Leading civil engineering and construction contractor Spencer Group has been appointed by Associated British Ports (ABP) to be part of a major national investment programme. Spencer Group has been appointed to the Industrial Buildings Framework Contract to build large-scale industrial buildings for ABP in four out of five regions across
The 50 most inspiring projects from the past 50 years have been revealed by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession – in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Entitled ’50 Projects for a Better Future’, the list features iconic projects from around the
Sustainable biomass supplier and timber products specialist GMG Energy has made a strategic purchase of a substantial swathe of forest in the far north-east of Scotland to protect future supply and increase its resilience to market shocks. The resource-rich company, which originated on a farm in the Strath of Halladale
Bullet Express, one of the UK’s fastest-growing logistics, distribution and storage businesses, has opened a new 67,000 sq ft logistics centre at Westway Park, Renfrew, Scotland’s largest fully enclosed industrial distribution and office park. The new logistics centre will see Bullet Express increase its storage and distribution capacity by 14%,
Renters looking to spruce up their space are being offered expert advice and temporary decorating tips on how to do so without damaging the property. The moving experts at LOVESPACE are advising renters on the best ways to decorate their properties without risking the loss of their deposit. Rental agreements can differ
Keepmoat Homes has completed the purchase of a former factory land which built the iconic Spitfire planes used during World War II, from British heritage brand and automotive manufacturer, Rolls-Royce. Permission was granted by Derby City Council in June of 2020 for the housebuilder to deliver 372 one-and two-bedroom apartments
One of the common problems faced by any company that transports goods regularly is the issue of safety and security. Most companies rely on their trucks for efficient operation since they’re known to be reliable and durable vehicles. However, with the increasing demand for goods transportation in the international arena,
Leading civil engineering and construction contractor Spencer Group has been appointed by Associated British Ports (ABP) to be part of a major national investment programme. Spencer Group has been appointed to the Industrial Buildings Framework Contract to build large-scale industrial buildings for ABP in four out of five regions across the UK where the port owner operates – South East and North West England, Scotland and Wales. ABP is the UK’s leading ports group and its network of 21 ports supports 119,000 jobs and handles about a quarter of the UK’s seaborne trade, worth £150bn annually. The framework will run for five years, with scope to extend to a further two years. ABP plans to invest a significant value across the four regions with specific projects determined by port requirements in each location. The success for Spencer Group’s industrial division follows an extensive competitive tendering selection process involving both regional and national contractors across the UK. Spencer Group Off Site Construction Director Richard Green-Morgan, who leads the industrial division of the business, said: “We’re delighted to be appointed to this framework. This is a very significant contract for us and a positive continuation of our strong working relationship with ABP. “Being appointed by ABP in each of these regions is further evidence of our excellent reputation as a leading provider of multi-disciplinary engineering and construction projects across the UK. “It will also strengthen our presence and position these locations, undoubtedly creating opportunities to work with new partners and SMEs to jointly support ABP’s ambitious plans for the future. “We’re looking forward to getting started and working with ABP on these important projects.” Spencer Group has undertaken a number of schemes over the past year providing consultancy and construction services to develop and support a variety of capital projects in various ports. Spencer Group Managing Director Gary Thornton said: “Our appointment to the Industrial Buildings Frameworks Contract is very positive news for Spencer Group. “The framework is yet another example of our developing relationship with ABP, which started over 30 years ago. Our ability to provide technical support, design and delivery capabilities to provide new and enhanced existing assets and infrastructure mean we are able to support ABP’s investment decisions and meet their customer demands. “We’re proud of the faith shown in us by ABP and are looking forward to starting work under this new framework to deliver exceptional value to ABP and their customers.” Spencer Group delivers innovative engineering and construction solutions in the transport, infrastructure, materials handling, energy and industrial sectors. To find out more about the company’s work, visit www.thespencergroup.co.uk.
