Legrand UK & Ireland has announced the launch of Incara, a new product range of multi-functional, economic power devices for the modern workspace. With places of work continuing to evolve, the launch of Incara further emphasises Legrand’s dedication to making workspaces meet the needs of all users. Providing easy and
Respected independent developer Dandara has achieved five-star status in the latest Home Builders Federation (HBF) annual New Homes Survey. This marks the third consecutive year the company has achieved this, after entering for the first time in 2020. This news comes following a period of growth for the company, which
Digital transformation continues to open new doors for streamlining processes, innovating faster and improving the customer experience. And, it’s influencing how companies run their asset and facility maintenance operations. Digitising maintenance through computerised maintenance management system (CMMS) and computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) solutions positively impacts the maintenance workforce. Companies are
Commercial developer, Brackley Property Developments (BPD) has secured funding for the construction of a new industrial/warehouse building on a two-acre development site in Northamptonshire. The commercial developer has entered into a full forward funding agreement with specialist property investment firm, Leftfield for the speculative development of the new unit at
Following the creation of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, an industry expert is highlighting the need for increased supply of energy-efficient equipment to help lower emissions and ensure cost-effectiveness. The cabinet reshuffle, which saw Grant Shapps appointed as the UK’s first Secretary for Energy Security and Net
The National Federation of Demolition Contractors [NFDC] has today announced a change in officers at its Annual General Meeting [AGM], having appointed a new CEO, President, and 2nd Vice President. Established in 1941, the NFDC is the driving force behind the evolution of the demolition sector, uniting over 130 contractors
The Chief Executive Officer of Ibstock plc has been recognised for championing sustainability at this year’s East Midlands Leaders Awards (EMLA). The EMLA category of Green Leader recognises regional business figures who are committed to being a ‘force for good’ and use their position to respond positively to climate change
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is calling on all construction workers to help improve fire safety across the industry. Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017 and subsequent inquiry, the industry has worked hard to increase safety standards to prevent such an incident from happening again. One outcome has
The donations were made as part of Esh’s work with Sheffield Housing Company on the Lytton Road development Two new allotments have been created in Sheffield as part of the NHS ‘Green Social Prescribing Places’ initiative thanks to Esh Construction, Sheffield Housing Company and YORhub teaming up to provide funding.
Bellway South London has submitted plans to build 180 new homes in the West Sussex village of Ashington. The housebuilder hopes to deliver the new properties on a plot of land to the west of Ashington CE Primary School, accessed off Church Lane. The proposals include 117 new homes for
Legrand UK & Ireland has announced the launch of Incara, a new product range of multi-functional, economic power devices for the modern workspace. With places of work continuing to evolve, the launch of Incara further emphasises Legrand’s dedication to making workspaces meet the needs of all users. Providing easy and flexible access to power or data sockets, style is at the heart of Incara which presents a vast range of functions and style to suit any interior. Easy to install, Incara is Legrand’s most flexible range of power solutions to date. From flush, in-desk disk-shaped contemporary sockets through to on-desk power and data connections, Incara has been designed to fit within any workplace furniture requirement. The range offers wireless charging, USB Type-A and C inputs and multiple colour schemes, while it can be designed with a mix of international power sockets if required. Additionally, Incara allows companies the possibility to take control on the presentation of the product, with bespoke branding options available. Manufactured from high-quality materials, Incara can fit in with the latest trends to meet the most challenging workplace requirements. This is achieved thanks to its configuration with a vast range of Legrand’s Arteor™ modules, which ensures a stylish, reliable and versatile solution is supplied. Paul Martin, Lead Marketing Manager for Legrand UK & Ireland’s power distribution ranges, said: “We are always searching for ways to manufacture solutions that meet the modern day needs of post-pandemic ways of working. With Incara, we have created a unique proposition for spaces that have desires for a high-end and flexible power solution. Whether being designed for a modern office, library, university or an airport lounge, Incara provides our most stylish and flexible solution to date.” As with all Legrand products, Incara boasts robust and durable qualities, helping to contribute to a more sustainable world. All packaging is made from recycled materials wherever possible, while Product Environmental Profiles (PEP) are available, providing a reference tool to measure the environmental impact of the product. Incara is also CE and UKCA marked, ensuring quality and compliance with legislation. Paul Martin added: “We are confident that Incara not only meets the needs of today’s workers, but it is also futureproofed for ever-evolving technology changes. Our R&D team remain dedicated to manufacturing solutions as sustainably as possible, and with Incara, we have delivered. When you add our renowned customer service commitment to the mix, we are in a unique position to deliver an unrivalled solution to meet the needs of all – whether installers, designers or end users.” The full range boasts eight products, with multiple variations includes: For more information, visit https://www.legrand.co.uk/products/power-distribution/incara/.
