March 10, 2020

Fit-out underway at automation specialist Sewtec’s new multi-million pound 75,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Work is underway to fit-out industrial robotics specialist Sewtec Automation’s new multi-million pound 75,000 sq ft design and manufacturing facility in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. As part of the company’s ongoing growth and transformation strategy, Sewtec Automation has signed a 15-year lease on a building located at Silkwood Park near junction

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Keeping Workers Safe Amidst a Rise in Greener Construction

Sustainability is a topical issue for every industry and as such, the rate of businesses that are taking part and investing in greener practices and processes is continuing to increase. This is also in line with the announcement from the UK Government of its landmark Green Finance Strategy, which set

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UK Nuclear Business Sold in £250m Deal

UK Nuclear Business Sold in £250m Deal

UK company John Wood Group has sold its nuclear business to American engineering giant Jacobs in a £250 million deal. The firm, headquartered in Aberdeen, completed the deal for Wood Nuclear, bringing more than 2,000 employees into Jacobs’ business and expanding its UK employee base to nearly 11,000. This deal

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Access to East Midlands Airport Improved

Access to East Midlands Airport Improved

Access to East Midlands Airport has been improved with the official launch of a new 2.5km route. A £10 million infrastructure scheme has reached completion, delivering the Castle Donington relief road in Leicestershire. This provides a much-needed link from the airport to the A50. Principal contractor Chasetown Civil Engineering worked

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Issue 322 : Nov 2024

March 10, 2020

Fit-out underway at automation specialist Sewtec’s new multi-million pound 75,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Wakefield, West Yorkshire

Work is underway to fit-out industrial robotics specialist Sewtec Automation’s new multi-million pound 75,000 sq ft design and manufacturing facility in Wakefield, West Yorkshire. As part of the company’s ongoing growth and transformation strategy, Sewtec Automation has signed a 15-year lease on a building located at Silkwood Park near junction 40 of the M1. The new location is more than double the size of its current premises in Dewsbury and Wakefield combined. Sewtec Automation designs, manufactures, installs and commissions complex industrial automation systems for global blue-chip clients in the pharmaceutical, personal care, pet care, food and beverage and tobacco industries. More than 85 per cent of the company’s sales are exports. Sewtec Automation’s clients include Nestlé, Procter & Gamble, Imperial Tobacco, Tata Global Beverages and Hershey. Last year, Sewtec Automation announced its turnover had more than doubled to a record £28m with EBITDA of £9m, in the year to 30 June 2019. The company is now aiming to deliver a turnover of £50m by 2023. Investment in the new facility is supported by the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Business Growth Programme with a £250,000 grant for Sewtec Automation to invest in its new headquarters and to implement its recruitment strategy. The company estimates the new site will create an additional 70 high-skilled jobs. Derbyshire-based Key Property Solutions is the main contractor on the fit-out after being appointed following a competitive tendering process. The new facility will include modern R&D and office spaces, with breakout areas to further enhance innovation and problem-solving. It will also provide a significant increase in the sizes of the assembly area, machine shop, quality control, fabrication bays and stores. Works are expected to last ten weeks with all Sewtec Automation’s 130 employees from its existing Dewsbury and Wakefield sites undergoing a phased relocation to the facility from March onwards. Commenting on this latest news, Sewtec Automation managing director, Mark Cook, said: “Demand for our inventive and highly effective approach to automation continues to grow worldwide. “With work now underway at our new facility, the next stage of Sewtec Automation’s transformation is almost upon us and we are all motivated and excited by the new opportunities our new facility will deliver. “Our investment, combined with the support of the LEP and Wakefield Council, means we will be in the optimum position for further expansion and job creation as soon as we move in.” Sewtec Automation’s rapid growth follows a successful management buyout in August 2017, which was backed by Leeds-headquartered private equity firm Endless. Roger Marsh OBE DL, chair of LEP and NP11, said:“Investment is a key factor in helping our businesses to grow, improve productivity andultimately create new jobs. “Last year, through our Business Growth Programme, we invested £5.9 million to support 128 businesses in the region and contributed to the creation of 704 jobs. “I’d encourage all businesses to get in touch with the LEP Growth Service and access the support available for growing businesses” Darren Byford, cabinet member for economic growth and regeneration at Wakefield Council, said: “We are very pleased that Sewtec Automation has chosen to expand their operations in Wakefield. It’s great news, bringing quality new jobs and opportunities in a growing sector. “With strong transport links and a great business community, Wakefield provides an excellent location for investment. As part of our economic strategy we are very keen to support businesses to help them to grow and expand, offering a range of support and advice to both established and new businesses within our district.” Fox Lloyd Jones (FLJ), which advised on the building’s acquisition, is project managing the fit-out supported by architects Enjoy Design and Triangle Consulting Engineers. FLJ and Enjoy Design are both located in Leeds, whilst Triangle Consulting Engineers are based in Tadcaster. For further information visit www.sewtec.co.uk

