Construct It - September/October 2026

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WORKREADY: READY FOR CONSTRUCTION

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Contents

INSIDE THIS ISSUE...

Project & Case Study Showcase 04

Sections 4. Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

LNS in Norway becomes world’s first to deploy Volvo A30 Electric at hydro power project

22. Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems 34. Demolition, Groundworks & Earthworks 42. Project & Case Study Showcase 48. Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure 34

UKCW Birmingham sets out agenda for a smarter, more sustainable construction industry

Protecting Health Today, Defining the Built Environment Tomorrow

58. Technology & Digital Construction 64. Access, Scaffolding & Temporary Works

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66. Skills, Training & Recruitment

The urban regeneration boom: navigating complex inner-centre projects

64

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3

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

Steffen Solstrand Ludvigsen, Project Site Manager at LNS and Lars Oust, Project Manager at Hafslund Kraft with the new A30 Electric

LNS IN NORWAY BECOMES WORLD’S FIRST TO DEPLOY VOLVO A30 ELECTRIC AT HYDRO POWER PROJECT Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has delivered the world’s first A30 Electric articulated haulers to LNS (Leonhard Nilsen & Sønner AS) for use on a Hafslund hydropower project, representing a significant advance in the electrification of heavy equipment. The deployment at a Norwegian hydroelectric power plant highlights how zero-emission solutions can support more sustainable infrastructure and energy production.

The A30 Electric is part of Volvo CE’s growing portfolio of battery electric machines and is the world’s first serial produced electric articulated hauler in its size class, delivering zeroemission performance in demanding applications.

A total of four A30 Electric articulated haulers has been delivered, with a further three scheduled to follow next month. The machines will be 4

used by LNS, one of Norway’s largest contractors, on behalf of Hafslund Kraft AS, for the construction of the Hemsil 3 power plant in the Hallingdal region, spanning the Hemsedal and Gol municipalities.

The project, expected to be completed in 2029, will increase annual energy production by around 110 GWh. To help reduce projectrelated greenhouse gas emissions,

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electric equipment such as the Volvo A30 Electric will play a key role in construction.

The machines made the 700 km journey from Volvo CE’s Braås site in Sweden, where they are produced, to the Hemsil 3 site on Volvo trucks, travelling through Norway’s mountain landscape to reach the hydropower site in Hallingdal.

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations putting them to work. The project is a strong fit for this type of machine. We’ll be working in tunnels with blasting cycles, which allow time for charging between runs. That makes electric haulers particularly well suited to the work here.”

Przemysla Wessel, from LNS and one of the first operators to use the A30 Electric in a customer project, said: “It was a really special experience. Being among the first to operate this electric hauler was something new for me. It was smooth, comfortable, and easy to use – I truly enjoyed the first run. This feels like a step into the future.”

Lars Oust, Project Manager at Hafslund Kraft, said: “Hafslund has a strong environmental focus and takes a forward-leaning approach to electrifying construction operations on our projects. To succeed in the green transition, we need to adopt new technology and take the lead as a client, driving demand for this type of equipment. That’s why being the first in the world to use electric haulers is so important to us .”

The machines will be used in the construction of an approximately 20 km tunnel, where their zero -emission operation makes them ideally suited for enclosed and sensitive working environments.

Steffen Solstrand Ludvigsen, Project Site Manager at LNS, said: “We are proud to have secured the first A30 Electric haulers for LNS and the Hemsil 3 project, and we look forward to

The machines were supplied and will be supported by Volvo CE’s dealer in Norway, Volvo Maskin AS. David Kristiansund, Head of Operations at Volvo Maskin AS, said: “LNS has been pushing for electric haulers for several years, so it’s fantastic to see them now in operation. Together with forward leaning customers and clients, Norway is leading the way, with strong demand for zero-emission solutions.”

www.volvoce.com

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5

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

HOW ATTITUDES TO HAUL ROAD MAINTENANCE REVEAL A BIGGER SHIFT IN CONSTRUCTION Data is changing the way construction sites operate, turning once overlooked details into measurable opportunities for profit. From increased maintenance to fleet utilisation, data is taking the guesswork out of improving profitability.

William Groven, Product Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction offers his insight into how connected technology is transforming productivity on site.

Finding where profitability is lost Most site managers know where their operations slow down, but few can quantify what those bottlenecks are actually costing or the impact of fixing them. Without clear data, even relatively simple operational changes can feel like an unnecessary risk.

That was the position facing a largescale earthworks operation, where haul truck cycles were falling short and fuel costs were creeping up. The site team suspected the haul road itself was the problem, but couldn’t say with confidence where the losses were coming from or whether resurfacing it would be worth the disruption.

In a bid to overcome the losses and assess what changes could be made to create real impact, the team

invested in technology and audits to understand the site in more detail.

Putting data to work Using Smart Construction Fleet, the site was able to identify exactly what was slowing its trucks down and sinking profitability. By tracking vehicle speed against location, the technology flagged a haul road too narrow for efficient traffic flow.

showed where productivity was being lost, allowing the team to prioritise improvements with confidence.

Widening the road cut congestion and dropped fuel consumption by 3.4 percent, while pushing daily cycles from 34 to 45. Resurfacing it added a further 9.8-10.6 percent improvement in fuel efficiency across the standard fleet.

Running Fleet alongside Smart Construction Dashboard, site managers could build a digital model of the site, revealing an uneven surface that was costing fuel with every trip. Together, both tools create a clear picture of where cycles were being lost with Fleet tracking traffic flow and vehicle speed in real time and Dashboard mapping the terrain issues beneath it.

William explains: “A prime example of how data-driven site adjustments can deliver fuel savings typically associated with next-generation machinery.

Using geofences and alert zones, the team monitored traffic flow, managed vehicle speeds and identified operational issues in real time. Most importantly, the combined data

“Across construction sites, the pressure of earthworks operations is constant and the difference between an efficient operation and a costly one is often measured in litres of fuel, time of journey and the condition of the roads.”

“As more sites begin to measure the impact of operational changes, data like this will begin to help site managers make significant improvements that might otherwise be left unidentified.

Altogether, the changes are moving an extra 176,000 tonnes of material annually and cutting fuel costs by an estimated €26,520.

The data quickly pointed the team to the two biggest operational bottlenecks, allowing simple fixes to be made and the results to be measured almost immediately.

For more information, please visit www.smartconstruction.io

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Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

BHP, RIO TINTO AND CATERPILLAR LAUNCH BATTERY-ELECTRIC HAUL TRUCK TRIAL IN THE PILBARA BHP, Rio Tinto and Caterpillar have launched a trial of two Cat® 793 XE Early Learner battery-electric haul trucks at a mine-site demonstration in Western Australia’s Pilbara as part of an industry-first collaboration.

The next phase of the trial will evaluate dynamic charging via an innovative energy transfer system that will charge the trucks while in motion. This could be one of the keys to unlocking operational efficiency.

Western Australia Premier Roger Cook and Mines and Petroleum Minister David Michael joined representatives from BHP, Rio Tinto, Caterpillar and WesTrac to see the trucks in operation.

Roger Cook Premier Western Australia said: “I want Western Australia’s economy to remain the strongest in the nation, which is why my government is fully behind BHP and Rio Tinto’s efforts to decarbonise and help make WA a renewable energy powerhouse.

Following three months of on-site testing at BHP’s Jimblebar iron ore mine, the trial is showing meaningful progress and reflects an industry effort to tackle the complex challenge of lowering greenhouse gas emissions across large-scale mining operations.

After extensive safety validation and controlled testing at Caterpillar’s Tucson Proving Ground in the United States, the trucks arrived at Jimblebar late last year and are now being put through their paces in one of the world’s most demanding mining environments.

The scale and operational intensity of the Pilbara make it an ideal testing 8

ground for the haul trucks, with Jimblebar currently home to two of seven Caterpillar Early Learner battery-electric haul trucks being tested globally.

The trial is generating critical data to assess technical readiness, infrastructure requirements and commercial feasibility, including trialling high-powered static and dynamic charging solutions.

More than 100 hours of operation and over 200 test laps have occurred in early phase testing, with insights helping validate key assumptions around safety, technology and maintenance of the trucks.

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“Thanks to Caterpillar, these electric trucks will help deliver my government’s vision of reducing emissions in the Pilbara so this region can continue keeping both the WA and national economy strong.”

Amber-Jade Sanderson Minister Energy and Decarbonisation said: “Heavy industry needs to embrace the challenge of lowering their emissions as we work towards decarbonising the Pilbara.

“Our Government’s Energy Transition is good for jobs, good for the WA economy and good for the future of this vital region.

“It’s great to see mining companies trialling battery-electric haul trucks in the Pilbara – this is an important step towards net-zero.”

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations David Michael, Minister Mines and Petroleum said: “Congratulations to BHP, Rio Tinto and Caterpillar on the commitment and leadership shown in building these machines.

“These trucks exemplify what can be achieved when leaders in our industry collaborate to find a solution to a complex problem.

“We can’t underestimate what a feat it is to have such innovative, cutting-edge technologies rolled out in the Pilbara.

“It is machinery like this that will have a meaningful impact on reducing carbon emissions from mining operations.”

Geraldine Slattery, BHP President Australia said: “Investing in battery-electric haul truck fleet technology and operations in the Pilbara is key to our decarbonisation. This trial is helping to advance the technology we need and improve our understanding of how to scale across our operations, from charging infrastructure and energy management through to how it integrates into safe and productive operations.

“This is exactly why industry collaboration matters. By working together, we can accelerate progress in the technologies enabling electrification, on what is needed in the mining operation, and in the supply chain.

“BHP remains on track to meet our target of at least a 30% reduction to our operational greenhouse gas emissions by FY2030 from FY2020 levels.”

Matthew Holcz Rio Tinto Iron Ore Chief Executive said: “Decarbonising haulage across the Pilbara is a complex challenge that is going to require collaboration across industry to solve.

“This trial will give us real-world data in some of the most demanding operating conditions on earth.

“The Pilbara’s scale and intensity are unique, and that’s exactly what makes it the right place to test this technology to understand what’s needed to support broader deployment.”

Thad Litkenhus Caterpillar Resource Industries Vice President of Product Management said: “Working side by side in the Pilbara’s demanding environment allows us to validate battery-electric trucks and charging infrastructure in the exact conditions our customers face.”

“What matters is how we translate what we’re learning into better outcomes, from improved energy efficiency to supporting lower emissions and more reliable performance at site.”

“The progress we’re seeing is helping accelerate the development of solutions that our customers can implement with confidence.” www.cat.com

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Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

WEST FRASER PRODUCTS – THE NATURAL CHOICE FOR MMC David Connacher, Marketing Manager at West Fraser, discusses the right products for the MMC market.

Offsite construction has moved from niche curiosity in the 1990’s to mainstream necessity today as the industry is being reshaped by the demand for faster build times, higher energy performance, and precision engineered components.

This shift places Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) at the centre of the transformation - driving manufacturers, developers and material suppliers to rethink how homes are designed, manufactured and assembled. Against this backdrop, products that deliver accuracy, consistency and reliability - like those from West Fraser - are becoming essential to meeting the new expectations of an industry that’s rapidly evolving.

What is MMC? Let’s start by explaining that the phrase ‘Modern Methods of Construction’, known as MMC, was coined in the 1990’s though the building process started way earlier when products such as timber roof trusses and precast concrete panels were constructed offsite. Today’s MMC world is flourishing through the increased number of timber frame systems, many of them from Europe or Scandinavia, being used for housebuilding. Greater emphasis on improving energy performance, as well as reducing waste in the building industry, has pushed developers towards using MMC or ‘Offsite’ building techniques.

What categories of MMC do West Fraser products suit best?

While there are still some companies supplying basic ‘Open’ timber frame systems, ever more are moving to offering ‘Closed Cell’ alternatives which feature a sheathing board and factory-fitted insulation in the 10

cavity which saves time on site for the builder. Also popular now are more advanced components including flooring cassettes and roof cassettes, or complete room-in-theroof modules, which can be craned onto both new-build and existing wall structures. These could use high performance panel products for the floors, fixed to rafters as sarking boards, or to clad the cheeks of dormer windows. In addition, Structural Insulated Panel systems (SIPS), with their own association, are ideal due to their high standards of airtightness as well as thermal insulation. SIPs normally feature a substantial thickness of expanded foam insulation between two layers of a timber-based board product.

Why do offsite manufacturers specify West Fraser board products?

There is a couple of basic commercial considerations as to why manufacturers choose to buy panel products from West Fraser, price and availability; yet, it also comes down to a combination of technical factors.

