Construction UK Magazine - October 2025

October 2025 Contents

Choosing and managing PPE workwear

Casey Group Applauded for Leading the Way in Building Safety

Irish construction firm Sisk officially opens new Cork office

Highways UK 2025: Shaping the Future of the Road Infrastructure Sector

Bagged cement in mid-sized construction

Interview with Alex Jones, Director at Walker Morris

London PropTech Show opens Complimentary Visitor Registrations for 2025 Edition

Rob Norton discussses attracting Gen Z to the construction industry

Think Timber Calls for a More Transparent Supply Chain

Farrans Opens Applications for 40 Graduate & Placement Positions

Tel: 01843 808

Editor Maria Lapthorn editor@constructionmaguk.co.uk

Editorial Assistant Sophie Weir editorial@constructionmaguk.co.uk

Sales Manager Hannah Marshall hannah@constructionmaguk.co.uk

Admin Assistant Jade Still jade@constructionmaguk.co.uk

Production/Design Laura Whitehead laura@constructionmaguk.co.uk

Accounts Richard Lapthorn accounts@lapthornmedia.co.uk

Circulation Manager Leo Phillips subs@constructionmaguk.co.uk

Website: constructionmaguk.co.uk

Twitter: @constructionukm

LinkedIn: @constructionmaguk

WINVIC CONTINUES EXPANSION OF GOLDEN TRIANGLE INDUSTRIAL PARK IN RUGBY

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has commenced works on a new state-of-the-art warehouse facility at Coton Park in Rugby, celebrating with an official groundbreaking ceremony.

On behalf of Newlands Developments, Winvic has started the 60-week build programme to deliver a 250,000 sq ft single-storey warehouse at the strategically located industrial park, which sits within the UK Golden Triangle of logistics.

This project sees Winvic’s return to Coton Park, where the company previously delivered two distribution and logistics units on plots 2 and 3, bringing existing knowledge of the site’s infrastructure to support the successful delivery of the latest phase. The new facility will include 15,000 sq ft of office accommodation and will consist of a structural steel, multi-span portal frame with a height of 15 metres and will target a BREEAM Excellent certification and an EPC rating of A/ A+.

The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by representatives from Winvic and Newlands Developments marked a key milestone and highlighted Winvic’s

agility and capability in overcoming complex site challenges early in the programme.

As part of the infrastructure and enabling works, Winvic used a 350-tonne crane to install a 34-metre ex Ministry of Defence tank bridge, to span a 457 mm high-pressure gas main. This was a critical element of the works to enable access onto the site which requires crossing the major utility.

To further progress works, Winvic is constructing a Filcor (polystyrene) road that will wrap around a 54-metre-long 4m x 2m culvert. Traditional construction methods such as cement and compacted fill were not viable due to the loadings imposed onto the gas main.

Winvic and Cadent Gas are working together to develop and implement this solution to ensure the integrity of the gas infrastructure and safety of operatives working on site.

Coton Park is located 3.7 miles from junction 19 of the M1 and fronts the M6, giving direct connectivity to Coventry and Birmingham and other major routes.

£600,000

SECURES ICONIC PLYMOUTH BUILDING FOR THE COMMUNITY

Work is underway on a project to breathe new life into an iconic Plymouth building, thanks to collaboration between three organisations.

Nudge Community Builders has taken on the Millennium Building, following a £600,000 joint investment from social impact investor Resonance and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.

Construction has now started on plans to turn the Union Street building into community spaces for young people and the wider community, including a music venue, workshops and a café bar.

The Millennium Building was constructed as a cinema in 1931 and was later turned into a nightclub, before its closure in the early 2000s.

The structure stood empty for 17 years before Nudge purchased 50% of the building, thanks to investments of over £350,000 from the Rank Foundation and 491 community shareholders, and a partnership with Eat Work Art.

The latest phase has seen a joint investment of £600,000 from Resonance and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, to purchase the remaining 50% of the building, and a £480,000 grant from the Youth Investment Fund to support internal works.

CONSTRUCTION BEGINS ON THE OXFORD TRUST’S NEW ASPEN BUILDING AT THE WOOD CENTRE FOR INNOVATION IN HEADINGTON

CONTRACTOR CLEGG CONSTRUCTION COMPLETES

£37M LEEDS STUDENT ACCOMMODATION SCHEME

Contractor Clegg Construction has handed over a £37m student accommodation scheme in Leeds ready for the new academic year.

The Fabric Works in Leylands Road is a 402-studio block featuring study space, a cinema lounge and media room, fitness studio and gym, courtyard, bike storage, private dining room, and shared communal space with pool tables and a dry bar area.

The two-year project was handed over on time and ensures that the development is available for students this September.

Delivered in partnership with PPG Leeds Ltd, a joint venture between Primus Property Group

and HIG Capital, The Fabric Works is situated next to Spinners Yard – a 185-apartment build-to-rent development that was completed by Clegg Construction earlier this year for property developer Rise Homes.

The wider project team which delivered The Fabric Works included Tim Groom Architects, Ridge and Partners, Strive, KKA Studio, Quartz Project Services, and Innov8 Development Solutions.

As part of the delivery of The Fabric Works, Clegg Construction undertook a range of commitments to the local community including hosting multiple visits from Leeds College of Building students, significant donations to Blessed of the Father Food Bank, and regular contact with members of the neighbourhood via newsletters, a noticeboard, letter drops and inperson visits from the site team.

Clegg Construction has also worked with Community Wood Recycling for wood waste management and Wren Bakery, which uses baking and coffee as tools to provide disadvantaged women with opportunities towards employment.

The Oxford Trust, an Oxford-based charity with the mission to “encourage the pursuit of science”, has marked the start of construction of its new Aspen Building at the Wood Centre for Innovation in Headington, Oxford with an official groundbreaking ceremony – an important milestone in its 40th anniversary year.

Beard Construction has been appointed the construction partner to deliver a £7 million expansion at the Wood Centre for Innovation.

Central to the development is the Aspen Building, which will sit alongside the existing Linden Building and Science Oxford Centre at the Wood Centre for Innovation.

The new 17,000 sq ft (1,600 sq m) facility will provide high quality CL II level laboratory and office space over two floors and will also feature a STEM resources room to enable the Trust to expand outreach for its STEM education and engagement programmes, delivered by Science Oxford.

The significant investment is in response to the strong demand from start-up and early-stage grow-on science and tech companies seeking laboratory and office space within the Headington Science Cluster.

The project will also boost employment in the area during construction and, once fully operational, is anticipated to create up to 80 new on-site jobs.

Set alongside 15 acres of woodland, the Aspen Building will target BREEAM Excellent and include photovoltaic roof panels, a green wall, rainwater harvesting, cycle parking, shower and locker facilities and a minimum of 10% Biodiversity Net Gain to enhance its surrounding 15 acres of woodlands, ponds, and grassland. The rainwater harvesting will supply grey water for toilets and will provide additional flow to the ponds, minimising the need for sewer discharge.

The Aspen Building is to target practical completion in early summer 2026 and the office and lab spaces are available to pre-let, allowing flexibility of design for incoming tenants.

FREELEY COMMENCES DEMOLITION OF DERELICT HIGH SCHOOL

Demolition contractor Freeley has been appointed to clear the former Offerton High School site in Stockport, Greater Manchester.

Following asbestos removal, Freeley is demolishing two derelict structures - Bridge College in Woodlands Drive, and the Curzon Building in The Fairway, which extends to varying heights and borders Castle Hill High School and Lisburne School.

The smaller building, Bridge College, is being taken down first, with the whole site scheduled to be cleared by mid-December 2025.

As homes, schools and public footpaths are within close proximity, noise, dust and traffic will be carefully managed throughout the project.

As part of the project, Freeley has hired a local resident for the contract, is using local subcontractors and suppliers, and carrying out career advice sessions for people out of work. Continuing its social value commitment, Freeley is also making donations to local charities, including Stockport Foodbank’s Offerton branch, The Wellspring, Stockport Lads Club JFC and St Winifred’s RC Primary School.

VICTORY QUAY MOVES FORWARD: SITE PREPARATION AND GROUNDWORK KICK OFF NEW COASTAL COMMUNITY

VIVID has appointed PMC Construction as the Principal Contractor, and work is now underway to prepare the site at Victory Quay — laying the foundations for a vibrant new community on Portsmouth’s northern waterfront.

Once this essential groundwork is complete, construction of the first phase of new homes can begin — bringing 183 much-needed homes to the area (once complete will bring 835 new homes, a mix of private and affordable tenures including shared ownership, sales and social rent). This marks a major step forward in creating a welcoming new gateway community and neighbourhood for Portsmouth, opening doors for more people to find a place they can truly call home.

PMC Construction brings valuable expertise and a collaborative approach to the project, helping turn this exciting vision into reality—starting with the essential groundwork and site preparation. As a local company, they’ll be

working with many local subcontractors and tradespeople, and they’ve already shown their support for future talent by hosting a skills workshop for aspiring apprentices.

This first phase includes 183 new homes, completing the new sea wall flood defences to help keep the site safe and protect the future community for years to come, raising and preparing the land to make sure it’s safe and ready for building, putting in essential services like water, electricity, and roads to connect the new homes, and creating a scenic coastal path for everyone to enjoy the waterfront.

With works now underway, PMC Construction will continue site preparation through the autumn. Construction will continue to take into consideration seasonal environmental needs and those of the birds and animals who make Victory Quay their home, especially during the winter months. The first homes are expected to be ready for our customers in late 2026.

INTRODUCING THERMASAFE 30™

Fire safety is non-negotiable – but it shouldn’t come at the expense of the environment. With the latest award-winning innovation in fire door technology from Heron Fire Doors, it doesn’t have to. Thermasafe 30™ combines our industry-leading fire door specification with the lowest U-value of any timber door on the market.

Supreme energy efficiency

Industry-leading U-value of 1.2W/m2K, reducing heat loss by up to 30% compared to conventional timber fire doors

Unmatched fire protection

Meets E30Sa test standards, consistently exceeding requirement by 50%

Advanced sustainability

Uncompromising security

PAS24:2022 security rating under attack, impact & mechanical loading

Installer-friendly

Award Winning

British Woodworking Federation Award for Innovation in 2024

HOW HAS GRENFELL RESHAPED THE REGULATORY LANDSCAPE OF TODAY?

Since the Grenfell fire, the industry’s regulatory focus has shifted. With full industry reform underway and new regulatory frameworks being introduced, compliance is now a priority. In response to the tragedy, many papers have been published aiming to improve safety standards across the sector.

Dr Alex Boote, Product and Innovation Manager at ARC Building Solutions, explores how reform proposals in the Construction Product Reform Green Paper are reshaping the built environment, and why accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement must define every move.

Eight years ago a devastating fire broke out at Grenfell Tower in London - one of the worst fires in modern UK history becoming a catalyst for the most significant regulatory reforms in recent times. Alongside the seven-year public inquiry, two key reform papers were published: the 2018 Hackitt Report, discussing building regulations and standards, and the 2024 MorrellDay Review, focusing on testing and certification. Each has significantly contributed to the much-needed industry reform and regulation changes to improve safety standards. These include the Building Safety Act 2022, which banned combustible cladding on high-rise buildings, and amendments to the Building Regulations and Fire Safety Act.

The latest milestone in the Grenfell journey, the Construction Products

Reform Green Paper, published in February 2025, is more than a checklist. It’s a call for action. It challenges businesses to go beyond the minimum and lead the way in building a safer, more transparent, and responsible sector. Though only a recommendation today, it may soon become law. By preparing for these reforms, businesses can get ahead.

The green paper suggests manufacturers undertake detailed risk assessments for each product, considering its lifecycle and foreseeable use. Currently, two-thirds of construction products lack designated standards and fall outside CE or UKCA regulations.

Since Grenfell, two regulators have been created: the National Regulator for Construction Products (NRCP) and the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). Both will soon have the power to enforce sanctions and penalties.

The proposal suggests all products should be clearly labelled with performance and safety-critical information. A new national product library will contain test results,

Dr Alex Boote, Product & Innovation Manager

ARC Building Solutions

certificates of compliance, and relevant academic research, providing full industry visibility. Manufacturers must provide all test data or face penalties. The Code for Construction Product Information (CPPI), a not-for-profit organisation, supports the need for clear, accurate, accessible, and unambiguous product information.

The green paper suggests the UK will likely follow the European Union by introducing digital product passports. These would feature all product information regarding sustainability, performance, and traceability. Digital passports enable end-users to access information digitally and provide complete product traceability from manufacturers to installation.