Respected independent developer Dandara has achieved five-star status in the latest Home Builders Federation (HBF) annual New Homes Survey. This marks the third consecutive year the company has achieved this, after entering for the first time in 2020. This news comes following a period of growth for the company, which now has notable developments and a proven track record in the Central, Eastern and Southern areas of England, Jersey, Scotland, the Isle of Man and most recently South Wales. The survey is one of the largest of its type in the country with nearly 50,000 people who have recently bought a new build home completing it. It awards housebuilders with a ‘Star Rating’ based on responses to the question ‘would you recommend your builder to a friend?’. For Dandara to have been awarded the maximum 5 stars means that over 90% of its customers would recommend their homes to a friend. Established in 1988, Dandara is an expert at creating homes, which combine design with the highest standards of quality. Its high standards are reflected in its commitment to customers and the service they receive, with its own Customer Charter ensuring its customer ethos remains a key focus for the business and its dedicated, passionate team. Stewart Baseley, executive chairman of the Home Builders Federation said: “To have 90% of consumers recommending you is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the industry’s overwhelming commitment to delivering high levels of customer service. “Despite hundreds of thousands of homes being built each year, this year’s survey shows the vast majority of customers are happy with their purchase and the service provided by their builder. “Homebuilders remain focused on driving improvements in this area and the creation of an independent New Homes Ombudsman and a more robust Consumer Code will support this drive and should lead to even higher levels of customer satisfaction moving forward.” Trevor Dempsey, CEO of Dandara, comments: “To retain our five-star rating for the third year in a row is testament to the customer experience, build product and quality, which has been part of Dandara’s DNA for three decades. “Following controlled expansion over the last couple of years, it is fantastic that our customers have once again recognised the company in this way as they ultimately sit at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be building five-star calibre homes across the UK and are determined to maintain the first-rate quality that Dandara is known for as we continue to grow.” Dandara’s housebuilding arm of the business has achieved remarkable growth over the last couple of years, with offices now in Jersey, Isle of Man, Edinburgh, Tunbridge Wells, Milton Keynes, Braintree, Southampton, and Wales which are focused on delivering good quality family housing in desirable locations. To find out more about Dandara, please visit www.dandara.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Digital transformation continues to open new doors for streamlining processes, innovating faster and improving the customer experience. And, it’s influencing how companies run their asset and facility maintenance operations. Digitising maintenance through computerised maintenance management system (CMMS) and computer-aided facilities management (CAFM) solutions positively impacts the maintenance workforce. Companies are managing key assets differently to improve their operational and production effectiveness, and it’s delivering significant benefits to their bottom line. The digital transformation of maintenance using CMMS and CAFM technology is also helping companies to tackle some of their biggest business challenges in 2023. Let’s take a closer look at how they’re doing this… Driving efficiency in a difficult economic climate Most organisations are battling tough trading conditions. Economic instability, rising operational costs and increased material prices have affected profitability. UK companies have already reported higher goods and services costs, according to ONS research. And the British Chambers of Commerce estimates that three in four firms are likely to put up their prices in 2022 to 2023. In this climate, organisations are looking for ways to reduce costs and increase efficiency. And this improvement drive is pressurising maintenance teams to optimise asset performance and availability. Replacing equipment comes at a cost, which most businesses would prefer to defer until more predictable times. Maintenance teams are being told to prolong the lifespan of existing assets, which means ensuring those assets and their infrastructure are entirely reliable. This is where CMMS software plays a critical role. If an asset breaks down, it could have a cascading effect on the entire operation. Planning when to regularly check and/or maintain a piece of equipment will prolong its lifespan, as maintenance teams can spot issues before they occur. Monthly checks, quarterly maintenance and annual overhauls are reducing failures, increasing machine efficiency, improving productivity, and enhancing the effectiveness of maintenance teams. Of