An appointment has been made by Wates Construction, who named David Wingfield as the new Business Unit Director for the North East and Yorkshire region. He will take over the role from Paul Dodsworth, who is stepping up to the role of Managing Director of Wates Construction North. “I joined Wates
A former post office building in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter will be redeveloped into a new state-of-the-art apartment complex. The Lionel House build-to-rent (BTR) scheme will comprise 156 one-bedroom, 90 two-bedroom and 13 three-bedroom apartments. Moreover, the 14-storey building will also include landscaped roof terraces, ground floor communal areas for residents, a
A purpose-built timber salt farm in Croydon has been delivered by GRAHAM to support the council’s highways maintenance duties during the winter weather. The firm’s Facilities Management Team redeveloped an ageing asbestos barn at Factory Lane into the new facility over a 10-week programme. “The project was completed within the
Concrete brings both practicality and beauty to any garden, if used in the right way. While it’s primarily known for being a high-strength material that does the ‘grunt work’ of a garden, concrete can also be used in the creation of stunning statement pieces. In this article, we explore five
More than fifty students from Carshalton College and Merton College have taken up industry placements with national contractor United Living, to help build 68 new homes for the ex-service community. Since November last year, the construction site at Rhodes Moorhouse Court in Morden has had support from Level 2 and
Interserve has reached a rescue deal with its creditors to prevent its collapse, according to a statement issued by the group. Following its 21 December 2018 announcement, the board has provided further details on its deleveraging plan. The key commercial terms of the deleveraging plan have been agreed in principle
As temperatures plummet to the lowest we’ve seen in the UK for seven years, any responsible employer should ensure that their outdoor workers are well protected from the elements. By conducting comprehensive thermal risk assessments, you can determine if you have the necessary processes, equipment and protective clothing in place
An appointment has been made by Wates Construction, who named David Wingfield as the new Business Unit Director for the North East and Yorkshire region. He will take over the role from Paul Dodsworth, who is stepping up to the role of Managing Director of Wates Construction North. “I joined Wates as Business Unit Director for the North East and Yorkshire in 2015 and David has been a fundamental part of the business’ success throughout my tenure. I am a very big believer in nurturing the talent within our team and David’s commitment to Wates, along with his extensive knowledge of our business, our culture and the markets within which we work, places him as a perfect successor,” said Paul Dodsworth. “2019 is already shaping up to be a very exciting year for Wates, which kickstarted with our move to new premises at Paradigm, Thorpe Park. I very much look forward to seeing David take this region forward as we continue to deliver exceptional work across our current and prospective project portfolio,” Paul continued. In his new role, David will lead the delivery of Wates’ project portfolio within the private and public sectors as the business grows its presence in its core markets of commercial, residential, education and leisure development. His appointment sees him promoted from his position of Regional Commercial Director at Wates, which he held for nine years. “I am extremely proud to have played a part in Wates’ increasingly impressive reputation in the North East and Yorkshire for almost 15 years and to be charged with the leadership of this great business is a privilege. My previous remit with Wates has been focused on ensuring we deliver sustainable business growth, which in-turn has enabled us to lead the way in terms of investment in training and employment. My intention is to continue to build on this success while ensuring we maintain exceptional levels of quality for our clients, seek out new areas of innovation and sustain our impeccable standards in health and safety,” David added.
A former post office building in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter will be redeveloped into a new state-of-the-art apartment complex. The Lionel House build-to-rent (BTR) scheme will comprise 156 one-bedroom, 90 two-bedroom and 13 three-bedroom apartments. Moreover, the 14-storey building will also include landscaped roof terraces, ground floor communal areas for residents, a 17-space car park and cycle storage for every apartment. Construction work will begin on the site in June 2019, with plans to have the development ready for occupation by summer 2021. “Another contract win in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter brings our total current multi-room projects to eight, and we always feel fortunate to work with new clients who have recognised our enthusiasm and expertise. We are looking forward to commencing this 14-storey, 259 apartment scheme later in the year,” said Mark Jones, Winvic Construction’s Director of Multi-room, the company that landed the contract. The project is being delivered on behalf of Lionel House Developments Ltd and Aberdeen Standard Investments (ASI). “The location, on the edge of both the vibrant Jewellery Quarter and the central business areas, make this a fantastic location for build-to-rent. We’re enthused about the deal, as it represents ASI’s first UK investment for its pan-European ASPER fund, but also because we’re working with Stamford Property Developments and Winvic, two experienced and well respected companies in the sector,” added ASI’s Ed Crockett.