Third-party accreditation schemes provide confidence that product information is accurate and unbiased. The green paper calls for stronger oversight by national regulators to improve competence and assessment reliability.

The green paper recommends products undergo lifecycle assessments, promoting a circular economy through recycling and reuse. Sustainability should already be a priority within businesses’ frameworks, and this proposal reinforces that approach.

The green paper encourages accountability throughout the supply chain, clearly defining responsibilities for economic operators. Breaches could result in fines, bans from industry work, or criminal charges.

The Grenfell fire showed the deadly risks of unsafe products. To simplify identifying companies that ‘cut corners,’ the paper proposes an easier route for affected parties to recover financial losses from manufacturers.

As the industry moves forward, the Construction Product Reform Green Paper offers a clear vision for reform, urging clearer engagement and regular reviews of regulatory frameworks. Accountability and transparency remain central. Whether you’re a manufacturer, architect, contractor, or regulator, now is the time to help shape a safer future for UK construction.

PROTECTING CONSTRUCTION WORKERS FROM THE EXTREME PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE JOB

By Pete Grinbergs, Chief Medical Officer and Co-Founder at EQL.ai

Working in construction is physically demanding in a way few jobs are. Day in, day out, workers face the kind of strain most athletes only endure during training. Pain caused by injury to muscles and joints remains one of the sector’s most persistent, underestimated, and undertreated health threats – more must be done to address this on both an individual and economic scale.

The Health and Safety Executive’s 2024 report shows musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders account for 42% of all workrelated ill health cases in construction, with affected workers losing an average of 21 working days each year. Repetitive strain, awkward postures, and heavy lifting can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and in some cases, people leaving the workforce altogether.

As an ex-Premier League physiotherapist, I’ve seen firsthand how timely, consistent care gets people back to fitness quickly. I’ve also seen the opposite: injuries left to worsen without guidance, workers waiting until the pain becomes unbearable, and sporadic access to a physio affecting recovery.

Within the construction industry, the numbers clearly show that this is something we need to address as a matter of urgency. Left untreated, MSK injuries can have a devastating ripple effect: financial strain from lost work, long-term pain impacting mental health, and lower quality of life.

It shouldn’t only be elite athletes who get the best care. Thousands of construction workers face intense physical pressures every day, and their injuries can often be treated effectively – if the right support is in place. What could that look like?

Access to treatment is one of the biggest challenges. It’s typical to wait weeks or even months for a physiotherapy appointment through the NHS – far too long when early intervention can prevent a small strain from becoming a career-limiting injury.

For many workers moving between sites or working as subcontractors, occupational health provision isn’t always readily available, leaving them to self-manage or push through the pain. Technology can help, and we should leverage it wherever we can to enable the best care. For example, smartphone apps and digital services mean that workers can now have remote contact with a physio within days, or even hours, of injury – so recovery starts sooner. Tech can also enable regular check-ins, which are critical to recovery. Many treatment plans require daily exercises and adjustments; regular touchpoints are far easier to maintain through ongoing digital contact than in-person appointments with a GP or physio.

Another thing we must consider, especially in male-dominated industries like construction, is the social and cultural barriers preventing timely access to healthcare. Asking for help isn’t easy, and research shows men are particularly likely to delay it. Too often, discomfort is ignored or masked with painkillers until the injury can’t be worked through any longer.

Talking openly about pain during work inductions, encouraging symptom reporting, and offering visible support for subcontractors can make a real difference. Providing short, practical training sessions on recognising early signs of musculoskeletal problems can help workers take action sooner. Peer champions or “health advocates” on site could also normalise these conversations and make seeking support feel less like a weakness and more like good practice.

Looking more widely at the sector, MSK injuries have a crippling impact. Workers in pain recover more slowly, are more prone to accidents, and perform less effectively – impacting deadlines, budgets, and safety. In a sector already facing labour shortages, keeping people healthy isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s essential for the industry to prosper.

Construction workers are the backbone of our built environment, and frankly, they deserve better. Giving them the latest digital tools to support health will protect not just individual livelihoods, but the future strength of the sector itself.

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SWISS AIR PAPR – BREATHING WITHOUT LIMITS

Lung protection is becoming increasingly important on construction sites. Mandatory precautions such as innovative and comfortable respiratory protection systems are therefore a must, especially for longer operating times. The revolutionary swiss air respiratory protection from optrel offers an ideal solution.

Effective protection against pollutants

Moderate to high levels of smoke, gases, vapours, and fine dust are not uncommon. These pollutant emissions can very easily enter the lungs and cause coughing, shortness of breath, bronchitis, and in the long term, even pulmonary fibrosis or silicosis. Employees should definitely be protected from this with comfortable half masks and clever filter technologies.

No (mandatory) breaks and no need for a close shave

The swiss air supplies users with fresh, purified air thanks to its integrated

blower system and highly efficient filters. The positive pressure in its high-tech fabric half mask supports breathing and counteracts fatigue. At the same time, the cooling fresh air allows for increased concentration on the work. And thanks to the overpressure system, the comfortable half mask does not even need to fit tightly, no fit tests are required and even beards do not need to be shaved. The results are: No more forced breaks due to the mask versus conventional dust masks, more performance and more efficiency. For certain tasks in particularly contaminated environments, the useroriented respiratory protection can even be combined with a silicone mask.

User- and eco-friendly technology

To ensure reliable and safe respiratory protection at all times, the control panel of the swiss air shows the filter contamination and the battery capacity. Beside the initial investment, only the filters need to be changed on a regular basis depending on the dust load. By using filters instead of conventional dust masks, waste gets reduced and the sustainability of the company is being increased. Making the swiss air a product, that offers great value for money not only in performance, but also in assisting company goals.

Ultra-lightweight and flexible

Thanks to its ergonomic harness and low weight construction workers can move freely, hardly noticing their respiratory protection system. The PAPR also works independently from other headgear, hearing protection, or safety goggles. Finally, with the protection cover the swiss air can be used even in the rain.

Welcome to the Swiss Alps –Welcome to optrel swiss air

swiss air is the revolutionary PAPR from optrel and is a testament to everything the company represents. As a swiss manufacturer of respiratory protection and automatic welding helmets, optrel is committed to delivering lasting benefits in its products. That’s why around one quarter of the optrel team is dedicated to continuously researching and developing innovations, that make your everyday work easier and safer. With swiss air, your team lives and breathes real innovation.

Read more about swiss air on the new optrel website or watch a video (product video / instruction video) for more information.

swiss air control panel

Breath the purest air thanks to the revolutionary swiss air PAPR!

· Eliminates 99.8% of particles, including quartz dust, from the air

· No face shaving and no fit test required

· Ultra easy to use

· Compatible with all common helmets, ear defenders and goggles

MUCK GRIT S5 SAFETY WELLINGTON

The Muck Grit S5 safety boot represents the new pinnacle of our industrial and safety sector portfolio.

A completely new design created on both men’s and women’s specific lasts, the Grit S5 has been created from the ground up, encompassing all of the classic Muck Boot traits of comfort, insulation and is of course 100% waterproof.

The Muck Grit S5 work boot is the culmination of our collaboration with leading Industrial & Safety experts and top European footwear designers/ developers working under the direction of our Global Product team.

The safety boots feature a self-insulating 5mm neoprene bootie construction that is lined with a breathable sandwich mesh layer that effectively wicks moisture away from the body, ensuring a comfortable environment – keeping you warm when inactive and offering effective heat dissipation when active.

The neoprene bootie is protected by extended hand laid rubber overlays that are shaped and contoured for an ideal balance of structure and flexibility.

The Muck Grit S5 is available in a range of colours designed to complement your profession.

The Muck Grit S5 is finished with a versatile “bob” outsole that offers grip in multiple situations.

The upper also features reflective panels to offer 360’ visibility.

The Muck Grit S5 is available in a range of colours designed to complement your profession. So whether you are a man or woman operating on building sites, railways, highways, landscaping or require safety footwear around the farm/stable or at home for DIY, the Muck Grit S5 offers you the 100% Muck Proof protection you need with the comfort you will love.

Browse the Muck Grit collection or Muck Boots safety boots here.

GRIT S5

SAFETY WELLINGTON

EN ISO 20345:2022+A:2024

S5S FO LG HRO CI HI AN SR

Key features:

• 100% Waterproof

• Key reflective areas

• Composite toe cap

• Comfortable, cushioned and removable PU footbed

• Robust functional heel kick

• Certified to Ankle Protection (AN)

• Energy absorbing heel

• Outsole certified and tested to new maximum Slip Resistance (SR)

• Fuel and oil-resistant outsole

• Performance ladder grip tested to New Ladder Grip Standard (LG)

• Outsole heat resistant to 300°C

• Certified to Cold Insulation (CI) at -17°C

• Certified to Heat Insulation (HI) at 150°C

Workwear

CHOOSING AND MANAGING PPE WORKWEAR

By Melissa George, Area Sales Manager, Lindström UK

Selecting and managing PPE workwear can be challenging—especially when safety, legal compliance, and a highrisk environment are at stake. With multiple workers, machinery, and hazards in play, how do you choose the right PPE and ensure it’s properly maintained?

Each industry has specific regulations on PPE workwear. Your risk assessment will define the PPE legal requirements, but it’s important to know the requirements of each job, who is doing it, how often and when. Many companies overestimate their PPE needs and buy unnecessary workwear or workwear with too high a specification.

How do I define my company’s specific needs?

If possible, arrange a workwear site visit. Good workwear suppliers will have experts from different fields familiar with the relevant regulations. They will help you find the right workwear for the situations you face.

Do I need to order workwear specifically designed for my industry?

The answer is both yes and no. As a rule, workwear works best when designed specifically for you. But this is also more expensive. A good compromise is to find a supplier that has existing workwear available for the minimum specifications you need.

Do I need fitted garments?

When choosing workwear, make sure it is not too loose and not too tight. It is good when there is some air gap left between the garment and the skin. That way, sparks and spatter stay away from you. You should make sure the jacket overlaps the trouser waist, even

when you are bending down, and check that your wrists and ankles are covered.

Can I share PPE workwear?

Sharing workwear is not recommended. Beyond hygiene and comfort issues, having workwear in your own size makes work safe, and garments will feel more comfortable as well as last longer.

How are garments fitted?

Sometimes companies use a ‘drop pile’ or ‘pool’, where a few standard sizes of PPE workwear are supplied, and an employee takes what best fits / is

available. A more focused alternative is a fitted service where the workwear supplier meets the customer and provides workwear for each user.

How do I take care of workwear PPE?

If PPE garments are not clean and in good condition, they cannot protect you properly. Regular changing, washing and maintenance are essential. If you buy the workwear, then you will have to organise the washing and repair. If you use a renting service, the washing and repair should be done for you.

How can you monitor the use and condition of PPE workwear?

The basic system is simply a manual record, relying on users and management to update workwear use. These days, many companies have technological solutions like an RFID chip which allows workwear use to be recorded, and the information easily presented on an online portal.

Workwear PPE is there to serve a purpose – to protect the user.

It needs to:

• Be up to standard.

• Be comfortable and appropriate.

• Be properly fitted.

• Have its use checked.

• Be regularly cleaned and repaired.

If these factors are not carefully considered, then the workwear will not protect the employee. This puts them, and the company, at risk.

MORE HISTORY IN THE MAKING?

A WORLD’S FIRST IN WORK TROUSER TECHNOLOGY – AN INTEGRATED KNEEPAD SYSTEM –

Making durable, functional and ergonomic Trousers that offer great comfort for people who are always on the go has been a constant challenge over the last three millennia.

It is said that the origins of Trousers as a functional, practical, garment can be traced back to the warrior equestrian societies of Eastern Europe and Asia Minor as far back as the sixth century BC. The Scythian and Persian peoples developed Trousers as a practical alternative to wearing robes on horseback. Those more traditional garments were both uncomfortable and impractical while the comfort that Trousers provided for extended periods on horseback made them the practical choice of the time. Loose Trousers tucked into boots were a simple, but effective clothing innovation which increased the comfort, mobility and efficiency of those ancient horse-peoples.

Relics from archaeological finds at Thorsberg (Denmark) and Damendorf (Schleswig-Holstein, Germany) dating from 2nd to 4th Centuries AD show how Trousers had evolved ergonomically to suit practical needs of the time. Made from complex patterns comprising a number of independent pieces of fabric, the Trousers were produced to suit an individual’s body shape with innovations such as waistbands and even integrated foot-pieces.

