do lack.
CMS-40 is a flexible solution which allows the use of real bricks cut into brick slips within its façade. Often the brick specification is made long before the choice of framing, CMS-40 accepts most of these bricks into it allowing the widest of choices, and being able to stick to the specified brick.
Do you believe that the slip system Fabspeed and others supply will continue to inspire architectural design into the future?
The brick façade industry has seen considerable growth over the past decade, I believe its highly likely this will continue for many years to come, as brick is such a fantastic and versatile product. I believe architects and the manufactures of these faced systems, such as CMS40 will continue to evolve the range of designs and finishes that these systems can facilitate.
Training & Education News
GROUNDBREAKING MARKS START OF WORK AT LANDMARK NEW RADCLIFFE SCHOOL
Work has begun on Morgan Sindall Construction’s latest education project in Greater Manchester.
Star Radcliffe Academy is a five-form entry, 750 place, 11-16 secondary school. It is operated by Star Academies; one of the UK’s highest performing multi-academy trusts, with 36 schools nationally.
The school opened in September 2024 in temporary facilities. Ahead of its new intake of Year 7 pupils in September, the temporary facilities are being extended and enhanced to provide additional space and resources, including an additional assembly and indoor activity space, a school kitchen and a new outdoor play area, as well as science labs and additional classrooms.
The construction of the permanent school building, at the site on Spring Lane, is now underway.
A ground-breaking ceremony was held to mark the start of works with Morgan Sindall staff joined by representatives from the Department for Education, Bury Council and Star Academies.
Star Radcliffe Academy is the first new secondary school in Radcliffe in
over a decade, helping to address the demand for school places in the area.
Throughout construction, Morgan Sindall remains committed to minimising disruption and prioritising the safety of pupils and the local community. The company recently completed work at Pear Tree Academy, a new SEND school in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport and is currently on site at Dixons Newall Green Academy in Wythenshawe and Newhouse Academy in Rochdale.
ACADEMY
A former inmate at a Yorkshire Category C prison has secured employment in bricklaying following life changing support received as a result of a prison reform programme from Keepmoat after joining forces with His Majesty’s Prison Service and the National House Building Council (NHBC), piloting an inmate Bricklaying Academy.
After serving time at HMP Moorland, the individual struggled integrating back into society, in which he began to attend the academy.
The academy introduced experienced tutors, with bricklaying resources and curriculum support to inmates wishing to participate in learning bricklaying skills, to improve their job prospects after serving their sentence.
Whilst taking part in the academy he took on a mentorship role to support new members and committed to pursuing a career in bricklaying following his release.
Since its launch, the Bricklaying Academy at HMP Moorland has been equipping prisoners with industry standard skills to improve their employment prospects upon release. To date, 24 prisoners have engaged with the academy, gaining valuable hands-on experience and employability support.
Training & Education
Lee Chapman
GMG ENERGY HIRES ITS SECOND MODERN APPRENTICE – LEE CHAPMAN FROM THURSO BEGINS AS AN APPRENTICE JOINER
A second Modern Apprentice has joined Sutherland renewable business GMG Energy following the success of its first apprentice, Finlay Mackay – now a time-served mechanical maintenance engineer. The Halladale-based business has recruited Thurso teenager Lee Chapman as an apprentice joiner.
HOUSING ASSOCIATION WELCOMES
STUDENTS TO DEVELOPMENT FOR FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE
Through its strong collaboration with Burton and South Derbyshire College, Midlands-based Trent & Dove invited students from the College’s Stephen Burke Construction Academy to visit its £21.3 million Tyldesley Court project.
The 22 students gained valuable insight into the workings of a live construction site as progress continues on the creation of 72 apartments for the over-55s and 10 family homes.
The visit provided students with a first-hand look at site operations, bridging the gap between education and industry, exploring the different stages of development, reviewing site drawings and plans, and gaining a deeper understanding of construction methods and emerging technologies shaping the industry. They also discovered various career pathways within construction and the progression routes available to them.
Over the course of his four year long apprenticeship Lee will report to GMG Energy’s sawmill manager, Vasile Damian a joiner to trade and originally from Romania who has lived in Thurso for the last 17 years and oversees the six full-time employees and production of more than 2,000 tonnes of timber a year.
APPRENTICE ACADEMY LAUNCHED BY OMAGH-BASED CONSTRUCTION FIRM
An Omagh-based construction firm has launched an Apprenticeship Academy in partnership with South West College.
Representing a £1.5 million investment in skills training over the next five years from Anamore, the ‘Anamore Academy’ is a Higher-Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme.
Over the next five years, the company intends to employ a minimum of 25 HLAs through the new skills initiative, with two HLA’s and one placement student already employed within the initial 2024 cohort.
The Anamore students will gain an Ulster University accredited Foundation Degree with the option
of progressing onto further higher education qualifications.
The Academy, which will allow the students to ‘learn as they earn’ will focus primarily on construction qualifications, but also other expertise in HR, Accounting, Business Development, Health & Wellbeing and Administration.
Prospective applicants can apply here: https://swc.ac.uk/courses/ apprenticeships
Women in Construction
GENDER EQUALITY HAS COME ON LEAPS AND BOUNDS IN CONSTRUCTION, BUT FURTHER INCLUSION IS NEEDED TO FILL MUCH NEEDED SKILLS GAPS
Toni Rawlinson, Associate Director of FM Consultancy Services at Acivico Group, explains why broadening the approach to gender equality will reap further benefits for the construction sector.