Quality and dimensional accuracy crop up most often in comments from leading manufacturers, both because they have built their businesses on ensuring clients have no concerns about the speed of installation and alignment on sites, and also because they are using highly automated production lines where irregular sizes or structural weakness can cause costly problems. West Fraser boards are produced under similarly stringent processes in a modern plant; complying to very high tolerances and can be relied on to cut cleanly when computer-controlled

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saws, routers or even laser cutters are being operated. And, once in use, the different boards will offer the required racking strength (sheathing boards), spanning capacity (flooring), impact strength or all-round durability.

Which West Fraser boards can be seen in MMC systems?

Several of the company’s tried-andtested panel products have become firm favourites with manufacturers across the offsite industry, utilised for a wide variety of MMC systems including closed panel production, SIPs and modular solutions. They include SterlingOSB Zero which is bought by a number of SIPs companies who commend it for the dimensional accuracy as it would stick out like the proverbial sore thumb if the opposite faces of the insulated sandwich panel didn’t match up.

CaberFloor P5 and CaberDek also feature fully amongst companies specialising in floor cassettes and larger modules, used as a surface which can be left exposed or covered with carpet and other flooring finishes.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

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11

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

THREE MAJOR WINS FOR BOBCAT AT MIDDLE EAST AWARDS Bobcat has announced that the company has won awards in three major categories in the 2026 Construction Machinery Middle East (CMME) Awards.

Announced at a ceremony that took place recently at the Ritz Carlton JBR in Dubai, with over 120 guests in attendance, companies and individuals walked away with a total of 35 awards on the night, comprising 32 award winners and three Honourable Achievement plaques selected from over 100 nominees.

The CMME awards recognise excellence in construction machinery and allied services and the gala event was attended by many of the leading players in the regional construction equipment sector, as well as senior industry personnel from outside the region.

Gaby Rhayem, Regional Director for Middle East-Africa-CIS-Turkey for Doosan Bobcat, said: “Bobcat is honoured to have been recognized with three distinguished industry awards at the CMME awards ceremony, reflecting the continued strength of the Bobcat brand and our commitment to excellence, innovation and customer-focused solutions to deliver trusted solutions to the construction equipment industry.”

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Plant, Equipment & Site Operations The awards won by Bobcat included one of the most prestigious at the event: • Original Equipment Manufacturer of the Year – Compact Equipment Doosan Bobcat EMEA This was joined by two more coveted awards: • Skid Steer Loader of the Year for the company’s market-leading S450 skid-steer loader • Logistics Equipment of the Year - Bulk Handling for the Bobcat DV250S-7 forklift model Gaby Rhayem continued: “These recognitions are especially meaningful because they highlight what matters most in our industry: performance, reliability, innovation and customer trust. They also reflect the strength of the Bobcat product portfolio, the dedication of our teams and the continued trust of our customers and partners. This reinforces Bobcat’s position, one more time, as a leader in compact equipment and logistics solutions.”

In recent years, Bobcat has secured a significant share of the Middle East and Africa market for backhoe loaders, as well as launching the company’s latest generation telehandlers and compact loaders.

Bobcat has also expanded its presence in the forklift and warehouse equipment market as well

as continuing to develop its marketleading range of portable power equipment. The product portfolio has now been further extended with a range of small articulated loaders and turf renovation equipment.

Gaby Rhayem added: “I would like to sincerely thank everyone at Bobcat, our Dealers and our Customers for their continued support. These awards are a result of shared dedication, teamwork and a commitment to excellence. We at Bobcat will continue working to deliver products and solutions that create real

value on the jobsite and beyond. As we look ahead, we remain focused on delivering industry-leading solutions that help our customers achieve more every day.”

The annual Construction Machinery Middle East Awards is the only one of its kind in the entire Middle East and wider region that celebrates the equipment industry and recognizes excellence in it. The 2026 edition of the awards was among the most successful yet.

To learn more about Bobcat’s products, attachments and services, visit www.bobcat.com

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Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

ENGINEERING SHAPED BY USE: KEEPING COMPLEXITY OUT OF THE CAB Compact machines are becoming more capable, yet the best engineering often asks less of the operator. Cédric Durand, Chief Product Officer at Yanmar CE, reflects on why new technology must remain grounded in the realities of the jobsite.

At CSPI-EXPO 2026 in Chiba, Japan, interest in automation and digital transformation was driven by a practical concern, as the construction industry looks for ways to respond to persistent labor shortages.

Yanmar Compact Equipment (Yanmar CE) presented its ViO30-7 zero-tailswing mini excavator with blade 3D machine control, alongside remote-operation technology and its Active Tip-over Mitigation System.

Together, the technologies pointed to a broader shift in which equipment takes a more active role in the task. As machines interpret more information and begin to support decisions, greater capability must remain understandable inside the cab.

That shift is also attracting regulatory attention. In Europe for example, the EU Machinery Regulation begins to

apply in January 2027, replacing the Machinery Directive and updating safety requirements for softwareenabled equipment.

For Cédric Durand, Chief Product Officer at Yanmar CE, the response begins with the purpose of the technology and the people whose work it is intended to improve. “The question is always how a solution performs in real conditions,” he explains. “It has to integrate into the way people work.”

Start where the work happens This way of thinking has deep roots at Yanmar. In 1968, as Japan’s construction boom sharpened labor shortages and increased costs, the company introduced the YNB300, widely regarded as the first dieselpowered, self-propelled mini excavator. It brought mechanization

into spaces that larger equipment struggled to reach. Zero-tail-swing design later answered the same need by making confined work more manageable.

The technology has changed, while the development logic remains familiar. Engineering begins with the conditions in which the machine must perform – conditions that are difficult to understand from a specification sheet alone. A control that appears logical during development may feel very different over a long shift, while rental machines must often work for operators with widely varying levels of experience.

“You learn different things beside a machine than you do around a design table,” says Durand. “A small source of hesitation, repeated throughout the working day, can become the starting point for a meaningful change.”

The recently launched SV10 shows how that process works in practice.

The machine had originally been due to reach the market earlier, but field testing with customers in Italy, the UK and France identified a concern around stability. While the overall response to the prototype was positive, Yanmar decided to hold back the launch and address the issue.

The development team made targeted changes to the undercarriage and track structure, as well as the rear counterweight, before bringing the revised machine to market. Customer response since launch has been positive, reflecting a development

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Plant, Equipment & Site Operations process in which feedback from the field can directly influence the finished machine.

“Feedback becomes valuable when it changes a design decision,” Durand shares. “The operator may never see the engineering discussion behind that change, but they will feel the difference every time they use the machine.”

From capability to usability The same principle takes on a different form at the smallest end of the excavator market, where the machines often work where access is part of the challenge. Renovation projects may require equipment to pass through an existing building, while urban infrastructure work can leave little room to maneuver.

At 740 mm wide, the SV10 can pass through a standard doorway, before expanding its undercarriage to 990 mm once in position. It is a design shaped around the sequence of the task: negotiate restricted access first, then establish a firmer stance for digging. Its layout also reflects the realities of rental fleets, where machines move between users and need to be put to work quickly.

Repositioned side levers create more operating space, while the controls are arranged to make familiarization straightforward. A tilting engine hood provides direct access for daily checks. “For contractors and fleet owners, usability affects how quickly a machine can begin work and how consistently it earns its place on site,” confirms Durand.

When the machine begins to assist As machines take a more active role in the work, the relationship between assistance and understanding becomes increasingly important.

Often, the most successful intervention is one that asks almost nothing extra of the operator.

Yanmar’s Safety Joystick, for example, activates the controls only when the operator intends to use the machine.

Accidental contact does not activate the equipment, while the controls lock when the operator leaves the seat.

Built into a familiar movement, the protection adds no display

or sequence for the operator to manage. “New technologies create opportunities, but they also introduce complexity,” Durand says. “The priority is to ensure that complexity does not sit with the operator.”

Active Tip-over Mitigation gives the machine a more direct role in managing risk. By assessing how the payload interacts with the machine’s posture on sloping ground, the system can limit certain commands as tipping risk increases.

Technology with a lighter touch Some practical engineering questions begin far from an ordinary jobsite.

Yanmar’s Force Control research grew partly from the challenge of future construction on the Moon, where communication delays mean machinery must respond to changing terrain without constant direction from Earth.

Working with JAXA’s Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center, Yanmar tested a force-controlled robotic arm on a lunar-rover research model, including travel over soft ground and excavation.

The principle was then applied to an electric prototype based on the ViO25 mini excavator, using a Series Elastic Actuator to sense and regulate applied force.

Development is continuing, with Yanmar now supporting field testing with customers on real jobsites to understand where the technology can bring the greatest practical advantage. With that work still in

progress, further details remain under wraps for now.

“Force Control will help make heavy lifting and handling safer and easier by precisely sensing and controlling applied force,” says Durand. “The aim is to reduce physical strain and improve productivity, allowing work that once required several people to be completed more efficiently by a smaller team.”

Progress that can be felt Yanmar frames this approach through two design ideas: “Intrinsic Design” begins with the purpose the machine must serve. “Gentleness & Toughness” brings the resilience required on site together with greater consideration for the person relying on it. Progress is judged by whether the engineering solves a real problem, in real conditions.

“Technologies will continue to evolve, but our measure of progress should remain practical,” concludes Durand.

“A development has value when people can use it with confidence, in the environments for which it was designed.”

Perhaps the most successful engineering eventually recedes into the task itself. Its assistance arrives without interrupting concentration, while the sophistication within the machine is felt through work that becomes steadier in the operator’s hands. www.yanmar.com

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Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

MERCEDES-BENZ TRUCKS WORKREADY: READY FOR CONSTRUCTION In construction, keeping projects moving means having the right equipment available at the right time. Whether responding to a new contract, expanding fleet capacity or replacing an existing vehicle, lengthy lead times can impact productivity and profitability. That’s why Mercedes-Benz Trucks developed the WorkReady programme.

WorkReady offers a range of high-specification trucks that are available for rapid delivery, allowing operators to get vehicles on the road quickly and focus on the job at hand. Expertly specified using insights from customers and industry specialists, these vehicles are designed to meet the demands of sectors including construction, aggregates, infrastructure and waste management.

The Mercedes-Benz Arocs forms the foundation of the WorkReady programme, offering a proven construction-specification truck designed to maximise uptime.

Built with a robust chassis, durable components and backed by the Mercedes-Benz Trucks Dealer network, the Arocs delivers the reliability, serviceability and operational efficiency that construction businesses demand.

However, acquiring a truck is only part of the equation. For construction businesses, uptime is critical, and that’s where the wider benefits of WorkReady come into their own.

Every WorkReady vehicle is supported by the Mercedes-Benz Trucks Dealer network, providing access to expert technicians, Mercedes-Benz Trucks genuine replacement parts and nationwide aftersales support. Planned maintenance programmes help keep vehicles operating efficiently, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime and helping fleets maximise productivity throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

but also provides greater financial certainty for businesses operating in demanding and competitive markets.

Many operators also choose Mercedes-Benz Trucks Service Contracts, enabling maintenance costs to be managed through fixed monthly payments while ensuring servicing is carried out to manufacturer standards. This not only supports vehicle reliability

For operators who need proven construction trucks without the wait, Mercedes-Benz Trucks WorkReady offers the perfect combination of availability, reliability and support, ensuring vehicles are ready to work from day one.

www.mercedes-benz-trucks.com

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With modern, driver-focused cab environments, advanced connectivity and the reassurance of comprehensive Dealer support, WorkReady delivers much more than a vehicle. It provides a complete solution designed to help construction businesses stay productive and profitable.

READY AND AVAILABLE TO GET THE JOB DONE. The Mercedes-Benz Arocs WorkReady Tipper.

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL DEALER

and Mercedes-Benz are trademarks of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

BRETTS TRANSPORT INVESTS IN NEW DAF TRUCKS Guyhirn-based Bretts Transport is re-investing in its fleet with the addition of nine new DAF trucks as it continues to drive operational efficiency within the business.

Bretts has just taken delivery of the first six liveried DAF XG 480 trucks, with another three scheduled to arrive towards the end of September.

The new trucks form part of Bretts’ ongoing fleet replacement programme which is designed to ensure its vehicles remain modern and efficient, in turn benefiting customers with its unrivalled service at a competitive rate.

Designed for long-distance trunking journeys, the 44-tonne trucks each come with a 3.95 metre wheelbase.

They are powered by DAF’s efficient MX-13 engine, delivering a strong performance and excellent fuel efficiency.

The 480 model features a 480 hp engine, automated gearbox, and a 6 x 2 axle configuration designed for long-distance haulage and optimised weight distribution.

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Wayne Minney, Transport General Manager at Bretts Transport, said the new vehicles were proving popular with drivers, offering the ultimate in safety and comfort.