Despite innovations such as the ZipperFly for Trousers and the basic-styled garments like the Bib ‘n’ Brace and Boilersuit, the workplace had to wait over 100 years, until 1975 in fact, for the next stage in Trouser evolution.

It was the invention by Matti Viio – a Swedish Electrician - of the Holster Trousers with Kneepads that heralded the Snickers Workwear brand and the era of purpose-designed working clothes for modern-day professional tradesmen and women. Since 1975, Snickers Workwear has been inventing and reinventing Work Trousers with Kneepads each with a combination of market-leading design technology, hi-tech fabric innovations for comfort and functionality and more recently a sharp focus on sustainability.

After nearly 50 years of continual innovation, Snickers Workwear now has a range of over 90 styles of Trousers with

8 different types of Kneepad in patented KneeGuard® Systems for individual worker needs in a wide variety of working environments. From professional trades in building and construction, to engineering and maintenance, logistics and warehousing, heavy and light industries as well as hazardous workplaces, Snickers Workwear has a pair of trousers to suit and kneepads for protection - for all shapes and sizes.

In what is probably the most groundbreaking Work Trouser innovation, the brand has now launched the world’s first built-in, certified kneepads which are completely integrated into a pair of Snickers Workwear’s premium stretch Work Trousers - the unique AllroundWork, Stretch Trousers with Capsulized™ Kneepads and Holster Pockets. The result of an intensive research and development process that has spanned the last three years, they deliver low-profile, comfortable impact protection – tested, performance validated and certified to exacting International Standards.

Building Capsulized™ Kneepads

Designed and engineered in partnership with YBC®, the Capsulized™ kneepad components comfortably deliver effective penetration protection and impact absorbtion for the wearer.

A durable CORDURA® stretch covering provides external fabric durability. It integrates with the first performance layer of high-density foam which delivers maximum protection. This combines further with a shield of Ortholite comfort foam technology that’s highly shock absorbent.

Comfort and protection is further enhanced by a foam comfort layer for pressure release when working while kneeling. Finally, there’s an inner polyester fabric which seals the outer protection layers onto the trouser leg and provides a comfortable surface between the wearer’s knee and the kneepad itself.

It’s effectively a Capsulized™ Layer Cake with a number of protection layers that work with each other to dissipate the energy created by the impact of working on your knees or if you accidentally bump them in and around the workplace.

And Finally… More Trouser History in the making

It’s widely accepted that the long-term effects of knee injuries and the impact of working on your knees can cause of a lifetime of discomfort and restricted movement. Yet History has shown that properly designed trousers have an important part to play in delivering comfort, efficiency and well-being in physical activities.

The design technology in Work Trousers has developed considerably since the Thorsberg and Damendorf Trousers as well as Strauss’ first purpose workwear for miners. But while factors like durability and functionality have been the only drivers the design of Work Trousers for the last 170 years, Snickers Workwear’s latest innovation takes the Trouser design and development process to a new level.

WORKWEAR FOR ALL CONDITIONS

Rain, wind or heat. Long days and hard work. When your working conditions change, your workwear needs to keep up. This is where MASCOT® WORKWEAR’s products and the layer-on-layer principle make all the difference.

Layer 1: Stay dry

For the workwear closest to your body, you need a layer that wicks away sweat so you don’t get cold and damp. Our base layers are made from stretchy, moisture-wicking materials that follow your movements and keep your body dry - even during physically demanding jobs.

For a base layer, try the MASCOT® CROSSOVER 20482-786 T-shirt. It is made from 60% organic cotton and 40% recycled polyester and comes in 17 colours, so you are sure to find one to match your business needs or personal style. The fabric dries quickly and retains its colour and shape after every wash. Additionally, the fabric has high wear resistance meaning it made to last longer.

Layer 2: Keep warm

The insulating mid-layer must be able to keep you warm without constricting or restricting your movements. It is crucial that the material is both insulating and breathable. Many of our mid-layers are made with CLIMASCOT® Lightweight Insulation, which is designed to be highly insulating, lightweight, and give you maximum freedom of movement.

2

Try the MASCOT® ACCELERATE 18101511 which comes in 6 colours. The ultimate stretch material makes the jackets elastic in all directions, giving you a unique freedom of movement and comfort as you work. The material is lightweight, water-repellent and is fastened with a zip and internal storm flap, to keep the wind out, making it durable and comfortable to wear in the wetter seasons. It also has reflectors on the arms for visibility at night or in the early mornings.

can choose between waterproof and water-repellent models, all developed with wear resistance, flexibility and functionality in mind.

Try the MASCOT® ACCELERATE 18301231 Outer Shell Jacket. You are still very likely to sweat under your jacket during winter as you work and sweat can get trapped and make you uncomfortable. The 18301-231 jacket is breathable, allowing you to get rid of moisture so you don’t become damp. It is also wind and waterproof to protect you from the elements and includes reflectors for safety. The zip fastener has a double storm flap to provide extra protection against bad weather and a detachable lined hood with adjustable elastic drawstring for you to add or remove as you see fit. A bonus is the ribbed cuffs which stay close to your wrists to keep the cold out. It also follows your movement, so the sleeves don’t hinder your work by getting in the way. Layer 1

Layer 3

Layer 3: Protect yourself from wind and weather

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WESTERN UNVEILS MULTIMILLION POUND INVESTMENT

Western, one of the UK and Ireland’s most experienced offsite construction specialists, has invested £1m in a fully automated timber panel production line at its Coalisland headquarters.

The investment is part of a multimillion-pound programme to boost innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in construction.

Developed with Modular Building Automation and JJ Smith Woodworking Machinery, the new line combines advanced automation with powerful digital design

tools to deliver higher output, greater precision, improved safety, and energyefficient building systems.

At the heart of Western’s latest initiative is a suite of next-generation machinery to manufacture open and closed timber wall panels with minimal manual handling. Underpinned by hsbcad’s integrated design platform, it enables digital fabrication workflows and rapid designto-manufacture capabilities.

The new system will improve delivery timelines, reduce site disruption, minimise material waste, and ensure tighter building tolerances while supporting Western’s carbon reduction targets. It also enhances the company’s capacity to meet growing demand for faster, greener construction in line with Net Zero ambitions.

“This isn’t just a leap in technology - it’s a statement about where we’re headed,” said Western’s Managing Director, Rory McGuigan. “We’re investing in the future of construction. That means making our operations smarter, faster, and more sustainable.”

For more information visit: westernbuild.com

CASEY GROUP APPLAUDED FOR LEADING THE WAY IN BUILDING SAFETY AS INDUSTRY

AND REGULATOR WORK TOGETHER TO DRIVE CHANGE

The Casey Group, a leader in building safety works, has been commended by Dame Judith Hackitt – the architect of the landmark Building a Safer Future report – for its leadership and commitment to culture change following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

During a recent visit to Casey’s offices and its Building Safety and Skills Academy in Rochdale, Dame Judith met with senior leaders, project teams, and operatives to hear first-hand how the firm is embracing the new responsibilities introduced by the Building Safety Act (BSA).

The visit also included a tour of Avro Hollows in Manchester, where Casey is remediating four 23-storey tower blocks in line with the new safety standards.

Casey Group says her praise highlights a growing sense of optimism across

the sector, as more organisations actively work in partnership with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to raise standards and ensure resident safety is prioritised, and the government looks into potential reforms to the building safety processes.

The visit also coincides with Casey achieving six successful Gateway 2 approvals — a key milestone under the Building Safety Act, ensuring projects are reviewed and approved before construction begins.

While the implementation of the new regulatory framework has brought challenges, including complexity and delays, leading contractors like Casey are proving that collaboration and shared learning can turn those challenges into lasting improvements.

The visit comes at a pivotal time, with a new inquiry led by Baroness Taylor of Bolton exploring how the new rules can be more effectively applied. As the UK Government pushes forward with an ambition to deliver 370,000 homes annually, the alignment of safety, efficiency, and delivery remains a key focus.

RAIMONDI CRANES TO ACQUIRE TEREX LIFTING BUSINESSES, EXPANDING GLOBAL REACH AND UK OFFERING

Raimondi Cranes, the Italian manufacturer of high-performance lifting solutions with a growing footprint in the UK, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire key lifting divisions from US-based Terex Corporation. The deal includes Terex Tower Cranes, SelfErecting Cranes, Rough Terrain Cranes, and the North America Cranes service hub.

This major acquisition expands Raimondi’s product portfolio to include self-erecting and rough terrain cranes, strengthening its offering to contractors across the UK and Europe. It also enhances global support infrastructure and distribution — key for UK firms relying on consistent service and availability.

The acquisition includes manufacturing facilities in Fontanafredda and Crespellano, Italy, and will see around 250 Terex employees join Raimondi. With Terex cranes already widely used on UK construction sites, the move is expected to benefit local customers through broader product choice and improved after-sales service.

The transaction is expected to close in Q3 2025, pending regulatory approvals, and supports Raimondi’s goal of reaching $500 million in annual revenue by 2028.

SISK OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW CORK OFFICE

Ireland’s largest construction firm, Sisk has officially opened its new office at City Gate, Mahon in Cork city centre. Its new Cork office was officially opened today by Michael McGrath, EU Commissioner, Gary McGann, Chairman, Sicon Ltd (Sisk Group) and Paul Brown, CEO, Sisk.

The new office was retrofitted over a four-month period and has capacity for over 50 people. The Sisk – Cork office had previously been based on Kinsale Road since 1967.

The company has recently been announced as main contractor for the extension of Center Parcs Longford Forest having previously completed the Dunkettle Interchange Upgrade Scheme and Pfizer in Ringaskiddy over the past 18 months.

THE MOMENTUM GROUP MARKS LANDMARK YEAR

Leading North West property services company, The Momentum Group, has marked a standout year of progress with the release of its second Annual Momentum Contribute Report.

Momentum Contribute underpins

The Momentum Group’s business activities, and the report highlights a string of achievements that demonstrate the business’s commitment to people, places, the planet and professionalism, including delivering 1,178 hours of work placements for local students and individuals facing barriers to work, expanding its apprenticeship programme, alongside strengthened sustainability practices, with 60% of suppliers located within 25 miles and ESG principles embedded in supplier vetting.

Health, safety and well-being also remained a cornerstone of Momentum’s approach. Guided by its ‘Safe First’ principle, the Group reported zero dangerous occurrences, stronger mental health support, including occupational health initiatives, Mental Health First Aider training, and the continuation of its “Time to Talk” programme, and investment above benchmark, with 1.5% of turnover dedicated to health, safety and wellbeing.

Show Preview: Highways UK 2025

HIGHWAYS UK 2025: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR

Highways UK, in partnership with National Highways, has established itself as the UK’s dedicated highways and roads trade show: bringing together the people responsible for planning, developing, managing, maintaining, and future-proofing the nation’s roads networks.

Join us from October 15th–16th 2025, at the NEC, Birmingham to exchange ideas, build your brand, form new connections and partnerships, grow your professional network and uncover new opportunities alongside us.

A Gathering of Industry Powerhouses

With an anticipated 10,000+ attendees, 360+ exhibitors, and 250+ speakers, Highways UK offers you a unique opportunity to connect with a large and exceptionally senior audience. It connects every segment of the highways sector: from local authorities and national agencies to private contractors, consultants, academics, and start-ups.

From policy-level decisions to hands-on infrastructure innovations, this year’s event will foster powerful conversations and showcase transformative technologies aimed at making UK roads smarter and more sustainable.

What Makes Highways UK 2025 Unique?

One of the core reasons for the popularity and success of Highways UK is its holistic approach to addressing challenges and opportunities in the sector. It blends a world-class exhibition with a cutting-

edge multi-theatre conference, all while offering attendees curated networking opportunities.

The Conference: A 360-Degree View of the Highways Sector

The event features nine dedicated stages covering a wide array of subjects relevant to the entire highways value chain.

1. Keynote Theatre

2. Big Thinking Stage

3. Strategic Roads Theatre

4. Local Authority Theatre

5. Connected Communities

6. Civils & Materials

7. Digital Roads

8. Network Resilience & Renewal

9. Sustainability Theatre

Start-Ups Zone: Fostering Future Innovators

One of the most dynamic parts of Highways UK is the Start-Ups Zone, where early-stage companies present their game-changing technologies. This dedicated space allows start-ups to pitch

to investors, engage directly with buyers, and gain valuable media exposure.

