Local councillors recommended to approve Burnley’s Town Centre and Canalside Masterplan at the end of the month. The masterplan sets out proposals on how the town centre and canalside areas could look in the future. The key proposals include: A major new leisure development called “Pioneer Place”, which includes the
Protecting.co.uk, a health & safety and employment law expert, has undertaken a survey that shows a staggering 76% of tradespeople admit to doing at least one ‘Friday job’ which they are ‘ashamed of’. From slapdash plastering to lackadaisical joinery, it seems that the British public are suffering when it comes
The proposed £112.1 million phase two of the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme is due to be completed with the help of a two-step solution. Phase one of the scheme is already in place, offering protection for the city centre and Woodlesford. Meanwhile, phase two offers a range of complementary measures
Wates Residential is to deliver a new £27 million housing development at Shuttleworth Road in Wandsworth. The project includes 71 affordable new homes in the borough, supporting Wandsworth Council’s target to build 1,000 homes for local residents. At the ground breaking ceremony Paul Nicholls, Managing Director of Wates Residential, said:
Fashion trends change every year and yet the redesign of a kitchen can be expected to last 10 years or more. So how do you design a kitchen that will not only feel fresh and modern today, but also remain functional throughout the entire life of the design. What is
Forticrete has been granted three UK patents for its innovative SL8® large format roof tile. The leading manufacturer of concrete roof tiles, architectural masonry and walling and cast stone, which is part of Ibstock plc, has been granted patents which cover the camber of the tile, interlocking design and features and
SELECT, the campaigning body for Scotland’s electrical sector professionals, has joined with other organisations across the country to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group. Since its inception in 1993, SEC Group has provided a strong lobbying voice to support the specialist engineering sector especially in
TODD Architects worked with the multinational property firm Savills to transform their new 5,500 sq ft headquarters at Longbridge House in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, realizing a distinctive, spatially-efficient, and flexible workspace fit-out. Following extensive research and analysis of the Savills’ work culture and social ergonomics, TODD’s design developed to enhance
Going back to work after taking time off, for whatever reason, can often be daunting. Making the transition to your old professional self, which has been on hold for so long, can make anyone feel like an impostor. If you’re in a situation where you have to find a job
Local councillors recommended to approve Burnley’s Town Centre and Canalside Masterplan at the end of the month. The masterplan sets out proposals on how the town centre and canalside areas could look in the future. The key proposals include: A major new leisure development called “Pioneer Place”, which includes the relocation of Reel cinema to a new multi-screen complex at Curzon Street. The new site will also include new food, beverage and retail units. It would include a new public square and improved pedestrian access. The development would include a 125-space car park. Continued improvement to Charter Walk shopping centre, including new frontages for the shops facing Market Square and the relocation of the market hall access stair. The development of a university campus site, including new student accommodation around Sandygate Square. A longer-term option is to develop the George Street Mill site, which is between the town centre and Sandygate. Largely derelict at present, the area could become a future university campus site, including additional teaching buildings for UCLan, with more student accommodation, or it could be developed for residential use, building on the success of Bridgewalk Apartments. “We’re grateful to everyone who fed back their views during the consultation. The overall response was generally supportive of our vision for the future of Burnley. This masterplan sets out how the town centre and surrounding areas could be developed to establish Burnley as a university town with a thriving and vibrant shopping centre and an historic heart that successfully mixes industrial heritage with future aspirations,” said Asif Raja, Executive Member for Economy and Growth. “The council’s job is to bring together investment from the council, the wider public sector, and business, so we can deliver aspects of the masterplan. This isn’t going to happen overnight, but we make no excuses for putting forward an ambitious and aspirational vision that will deliver a brighter future for Burnley,” he concluded. The plan is projected to bring an estimated £100 million boost and up to 1,000 new jobs to the borough.