course, managing these programmes is complex work. As a result, forward-thinking companies have moved away from using a calendar or spreadsheet to plan preventative maintenance schedules. Instead, they use digital CMMS platforms like ShireSystem to manage their maintenance teams and regularly check assets. Using automation to address labour shortages Finding skilled people is a major challenge for many companies right now. Make UK (The Manufacturers’ Organisation) estimates that lost productivity due to staff shortages cost British companies more than £7 billion in 2022. In the USA, meanwhile, industry bodies predict 2.1 million manufacturing jobs could go unfilled by 2030. With talented people in short supply, many companies are automating processes to drive production with a reduced headcount. McKinsey research has found that 85% of companies have embarked on digital transformation to increase their operational efficiency. But more machinery increases the workload of maintenance teams. In light of a greater digital investment, operational leaders are looking for ways to better monitor and manage under-prioritised areas such as asset maintenance. Industry leaders are now using CMMS systems with business intelligence tools such as Microsoft Power BI to combine data from their maintenance systems with information from other production systems. This integrated approach allows them to monitor the effectiveness of production lines. CMMS software is also giving maintenance teams greater insight into their workforce, monitoring the effectiveness of shift teams week by week. Gathering this type of data will allow companies to further reduce skills and efficiency gaps, and ensure they are retaining the right employee levels in their maintenance operations. Improving sustainability using digital maintenance software While profitability is a priority in the current fluctuating market, it’s not the only target. Many companies are also focused on reducing their environmental footprint. 81% of consumers would prefer to buy from a sustainable brand, so focusing on green credentials makes good business sense. And maintenance plays an important role in helping firms to lower their carbon footprint. Slicker asset and facility maintenance enables companies to identify inefficiencies and other technical issues quicker. CMMS software solutions can empower maintenance teams to: Implementing CMMS software as part of an overall digital transformation strategy also helps to bring IT and OT closer together. Well-integrated solutions improve data visibility, which enhances sustainable decision-making. It’s an example of how applying technology to business goals delivers a better result. The merging of IT and OT We’ve touched on the close relationship between operational technology and information technology for data collection and analytics. But there are other ways IT can help companies improve asset maintenance. For example, the transfer of data and controls between a CMMS system and an ERP system helps businesses to manage stock and purchasing processes without manual intervention or double keying entries. CMMS software can use data from other digital assets to operate more efficiently, too. Many ShireSystem users tell us that close-coupling IT and OT systems using API technologies improves metrics and process automation. By establishing such connectivity, maintenance becomes a value-driving area rather than a cost centre. Operational teams can demonstrate and report on how CMMS software boosts efficiency, streamlines processes and reduces waste. Improve your asset maintenance with ShireSystem Market conditions and company goals have turned asset maintenance into much more than a routine process. Today, companies can digitally transform their operations to influence how well they run and grow their profits. And operational teams can now be accountable to upper management, shareholders and customers. Even well-established organisations with well-established plans are taking a fresh look at asset maintenance in 2023. Modern systems and processes can help them overcome economic pressures and future-proof their business. Even within our own customer base, a higher number of people are investing in ShireSystem to improve their asset maintenance. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial developer, Brackley Property Developments (BPD) has secured funding for the construction of a new industrial/warehouse building on a two-acre development site in Northamptonshire. The commercial developer has entered into a full forward funding agreement with specialist property investment firm, Leftfield for the speculative development of the new unit at Cockerell Road in Corby. Work has commenced on the development, which gained planning consent from North Northamptonshire Council towards the end of last year. The new 43,000 sq ft unit will contain two dock loading doors, two level access sectional overhead doors and ancillary office space, as well as staff and visitor parking. It is programmed for completion in Q3 2023. Stephen Pedrick-Moyle, managing director of BPD, said: “This