The 50 most inspiring projects from the past 50 years have been revealed by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession – in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Entitled ’50 Projects for a Better Future’, the list features iconic projects from around the globe and across the fields of construction and engineering, technology, healthcare, sports and nature, arts and media. More than 600 projects were nominated for inclusion in the list by a panel made up of APM members, board members and industry experts. Projects were selected based on the transformative impact they have had on society, the economy and environment since their launch within the past 50 years. Canary Wharf, the Channel Tunnel, the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Angel of the North, the Eden Project, Guggenheim Bilbao Museum, Øresund Bridge, Wikipedia, the World Wide Web, the UK Covid-19 vaccine rollout, In vitro fertilisation (IVF), the Hubble Space Telescope, the Large Hadron Collider and Mars Perseverance Rover all make it onto the list. The full list including project descriptions is available at apm.org.uk/50projects Professor Adam Boddison, Chief Executive of APM, says: “To mark our 50th anniversary we wanted to celebrate and recognise the impact that projects have had on the world, and the important role that project professionals play in embracing change and opportunity. The 50 projects on this list all have their own legacy in the impact they have had on society, the economy and environment, as well as acting as a catalyst for other projects which followed and will follow them in the future.” The 50 projects by sector: Construction and Engineering: Hong Kong International Airport – 1998 The Channel Tunnel – 1994 The Øresund Bridge – (Sweden/Denmark) – 2000 Canary Wharf – London – 1991 The Thames Barrier – London – 1984 The Falkirk Wheel – Scotland – 2002 Maeslant Barrier (Netherlands) – 1997 Unisphere (United States) – 2018 Madrid Metro Extension – 1995-2003 The Peace Bridge (Northern Ireland) – 2011 Sports, Media and Arts: Angel of the North – 1998 Guggenheim Bilbao Museum – 1997 BBC Children in Need – 1980 Hamiliton – 2015 Tate Modern – 1994 FIFA Women’s World Cup – 2019 London Olympic and Paralympic Games – 2012 Parkrun – 2004 Forest Green Rovers – 2010 Healthcare and Education: HIV antiretroviral therapy – Mid 1990s EPS Electronic Prescribing Service – 2013 Global Polio Eradication – 1988 HPV Vaccination – 2008 Human Genome Project – 1990-2003 In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) – 1978 (first IVF baby born) Tackling Poverty in Renfrewshire Programme – 2014 Vaccine taskforce & development – 2020 Educating girls in the Swat Valley – 2013 Netherlands cycling revolution – 1970s Nepal earthquake response – 2015 Science and Nature: International Space Station – 1998 Howdon and Bran Sands Gas to Grid plants – 2012 Hubble Space Telescope – 1990 Kielder Reservoir – 1982 Large Hadron Collider – 2008 The Mars Perseverance Rover – 2020 Svalbard Global Seed Vault – 2008 The Eden Project – 2001 Cloning of Dolly the Sheep – 1996 The Voyager spacecraft programme – 1977 Technology: Amager Bakke – 2017 Global Positioning System (GPS) – 1973 The PACUNAM Lidar Initiative (discovery of Mayan cities) – 2016 Landsat – 1972 Raising the Mary Rose – 1982 The Train Protection and Warning System (TPWS) – 2003 The Eurofighter Typhoon – 1983 Wikipedia – 2001 World Wide Web – 1989 SWIFT banking service – 1977 To see the full list of APMs ’50 Projects for a Better Future’ visit apm.org.uk/50projects
Sustainable biomass supplier and timber products specialist GMG Energy has made a strategic purchase of a substantial swathe of forest in the far north-east of Scotland to protect future supply and increase its resilience to market shocks. The resource-rich company, which originated on a farm in the Strath of Halladale in Sutherland, has acquired 400 acres of softwood-planted land at Quintfall Forest, towards the east coast south of John O’Groats. The forest contains 21,000 tonnes of productive timber, very roughly equivalent to 90,000 tree-sized logs. The sawmill at GMG Energy’s production facility currently processes in the region of 2,000 tonnes a year, meaning that the purchase has created security of supply for the foreseeable future. As a major plank of its business model, the company is committed to replacing every log of timber that it uses, and plants 10,000 new trees a year, which grow to maturity in 35 years. It far exceeded this target last year, planting in the region of 20,000 trees. Malcolm Morrison, Director of GMG Energy, said: “It has been our policy up until now to buy our raw materials on the open market, from established local suppliers, but this deal will ensure continuity of supply in an increasingly volatile environment. “Quintfall is just over 20 miles from our base of operation at Bighouse Farm, so it will not add to the road miles burden and the acquisition will chime with our wish to invest locally and provide a reliable resource for other local companies. “The purchase will not affect our ongoing planting programme, as replenishment is the key to sustainability, and we will continue to try to reduce our impact on the environment by not wasting any of the product with which we work.” At the same time as the Quintfall purchase, GMG Energy has invested £150,000 in state-of-the-art sawmill equipment which takes its larger timber and processes it into posts, rail, cladding and purlins, or structural roof members. It also plans a spend of in the region of £100,000 on timber treatment equipment which will open up new markets among construction companies and farm businesses which require treated and stress-tested products. Carbon-aware GMG Energy is also investigating the possibility creating heat and steam from wood waste to turn a turbine in order to self-generate the electricity it uses and to further minimise its environmental impact. GMG Energy is sited at Bighouse, where Mr Morrison’s Sutherland-born mother still lives in the farmhouse. The company increased turnover in the year to August 2021 to just over £2 million, up from £1.7 million the previous year.