Protecting.co.uk, a health & safety and employment law expert, has undertaken a survey that shows a staggering 76% of tradespeople admit to doing at least one ‘Friday job’ which they are ‘ashamed of’. From slapdash plastering to lackadaisical joinery, it seems that the British public are suffering when it comes to pre-weekend work. The study, which surveyed 500 workers across various trades, showed that a majority of tradespeople – like workers in many other professions – lose concentration as the end of the week edges closer. However, many of them were seemingly very relaxed about this dip in productivity, despite the potentially expensive consequences for their customers. One worker, who asked not to be named, confessed: “It was Friday afternoon – I knew that light switch was upside down, and shame on me, but it was time to go to the pub.” Another, who confessed to rushing interior decorating jobs in the run-up to the weekend, said: “It’s almost traditional now – Friday afternoon jobs get done quickly so you can have an early finish for the weekend. Everybody does it!” JR a web designer from Leeds said: “I should have spent more time making that website perfect so google could find it, but it still works.” Sam, a decorator from London, also said: “I didn’t use masking tape and lets just say I hope that customer is blind as those lines are not straight.” “Not only do these ‘Friday jobs’ tend to result in problems which can cost consumers dearly further down the line, they also open up a can of worms when it comes to health and safety. If the correct precautions aren’t taken due to workers being preoccupied, trade businesses could be liable for much more than just complaints and money spent fixing botched jobs,” said Chris Hall, spokesperson for Protecting.co.uk. “Failing to follow correct protocol such as protective clothing regulations or correctly storing hazardous substances on-site because workers are eager to get the job finished could have very grave consequences. It is up to businesses to ensure their employees are correctly trained and aware of the requirements for their role – and, of course, to protect themselves against complaints or expensive remedial work for customers,” he added. There are steps businesses can take to reduce dangerous errors as a result of ‘Friday jobs’, Hall noted. Properly assessing health and safety requirements for each job and then training employees accordingly will increase overall caution taken, but he added that it was also key to tackle the causes of the drop in productivity.
The proposed £112.1 million phase two of the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme is due to be completed with the help of a two-step solution. Phase one of the scheme is already in place, offering protection for the city centre and Woodlesford. Meanwhile, phase two offers a range of complementary measures to protect the Kirkstall Corridor which was badly hit by Storm Eva in 2015. It includes further measures up to and including the upper catchment of the River Aire. The government confirmed its contribution figure of £65 million, with Leeds City Council planning to proceed with a planning application and tenders to be presented shortly to deliver the scheme in full. It will be carried out in two parts, and will get underway shortly. Works to deliver an initial one-in-100-year level of protection will begin next year, which will then be upgraded to the full one-in-200-year level with a further phase of work after the remainder of the funding has been secured. “The Environment Agency wants to deliver the best possible flood scheme for Leeds and is working closely with Leeds City Council to make the most effective use of the funding available to us whilst exploring further options. We worked closely with the council on the first phase of the city’s Flood Alleviation Scheme, which cost £50 million and protects 3,000 homes, 500 business and 300 acres of development land,” commented Adrian Gill, flood risk manager at the Environment Agency. “Our officers have been working hard within the joint team alongside colleagues from Leeds City Council since Boxing Day 2015 and we support the two-step solution outlined by Councillor Blake. This will enable the level of protection provided to the city centre to be extended at pace to the Kirkstall Road area, whilst we continue to strive towards our ambition of providing a 1-in-200-year level of protection from the River Aire for the whole city,” Adrian concluded.
Wates Residential is to deliver a new £27 million housing development at Shuttleworth Road in Wandsworth. The project includes 71 affordable new homes in the borough, supporting Wandsworth Council’s target to build 1,000 homes for local residents. At the ground breaking ceremony Paul Nicholls, Managing Director of Wates Residential, said: “Today’s ground breaking event marks an exciting milestone in our delivery of much-needed affordable new homes for local people at Shuttleworth Road. It follows months of collaboration with the Council, members of the community and other local stakeholders to really understand their vision for the area and how we can realise this, both through the design and construction of these homes and looking at ways we can create wider local economic and social value. We look forward to strengthening these relationships as we continue to progress on site.” Wates has been undertaking preparatory works on the site since May 2018. This latest development marks the official beginning of the site’s main construction phase, with completion of the scheme due in the Summer of 2020. “This is another demonstration of our commitment to build 1,000 new homes on our larger development sites, which will help people in the borough buy or rent a home that is right for them. We’re delighted to partner with Wates Residential on this scheme and look forward to strengthening our relationship with them to provide quality housing for local people,” added Wandsworth Council Leader, Ravi Govindia. All social housing that is demolished as part of the regeneration will also be replaced with affordable homes. The completion of these new homes will directly support the borough’s wider Winstanley and York Road Estates regeneration programme by providing affordable homes for those needing to move.
