A new student accommodation development is due to arrive in Leeds as construction work commences on the site after funding is provided. The Refinery scheme progressed after local developer Gregory Property Group announced forward funding from Curlew. “We are pleased to have secured funding for an immediate start on site.
Members of the construction industry benefit now from a newly launched app that offers practical advice on how to manage a range of protected species commonly encountered on construction sites. The Working with Wildlife app includes information on species like badgers, bats, birds, dormice, great crested newts, otters, reptiles and
A new tailored health and wellbeing programme will be incorporated by Caddick Construction, benefiting a total of 140 employees. The firm agreed a partnership with health and wellness provider – hero, which will deliver the programme. “Our employees are our greatest asset and we want to ensure they feel valued
The best-of-class in south-west Scotland’s construction sector are set to be honoured in the area’s first-ever awards focused on those actively excelling at upskilling their workforce. Contractors on projects for hub South West – the partnership dedicated to community infrastructure projects in Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway –
Having announced the appointment of two new Senior Stabilisation Managers at the back end of 2018, Mick George Ltd has further signalled its intent to grow their Stabilisation division with the six-figure acquisition of an impressive Wirtgen 250i ‘S Pack’. Having landed many high-profile contracts for its Stabilisation service in
Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson has completed the exterior shell and associated external groundworks of Grantham’s new Savoy Cinema, which will house a state-of-the-art, five-screen, 650-seat cinema as well as restaurant and office space. The first floor of the building will be used as teaching and lecturing space by the
Bi-fold doors are massively increasing in popularity. Their aesthetically pleasing design has seen them become a must have feature modern homes, and, as the days get longer and lighter, homeowners will no doubt begin to look to their next home improvement in the form of the installation of bi-fold doors.
RCM, Roofing and Cladding Materials Ltd, specialists in complete through wall solutions are once again increasing its sales team and announcing the appointment of two new team members. Tim Plumpton is the new Regional Sales Manager for the Midlands, West and South West, specialising in the RCM building board range,
Within the construction sector, working at height continues to be one of the greatest causes of death and major injury. When not following proper health and safety precautions, accidents are far too common, putting workers in danger, and the company responsible for them at risk of personal injury liability. Read
A new student accommodation development is due to arrive in Leeds as construction work commences on the site after funding is provided. The Refinery scheme progressed after local developer Gregory Property Group announced forward funding from Curlew. “We are pleased to have secured funding for an immediate start on site. The scheme’s design is impressive, delivering high quality accommodation for Leeds students in a prime location that connects student life to the vibrant city centre in a matter of minutes,” said Barry Gregory, Chairman of Gregory Property Group. The development is worth more than £30 million and it will include 407 beds comprising studios and bedroom clusters with terrace and garden features, along with share social hubs, a cinema, gym, games room, concierge and state-of-the-art 24-hour security. “Leeds remains a top ten university destination in the UK and with a growing student population of around 60,000 students the city needs more homes. We expect to complete the development in time for occupation from the September 2020 University term and Fresh Student Living will be managing that occupation on behalf of Curlew,” added Barry. The nine, 10 and 11-storey scheme on Bingley Street was designed by AHR Architects. Planning permission was granted for the project in November 2018, with GMI Construction Group securing a £21.5 million contract to build the development.
Members of the construction industry benefit now from a newly launched app that offers practical advice on how to manage a range of protected species commonly encountered on construction sites. The Working with Wildlife app includes information on species like badgers, bats, birds, dormice, great crested newts, otters, reptiles and water voles. Moreover, the app also details information on how to recognise these species and what signs to look for on site, allowing decisions to be made on whether works can continue or whether they need to stop whilst further advice is sought. As well as species information, it also contains an introduction to the key aspects of current legislation, a gallery of photographs to help identify species, signs of their presence and habitats, a glossary of some of the terms used, plus references and further reading. “The adaptation of the Working With Wildlife guidance into app form enables construction companies to easily share our guidance and puts it directly into the hands of their on-site employees. This will be invaluable in helping developers meet legislation requirements and encourage an understanding of the issues around wildlife conservation that their projects may come up against,” said John Newton, Founder and Strategic Advisor, Ecology Consultancy. The app was introduced by CIRIA and The Ecology Consultancy in order to allow contractors and construction workers to easily access key information about species on the go. “This new resource further enhances CIRIA’s commitment to champion biodiversity in the built environment. Alongside the BIG Biodiversity Challenge and Awards, we hope that this app will enable construction professionals to ensure that industry can be even more widely proactive in ensuring the future of our endangered species,” added Leanne Clowting, Executive Director, CIRIA. Working with Wildlife is available for free on the Apple App Store and the Google Play store.