Bullet Express, one of the UK’s fastest-growing logistics, distribution and storage businesses, has opened a new 67,000 sq ft logistics centre at Westway Park, Renfrew, Scotland’s largest fully enclosed industrial distribution and office park. The new logistics centre will see Bullet Express increase its storage and distribution capacity by 14%, creating job opportunities for warehouse and inventory personnel within the local area. The facility at Westway, which provides Bullet Express with easy access to the M8 and the new road link to Glasgow Airport, will have capacity for 12,000 pallets – 10,000 for racked storage and 2,000 for floor storage. The new facility in Renfrew is the latest addition to Bullet Express’ rapidly expanding network which includes: Bothwell, Express Pallet Centre and HQ totalling 200,000 sq/ft. – network distribution. Baillieston, flagship Storage Centre totalling 210,000 sq/ft. – racked and floor storage. London Road, Glasgow Storage Centre, totalling 32,000 sq/ft. – high-bay racked storage. Glespin, Storage Satellite, totalling 50,000 sq/ft. – floor storage. Established more than 30 years ago, Bullet Express is a full service logistics business with 150 employees providing a European road freight service, worldwide air and sea freight support and stacked storage for customers. Westway, owned by Canmoor and Ares Management Corporation (ARES) provides industrial, warehousing, distribution and office space for companies of all sizes across a number of industries. David McCutcheon, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Bullet Express, said: “With our expanding client base, we simply needed additional storage space to facilitate this demand and business growth. Our new centre at Westway offers quality secure space, along with good eaves height, which enables optimum storage space. “The location also offers excellent connectivity, particularly allowing for easy access to the M8 and the new road link to Glasgow Airport. “We are installing racking throughout the site to accommodate 12,000 pallets of which 10,000 will be racked storage and 2,000 floor storage.” Toby Saul, Asset Manager of Canmoor, added: “The new team was established in March this year and we are delighted to welcome Bullet Express as our first new occupier. “Bullet Express is an excellent addition to the quality occupier mix here at Westway and we wish David and the team every success with their expansion plans. “We will continue to asset manage the park and continue the ongoing investment programme, which includes the refurbishment of Block J and Unit G1, with further infrastructure improvements and projects to be announced shortly.”
