March 4, 2022

Ball Corporation launches construction of UK’s largest aluminium packaging plant in Kettering…

Local and government leaders, including North Northamptonshire MP, Philip Hollobone, today [4th March] formally launched construction works at Ball Corporation’s new can-making factory at the SEGRO Park Kettering Gateway. With accelerating demand for infinitely recyclable aluminium drinks cans growing fast in the UK and around the world, Ball is investing

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Aver acquires Trebor Developments M6 industrial scheme

Trebor Developments and Seddon Developments have sold their Prime Point 14 speculative, industrial, development to Aver Property Limited Partnership. The site lies one minute from Junction 14 on the M6 Motorway. The two units of 66,628 sq ft and 76,742 sq ft will be constructed during 2022 by Seddon Construction

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Storage Container Experts Call for Industry Fuel Change Preparedness

Storage Container Experts Call for Industry Fuel Change Preparedness

One of the leading worldwide providers of portable accommodation and the secure storage container, Mobile Mini, is asking clients, customers, and industry peers to ensure they are fully prepared to transition fuel requirements ahead of red diesel taxation changes set for next month. Red diesel refers to a normal diesel

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Planning Approval Secured to Build New Homes in Hartlepool

Planning Approval Secured to Build New Homes in Hartlepool

A national housebuilder has obtained planning permission to build a development of 234 new homes on a vacant site at Brenda Road in Hartlepool. Keepmoat Homes, with support from Hartlepool Borough Council and the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, will be building on a partly derelict site which has

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Latest Issue
Issue 322 : Nov 2024

March 4, 2022

Ball Corporation launches construction of UK’s largest aluminium packaging plant in Kettering…

Local and government leaders, including North Northamptonshire MP, Philip Hollobone, today [4th March] formally launched construction works at Ball Corporation’s new can-making factory at the SEGRO Park Kettering Gateway. With accelerating demand for infinitely recyclable aluminium drinks cans growing fast in the UK and around the world, Ball is investing in the new cutting-edge facility to meet the needs of its customers. This new facility will be the largest ever beverage packaging plant in the UK. Set for completion in January 2023, the site will occupy 56,000 sqm, with space to expand production later. In its first year, the plant will be producing over one billion fully recyclable cans and generate 200 local jobs. The multinational can-maker is working with key public services including Job Centre Plus to together level-up employment in the area. A pre-employment programme will develop talent from all local communities for exciting roles at the new plant during 2022 and beyond. A celebration to mark the construction of the plant was attended today by the local MP, local councillors, and community groups. The growth in demand for aluminium cans comes as consumers seek alternatives to single-use plastic, with a recent poll showing almost 80 per cent of people are taking steps to reduce single-use plastic and two-thirds want to do more.[1] Aluminium cans are currently the world’s most widely recycled beverage packaging, with a UK recycling rate of 82 per cent and a European average of 76 per cent. Ball, which has had its climate change plan approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative, is constructing the Kettering plant according to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ Sustainability and Environmental Standards. Other features include a rainwater harvesting system and innovative technology to mitigate machinery exhaust emissions. These innovative technologies will make the Kettering plant the most advanced facility of its type, demanding 20 per cent less energy and 70 per cent less water than traditional can-making processes. The manufacturing industry has long been a major source of employment for Kettering and the surrounding area, with the Ball facility joining a contemporary local industrial community which includes Mercedes-AMG, Siemens and Weetabix. Carey Causey, President, Ball Beverage Packaging Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia (EMEA) said : “As environmental awareness increases, consumers are insisting on more sustainable drinks packaging. This new facility, in one of the UK’s best-known manufacturing locations, will help us to support our customers’ growth, creating fully recyclable cans which can play a role in a truly circular economy and support the local community.” Local MP Philip Hollobone said: “I’m delighted to see this project go ahead. With its rich heritage, the production skills in Kettering are outstanding and it’s great to see a leading international company like Ball join the ranks of our existing manufacturers. Councillor David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration, said: “One of our key priorities is helping to create the conditions to boost the economy in North Northamptonshire and I’m delighted to welcome Ball Corporation to our area as it brings a significant amount of foreign direct investment as well as a facility that is focussed on being as sustainable as possible. This development also brings with it significant employment opportunities to the local area in the sustainable manufacturing sector, which is a welcome addition to the North Northants economy. I look forward to seeing the production lines rolling!” The Kettering facility will be Ball’s third can-making site in the UK, joining established plants in Milton Keynes and Wakefield and taking the new total in the EMEA region to 26. [1] https://www.packagingnews.co.uk/news/environment/single-use/poll-finds-support-refillables-frustration-supermarkets-not-addressing-plastic-pollution-16-06-2021

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HSE focuses on health and safety in the construction industry in Birmingham