All DVS-compliant, the trucks are each equipped with DAF’S Corner View system, a kerb-view window in the co-driver door, reverse warning technology and DAF’s City Safety Package which improves visibility and safety in busy areas.

Their high-comfort cabs are spacious and come with an array of features including luxury airsuspended seating, an integrated infotainment and navigation system, a refrigerator and storage and sleeper accommodation which comes with an Xtra Comfort mattress.

The trucks also feature Fleet Focus’s four-way camera system and an

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in-cab AI driver-facing camera which monitors for signs of fatigue, distraction, mobile phone use and reduced attention. Where needed, the system triggers alerts and gathers camera evidence which allows for faster intervention, driver coaching and improved safety within fleet operations.

Wayne said: “The driving team at Bretts are delighted to receive the new trucks. As well as offering excellent driver comforts which provide a home-from-home experience on long journeys, they allow us to maintain excellent fuel economy, keep repair costs down and reduce overall running costs, the benefits of which are passed on to our customers.”

www.brettstransport.co.uk

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations

DURHAM LIFTING SUPPORTS NEW CHAPTER FOR HISTORIC PALLION SHIPYARD North East lifting specialist supports the return to operation of the historic Sunderland shipyard, providing crane servicing, maintenance and specialist lifting equipment as industrial activity returns to the site.

Durham Lifting is supporting the return to operation of the historic Pallion Shipyard in Sunderland, providing specialist lifting equipment and servicing expertise as activity once again returns to a site with a significant industrial and shipbuilding heritage.

The former shipyard is now being used to store significant volumes of specialist beams, with three full lines of beams arriving at Pallion before being prepared for onward movement. Supporting an operation of this scale requires lifting infrastructure that is safe, compliant and ready for the demands being placed upon it. This is where Durham Lifting’s Service Division has played an important role.

Durham Lifting has also supplied lifting equipment used for handling pipes, beams and other materials within the building, supporting the wider operation as activity at Pallion continues to develop.

For Durham Lifting, the project demonstrates the role its Service Division can play when businesses are bringing existing lifting infrastructure back into operation. Rather than simply supplying individual pieces of equipment, the team can assess what is already in place, identify servicing or remedial requirements and provide the ongoing technical support needed to help customers operate safely and efficiently.

Bringing Pallion Shipyard Back Into Operation Central to the operation are two existing cranes within the historic shipyard building. Following a significant period of downtime at the facility, the cranes had not been operating under the demands now being placed upon them. Bringing the building back into active industrial use therefore required more than simply switching the equipment back on.

Durham Lifting’s Service Division has worked with Colin and the team at Pallion to assess the existing crane infrastructure and carry out the servicing, maintenance and remedial work required to bring the cranes back to their current operational condition.

The team’s involvement has helped ensure the equipment is safe, compliant and capable of supporting the lifting activity now taking place within the facility.

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That expertise is backed by more than 25 years of experience within the lifting industry.

From Thousands of Workers to a New Generation of Industry The scale of the building provides a reminder of what the site would once have looked like. At its height, thousands of people would have worked across the wider site, with vessels, cranes and heavy engineering forming part of everyday operations.

Today, seeing the cranes operating and materials moving through the building again has particular significance for Durham Lifting Director Amanda Gardiner, whose

Plant, Equipment & Site Operations own connection with Pallion stretches back to the beginning of her working career.

“This was actually the first site visit I ever came on during my working career. My dad brought me here and I remember walking into the building when it was full of men working,” said Amanda.

“To come back now and see it operational again is fantastic. A building of this size and structure was built for industry, and seeing the cranes working and activity coming back into it is something special.”

Returning to Pallion decades later, this time with Durham Lifting playing a role in bringing its lifting infrastructure back into operation, makes the project particularly significant.

Colin’s Career in Transport and Logistics Colin’s career began at just 15 years old when his father signed a contract for him to start with Foden Trucks.

After initially training as a mechanic, he progressed into supervisory positions before deciding he wanted to experience another side of the transport industry and moving into truck driving. That eventually led him back to college to complete his CPC qualification and begin a career in transport management.

Roles with Interlink and Magnet Kitchens followed, before Colin joined LV Shipping, where he would spend approximately 29 years progressing from Transport Office Manager through to Associate Board Member and ultimately a full Board Member, with responsibility across the company’s northern operations.

His extensive background in transport, logistics and shipping has given him a strong understanding of the scale and coordination required for an operation such as Pallion.

Having initially expected retirement to mean spending more time with his classic and project cars, becoming involved in the site’s revival has instead given him another major project to focus on.

“The place has grown on me, and so have the people,” Colin said.

“To see what they’re trying to achieve here and to see a site like this being brought back to life, it’s great to be part of it.”

Proud to Play a Part For Durham Lifting, supporting Colin and the team is about much more than supplying equipment.

After an extended period of downtime at the facility, the project has required the knowledge and experience to understand the condition of the existing cranes, identify what was required and support their return to operational use.

Through its Service Division, Durham Lifting has been able to provide the servicing, maintenance and technical expertise behind the lifts themselves, helping ensure lifting activity is undertaken safely and in accordance with the required standards.

Combined with the company’s lifting equipment supply and wider engineering capability, it means Durham Lifting can support customers throughout the process,

from assessing existing infrastructure through to servicing equipment and supplying the lifting accessories required for the operation.

There is an added significance in seeing that expertise being used within a building that has played its own part in the North East’s engineering history.

As materials continue to arrive and operations develop, the project represents both a new use for the site and a continuation of what the building was created for: heavy industry, engineering and lifting on a significant scale.

For Amanda, returning to the location of her first ever site visit and seeing industry operating within the building again brings things full circle.

For Durham Lifting, it represents another opportunity to use decades of lifting expertise to help bring an important piece of North East industrial heritage back into productive use.

www.durhamlifting.co.uk

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Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems

WHY CHOOSE CEDRAL FIBRE CEMENT FACADES AND ROOFING SLATES Innovations in fibre cement technology are creating high performing materials which are lighter, thinner and ultimately stronger. Cedral fibre cement is a strong, versatile and sustainable material which uses fewer raw materials and less energy in its manufacture and produces less waste than some traditional building materials.

Cedral cladding and roofing slates are superb for new builds, extensions and renovations and there are numerous options to suit a range of project requirements. Cladding with fibre cement planks like Cedral can preserve the life of older buildings by providing a stylish contemporary update for unsightly faded paintwork or render.

Cedral fibre cement roofing slates combine the benefits of modern slate technology with the look of natural slate. Cedral slates are consistently lighter yet just as strong as other roofing materials.

Advantages include: • Fire performance: Cedral products are Class 0 and EN 135011 fire performance classified to A2s1,d0, one of the best classification ratings that can be achieved.

• Low maintenance, resistant to rot and warping: Designed to withstand the elements without regular repainting or treatment, Cedral is a practical and longlasting alternative to traditional wood cladding and natural roofing slates. Cedral fibre cement doesn’t

rot or rust and has a minimum life expectancy of 50 years. Designed to withstand the elements without regular repainting or treatment, Cedral is a practical and longlasting alternative to traditional materials.

• Stands up to the harshest weather conditions: Cedral can withstand severe frosts, torrential rain, high heat and direct sunlight.

• Ventilation: Cedral facades are installed using the ventilated rainscreen system which helps to support energy efficiency

improvements and enables the rapid drying of external walls.

• Style and creativity for a home’s exterior: Cedral cladding is available in a wide range of finishes and colour choices. Boards can be mounted vertically or horizontally and can perfectly complement brick, natural stone, tiles, stucco and even metal.

• Ease of installation: Cedral planks are easy to cut, there’s no need to predrill and there’s a comprehensive range of matching trims. Cedral roofing slates are standardized in grade and size and pre-holed.

• CCPI accreditation: Cedral Sidings have been CCPI assessed and certified.

Cedral’s UK technical team supports specifiers through the process.

Visit the Cedral website for design inspiration, technical documents and certificates.

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Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems

WOULD YOUR FIRE DOORS PASS INSPECTION TODAY? Don’t wait until non-compliance becomes a costly problem Yeoman Shield provides a complete nationwide fire door service, helping building owners, facilities managers and responsible persons inspect, maintain, repair, protect and replace fire doors with confidence.

Fire Door Inspections Our qualified inspectors carry out intrusive and non-intrusive inspections, providing comprehensive condition reports and prioritised recommendations for any remedial work required.

Our services support compliance with Article 17 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, with guidance aligned to BS 9999 inspection recommendations.

Fire door compliance is more than a tick-box exercise—it is a vital part of protecting people, property and escape routes.

Damaged components, excessive gaps, incorrect installation or doors that fail to close properly can prevent a fire door from performing when it matters most. Regular inspection and maintenance help identify these issues early, reducing the risk of costly disruption, enforcement action or unnecessary replacement.

Maintenance and Remedial Works Many defective fire doors can be repaired and returned to compliance without requiring complete replacement.

We also provide specialist fire-rated protection systems for door faces, edges and frames. These solutions help prevent impact damage in demanding environments such as hospitals, schools, care homes and public buildings.

Our services include adjustments, replacement seals and ironmongery, certified remedial works and repairs completed in line with BS 8214 and ASDMA guidance. Acting early can extend the life of your doors while reducing future costs.

Why Yeoman Shield?

• More than 60 years of industry expertise • Nationwide service coverage • Directly employed inspection, installation and maintenance teams • Complete survey-to-installation support • Trusted across healthcare, education, care, commercial and public-sector environments

Installation and Protection Where doors are beyond repair, Yeoman Shield can manage the complete process—from initial survey and specification to the supply and installation of compliant fire-rated doorsets.

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FIRE DOORS

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Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems

MAGPLY VIRGINS AHR AND Q9 SIGN UP FOR A REPEAT AHR architects and specialist sub-contractors Q9 Cladding Solutions give Magply boards a definitive thumbs up.

The use of fire-resistant roofing boards from leading UK manufacturer Magply on an exemplar Passivhaus school was a first-time experience for the architects and installers. And both would be more than happy to use them again.

Magply’s 12mm-thick boards, which meet Euroclass EN13501 (A1 Non-Combustible) standards, were specified for a warm roof build-up

by AHR architects for Caledonia High School in Rosyth, Fife, Scotland.

The magnesium oxysulfate boards were installed over metal roof deck sheets by specialist sub-contractor Q9 Cladding Solutions for main contractor BAM to help provide a lightweight, flat surface for the waterproofing.

AHR senior architect Keith Peterson said: “We were initially looking at using a weatherproof cement board but the contractor was keen to look at alternatives as this was quite an expensive solution over the whole roof area.

“We also considered not using any board product at all and installing the roof VCL directly onto the structural deck, but our concern was that without a flat substrate, we might have had issues achieving the airtightness requirements for the project.

“The Magply board was a costeffective solution that would ensure the airtight VCL layer was well supported to help achieve the Passivhaus standard. And the Magply boards have performed well. We don’t have any formal air test results, but initial smoke testing confirmed that the envelope is performing as intended for a Passivhaus project.”

He added: “From my understanding, the site team have been quite happy laying the boards and have been able to achieve a good level of workmanship overall. I had not used Magply before but would be happy to specify them again based on the experience we have had so far on our projects.”

Installers Q9 Cladding Solutions had a team of six men on site.

Contracts manager Graeme Ritchie said: “We have used a similar product in the past but this was the first time we had used the Magply product. It was the specified product on this project. It was great. There were no issues with its installation. The boards were easy to cut and quick to lay. Time was mainly spent fixing the boards down due to the number of fixings required but we didn’t find any particular challenges.”

He added: “We don’t specify products ourselves but we have recently been working on a project using a similar product and I believe Magply is a

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superior product. The similar product absorbed water more easily and was more difficult to dry out.”

Caledonia High School is being built on the Fleet Grounds in Rosyth as a state-of-the-art replacement for the outdated Inverkeithing High School.

It will accommodate 1,735 pupils over three floors, with an open “see and be seen” approach throughout.

The latest in Fife Council’s £88million programme to renew all of its secondary schools, its Passivhaus build ensures Caledonia High School will use around 75% less energy than a standard UK new-build, helping to meet the education authority’s net zero carbon ambitions.

The details for Caledonia High School were also used by AHR at Templehall Community Hub, also a Passivhaus project, in Kirkcaldy, Fife. Both projects are due to open around July 2026.

Keith said of the two: “The Magply board was selected as it is A1 rated and dimensionally stable so was a good product for substrate to the roofing system.”

