WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff has agreed to buy the industrial water consultancy business of global oilfield services company Schlumberger. Acquisition of the 250-employee business will enable the company to provide water consulting services to industrial clients worldwide and will establish a presence for WSP in Chile and Peru. The acquisition will
Savills, on behalf of Pelican Partners (Peterborough) LLP, has let office space at Midgate House on Midgate, Peterborough to The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). The charity has agreed to a new 15-year lease for offices on the first and second floors of the building, totalling 19,145 sq
Tideway, the company established to construct the Thames Tideway Tunnel in London, has listed bonds totalling £100m on the London Stock Exchange. Above: Preparatory works are already under way in central London Linked to the retail price index, £50m will mature in 2048 and the remaining £50m in 2054. They
A Halifax paper mill firm has been fined for safety breaches after a worker suffered severe crush injuries to his right hand. Bradford Crown Court heard that the injured worker sustained serious crush injuries in September 2013 while changing a couch roll on a board machine at Sonoco Cores & Paper Ltd’s
Property company Network Space has completed phase two of an industrial development that is taking shape in Merseyside. The first phase of the Mere Grange development in St Helens was completed in July 2018 and comprised 90,500 sq ft split across four individual buildings, ranging in size from 18,500 sq
World Mental Health Awareness Day took place yesterday, (10th October) and the construction industry have been making a stand in ensuring the well-being of workers is a top priority. Shockingly, it has been reported that men in the construction industry who are regarded as low-skilled labourers, are a staggering three
Aramark wants to remind people about the importance of minding their mental wellbeing through the TAKE15 campaign, part of World Mental Health Day. “When I played rugby for Munster and Ireland it was obvious to me how important physical activity is for your mental health. It’s good that we are
An MSP will be raising a further motion addressing the ongoing campaign to confer statutory recognition on Scotland’s professional electricians in the Scottish Parliament later this month. The move, by Jamie Halcro Johnston, Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP for the Highlands and Islands, is the latest in a determined campaign
Good news for the construction industry of Britain, as construction output has increased by 1.5% in the last three months. This statistic is lead by a 15% growth in construction throughout the North West, which official data has shown is at least 10 times the national average for growth rate.
Shelbourne Motors has appointed local building contractor O’Hare & McGovern to build its new £5m multi-franchise facility in Newry as Renault signs-up to the showpiece development. The Newry based Chartered building company has commenced work on the 50,000 sq ft development that will create 60 new jobs when it’s scheduled
WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff has agreed to buy the industrial water consultancy business of global oilfield services company Schlumberger. Acquisition of the 250-employee business will enable the company to provide water consulting services to industrial clients worldwide and will establish a presence for WSP in Chile and Peru. The acquisition will also add to the company’s presence in a number of, including the United States, the UK, Colombia and Mexico. “The industrial water consultancy team will bring WSP an increased presence in the attractive global water market, more specifically, in the supply, management, control and environmental protection of water,” said Alexandre L’Heureux, the incoming president and chief executive officer of WSP. “We are strengthening our presence in South America, a region we are targeting in our 2015-2018 strategic plan. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2016. This article was published on 20 Jun 2016 (last updated on 20 Jun 2016). Source link
Savills, on behalf of Pelican Partners (Peterborough) LLP, has let office space at Midgate House on Midgate, Peterborough to The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). The charity has agreed to a new 15-year lease for offices on the first and second floors of the building, totalling 19,145 sq ft (1,778 sq m). This follows the recent letting to Reed Recruitment, who will also occupy space on the first floor totalling 2,970 sq ft (276 sq m). Refurbishment work has commenced on the entrance and reception area at Midgate House where up to 17,578 sq ft (1,633 sq m) still remains available to let on the third floor. The space is being marketed at a quoting rent of £10 per sq ft (£107 per sq m). 109,778 sq ft (10,197 sq m) at the RNIB’s former premises at Orton Southgate is also being sold by Savills. Edward Gee, associate in the business space team at Savills Peterborough, comments: “Situated in the heart of Peterborough city centre, Midgate House offers good quality office space and is an ideal location for The RNIB’s new Peterborough office. We are very pleased to have helped facilitate the move and to retain such a high profile occupier in the city.” The Royal National Institute of Blind People was advised by Spoke Consultancy. Source link