Fashion trends change every year and yet the redesign of a kitchen can be expected to last 10 years or more. So how do you design a kitchen that will not only feel fresh and modern today, but also remain functional throughout the entire life of the design. What is making all the difference in current design is the useful of new technology and clever solutions to ensure that function does not have to be sacrificed for fashion. In addition, greater focus is being given to smaller kitchens for modern apartment and city living which have very different needs compared to the huge american kitchens so often used to showcase modern kitchen design. Space is at a premium, and small kitchens are expected to work hard than ever in the home. Here are some of the ways in which 2019 trends are being influenced by smarter solutions and use of space. Clever space solutions more important than ever The kitchen is the heart of the home. Often the most used room in the house, not only for spending time with family but highly functional in the preparation of food. This is why it is so important for the flow of movement through the kitchen to be clear of obstacles and have a natural order to things. We have all known for many years the optimal triangle for placement of the sink, fridge and oven or hob, yet you also need to ensure you can work easily between the three without getting obstructed by an open cabinet door. You also need to make sure you can easily reach your appliances and other kitchen utensils and crockery. Depending on the layout of your kitchen, switching how the cupboards open can make all the difference, especially in the corners. By switching the corner cabinet hinges to a style that not only swings out , but fold back on themselves, you can save a surprising amount of room, but also reduce obstruction to the contents. Perfect for busy kitchens when you are constantly in and out of cupboards, and perfect for any corner or L-shaped unit. Access all areas, no more continuously rearranging cabinets The other issue with space, is actually being able to access all the internal cupboard space. How often have much loved appliances remained unused at the back of a dark cupboard because it is a lot of trouble to reach it. Or worse – every time we want to use the blender the entire cupboard contents have to come out. With the right kitchen corner cabinet solutions now available, this no longer needs to be the case. The new innovations are going to be big in design this year, in addition they are also quick to assemble and practical. Solutions such as the ‘Rincoplus40’ for example has a moveable corner post that opens the corner unit up wide. Alternatively there is also the ‘Rincobasic40’ design which also gives 100% access, but opens from the centre outwards, like you would see on a typical double wall cabinet, but designed to fit neatly into a corner unit. Minimal hardware with sleek lines and finishes Another big trend for 2019 is a big reduction in visible hardware such as traditional handles. Sleek lines and clean finishes will be big in the coming year and there is no better way to show this than through the use of clever profile handles. Profile handles are key in any modern minimalist design. Integrating neatly into the front of a kitchen cabinet or drawer, aesthetically it can appear as if there are no handles at all. Elegant and revolutionary in their design and installation using the innovative click system, the various Syma S32, Syma 50 Customizable, Syma 32 Inglete, Syma 2 Inglete, models will be big this coming year. Available in all the finishes set to be big in kitchen design, such as the darker colours and matt finishes tips to be hot next year also they are perfect for kitchen designs. These small innovative touches are what makes a kitchen stand the test of time, and these types of features will be considered a must have in kitchen cabinet solutions in the future.
Forticrete has been granted three UK patents for its innovative SL8® large format roof tile. The leading manufacturer of concrete roof tiles, architectural masonry and walling and cast stone, which is part of Ibstock plc, has been granted patents which cover the camber of the tile, interlocking design and features and dry verge design. Specifically, the patent for its dry verge design includes the term concealed guttering as the tile channels water to the gutter. The SL8 roof tile was designed to meet the increasing demands of the roofing market. With just 8 tiles per square metre needed it provides greater coverage with approximately 20% less tiles required per roof. Additional benefits include its thin leading edge – which is up to 50% thinner than other large format tiles – which creates an impressive visual characteristic. John Lambert, Managing Director of Forticrete, comments: “Forticrete has a long history of introducing innovative products which offer building efficiencies. Our SL8 roof tile is one of these and we are delighted to have achieved these design patents. In designing the SL8 tile, we listened to what our customers wanted; the result is an innovative roof tile that meets market demands. It reduces the number of tiles needed for a roof by up to 20%, meaning it is more cost efficient and tiles are easier to handle and lay. The aesthetics of SL8 are also much more appealing as its thin leading edge and dimensions go a long way to replicate real slate. “Being awarded three UK patents means we have 20 years protection on our design and our customers can be assured they are using market leading products for the construction projects.” Forticrete is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of concrete construction products including roof tiles, concrete decorative facing blocks, walling stone and cast stone dressings. For more information visit www.forticrete.co.uk.
