THE number of project managers, contractors and stakeholders opting to carry out training in NEC contracts has sharply risen thanks to online training courses, NEC4 drafter Dr Stuart Kings reveals. Online training on how to best use and understand the NEC suite of contracts was launched in May via NEC
The University of Manchester’s procurement process to find its development and investment partner for the £1.5 billion ID Manchester project has resumed. The search was paused in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with the four highest scoring bidders having already been notified that they would be taken forward into the detailed
After more than two years of producing work across the city, the theatre and arts venue Contact has formally regained possession of its Manchester site. With construction work to transform the building for the next generation of audiences, artists and young people having began in January 2018, the practical completion has
THE number of project managers, contractors and stakeholders opting to carry out training in NEC contracts has sharply risen thanks to online training courses, NEC4 drafter Dr Stuart Kings reveals. Online training on how to best use and understand the NEC suite of contracts was launched in May via NEC and national framework provider Pagabo. As with courses across the board, this training was converted into an online format and a huge response has seen all online training completely fully booked and future courses all reaching maximum numbers already. Dr Stuart Kings, technical director and in-house NEC expert at Pagabo, said: “It’s been really important to ensure that training can still be maintained during a time when organisations need NEC guidance the most, and we’re thrilled to report that the response to these online courses has been phenomenal. “People want the accreditation – and the online format has made the courses far more accessible at a time when individuals and organisations alike have adapted quickly to technology. “With the NEC, there are multiple contracts – a bit like a ‘box set’ of all contracts which includes consultancy, sub-contractors, major works and design, and build and operate. NEC covers every procurement exercise under the sub and embodies the principles of good project management – which is why it is now the dominant contract in the construction industry.” Stuart was one of the drafters of the NEC4 suite of contractors, which are used by Pagabo in its procurement processes. He reports that many organisations are currently wanting to gain a deeper understanding of how NEC contractors works, and to ensure that they are up to speed with the way it can be of benefit to them in terms of project management. As well as giving training to Pagabo’s contractors, supply chain and clients, Stuart has also been giving advice to organisations such as Pick Everard. Stuart continued: “While the NEC contract covers major projects such as Hinckley Point C, CrossRail and HS2, it is also suitable for smaller projects too. The training courses have taken people through the contract in close detail, from start to end. They have provided a checklist of actions taking you from day one of the project, right through to completion.” Simon Toplass, chief executive at Pagabo, said: “The NEC contract itself has been around since 1991, and when it launched it was seen as radically rewriting the rulebook. Instead of focusing purely on contractual procedures, the contract became more about project management principles and modern practice. “NEC is now so central to procurement particularly within the construction industry, so it’s really crucial for framework providers like us to offer real expertise in order to advise clients and suppliers and give the best possible support. We’re thrilled to have an in-house expert in Stuart and to be able to offer this expertise and training to others in the sector.” For more information, please visit www.pagabo.co.uk
The University of Manchester’s procurement process to find its development and investment partner for the £1.5 billion ID Manchester project has resumed. The search was paused in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with the four highest scoring bidders having already been notified that they would be taken forward into the detailed dialogue stage. “The university is committed to the delivery of ID Manchester and our ambition to create the innovation capital of Europe is unwavering. Having paused, reviewed and reflected, we now have a way forward to resume the final stage of the selection process to find our joint venture partner,” said Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, president and vice-chancellor of The University of Manchester. The final partner selection will be made in the spring of 2021. “We look forward to beginning the detailed dialogue with the selected bidders. Pausing the process has allowed ourselves and the bidding teams space to deal with the immediate impact and challenges created by the pandemic. ID Manchester is an incredibly exciting project and we are looking forward to progressing to the next stage,” added Diana Hampson, director of estates and facilities at The University of Manchester. Since 2004, the university has contributed more than £746 million to the economy and it is on these foundations it seeks to build ID Manchester. ID Manchester has been earmarked as an engine for economic growth with the potential to create more than 6,000 jobs. The available development space is four million sq ft. it benefits from existing green space and the 650,000 sq ft Sackville Street Building.
After more than two years of producing work across the city, the theatre and arts venue Contact has formally regained possession of its Manchester site. With construction work to transform the building for the next generation of audiences, artists and young people having began in January 2018, the practical completion has been reached in a “significant milestone” for the £6.75 million project. “The re-opened Contact will transform the experience for audiences, artists and young people alike. It’s more important than ever that young people from all backgrounds and cultures can come together to create, express themselves, and access free training and skills,” said Matt Fenton, chief executive and artistic director at Contact. “We can’t wait to start to welcome back our young participants from across Greater Manchester, and in due course to host audiences of all ages to experience shows in our unique, sustainably-designed building.” Working with Sheppard Robson, Contact designed the new building to include a dedicated arts and health space. The venue also comprises a purpose-built recording studio, a rehearsal studio, refurbished performance spaces and offices. Since the spring of 2018, Contact’s staff and participants have been based at the Powerhouse in Moss Side and have undertaken their shows and activities across the city. The project has been funded through a £3.85 million investment from Arts Council England, plus generous grants from other supporters, trusts and foundations including Manchester City Council, the Foyle Foundation, the Granada Foundation, Wellcome Trust, the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation and the Oglesby Charitable Trust. Help in-kind was given from Manchester University and Bruntwood. Construction work was carried out by F Parkinson, with project management from Mace. Legal advice was provided by Mills and Reeve.