With the number of new construction schemes started across Birmingham City Centre almost doubling in 2021[1], the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are sending inspectors out to sites to ensure firms are complying with health and safety regulations, it announced today (Thursday 3 March). As the city prepares to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games in just 140 days’ time, the HSE has noted increased development across the city potentially raising risks for both workers and the public. Sarah Hill, one of the HSE inspectors leading the campaign, commented: “With a high volume of construction sites in the busy city centre, there is inevitably more potential for incidents which can result in life-changing injuries or worse and working environments which can pose respiratory risks and are hazardous to workers’ health and well-being. This week, HSE colleagues and I will be visiting sites across the city to check that employers are managing risk and keeping workers and the public safe. The fatal injury rate in the construction sector is around four times the all-industry rate, while over 3,500 builders die each year from cancers related to their work, so this is reminder to employers that there is no room for complacency or non-compliance.” During a visit, inspectors look to see how companies keep their workers, and anyone affected by the work they do, healthy and safe. In the event that an employer is breaking the law, an inspector may deploy a range of measures such as issuing an improvement notice which allows a minimum of 21 days for the issue to put right or, in the case of the most serious breaches, prosecution. Sarah Hill added: “The majority of work-related illness, injuries and fatalities are wholly avoidable if those responsible for the welfare of their workers follow health and safety guidance and regulation. Construction is a high risk industry, but those that work in it are as entitled as everyone else to go home safe and well at the end of the day.” Health and safety statistics for the construction industry across the UK: 39 fatal injuries to workers in 2020/21 74,000 workers suffering work-related ill health (average over 2018/19-2020/21) 61,000 non-fatal injuries (averaged over 2018/19-2020/21) Four fatalities amongst members of the public.[2]

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Contract agreed for new housing as part of major £1.3billion Granton Waterfront regeneration scheme

Scotland’s largest net zero housing development will see 444 new homes built after Councillors in Edinburgh agreed a new £71 million contract. Part of the City of Edinburgh Council’s major £1.3 billion regeneration of Granton Waterfront, the Western Villages project will be taken forward by CCG (Scotland) Ltd following a competitive tender process. On track to begin construction in mid-2022, Western Villages will offer a mix of one, two- and three-bedroom flats with wheelchair accessible homes and a range of tenure options including social, mid-market rent and homes for sale. The masterplan for the area will take account of the sea views and the nearby parkland, and will focus on active travel, electric car charging points, car club spaces and public transport links. The decision was taken by the Finance and Resources Committee on Thursday (3 March). The City of Edinburgh Council Depute Leader, Cammy Day, said: “Particularly on the back of COP26 and our own 2030 Climate Strategy, approving this contract gives us certainty that that we’ll be able to deliver this major aspect of the Council’s £1.3 billion Granton Waterfront regeneration. Housing will be integral in meeting our net zero ambitions by 2030 and Western Villages will be a gold-standard for other new development across the city. “The wider regeneration project will also create one of Europe’s largest coastal city parks, providing opportunities for residents and visitors to reconnect with the city’s waterfront by offering more areas for leisure and outdoor experiences, civic spaces and sustainable housing.” Convener for the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work committee, Councillor Kate Campbell, said: “The decision by Finance and Resources Committee is great news and will help us deliver this development, which will help us accelerate the delivery of affordable homes. Granton’s regeneration is a key part of our commitment to build 20,000 social and affordable homes by 2027. “The steps we’re taking now to make homes more sustainable will make homes easier and cheaper to heat, which helps us to tackle climate change. But it’s also crucial for tenants, reducing fuel bills at a time where the cost of living crisis is pushing too many people in poverty.” Partnering with CCG (Scotland) and architect Cooper Cromar in the creation of the new housing, the Council is also adopting CCG’s new Net Zero Home housebuilding standard for this build which will support its ambition of achieving net zero by 2030. This standard brings improved insulation, low carbon heating and renewable technology that will help the Council make big strides in building sustainable housing for its residents. Over the next 15 years, 3,500 net-zero carbon homes, a low energy heat network, a primary school, health centre, commercial and cultural spaces, sustainable transport provision and a new coastal park are all planned to be delivered in Granton Waterfront alongside progress underway in growing a cultural and arts cluster.

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Aver acquires Trebor Developments M6 industrial scheme

Trebor Developments and Seddon Developments have sold their Prime Point 14 speculative, industrial, development to Aver Property Limited Partnership. The site lies one minute from Junction 14 on the M6 Motorway. The two units of 66,628 sq ft and 76,742 sq ft will be constructed during 2022 by Seddon Construction Limited and provide high quality, sustainable BREEAM “Very Good” and EPC “A” rated, industrial units for rent in the Staffordshire area. Bob Tattrie, Managing Partner, at Trebor commented: “Prime Point 14, Stafford, is a prime location being only one mile from Junction 14 of the M6. The two mid-size units are on a very established industrial park and will meet market demands, the area suffers from little choice of quality industrial units in this area. We look forward to delivering these”. Ergo Real Estate, on behalf of Aver Property (its JV with NFU Mutual), continues its impressive track record in the logistics sector. “Our flexible and opportunistic approach enables us to be responsive to prospects and capitalise on the growth in this area, securing our position as market leaders”. Martin Jepson, Founding Partner at Ergo Real Estate commented. Ergo Real Estate were represented by Savills, Birmingham office. Trebor Developments and Seddon Developments dealt with inhouse.