SELECT, the campaigning body for Scotland’s electrical sector professionals, has joined with other organisations across the country to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group. Since its inception in 1993, SEC Group has provided a strong lobbying voice to support the specialist engineering sector especially in the vital areas of contractual issues. In value terms, members of the SECG represent the largest sector of UK construction, comprising the industry’s premier trade associations. In exclusively working on behalf of specialist contractors, it has not only improved the trading environment but it has also become a driver for real l change and a strong proponent of a more collaborative and project-oriented culture. Alan Wilson, Acting Managing Director at SELECT, said: “Electrical contractors were among the first to agree, that specialist engineering required its own representational body and SELECT has been proud to be a part of SEC Group over the years. “SEC Group aims to influence at the highest levels of government and it continues to do that by offering well-researched, sensible, pragmatic solutions which are of significant benefit to both businesses and their clients.” SEC Group now includes; the British Constructional Steelwork Association; the Building Engineering Services Association; ECA, the electrotechnical and engineering services trade body; the Lift and Escalator Industry Association; the Scaffolding Association; SELECT, the Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland; and SNIPEF, the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation. Lord O’Neill of Clackmannan, the President of SEC Group, said: “Specialist engineering contractors across the UK deliver design, installation, commissioning, maintenance, repair and replacement of complex structures and systems. “Over 25 years, the group has worked tirelessly to inculcate a greater awareness amongst policy makers of the specialist engineering contribution to the life cycle of buildings and structures. In terms of the technologies involved that contribution is huge and will continue to grow.” Jamie Hepburn, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills in the Scottish Parliament, said: “Over the years, SEC Group has grown significantly and the businesses it represents now account for 35% of the construction output across the UK. “In particular, I welcome the commitment SEC Group members have made to promoting and providing career and training opportunities for our young people through the protection and expansion of the apprenticeship programme.” SELECT’s 1250 member companies account for around 90% of all electrical installation work carried out in Scotland. They have a collective turnover of around £1 billion and provide employment for 15,000 people. For more information please contact Alan Wilson, Acting Managing Director at SELECT, the Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland, The Walled Garden, Bush Estate, Midlothian, EH26 0SB. T: 0131 445 5577. F: 0131 445 5548. E: admin@select.org.uk. W: www.select.org.uk Twitter: http://twitter.com/updates_select https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWJVjt14CvIig8bIKwidVug
TODD Architects worked with the multinational property firm Savills to transform their new 5,500 sq ft headquarters at Longbridge House in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, realizing a distinctive, spatially-efficient, and flexible workspace fit-out. Following extensive research and analysis of the Savills’ work culture and social ergonomics, TODD’s design developed to enhance work patterns, optimising the layout and workflow and evaluating shared space ratios, personal space and social interaction. The concept prioritizes spaces for collaboration, functionality and flexibility while also allowing for future expansion. The new office facilities provide a positive, healthy working environment, promoting the welling of staff with operational workspaces benefitting from natural light whilst ventilation units deliver excellent air quality and thermal comfort, significant for employee satisfaction and productivity. Workspaces are generous, following BCO fit out guidelines, and a variety of different spaces have been included to facilitate different ways of working. High work / sit-stand tables provide for flexibility and offer staff an alternative to sitting at their desks all day, whilst the large high tables with feature pendant lighting allow for agile and cooperative working. As teamwork is essential to Savills’ ethos, an open plan layout was chosen to encourage communication across the entire workforce. Control of noise was a key design requirement and internal sound levels were regulated with the introduction of louvred felt ceilings and floating mineral fibre panels, in combination with the installation of desk dividers and wall panels. The state-of-the-art workspace is divided into two zones to provide separate but interlinked client and staff areas. The client zone begins on arrival, with a bright welcoming foyer with glazed screens and feature LED lighting. Large format porcelain tiles were selected for the main reception flooring and feature wall. The scale and texture of these large format ceramic