Dedicated Event Features

Highways UK’s commitment to industry development goes beyond innovation, it’s about people and progress. In the Recruitment Zone, jobseekers and employers come together to explore career opportunities, skills gaps, and the future workforce of highways. Adjacent to this, the Professional Development Hub offers bite-sized learning, expertled sessions, and practical guidance to help professionals at every level grow their knowledge and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving sector. Meanwhile, the Vehicle Display Zone puts cuttingedge machinery and fleet technology centre stage, giving visitors the chance to get hands-on with the vehicles and equipment driving the future of highways, maintenance, and traffic management.

Networking and Business Development

The event is designed to facilitate deep connections. Using the official event app, attendees can:

• Set up 1:1 meetings

• Match with potential collaborators

• Create personalised agendas

• Access digital content post-event

In addition, networking lounges, meetups, and hosted roundtables provide intimate settings to engage with peers, prospects, and policymakers.

Why You Should Attend

Highways UK 2025 isn’t just an exhibition and conference - it’s where strategy meets implementation. It brings together the finest minds and most influential decision- makers to shape the roads of the future. As the UK gears up for another transformative decade in infrastructure development, the event will play a pivotal role in delivering smarter, greener, and more resilient road networks. If you’re part of the highways or broader transport sector, this is the one event you can’t afford to miss.

Register for your FREE ticket today: www.terrapinn.com/ huk2025/Constructionukmag

The UK’s dedicated roads and highways trade show

Bringing together the key stakeholders responsible for planning, delivering, and maintaining the UK’s national and local roads, with growing focus on sustainability, climate resilience, and integrated infrastructure that includes water, energy, and transport systems

15th-16th October 2025

Attend? Featuring new solutions and technologies across every stage of the highways supply chain

360+ Global Exhibitors

250+ Expert Speakers

Industry leaders share their views and expertise across 9 specialised theatres & stages.

10,000+ Senior Attendees

Offering you a unique opportunity to connect with a large and exceptionally senior audience.

Tools, Plant & Equipment News

GRIFFITHS ADDS HEAVY-DUTY CASE CX210E-S EXCAVATOR WITH ADVANCED TECH SPEC

West Wales contractor Hywel Griffiths Plant Hire and Groundworks has added a bespoke CASE CX210E-S crawler excavator to its growing fleet—built for power, precision, and productivity in tough ground conditions.

The 22.5-tonne machine features a reinforced structure, 800mm low ground pressure tracks, Steelwrist X26 tilt-rotator, Topcon GX90 machine control, and 360° cameras. It’s already delivering strong results on a Morganstone housing site near Haverfordwest, combining Stage V engine performance with impressive fuel economy.

“This machine is a game-changer,” said operator Evan Griffiths. “The Topcon system, combined with the tilt-rotator, allows me to grade without repositioning—it’s incredibly efficient.”

The CX210E-S brings CASE’s E-Series control refinement and was supplied by Riverlea Industrial, a trusted dealer relationship spanning nearly 30 years for Griffiths. All machines are maintained under a CASE service plan, shifting support responsibilities to the dealer.

Built in India but sharing drivetrain components with CASE’s Japanese models, the CX210E-S is tailored for durability and performance.

A final aesthetic touch? Custom grey CASE graphics to match Griffiths’ branded fleet.

With a strong order book, Griffiths is already eyeing additional CASE machinery to meet growing demand.

20 YEARS OF ADBLUE: COMMERCIAL FUEL SOLUTIONS MARKS MILESTONE IN UK EMISSIONS INNOVATION

Commercial Fuel Solutions (CFS), the UK’s leading independent AdBlue supplier, is celebrating 20 years of AdBlue in the UK with a nod to its role as a pioneer in diesel emissions reduction.

Founded 18 years ago, CFS’s involvement in the sector predates even its retail launch—former CEO Robin Futcher helped deliver the UK’s first depot dispensing systems for Yara’s initial AdBlue trials with DHL and Next.

Today, CFS supports around 1 in 50 HGVs on British roads and continues to lead with innovative AdBlue handling and storage systems for logistics and heavy plant.

Recent developments include a groundlevel AdBlue filling solution for plant equipment and the BlueBox—a lowercarbon packaging innovation from parent company New Era Energy. The company also authored EI3426, the UK’s first AdBlue forecourt safety standard.

“From those early trials to nationwide supply, we’ve remained committed to solving real-world emissions challenges,” said Paul Norman, Commercial Director.

As the commercial vehicle industry evolves toward cleaner technologies, AdBlue remains a critical bridge—and CFS remains at the forefront of nextgeneration fuelling solutions.

Tools, Plant & Equipment

BAGGED CEMENT IN MID-SIZED CONSTRUCTION

Garry Gregory, Packed Products Director at Tarmac, explores

why bagged cement remains a preferred choice for mid-sized projects.

When it comes to mid-sized construction projects, the selection between bagged and bulk cement plays a pivotal role in influencing logistics, cost-efficiency, and environmental sustainability. While bulk cement often presents cost advantages for large-scale operations, bagged cement offers distinct benefits that align with the nuanced demands of smaller, phased projects.

The

logistics

The conventional 25 kg bag cement size, while heavy, continues to remain the industry standard for regular site labour and facilitate traditional mix ratios. This is for good reason. It’s a format that avoids the complexities associated with smaller sacks that can complicate batching and ratio consistency.

Moreover, when sites operate in phases, such as mortaring, rendering, patching, or localised slab pours, ordering bagged cement enables delivery matched to daily or weekly consumption without committing to large upfront volumes. This reduces the risk of over-ordering, spoilage, or storage issues, especially in urban or space-constrained environments.

While bulk or ready-mix cement often offers lower per-tonne costs, eliminates manual lifting and packaging waste, this cost equation shifts for mid-sized multi-phase work. Minimum order thresholds, short-load fees, and the possibility of unused material erode savings. In these cases, bagged cement parcels keep the project lean, both financially and operationally.

Waste reduction is a significant consideration when using bagged cement in mid-sized construction

projects. Because the material is supplied in pre-measured bags, it can be used incrementally and precisely according to each phase of the build. This phased approach helps sites avoid the common problem of surplus cement being left unused, often stored in damp or unsuitable conditions that can compromise quality.

By minimising leftover cement, projects generate less environmental impact from both unused product and packaging waste. Ultimately, the precise control afforded by bagged cement supports more sustainable construction practices in a way that works for mid-sized projects.

Flexibility and site constraints

Bagged deliveries avoid the need for silos or tanker access, which is particularly advantageous in tight city environments or refurbishment projects where deliveries must suit narrow windows, limited space, or staged reuse of site areas. Delivery flexibility reduces the risk of missed bulk loads derailing phase timing.

Rather than being a fallback when bulk supply isn’t practical, bagged cement in this context is a deliberate delivery model rooted in operational nuance and quality assurance. It embeds control directly into how construction progresses, batch by batch.

As we celebrate 125 years of Blue Circle at Tarmac, we proudly reaffirm our commitment to mid-sized construction projects. As the industry evolves, we’ll continue to adapt to modern building needs and changing standards.

Our goal is to support builders with reliable solutions, helping mid-sized projects thrive and make a lasting impact in the built environment.

In conclusion, while bulk cement may be advantageous for largescale operations, bagged cement offers distinct benefits that align with the specific needs of mid-sized construction projects. By prioritising quality control, logistical flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, bagged cement proves to be a strategic choice for many construction professionals working on mid-sized projects.

Tools, Plant & Equipment

TOOLSTATION AND CT1 TEAM UP FOR EXCLUSIVE VAN GIVEAWAY!

CT1, the UK’s Number 1 Sealant and Adhesive, has partnered with Toolstation, one of Britain’s fastest growing suppliers of tools, accessories and building supplies to the trade, to launch an exclusive competition giving customers the chance to win a brand new Ford Transit Custom (280 L1 2.0 TDCi 136ps EcoBlue) in a striking Magnetic Metallic Grey.

Open to all members of the Toolstation Club, the competition invites customers to sign up and spend £50 or more on CT1 branded products to be entered into the draw.

CT1 with revolutionary TRIBRID® technology has become the product of choice for tradespeople nationwide, while Toolstation continues to support professionals with quality tools, trade essentials and top brands at great value. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment in recognising the vital role of tradespeople across the UK.

A Trusted Favourite

The Ford Transit Custom is a trusted favourite among the trade because it offers a blend of reliability, versatility, and practicality, with a good payload capacity and flexible load space for tools and materials. Its comfort and user friendly features, such as wide opening doors and a load through bulkhead, improve daily usability. With EcoBlue technology, it delivers efficiency and reliability, making it the ideal vehicle for professionals on the move.

Always Here to Back the Trade

“At CT1 we understand the everyday needs of tradespeople - having the best products and the best tools for the job. Our partnership with Toolstation highlights both brands dedication to the community - we are always here to back the trade. And what better way to do that than by giving one lucky customer the keys to a brand new Ford Transit Custom!” said Nicola Walsh (pictured left), Director of Sales and Marketing at CT1.

Competition Details

The competition runs from Monday 8th September - Sunday 30th November 2025 (inclusive). Customers must be signed up to the Toolstation Club and spend at least £50 on CT1 branded products in a single transaction to qualify. The Prize draw will take place on 2nd December 2025. Full terms and conditions can be found at www.toolstation.com/promotions-terms-and-conditions#ct1-win-van

BRICK COLOURS YOU’LL SEE MORE OF IN 2025

This year, the brick colour of the year is silver city, a very pale silver-grey that ‘pulls in design cues from its natural surroundings.’

Brick has long reflected the colours and textures of their natural environment. Before infrastructure allowed us to transport raw materials across the country (and the globe), brickmakers used clay from local quarries and builders used local bricks. Due to variations in regional clay, buildings across the country would display colour differences that harmonised with surrounding nature.

Returning to the brick colour of the year, a silver-grey would look most at home in slate and stone-dominant environments such as Cumbria or Lancashire, or the dramatic granite and schist landscapes of much of Scotland. It can also help soften steel and concrete-heavy surroundings in cities like Manchester, Leeds and Bristol.

Blockleys offers the impactful cool-toned greys Synthesis S09 and Sterling Grey and Floren.be provides delicate pale greys with depth in its Polaris and Alpha facing bricks.

Pastel colour bricks

The prevalence of pastels might feel like a distinctly millennial trend, but we can trace their popularity back to the 18th century when pastel portraits became highly sought after.

Pastel colours have a cyclical presence in design trends. After the Second World

War, the surge of soft, bright hues in decor, cars and fashion reflected postwar optimism. In the 1980s, the global influence of TV show Miami Vice and the vibrant namesake city it portrayed made pastels popular once more. The 2010s boost sprung from cultural shifts and was accelerated by consumer goods branding that favoured openness and softness.

Fast forward to today and pastels are on the rise again in our built environment. You’re unlikely to see ‘millennial pink’ clay bricks but you might see more pale reds and yellows that evoke a soothing and hopeful atmosphere. Floren’s

Alaska Rustic and Warboys Cream and Blockleys’ Penine Buff Wirecut and Park Royal are examples of pastel bricks from the Michelmersh portfolio.

Bold brick colours

While pastels will be a favourite for specifiers, bold brick colours are also likely to see a surge in popularity. Dezeen has reported that a retreat from the minimalism trend will see more ‘dynamic and emotionally engaging designs’ from a ‘collective yearning for authenticity’ which puts vibrant orange and red clay bricks firmly in the picture.

The strengths of clay brick are consistent regardless of colour, but bricks like Michelmersh’s Hampshire Stock Farnham Red and Hampshire Stock Henley Orange can offer a charm reminiscent of classic British buildings. The versatility of bold reds and oranges for both contemporary and heritage designs can be seen in our Design District and Wolverton Hall Folly.

Find your perfect brick colour blend

Not sure how to go about finding the best brick colours for your design? We have multiple resources to make your selection:

• Try our free Façade Designer which lets you visualise any combination of our products, in your specified ratios, in just a few clicks.

• Order our swatchbook, containing every product in our portfolio, to see our full range of colours as well as the most relevant technical information.

• Download building information modelling (BIM) files, available for all our clay brick products, which allow you to see the aesthetic you can achieve with specific colours. Visit: www.mbhplc.co.uk

Kangaroo Words - Image: Paul Riddle

Design District – Image: Beccy Lane

Private House, Belgium

Marlborough Primary School – Image: Paul Riddle

Award-Winning Clay Bricks

Chosen by leading architects, our award-winning bricks unite timeless beauty and proven durability. Whether you are seeking a rich palette of colours, a variety of textures, or refined finishes, Michelmersh’s clay products deliver design freedom and lasting performance. Inspired by precision craftsmanship and quality, each brick contributes to creating projects that inspire and captivate clients.