is an exciting mid-box development opportunity in a prominent, well located site. The new unit will offer occupiers the chance to secure high quality industrial/warehouse accommodation north of Corby town centre and within close proximity of a large local labour supply. “We are very pleased to further our relationship with Leftfield, following our development of 110,000 sq ft of new industrial accommodation at Leftfield Park in Walsall.” Nico Fourie, chief executive of Leftfield Advisors, said: “Leftfield Fund III continues to accumulate strategic assets in key locations. Our conviction to the sector requires quality buildings, which attract strong covenants. We are delighted to work closely again with BPD on this new project.”Cockerell Road is an established commercial location, with occupiers including Wickes and Andrews Building Supplies. The nearby A6003 provides direct access to junction 7 of the A14 dual carriageway and main arterial routes. TDB Real Estate acted on behalf of BPD and Bampton Satchwell Bull (BSB) acted on behalf of Leftfield. Prop-Search advised the vendor during the original site acquisition process. For all enquiries please contact retained letting agents, Christian Smith at Savills or Oliver Thompson of TDB Real Estate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the creation of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, an industry expert is highlighting the need for increased supply of energy-efficient equipment to help lower emissions and ensure cost-effectiveness. The cabinet reshuffle, which saw Grant Shapps appointed as the UK’s first Secretary for Energy Security and Net Zero, indicates that the construction sector must be prepared for new developments in the UK’s wider industrial energy strategy. This news follows the recent publication of the Net Zero Review from former energy minister Chris Skidmore, which claims frequent shortages in both labour and skills means the UK is missing some net zero opportunities. With the report underlining the need for supply chains to “grow significantly to meet demand over the coming years” and change expected with Schapps’ appointment, Ian Ross, European Building Services & Construction Leader at temporary power and temperature control specialist, Aggreko, is highlighting the role of suppliers in easing the pressures of transitioning towards low-carbon construction. “As noted in the Net Zero report, construction projects are competing for limited labour and materials, which are creating supply chain bottlenecks and placing undue pressure on the sector. To minimise these difficulties while mitigating the impact of rising costs, the sectors supply chain must be bolstered with further energy-efficient equipment provisions,” said Ian. To improve accessibility to new technologies across the sector, Aggreko has invested £150 million in its Greener Upgrades fleet – including boilers, Stage V generators, batteries, chillers, and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). The report also suggests the UK faces a “huge challenge” to meet the skill requirements needed to transition to net zero. Aggreko is therefore highlighting the need for suppliers to provide expert support for the implementation of greener solutions on-site. Ian told us: “Given the industry’s well-documented skills shortage, collaboration with partners to ensure equipment measures align with businesses’ long-term ambitions while tackling the immediate energy struggles, is becoming increasingly important. To support the adoption of greener practices, suppliers should therefore work to provide cost-effective solutions engineered to the individual complexities and needs of each project. “Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades initiative sets out to support the construction workforce navigate their journey to net zero reducing emissions whilst also recognising the cost benefits that can be achieved. Incorporating the right technology is key, but it’s also fundamental to monitor performance and with supplier support determine if and where improvements can be made. For instance, adding a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) or rightsizing generators can reduce operational costs and carbon emissions significantly. We have seen first-hand the impressive carbon and cost savings our customers have gained through switching to a Greener Upgrade solution and are confident these insights coupled with expert advice and proactive support will ensure construction professionals are well-placed to seize the opportunities of net zero.” For more information on Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades initiative, visit: https://www.aggreko.com/en-gb/sectors-and-services/greener-upgrades Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The National Federation of Demolition Contractors [NFDC] has today announced a change in officers at its Annual General Meeting [AGM], having appointed a new CEO, President, and 2nd Vice President. Established in 1941, the NFDC is the driving force behind the evolution of the demolition sector, uniting over 130 contractors to raise industry