Renters looking to spruce up their space are being offered expert advice and temporary decorating tips on how to do so without damaging the property. The moving experts at LOVESPACE are advising renters on the best ways to decorate their properties without risking the loss of their deposit. Rental agreements can differ from landlord to landlord and it’s fair to say that some are more willing to agree to cosmetic changes than others. For those seeking to make home improvements but are struggling because of limits within their tenancy agreement, there are plenty of ways to make temporary changes without damaging the property. From stick on flooring to removable radiator covers, the options are endless when it comes to adding personality to rented properties. “It’s important that before you make any changes to a rented property ask your landlord for permission – no matter how small the decision may seem,” said a spokesperson for LOVESPACE. “There is often an assumption that landlords won’t let you make changes to the property but this isn’t always the case. Whether it’s just a lick of paint or a nail in the wall, it’s always worth asking. If the landlord thinks it might make their property more valuable then they’re more than likely to say yes. Even if your landlord does refuse any changes to the property, there are plenty of ways to spruce up your space with simple furnishings.” Here are LOVESPACE’s decorating tips on sprucing up a rental property: Adhesive strips When you want to avoid banging nails into the wall and potentially causing damage, adhesive strips could be the answer. These strips are perfect for picture frames, holding LED lights in place and even keeping cables organised. If you’re worried about hanging a larger item like a mirror it’s best to pair it with a statement piece like a tall vase and lean it against the wall. This might not seem like the most glamorous method but it can make for an eye-catching feature that is different from the norm. Soft furnishings Cushions, curtains and throws are perfect for adding pops of colour to any room – although they are the most obvious choice. Choosing bed linen, bathroom towels and even tea towels to match the surrounding area are more unique ways to add depth to a room. Try matching bed linen with the shades of the carpet or curtains to create a sleep haven. Removable wallpaper and flooring When you don’t have the option of painting walls or changing flooring, it can feel difficult to give the property any personal touch. This is where the beauty of stick-on wallpaper and flooring comes in. The adhesive backing allows easy application and removal on most surfaces. With online and instore retailers stocking designs from boho chic and art deco, to floral and industrial, there is a solution to bring personality into any property. Change handles When renting it’s unlikely you’ll be able to make major changes to key areas of the house like the kitchen. So, if the kitchen is looking dated it can easily be transformed into an inviting space by simply changing the handles. Chrome details can add a modern edge to kitchen cupboards and should be fairly easy to change using a screwdriver. Add greenery Plants can quite literally breathe new life into a lacklustre room. Choose peace lilies which can thrive in low light conditions (perfect for flats) or opt for some succulents which require little maintenance. Not only can plants make a space more aesthetically pleasing but they also have lots of health benefits too. They can purify the air, relieve stress and improve concentration – perfect for those who work at home. Radiator covers In some cases, not even a lick of paint can save an ugly radiator, so that’s why it can be best to cover them up completely. Radiator covers can transform a metal eyesore into a unique focal point of the room. Most wood covers can slip over a radiator without the need for any DIY. These covers can get expensive depending on the size and material, so for a more affordable alternative opt for a radiator wrap instead. Rugs Whether you have a cold vinyl floor or just a carpet that needs covering up, rugs are one of the best temporary decorating tips. As well as covering up any unwanted flooring mishaps, rugs are a great way of zoning certain areas. Use circular rugs under circular dining tables to make them more inviting and help to separate the space from the kitchen. Shop secondhand When moving into an unfurnished property, there is an opportunity to add personality to every room. Buying items brand new can be expensive, whereas you can pick up second hand items for a more affordable price and sometimes even for free. Online marketplaces are a goldmine for preloved furniture and there are some unique pieces just waiting to be found. Clear the clutter If the furniture in your new property doesn’t quite match your decor plans or you’ve simply got too many belongings, popping it into storage can help to provide you with a blank canvas. Storing winter clothes, unwanted furniture and other seasonal items is a great way to achieve a minimalistic look and one of the easiest decorating tips. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction and Property News
Keepmoat Homes has completed the purchase of a former factory land which built the iconic Spitfire planes used during World War II, from British heritage brand and automotive manufacturer, Rolls-Royce. Permission was granted by Derby City Council in June of 2020 for the housebuilder to deliver 372 one-and two-bedroom apartments and two-, three- and four-bedroom homes that makes up part of the Council’s wider Osmaston Regeneration Area project and aims to reinvigorate the vacant land that was formerly occupied by Rolls-Royce for 100 years. In keeping with Keepmoat Homes’ commitment to providing high quality and affordable homes, the housebuilder is also working closely with Places for People in allocating a number of additional affordable homes alongside the delivery of 12 bungalows which will be available to rent with Derby Homes. “Our plans for 372 new homes and apartments align with Derby City Council’s objectives of regenerating the Osmaston area and contributing to growing housing market which remains their utmost priority. Keepmoat Homes is honoured to continue the legacy of this historic piece of land that played a vital role in Europe’s