Website: www.mbhplc.co.uk

Email: sales@mbhplc.co.uk

Telephone: 0844 931 0022

Michelmersh

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR DIGITAL CONSTRUCTION NORTH 2025

Following a successful debut, Digital Construction North returns to Manchester Central on 19 November 2025, uniting 1,000+ AECO professionals for a full day dedicated to innovation in the built environment.

Free to attend, the event will feature 50+ exhibitors, 75+ expert speakers, five content theatres, and eight hours of CPD-certified content. Key themes include AI, BIM, digital twins, automation, asset management, and sustainability — all critical to advancing digital transformation in construction.

Visitors can expect interactive sessions, tech demos, live product launches, and podcast recordings. Leading names like Elecosoft UK, Glider Technology, IFS UK, Revizto,

and Trimble UK will showcase the latest solutions designed to boost efficiency and profitability.

“Last year proved there’s real appetite in the North for a dedicated showcase of AECO innovation,” says Event Director Karolina Orecchini. “This year, we’re going even bigger.”

Networking remains at the heart of the event, with space for Northern AECO meetups and community events.

Spaces are limited and registration is now open. Attendance is vetted and prioritised for AECO professionals in the North directly involved in project delivery.

Register here to be part of the North’s essential industry event.

UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK BIRMINGHAM ANNOUNCES HIGHPROFILE SPEAKER LINE-UP

FOR 10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION

A host of industry leaders, government figures, and innovators will take the stage at the 10th anniversary of UK Construction Week Birmingham, held at the NEC from 30 September to 2 October 2025.

Confirmed speakers include Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, David Atkinson of Willmott Dixon, and Emma Whigham, Director of the NHS New Hospital Programme, among a line-up of 200+ thought leaders tackling the UK’s most pressing built environment challenges.

This year’s programme explores how the construction sector can meet ambitious housing and infrastructure targets through policy reform, digital transformation, decarbonisation, workforce development, and innovation. Sessions will also address safety, regulation, mental health, and funding. Key sessions include:

• “Midlands United”, with Mayor Richard Parker on regional growth and green transition.

• “Turning Policy into Progress”, with Willmott Dixon, Kier Construction and others on whether the sector is ready to meet UK infrastructure targets.

• “Partnering for Health”, on the NHS’s Hospital 2.0 delivery model.

Other highlights cover AI in construction, procurement strategies, affordable housing, and safety at height.

With over 300 exhibitors, face-to-face networking, the Build Connect Lounge, and a show app to pre-book meetings, UKCW Birmingham 2025 is set to be the industry’s most influential event of the year.

To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcwbirmingham-2025/cab-pr

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INTERVIEW WITH ALEX JONES, DIRECTOR AT WALKER MORRIS

Alex Jones is a Director at Walker Morris, specialising in regulatory and construction law. With extensive experience advising developers, housing associations, and contractors on the evolving building safety landscape, Alex brings a practical and insightful perspective to the industry’s most pressing challenges.

In this interview, Alex shares his views on the UK government’s latest Building Safety Regulator (BSR) reforms — from the fast-track approval process to the implications of a single construction regulator — and what they mean for developers navigating a post-Grenfell regulatory environment.

The UK government’s recent BSR reforms aim to accelerate housing delivery. What’s your take on how these changes will practically impact the speed of new-build approvals?

Without specific details on what these reforms will mean, we’re very much in a “watch this space” position. That said, the government’s proposed changes can only be a welcome change to what is generally seen as a stalled process of progress.

Focusing on unlocking delays in the approval process (which have steadily worsened since coming into force in October 2023), the new Fast Track Process, together with additional reinforcements (including plans to recruit a further 100 new staff), should help unlock the delays, clear the backlog, and get approvals moving faster. The added impetus of new leadership to drive this should see that these reforms are successfully implemented sooner rather than later.

However, ultimately, how quickly this works in practice will depend on what

is rolled out and how smoothly the new system is rolled out.

One of the headline announcements was the introduction of a fast-track process. How can developers best position themselves to take advantage of this accelerated pathway?

Whilst it depends on the specifics of the reforms proposed, the most effective course of action for stakeholders is to maintain current best practice for progressing an application through the process and apply those same best practices to the new fast-track process when it becomes live.

Developers (and contractors) should be looking to:

• Get involved with the BSR and engage their multi-disciplinary team as early as possible in the process to mitigate the risk of hold-ups arising later down the line.

• Consider specialist building safety/ gateway advice to support the applications from commencement and through the process;

• Submit clear, complete, and compliant applications and detailed plans which serve to demonstrate realistic compliance with applicable safety requirements.

• Keep an eye out for new guidance from the BSR and industry bodies. For example, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) revealed during recent Parliamentary discussions that the body has led a process to develop a set of guidance notes to support stakeholders. This, and similar guidance, will undoubtedly serve as an invaluable resource for developers travelling through the process.

With over 100 new staff and a leadership overhaul at the BSR, what challenges or opportunities do you foresee in adapting to this revamped regulatory structure?

The new leadership will bring fresh impetus for progress. Noting their serious fire safety backgrounds, it is clear that safety will remain enshrined as the core focus. However, the material benefit of these reforms is that having more people means applications should move faster. The potential for faster processing times is great news for developers stuck waiting in long approval queues where the changes will likely lead to improved engagement (where better resourced) and quicker turnaround times.

Yet with these changes, comes challenges. Bringing in so many new staff is no small feat and will require a lot of training and coordination to ensure consistency. That is not an easy task to effectively implement.

Overall, it’s a big shift, but if the BSR can manage the transition well, it could lead to a more responsive, consistent, and safety-focused regulator.

Continued >>>

The bar has already been raised by the changes brought by the Building Safety Act. Those changes have already been hard to adjust to from a compliance perspective, with a short window of transition afforded to developers and housing associations and a new, faster process will no doubt bring about further challenges.

The recent changes, and the House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee inquiry into the success of the BSR suggest that the UK Government is alive to ensuring the right balance is struck.

You’ve advised developers and housing associations on regulatory reform — what are the immediate compliance challenges they should be preparing for under the new system?

The bar has already been raised by the changes brought by the Building Safety Act. Those changes have already been hard to adjust to from a compliance perspective, with a short window of transition afforded to developers and housing associations and a new, faster process will no doubt bring about further challenges.

However, the difficulty with the new regime is that we don’t yet know what it will fully entail and what developers/ housing associations will need to consider for and under the new process.

To date, there has not been much in the way of guidance provided to stakeholders on successfully navigating the approval process since it has come into force. That has presented challenges for developers/ housing associations who have no clear idea as to expectations and that will remain the case without better access to information and greater engagement by the BSR.

However, with a faster turnaround process expected, we can anticipate that stakeholders will be expected to buy into a quicker approach (meaning quicker turnaround times for application responses, and shorter deadlines). If that is the case, what is needed is better guidance for developers to align with the new processes where better guidance to support stakeholders through the process will enable them to understand the process and comply with the requirements and timescales of the BSR which will no doubt become quicker with the new, fast track process.

The reforms move toward a single construction regulator, as recommended by the Grenfell Inquiry. What are the implications of this shift, both for the industry and for public trust in building safety?

This change simplifies things. Instead of dealing with multiple bodies, there’s now one clear authority and one clear, centralised expectation as to requirements.

For developers, that means fewer mixed messages and more consistency. You’ll know exactly who to deal with and what’s expected.

For the public, it could help rebuild trust. After the Grenfell tragedy, confidence in the system was shaken. The changes, led by experienced fire safety figures like Andy Roe and Charlie Pugsley sends a strong message that there is a clear desire to create a clearer, more accountable system.

Of course, the real test will be in how this new structure performs. But if it delivers on its promise, it could mark a turning point for both the industry and the people who live in these buildings.

How do you see the balance playing out between faster housing delivery and maintaining the rigorous safety standards demanded post-Grenfell?

This is the material challenge of these changes, and the right balance has to be struck. However, what cannot be compromised is the safety of the buildings being constructed and any changes need to enshrine this mantra, whilst enabling effective and expedient delivery. With the leadership team now in place, I expect that safety will be the foundation of the regime, with enhancements to promote delivery only introduced where they complement, rather than compromise safety. The Fast Track Process feeds into this approach,

Looking ahead, these reforms are likely to shape construction law and policy in some fundamental ways, especially regarding accountability and enforcement.

where it is meant to boost capacity, not at the expense of lowering standards. Keeping that balance will take strong and regular oversight, good training, and clear performance tracking of what is working and what isn’t. The recent changes, and the House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee inquiry into the success of the BSR suggest that the UK Government is alive to ensuring the right balance is struck.

Considering these changes, what should legal and compliance teams within construction firms be doing differently right now?

As and when more detail materialises, legal and compliance teams should look to shift into a proactive role to be ready. With a view to hitting the ground running for when the reforms come into play, now’s the time to:

• Consider the current state of play with your existing applications – what’s working, and what isn’t

• Review your current processes and best practices.

• Ensure your teams are trained up and knowledgeable about current regulatory requirements so that they can move fast when new changes arise

• Keep tabs on how the BSR plans to enforce the new standards.

• Be ready to provide more detailed, and potentially different documentation when needed.

With Andy Roe and Charlie Pugsley leading the reformed BSR, what signals do you think their appointments send about the future direction of the regulator?

Both have deep experience in fire safety and enforcement. Given their backgrounds, their leadership suggests the UK Government and the BSR are serious about putting safety and accountability at the heart of the construction industry.

Andy Roe’s comments on appointment confirm as much where he said: “I look forward to working with colleagues both in industry and the BSR to tackle the current issues and delays head on and help get those homes built safely.”

Their appointments confirm that safety isn’t just about ticking boxes anymore. It’s about making sure buildings are genuinely safe, and that those responsible for delivering them are accountable with a safety-first culture central.

Do you expect these reforms to have a noticeable impact on investor and developer confidence in the UK housing market?

In simple terms, they absolutely should improve confidence in the sector.

The changes brought by the Building Safety Act, whilst welcome, have created uncertainty around planning for and delivering projects. That uncertainty has been compounded by ever increasing delays in the system since the Gateway Regime became fully effective in October 2023.

Of course, confidence will depend on how well the new system works in practice.

If the BSR can deliver faster approvals from the get-go with appropriate and

better engagement with stakeholders (whilst not compromising safety), then we’re likely to see a real boost in sentiment across the board.

Looking ahead, how might these changes influence longer-term trends in construction law and policy — particularly around accountability and enforcement?

Looking ahead, these reforms are likely to shape construction law and policy in some fundamental ways, especially regarding accountability and enforcement.

We’ve now moved into (and continue to move deeper into) an era where compliance isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. The new system, which is being enhanced by these reforms, puts a

much stronger emphasis on proving that buildings are safe right from the design stage through to completion. That’s influencing and will continue to influence how contracts are written, how risk is managed, and how responsibilities are shared across project teams.

We’ll also likely see tougher enforcement. With a single, central regulator and a new leadership team who have serious fire safety and enforcement backgrounds, there’s a clear signal that non-compliance will be treated seriously. That could mean more investigations, more penalties, and a greater focus on holding individuals (not just companies) accountable when things go wrong.

Further, the regulatory regime only covers Higher Risk Buildings. However, if the enhanced and updated regime can be successfully implemented such that the process is significantly improved with better process times, greater awareness of requirements all whilst maintaining safety; the success of these reforms could lay the groundwork for the wider implementation of the regulatory regime across the construction industry more broadly. If that happens, legal teams and businesses across the industry will need to have greater awareness of the changes and the process generally.

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BUILDING ON SOLID GROUND: WEIGHING

CARBON AND LAND-USE

IN CEMENT STABILISATION

Carbon and Land-Use Impacts: Cement-Stabilised Ground vs. Aggregates

Choosing between in-situ ground stabilisation using cement and cementbased binders and the use of imported aggregates is often seen as a cost or technical performance decision. Increasingly though, carbon footprint and land-use consequences are becoming just as critical.

Carbon Emissions: Cement-Based Stabilisation

In-situ cement-based ground stabilisation improves ground strength by mixing existing soils with cement or proprietary binders. The challenge? Cement’s significant carbon footprint.