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Keeping Workers Safe Amidst a Rise in Greener Construction

Sustainability is a topical issue for every industry and as such, the rate of businesses that are taking part and investing in greener practices and processes is continuing to increase. This is also in line with the announcement from the UK Government of its landmark Green Finance Strategy, which set out plans to drastically increase sustainable investment, and for the UK to reach net zero emissions by 2050.  There’s a clear argument to improve sustainability efforts across industries, with research showing that reducing emissions by 42% can result in a growth in the economy of 72%. So it comes as no surprise that the construction and building industry is changing significantly as well; many buildings are now designed to be as eco-friendly as possible, with a portion aiming to produce renewable energy on site through solar panels for instance. But with innovative green construction methods on the rise, how can employers ensure that with these new adaptations, workers and importantly lone workers are safe during the construction and development of such sites? Increased risk Materials and methods involved in greener construction and development are brand new to many workers and certainly not as familiar as traditional techniques, which can create safety risks. Research already shows that lone workers, those working at height, and also those in more typical working conditions face increased danger from green construction projects. It was found that they involved an increased exposure to ‘working at height; with electrical current; near unstable soils; and near heavy equipment for a greater period of time’ than traditional, less sustainable projects. Workers faced with these environments are then also expected to tackle new techniques for construction and handle new, unfamiliar materials as well – potentially a dangerous combination. On top of this, the tasks are typically more high risk as well, such as: constructing atria, installing vegetated roofs, installing domestic or commercial wind turbines, and installing solar panels. Findings also detailed that there had been a significant rise in injuries, including lacerations and sprains, from working with recycled construction materials, and a sharp increase in eye strain from working with reflective roof membranes, with links to the 24% increase in falls from height. Also revealed, was a rise in exposure to harmful substances as a direct result of workers installing greener, more innovative wastewater technologies. It’s clear there are unique challenges for employers to overcome to be able to provide improved safety for workers on these sustainable construction projects, particularly as techniques become more commonplace. With this form of development intended to improve and protect the health of its future occupants, it’s imperative that the health and safety of construction workers isn’t sacrificed along the way.  Ensuring safety To meet health and safety requirements, employers need to ensure they’re analysing every aspect of the scenario and implementing the best and most suited safety technology to protect all workers, from those working alone to those working at height. Lone worker devices are a vital resource for those that work in isolation as they operate without supervision or direct contact with colleagues and so the risks are significantly increased. Without team members nearby the speed at which assistance can be provided in the event of an injury, illness or other emergency incident is reduced. Users must rely on these devices, such as robust smartphones with built-in alarms or tilt sensors, and expect them to have a constant connection and work faultlessly; so that if an emergency occurs, they can trust in the technology to raise an alarm and it will be dealt with effectively. To ensure this is a reality, employers need to carefully consult with specialists to ensure the right technology is selected to suit every situation. There are multiple factors to think about as well, not just the device itself, and the first point to consider is the workplace employees are operating in, to assess which features and format would be most suited. For example, employees on construction sites require hard wearing devices that can withstand being dropped and can be operated by someone wearing heavy duty or wet gloves. There are multiple options available on the market and by working with specialists, businesses can ensure that every working environment has a bespoke setup that is specific to the needs of the employees and the business as a whole, to counteract the increased risks from these greener construction situations. Functionality vs cost In addition to the environment, another factor for consideration is employee communication. Lone worker devices can now be multi-functional and address additional communication challenges, as well as worker safety. So instead of carrying a number of devices that serve different purposes, functions such as comms, lone worker and messaging can all be integrated into the same device. Alternatively, if a business has already installed a communications system, but without a lone worker function, the existing solutions can potentially be enhanced to provide lone worker safety functionality. For some organisations this can be a cost-effective solution to the issue of lone worker safety, which in an economically-strained time is beneficial. However, procurers shouldn’t be swayed by the cheapest options available, as ultimately worker safety relies on these decisions and they need to be able to instil confidence in the workforce it is supposed to help protect. Cheaper overseas devices don’t adhere to the same standards and businesses can’t trust that these have been fully tested and certified.  Clearly businesses need to make these changes now to streamline employee safety in line with the shifting landscape and innovative procedures, but they need to make the right decisions that suit these environments. By working with a supplier that is an expert in the market, they can help to evaluate a business’ requirements in detail and recommend a suitable solution that fits their specific needs within a greener construction environment, while focusing on integrating systems where possible to save on costs; rather than adopting a ‘one device fits all’ approach that doesn’t suit the increasingly sustainable future. Klaus Allion, Managing Director,