A purpose-built timber salt farm in Croydon has been delivered by GRAHAM to support the council’s highways maintenance duties during the winter weather. The firm’s Facilities Management Team redeveloped an ageing asbestos barn at Factory Lane into the new facility over a 10-week programme. “The project was completed within the designated time and to exceptionally high standards. We would like to say that GRAHAM were extremely organised, kept all the deadlines, maintained high standards and followed all of the Council’s policies and protocols. They provided regular updates and demonstrations of their work,” said Croydon Council’s Project Manager for Facilities Management, Kaushai Tripathi. Completed as part of GRAHAM’s ‘Hard FM building fabric planned and reactive maintenance works, and multi-trade planned works, contract with Croydon Council, the £450,000 scheme has a service life of over 30 years. This ensures the long-term storage of salt in prime condition for use around the borough’s road network. “We have enjoyed a long-term relationship with Croydon Council since May 2016. The new salt barn is yet another example of the important work that we consistently undertake in support of the Council’s operations. As the snowy and icy conditions continue to present challenges to motorists and pedestrians, this salt barn guarantees the integrity of the salt that is spread across the borough’s roads network. It is therefore a core piece of infrastructure and we are proud to have delivered it to the very highest standards,” commented GRAHAM’s Operations Director, Gareth Smyth.
Concrete brings both practicality and beauty to any garden, if used in the right way. While it’s primarily known for being a high-strength material that does the ‘grunt work’ of a garden, concrete can also be used in the creation of stunning statement pieces. In this article, we explore five uses of concrete in the garden – ranging from the expected to the unconventional. 1. Quirky furniture & features Concrete is commonly associated with practical purposes, but did you ever consider that it could be used to craft an elegant water feature, a decorative candle holder, or even an al fresco table and chairs? If you’re DIY savvy, you may want to have a go at being creative and making your very own pieces to suit your space. Concrete moulds are available online, helping homeowners across the country transform their spaces. The choices are endless – bird baths, benches, dining tables, clocks, wood burners, and more. Just get on Google and see what ideas are out there. 2. Sculpture Perhaps your garden could benefit from an artistic touch? One increasingly popular idea is to use imprinted stencils to create statement pieces or paving stones, such as leaf and flower designs or shaped stones. Whether left bare or painted, these can bring a decorative touch to any garden and become a talking point for visitors. Why not try crafting concrete globes using an inflated balloon? Simply put the wet concrete mix around as much of the balloon as you wish (leaving a gap can transform them from globes into planters), wait for it to set, and then pop the balloon. 3. Footpaths, paving & stepping stones The sturdy, durable nature of concrete makes it ideal for surfaces experiencing high foot and vehicle traffic. As concrete can be shaped easily in its liquid state, you can experiment with a range of different footpath, paving or stepping stone styles . You can keep it simple with evenly-sized stones, or create a mismatched, tumbledown look for a more quirky feel. Stepping stones don’t have to be plain, though; why not adorn yours with decorative jewels or stencilled patterns? 4. Driveways & parking spaces High-strength and robust, concrete is the ideal material to withstand your vehicle’s comings and goings. You may be tempted to opt for a gravel driveway, but the strength would not be at the same level – plus, gravel scatters easily. Concrete therefore has an edge when it comes to durability and longevity. 5. Raised beds & planters Concrete can play a big part in greening up your garden. Combining the urban character of concrete with the natural look of plants makes for a memorable contrast that adds a stylish touch to any garden. Planters and raised beds can be easily constructed from concrete, but the design and layout is totally up to you. Get your project off the ground and contact your reliable local concrete supplier.
More than fifty students from Carshalton College and Merton College have taken up industry placements with national contractor United Living, to help build 68 new homes for the ex-service community. Since November last year, the construction site at Rhodes Moorhouse Court in Morden has had support from Level 2 and Level 3 students who are learning construction skills at the College’s Merton Campus. They have taken up placements across a range of disciplines including plumbing, carpentry, electrical, drylining, bricklaying and plastering. The placements are being delivered and managed by United Living in partnership with Haig Housing Trust. Level 1 students based at South Thames College have also participated in site visits to the housing development and will attend an on-site presentation about opportunities in the construction industry. Farhan Mohamed, senior site manager at United Living, said: “It’s an absolute pleasure to provide these young people with the support and encouragement to learn new skills and pursue a career in construction. Our team of professionals are enjoying sharing their own knowledge and experience, which will hopefully play a part in encouraging this next generation into the sector and ensure the construction industry continues to flourish and grow.” Brigadier James Richardson, chief executive of Haig Housing Trust, said: “We’re delighted that this major development project on our Morden estate not only delivers 68 much needed new homes for Veterans and their families but has also benefited students from our neighbouring College. Aside from the skills they gain it also reflects the importance of the Armed Forces Covenant in bringing Veterans and local communities closer together.” Bryan Smyth, who is studying for a Level 3 diploma in electrical installation, said: “I’ve had a fantastic time here, working with the team at United Living to gain some experience and understand what it’s actually like to work on a construction site. I’ve gained a lot of new skills and I want to thank them for this opportunity.” Nathan Williams, who is studying bricklaying, said “My experiences working on this site were amazing. Everyone was friendly and welcoming and I’ve genuinely learnt loads of new skills. I hope to come back to help with the completion of the project.”