Historically, construction suffered from the same problems that many wider trade sectors did – deeply ingrained stereotyping, a lack of women and minorities in leadership and poor diversity.
However, after years of hard work throughout the industry we’ve seen a positive shake up with more underrepresented people finding their dream role on building sites, in workshops and all the way up to management positions. Workplace cultures are starting to change for the better and we’ve seen avenues opening that were never before possible.
Misconceptions about genderspecific roles especially are gradually diminishing with a growing number of females choosing a career in construction.
Routes for all people in all sectors
My own story into the sector is one that wouldn’t have been possible 30 years ago. I’d initially trained as
a hairdresser before facing a career change in my early 20s and it wasn’t until a recruitment agency suggested construction that I’d even considered it as a possible choice.
At first, I was under the preconceived notion that construction was solely a man’s world and there was little that I could do to change that. However, from my perspective, the sector is more forward thinking than ever and I’m fortunate to have been surrounded by likeminded individuals that have helped me progress to heights I’d never dreamed of in Facilities Management.
The industry has come a long way to break down barriers for women and other less represented backgrounds but there is still a lot more that needs to be done. The number of women entering construction is still far too small and the number of firms and departments headed up by women is woefully inadequate. According to the Office for National Statistics, only 15% of professionals in the UK construction industry are women.
From my experience at Acivico, ensuring an equal mix of both genders at senior level can go a long way in removing barriers and inspiring us all to strive for a more diverse and inclusive future.
The construction sector is vast and multifaceted, fast-paced and ever changing, and offers a multitude of exciting career options. From engineering teams responsible for running and safety of operations and consultancies that oversee planning and design, through to those specialising in the emerging and incredibly exciting areas of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and sustainability – there are so many possibilities, including at senior level. Thus it is unfair that the once
common notion that trade professions are a viable career path for men only has – for far too long – deterred half of our working population from this sector.
Filling the skills gap
Of course, there is also a strong business case for curating greater gender equality. Construction, as with most trades, is facing huge skills gap shortages. If we are to address this then we can’t afford to dismiss half the working population.
There are more jobs than skilled people available to fill them, and with the government’s strong intentions to build economic growth and boost activity in the planning and housebuilding sectors, this is only going to grow.
There are obviously concerns, especially following the closure of Women into Construction, the independent notfor-profit organisation promoting gender equality in construction, that these new opportunities are not going to be provided to young females seeking careers in the sector.
But with businesses that are passionate about going the extra mile in their approach to gender equality, I’m confident that we will continue to support
A bright future?
Rome wasn’t built in a day and there will certainly be hurdles to overcome as we, as an industry, work towards achieving true gender balance. But I believe that rethinking our approach to hiring and promoting talent, and focusing on increasing female leadership has a big part to play.
Toni Rawlinson
Specialist construction training
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MASCOT® WORKWEAR DESIGNED FOR WOMEN
All jobs and professions come with their own needs and place different demands on their workwear and footwear. MASCOT offers workwear for various segments and professions, giving you the opportunity to select workwear to suit a specific task or industry.
At MASCOT you’ll find products in a range of different fabrics and materials, each with their own properties, a range of fits, and boasting an array of various features and details.
Because workwear isn’t just for men
For many women who work with trades, construction, and industry, it can be a challenge to find functional workwear that matches the demands for durability, wear resistance and fit. MASCOT has a wide selection of workwear and safety workwear for women that meets all these demands. Especially the assortment of work trousers designed to give women the best comfort and freedom of movement throughout the working day.
Clothes that fit great, feels great, and tends to be used the most. One of the goals from MASCOT is to create a professional’s “favourite workwear”, and that’s part of the reason why
MASCOT has so many ranges, styles, and sizes – for women! You’ll find jackets, gilets, jumpers, t-shirts and polo shirts, trousers, skirts and shorts specifically made for women.
The trousers, skirts and shorts come a Diamond fit – to give an even more precise fit!
If there is a difference of more than 20 cm between waist and hip measurements, ladies’ trousers with a DIAMOND fit are the ones for you.
Although the fit and design of MASCOT’s work trousers for women is different, it doesn’t mean that we have compromised on functionality. With the ladies’ trousers you get front pockets, back pockets, holster pockets and special pockets for rulers and mobile phone, as you already know from MASCOT’s additional assortment. Also, supplement the modern work trousers for women with accessories such as a belt, hammer holders or kneepads depending on your needs.
Your favourite workwear is long lasting
Products that last are not just practical and financially beneficial for the users of workwear, they are also of enormous benefit to the environment. When the fabrics, seams and colours in workwear are long-lasting, and when users do not need to buy new workwear often, then we can avoid unnecessary consumption of resources. The MASCOT® CUSTOMIZED range contains multiple products that are made from recycled materials – often in their primary material – which have a wear resistance on a par with products made from nonrecycled materials.
Tested
MASCOT is more than the highest quality products. In addition to the industry’s widest range and high delivery reliability, you get simple and efficient online ordering, customised logo solutions and fast delivery.