A new tailored health and wellbeing programme will be incorporated by Caddick Construction, benefiting a total of 140 employees. The firm agreed a partnership with health and wellness provider – hero, which will deliver the programme. “Our employees are our greatest asset and we want to ensure they feel valued and supported. We are thrilled to be leading the way when it comes to mental resilience and wellbeing in the workplace – issues which should not and cannot be ignored. As employers we take our responsibility to our team members seriously and want to support them in as many ways possible to ensure they are both healthy and happy inside and outside of work,” said Caddick Construction Managing Director Andrew Murray. “The hero team impressed us with the depth and level of support they provide behind the scenes. I’m confident this project will deliver tangible results for our staff that will enhance and improve the health and wellbeing our employees, whether office based or on site,” Andrew added. The programme will cover both mental and physical health and includes one-to-one health checks and screenings, wellbeing training for all direct line managers, mental health first aid training and ongoing workshops throughout 2019. This comes as current statistics show one in six construction workers in the UK is experiencing depression, anxiety or stress. “It’s always rewarding to see businesses waking up to the fact they play a large and important part in the health and wellbeing of their team. It’s great to see Caddick Construction leading the way and championing wellness at work in such a bold and committed manner. The ‘Mindset’ programme of events have been purposely designed to offer comprehensive screenings and health checks that cover everything from blood pressure to cholesterol and blood tests too,” commented Joe Gaunt, CEO of hero. “We have been working with Caddick to understand the current ‘state of the workforce’ enabling us to create a bespoke programme, which will deliver results and have immediate and long-term effects. The hero Discovery Report demonstrated clear indicators of specific support around what the Caddick team wanted to see. And, as a result, we were able to design a bespoke and tailored programme perfect for Caddick employees,” Joe concluded.
The best-of-class in south-west Scotland’s construction sector are set to be honoured in the area’s first-ever awards focused on those actively excelling at upskilling their workforce. Contractors on projects for hub South West – the partnership dedicated to community infrastructure projects in Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway – will discover who is leading the way in training and recruitment at a ceremony taking place on May 16 at the Dalziel Park Hotel in Motherwell. The awards will commend local companies for their commitment to inspiring the next generation of professionals within the industry, as well as those firms committed to nurturing staff already working in the sector. The South West Skills & Training Awards will be divided into two categories: Best Training Culture and Best Employment Initiative for Young People. In each category, there will be a winner for firms employing more than 25 people, and those with staffing of 25 or less. All entries must be directly linked to a hub South West project, meaning that any entry must be directly connected to an initiative contracted by the partnership. Finalists will be expected to give a short presentation on their company’s initiative on the day to a small panel of representatives from CITB and Skills Development Scotland. Tier-1 contractors are encouraged to nominate sub-contractors from their supply chains. The deadline for entries is March 29. For more information and to enter these awards visit https://hubsouthwestscotland.co.uk/skillsacademy/skills-training-awards-2019. Michael McBrearty, chief executive of hub South West, said the awards mark an important new phase in the partnership’s commitment to raising the bar within the industry. “The skills shortages we have within this sector have been widely-reported and are well-known,” he said. “In addition to supporting the project’s commitment to engaging local communities, the small and larger firms involved with hub South West also strive to do their part in tackling wider skills issues across the industry. It is only fitting that we should applaud their efforts.” Entries are limited to one per company. Those for the category of Best Employment Initiative for Young People will be judged on the criteria of youth employment, the introduction of construction as a viable career path, structured framework apprenticeships, graduate programmes and initiatives targeted at women, the disadvantaged and the disabled. Best Training Culture will examine ideas and programmes that have proven successful, with a learning platform that encourages training and staff development that underpins the overall development of the business. The hub South West partnership was established in 2012 to deliver value for money on public sector community-based infrastructure projects to generate growth in local economies across Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Dumfries & Galloway. Since then, it has successfully completed projects with a total value of more than £380m.
Having announced the appointment of two new Senior Stabilisation Managers at the back end of 2018, Mick George Ltd has further signalled its intent to grow their Stabilisation division with the six-figure acquisition of an impressive Wirtgen 250i ‘S Pack’. Having landed many high-profile contracts for its Stabilisation service in recent times, the Wirtgen 250i has been thrust straight in to action at the National Trusts Wimpole Estate, Cambridgeshire as part of a ‘Welcome Project’ that Mick George Ltd are completing various enabling works at. The new machine adds to an already extensive fleet of equipment but will certainly advance the Stabilisation offering by Mick George Ltd. Commonly considered ‘unrivalled’ when it comes to mobile spreading machinery, the Wirtgen 250i offers cost-efficiency, technical sophistication, optimised control systems and the ability to confront the most difficult terrains. The ‘S Pack’ has the advanced capability to spread binding agent without generating clouds of dusts, thus lowering emission levels, permitting Mick George Ltd to tackle those environments where strict emission standards exist. Yet another advantage for Mick George Ltd over its counterparts that operate the more entry level equipment. Michael George, Managing Director of Mick George Ltd commented: ‘’To maintain the exceptionally high standards that we set, we recognise the importance in continuously investing right across the business; in personnel, sites, vehicles and equipment.’’ George continued: ‘’The construction industry is ever evolving, with Stabilisation and Remediation solutions more frequently utilised in many developments. The new machine allows us to extend our offering and ensure we’re providing the same high quality that we do with all our Earthworks provisions.’’
Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson has completed the exterior shell and associated external groundworks of Grantham’s new Savoy Cinema, which will house a state-of-the-art, five-screen, 650-seat cinema as well as restaurant and office space. The first floor of the building will be used as teaching and lecturing space by the University of Lincoln, with the ground floor currently being marketed as restaurant space. South Kesteven District Council’s office building has also been remodelled as part of the works, to provide a link from the town centre onto St Peter’s Hill and the new cinema, which is due to open in summer 2019. The project has been procured via the Scape Regional Construction framework. Andy Sewards, managing director at G F Tomlinson said: “Now that the cinema’s external shell is complete, we can see the new facility really taking shape. We’re proud to play a part in the regeneration of Grantham’s town centre and have established a great new relationship with South Kesteven District Council which can be built upon for years to come.” The £6.2m St Peter’s Hill Cinema project is part of South Kesteven District Council’s plan to regenerate Grantham’s town centre by extending the town’s leisure and cultural quarter. The deputy leader of South Kesteven District Council Cllr Kelham Cooke and Cabinet member Cllr Jacky Smith met Savoy managing director James Collington on site. “This is a significant day for Grantham and the whole district, a step closer to providing residents and visitors with a clean, modern and multi-screened cinema that can be enjoyed by many and will be an asset for the town and the surrounding area,” said Cllr Cooke. “We are committed to the regeneration of Grantham town centre, and this cinema will play a huge part in that.” Cllr Jacky Smith, who has overseen the project, expressed her pride at the topping out and handover. She hailed a bright new educational vision for the district with a university centre above the cinema, thanks to a £2m grant from the Great Lincolnshire Learning and Enterprise Partnership towards build cost and fit out. She said: “We shall have the luxury of five superb cinema screens here on the doorstep and a university centre to bring ambitious higher education options to South Kesteven, all under one roof.” Mark Robinson, Scape Group chief executive said: “It’s great to mark another project milestone that plays an important part in the regeneration of Grantham, which is currently experiencing significant investment to revitalise the town. The whole community will benefit from the improved public realm and new facilities. “By using our framework, South Kesteven District Council have guaranteed cost-effective and efficient project delivery, whilst ensuring that the local supply chain and economy has experienced significant benefits throughout the project’s lifetime and beyond.”
Bi-fold doors are massively increasing in popularity. Their aesthetically pleasing design has seen them become a must have feature modern homes, and, as the days get longer and lighter, homeowners will no doubt begin to look to their next home improvement in the form of the installation of bi-fold doors. Studies have shown that the integration of bi-fold doors in a house, is perhaps more important to new buyers than a new kitchen or conservatory! What are bi-fold doors? Bi-folds are a type of door, usually made from aluminium or PVCu panels that are hinged together. Bi-folds usually consist of between two to eight panels, making them versatile and ideal for use wherever a transformation is required. Why are bi-fold doors so desirable and what will they bring to a buildings design? Stylish design – Bi-fold doors are no doubt aesthetically pleasing and their low-profile design, that ensures maximum glazing is achieved certainly contributes to this. The sleek doors are space saving and come in various materials, colours and finishes, to complement the design of most properties. Seamless progression from the inside to the outside – Bi-fold doors allow continual progression from the inside space and the outdoors. On warmer days, fully opening the doors will welcome in the summers breeze and allow the occupants to enjoy the sun. Boost natural daylight – Bi-fold doors, normally installed in kitchens or living spaces, are a fantastic way to flood a room with light. Maximising natural day light is great way to give homeowners their daily Vitamin D fix, benefiting their health. This will contribute to lifting their mood and increasing energy levels. Create a more welcoming and sociable environment – Blending home and garden instantly creates a sociable and welcoming space, giving the feeling of an extra reception room. It’s ideal to have a patio or decking immediately outside the doors, to allow the homeowner and their guests a place to relax and unwind of an evening or host a BBQ on a warm summer’s day. Increase the property’s value – Beneficial both as a developer and a homeowner looking to sell up and move, the installation of designs, like aluminium bi-fold doors from Quickslide are known to increase a property’s value by 5 to 10%. What to look out for when recommending or choosing bi-fold doors? Trusted manufacturer – It goes without saying, but when sourcing bi-fold doors, look for a reputable manufacturer that design around quality and endurance as well as aesthetics. This is really important, as if the doors are of poor quality you put the property at risk of draughts and rain water entering, quicker wear and tear as well as the possibility of the doors being less secure, if poor quality components are used. Energy efficiency – Look to the U-value; the lower the better. Bi-folding doors can offer excellent thermal efficiency, helping homeowners to reduce their energy bills. Weather permeability – Many designs exceed industry set weather standards, offering occupants the peace of mind that the doors will stand up to even stormy weather, and will not be subject to leaks. Security – The government’s building regulations require bi-folding doors to conform to PAS 24 standards in new builds and extensions. Look out for this when selecting bi-fold doors. It’s also recommended that even if replacing existing doors, you choose a bi-fold that has passed the PAS 24 testing. Also, take note at the locking system used, and whether there are options to upgrade to ensure maximum security.