floor tiles compliment the sculptural form of the bespoke white acrylic reception desk. Meeting rooms were strategically located to benefit from natural daylight and to offer private space for collaborative team sessions or client meetings. Informal break out areas with high specification sofas have been positioned to encourage informal discussions. A four-person meeting space has been located next to the main reception to offer dual usage for either staff or client meetings, being accessible from both sides. The central staff breakout area and kitchenette is complete with state-of-the-art appliances, zip taps, a variety of furniture types and a feature light box. The space offers engagement and social interaction, designed to facilitate both formal and informal events, including corporate parties and townhall meetings, with its direct link to the informal meeting area. Key within the client brief was the provision of audio-visual technology in the reception, meeting rooms and breakout spaces plus acoustic divisions between client and staff spaces that remained physically interlinked. This acoustic separation is achieved through the introduction of full height double-glazed screens and doors, with high quality acoustic screens, felt ceilings, and a wood-wool slab acoustic feature wall. The design team mixed dashes of Savills’ own-brand yellow with a muted palette of soft pastels for an energizing scheme aimed at boosting creativity, productivity and positivity. The design team also drew inspiration from the locality by incorporating carpet tiles with a cobbled design which reflects the streetscape of the adjacent Hill Street. Peter Moran, Director at TODD Architects, “Throughout the fit-out, TODD Architects had a strong working relationship with the client and consultants and this helped to achieve optimum results tailored to the workforce’s needs. High-quality interior finishes are integral to the success of this work environment, designed for durability and adaptability.” Ben Turtle, Head of the Savills Belfast office, said: “The office move is a milestone for Savills in Belfast. Our business has evolved greatly over the past 13 years and the new space effectively positions us for a further period of growth and expansion.”
Going back to work after taking time off, for whatever reason, can often be daunting. Making the transition to your old professional self, which has been on hold for so long, can make anyone feel like an impostor. If you’re in a situation where you have to find a job first, then it’s even more difficult as the inevitable worry of how to explain the long break surfaces. Whatever the circumstances surrounding your absence from work, there are some steps you can take to make the transition easier. Below we have created some helpful points to consider before returning to work. Reconnect with Your Professional Self Working, even part time, usually comes with a routine but taking a break from this can mean slipping into late nights and even later wake up times. Start by building up a routine again, rising at the same time every day and getting dressed in comfortable but smart clothing. If you need to find a job then treat this as your main activity, dedicate morning hours, broken up with a lunch hour, before completing the search in the afternoon. Update you CV and take a look at your LinkedIn profile, ensuring that it’s looking good. Reconnecting with some former colleagues is also a good idea whether you’re searching for employment or getting ready to make a return to work. You’ll ease yourself, get some helpful information and open yourself up to professional opportunities. Manage Expectations Once you’re back at work, it’s important to manage your manager’s and your own expectation regarding how fast you’ll be able to catch up. Ask for a meeting with your manager and have an honest conversation about what you need to get back into the swing of things. Doing so will ease a lot of the anxiety surrounding being at work and feeling out of the loop. Perhaps it may be useful for you to shadow a colleague, spending a week taking notes and acclimatising to the office. Don’t be afraid to be honest (though always professional), it will demonstrate good judgement and your ability to prioritise, coupled with a willingness to be a great employee. Be Prepared to Explain Your Career Break People are naturally curious; whether you’re returning to your previous office or joining a new one, be prepared to get a lot of questions about your break and previous jobs. You don’t have to disclose anything you’re not comfortable with – take a few moments to think of what you might reply with, so you’re not caught out without anything to say. It can even be a polite ‘I hope you’ll understand but I don’t feel comfortable discussing this’ alongside a smile and people will leave you alone. Otherwise, keep your answers brief to start until you establish more of a connection with your colleagues. It’s natural to feel anxious about returning to work following a career break. Remember, there are multiple resources out there available to help you make the transition. One great place to visit if Randstad’s Returning to Work hub, featuring stories and advice from people who have done it before.