Manufacturing 1 tonne of cement emits around 0.8–1 tonne of CO₂ due to chemical reactions in limestone calcination and energy-intensive kiln firing. In stabilisation applications, emissions can be estimated at around 80 kg CO₂ per m³, depending on mix and binder ratio and this number excludes the CO2 used by the heavy plant needed to carry out the process.

Although using in-situ material reduces haulage emissions, cement’s embodied carbon outweighs these savings, making it a carbon-intensive method overall.

VS. AGGREGATE SOLUTIONS

Carbon Impact: Aggregates

Natural, secondary, and recycled aggregates have a much lower inherent carbon footprint. Their extraction, processing, and transport typically emits less than 20-40 kg CO₂ per m³. Even with transportation factored in, total emissions remain far below those of cement-stabilised material.

However, aggregates can bring other environmental considerations. Quarrying and transporting materials consume fuel and contribute to traffic-related emissions. Moreover, excessive extraction of primary can lead to significant local environmental consequences, including habitat loss, increased dust levels, and noise pollution, so recycled or manufactured aggregates are generally the preferred environmental option.

Despite this, their overall carbon impact is considerably lower than cement-based stabilisation.

Land-Use Consequences

A critical and often overlooked factor is land reversibility. Cement-stabilised ground undergoes a chemical and structural transformation, turning the soil into a composite material. This change is permanent, rendering the land unsuitable for future agricultural use or ecological restoration due to altered soil permeability and profile.

In contrast, aggregate bases are removable and recyclable. Once removed,

Natural, secondary, and recycled aggregates have a much lower inherent carbon footprint.

the land can often be reinstated with topsoil and returned to previous uses. This flexibility is essential for projects with long-term agricultural or environmental goals.

In Summary

Cement stabilisation offers engineering solutions; however, its high carbon footprint and irreversible land change make it a less sustainable option for projects seeking to minimise emissions and preserve future land use. Aggregates, despite requiring transport, provide a lower-carbon solution with greater landuse flexibility often a decisive advantage for sustainable development.

Adam Day

Insurance NEARLY HALF OF ALL UK COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES ARE ESTIMATED TO BE UNDERINSURED

• Inflation, in particular the cost of materials and increased labour prices are causing widespread commercial property underinsurance with many owners failing to keep pace

• Research amongst insurance claims managers reveals that nearly half (46%) of commercial properties are estimated to be underinsured

• The average shortfall in cover is around 40%, leaving property owners at significant financial risk

• Nearly seven in ten (67%) claims managers have been forced to reduce or reject claims in the last year due to underinsurance

• Gallagher is urging UK property owners to work with an experienced broker to ensure their properties are correctly valued

Research from insurance broker and risk management company Gallagher has revealed that over four in ten (46%) of commercial properties are underinsured, with the average shortfall being 40%.

The significant gap between the correct valuation of properties is being caused by the UK’s lengthy inflationary environment with the cost of materials alone increasing by 36% since 2020 and labour costs up 7% in just the last year.

According to claims managers, these are the two biggest contributing factors leading to the current underinsurance problem with six in ten (63%) citing the rising cost of materials and half calling out labour prices (50%), which are exacerbated by current challenges such as supply chain disruption, raw material shortages and worker shortages.

The majority of claims managers (62%) report the issue has got progressively

worse over the last five years, meaning they are having to have difficult conversations with underinsured property owners with 67% in total saying they have had to adjust or refuse a payout.

In the instance that insurance does not cover the full repair or rebuild cost, or reinstatement, owners could find themselves having to borrow money to foot some of the costs when budgets are already stretched, and it could also increase the risk of an extended period of business interruption.

The significant majority (96%) of claims managers reported that commercial property rebuild and repair times have increased over the last five years with all of the claims managers interviewed saying this is having a knock on effect on business closure or interruption periods.

As a result, the majority (54%) of claims managers say that currently business interruption cover is either sometimes or always not adequate against the backdrop of these increased repair and rebuild times.

Over three in 10 claims managers (37%) said that underinsurance was being driven by commercial property owners not carrying out regular valuations of their premises, which it is recommended they do every three years.

Phil Daly, Claims Director at Gallagher, said: “This data shows how important it is for property owners to work with a risk management specialist when insuring their property as those they don’t are leaving themselves at significant financial risk. Clearly, our research shows that the issue of underinsurance is not going away and has actually increased over the last five years.

“This poses a significant threat to businesses who may find themselves having to foot some of the costs of rebuilding or repairing their premises. Challenges such as supply chain disruption and increased demand for materials means that owners could face longer repair times, which carries a serious risk of business interruption.

“Gallagher works with commercial property owners to ensure they are carrying out regular valuations so that they can find the appropriate insurance cover they need, and brokers can also advise on suitable business interruption insurance periods to ensure that should they need to make a claim that are protected. It is crucial for commercial property owners to take the appropriate measures so that they don’t leave themselves vulnerable to loss.”

Scan the QR code left to find out more.

HOW TOKENISATION COULD RESHAPE CONSTRUCTION FINANCE

By Jordan Myers, founder and CEO of EcoYield

The construction sector is no stranger to financial strain, as it continues to face ongoing challenges around cashflow and on-time payments within the supply chain.

Contractors often wait over 120 days for invoices to be settled, while developers juggle complex funding arrangements and rising project costs. These issues are not new, but they remain some of the biggest barriers to productivity and stability in the industry, and traditional finance is not always able to keep pace.

At the same time, new financial technologies are beginning to open alternative routes to capital and are helping to reshape the way projects are financed and delivered. One of the most promising of these is tokenisation, which involves a process of converting real-world assets or revenue streams into digital tokens recorded securely on a blockchain. Those tokens can

represent ownership, rights to future cashflows, or a stake in a project.

For construction, tokenisation can transform how projects are funded and how payments flow across the supply chain. Instead of relying solely on banks or large institutions, developers could issue tokens linked to a project, which a wider pool of investors can buy into.

The aim is not to replace traditional finance, but to complement it by providing an additional route to capital.

One of the biggest challenges faced by subcontractors is trust and being asked to deliver labour and

Jordan Myers, founder and CEO of EcoYield

materials on the promise of future payment. Tokenisation can change this dynamic by creating transparent, on-chain records of commitments and cashflows. Smart contracts can release payments automatically once milestones are achieved, helping to improve cashflow and reducing disputes.

At EcoYield, we’re already demonstrating this model in practice. Our platform tokenises renewablepowered infrastructure – we may work with a solar farm that’s combined with an AI data centre for example, whereby our platform would enable investors to fund the project directly.

Rather than capital flowing slowly through a chain of banks, intermediaries, and paymasters, digital tokens would enable direct participation by a wider investor base, who would then earn a share of revenue through tokenised vaults. Pension funds, impact investors, or even local communities could invest directly into tokenised construction projects, aligning financing with real demand.

There’s also a growing opportunity to align construction with clean energy. Tokenised funding models are already being used to support renewable infrastructure. Contractors could access capital not just for bricks and mortar, but also for embedded clean energy systems that improve longterm project sustainability and reduce operating costs.

Scepticism is understandable. Construction has seen too many ‘silver bullets’ come and go, and blockchain is often associated with speculative markets. But tokenisation is not about hype. When implemented properly, it is about transparency, efficiency, and trust. Every transaction is visible, every distribution is auditable, and investors and subcontractors alike are protected by smart contract logic.

The next decade will be critical. Tokenisation won’t replace traditional finance, but it has the potential to sit alongside it as a powerful tool, one that helps the construction industry unlock capital faster. Those who engage early will be best placed to benefit when adoption accelerates.

People On The Move

NEW DIGITAL MEASURED SURVEY SERVICE WITH KEY APPOINTMENT

International construction and property consultancy Thomas & Adamson, part of Egis Group, has appointed a lead digital measurement surveyor to spearhead its new geospatial measurement service, further strengthening its capabilities across the UK.

Based in Glasgow, Matthew McQuillian brings over 20 years of experience in surveying and spatial data capture. He previously held the role of principal surveyor at Malcolm Hughes Land Surveyors, where he managed technical teams delivering complex measurement projects for clients in construction, infrastructure, defence and heritage sectors.

In his new role, Matthew will lead the rollout of the new digital measured surveys offering, drawing on his expertise in techniques such as 3D laser scanning, drone surveys, and traditional land surveying. The offering includes measured building surveys, topographical

surveys, structural monitoring, and the creation of 3D models, all designed to provide clients with more accurate data, quicker turnaround times, and clearer insights to inform decision-making at every stage of a project.

For the first time in the UK, Egis and Thomas & Adamson will offer these

SAFETY SHIELD GLOBAL APPOINTS FORMER BALFOUR BEATTY DIRECTOR SEAN SCARAH AS NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER THOMAS & ADAMSON LAUNCH

Safety Shield Global, the pioneering force in AI-powered safety solutions for People Plant Interface (PPI), has announced the appointment of Sean Scarah as its new Chief Operating Officer with immediate effect.

The vastly experienced former Balfour Beatty director, who has more than 37 years’ operational leadership expertise in the plant industry, takes on the newly created role as part of Safety Shield Global’s long-term strategic growth plan.

Sean, who has spent the last 16 years working as Director of Plant and Logistics at Balfour Beatty, also has valuable experience within the plant rental sector, having worked for Sunbelt Rentals for over 12 years, where he played a leading role in the

capabilities in-house and have made a significant investment in cutting-edge technology.

By integrating geospatial services with its existing building surveying provision, the firm can now offer clients a more streamlined and efficient approach across the UK.

development of technology-based safety systems and initiatives.

He will work closely with another recent arrival from Balfour Beatty, Richard Mason, who has left his role as Product Manager with the Tier 1 contractor to take up the position of International Operations Director at Safety Shield Global.

Sean comments: “I am thrilled to join Safety Shield Global at such an exciting time, and I’m really looking forward to contributing to its continued success and expansion.

“I have always been passionate about safety in the industry and enjoyed some real success in raising the industry standard. Working alongside Safety Shield Global for many years, I know only too well how their products have been a real game-changer in setting safety standards.

“Some of the leading tier contractors, like Balfour Beatty, AmcoGiffen, Skanska, and mega projects, like HS2 and Sizewell C, have now mandated the technology across their fleets, and I have witnessed first-hand the level of impact it will have in redefining safety standards across highrisk industries globally.

THE ULTIMATE SURFACE SOLUTIONS FOR MODERN CONSTRUCTION Tools, Plant & Equipment

At Polybound, we are more than a supplier; we are your trusted partner in delivering high-quality surfacing solutions. Our mission is rooted in innovation, reliability, and support. Whether you are a seasoned contractor or a homeowner tackling your first project, we aim to provide everything you need to achieve a flawless, longlasting result. Every surface we create together reflects not only strength and style but also sustainability and modern performance.

Professional Resin Systems

At the heart of our offering is a complete range of professional-grade surfacing systems designed to meet the highest standards. Our resin bound surfaces combine natural aggregates with advanced resin technology to deliver a permeable, durable finish. SUDScompliant, these installations allow water to drain freely, preventing puddles and reducing flood risks. They are ideal for driveways, paths, and car parks where safety and appearance are equally important.

For projects requiring a non-permeable option, our resin bonded systems provide a cost-effective alternative. With their textured, anti-slip qualities, they are particularly suitable for high-traffic zones where grip and resilience matter. Both systems are engineered for strength, weather resistance, and visual appeal, giving clients confidence in the end result.

Inside the home or workplace, our stone carpet flooring is a sophisticated choice.

Blending stunning marble colours, it offers a contemporary, low-maintenance surface resistant to cracking and fading. Perfect for offices, retail environments, or stylish residential interiors, it delivers both practicality and premium design.

For landscaping and recreational projects, our rubber surfacing range excels. PolyMulch provides a cushioned, safe, and vibrant surface for playgrounds and gardens, while our Polyflex products deliver impact-absorbent solutions trusted by schools and sports facilities. To make application seamless, we also supply essential tools, mixers, and trowels, ensuring every installation is completed to a professional standard.

DIY Resin Kits

While we specialise in trade supply, we also empower DIY enthusiasts. Our easy-to-use resin kits take the complexity out of surfacing projects. Each kit contains pre-measured resin and aggregate, tailored to cover a specific area accurately. This reduces waste, eliminates guesswork, and makes professional-quality finishes accessible to anyone.

Our popular UVR Resin Kits are engineered to withstand sunlight without fading, ensuring paths, patios, and garden areas remain vibrant for years. With step-by-step instructions, homeowners can confidently transform outdoor spaces over a single weekend and achieve results that look professionally installed.