victory over 70 years ago, and we’re working hard to ensure that this history is remembered for generations to come,” commented Shaun Fielding, Regional Managing Director at Keepmoat Homes. The aptly named Marble Square development, which was inspired by suggestions from pupils of the local school, Ashwood Spencer Academy, will encompass the previously converted and historic Marble Hall which now houses office and commercial space. Plans also call for a central public square, designed specifically to align with the stained-glass window within the Marble Hall to honour the work Rolls-Royce carried out on the Spitfire fighter planes during WW2. “This is an exciting milestone in developing a site that has been vacant for around 15 years. The Council has been working in partnership with Keepmoat Homes and the local community for a number of years to bring regeneration of this site to fruition, and we’re delighted to see the transfer of land to enable the next stage of work,” said Councillor Steve Hassall, Cabinet Member for Regeneration. Work on the site began last year, after considerable remediation works have been completed, with the first homes due to be available for purchase this August. The completion of Marble Square is due in 2028/29. Building, Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction and Property News
One of the common problems faced by any company that transports goods regularly is the issue of safety and security. Most companies rely on their trucks for efficient operation since they’re known to be reliable and durable vehicles. However, with the increasing demand for goods transportation in the international arena, there’s also an increased need for load restraint equipment to ensure that cargoes remain secure while in transit. Many companies are vulnerable because of poor load restraint equipment in their cargoes. There are many ways to evade this challenge, including using chains, ropes, and lashing equipment. You can find out more about essential equipment for your cargoes, but, before that, here are some advantages of having them installed in your vehicle and how you can benefit from them: To Reduce The Chances Of A Cargo Falling Off The primary purpose of load restraint equipment is to reduce the chances of cargo falling off a vehicle during transportation. You can use load restraint equipment to secure cargo in vehicles, such as trucks or trailers. This way, you can be guaranteed safe transit no matter how long the journey is or rough the roads are. This allows you to keep up to promises and avoid disappointing clients. Without the equipment, you risk getting into an accident with the goods in the truck, which may cost you more and put your finances at risk. The Two Types Of Load Restraint Offer Different Abilities There are two types of restraints in the logistics and transportation industry—rigid and non-rigid. Rigid restraints offer more strength, providing greater vehicle and load integrity. In contrast, non-rigid restraints are best when transporting sensitive materials that you, your driver, and everyone in charge of delivery must handle cautiously. These are also known as soft tie-down straps and are usually made with woven fabric or webbing. These types of straps are typically easier to install than rigid restraints because they’re flexible and can be used on various vehicles. However, they also offer less strength, which means they’re not always ideal for heavier loads. Rigid cargo securement systems, on the one hand, use metal links and hooks to connect your cargo tie-downs into loops around your entire load area. They’re generally more expensive than their non-rigid counterparts, but offer superior protection from flexing under pressure. You can use them for items on board your trailer rigs, like lumber or any other heavy load. You can also use them if you’re moving construction items to construction sites. They’re more appropriate in ensuring utmost safety during the process and preventing any casualty that may complicate your work. They Allow Safe Transportation Load restraints are still used as anchors and sliding winches. However, some vehicles come with standard features that ensure you can safely and securely transport any item to any destination. You can hire an expert to help you install these tools in vehicles to make them safe for transportation. They’re available in different sizes, shapes, and forms. They also come with different weights, depending on your needs. These needs may range from transporting motorcycles, boats, cars, trucks, or livestock, among others. Note that even if you’re transporting glasses, you have non-rigid load restraints. All you need to ensure is that you choose the suitable material for your cargo and keep it in the appropriate place. You can ship these goods through rail or ocean routes— what matters is that your goods are well tied and fastened to the restraint materials. They Provide Extra Protection Even In Transit It’s essential to have quality load restraint equipment when you’re transporting goods because they provide your goods with extra protection while they’re in transit. The equipment will keep the load inside the truck intact and prevent it from sliding or shifting during transport. This will help ensure your cargo arrives at its destination sans any damage. Many types of quality load restraint equipment are available on the market today, including ratchet straps, tie-downs, cargo nets, and any other thing you need for an international shipment. Each type of product has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on what type of vehicle you plan on using for transportation purposes and the available space in the vehicle. Some products provide safety even if you bump into potholes; some don’t. You, therefore, need to be sure what loads you want to package, as well as the best restraint equipment that’s suitable for them. You may need to consider different options if you’re flying these goods across cities, states, or continents. Conclusion Load restraints help you easily secure your goods while transporting goods within a country or internationally. You get to fasten such products to your trucks or trailers, and have them reach their destinations without any damage. The key to doing this effectively is knowing which load restraint is necessary for your requirements.
