The Ciel hotel currently under construction in the Dubai Marina is set to break records as the world’s tallest hotel once completed. The modernistic building is being constructed by international property developers The First Group in Dubai, in conjunction with the China Railway Construction Corporation. The hotel, which is scheduled
Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) is today calling on students with a passion for innovation and disruption to help lead the charge for change in the construction sector. CSIC is looking to galvanise forward-thinking attitudes by launching its Built Environment Innovation MSc Fund 2020-21, calling on prospective students who want
PLANNING permission has been granted for a revolutionary multi-million-pound ‘public service development’ at Western Way, Bury St Edmunds – designed to unite public services with enterprising space. The 17-acre development will provide a nationally ground-breaking way to deliver integrated public services for its communities, as part of a network of
In anticipation of the arrival of its disruptive and unique, long-teach telescopic leader rig, the TM 20 LR, the UK’s leading specialist sheet piling expert, Sheet Piling (UK) Ltd, is whetting the appetite of various Tier-1 construction and engineering contractors, by issuing an in-depth explanatory animated video of the rig
The development of almost 100 homes on York City FC’s Bootham Crescent ground has received planning permission. The joint application, from Persimmon Homes and York City Football Club, outlined a 93-home scheme on the 4.25-acre in York city centre. The plans also include a memorial garden and a retained section
Missing the initial deadline is almost a running joke in the construction industry. Of course, with a potentially tricky time on the horizon after COVID -19, making sure that our teams and projects are as productive as possible could spell the difference between survival and going under. With that in
Do you want something iconic for your garden or patio? You can choose the bean bag chairs. Remember, bean bags are making a comeback in different styles. These are perfect for every situation. Feel free to visit Zanui for bean bag chairs to buy stylish and durable furniture. Some high-quality
The Ciel hotel currently under construction in the Dubai Marina is set to break records as the world’s tallest hotel once completed. The modernistic building is being constructed by international property developers The First Group in Dubai, in conjunction with the China Railway Construction Corporation. The hotel, which is scheduled to open in 2023, will have its foundations completed on the 3rd September 2020, following an initial 7,000 cubic metre concrete pour at the beginning of August. The finished Ciel hotel will take its place in the iconic Dubai Marina skyline, cementing its reputation as one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Architecture London-based architectural firm NORR is responsible for the iconic design of the new tower block, which will reach 360 metres at the pinnacle once complete. The stunning development has already received several architectural awards, including Best Hotel Architecture Arabia and Best International Hotel Architecture at the International Property Awards in 2019. The hotel, sculpted in glass and metal, will offer 360-degree views across the Arabian Gulf, the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina from a glass observation deck. The 81st floor Ciel Observatory and Lounge will be crowned by a rooftop Sky Terrace with a bar and infinity pool. Interior Design The interior of the building is planned to be no less spectacular than the exterior. The soaring building will be entered through an internal atrium reaching 300 metres in height, featuring naturally ventilated landscaped terraces stacked vertically throughout the entirety of the 82 floors. These will provide occupants with stunningly designed interactive communal spaces inspired by the Japanese Wabi-Sabi concept, which focuses on warm, rustic aesthetics with an understated elegance. Amenities Guests at the Ciel will have multiple options for drinking and dining, including a speciality signature restaurant, all-day dining, and a lounge and bar towards the top of the building to take advantage of the breathtaking views. The 55th floor will feature a luxury spa and health club, where visitors can work out or unwind while enjoying incredible ocean views. The First Group The First Group has 18 properties in Dubai including Ciel, which is a flagship development in an ever-expanding portfolio. The dynamic property development company launched in 2005 and since that time has created a comprehensive portfolio in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, which includes food and beverage brands, residential properties, asset management services for real estate, and upscale hotels. The First Group creates niche offerings for international investors with a focus on high-growth markets, rewarding clients with a comprehensive package of incentives and benefits outside of their investment. These include financial bonuses as well as complimentary hotel stays, travel rewards, and other high-quality lifestyle experiences.
Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) is today calling on students with a passion for innovation and disruption to help lead the charge for change in the construction sector. CSIC is looking to galvanise forward-thinking attitudes by launching its Built Environment Innovation MSc Fund 2020-21, calling on prospective students who want to play a part in tackling climate change, to take the lead on significant technical advancements in the construction world and to be involved in finding that one simple creative idea that can completely transform the way the sector operates. From the rise of 3D printing, allowing companies to print out entire buildings, to virtual reality software being used in the planning stages of construction, the opportunities for creative and disruptive thinking students are endless and successful innovation enables businesses to punch above their weight. It saves time and money. It breeds new opportunities. And, ultimately, it can give companies a competitive edge when looking to grow. There are up to 20 places, each with £6,530 funding available, to help support candidates who are looking to carve a career and look to change the future of the built environment sector. The grant will encourage new talent into Scotland’s construction landscape and to apply, CSIC is asking that students have an interest in bringing a creative thinking solution to the built environment sector and that they can support and work on a research project during their programme of study that can be applied directly to the industry. Stephen Good, Chief Executive at CSIC, said: “Some of the most important solutions and innovative ideas come from those on the ground. Creating this opportunity for the future innovators of the construction world to develop their ideas is key to changing the sector. This is an exciting opportunity for students to be part of real transformational change together with industry, helping to set a new direction post lockdown as we build back better to create a built environment that works effectively for people, business and our economy. “Construction and the built environment are changing, and the skills needed are wide ranging, including digital, climate change logistics, engineering, design and robotics. The demand for skilled professionals in the industry sector remains high and the opportunities are countless. The MSc funding offers people a real opportunity to create a career that positively impacts everyone through the physical spaces we inhabit.” Dale Johnstone, who benefited from CSIC’s MSc grant in 2016/17, said: “I would encourage anyone interested in developing their skills and prospects of a career in the built environment sector to apply for the MSc Grant on offer from CSIC. The access to industry experts within the sector was incredible. “I was partnered with the Scottish Borders Council as part of their Engineering and Design department and after the programme secured a full-time role at the Council. This new role allowed me to be a part of several civil engineering projects across the Borders, from the design stage right up to construction. I take great pride in being able to provide projects which have significant benefits to the local community and which continue to improve and shape the world we live in.” Students can apply with an industry partner already in mind or CSIC can help find a partner from the wide network of contacts the Innovation Centre already has. During the programme, students will work closely with their chosen industry partner and have access to a number of skilled mentors, workshops and the chance to connect with experts across the sector. To find out more, visit https://www.cs-ic.org/innovationcentre/future-skills/the-built-environment-innovation-msc-fund/
PLANNING permission has been granted for a revolutionary multi-million-pound ‘public service development’ at Western Way, Bury St Edmunds – designed to unite public services with enterprising space. The 17-acre development will provide a nationally ground-breaking way to deliver integrated public services for its communities, as part of a network of existing and planned ‘hub’ projects in West Suffolk. The development will offer a new, state-of-the-art leisure centre with an integrated health and social care hub, including large amounts of new employment space, council services, police, an advice centre, voluntary organisations, and community and education services, all located within one building, improving public access, service delivery and efficiency. As well as offering opportunities for multiple other partners to join the scheme under the auspices of the government’s One Public Estate programme, the project will repurpose a 10,000m2, 1960s depot building as part of its sustainability objectives, including significant infrastructure improvements and while further work will take place on a green travel plan with the emphasis being on reducing car travel. The plans were approved by West Suffolk Council at a committee meeting last week. A full range of services will be undertaken by built environment consultancy Pick Everard – operating under Perfect Circle’s unique collaboration, which works exclusively on Scape Group’s Built Environment Consultancy Services (BECS) framework – including architecture, building service, structural and civil engineering, quantity surveying, sustainability including BREEAM, BIM, highways engineering, interior design, and health and safety. Paul Darlow, regional lead for East Anglia at Perfect Circle, who is also regional director at Pick Everard, said: “We are really pleased to receive planning permission for the redevelopment of Western Way. This is set to be a significant project for the region and will form part of the long-term vision to create jobs and attract investment to the area.” The team has been working on the project since 2016, following their work on the original masterplan and delivery of phase one, West Suffolk House, in 2009; producing master planning options, project costs and supporting