The Magply boards were supplied to Caledonia High School by CCF in East Kilbride. www.magply.co.uk

Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems

CORROSION CONTROL: THE OVERLOOKED LINK IN THE GLOBAL ENERGY SUPPLY CHAIN A recent visit to the shipyards of Asia underscored a key point in the mind of Caleb Pheneger, President of corrosion solutions provider Cortec® Corporation: “We’re all integrated into this global economy, and the more we work together, the more success we see.” That observation is keenly true in the world of corrosion control.

Why Corrosion Protection Matters Across the Global Energy Supply Chain As Pheneger traveled to different points of the energy supply chain across Asia, he noted the interconnectedness of materials and corrosion protection. Raw materials from Australia may be fabricated into pipes in China and sent to Indonesia to be installed on an oil and gas module. That module eventually sails to the U.S.A. or any other part of the world where a large greenfield energy project is underway. If, at any point in the asset manufacturing life cycle, corrosion control is lacking, all subsequent stages may suffer from the costly side effects of equipment rework or replacement.

For example, if corrosion protection is applied correctly to a HRSG (heat recovery steam generator) that has already been assembled with corroded tubing, it may or may not be acceptable to the project owner despite the best efforts of the last supplier to prevent corrosion.

How Can Energy Companies Prevent Corrosion Across Complex Supply Chains?

The ideal strategy for EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) firms and energy companies to receive uncompromised components is to ensure expert and effective corrosion protection at every stage of the supply chain. One LNG company in Asia showed how this could be done by working closely with Cortec® distributors across multiple countries to ensure corrosion-free delivery of new heat exchangers. After a bad experience with an overseas supplier, the end user wanted to make sure heat exchangers arrived in like-new condition. Cortec® representatives in three countries coordinated to ensure protection all the way from tube fabrication to heat exchanger assembly and delivery.1 How to Build Corrosion Protection Into Global Energy Projects While it can be difficult to orchestrate the many different parts of the energy

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CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

supply chain alone, the pay-off for corrosion protection from avoiding rework or replacement is worth the investment. Once key players are identified and educated, the rest of the journey is simple. For those unsure of where to start, Cortec® stands ready to help identify key preservation materials and their nearest distributors in each region.

Get help integrating corrosion protection into every link of the energy supply chain here.

See Cortec® Case Histories #851-852 (login required): www.corteccasehistories.com/.

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www.cortecvci.com/contact-us/

New & Improved

Damex FR

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The system can now be fixed directly through the material at 600mm centres, simplifying the installation process and reducing installation time.

REDUCED INNER LEAF MATERIAL We've reduced the required material on the inner leaf from 100mm to just 25mm. This means: - Less material required on site - Reduced site waste - Lower overall project costs - You only pay for the material you actually need

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Damex FR Ltd Non-Combustible DPC & Cavity Tray +44 (0) 1708 926 800 | damexfr.com | info@damexfr.com WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT 29

Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems

BUILDING FOR CHANGE – INCLUDING CLIMATE! (OR: KEEP COOL, STAY WARM) 2026 is proving to be a year to test the building industry on several fronts Building Performance Construction Resources – Productivity - Sustainability. These are all serious challenges, but there are existing and proven solutions, one of which is the Beco WALLFORM ICF building system.

Building Performance – Fabric First is the key factor in building performance.

The specification of building materials for the building envelope determines the performance of the building. It dictates what else will be required (including energy) to provide a comfortable environment for the occupants.

Beco WALLFORM was designed over fifty years ago to provide strong, durable, energy efficient structures to meet the demands of different and changing environments using readily available building materials.

The combination of these materials provides strength, fire, thermal, acoustic performance and flood resilience. The technical detailing 30

eliminates thermal bridging and provides air tightness in the basic construction. The benefits apply to both basic Regulations and Passivhaus specifications.

Construction Resources – Much is currently made of the shortages of skilled workers and the difficulty in recruiting the younger generation to the industry. The practical nature of the Wallform building process makes it easy for existing operatives to adopt the method, particularly with onsite training. The younger generation, when introduced to the system, are quick to realise what can be achieved without relying on intense training or complex equipment.

Productivity – The light weight of Wallform components means that materials handling and construction of the formwork system does not require much by way of tools or equipment to achieve high rates of productivity. The building process covers several trade activities,

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enabling just a small team to be much more productive in a safer working environment.

Sustainability – The nature of Wallform materials – expanded polystyrene (eps) and concrete – is such that materials’ manufacture is relatively local. EPS is a by product of oil (<0.5%crude oil) but saves many times its own energy and carbon value in a standard (50 year) life expectancy. The carbon profile of concrete is rapidly reducing (zero carbon concrete is already available) and well on course to be carbon negative before 2050. The robust materials’ makeup of Wallform construction provides assurance on performance and extends life expectancy prior to the materials being recycled.

Beco WALLFORM – Building for the Future - TODAY! www.becowallform.co.uk

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Concrete, Materials & Structural Systems

BUTELINE: SPEED, EASE & SECURITY IN PLUMBING & UFH Designed for speed, simplicity and long-term reliability, the Buteline Plumbing & Heating System offers installers a flexible solution for plumbing, heating and underfloor heating applications.

The Buteline Plumbing & Heating System is designed for installation speed and long-term security, for use with hot and cold potable water, chilled water, central heating and underfloor heating. WRAS-approved, the system uses the same one type of pipe across all applications, simplifying specification and reducing stock requirements.

Installers benefit from easy pipe handling and superb flexibility, with no pipe preparation such as calibrating, chamfering, or deburring required. Offcuts from UFH installations can be used for plumbing applications, minimising waste. For convenience, Buteline also offer red and blue pre-insulated pipe

VIEW TOW TEST 32

in 10mm, 16mm, 22mm and 28mm sizes with Euroclass B fire rating, which fulfils the highest building standards in terms of fire reaction.

Buteline single mould fittings are slim, with no O-rings, grab rings or inserts, significantly reducing the likelihood of errors and ensuring leak-free connections once clamped with their hand tool or press gun.

The post-clamp flare on the fittings’ aluminium collar visually indicates joint completion. The resulting permanent joint is maintenancefree and robust, backed by a 25 year guarantee. The range also includes a variety of transition fittings for connecting to pushfit and copper (soldering, compression and press options available).

* Full package design on receipt of an order.

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Bute-Heatline UFH utilises the same flexible pipe so achieving a professional, uniform layout is easy. Various system configurations are available to suit different floor constructions, and Buteline offer a FREE design service*, 48-hour quote turnaround, full guarantee and after sales support. www.buteline.co.uk

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Demolition, Groundworks & Earthworks

PROTECTING HEALTH TODAY, DEFINING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT TOMORROW Over RVT Group’s 30-year history, construction site safety has undergone a fundamental transformation. What was once treated as a reactive, tick-box exercise, addressing environmental hazards only after work has commenced, is now recognised as a critical, proactive design strategy.

Modern construction projects face an increasingly complex array оf hazards, from respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust and toxic exhaust fumes tо excessive noise and water pollution. Managing these risks after mobilisation іs nо longer viable, with late interventions inevitably leading to severe regulatory penalties, local community friction, workforce illhealth, and costly project delays.

“Truly effective hazard control begins long before equipment arrives on site,” explains Alicia Parfitt, Executive Leader at RVT Group and member of the Health in Construction Leadership Group (HCLG). “By embedding specialist hazard control into the early pre-construction planning phase, main contractors, architects, engineers, and specifiers can identify environmental risks early. RVT Group’s expert tailored solutions include high-performance temporary ventilation, local exhaust ventilation (LEV), dust extraction, water silt filtration, and cloudconnected, continuous monitoring platforms. Rather than relying solely

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оn static site boundaries оr basic PPE, this integrated approach creates a dynamic, robust protective shield around active work zones.”

Real-time telemetry ensures that air quality, noise, and vibration levels remain strictly within legal thresholds, providing project managers with complete, auditable proof of compliance and peace of mind on every live job. Crucially, addressing environmental hazards upstream removes immense operational friction for project leaders. When site teams are not forced tо halt work due tо airborne dust migration, neighbour noise complaints, оr water contamination breaches, delivery schedules remain intact, commercial margins are protected, and overall workforce wellbeing іs actively supported across every single phase оf project delivery.

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“Ultimately, taking an upstream approach tо hazard management proves that worker health and project efficiency gо hand-in-hand,” adds Alicia. “Protecting the physical wellbeing оf site personnel and surrounding local communities today is what secures seamless project delivery, protects commercial margins, and defines a sustainable built environment tomorrow. As the UK construction industry navigates tighter regulatory standards, evolving ISO guidelines, and demanding project delivery schedules, partnering with our trusted specialist hazard control experts takes the hassle out оf site safety, allowing contractors to focus on building with complete confidence, clarity, and total peace of mind.”

To find out more, visit: www.rvtgroup.co.uk

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Demolition, Groundworks & Earthworks

INNOVATIONS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF READY-MIX CONCRETE From smarter production methods to innovative concrete solutions and sustainable practices, the construction industry is changing rapidly. At Brice Aggregates, we’re embracing these developments to help customers build more efficiently, safely and sustainably.

The construction industry continues to evolve As projects become more complex and timelines tighter, ready-mix concrete has developed far beyond a standard building material. Advances in production technology, specialist mix designs and quality control are helping contractors deliver stronger, durable structures while improving productivity on site.

Precision through automation One of the most significant developments has been the adoption of automated batching technology.

Modern batching plants use computercontrolled systems to accurately measure and mix raw materials, producing a consistent product with every load. This precision improves quality, reduces waste, enhances traceability and gives contractors greater confidence that every delivery will perform as specified.

Advancing concrete performance Innovation has transformed concrete performance. Fibrereinforced concrete is increasingly being specified across a wide range of projects, providing an effective alternative to traditional steel reinforcement in many applications.

By distributing fibres throughout the mix, contractors can improve crack resistance, reduce installation time

WATCH OUR QUARRIES IN ACTION! 36

and simplify construction without compromising strength or durability.

Our Brice FibreFloat and Brice FibrePro performance concretes have been developed for internal and external applications, helping customers achieve faster construction times, improved site safety and durable finishes.

The rise of self-compacting concrete Self-compacting concrete is another advancement changing the way projects are delivered. Designed to flow around reinforcement and into complex formwork without the need for vibration, it helps improve safety, reduce labour requirements and achieve a superior surface finish.

Brice Flow, our high-performance selfcompacting concrete, delivers these advantages while producing a level, quality-assured surface suitable for commercial, industrial and domestic flooring, foundations and structural applications.

Building more sustainably Sustainability remains central to our operations across our Essex and Cambridgeshire quarries. Through progressive restoration, we transform worked areas into natural habitats.

At Needingworth Quarry, our partnership with the RSPB is helping create one of the UK’s largest wetland restoration projects, providing vital habitats for wildlife, including the rare bittern.

Strategically located to keep projects moving With quarrying and ready-mix concrete operations in Essex and

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Cambridgeshire, Brice Aggregates supplies projects across a geographical area. Our ready-mix network serves Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire, Suffolk, Hertfordshire, Essex, North London and East London, while our aggregate operations extend across Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, South Lincolnshire and Suffolk. Complementing our material supply, we also provide muck away and recycling services, supported by our haulage fleet.

Looking to the future Demand for faster, more sustainable construction is driving innovation across the sector. Through advanced technology, specialist concrete solutions and responsible quarrying, Brice Aggregates is helping deliver resilient projects for the future.

At Brice Aggregates, our experienced team can provide practical advice on aggregates, ready-mix concrete and specialist performance mixes to support your project. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and find the right solution for your next development.

W: www.briceaggregates.co.uk E: info@briceaggregates.co.uk T: 01376 772491

LOCALLY PRODUCED PROFESSIONALLY SUPPLIED READY-MIX CONCRETE FOR PROJECTS OF EVERY SIZE

Demolition, Groundworks & Earthworks

RESIN INJECTION SPECIALIST ACHIEVES IRISH BBA CERTIFICATION Geobear Ireland becomes first ground engineering firm to receive Irish building regulations compliance transparency and technical assurance.

At a time when regulatory certainty is increasingly important, being the only geopolymer injection company with this certification demonstrates our commitment to quality, transparency and delivering the highest standards for our customers,” Dee continued.

The certification also covers Geobear’s advanced geopolymer injection technology, which strengthens weak soils, fills voids, and lifts sunken structures, without the need for excavation.

Non-invasive ground engineering company Geobear has become the first and only resin injection company to achieve verified compliance with the Irish Building Regulation through its British Board of Agrément (BBA) certification. A benchmark for product quality and fitnessfor-purpose, Geobear UK has held the BBA certification since 2021 and remains the only geopolymer injection company in the world to have earned the achievement.