Your Go-To Surfacing Partner

Polybound stands out because we combine professional expertise with user-friendly solutions. By catering to both major construction projects and smaller home makeovers, we position ourselves as the go-to name for surfacing. Our promise is simple: quality, reliability, and support from start to finish.

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Partner with Polybound to take your projects to the next level. Explore our full range of systems, tools, and training opportunities on our website and discover why so many trust us as their surface solutions partner of choice.

VICAIMA REVOLUTIONIZES CUSTOMER SUPPORT AND SERVICE AUTOMATION WITH ITS TRANSFORMATIONAL AI CHATBOT

In an era where flexible working is now the norm and technological advancement moves at an astonishing pace, Vicaima has fully embraced their AI-driven knowledge base, Vicaima24/7 as an integral tool for customer support. This innovative aid is not just a testament to Vicaima’s commitment to customer-centric innovation but a leap forward in providing round-theclock support and answers to customer queries.

Enhanced Customer Service:

Vicaima24/7 stands out as a cuttingedge solution for providing continuous support and rapid responses to customer inquiries, considerably improving the user experience. This AI-driven tool is designed to seamlessly answer questions, guiding users to a wealth of information spread across installation instructions, maintenance advice, technical datasheets, and many other resources, thus ensuring customer queries are handled efficiently and effectively.

Service Automation: Unlike static websites, Vicaima24/7 is a dynamic, evolving platform. It automates repetitive tasks and customer service processes, saving valuable time and resources. This evolution in service means that Vicaima can adapt to changing market needs and advancements in its own product and service offerings, ensuring that the information and support provided are always up-to-date and relevant.

24/7 Availability: One of the standout features of Vicaima24/7 is its round-theclock availability. Customers can access this service anytime, anywhere, which is crucial in a global market with varying time zones. This constant availability

ensures that support is always at hand, even outside conventional office hours, thus enhancing the accessibility and convenience of customer support.

Efficient Customer Relationship Management: Vicaima24/7 is more than just a chatbot; it’s a tool for more efficient and personalized customer relationship management. By providing immediate and relevant responses, it helps build a stronger connection between Vicaima and its customers, fostering loyalty.

Adapting and Enhancing Through Systematic Updates: A crucial aspect of this automated solution is its capacity for adaptation and enhancement, aligning with the evolving needs of customers and specifiers. While the core functionality of Vicaima24/7 depends on its meticulously curated knowledge base, the commitment goes beyond static information. Vicaima are dedicated to systematically updating this base, ensuring that the information remains relevant, comprehensive, and in step with the latest developments in performance timber door systems and customer needs.

Parallel to these updates, the chatbot tool itself undergoes continuous improvements. These enhancements are not just in response to technological advancements in AI and chatbot functionalities but also reflect previous customer interactions and feedback.

Unlike static websites, Vicaima24/7 is a dynamic, evolving platform.

This dual approach of updating the knowledge base and refining the tool ensures that Vicaima24/7 remains a dynamic, responsive, and cutting-edge solution today and tomorrow.

To experience the benefits of Vicaima24/7, simply visit www.vicaima.com (select United Kingdom version) and look bottom right, for the bubble icon. Start a conversation by typing your query and receive immediate answers. For those who prefer spoken communication, a voice option is also available. General advice is always accessible via Vicaima24/7, or alternatively, contact info@vicaima.com or Tel: +44 (0) 1793 532333.

Vicaima24/7 is more than a chatbot; it’s a symbol of Vicaima’s unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and technological excellence.

The site safety tool that plugs into Procore.

Show Preview: London PropTech Show

LONDON PROPTECH SHOW OPENS COMPLIMENTARY VISITOR REGISTRATIONS FOR 2025 EDITION

Free visitor registration is now open for the highly anticipated London PropTech Show 2025, set to take place at Excel London on October 1–2, 2025. With just two months to go, its third edition is shaping up to be its most impactful yet. Uniting the most influential voices in property technology for two days of groundbreaking innovation, strategic dialogue, and high-value networking.

With over 3,000 attendees, over 70 exhibitors, 70 speakers, and 30 media partners and 100’s of qualified buyers & proptech investors expected from across Europe and beyond, the London PropTech Show 2025 stands as the premier platform for exploring the technologies transforming the real estate industry. From smart cities to AI-driven buildings and decarbonisation, the show serves as a vital intersection for property developers, proptech founders, policymakers, investors, and enterprise tech leaders.

This year’s agenda features a robust conference programme tackling the most urgent challenges and opportunities in real estate technology, from net-zero urbanism and smart infrastructure to digital construction and venture trends in PropTech. Attendees will hear first-hand from thought leaders from organisations including; JLL, Colliers, The City of London, Places for London, Innovate UK, British Property Federation, Gensler, Mace and more.

The conference sessions are not only informative but also interactive, sparking conversations that extend beyond the stage. Attendees will leave with new connections, collaborations and a clearer understanding of the innovations in real estate.

The exhibition floor offers a curated experience of the most exciting innovations in the PropTech space. Visitors can explore transformative technologies from companies encompassing automation, digital surveying, AI-powered platforms, and sustainable retrofitting solutions.

Also joining the line-up are emerging innovators like Budgerty, Data Technology, Dinggly, SpeedSight, and Credas, ensuring that the exhibition showcases not just established players but also agile disruptors redefining the rules of engagement in real estate.

Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of the global PropTech movement...

Beyond the exhibitions and speaker sessions, the London PropTech Show is a catalyst for meaningful, resultsdriven networking. The event allows professionals from across the real estate technology space to build strategic partnerships and engage in high-impact dialogue. The London PropTech Show has become an important event for those looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving property landscape. Whether you’re leading digital transformation at a major real estate firm, advising on smart city infrastructure, or investing in the next wave of PropTech solutions, this event offers unparalleled access to the ideas and people driving the industry forward.

Visitor Registration is free and now open. Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of the global PropTech movement and connect with thousands of peers shaping the future of real estate.

Secure your spot and view the full speaker and exhibitor lineup at: https://tinyurl.com/3ntpe2r9

Scan To Register

BUILDING A DIGITAL FUTURE: ATTRACTING GEN Z TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

By Rob Norton, UK Director, PlanRadar

The UK’s construction industry is facing an urgent challenge. An ageing workforce and a major skills gap are threatening the sector’s vitality. With over 140,000 jobs currently unfilled, and an estimated need for 47,000 new recruits annually for the next five years, the serious consequences of this shortfall like project delays, escalating costs, and missed opportunities, are becoming increasingly clear.

But the solution isn’t far away. It’s a generation of digital natives who spend hours a day on their devices. Believe it or not, this is a valuable and flexible skillset held by an entire generation of young people who have the potential to transform our industry from the ground up. Their fluency with technology is key to building a smarter, faster, and more resilient construction sector.

Meet Gen Z: The digital powerhouse

Today’s 13- to 18-year-olds are fluent in apps, cloud platforms, and instant communication. They’re natural problem-solvers, comfortable with rapid change. And, right now, with GCSE results now in, they’re thinking about their future and looking for fresh purpose. Why wouldn’t we want them on our sites and in our offices?

After all, in the last decade, digital transformation has truly gathered pace, making Gen Z’s digital fluency a significant yet currently untapped asset for the construction industry.

Norton, UK Director, PlanRadar

Yet, too often, outdated images and stereotypes dominate. We need to show Gen Z that construction is a sector where digital skills are valued, where innovation is the new normal in a rapidly evolving industry, and where they can build a meaningful career.

Digitalisation: The game changer

Forget the stereotype of construction as a world apart from technology. Digital transformation is laying new foundations for our industry. From Building Information Modelling (BIM) and drones, to AI and realtime collaboration tools, technology is

reshaping how we work. According to the RICS Digitalisation in Construction report (2024), digital adoption is accelerating, streamlining workflows and boosting safety.

To fully realise the potential of these new technologies, we need a workforce that’s not just willing, but eager to use them. While younger generations are particularly receptive to these changes, the good news is that digital fluency is a skill that can be developed across all age groups. After all, if you can use an app like WhatsApp, you can likely use many of today’s construction collaboration platforms. It’s about showing the entire workforce that these tools are intuitive and that their use can improve everyday workflows.

Their comfort and ease with digital tools can help supercharge our productivity, drive innovation, and future-proof our sector.

It’s time to act – Embrace change, attract talent

There’s no time like the present. If we want to plug the skills gap, we must ditch old stereotypes and face a new reality. Construction is increasingly digital and dynamic. It’s a place where young people can thrive, innovate, and make a real impact.

To school leavers, know that your digital skills are exactly what our industry needs. You can help shape skylines, solve real-world problems, and build the homes our country depends on –driving the next wave of progress.

To industry leaders, it’s time to invest in technology and people, and think hard about how to attract the next generation of builders. It starts by creating flexible, tech-enabled workplaces that attract and retain the best talent.

The future of construction is being written right now, in code, in data, and in the hands and in the headspace of Gen Z. Let’s get busy building.

Rob

BUILDING WITH CONFIDENCE:

HIGH-PRECISION MONITORING FROM GVL

In construction, even the smallest movement can cause big problems. That’s why accuracy, reliability, and early warning are essential for project success.

Geospatial Ventures Limited (GVL) is helping the sector build smarter with cutting-edge monitoring solutions that combine GNSS (satellite navigation) and InSAR (satellite radar imaging). Together, these technologies deliver centimetre-level accuracy and continuous ground-movement monitoring, giving contractors, engineers, and project managers the insights they need to stay ahead of costly risks.

GVL’s expertise is proven. Our solutions have already been deployed to monitor ground settlement along the A57 Snake Pass, and to support innovation projects such as the Coventry Very Light Rail test track in Dudley. These real-world applications show how satelliteenabled monitoring can safeguard infrastructure, reduce rework, and keep projects on track.

Whether it’s detecting settlement around foundations, tracking stability near rail or roadworks, or monitoring large infrastructure builds, GVL’s trusted systems deliver measurable value—helping the construction industry work faster, safer, and more cost-effectively.

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With a strong track record across transport, infrastructure, and environmental sectors, GVL brings satellite-enabled innovation directly to construction sites of every scale. Our mission is simple: to give the construction industry the confidence that comes from precision monitoring.

Get in touch to find out more and benefit from a 1 month free trial of our GVL FIX ONE GNSS monitoring device.

info@geospatialventures.co.uk www.geospatialventures.co.uk +44 7881 336841

1,000 SMALL BUILDERS ARE OFFERED THE CHANCE TO LEARN NEW IT SKILLS - FOR FREE

After a successful trial involving 50 tradespeople, Maria Coulter, an awardwinning Business Coach from Leicester, is inviting 1,000 SME construction and trade businesses to join a free, CITBfunded course in IT training called “Solving Tech for Small Builders”.

“Understanding IT and how it can help your small business can be the difference between success and failure,” said Maria, who has spent over a decade helping small firms overcome the hurdles they face.

“This is about helping builders stand out through professionalism, pricing confidence and better systems.

“The right technology, used in the right way, can save money, free up time and give you the confidence to grow. It is not about pushing one piece of software for everyone. It is about finding what works best for each business.”

The IT programme covers:

• How to find out where your business is losing time, money and reputation

• Advice on choosing the right tech for your business, from AI assistants to Project Management systems.

• Tips for using tech to price your projects, manage your clients relationships and your workforce

• Fortnightly live Zoom sessions and recorded lessons you can watch back whenever you need.

“Think of it like an IT toolkit,” said Maria. “You’d reach for a hammer or screwdriver, so I want small builders to see IT as an extension of those tools.”

The trialled IT programme was funded by the CITB Impact Fund and the feedback has been very positive, confidence levels have doubled in finding the right tech and embedding it into their business. The funding also covers the online version of the course, starting this September. Businesses can sign up at: solvingconstruction.com

Another key part of the programme is building a community. Participants will join a network of other small business owners who are on the same journey, sharing ideas and solutions to help each other succeed.

Of a million small construction companies in Britain - most with fewer than 50 employees - 94% still rely on spreadsheets for tasks such as admin, estimating and planning.

“That needs to change,” said Maria, “and hopefully this course will be one giant step in the right direction.”

Gav Brown

THINK TIMBER CALLS FOR A MORE TRANSPARENT

SUPPLY CHAIN

A recent investigation by Source Certain, has uncovered that timber illegally sourced from Russia has entered the UK housing supply chain.

With effect from 2022, imports of Russian timber have been banned. However, this smuggling operation concealed the wood’s true origin, falsely labelling it as sourced from the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania).