the business case, which were presented in 2019. Over this period, the team has been providing a large range of services to deliver this second phase, including architecture, building services, structural and civil engineering, quantity surveying, sustainability including BREEAM, BIM, highways engineering, interior design, landscape and health and safety. Victoria Brambini, managing director at Perfect Circle, said: “This latest step in the Western Way development has been a long time in the making, following several years of hard work alongside the council to bring this ambitious concept together and create detailed plans for the public service development.” Councillor John Griffiths, leader of West Suffolk Council, said: “We are pleased that another important step has been taken along the way to deliver another ground-breaking initiative in West Suffolk. Not only will people be able to access health, leisure, education and public services on one site, but it shows that working together across the public sector in new ways can bring greater benefits to health and wellbeing. We are now looking forward to working with our partners to consider the next stages of delivering this long-term and exciting project, which if anything, recent events have shown is even more needed than ever”. Councillor Jo Rayner, portfolio holder for leisure, culture and community hubs, said: “Western Way is part of the way public sector partners in Suffolk are working across traditional boundaries to improve outcomes for our communities. Mildenhall Hub is another such project nearing completion which brings services together in one place so people can benefit from a more holistic approach to their needs, such as having complementary facilities and expert advice, such as health and leisure, together in one place.” Perfect Circle, comprising Pick Everard, Gleeds and AECOM, was appointed for the scheme via Scape Group’s National Built Environment Consultancy Services (BECS) framework, which provides the broadest range of consultancy services available to be public sector. For more information about Perfect Circle, visit www.perfectcircle.co.uk.
In anticipation of the arrival of its disruptive and unique, long-teach telescopic leader rig, the TM 20 LR, the UK’s leading specialist sheet piling expert, Sheet Piling (UK) Ltd, is whetting the appetite of various Tier-1 construction and engineering contractors, by issuing an in-depth explanatory animated video of the rig that is set to revolutionise their project methodologies. The 5-minute instructive video demonstrates just how much of a game-changer the new telescopic leader rig will be, with its capabilities being even more impressive than Sheet Piling UK’s 2018 long-reach telescopic leader rig, the TM 12/15 LR, itself peerless in terms of its functionality. The animated video explains how the massive success of the TM 12/15 LR, and its own clear advantages over any other leader rig in the market, have paved the way for the TM 20 LR. This is another rig manufactured exclusively for Sheet Piling UK, by the world’s leading rig manufacturer, ABI Group, as the sheet piling specialist continues its mission to deliver innovative and best-value solutions for its construction and civil engineering clients. The animated video homes in on four core sectors in which the TM 20 LR is set to eclipse rigs using traditional methodologies and deliver significant programme and cost benefits – rail infrastructure, ports and harbours, road infrastructure and commercial and residential construction. Within each, the TM 20 LR promises to remove any need for enabling works or the creation of temporary structures built solely to facilitate sheet pile-driving. The TM 20 LR builds on the unique facets of the TM 12/15 LR, extending that rig’s benefits still further and including various enhancements. This ‘big daddy’ of telescopic leader rigs boasts the same 8.1m horizontal reach, from the centre of the machine to the pile line but has a maximum driven or extracted pile length of 20 metres, rather than 16 metres. The maximum below-platform driving depth is 3.4m and the rig comes with a powerful MRZV-30VV, variable moment, variable frequency vibratory hammer, with hydraulic rapid-charging docking station. A heavy-duty, hydraulically extendable undercarriage has a unique infrastructure mode that enables the machine to operate to a reduced footprint in restricted areas. 900mm-wide trackpads reduce ground-bearing pressure and additional vertically stacked counterweights enhance its stability. Its Euro Stage-V engine is fully environmentally compliant, whilst a state-of-the-art Sennebogen and F-series base carrier, has a bespoke boom hinge, for long-reach capability. When operating in long-reach mode, the TM 20 has a maximum load capacity of ten tons and a maximum crowd and extraction force of 180 kN. Sheet Piling (UK) Ltd’s managing director, Andrew Cotton, says: “This extraordinary sheet piling rig will further the revolution begun by our unique TM 12/15 LR rig and become the most talked-about piece of equipment in the sector. At a time when public spending in some areas needs to be restrained, to recoup some of the money borrowed to cope with the coronavirus pandemic, but when infrastructure and construction projects need to simultaneously be rolled out quickly, this telescopic leader rig is the solution all Tier-1 contractors should be turning to. “We have no hesitation in saying that the TM 20 will revolutionise thousands of projects, whether we are talking about smart motorways, HS2 projects, renovations to Victorian port and harbour quays or domestic and commercial building programmes striving to meet Government targets. “Furthermore, for those construction and engineering companies under financial pressures, this rig brings welcome and extensive cost savings, also slashing the time required to complete sheet piling project stages. It is no exaggeration to call our unique rig a game-changer, in every sense of the word. We cannot wait to unveil it in August.”