Tideway, the company established to construct the Thames Tideway Tunnel in London, has listed bonds totalling £100m on the London Stock Exchange. Above: Preparatory works are already under way in central London Linked to the retail price index, £50m will mature in 2048 and the remaining £50m in 2054. They have deferred purchase dates of June 2020 and June 2021. Tideway is stumping up £3.1bn of the super sewer project’s total £4.2bn cost, with the remainder coming from Thames Water. Last month Tideway agreed a £700m loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB). Tideway chief financial officer Mark Corben said: “This innovative, deferred-purchased bond issue marks Tideway’s debut on the capital markets. Combined with our loan recently agreed with the EIB, it will help secure the financing for our long-term investment programme, locked-in at 2015 rates. It is another key step forward in our work to clean up the River Thames.” Main construction work on the Thames Tideway Tunnel is due to start later this year and be completed by early 2024. Construction of the £4.2bn project (2011 prices) will be under three main contracts: BMB JV (BAM Nuttall, Morgan Sindall and Balfour Beatty) has the £416m West contract FLO JV (Ferrovial Agroman UK and Laing O’Rourke Construction) has the £746m Central contract CVB JV (Costain Vinci Construction Grands Projects and Bachy Soletanche) has the £605m East contract. Stretching 25km through the heart of London, the main tunnel’s inner diameter will measure 7.2 metres. It will have a storage volume of 1.24 million cubic metres and run up to 66 metres underground, largely following the course of the river. Tideway is the trading name of Bazalgette Tunnel Limited, established in August 2015. Its shareholders are a consortium of investors comprising funds managed by Allianz Infrastructure Luxembourg, Amber Infrastructure Group, Dalmore Capital Limited, and DIF from the Netherlands. This article was published on 3 Jun 2016 (last updated on 3 Jun 2016). Source link
A Halifax paper mill firm has been fined for safety breaches after a worker suffered severe crush injuries to his right hand. Bradford Crown Court heard that the injured worker sustained serious crush injuries in September 2013 while changing a couch roll on a board machine at Sonoco Cores & Paper Ltd’s Halifax plant. The worker’s middle finger was severed in the machine and he required subsequent amputation of both his index and ring fingers. He is now registered as partly disabled. Sonoco Cores & Paper Ltd of Stainland, Halifax pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was fined £120,000.00 with £6,354.00 costs. After the hearing, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Inspector Jackie Ferguson said: “The company failed to provide a safe system of work for changing couch rolls on a board machine. Their risk assessment for this type of work was not suitable or sufficient, it had identified the hazard , yet it did not consider the likelihood or severity of the risk and did not identify appropriate measures to prevent an uncontrolled fall of the machine’s hinged steel arm” “Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate action against those that fall below the required standards.” Notes to Editors: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. It aims to reduce work-related death, injury and ill health. It does so through research, information and advice, promoting training; new or revised regulations and codes of practice, and working with local authority partners by inspection, investigation and enforcement. www.hse.gov.uk More about the legislation referred to in this case can be found at: www.legislation.gov.uk/ HSE news releases are available at http://press.hse.gov.uk Journalists should approach HSE press office with any queries on regional press releases. Source link
Property company Network Space has completed phase two of an industrial development that is taking shape in Merseyside. The first phase of the Mere Grange development in St Helens was completed in July 2018 and comprised 90,500 sq ft split across four individual buildings, ranging in size from 18,500 sq ft to 26,350 sq ft. Each unit is self-contained, built to a high specification and designed to appeal to the needs of a wide range of logistics and industrial users. Phase 2 comprises a 51,400 sq ft unit which is currently under construction and has been pre-let to a specialist commercial laundry firm, Synergy LMS, on a 25-year lease. Caddick Construction are the contractors responsible for the build and completion is anticipated next month. Network Space has also recently secured planning for a 20,000 sq ft unit on the final phase which has been pre-let to an electrical distribution business. Construction of the unit is due to commence on site next month with completion before the end of the year. Stephen Barnes, Managing Director (Development) at Network Space, said: “We are delighted with progress at Mere Grange as we near completion of Phase 2 and shortly look to commence Phase 3. “In attracting the calibre of occupiers we have, Mere Grange has beaten off strong competition from other sites in the region. This is not only testament to the quality of accommodation we are delivering at the site but also the quality of the location and our proactive approach in responding to occupiers needs. “I’d like to thank the professional team for their hard work, together with our partners St Helens MBC and Homes England who have been actively involved in supporting the project. We look forward to successfully completing the final phase later this year.” Mere Grange is being developed in association with Homes England, St Helens Council and Liverpool City Region Combined Regional Authority. Cllr Derek Long, Leader of St Helens Council, added: “The development at Mere Grange is precisely the type of new employment space we require in St Helens in that it can support multiple different sectors. The Borough has a tradition in pharmaceuticals, and health and medical technology businesses.”