This is a wake-up call for the housing sector. This illegal trade has not only broken international sanctions but also damaged the integrity of the housing supply chain. Other suppliers who invest in responsible sourcing face higher operational costs to maintain compliance, yet when illicit materials so easily enter the market undetected, their efforts risk being undermined.

For housebuilders, the challenge lies in knowing which products are genuinely legal and responsibly sourced, and which are not. To address this, Think Timber, a strategic partner to the timber staircase sector, has developed bespoke packaging featuring a unique QR code. When scanned, the code provides sourced to origin traceability, showing the timber’s journey from the forest which it was sourced to the building site.

Maria Coulter

MINISTERS MUST ENSURE TENANTS BENEFIT FROM PROPOSED ENERGY EFFICIENCY RULES, WARNS SCOTTISH HOUSING, FUEL POVERTY

& CONSUMER GROUP

In their response to a recent consultation on new energy efficiency standards, the Existing Homes Alliance (EHA) welcomed the Scottish Government’s commitment to introducing minimum energy efficiency standards for private rented homes. The group expressed support for elements of the planned regulations, highlighting that the proposals will drive the essential fabric upgrades needed to reduce energy demand, cutting fuel poverty and greenhouse gas emissions at the same time.

However, the Alliance warned that without appropriate protections in the Housing Bill that is currently being considered by the Scottish Parliament, there is a risk that the costs of meeting the standard will be passed on to tenants – potentially undermining efforts to tackle fuel poverty.

The Alliance goes on to highlight that excluding holiday lets from meeting the new standard risks exacerbating an already severe housing crisis, potentially encouraging private landlords to switch from providing homes to short term lets and holiday accommodation.

There is also concern that Scottish tenants will have to wait longer than their English counterparts for energy efficient homes, with the proposed date for all private rented homes meeting the new standard of EPC HHR rating of C slipping from 2028 to 2033. This compares to a proposed date of 2030 for England private rented homes to meet EPC Band C.

The EHA is calling on the Scottish Government to amend its proposals to recognise the links with the Housing Bill and to ensure tenants are not worst off as a result of important and necessary energy efficiency improvements.

For more information visit: existinghomesalliancescotland.co.uk

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.

GAME-CHANGING PARTNERSHIP

SET TO POWER UP CAREERS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

ASSA ABLOY DOOR GROUP SUPPORTS

CAREER DEVELOPMENT WITH TWO INTERNAL SECONDMENTS

ASSA ABLOY Door Group has reinforced its commitment to developing skills and career prospects through its six-month secondment programme. Project Engineers, Ben Brown and Jordan Lyttle will be focusing on sales roles as part of the scheme, exploring a different side of the business to develop skills in the area.

Ben has been part of Door Group for over six years and will be transitioning from his project engineer role into a secondment opportunity within the sales team, focusing on after-sales support. With a strong engineering background and an understanding of the company’s product offering, Ben will be well positioned to use his technical expertise and customer experience to build lasting client relationships. He will be working closely with internal teams to ensure a smooth, reliable experience from start to finish.

After working as a project engineer at Door Group for two years, Jordan will be working with the sales team, focusing on new door sales, allowing him to balance technical detail with a more strategic, customer-focused approach. With hands-on experience from the shop floor and a strong technical background, Jordan brings valuable insight into the company’s products and processes. His focus will be understanding customer needs and delivering tailored solutions that add real value.

Students at Trafford & Stockport College Group are set to benefit from a major new partnership with the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIoT). This landmark initiative brings together some of the region’s best colleges, universities and global employers to deliver worldclass technical education.

The GMIoT is designed to put Greater Manchester at the forefront of skills and innovation, with leading industry names such as Siemens, Laing O’Rourke, and GCHQ working alongside education providers to shape courses that meet the needs of fast-growing industries.

Through this partnership, students at Trafford & Stockport College Group will gain access to industry-aligned technical qualifications co-designed with employers, ensuring direct relevance to emerging and future job markets.

This collaboration empowers learners to pursue high-value career pathways in sectors such as construction, engineering, digital technologies, and cyber security. Enhanced by stateof-the-art facilities and immersive, real-world learning environments, the initiative equips students with in-demand skills, industry insight and connections that make a real difference when starting their careers. It will also provide employers with a pipeline of workforce-ready talent prepared to meet the evolving demands of the modern economy.

For more information about the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology, visit: www.gmiot.ac.uk

FARRANS OPENS APPLICATIONS FOR 40 GRADUATE AND PLACEMENT POSITIONS

Farrans Construction has opened its application process for 40 highly sought after positions on its graduate programme, Farrans Foundation, with intake dates in June and September 2026.

The company is also recruiting for undergraduate placement roles with opportunities based in Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland and England. The application process will remain open until 1st December 2025, with interviews starting in October. Offers will be made in December and January.

Farrans Foundation is a two-year graduate programme which provides applicants with the necessary experience and knowledge to fast track their career in construction, quantity surveying and civil engineering. With a blend of classroom-based learning and on-site experience, this is the starting point on the journey to becoming future industry leaders.

A small number of undergraduate placement opportunities are also available in civil engineering, construction management, quantity surveying, quality and IT, which provide a great insight into what a career in the construction industry is like.

High performers are offered bursaries to support with final year study and they will have the offer of full-time employment once they have graduated which will automatically enrol them in Farrans Foundation two-year graduate programme.

To submit an application, please visit www.farrans.com/graduates for graduates, and www.farrans.com/placements for placements.

Training & Education News

NEXT GENERATION BUILDERS –APPRENTICES FIT OUT NEW BELLWAY HOME IN MANCHESTER

A team of apprentices, working under supervision, have fitted out a new four-bedroom home in an innovative project run by Bellway.

The group of apprentices, including trainee joiners, electricians, tilers and painters, were monitored but worked independently on the detached Scrivener house type at the developer’s Hopwood Meadows development in Heywood, near Manchester.

The Apprentice House is one of 156 new homes Bellway’s Manchester division is delivering at the site, off Manchester Road, which forms part of the wider South Heywood Masterplan scheme.

The project began after the superstructure of the property was complete, with the apprentices working on the interior of the building at the ‘first-fix’ stage –when wiring and piping is installed – and on the ‘second-fix’ or post-plaster stage, which includes the installation of sinks, baths and other fixtures such as floors, internal doors, sockets and switches.

The apprentices worked in the house over an eight-week period from late May until the property was completed in the middle of July.

Daniel Moore, 21, an electrical apprentice with BS Entwistle Electrical Contractors, based in Chadderton, was able to wire the house on his own.

Daniel’s supervisor, Sam Barrett, Senior Contracts Manager at BS Entwistle, said: “This has been a good opportunity for the apprentices to experience working independently before they’re out there doing this all the time. It gives them the work ethic of being on site and knowing what each of the trades needs to do and when.”

More information can be found here.

Images: © Bellway

Training & Education

RETAIN TALENT BY DEVELOPING IN-HOUSE SURVEYING SKILLS

In construction, retaining talent increasingly depends on more than just pay – it hinges on providing opportunities for growth. Skilled workers want to see a clear path forward. One of the smartest ways to meet that need –and improve your in-house capabilities – is by investing in industry-recognised training that develops practical property inspection and surveying expertise.

That’s where the Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation, delivered by Sava, offers real value – not just for individuals to enhance their skills, but for companies looking to build technical confidence across their teams. This Level 6 qualification, accredited by the Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE), gives learners the ability to inspect residential properties, assess condition, identify defects, and report clearly on risks.

Why It Works for Employers

This part-time qualification fits around a learner’s job, meaning there’s no need to lose productivity while upskilling staff. The training delivers benefits that go well beyond the individual:

• Enhance your team’s ability to identify and report on building defects

• Reduce reliance on external consultants for inspections or condition reports

• Support informed decision-making on site and during project planning

• Create career development routes that retain motivated team members

With funding available for CITB members, cost doesn’t have to be a barrier. Sava can support you through the funding process.

Broader Learning Pathways

Beyond the diploma, Sava also offers a suite of Level 4 Awards and Qualifications covering technical topics like Housing Construction and Damp in Housing. These modular, stackable qualifications are ideal for employees looking to deepen their technical understanding – particularly

I always felt supported throughout the journey –by the Sava team and my cohort.

those moving into supervisory or technical roles.

Whether you’re preparing experienced tradespeople for new responsibilities or simply want to increase the competency of your team when it comes to identifying issues on site, these qualifications offer a structured and effective route forward.

Learner Testimonials

Michael Thompson, a professional with 20 years’ construction experience, said the practical side of the Sava Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation was invaluable: “I enjoyed the practical days in Milton Keynes where you visit the training properties with a practising surveyor. That was an eye-opener for me, enabling me to see how experienced surveyors approach a property inspection.”

Mateo Cave spent his teenage years supporting on building sites before enrolling on the Sava diploma.

“I have some great memories from my time at Sava and made lasting friendships along the way. I always felt supported throughout the journey – by the Sava team and my cohort. As for the course itself, the practical property visits were especially valuable –they really helped bring the learning to life and put everything into context.”

Invest in Practical Expertise

Building inspection and defect diagnosis are critical skills in modern residential construction. By upskilling your team, you’re not just investing in individuals –you’re futureproofing your business.

To learn more or explore CITB funding, contact Sava at hello@sava.co.uk or by calling a course advisor on 01908 442158.

Training & Education

HIGH-QUALITY TECHNICAL EDUCATIONS IS THE FOUNDATION FOR DELIVERING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

By Helen Clements, Senior Social Value Manager, Morgan Sindall Construction

In recent months, the government has made ambitious announcements on large-scale infrastructure projects, such as the third runway at Heathrow and the Oxford-Cambridge corridor and the additional funding for social and affordable housing, will help deliver much needed growth across the country. However, many were left wondering, are there enough skilled people to deliver them?

With 300,000 fewer construction workers than in 2019 and an estimated 500,000 more needed to just meet the government’s annual target of 300,000 new homes, the demand for skilled professionals is more urgent than ever.

This is where T-levels come in. They offer a valuable blend of classroom learning and practical experience, based on employer-led occupational standards. Students also gain critical hands-on experience through a 45-day industry placement, making them more workforce-ready.

In construction, on-site experience is essential from the start. A purely academic approach leaves students unprepared for the realities of the job. That’s why Morgan Sindall Construction offers apprenticeships and trainee schemes open to all, combining paid work with academic learning. For T-level students, industry placements

provide the perfect bridge between education, apprenticeships, and employment.

Morgan Sindall has been involved with T-levels from the beginning. In 2017, we contributed to developing the construction T-level qualification, ensuring it meets industry needs. The transformation in students from their first day to their last is remarkable. Their confidence soars as they apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects. At Morgan Sindall, we fully integrate T-level students into our project teams, offering hands-on training from experienced professionals. Since 2020, we have offered over 370 work experience placements to young people studying a range of subjects including design, surveying, planning, construction and engineering and business management.

These placements aren’t just beneficial for students—they’re invaluable for employers, too. When T-level students later apply for full-time roles, they already understand our processes, terminology, and workplace culture, making their transition seamless. Many of the students we host are now studying degree apprenticeships with us, whereas others have gone

on to work for a number of our subcontractors.

T-levels also help address regional skills shortages, ensuring young people are trained for local employment opportunities. As major infrastructure projects are often geographically widespread, creating a workforce that is well-distributed and well-trained is crucial for balanced economic growth. Local businesses, councils, and training providers need to work together to promote T-levels and create more placement opportunities for students.

Additionally, there is a growing need to challenge outdated perceptions of construction careers. Many still see the industry as limited to traditional trades, overlooking the high-tech, digital, and managerial roles emerging within the sector. T-levels introduce students to a broader range of career paths, from project management and digital design to environmental sustainability and advanced manufacturing.

Ultimately, T-levels create a win-win situation for students and businesses. Employers gain access to a pipeline of skilled young talent, while students receive training that equips them for the job market. Companies that haven’t yet considered offering placements should recognise the significant benefits—both for their own workforce development and for the wider economy.

Government support remains crucial to ensure T-levels continue to provide a viable career pathway. If the UK is to meet its ambitious infrastructure goals, investing in technical education must remain a priority. Additionally, policymakers must continue engaging with industry leaders to refine and expand T-level qualifications to align with the evolving demands of the workforce.

Now is the time for businesses to step up, offer placements, and invest in the next generation of skilled workers. By doing so, we can build a stronger workforce; deliver the infrastructure projects, and ultimately, a stronger economy.