The development of almost 100 homes on York City FC’s Bootham Crescent ground has received planning permission. The joint application, from Persimmon Homes and York City Football Club, outlined a 93-home scheme on the 4.25-acre in York city centre. The plans also include a memorial garden and a retained section of the west stand, as well as a replacement for the flagpole at the stadium. “We respect and understand the importance of designing a development that is in keeping with Bootham Crescent’s history and believe our approved planning application reflects this,” said Scott Waters, deputy managing director for Persimmon Homes Yorkshire. “With planning now approved we will continue to work closely with York City Football Club to establish a feasible progression for the next stage of the much-loved ground’s development.” Planning permission for the development was granted by City of York Council at a meeting. York City are set to relocate to the LNER community stadium, which is currently nearing completion. “It is good news for the club that the planning application has been approved. After being a baseball pitch, cricket ground and a football ground, Bootham Crescent will now start another new chapter as a prime location for city centre homes,” commented YCFC board member Ian McAndrew. “It is time for the club to move to a new stadium which is better equipped to allow the club to grow, with excellent facilities for fans, staff and the team. The club will continue to work closely with Persimmon Homes and Historic England to ensure that the history of Bootham Crescent as a football ground is represented at the new housing site.” In 2004, York City chairman Jason McGill agreed a deal to buy back Bootham Crescent, with a condition that the club would move to a new stadium within an agreed timeframe.
Missing the initial deadline is almost a running joke in the construction industry. Of course, with a potentially tricky time on the horizon after COVID -19, making sure that our teams and projects are as productive as possible could spell the difference between survival and going under. With that in mind, be sure to read the tactics that ate essential for maximum construction productivity, below. Application of analytics While the current state of play in construction is not one that favours the collection and application of detailed data, ‘the times they are a’ changin’. It’s a good thing too because closing tracking of any number of data points can help boost productivity and efficiency in a business specialising in construction. One of the top uses for data analytics is to help more accurately predict the time and budget outcome on the next job. Happily, with more agile data collection and reporting software, these predictions are something that it is now possible to make. Of course, keeping track of spending and schedules isn’t the only thing that analytics are useful for in the construction industry. They can help boost productivity in a variety of areas such as workflow, recruitment, training and event marketing. Something that can make a massive difference for smaller construction forms concerning the order they book. In fact, by using a reporting tool, to sum up marketing data, it becomes clearer to read, understand and most importantly use. Thus providing valuable insight into how you can get more business on your books. Something that any construction company looking to be productive in the coming months will find essential. After all, you can’t be productive as a business, if you have no projects. Plan and manage workflow Have you ever begun a long and complicated journey without first checking the map or programming a sat nav? Probably not. However, inadequately planned constructions projects begin all the time. They don’t tend to end well, either. Usually over running in both time and funds. Something that will certainly not endear you to your client for the next project they consider doing. To that end, before anything else, it is imperative to thoroughly plan a job. Now, this is a task that many site managers loathe, as it’s all paperwork and numbers. However, without an accurate map or schedule of what needs doing when, and by whom, you genuinely risk the success of the whole project. With that in mind, putting in some additional work at the beginning of a project is well worth the effort. In fact, it can save you time, stress, and hassle later on and vastly increases the chances that you will finish on schedule and on budget. You’ll also look a lot more professional to your client while working for them too. Something that can help get you repeat business once the job is completed. Inventory management Building materials are essential to the construction process. In fact, without them, work will grind to a halt. Unfortunately, no brick fairy magically replenishes stock when they start to wane. What that means is you must find an effective way of keeping track of the stock you have, and when it needs to be reordered. (That is before stocks run dry completely). Happily, tech is making this endless task a little easier to manage. In fact, there are a variety of inventory management software options to choose from. It is also possible to use digital barcode or QR readers to make logging stock numbers and usage easier. You can even automate your system so when it reaches a specific number, items are immediately reordered and delivered to site. Something that can make a massive difference in productivity and prevent all sorts of troublesome delays. Rest is as essential as work. It often seems as if there is more waiting around on-site than productivity. However, you can fix this by using some of the methods described in this post. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you can expect your employees to work without breaks at all. In fact, the joint physical strain of working in construction combined with the high-risk environment means you will want your employees to be rested and alert. Otherwise, you could have accidents on your hands that will cost you more than just a delay in your schedule. With that in mind, be sure to have a clear break policy for all your workers. Also, each manager and supervisor must be consistent in enforcing this. Even when you are on a tight deadline. Onboard and train everyone to a high standard. Do you know what makes it easy for your employees to be as productive as possible? It’s when they know what they are doing and can work effectively without micromanagement. That means onboarding new employees is essential, as is regular training for those that have been with you for some time. The thing is that in construction, such training can be so easily overlooked. After all, there are so many elements to be trained on from safety, processes, equipment, machinery, and skills. However, while it may seem as if you are losing time through training, you will actually gain it overall. After all, workers that can work safely, in a self-directed manner are essential to productivity. Consider new ways of working. The construction industry is changing all the time, and the way things are done is regularly updated to make it cheaper, faster or easier. This is excellent news for any construction company looking to boost their productivity. In particular, your construction business may wish to consider prefab options for buildings, sections of buildings, and roofs. The reason being that they will cut down on your labour and time needs and can be a massive boon to productivity. Final thoughts Sometimes working harder in the field of construction is counterproductive. Instead, businesses in this field need to consider ways of working smarter. That is using tech and innovation, and investing in the training and well
Do you want something iconic for your garden or patio? You can choose the bean bag chairs. Remember, bean bags are making a comeback in different styles. These are perfect for every situation. Feel free to visit Zanui for bean bag chairs to buy stylish and durable furniture. Some high-quality bean bags are available in the market to fit in your home. Here are some essential considerations for the selection of the best bean bag chairs. Fabric is a Crucial Factor Beans bags don’t have any frame; therefore, you have to focus on the fabric. Fortunately, you can find bean bag chairs in different types of fabrics. Each fabric has its own qualities. Vinyl is a durable and common material. It may feel sticky and warm during hot days. If you are living in a hot climate, avoid getting vinyl bean bag chairs. Cotton may be a suitable substitute for vinyl, and it is breathable and comfortable. This material is not durable and resistant to stains. With kids and pets in the home, you can’t choose bean bag chairs. Polyester is another fabric with several benefits. It is economical and durable for homeowners. The expensive polyester may come with special coatings for stain-resistant, mold-resistant and water-repellent qualities. Moreover, polyester looks cheap. Leather is a durable fabric with a luxurious feel. It is expensive and needs proper maintenance. Moreover, microsuede is soft, comfortable and luminous-looking. Similar to cotton, it is difficult to deal with microsuede with stains and spills. Shape of Bean Bag Chair In the past, these were available in round shape, but it has different styles. Nowadays, plenty of shapes are available to fit your space and preferences. If you have limited space in your room, choose a rectangle bean bag chair. Moreover, the sofa like shapes can give an exclusive look to your bean bags. These add a unique element of comfort and fun. An oversized bean bag is suitable for a large space. It will decrease the emptiness of your space. On oversized bean bag chairs, you can rest your legs and bags comfortably. For tall loungers, it will be a suitable option. Best Places for Bean Bag Chairs By using a bean bag as an accent piece of your bedroom, you can decrease its chances of wear and tear. Consider the theme of your room while selecting a bean bag. Make sure to choose a durable and comfortable fabric. Moreover, you can buy a bean bag chair for children’s room. Polyester bean bags are suitable for kids room. For your gaming room, you will need a durable bean bag with lots of filling. You have to select a safe filling for your bean bag. If you have pets and children around, you can avoid polystyrene beads or bead beans. These may increase the chances of safety hazards. Avoid an easy to tear bean bag because these can increase choking hazards. Recyclable or wood shavings are pet-friendly options. Focus on the construction of a bag to ensure tight stitching.