The milestone follows the BBA’s recent launch of an Irish building regulations compliance add-on for its Agrément certification holders, enabling Geobear to extend its existing certification to cover its Irish operations. Following updates from the Irish government post-Brexit, third-party certificates used in Ireland must confirm coverage for use in the Republic of Ireland, demonstrating compliance with Parts A-M, of which Geobear now fulfils completely.

The updated certification gives Irish specifiers, engineers, architects, building control bodies, and property owners, reliable third38

party verification that Geobear’s geopolymer injections comply with Irish Building Regulations, removing a key barrier for professionals seeking to utilise advanced ground engineering solutions.

The British Board of Agrément is an independent, regulated body for the UK construction industry that helps to create accountability and mitigate risk. The BBA certification is a mark of compliance based on rigorous national and European standards, validating a construction product’s specialist formulation, capability, and uniqueness.

The certification process includes independent laboratory testing of materials, assessment of structural characteristics and durability, evaluation of design and installation practices, and ongoing surveillance of production. Certification holders also undergo a formal three-year review, to ensure continued compliance with the BBA. To discover more about Geobear’s advanced geopolymer injection solutions for residential, commercial, and infrastructure assets, visit Geobear Ireland’s website.

“This is a significant moment for Geobear in Ireland,” said Richard Dee, Director of Geobear Ireland.

“Our customers and their advisors can now have complete confidence that our solutions meet Irish Building Regulations, verified independently by a respected certification body in the construction industry.

“As the first and only geopolymer injection company to achieve this certification, we are proud to be setting a new benchmark for quality,

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

www.geobear.com

29 Sept - 1 Oct 2026

NEC, Birmingham

THE CONSTRUCTION

BEGINS HERE Building Better. Building Smarter. Building Responsibly.

Construction is resetting Join the people, products and ideas driving The Construction RESET at UK Construction Week Birmingham.

As the industry responds to growing demands on productivity, delivery, technology and sustainability, UK Construction Week is where construction comes together to understand what’s changing, discover practical solutions and do business with the people driving progress.

Explore the innovations shaping construction, connect with leading suppliers and partners, and leave with ideas, technologies and relationships to help you build better, build smarter and build more responsibility.

BUILDING SMARTER

BUILDING BETTER • • • • •

• • • • •

Delivery Productivity Performance Skills Project outcomes

Technology Digitalisation AI Innovation Next-generation construction

BE PART OF THE RESET. REGISTER TODAY

ukconstructionweek.com #UKCW

@ukconstructionweek

#uk_cw

#UKCWBirmingham2026

@UK_CW

UKConstructionWeek

BUILDING RESPONSIBLY • • • • •

Sustainability Safety Regulation Retrofit Future-ready construction

UK Construction EXPO

UKCW BIRMINGHAM SETS OUT AGENDA FOR A SMARTER, MORE SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY From AI in construction to supply chain partnerships and the latest thoughts on retrofit, this autumn’s UK Construction Week Birmingham (NEC, 29 September - 1 October) features a packed programme designed to encourage fresh thinking, showcase innovation and support the industry’s drive towards a more productive, sustainable future.

Ahead of its return to the NEC, UKCW Birmingham has unveiled The Construction Reset - a new theme designed to tackle the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the built environment, from improving productivity and scaling industrialised construction to accelerating digital transformation and delivering more sustainable outcomes.

Structured around three key pillars – Building Better, Building Smarter and Building Responsibly, the threeday event will feature: Built-for-purpose sections: • Roofing, Cladding & Insulation - A dedicated destination for contractors, installers, specifiers

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and designers who want to explore the latest innovations in durability, efficiency and weather protection and architectural impact Digitalisation & AI - See how technology, automation, and AI are redefining the way we plan and build Futurebuild Innovation Showcase - New for 2026, bringing together the most innovative products, technologies, materials and solutions transforming the built environment Building & Onsite Safety Featuring product and systems supporting safer buildings and safer sites Equipment, Tools & Hire - Explore the newest tools and equipment driving productivity

• Construction Training & Services - Connect with experts in project delivery, compliance, training, and professional support Five theatres offering a varied programme of talks and workshops from industry experts and thought leaders: • Main Stage - sponsored by Barbour ABI • Building Safety and Occupational Safety Stage • Building Envelope Stage • Digitalisation & AI Stage sponsored by Zutec • Futurebuild Innovation Stage Highlights of seminars and discussions across the show include: Tuesday 29th September Main Stage (10.30am – 11.15am) The Construction Reset: What Needs to Change and What Happens if We Don’t?

[Build Better] This session will examine where the industry can unlock growth, improve performance and build a futureready workforce through innovation, collaboration and new career pathways.

Speakers: Jackie Rigby (Homes England), Saul Humphrey (Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Tim Balcon (CITB)

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UK Construction EXPO Building Envelope Stage (1.30pm 2.15pm) The Retrofit Reset: Beyond Grants to Long Term Delivery Government grants have played an important role in kickstarting retrofit, but they won’t deliver the scale or pace of home upgrades the UK needs on their own. This session explores what comes next.

Speaker: Carl Bairstow (Efficiency North), Rachael Owens (National Retrofit Hub), Sarah Louise Fletcher (Leeds Beckett University) Wednesday 30th September Main Stage (11.30am – 12.15pm) Constructing the Gold Standard: Choosing the Right Framework for Better Supply Chain Partnerships This panel will explore how the principles of the Construction Excellence Gold Standard are reshaping procurement, moving beyond lowest-price tendering towards fairer risk allocation, earlier supply chain engagement and longer-term collaborative relationships.

Moderator: Alison Nicholl (Head of Constructing Excellence, BRE & DfE) Speaker: Prof. David Hancock (Construction Director and Infrastructure Practice Lead, His Majesty’s Treasury, Expert Advisory Team & NISTA); Rob Byrnes (Frameworks Director, Vinci Building UK) Digitalisation & AI Stage (2.30pm 3.15pm) The Next Wave of AI in Construction: What Leaders Need to Know Now AI in construction has moved beyond early experimentation and the pace of change shows no sign of slowing.

Andrew Johnson from Okana returns to the AI stage to look ahead at what’s coming next: the emerging tools and capabilities set to reshape design, delivery and decision-making, and what leaders need to understand now to stay ahead rather than play catch-up.

Speaker: Andrew Johnson, Director & Founder, Okana (formerly BIM Academy) Thursday 1st October Digitalisation & AI Stage (10.30am 11.15am) Winning Work with AI: Smarter Project Lead Research for Construction This practical session will demonstrate how AI can be used to research project pipelines, analyse planning applications, identify key decision-makers, track specification opportunities and prioritise leads based on project stage, sector and buying signals.

Speaker: Angie Wilkes (Construct Virtual), Faisal Amin (One Peak Partners), Leigh Simpson (Insynth Marketing & ConstructUK), Paul Indinger (Building Radar) Main Stage (12.30pm – 1.15pm) AI in Construction: Reimagining How Real Applications Deliver Real Results [Build Better] This session will showcase real examples of AI being used to automate repetitive tasks, improve document and data management, accelerate design coordination, enhance project controls and increase productivity across construction workflows.

Speaker: Paul Beeston (Partner Head of Industry and Service Insight, Rider Levett Bucknall); Meghan Davies (Co-Founder, Cammina) Another key show feature, the Build Connect Lounge will be a chance to join focused partnerled conversations, workshops and clinics, The Build Connect Lounge will be more than a networking area.

It will act as a live event hub where key partners can host their own roundtables, workshops and clinics aligned to the Construction Reset themes.

Elsewhere, the Client & Buyer Exchange will be where visitors will be able meet buyers, specifiers and project teams, and turn conversations into commercial opportunities. It will be a more focused and purposeful evolution of traditional meet-thebuyer activity.

Sponsored by Barbour ABI, Zutec, Wyre, HotelPlanner and Build Warranty, UKCW Birmingham will feature over 250 leading brands; 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars across four stages, alongside a series of builtfor-purpose sections. Architect, TV presenter and UKCW ambassador, George Clarke will officially open the show and host the Main Stage discussions on Day One.

To find out more and to register free for UKCW Birmingham, visit www.register.visitcloud.com/survey/0hcnqiudc1lrv?actioncode=2001 WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Project & Case Study Showcase

HS2 LIFTS FIRST HUGE BEAMS FOR BIRMINGHAM’S CURZON STREET STATION The construction of an enormous deck that will help support the platforms at Birmingham’s new HS2 station has begun with the first of more than 556 concrete beams lifted into position.

The huge horizontal beams – up to 34 metres long and weighing as much as 58 tonnes – will support the seven platforms being built at Curzon Street station. Each one of the reinforced concrete beams is being precast offsite before being moved into position in a meticulously planned operation.

It underlines the scale of the progress being made on the station which will be covered by a huge arched roof the size of London’s St Pancras International.

In March, HS2 Ltd announced that all 2,011 concrete piles that form a key part of the station’s foundations had been completed.

Once complete, the station will stretch for around 450 metres between Moor Street and Millennium Point with easy onward connections to the city centre, Digbeth and Eastside. A new tram stop will also be built under the station 42

as part of the line currently under construction towards Digbeth and the site of Birmingham City’s new football stadium.

Construction of the terminus is being led by HS2’s construction partner, Mace Dragados, which is working with specialist subcontractors MPB to lift the concrete beams into place.

This work is initially focused on the area where the tram will pass under the station, so it can be handed over to Midlands Metro Alliance to begin laying track as early as possible.

HS2 Ltd’s Project Client for Curzon Street, Jonathan Berry said: “We’ve been making good progress with the construction of the station, but up to now, it’s mostly been beneath the ground – focused on the piling and foundations that will underpin the building.

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

“That’s why it’s great to see the first beams in position as we begin to assemble the enormous deck that will support our seven high speed platforms. Once complete, Curzon Street will become a new gateway to Birmingham, offering easy access to the city centre and connections to onward destinations, via tram, bus and rail, improving journeys and supporting growth across the West Midlands.”

For most of their length, Curzon Street’s seven platforms will be built on a viaduct-like structure supported by 188 concrete piers. These will form a huge 13,370 square metre deck – the size of two football pitches - which will support part of the platforms and connect to the viaducts coming into the station from the east.

The beams – which are between 7 and 34 metres long and weigh

Project & Case Study Showcase between 14 and 58 tonnes – are being manufactured in a factory in Ireland by Shay Murtagh Precast before being delivered to site by road. To avoid traffic, the deliveries are meticulously planned and timed to arrive early in the morning when the roads are quiet.

They are made up of 488 U-beams and 68 narrower L-beams.

While most of the beams will be lifted directly into position with large crawler cranes, up to 120 of the beams, which are closer in proximity to the existing railway, are being lifted onto a specialised piece of equipment called a self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT) to be moved into their final position.

Supported by 96 wheels, these highly manoeuvrable machines lift the beams to be lifted from underneath and place them precisely into position. This avoids the risk of using cranes next to the railway and allow services to keep running into Birmingham New Street during the work.

Martyn Woodhouse, Project Director, Mace Dragados Joint Venture, said: “Lifting these first beams into place is a major logistical and engineering achievement, and a testament to the coordination across our teams and supply chain. Each installation has been carefully planned to ensure it’s carried out safely and efficiently,

particularly in such a constrained and operational environment.

This work is laying the groundwork for the platforms and brings us another step closer to delivering a world-class station for Birmingham.”

Beneath the station, more than 2,000 piles, ranging from 6 to 24 metres deep, have been sunk into position

by Mace Dragados, working with specialist subcontractor Keltbray.

An 8-metre-high retaining wall has also been built at the western end of the site – where the land rises up towards the city centre - and 47,000 cubic metres of material excavated to create a level base for the platforms.

At the peak of the work, more than a thousand people are expected to be employed on the Curzon Street project, both directly and via Mace Dragados’s UK supply chain. To

accommodate the growing workforce, construction teams will soon begin moving into a new temporary office block opposite Millennium Point, which will be the nerve centre for the next stage of the project.

Once complete, the high-speed line between London and the West Midlands will become an integral part of the UK rail network, helping to improve journeys and free up space on the existing West Coast Main Line for more freight and local services.

The programme is now undergoing a fundamental reset led by Mark Wild, Chief Executive of HS2 Ltd, to ensure that the railway is delivered as efficiently as possible and for the lowest reasonable cost. www.hs2.org.uk

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Project & Case Study Showcase

TRENCHLESS INSTALLATION OF A NEW 400 METRE SEWER SYSTEM In the historic city of Treviso, Italy, a new 400-metre sewer system was installed 11 metres underground beneath an active railway line and the River Sile. Using slurry-supported microtunnelling and DN 800 KERA.Drive vitrified clay jacking pipes, the project overcame challenging groundwater and loading conditions to deliver a durable, watertight solution with minimal surface disruption.