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West Country house builder welcomes new Joint Acting Managing Directors

Award-winning West Country house builder Devonshire Homes has appointed two new Joint Acting Managing Directors. Jane Pearce and Cris Neale, who have both held senior positions at the Tiverton-based house builder, have now taken the reins at the firm, which has been building homes across the South West since 1992. With over 25 years’ experience in property development, Jane joined Devonshire Homes in 2009 as Head of Sales and Marketing, becoming a Director in 2015. As the Sales and Marketing Director, Jane led the Sales team to ensure that sales targets were met and oversaw the operations of the Marketing Suites located across the region. Jane was instrumental in leading the re-branding and marketing campaigns for Devonshire Homes, establishing the house builder’s position in the region as a high-quality, trustworthy developer. Cris also has over 25 years of housing development experience. After previously being Senior Surveyor at Devonshire Homes from 2004 to 2010, Cris re-joined the company in 2013 as Development Manager and was made a Director in 2015. As the Commercial and Technical Director, Cris was, and remains, responsible for the procurement, quantity surveying and technical aspects of the business which was key to the successful delivery of their recent outstanding developments. Jane and Cris will lead on identifying land opportunities and be responsible for overseeing operations from land purchase through to customer service. Cris commented: “Jane and I have been appointed Joint Acting Managing Directors at a time when the business is focused on growth with a strong desire to become one of the larger players in the region. We are both dedicated to facilitating Devonshire Homes’ growth ambitions to deliver over 250 homes per annum by 2022.” Jane added: “Devonshire Homes has two new sites launching in 2020. We will be releasing homes for sale at Longston Cross, Bovey Tracey, at the beginning of March, and we have recently been granted planning permission for our new Kingsbridge site, Applegate Park. These sites are poised to deliver much needed new homes in South Devon and we’re particularly looking forward to working with the team to make effective starts on these sites and deliver high quality homes and developments.”    Independent house builder, Devonshire Homes, has been creating new homes and communities in towns and rural areas across Devon since 1992. The house builder specialises in providing homes which reflect the traditional characteristics and building styles of the region combined with high specification, contemporary interiors. Current developments include: Ladywell Meadows, Chulmleigh; Tarka View, Crediton; Longston Cross, Bovey Tracey and Gwallon Keas, St. Austell. For more information, visit www.devonshirehomes.co.uk.