RCM, Roofing and Cladding Materials Ltd, specialists in complete through wall solutions are once again increasing its sales team and announcing the appointment of two new team members. Tim Plumpton is the new Regional Sales Manager for the Midlands, West and South West, specialising in the RCM building board range, airtightness solutions and breather membranes, as well as complete through-wall solutions. He has ten years architectural glazing and building envelope experience and an impressive twenty-seven years building products experience. Tim has previously been national sales manager for a young and growing architectural aluminium systems house. This wealth of experience and a professional can-do attitude combined with a great sense of humour, make Tim an ideal choice. Outside of work, Tim has a keen interest in sport, especially Powerboat and Jetski racing, having participated in these sports himself for many years. The new Southern Facades Manager position for the south-east region has been taken up by Robyn Lunt. Robyn joins RCM from the Proctor Group, where she was engaged as Regional Sales Manager for the South-East. She has great knowledge of the construction industry. Impressively Robyn holds the coveted PCA (Property Care Association) qualification. The PCA is a government approved trade body for damp, waterproofing, wood preserving and invasive weeds industry. She also has experience dealing with breather membranes, insulation, acoustic flooring and gas protection membranes. Outside of work, Robyn is a secret adrenaline junkie and loves keeping fit. Some of her past pursuits have been surfing, mountain biking and 4×4 off-roading. Commenting on the new appointments, Ian Quinton, Managing Director of RCM said: “Both Tim and Robyn bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their new positions at RCM. We are extending a very warm welcome to both and look forward to working alongside our new colleagues.”
Within the construction sector, working at height continues to be one of the greatest causes of death and major injury. When not following proper health and safety precautions, accidents are far too common, putting workers in danger, and the company responsible for them at risk of personal injury liability. Read more to understand five key tips to follow when working way above ground level. Carry out a risk assessment Before beginning any job or project, a comprehensive risk assessment must be carried out which ensures there is no viable alternative to working at height, and that the method of access to be used is the safest way of undertaking the job. If it is determined that working at height is unavoidable, it is an employer’s duty to carefully select the appropriate equipment, ensuring it meets all the safety standards and minimises the risk to the member of staff. Select the right equipment When choosing the appropriate scaffolding or other equipment that is necessary when working at height, there are several things to consider. Ground conditions, environmental surroundings, maximum workload and the experience of the workforce are all important aspects which help employers understand the type of equipment their staff should be using. There are plenty of places offering scaffolding towers for sale, but not all of them meet the high-quality standards necessary for a safe working environment. As such, be sure to only purchase equipment from trusted suppliers, such as those which meet the British Safety Council’s criteria for membership and those whose equipment is BSI Kitemark registered. Trained staff All staff working at height must be properly trained and understand the health and safety risks. When using any equipment on site, staff should be fully aware of its proper use, and should consult the user guides where necessary in order to make sure they are being used correctly. The user manual can assist with installation, maintenance and inspection, all of which are essential in ensuring the ongoing safety of any equipment used on site. Watch out for hazards Hazards are rife within construction sites and these are only amplified when you add great height into the equation. If staff are working on uneven surfaces, near power lines or manhole covers, then they must be equipped to deal with the potential threats they could pose. Undergoing a detailed safety assessment at the start of any project, as well as ensuring staff are always on the lookout for potential hazards when working at height, is essential. Moreover, keeping the construction site organised throughout a project is important, not only for organisational purposes, but also for health and safety, since having tools lying around can only spell disaster for workers who are trying to manoeuvre accurately at great height. Inspect equipment thoroughly Once equipment has been installed and you are ready to get started on the project, it is vital to meticulously inspect everything to ensure the equipment is as safe as possible. Be sure to keep an eye out for anything that could have been glossed over during the installation process. For instance, the braces and ties which secure the equipment to the building should be extremely secure, and the guardrails should be set-up properly. Construction sites are rampant with potential hazards, especially when staff must work at height. However, by adhering to the proper health and safety standards, carrying out thorough risk assessments and continuously being on the lookout for issues, employers can ensure their staff are kept safe from harm at all times.