Background In the historic city of Treviso, the construction of a new sewer system was required to support urban infrastructure in a highly sensitive environment.

The project alignment runs beneath both a railway line and the river Sile, in an area characterised by high groundwater levels similar to Venice.

The project brought together several demanding load cases, creating exceptionally complex design and construction conditions.

The Challenge The project combined an unusual 44

concentration of demanding design and construction requirements: • Installation beneath an active railway line • Crossing below the Sile river • High groundwater levels • Installation depth of approximately 11 m • Sensitive urban environment in the city centre • Long-term resistance to hydraulic and geotechnical loading

Project Overview Country: Italy City: Treviso Year of construction: 2025 Application: New Sewer Total length: 400 m Nominal diameter: DN 800 Technology: KERA.Drive Installation: Trenchless Consultant: ENKI Contractor: LF Costruzioni Client: ATS, water company

This combination of conditions created a highly complex project environment, requiring a pipe system capable of performing reliably under multiple simultaneous load cases.

The Solution A microtunnelling approach using a slurry system was selected to enable safe and precise installation under this exceptional combination

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

Project & Case Study Showcase • Successful construction at 11m depth under high groundwater pressure • No requirement for additional casing pipe • Durable, corrosion-resistant sewer system • Long-term operational reliability with minimal maintenance • Successful delivery under a combination of highly demanding project condition

of conditions. The new sewer was constructed using DN 800 KERA.Drive vitrified clay jacking pipes, supplied

by Steinzueg-Keramo, providing a direct jacked solution without the need for additional casing pipes.

Steinzueg-Keramo’s KERA.Drive vitrified clay pipes were selected due to their: • High structural capacity for jacking applications • Excellent resistance to corrosion and aggressive environments • Proven watertightness under high external pressure • Long service life with minimal maintenance requirements The ability to install a single-pipe solution under such demanding conditions significantly simplified the overall system while maintaining long-term performance.

Installation details Given the groundwater conditions and sensitive surface structures, a slurry-supported microtunnelling method was employed to ensure controlled excavation and continuous face support.

• Installation method: Microtunnelling (slurry system) • Nominal diameter: DN 800 • Total length: approx. 400 m • Installation depth: approx. 11m Results • Safe installation beneath railway and river without surface disruption

Conclusion The Treviso project demonstrates how multiple complex load cases and boundary conditions can be successfully managed within a single infrastructure scheme.

KERA.Drive vitrified clay jacking pipes provided the structural capacity, durability and watertightness required for a direct jacked solution. Despite the exceptional combination of loading conditions, the pipes remained well within their performance limits, delivering a robust and future-proof sewer system for generations to come.

Lorenzo Vidus Rosin, Sales Engineer Italy at Steinzueg-Keramo, says: “KERA.Drive is the sustainable solution. Not only from the material perspective, but also from an installation point of view.”

For more information about Steinzueg-Keramo, visit: www.steinzeug-keramo.com Or contact: uk.steinzeug-keramo@wienerberger.com

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Kent Construcion Expo

KENT CONSTRUCTION EXPO RETURNS THIS OCTOBER Produced by the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Kent Construction EXPO returns to the Kent Event Centre, Detling, on Thursday 1 October. The event brings together professionals from across the construction, property and built environment sectors for a full day of networking, conference sessions and business development.

Contractors, developers, consultants, local authorities, housing providers, manufacturers and suppliers from across Kent and the South East will be represented. More than 200 companies are expected to exhibit, alongside a conference programme featuring over 20 sessions and a range of networking events.

The day begins with the Kent Construction Focus Group Networking Breakfast, delivered in partnership with South East Consortium and Kent & Medway LSIP, the event’s Skills & Workforce Partners. Attended by more than 200 construction professionals, this year’s breakfast will look at the skills, training and workforce development needed to support the sector. Speakers will represent Jenner, Kent County Council, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and the South East Construction Technical Excellence College.

The conference programme will address some of the main issues currently affecting the industry.

Sessions include AI in project

management, winning work through frameworks and bid strategy, biodiversity net gain, building safety and compliance, circular construction, digital delivery, and attracting, developing and retaining talent.

Meet the Buyer also returns, giving suppliers the opportunity to request pre-arranged one-to-one meetings with contractors and procurement organisations looking to expand their supply chains. Confirmed buyers include Heathrow Airport, Beardwell Construction, Riglift UK Ltd, GRAHAM Construction and JT Mackley & Co Ltd, alongside Skanska and Bouygues TP Murphy JV from the Lower Thames Crossing. Further organisations will be announced.

Across the exhibition, visitors can meet companies from throughout the construction supply chain, see new

products and services, and discuss their requirements directly with suppliers and industry specialists.

The day concludes with a drinks reception and Gala Dinner. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal with live music from Ebonie G and her trio from the acclaimed Black Bird Entertainment Band. Comedian James Dowdeswell will then take to the stage as the evening’s headline act.

Kent Construction EXPO offers a chance to catch up on industry developments, find new products and suppliers, meet potential clients and reconnect with existing contacts from across the region.

Registration for the exhibition and conference is free and includes access to the Meet the Buyer appointment platform.

To find out more and register, visit KentConstructionEXPO.com

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Produced by:

Thursday 1 October 2026 Kent Event Centre, Detling Produced by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce

200+ Exhibitors 20+Semnar sessions Meet the Buyer Networking Breakfast Gala Dinner

On the Agenda

Platinum Sponsor

Skills and Workforce Partners

Kent Construction Focus Group Networking Breakfast Construction Skills Briefing: Building the Workforce of the Future Supported by Skills and Workforce Partners the Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and the South East Consortium.

2026 confirmed buyers include:

This interactive breakfast briefing brings together industry, education and skills leaders to explore apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, student engagement and workforce development. Through a facilitated Q&A, delegates will gain practical insight into current skills challenges, future workforce trends and the support available to help build the next generation of construction professionals, before networking with more than 200 industry peers.

Conference Session Highlights Winning Work in 2026: Frameworks & Bid Strategy Women Shaping Construction Biodiversity Net Gain: Lessons from Year One Plus sessions covering building safety, sustainability, skills and digital innovation

Meet the Buyer Meet the Buyer connects construction contractors, developers and procurement teams with pre-matched suppliers through a series of pre-arranged one-to-one meetings. Register for free to receive further information.

Register for FREE KentConstructionEXPO.com

Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure

PROVIDING BEST IN CLASS VIBRATION ISOLATION AND ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE Founded in 1959, Farrat has worked with architects, engineers and contractors on projects across the leisure, urban living, commercial, healthcare and education sectors, helping to address complex acoustic challenges through engineered vibration isolation solutions. From plant and mechanical equipment to entire floating floor systems, these solutions enable buildings to meet increasingly demanding acoustic performance requirements while supporting wider project objectives.

As cities and urban areas expand and evolve and quality of life improves, the need to protect people from groundborne and structure-borne noise and vibration increases. Farrat’s engineers are on a mission to pride themselves in supporting developers, engineers and contractors deliver technically demanding acoustic projects, helping create quieter, more comfortable and higher-performing built environments.

Farrat offers four specialist floating floor systems designed to meet the diverse requirements of its customers: BowlFLOOR mainly for bowling alleys, CineFloor for cinemas, theatres and other performance spaces, LeisureFLOOR for gyms, fitness centres and leisure facilities, and MechFLOOR for plant rooms, mechanical equipment areas which can also be supported by Farrat’s industrial vibration control solutions, all designed to reduce structureborne vibration and airborne sound transmission. In addition to its floating floor solutions, Farrat provides highperformance isolated wall systems

through its Cine Range, including the CineWALL product, helping to create acoustically separated spaces across a wide range of applications.

A recent example is Farrat’s involvement in the redevelopment of The Westbury Hotel in Mayfair, London. Farrat joined the project in June 2022, supplying specialist acoustic flooring for a scheme that excavated two new basement levels just 20mm from the Victoria Underground tunnel, added a new penthouse level, and extended the rear of the building to create more than 95 additional suites.

protected heritage assets, each came with strict conservation requirements including significant limitations on how much additional load their original frameworks could support.

Farrat installed their CineFLOOR acoustic floating floor system and formed part of the hotel’s wider £600 million redevelopment, helping to transform the property into a worldclass luxury destination ahead of its St. Regis licensing, valued at £1.3 billion.

The Westbury Hotel project involved the complex task of merging four individual listed buildings into a single, unified luxury property.

Because these structures are To learn more about how Farrat can support your next building acoustics project, visit www.farrat.com

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Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure

INTEGRATED ALUMINIUM SYSTEMS, ALL UNDER ONE ROOF Architectural Metal Systems Ltd (AMS) has established itself as one of Europe’s leading aluminium systems companies by offering a truly integrated manufacturing model. From aluminium extrusion and precision fabrication to anodising, powder coating and specialist decorative finishes, AMS provides customers with a comprehensive “all under one roof” solution, delivering exceptional quality, consistency and supply chain reliability.

Key benefits of working with AMS include: • Complete manufacturing capability, with in-house extrusion, fabrication and finishing operations that reduce lead times, improve quality control and simplify procurement.

• Architectural finishing expertise, offering premium anodised, powder coated and decorative finishes that provide architects and specifiers with extensive design flexibility and long-lasting aesthetic performance.

• Innovative aluminium systems incorporating advanced thermal break technology to achieve outstanding thermal performance and meet increasingly demanding building regulations.

• Supply chain efficiency through the consolidation of multiple manufacturing processes within 50

a single organisation, providing greater certainty on programme delivery.

• A customer-focused approach, underpinned by technical support, continuous investment and longstanding relationships across international markets.

• A commitment to sustainability through the use of low embodied carbon aluminium billet options.

AMS offers aluminium extrusion billet with significant recycled content, including profiles manufactured using billet containing up to 75% postconsumer recycled aluminium. By sourcing lower carbon aluminium produced using renewable energy and recycled materials, AMS helps customers reduce the embodied carbon of their projects without compromising on quality, performance or aesthetics.

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

• International reach combined with local manufacturing expertise, supplying high-quality aluminium based products across Ireland, the UK and international markets.

• For architects, fabricators and construction professionals, Architectural Metal Systems Ltd offers more than just aluminium products—it delivers an integrated manufacturing partnership that combines technical innovation, sustainable manufacturing and dependable service, helping to bring complex architectural visions to life efficiently and responsibly.

Architectural & Metal Systems Wallingstown, Little Island, Co. Cork, Ireland. T45 VP40.

T +353 21 4705100 E info@ams.ie www.ams.ie

www.ams.ie

Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure

INFRASTRUCTURE IS NOT A BACKOFFICE FUNCTION – IT’S DEFINING THE FUTURE OF HOUSING

By Anthony Lowe, GTC Construction Director

For years, utility infrastructure sat quietly in the background of residential development. Essential, but not always strategic. Electricity, water, gas, and communications were treated largely as operational tasks to complete before attention moved elsewhere. Success was measured by connection dates and handovers - once the lights and heating came on and the water flowed, the conversation ended.

Today, much has changed, and infrastructure is one of the major forces shaping the viability, pace, and long-term success of housing delivery across the UK. Developers and housebuilders are facing a multitude of pressures: constrained electricity capacity, the transition to lowcarbon heating, tighter regulation, digitalisation, planning complexity and increasing pressure on margins and cash flow.

What has changed most dramatically is that utilities can no longer be viewed as

isolated systems. Electricity networks are intrinsically linked to heating strategy. Reliable fibre connectivity is essential for the operation of intelligent energy management systems. Solar PV, battery storage and EV charging must operate together within developments that are increasingly expected to function as connected ecosystems, rather than simply collections of individual homes. At the same time, residents expect reliability, transparency, and seamless service from day one.

Housebuilders are now looking beyond simple installation capability. They need to work with utility partners that have delivery coordination, programme certainty, financial strength, and long-term accountability. In a market where delays, fragmented responsibility and rising infrastructure costs can quickly impact project viability, the ability to align infrastructure strategy with wider development goals has become critical.

One of the biggest challenges facing developers today is the growing financial burden associated with upfront utility investment. Modern housing schemes, particularly those designed around electrification and low-carbon heating, require significant infrastructure capacity. Managing that capital exposure while maintaining build momentum is becoming increasingly difficult as projects increase in scale and complexity.

This is why long-term infrastructure models are becoming more prevalent across the sector. Increasingly, developers are seeking arrangements where networks are designed, funded, constructed, owned, and operated by a single accountable organisation. That approach changes the economics of delivery by reducing upfront capital requirements and creating greater certainty across the lifecycle of a development. It also changes incentives.