standards, ensure maximum safety on sites and promote peer to peer learning and engagement. Having led the federation for nearly 20 years, Howard Button will be officially stepping down as CEO of the NFDC from June 2023. During his impressive tenure, Howard has played an integral role for the progression of the Federation, where he has leveraged his own extensive onsite demolition career to spearhead multiple initiatives for the benefit of the entire industry. In stepping down as CEO, Howard will be continuing to support the Federation as National Secretary. Taking over Howard’s role as CEO is Duncan Rudall, previous London and Southern Counties Regional Chairman of the NFDC and President of the Institute of Demolition Engineers (IDE). Boasting extensive experience within the demolition sector, Duncan has made significant contributions to building the image of demolition as a highly skilled, specialist trade, which he will continue to build on as new CEO while driving the Federation forwards. Joining Duncan in leading the NFDC will be John Lynch, newly appointed President, Gary Bishop, remaining Vice President, and Simon Barlow, newly appointed 2nd Vice President. With nearly 50 years of experience within the sector, John Lynch has seen the industry evolve significantly. Having already been integral in a number of important projects for the Federation during his time as 2nd Vice-President, John’s key priority for his presidency is to continue to raise the profile of the NFDC and see its membership grow. A proven and trusted business leader with extensive experience in the demolition sector, Simon is the Managing Director of Rye Group, a leading provider of demolition, remediation and ground and enabling works. Previously Chair of the London and Southern Counties region for NFDC, Simon now plans to champion the importance of sustainability in his new position as 2nd Vice President of the organisation, while also bringing to the forefront the talent and skills crisis and other key issues that sit across both the demolition and construction industries. Discussing the new change in officers, incoming President, John Lynch said: “I am honoured to have been appointed President of the NFDC. Having been part of the industry for 50 years, I have seen the Federation evolve significantly during this timeframe and play a vital role in shaping industry standards and ensuring maximum safety on sites throughout the UK. As the sector continues to evolve, respond to new challenges, and move into a new era, I look forward to working closely with Duncan, Gary, Simon, and the rest of the leadership team and in ensuring continued and positive progression for the Federation. Finally, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Howard. His dedication to both the NFDC and demolition industry as a whole is nothing short of impressive and I am grateful that he will continue to support us as National Secretary in the coming years.” The NFDC’s AGM concluded with several important announcements including the donation of £100,000 to charitable causes over the last 12 months, together with an update of activity from the NDTG, which included a record intake of Trailblazer Demolition Apprentices. Held at the Royal Lancaster, the NFDC AGM was extremely well attended by both contractor members and industry service provider [ISP] members and was followed by its annual NFDC awards ceremony. For more information, visit: https://demolition-nfdc.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Chief Executive Officer of Ibstock plc has been recognised for championing sustainability at this year’s East Midlands Leaders Awards (EMLA). The EMLA category of Green Leader recognises regional business figures who are committed to being a ‘force for good’ and use their position to respond positively to climate change and environmental issues. Joe Hudson was rewarded for his demonstration of leadership on the green agenda as well as his encouragement of positive change within Ibstock’s supply chain and the wider construction industry. Having worked for the leading building products manufacturer since 2018, Joe Hudson has taken Ibstock on a journey towards greater sustainability, ensuring it evolves responsibly. Judges noted Mr Hudson’s role in driving change at Ibstock and the contribution this makes to minimising the environmental impacts of the construction sector as a whole. The award also recognises the many steps he has taken to build a sustainable future for the business. Under Joe Hudson’s leadership as CEO of the FTSE250 listed Ibstock business, the company has benefited from a significant investment programme. This has resulted in the successful delivery of several significant decarbonisation projects. These projects have led to production efficiencies and the adoption of new technologies that will accelerate Ibstock’s path to Net Zero. With Mr Hudson at the helm, Ibstock achieved its Sustainability Roadmap to 2025 ahead of time. As such, the company published its ESG 2030 Strategy in 2022, which has defined a new era of responsible business and serves as an important accelerator