World Mental Health Awareness Day took place yesterday, (10th October) and the construction industry have been making a stand in ensuring the well-being of workers is a top priority. Shockingly, it has been reported that men in the construction industry who are regarded as low-skilled labourers, are a staggering three times more likely to take their own life, according to recent figures released by the ONS. This is an issue the construction industry are working hard to address. Construction industry workers can often be on their own for extended periods of time, such as when using a digger, crane or tractor, which is not always beneficial to the worker and now individuals who are set to undertake certain jobs are being thought of with more care. The ONS have estimated that factors relating to mental illness, such as stress, worry, anxiety and depression can equate to around 15 million sick days to be taken annually across the UK. Not only is mental health potentially at enormous personal cost, the economy suggests a wider impact can also be seen. The cost of mental health in Wales was estimated to be a £7.9 billion in 2009, inclusive of NHS costs. Productivity issues also come to light when mental illness strikes, and now first aiders are also being trained in mental health first aid, who can then use their learning to look out for other workers who may be struggling. The construction industry is a broad collective that is made up of people from all backgrounds of life and who contain a vast array of skill sets, many managers are now ensuring their staff have every option to ensure the safety of their mental health. Construction workers are coming together to overcome isolation and ensure a workforce community is in place that can help tackle any issues surrounding mental health, the construction industry are stepping up and ensuring suffering in silence is not an option in the sector.
Aramark wants to remind people about the importance of minding their mental wellbeing through the TAKE15 campaign, part of World Mental Health Day. “When I played rugby for Munster and Ireland it was obvious to me how important physical activity is for your mental health. It’s good that we are now being more open about our mental health but, there is still a long way to go. That’s why I’m delighted to be part of Aramark’s Health and Wellness month again this year and I hope that everyone will join in the #TAKE15 campaign,” said Alan Quinlan, Aramark’s Health and Wellness Ambassador. In the workplace, one in six people will experience mental health issues and TAKE15 is Aramark’s annual month-long campaign that aims to address this by encouraging both employers and employees across the UK and Ireland to take short breaks during their working day. “Aramark are encouraging all their clients and customers to take part in their TAKE15 campaign. The goal is to take time out to reconnect with people and look after your own mental health. We are dedicated to helping our teams and customers to make positive changes to their lifestyle so that they improve their wellbeing,” said Frank Gleeson, President Aramark Northern Europe. “Our mission is to enrich and nourish lives and we understand that a healthy workforce is a happier and more productive workforce. When employees take breaks at work, they become less fatigued and have more energy. Short breaks also increase our ability to focus and problem solve, reducing stress levels so it makes sense for everyone to Take 15 minutes to relax and clear their head during the day. We’re thrilled with the level of support from our clients for Take15 – our annual campaign has been growing every year as health and wellbeing becomes embedded in the workplace,” Frank added. Aramark Northern Europe employs over 18,000 people directly and provides food services to hundreds of workplaces across Northern Europe. The company is encouraging employees, clients and customers to take part in a month long TAKE15 campaign. The goal is to get people to take time out away from computers, phones and emails, and to reconnect with their colleagues.
An MSP will be raising a further motion addressing the ongoing campaign to confer statutory recognition on Scotland’s professional electricians in the Scottish Parliament later this month. The move, by Jamie Halcro Johnston, Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP for the Highlands and Islands, is the latest in a determined campaign by representatives of both employers and employees to secure official, legal recognition of qualified and competent electricians in the interests of public safety. Pat Rafferty, Scotland Regional Secretary of Unite the Union has expressed its full support for the long-running campaign for recognition of the skills, knowledge, training, experience and qualifications of electricians and the vital role they play in the functioning of modern society: “Unite has already contributed to the establishment of the Electricians Working Group which was convened at Holyrood following a concerted awareness-raising push by electrical employers’ association SELECT, the Scottish Joint Industry Board and the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust, together with Unite.” “The Government’s own statistics disclose that 69% of all accidental fires in Scottish homes are caused by electricity and it is clear that work carried out by unqualified operators poses a distinct threat to community safety. This motion is a crucial next step in our campaign for recognition and we are optimistic that it will be carried,” Pat added. Due to be debated in parliament on Thursday, the 25th of October, Mr Halcro Johnston’s motion will ask Holyrood to note the calls supporting the principle of the regulation of electricians and will point out also that, while more than 100 regulated professions exist in the UK –– there is no protection afforded to electricians. Moreover, it will again ask Parliament to appreciate that improperly-installed electrical work creates a significant risk of fire as well as other harm to householders and that the installation of electrical work by unqualified or only partly qualified individuals carries a safety risk. Finally, it will ask for acknowledgement of calls for the Scottish Government to consider how the Parliament’s powers over protection of title can be utilised to reassure the public of the safety of electrical work in domestic and non-domestic premises. “Recognition of the vital role that trained and qualified electricians play in safeguarding all parts of Scottish society is long overdue. These are highly-trained, competent and qualified professional people whose contribution to Scotland’s economy and modern life is immense,” concluded Fiona Harper, The Secretary of the Scottish Joint Industry Training Board.