Infrastructure decisions driven purely by short-term cost reduction can create operational and reputational problems years later. Networks designed for minimum compliance rather than long-term resilience rarely age well. By contrast, when organisations retain longterm operational responsibility, infrastructure is more likely to be engineered with durability, reliability, and future performance in mind from the outset.

That long-term perspective is particularly important as the industry navigates the transition toward low-

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Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure revision can trigger multiple approval cycles. Different providers operate to different timelines, priorities, and communication structures. As plans evolve during construction, complexity escalates quickly.

carbon housing. The Future Homes Standard is not just another layer of regulation. It mandates a shift in how homes are powered, heated, and connected. Electricity capacity, once viewed as a relatively straightforward utility requirement, has become one of the biggest constraints affecting residential development in many parts of the UK. The electrification of heat, combined with EV charging demand and the growing integration of renewable technologies, is reshaping energy requirements within new communities. In some areas, securing sufficient grid capacity now directly influences development viability and build-out speed.

As a result, infrastructure planning has become far more strategic.

Housebuilders require greater flexibility around points of connection, substation delivery, capacity ramping and network coordination to maintain programme certainty. Delays linked to electricity infrastructure are no longer isolated operational issues; they can have significant commercial consequences across an entire scheme.

Low-carbon heat networks provide another example of why long-term operational thinking matters. The transition away from traditional gas heating presents both opportunity and risk for developers. Technologies such as networked air source and ground source heat pumps can deliver significant carbon reductions, but long-term performance depends

heavily on design quality, operational management, and ongoing maintenance.

Historically, construction and operation have often been fragmented. One organisation installs a system; another adopts it later. That separation can create conflicting priorities, delays at handover and uncertainty around accountability. It can also encourage design decisions focused on shortterm delivery rather than long-term operational performance.

Integrated infrastructure models help remove that disconnect by creating continuity between design, construction, and operation. Networks are engineered not simply to pass inspection at completion, but to perform efficiently over decades.

That continuity provides greater clarity commercially, operationally, and technically, particularly as developments become more complex.

The value of joined-up delivery becomes even clearer when considering the realities of construction on site.

Fragmented utility provision has long been accepted as standard within residential development. Multiple providers, separate contracts, repeated excavation works and overlapping delivery schedules have traditionally been viewed as unavoidable. Yet the inefficiencies associated with that fragmentation are substantial.

Every additional interface creates another potential delay. Every design

Coordinated multi-utility delivery offers a far more efficient alternative.

Delivering electricity, water, wastewater, fibre, and low-carbon heat infrastructure through a single integrated framework simplifies one of the most operationally challenging aspects of development delivery.

One design strategy, one programme structure and one accountable organisation can significantly improve coordination across build phases.

Scale and resilience matter too. As infrastructure demands increase, developers are placing greater value on organisations with the financial strength, operational maturity and long-term capability required to support large-scale residential growth.

Funding certainty and regulated operational expertise are becoming increasingly important in a market defined by volatility and delivery risk.

Ultimately, residential development is entering a new phase. One where infrastructure strategy and housing strategy are becoming inseparable.

The industry is moving away from transactional procurement toward long-term infrastructure partnerships.

Housebuilders are no longer simply asking who can install a network fastest or cheapest. They are asking who can reduce complexity, protect programme certainty, support future compliance, and remain accountable long after construction ends. Because infrastructure risk does not end at installation. In many ways, that is where responsibility truly begins.

And as the future of housing becomes increasingly connected, electrified and low carbon, the organisations best placed to support residential growth will be those capable of thinking beyond handover - and designing infrastructure for the lifetime of the communities it serves. www.gtc-uk.co.uk

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure

MORSON PRAXIS TRIPLES FRAMEWORK PRESENCE WITHIN THE NUCLEAR INDUSTRY Morson Praxis, the engineering consultancy business within Morson Group, has secured places on two additional engineering frameworks within the nuclear industry following a joint tendering process between EDF and Sizewell C. Building on a relationship with EDF that spans more than 15 years, Morson Praxis has successfully retained its long-standing position supporting the Hinkley Point C project through its contract with NNB Genco (the EDF subsidiary responsible for delivering HPC), with embedded teams working on site in Somerset. The company has now also secured appointment to the Sizewell C and EDF Nuclear Operations frameworks, potentially tripling its involvement with the next phase of nuclear development and operation in the UK. The achievement marks the latest milestone in a relationship that began when the business - then operating as Waldeck - began supporting EDF on power generation projects, before becoming involved in the earliest stages of Hinkley Point C. Acquired by Morson Group in 2018, the engineering consultancy became part of the group’s Praxis business as part of a strategic transformation in 2025, continuing to grow its specialist nuclear team alongside the Hinkley Point C project. Over the past 15 years, it has expanded from a small team of specialist engineers to a dedicated Nuclear New Build division of around 50 professionals.

Hinkley Point C is one of Europe’s largest infrastructure programmes and Morson Praxis works as an embedded engineering partner within NNB GenCo’s site engineering organisation, helping to manage engineering change, configuration control, and regulatory compliance.

The team’s experience and specialist expertise ensure Morson Praxis fulfils Intelligent Customer (IC) capability as a trusted partner, helping to deliver the safety critical asset.

Richard Sargent, Nuclear New Build Director at Morson Praxis, said: ‘Securing a place on two additional frameworks as well as retaining our role on Hinkley Point C is a significant endorsement of the relationship we have built with EDF and NNB GenCo over the past 15 years.

‘What makes this particularly rewarding is the journey we have been on together. We started as a relatively small engineering consultancy supporting EDF on early projects and have grown alongside Hinkley Point C into a specialist nuclear new build

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team with extensive experience of delivering engineering support.

“Our success has been built on close collaboration with the client and ensuring that our team has a deep understanding of the challenges involved in delivering major nuclear projects and maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality and regulatory compliance.’

Leveraging the expertise that Morson Praxis has developed from their work on Hinkley Point C by appointing the company to additional frameworks will enable SZC and Nuclear Operations to amplify the value Morson Praxis’ experience, opening up possibilities for replication and efficiency as the UK’s nuclear sector continues to address the challenge of delivering new low-carbon generation capacity. The framework awards reflect EDF and SZC’s wider approach to broadening its engineering supply chain. www.morson-praxis.com

Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure

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Civils, Facilities & Infrastructure

COMAX ROOFS ATTEND UKCW FOR THE 5TH YEAR! We are pleased to announce our attendance again at this year’s UK Construction Week show in Birmingham for the 5th year running. We launched here as a brand-new business just over 10 years ago and really have brought something different to the marketplace.

Our biggest success story for sure is our easy fit Standing Seam system KLIK 31, which is manufactured from premiumgrade aluminium and enhanced by the high-performance CORTEX® surface coating. Thanks to its exceptional corrosion resistance and advanced protective finish, it is an ideal choice for the wet weather conditions in the United Kingdom, while also performing exceptionally well in demanding coastal environments.

Lightweight yet remarkably strong, Klik places a minimal load on roof structures and provides a modern architectural solution for homeowners, architects, and developers alike. The highly sought-after Anthracite Grey finish remains a popular choice, however we have a range of coatings and shades being an established coil coating business as well. Did you know that we only have a MOQ of 400 square metres for a custom RAL shade? This makes us very competitive and flexible in this area also It is also hugely cost effective compared to a traditionally formed standing seam roof, we can also supply coils to be formed on site as well.

Quality begins with complete control over the manufacturing process. COMAX ROOFS operates its own state-of-the-art coil coating line, giving us full control over the quality and consistency of every finish. We guarantee the origin and traceability of our materials, provide comprehensive technical support and customer service, and stand behind our products with warranties of up to 70 years. Our success has been built on our close working relationships

with merchants and customers alike.

We are always here to help!

We are also excited about the launch of the Solroof® PV standing seam system into the UK as well. An innovative system that integrates photovoltaic panels directly into the roofing material itself, unlike conventional panels, Solroof combines resilience and renewable energy generation in one elegant solution, producing clean electricity without compromising the building’s appearance.

Returning 209W/sqm, this really is a game changing product that we cannot wait for people to see.

From initial design consultation through to long-term customer care, we deliver a complete service package backed by decades of expertise.

That is why COMAX ROOFS are Roofs with Heritage....

www.comaxroofs.co.uk

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Technology & Digital Construction

BEYOND DESIGN INTENT: MEASURING HOW BUILDINGS PERFORM IN USE A completed building can look exactly as intended and still behave differently once it is occupied. Solar gain, changing weather, occupant routines, heating and ventilation controls, and internal layouts all influence the conditions experienced once occupied. Yet project teams often have limited evidence of what happens after handover. indoor temperature and relative humidity monitoring in generally dry environments. Depending on the selected model, data loggers can support ambient measurements, remote sensing or comparisons between different points. Recorded data can then be reviewed and modelled using software.

This creates a gap between design intent and operational reality. A commissioning snapshot may confirm that systems worked at a particular moment, but it cannot show how temperature and relative humidity vary through the day, between rooms or across different seasons. Nor can a single wall-mounted sensor reveal localised effects near glazing, external walls, or areas with contrasting finishes.

Post-occupancy environmental monitoring helps turn these unknowns into usable evidence.

By recording conditions over time, architects, technologists and building teams can identify patterns that short inspections miss. Measurements can help compare orientations and zones, investigate reports of discomfort, assess environmental stability and understand whether an unexpected condition is persistent or temporary.

The value lies in beginning with a clear question. Such as: Is the aim to understand overheating, compare refurbished and untreated spaces, 58

examine conditions around sensitive materials, or assess how an interior responds to changing use? The right question should guide what is measured, where equipment is positioned and how long the study runs. Monitoring must also avoid obvious sources of misleading readings, such as direct sunlight, local heat sources or unrepresentative draughts.

Internal environmental monitoring does not replace professional judgement, building modelling or commissioning. It adds a further layer of real-world information. When combined with knowledge of the building fabric, services and occupancy, recorded trends can support a more informed diagnosis and help teams decide whether further investigation or adjustment is warranted.

Compact standalone data loggers are particularly useful for temporary studies because they can be placed at selected points without permanent monitoring infrastructure. Tinytag Ultra 2 loggers provide options for

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

For architects and designers, the opportunity extends beyond resolving a single issue. Evidence gathered from completed buildings can inform material choices, detailing, refurbishment strategies and future briefs. It can also create more constructive conversations between designers, contractors, facilities teams and occupants by giving each party a shared record of conditions.

Closing the performance gap begins with understanding it. When environmental monitoring is planned around a meaningful question, postoccupancy data can help transform a finished project into a source of practical learning for the next one.

For more information about environmental monitoring within buildings, visit: www.geminidataloggers.com/ building-monitoring

Designed. Built. Measured.

Tinytag Ultra 2 data loggers record indoor conditions over time, helping you understand how completed spaces perform in use.

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Reveal patterns that snapshots and occasional checks can miss.

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Build evidence around comfort concerns and unexpected conditions.

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Investigate differences between rooms, zones and orientations.

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Turn completed buildings into practical learning for the next project.

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Technology & Digital Construction

KEEPING BUSINESS RUNNING WHEN THE POWER STOPS For organisations operating critical infrastructure, even a momentary interruption to the power supply can have significant consequences. From lost productivity and disrupted services to damaged equipment and data loss, maintaining a reliable source of power has become an essential consideration across an increasingly technology-dependent built environment.

Power Continuity works with organisations throughout the UK to create resilient power solutions capable of protecting operations when the mains supply is interrupted. With more than 30 years of experience, the company combines technical expertise with an understanding of the demands placed on modern critical infrastructure.

Its approach begins by understanding the individual requirements of each

site. Rather than relying on a standard solution, systems can be designed around existing infrastructure, operational demands and the level of resilience required.

UPS systems provide immediate protection when the mains supply is disrupted, while standby generators can support operations during longer outages. Combined with appropriate battery systems, switchgear and supporting electrical infrastructure, these technologies form an important part of a comprehensive power continuity strategy.

Power Continuity’s expertise extends beyond installation. Its engineers provide ongoing maintenance and support for critical power infrastructure, helping organisations identify potential issues before they develop into costly failures.

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The company works across a broad range of demanding environments, including data centres, healthcare, banking, manufacturing and major infrastructure, where maintaining continuity can be particularly important.

As buildings and businesses become increasingly reliant on connected technology, electrical systems and digital infrastructure, the need to plan for unexpected power disruption continues to grow.

For Power Continuity, the objective is straightforward: to ensure that when mains power fails, the systems its customers depend upon don’t have to.

www.powercontinuity.co.uk

14-15 October 2026

Connecting you to the hottest new trends in the smart buildings industry Smart Buildings Show is the UK’s only dedicated commercial smart buildings conference and exhibition.