in speeding up the pace of positive change. Over the last 5 years, the company has been widely credited for its commitment to raising the bar for sustainable performance across its sector. As such, Ibstock can claim several ‘industry firsts’ and transformational investment projects including: Under Joe’s leadership, Ibstock is now widely credited as leading the way in sustainability within the construction products industry. Emily Landsborough, Head of ESG at Ibstock PLC, commented: “We are all absolutely delighted about this award win for our CEO Joe Hudson. The East Midlands Leaders Award for ‘Green Leader’ is all about strong leadership and the ways in which businesses can act as a ‘force for good’ – this resonates precisely with the way Joe leads Ibstock. Although Joe would be the first to say that this award would not be possible without the wider Ibstock team we all know – and recognise – the enormous role he has played on an individual basis. He has worked so hard to lead different groups of people and inspire others to share his vision for a more sustainable, decarbonised future. “I know that Joe would want to make a particular mention of our long serving Group Sustainability Manager Michael McGowan who retires, after 47 years in the industry, at the end of this week. Michael has pushed relentlessly and worked tirelessly on the green agenda finally finding, with Joe’s leadership, that the business can move quickly to make the changes we need to make positive, transformational change to address climate change. Leadership comes from many places, and we have been lucky at Ibstock to have both Michael and Joe banging the drum!” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is calling on all construction workers to help improve fire safety across the industry. Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017 and subsequent inquiry, the industry has worked hard to increase safety standards to prevent such an incident from happening again. One outcome has been the recognition of a lack of knowledge and adherence regarding fire safety across the industry. To help improve standards CITB, in consultation with the industry, has been developing two new online courses, both related to fire safety. The first course – Fire Safety Awareness in Construction and the Built Environment – has been launched across the UK for workers of all levels and occupations. Although not mandatory, workers are being urged to complete the free eCourse, which offers an overview of basic fire safety awareness in construction and the built environment. Employers are also being asked to direct all workers, staff or subcontractors, to complete the course. It covers topics such as how fires start, grow and spread, as well common sources of ignition and fuel on site, fire prevention and protection measures, safe evacuation and the impact of fire on the environment, communities and individuals. The second eCourse – Fire Safety in Buildings – will be available this summer. The course has been created in collaboration with Working Group 2 and Build UK and is pitched at a higher level than the first course, with the aim of providing industry a greater level of knowledge of fire safety in buildings, following the construction stage. It builds on the FSA course by focusing further on key topics such as how legislation and regulations have changed since the Grenfell tragedy. It also offers guidance on holistic fire safety, fire prevention (materials), protection (passive and active), compartmentation, protected escape routes, workmanship, competence, quality, reporting issues and concerns. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The donations were made as part of Esh’s work with Sheffield Housing Company on the Lytton Road development Two new allotments have been created in Sheffield as part of the NHS ‘Green Social Prescribing Places’ initiative thanks to Esh Construction, Sheffield Housing Company and YORhub teaming up to provide funding. Working in partnership with SOAR Community in Sheffield, a regeneration charity that provides services to improve a person’s health, wellbeing and employability, the donation has funded allotments at Foxhill Medical Centre and Grenoside Medical Centre. The NHS ‘Green Social Prescribing Places’ initiative allows GP’s, health and care practitioners, and local agencies, to refer people to nature-based interventions and activities, such as local walking for health schemes, community gardening and food-growing projects. Megan Ohri from SOAR Partnership said: “We’re grateful to Esh for supporting the development of these community gardens so that we can work with the GP surgeries to support more people via green social prescribing.” Chris Stocks, Practice Manager at Grenoside Surgery, said: “Grenoside Surgery has a long-standing relationship with SOAR in their role as a provider of social prescribing to our patients. One of the areas that the surgery has been interested in is the concept of green prescribing which encourages patients with issues of social isolation to meet socially and undertake projects around gardening. “We were therefore