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UK Nuclear Business Sold in £250m Deal

UK Nuclear Business Sold in £250m Deal

UK company John Wood Group has sold its nuclear business to American engineering giant Jacobs in a £250 million deal. The firm, headquartered in Aberdeen, completed the deal for Wood Nuclear, bringing more than 2,000 employees into Jacobs’ business and expanding its UK employee base to nearly 11,000. This deal will enhance Jacobs’ credentials as a global leader of total lifecycle nuclear services and technology-enabled solutions, providing strategic support to clients’ mission-critical defense and clean energy priorities, nuclear clean-up and decommissioning, environmental restoration and operational support. “Bringing together Wood Nuclear within Jacobs’ Critical Mission Solutions business provides a powerful platform to support clients’ complex programs, respond to unprecedented changes in the many sectors and geographies where we work and help accelerate commitments to a more sustainable future,” said Jacobs Chair and CEO Steve Demetriou. “With our shared values, technical heritage and global reach, we are combining complementary capabilities to deliver high value, differentiated nuclear and defence solutions for our clients and greater opportunities for our people across our diverse portfolio.” Clive White of Wood Nuclear will lead the new combined business as Senior Vice President Critical Mission Solutions – International (CMS-I), reporting to Dawne Hickton Executive Vice President and COO of Critical Mission Solutions. Leveraging Jacobs’ industry leading integration approach, a joint Jacobs-Wood Nuclear Integration Management Office (IMO) has been formed and is working to oversee the integration process, building on the strong cultural foundations of both organisations to maximise the value of the new entity.

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Access to East Midlands Airport Improved

Access to East Midlands Airport Improved

Access to East Midlands Airport has been improved with the official launch of a new 2.5km route. A £10 million infrastructure scheme has reached completion, delivering the Castle Donington relief road in Leicestershire. This provides a much-needed link from the airport to the A50. Principal contractor Chasetown Civil Engineering worked with Leicestershire County Council and designers IDOM Merebrook to deliver the scheme. Pick Everard also delivered project management, quantity surveying and health and safety advisory services Paul Gibbs, associate director at Pick Everard said: “Although the road is quite short in terms of distance, the project required a significant amount of technical understanding. It was an incredibly complex infrastructure project to deliver, with constraints including: construction taking place under a 185,000 volt power line; the demolition of an abandoned underground reservoir and the site’s close proximity to East Midlands Airport. “Airports have strict guidelines on how neighbouring construction works affecting the land will alter wildlife patterns. We had to be mindful of grass seeding and vegetation specification, considering the length of grass, height of mounds and hedgerows planted in relation to bird patterns. “We held ‘bird strike mitigation meetings’ every two weeks with East Midlands Airport, monitoring bird flight and feeding patterns throughout the duration of the works. “Wildlife requirements were also balanced alongside security considerations when working in proximity to the airport boundary security fencing.    “Further public liaison meetings took place with local councils and groups for the duration of the project to ensure minimum impact on the local community.” The new road now also provides access points for Miller Homes, Redrow Homes and Clowes Developments’ 900-unit housing development and neighbouring commercial schemes. Jake Richardson, engineering manager at Miller Homes Midlands added: “We feel very strongly about leaving a positive legacy that benefits the local community wherever we build. This approach has been guiding us since we announced our Charters Gate development in the area. “By joining forces with the two neighbouring developers and working closely with our contractors, including Pick Everard, we’ve delivered a complex but very much needed piece of local infrastructure. Built to help ease traffic in a busy commuter hotspot for Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, we hope it will benefit both residents and local businesses for years to come. “This is just one way Miller Homes is investing in Castle Donington, alongside building a new primary school, sports pitch and village park to support our £1.5 million Section 106 contributions to the area.”

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