Interserve has reached a rescue deal with its creditors to prevent its collapse, according to a statement issued by the group. Following its 21 December 2018 announcement, the board has provided further details on its deleveraging plan. The key commercial terms of the deleveraging plan have been agreed in principle with all of Interserve’s lenders, bonding providers and the Pension Trustee. The board believes the deleveraging plan will provide Interserve with “a strong balance sheet and the platform to deliver on its strategy”. Debbie White, CEO of Interserve, said: “Agreeing the key commercial terms of the deleveraging plan with our lenders, bonding providers and Pension Trustee is a significant step forward in our plans to strengthen the balance sheet. The board believes that this agreement will secure a strong future for Interserve. “This proposal has been achieved following a long period of intensive negotiation and has the support of our financial stakeholders and the government. Its successful implementation is critical to the Interserve Group’s future and all of its stakeholders. The deleveraging plan will, alongside our ‘Fit for Growth’ transformation programme, place us in a strong position to deliver our strategy, be competitive in the marketplace and provide a secure future for the Interserve Group’s employees, customers and suppliers.” The deleveraging plan is expected to result in Interserve Group’s “pro forma net debt reducing to circa £275 million achieved through issuing c.£480 million of new Interserve equity”. Interserve expects to launch the finalised deleveraging plan in the next few weeks. The deleveraging plan will be “subject to approval by Interserve’s shareholders”. The company’s statement added: “Whilst Interserve’s objective remains to implement a fully consensual transaction, Interserve is also actively preparing alternative plans to ensure the proposed transaction can be implemented in the event that shareholder approval is not forthcoming.”
As temperatures plummet to the lowest we’ve seen in the UK for seven years, any responsible employer should ensure that their outdoor workers are well protected from the elements. By conducting comprehensive thermal risk assessments, you can determine if you have the necessary processes, equipment and protective clothing in place to ensure your workforce remains motivated, productive, and above all, safe. What Are the Risks? The UK may not succumb to the harsh winters endured by many other countries, but temperatures certainly drop sufficiently low to lead to some unpleasant health conditions — the most common being hypothermia and frostbite. Even mild cases of hypothermia can lead to a worker becoming confused, disoriented and unsafe to work. Frostbite can cause exposed skin and the tissues beneath it to freeze — it is most commonly suffered in the fingers, toes, ears and nose. Both conditions may lead to more severe health complications. Additionally, icy surfaces and poor light increase the risk of slips and falls, which could put a worker out of action for some time. What Can I Do to Protect My Workers? First, it is important to assess the level of thermal comfort of your workers under existing work practices and procedures. Thermal comfort encompasses a range of environmental, work-related and personal factors, including the amount and type of clothing worn. A simple way to access the level of thermal comfort in your workplace is to use Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) thermal comfort checklist. If thermal comfort is lacking in your workplace, HSE recommends putting the following into place: Provide appropriate, high-quality protective workwear and PPE Provide mobile facilities for warming up Encourage drinking hot drinks and soup Allow more rest breaks so workers can warm up or change out of wet clothes Where possible, reschedule work for a warmer time of year Educate workers on recognising the early signs of cold stress What Workwear Should I Provide to Keep Workers Safe? One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your workers protected in cold weather is to provide them with clothing and PPE appropriate for their role. Provide sufficient clothing to enable your workers to dress according to the three-layer principle. This will allow individuals to adapt their clothing to suit the weather and the activities being undertaken. Base Layer Base layers and thermals provide a wicking layer that moves moisture away from the skin and helps to regulate body temperature. This is one of the most essential pieces of clothing, enabling employees to stay warm and dry. Consider providing leggings, long johns and thermal tops. Workers undertaking physical tasks are likely to build up a sweat, even in arctic temperatures. Without a base layer, clothing becomes wet and body temperature lowers, resulting in an uncomfortable and unproductive employee. Mid Layer This “insulation layer” will keep workers warm. Depending on job role, consider providing fleeces, softshells, bodywarmers, sweatshirts or hoodies. Outer Layer This protects against the elements, including wind, rain and snow. An outer layer should ideally be lightweight, waterproof and breathable. Consider your employees’ role to determine if a hard or soft shell is most suitable. For outdoor workers where safety is paramount, we would recommend high visibility clothing, including hi-vis jackets and trousers. In addition to providing garments at all three layer levels, you should also consider sourcing appropriate boots, hats and gloves. For outdoor work, safety footwear should be waterproof with slip-resistant soles and highly durable to withstand repeated use in winter conditions. Hats help retain heat, but ensure that these do not interfere with protective headwear — a thermal hard hat liner may be a better option if worn with a safety helmet. Standard PPE gloves may not be designed for colder weather. Ensure that your workers are equipped with thermal gloves that also comply with safety guidelines. It’s a good idea to refer to the safety standards, particularly those relating to high visibility and waterproof clothing. Safety boots with S3 HRO WR and SRC ratings would be suited to outdoor winter working, while gloves that have been tested to EN511:2006 are designed to withstand temperatures as low as -50°C. By investing the time and money in properly assessing the working conditions of your employees, putting safe practices in place and providing protective clothing, you will increase the motivation, safety and productivity of your workforce.