delighted when contacted by SOAR to hear that Esh, who are building new homes in our area, had this as one of their objectives and would be able to support a project at our main Grenoside site. Community Health Partnerships (CHP), owned by the Department of Health and Social Care, is head tenant for 310 primary and community health care buildings across England including Foxhill Medical Centre. Simon McKinna, Community Health Partnerships (CHP) Operations and Relationships Manager at Foxhill Medical Centre said: “We worked with the GP team at Foxhill Medical Centre and SOAR to help set up the project, identifya suitable location with the building owners, facilitate hard landscaping deliveries and access arrangements. We’re pleased to see so many patients involved in the project and the positive impact it’s had on their health and wellbeing.” A donation has also been made to Foxhill Medical Centre’s Art Group which has allowed the project to continue operating for another seven months after it became at risk of closure due to lack of funding. Esh Construction pledged the funding as part of its commitment to YORhub’s, YOR4Good Fund, a community grant initiative which supports economic regeneration projects through schemes awarded through the YORhub construction frameworks. The donations were made as part of the Lytton Road development, a 44-home project being delivered on behalf of Sheffield Housing Company, procured via the YORbuild2 framework. Megan Roberts, social value manager at Esh Construction, said: “We are always striving to support organisations, charities and community groups that work within the local communities surrounding our construction projects. The two medical centres are located just one mile from our site which will allow us to leave a lasting legacy in the area. It has been a pleasure to work alongside Sheffield Housing Company and YORhub on yet another successful project, helping support great charities who make an important difference for people in need.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway South London has submitted plans to build 180 new homes in the West Sussex village of Ashington. The housebuilder hopes to deliver the new properties on a plot of land to the west of Ashington CE Primary School, accessed off Church Lane. The proposals include 117 new homes for private sale and 63 affordable properties available for local people through low-cost rent or shared ownership, with a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments and two, three, four and five-bedroom houses. The project would also include allotments, a sports pavilion, two sports pitches – an artificial turf Multi-Use Games Area and a natural turf pitch – and retained woodland. Following public consultation, a planning application has been submitted to Horsham District Council. Daniel Bradbury, Managing Director of Bellway South London, said: “This site is allocated for housing in the Ashington Neighbourhood Plan and would deliver 180 much-needed new homes to the area. We have been engaging with Horsham District Council and Ashington Parish Council to try to produce a plan that would help meet the specific needs of the local housing market. “This development will provide a wide range of housing for a variety of purchasers including first-time buyers, growing families and people downsizing after retirement. More than a third of the properties being delivered on the development will be affordable homes to allow local people who can’t afford to buy their own home secure a new property close to their support network of family and friends.” As part of the development, Bellway South London would contribute around £2.25 million in Community Infrastructure Levy to improve local services and facilities, with around a quarter of this allocated to Ashington Parish Council. Daniel said: “Bellway is a socially-responsible developer and as such, we see our role as not only to build new houses but also to help better the daily lives of new and existing residents alike, with the Community Infrastructure Levy helping to finance projects which will improve services in the area. “We are aiming to deliver a sustainable development which will embrace its rural surroundings and blend in seamlessly with the existing character of the village. The site will see the retention of a large area of woodland in the west of the site and a tree belt to the north of the development. “The landscaping scheme maintains and enhances the existing mature boundaries and internal hedgerows and trees to provide a green framework and strong sense of place. “This development is designed to encourage residents to connect with the nature on their doorstep with allotments available to help people to grow their own vegetables. In addition, local wildlife will be protected, with bird and bat boxes providing roosting and nesting opportunities.” Bellway South London is building new homes across West Sussex, Surrey and South London. More information is available at https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/south-london. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