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Storage Container Experts Call for Industry Fuel Change Preparedness

Storage Container Experts Call for Industry Fuel Change Preparedness

One of the leading worldwide providers of portable accommodation and the secure storage container, Mobile Mini, is asking clients, customers, and industry peers to ensure they are fully prepared to transition fuel requirements ahead of red diesel taxation changes set for next month. Red diesel refers to a normal diesel that has been dyed to show it is for use on untaxed off-road vehicles or equipment. Historically this distinction would see the fuel achieve a low duty rate, but from 1st April 2022, red diesel will no longer be made available at a rebated rate for most commercial applications. These reforms were announced by the Government two years ago as part of the ongoing task to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Losing tax-free status and business entitlement means viable alternatives to red diesel must be found. These changes will typically affect any business that hires generators, lighting, static & mobile welfare facilities, fuel management services or any other diesel-powered equipment. As with any major industry change, accepting and adapting as soon as possible is usually in the best interest of all involved, which is why the storage container company has acted fast to source new approaches. The company recently sent out correspondence to all customers and partners outlining their approach and advising others to act quickly to ensure a seamless transition with no negative impact endured. Bernard McGovern, Mobile Mini UK Managed Services, said, “To put it simply, it will no longer be legal to use red diesel to fuel most products required on construction projects. This is not a matter of choice and is something we must all adhere to. At face value, existing alternative fuels are costlier, so it will become more essential than ever to work with partners that have a well thought out efficiency strategy and can help ensure customer savings are made elsewhere. “A fundamental way we have maintained our long-standing reputation is by providing bespoke solutions to individual customers and never taking a one-size-fits-all approach, including the correct solution regarding fuel. Mobile Mini will advise all customers on what the best solution appears to be for their needs and will factor in current industry standards to this advice. Ensuring no costly modifications are required for equipment to change over will help make transitions both quick and efficient.” One of the alternative fuels the storage container expert is suggesting to suitable customers is HVO (Hydrated Vegetable Oil) fuel, which is a fossil-free fuel consisting of 100% renewable, biodegradable and sustainable properties. For others, dual power options supplied through the inclusion of a battery pack will be the most appropriate alternative and the business is already working with innovative suppliers that offer the next generation of hybrid solutions. Mobile Mini UK, headquartered in Stockton-on-Tees, has a fleet of over 40,000 portable units for a variety of storage solutions and 16 strategically placed sites throughout England, Scotland and Wales. The company has had an enviable record of zero reportable accidents for over two years and earlier this year furthered its reputation for excellence after being named the GOLD winner of the Customer Experience category at the 2022 UK Business and Innovation Awards. 7% of employees at Mobile Mini are qualified Mental Health First Aiders and the business was proud to support the NHS with units throughout COVID-19, as well as rolling out life-saving defibrillator equipment to all branches and investing in new safety features on an upgraded fleet of crane-mounted trucks.

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Planning Approval Secured to Build New Homes in Hartlepool

Planning Approval Secured to Build New Homes in Hartlepool

A national housebuilder has obtained planning permission to build a development of 234 new homes on a vacant site at Brenda Road in Hartlepool. Keepmoat Homes, with support from Hartlepool Borough Council and the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, will be building on a partly derelict site which has been untouched for the last two years. The site was formerly used by Ford Motors as a dealership in 1997, and will now provide a range of highly accessible new homes for sale, with 36% of the total dwellings allocated for affordable housing, representing double the 18% requirement from the Council. The development will feature a range of 150 private homes for sale, which will comprise of two, three and four-bedroom properties. In addition, 84 two and three-bedroom bungalows and houses will be built for the council to provide affordable housing. “This is a fantastic development which absolutely goes with everything that we’ve been saying over the past few years about the Council intervening, and once again building our own housing stock to provide good quality homes and truly affordable homes for our residents. Since its closure, the Ewart Parsons site has often been a target for anti-social behaviour and this positive development will certainly help to reduce this,” said Councillor Shane Moore, the Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council. As part of Keepmoat Homes’ commitment to employment and opportunities in the region, the new development will both safeguard and create 725 construction jobs. “We are delighted to have secured planning consent along with the Brown Field Grant approval for this challenging site. As well as bringing competitively priced high-quality homes for first time buyers to the town, the scheme will also deliver a significant number of much needed affordable homes. This will include bungalows for older persons or those with disabilities. This £35 million project will also safeguard and create over 700 construction related jobs, which will massively benefit the local community,” added Ian Prescott, North East Land and Partnerships Director. The business has secured a £1.9million Brown Field Grant from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority to assist the project, which will help transform the community and bring economic benefit to the area. Work is due to start on site in March 2022.

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