■ Keep up to date with the latest innovations and technologies ■ Meet the leading suppliers to the market ■ Find new partners and business opportunities ■ Network with your peers from other organisations

REGISTER NOW AT: WWW.SMARTBUILDINGSSHOW.COM PLATINUM SPONSORS

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Smart Building Expo

CREATING BUILDINGS FOR A SMARTER FUTURE SMART BUILDINGS SHOW 2026 EXCEL LONDON, 14TH-15TH OCTOBER 2026 Smart Buildings Show returns to ExCeL London on 14th-15th October 2026.

In 2025 the UK’s only dedicated commercial smart buildings conference and exhibition enjoyed its biggest event yet with more exhibitors than ever before and 3,500 attendees passing through the doors over two days.

Latest innovations for your building project Whether you’re working on a newbuild project, a refurbishment, or a complete restoration, today’s buildings need to meet the expectations of a generation that values sustainability, practicality, efficiency and comfort. For the architects, designers, contractors and built-environment professionals, creating spaces that perform as well as they look is becoming increasingly important.

As the industry responds to the need to reduce energy consumption, 62

operational costs and environmental impact, smart building technology is moving from a specialist consideration to an essential part of modern design and construction. Intelligent systems can help transform how buildings operate, while supporting the longterm performance and usability of the spaces we create.

Smart Buildings Show 2026 brings together the latest technologies, innovations and expertise from across the smart buildings sector, giving visitors the opportunity to discover practical solutions and gain valuable

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

insight into the future of connected, efficient buildings.

For professionals involved in design, construction, refurbishment or restoration, the show provides an opportunity to explore how smart technology can be integrated into projects at every stage. From intelligent lighting and heating to ventilation, security, energy management and automated controls, connected systems can help create buildings that are more responsive to their users and more efficient to operate.

Smart Building Expo Real-time monitoring and automation can optimise building performance according to occupancy and usage, helping reduce unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining comfortable environments. For building owners, this can translate into lower operating costs and improved efficiency. For occupants, it can mean greater comfort, convenience and control.

Whether you’re specifying systems for a client, upgrading an existing property or developing a new project, Smart Buildings Show 2026 offers an opportunity to discover how intelligent technology can help create better-performing buildings for the future.

The Conference Once again Smart Buildings Show will host a two-day Conference covering a wide range of key issues and topics from the smart buildings industry.

Visitors will enjoy free access to the best speakers from across the sector.

In 2026 there will be four free to attend theatres: Energy Management Theatre; Controls & Network Theatre; IT & Digital Infrastructure Theatre and Management & Proptech Theatre.

Smart Buildings Show will cover all key aspects of creating and managing a smart building: • Find the information you need to make your buildings more economic and functional • Be part of the latest thinking and share the experience of other organisations • See what’s new in the industry and keep up to date with latest innovations and technologies • Learn from case studies in similar situations and organisations to yours • Catch up with your current suppliers and meet new ones • Find new partners and business opportunities • Network with your peers from other organisations • Find ways of saving money For further information and free registration visit: www.smartbuildingsshow.com

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Access, Scaffolding & Temporary Works

THE URBAN REGENERATION BOOM: NAVIGATING COMPLEX INNER-CENTRE PROJECTS Ambitious urban regeneration is pushing UK construction into increasingly complex environments. Rob Powell, design manager, major projects at Groundforce Shorco, explores the specialised engineering required to navigate unique urban constraints, prevent costly structural delays, and de-risk the ‘unbuildable’ sites of 2026.

When temporary works and geotechnical assessments are treated as an afterthought and deferred until the construction phase, a project is forced to inherit fixed design constraints that severely compromise buildability. In contrast, moving this technical intervention upstream into the tender and early design stages fundamentally shifts how risk is managed.

Developers are no longer looking at clear, open sites; instead, the modern frontier centers on the retention, adaptation, and repurposing of existing structures.

Driven by both sustainability objectives and the principles of the circular economy, this shift away from demolition fundamentally changes the engineering challenge, turning the ground beneath our cities into one of the most volatile variables on the balance sheet.

To navigate unique urban constraints, prevent costly structural delays, and de-risk the complex sites of 2026, the industry must change how it approaches enabling works.

Managing technical ground hurdles is no longer just a site-level concern - it 64

is a critical commercial risk that can determine the baseline viability of an entire project.

In deep city-centre basements bordered by sensitive infrastructure, early coordination allows excavation sequencing and lateral support systems to be designed around the exact zone of influence of neighbouring assets.

Moving the engineering intervention upstream The term “unbuildable” is often used to describe sites that present significant construction challenges during the early stages of project planning. These are highly restricted city-centre sites where load requirements are massive, access is microscopic, and excavations fall within the zones of influence of sensitive structures like live underground lines, transport hubs, or Grade II listed buildings.

Rather than reacting to ground movement during construction, the engineering strategy is designed to mitigate it from the outset. This proactive, integrated approach allows access constraints to be addressed early, ensuring that temporary works design accounts for the weight and installation requirements of support systems. Through early coordination, the correct plant and handling methods can be specified, enabling installation in highly constrained environments without relying on oversized or impractical lifting solutions.

However, very few sites are genuinely unbuildable. More often, that label simply reflects when specialist engineering expertise is introduced to the project.

Long before logistics can escalate into a site crisis, early technical certainty bridges the gap between a volatile geotechnical estimate and a predictable project delivery.

CONSTRUCT IT | WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK

Access, Scaffolding & Temporary Works Risk management and mitigation Ground conditions have always influenced design, but in constrained urban sites, they increasingly determine whether a project is commercially viable in the first place. With urban land at a premium, developers are looking to maximise every square meter of available space.

Rather than expanding outward, many schemes now incorporate double-level basements, while existing buildings are being extended below ground to create additional usable space.

In these circumstances, understanding the precise ground conditions and structural interfaces becomes fundamental to controlling project risk. Unforeseen geotechnical shifts can quickly undermine cost assumptions and delay programs.

De-risking through digital innovation Advances in engineering, digital modelling, monitoring technology, and construction methodologies continue to expand what is achievable. When specialist engineers become involved early enough, constraints that initially appear to make a site unviable instead become manageable engineering challenges.

Digital modelling and real-time monitoring are transforming how project teams manage this subground uncertainty. They improve coordination during design while providing confidence that

engineering assumptions remain valid throughout construction.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) does not need to be overly complex to deliver value. With most project information now produced in 3D environments like Revit, temporary works designers can readily integrate their proposals into the wider project model. This improves multidisciplinary coordination, reduces structural clashes, and helps identify potential issues long before equipment arrives on a high-pressure live site.

Once construction begins, realtime load monitoring on critical struts provides a vital layer of empirical validation. By tracking loads and structural behaviour throughout the construction lifecycle, project teams can validate initial

design assumptions and identify unexpected trends at an early stage.

Rather than simply reacting to structural movement, monitoring allows engineering decisions to be continuously verified as construction progresses.

The future of urban delivery As city centre developments become increasingly constrained, future success will depend less on isolated technical innovations and more on how effectively project teams collaborate from the earliest stages of project planning.

Earlier engagement between developers, contractors, designers, and specialist engineers will be critical to improving buildability, reducing uncertainty, and developing more sustainable construction strategies before work begins on site. Alongside this cultural shift, advances in data-driven decisionmaking will continue to improve project certainty.

As developable land becomes scarcer, the projects that succeed won’t necessarily be those with the biggest budgets. They will be the ones where specialist temporary works engineering is integrated early enough to unlock value, manage risk, and transform the most challenging urban footprints into highly viable developments. www.vpgroundforce.com

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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Skills, Training & Recruitment

WHY THE FUTURE WORKFORCE NEEDS EXPERIENCED BEGINNERS For many people, the word “apprentice” still brings to mind a school leaver entering the workplace for the first time, with their school tie and blazer only just going into retirement.

However, apprenticeships are increasingly being explored by people in their 30s, 40s and beyond as a way to change industries, develop new skills and gain qualifications while continuing to earn.

In England, more than half of apprenticeship starts are now made by people aged 25 and over. Mature apprentices are no longer a minority; they are a significant part of the workforce.

In a working life that may span four or five decades, taking time to retrain should not be viewed as a step backwards. For many people, it can be one of the most valuable investments they make in themselves.

Mature apprentices may be new to a role or industry, but they are rarely new to work. They bring transferable skills, reliability, resilience and experience of managing responsibilities. They also often have a clear understanding of why they are making a change and what they want to achieve.

He was missing important moments in their lives, from his son’s first steps, and trips to the local park, family days out, and homework with his older children, to the everyday bedtime routines that mattered just as much.

Craig commented: “This situation motivated me to look for a new career path that would offer better prospects and a more rewarding future.”

His route into construction began unexpectedly during improvement works to his kitchen. A conversation with the site manager overseeing the works led Craig to explore an apprenticeship opportunity at United Infrastructure.

At United Infrastructure, Craig Lloyd’s career journey demonstrates just how effective a mature apprenticeship can be.

Craig said: “I wanted to create a better life for my wife and children.

At the time, I felt stuck financially and mentally. I couldn’t see any opportunities for progression or personal development, and the overtime meant I was missing important moments with my family.”

Craig was in his late 30s, living locally in Wolverhampton, working full-time and regularly taking on overtime to support his family. Despite the additional hours, he was still living from payday to payday, with little opportunity to progress in his role as a salvage yard operative.

Making the change required Craig to accept an initial pay cut and return to the classroom for the first time in 25 years. Having left school with poor grades, he was nervous about returning to education and learning alongside people much younger than himself.

More importantly, the extra hours were taking him away from his wife and children at a time when he felt they were growing up far too quickly.

However, the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification and prove what he was capable of became one of his greatest motivations.

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Craig’s experience highlights one of the most important qualities mature apprentices can bring to a business determination.

Adults changing careers may have mortgages, families and significant financial responsibilities. Choosing to begin again is rarely an easy decision.

Those who make that leap often bring a strong sense of purpose and a genuine commitment to making the opportunity work.

They also bring skills developed through previous roles and life experience. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving and accountability are all valuable qualities that can transfer between industries, even when technical knowledge still needs to be developed.

This does not mean employers should choose mature apprentices instead of younger people. Industries such as construction and infrastructure need both.

Young apprentices bring energy, fresh perspectives and the opportunity to develop skills from the beginning of their working lives. Mature apprentices bring broader experience, established workplace behaviours and a different outlook on learning and development.

The strongest teams make space for people of different ages, experiences and backgrounds to learn from one another.

Skills, Training & Recruitment

However, attracting mature apprentices requires more than simply advertising an attractive vacancy. Employers must recognise the barriers adults can face when considering a career change.

Returning to education can be daunting, particularly for someone who did not enjoy school or has spent decades believing academic qualifications are beyond their reach.

Apprentice salaries may also be difficult for people with significant and already established financial commitments.

It is also important to recognise the level of commitment an apprenticeship requires.

Apprenticeships are full-time roles, with adult apprentices typically working around 30 hours a week, including time spent completing their training. Many will also need to study for assessments outside those hours. Depending on the role and qualification, an apprenticeship can take between one and four years to complete. They are not an easy alternative to traditional employment or education; they demand hard work, discipline and a sustained commitment to learning.

Businesses like United Infrastructure are therefore providing clear progression routes, supportive managers and an environment in which people feel comfortable asking questions, learning from mistakes and building their confidence.

“I’m much happier now, and that’s something my wife and family have noticed,” Craig said. “I’m able to spend more time with them and make the most of family life. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited about the opportunities still ahead.”

For Craig, that support helped him overcome challenges both inside and outside the classroom. During his first three months with United Infrastructure, he climbed to the top of scaffolding and walked across the roof of a 21-storey block of flats in central Wolverhampton. Before beginning his apprenticeship, his fear of heights meant he would not climb beyond the third step of a stepladder.

As the UK works to address skills shortages across construction and infrastructure, businesses cannot afford to focus on only one age group or one traditional route into employment.

Craig has since completed his Level 4 qualification, begun studying for a Bachelor of Science with Honours, in Construction Management and been promoted to Assistant Site Manager within the Heath Town Estate redevelopment in Wolverhampton.

The change has given him far more than a new job. He now has a clear career path, greater responsibility and opportunities to continue developing, while also having more time for one more bedtime story with his children.

They must consider people at every stage of life. Entry requirements should recognise transferable experience as well as academic achievement. Most importantly, employers must make it clear that apprenticeships are open to those who may believe they have already missed their chance.

Craig’s journey is a reminder that it is never too late to take a different path. An apprenticeship can open the door to a career that once felt out of reach—and give you the confidence to discover just how high you can climb.

www.unitedinfrastructure.com

WWW.CONSTRUCT-IT.UK | CONSTRUCT IT

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