Good news for the construction industry of Britain, as construction output has increased by 1.5% in the last three months. This statistic is lead by a 15% growth in construction throughout the North West, which official data has shown is at least 10 times the national average for growth rate. New housing in the North West has been of incredible value to the construction industry as a whole over the country, with the value increasing by £368 million in this quarter compared the the same quarter last year (2017). According to the Office of National Statistics (ONS), the output of new infrastructure has also seen significant growth, which puts Britain’s construction industry in a steady position before the new year and before Brexit becomes reality. The North West has become a hustle and bustle of new housing developments, but even though this comes as welcomed news, it is believed there is still more to be done. Although encouraging, a wider range of residential property needs to be explored, as the vast majority of North West builds are being marketed to suit the first time buyer. Regardless, this is still very positive with huge benefits being spread across the North West and beyond, the fact new buyers are being targeted more than any other buyer is due to the Help To Buy scheme taking place. The government run scheme was launched five years ago and is available until 2020, although aimed at any home buyer, not just first time buyers, the Help To Buy scheme is only accessible on purchasing a new build property. A buyer is required to raise 5% of the properties value as deposit, which is much less than the previous 10%+ which first time buyers often struggled to provide. Since the launch of the Help To Buy scheme, first time buyers have gone from accounting for 37% of mortgages to 51%. Given there is less than two years left of the scheme definitively being in motion, the British government are eager to get things moving in terms of new construction developments in the residential sector. This is not just for the first time buyer, more bungalows have been proposed to help the elderly move from larger housing and family homes are being thought of for those who need to up-size their property. It is widely thought that fewer homes than are needed are being constructed as more and more people are wanting to get their foot on the property ladder. However, the statistics come as welcomed news that the construction industry is heading in the right direction for a successful future in terms of new residential builds.
Shelbourne Motors has appointed local building contractor O’Hare & McGovern to build its new £5m multi-franchise facility in Newry as Renault signs-up to the showpiece development. The Newry based Chartered building company has commenced work on the 50,000 sq ft development that will create 60 new jobs when it’s scheduled to open in summer 2019. The new state-of-the-art facility, designed by Clarman Architects, is a significant investment by the family-owned vehicle retailer in the Newry area as it celebrates its 45th Anniversary. It will include new car showrooms, new car handover bays, lounge-style waiting area with café and a drive-thru service centre with a 28-bay service workshop. The Renault partnership will see Shelbourne Motors become the dedicated dealer of new and used Renault vehicles in the Newry and Mourne area. Kia was the first manufacturer to be confirmed for the site. Caroline Willis, Financial Director of Shelbourne Motors, said; “This is a significant milestone for Shelbourne Motors. We are delighted to partner with one of Northern Ireland’s leading Contractors to carry out the building works on our largest ever single investment.” “We implemented a rigorous procurement process to appoint the best contractor to deliver our vision. O’Hare & McGovern have demonstrated the skills, experience and resources to match our ambitions to build a state-of-the-art facility that reflects the strength and growth of our brand. “It will create 60 new jobs for the Newry area, as well as offer an environment that’s modern and spacious with a host of technologically-advanced features that will provide local customers with an unrivalled sales and after-care experience. “Our long-term relationship with Renault made the manufacturer an obvious fit for this new development and it demonstrates their confidence in our business to incorporate a brand-new dealership into our Newry expansion.” Martin Lennon, Managing Director of O’Hare & McGovern said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won the contract to build this new state-of-the-art showpiece facility. It strengthens our relationships with Shelbourne Motors which stretches back more than 40 years, and it is also a huge economic boost for the city, and the wider Newry area. “The Ward family are to be commended for committing to such an investment. The benefits will be enormous, especially with the provision of so many new jobs.” Shelbourne Motors was founded by the Ward Family in 1973. It currently employs over 130 staff at its 9-acre Portadown headquarters, where it operates Toyota, Renault, Nissan and Dacia franchises, as well as a Used Car Supermarket, Accident Repair Centre and Valet Centre.