Over 100 new council homes have been approved as part of Edinburgh’s major regeneration of Fountainbridge. Formerly the site of the Fountain Brewery, the huge number of new homes for social rent will feature in a 49,000 square metre redevelopment overlooking the Union Canal. The area will be transformed as
4D BIM has long been hailed as the ‘magic bullet’ for project planning within digital construction, yet outdated perceptions have prevented the process from reaching its true potential. Now a new wave of thinking on the concept is revolutionising the sector’s approach. Mark Chapman, Head of Innovation at Elecosoft, explains
82% of UK builders experience mental health problems due to work-related issues, a new study has found. The research was commissioned for Mental Health Awareness Week (15th-21st May) by IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, and the results have been published in the third edition of their annual industry report. It found that
A sustainable timber products specialist which contributes significantly to the circular economy in the Highlands and the Northern Isles has become even more energy efficient after putting a massive solar array on the roof of its production facility into operation. The six-figure initiative means that biomass supplier GMG Energy can
An initial prototype of an all-new compact wheel loader will be one of many stars featured on Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA’s exhibition stand at Plantworx 2023. Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA (Yanmar) will be rolling out the red carpet for its disruptive and class-leading ‘Premium Red’ machines this June at Plantworx
The University of Derby has chosen construction firm Kier to build a new business school in Derby city centre. The new business school is 9317m2 and is planned to include a 233-seat auditorium, a stock market financial trading room, a creativity lab, an extended reality (XR) suite and a range
Westcountry homebuilder Cavanna Homes’ impressive Newton Abbot development – Cavanna @ Wolborough Hill – has been shortlisted in the 2023 Michelmores Property Awards. Cavanna @ Wolborough Hill is one of only four developments in the South West to be recognised by the judging panel in the category ‘Residential Project of the
Over 100 new council homes have been approved as part of Edinburgh’s major regeneration of Fountainbridge. Formerly the site of the Fountain Brewery, the huge number of new homes for social rent will feature in a 49,000 square metre redevelopment overlooking the Union Canal. The area will be transformed as part of a development called Leamington Square – a joint venture between the City of Edinburgh Council as landowner and a partnership between Cruden Homes (East) Ltd and Buccleuch Property. They will deliver around 464 homes alongside landscaping and infrastructure improvements, over 2,700 square metres of retail space supporting the creation of a 20-minute neighbourhood approach and new local jobs. The Council will own 115 homes for social rent and 71 homes for mid market rent as part of the plans and support the delivery of additional, affordable new homes. It will also spearhead the creation of a community growing space and new integrated cycle ways. Over 1,000 cycle parking spaces are planned for the development in total. The Union Canal is a Local Nature Conservation Site and landscaping is planned to create a biodiverse area in harmony with the character of the waterway. Generous use of trees of varying species is also planned while the development will be designed to minimise greenhouse gas emissions and incorporate low carbon technologies, in line with Edinburgh’s ambitious net zero aims. Historic elements of the adjacent North British Rubber Factory will also be preserved and incorporated into the designs. It is envisaged that work will begin in 2024 and be fully built-out by 2027. Councillor Jane Meagher, Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener, said: “For years, Edinburgh has desperately needed more new social housing. This council is determined to tackle that shortfall and I’m delighted that we’ve secured space for over 100 new homes for social rent at Leamington Square. “Just a stone’s throw away from the Union Canal, with great cycle links and amenities on the doorstep, the regeneration of the old brewery site is sure to prove a really popular place to live. “The demand we are seeing for affordable and social homes is only going to increase as our city grows. And, while the future is challenging, together with developers and others we are doing everything within our powers to make it fairer on residents and on our environment with high quality, affordable, sustainable homes.” Carlo D’Emidio, Project Director of Cruden Homes, said: “This is a significant milestone for this flagship new development, which will see the transformation of this former brownfield site in Fountainbridge into a vibrant new community. “Subject to our development agreement with City of Edinburgh Council, Cruden and Buccleuch will deliver highly sustainable, Net Zero homes which will sit amongst a wealth of new amenities and community spaces in the Capital’s newest neighbourhood.” Ewan Anderson, Managing Director, 7N Architects, said: “7N Architects are delighted that planners have approved our latest plans for this new, mixed use, neighbourhood at Fountainbridge in Edinburgh. The development will provide 464 mixed-tenure homes, 30,000 sq.ft of mixed-use space and people friendly public realm which will reinvigorate this important canalside site. We now look forward to taking the project onwards with Cruden Homes, Buccleuch Property and the City of Edinburgh Council.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
4D BIM has long been hailed as the ‘magic bullet’ for project planning within digital construction, yet outdated perceptions have prevented the process from reaching its true potential. Now a new wave of thinking on the concept is revolutionising the sector’s approach. Mark Chapman, Head of Innovation at Elecosoft, explains why the technology is at its ‘genesis moment’ and why it marks a new chapter in digital scheduling and project delivery. The notion of 4D BIM is not a new idea within digital construction – it’s potential to achieve greater precision on construction timelines and minimise financial risk is well known by business leaders and planning teams alike. Yet despite high levels of awareness, the way 4D is currently being used remains fundamentally flawed. A reliance on outdated ‘2D’ processes and a lack of understanding of 3D models as effective planning tools has meant that 4D BIM has a perception problem – it’s no longer being seen to add ‘value’ to construction projects. However, this is all about to change as teams look to ‘actively’ use 4D models to plan and forecast, updating as they evolve, rather than ‘passively’ using the designs as a visualisation tool. It’s an approach that, at its core, is objectively different to common working practices around 4D BIM. Yet despite going against the grain, it’s proving to be a ‘game-changer’ in terms of project deliverables – reducing risk and project overrun whilst increasing bottom lines. 2D tool in a 4D world To understand why passive 4D BIM needs to evolve, we must first take a look at the sector’s current approach to project forecasting and its use of 4D BIM. As it stands, construction teams are still opting for inaccurate planning methods. ‘2D’ Gantt chart-style formats, initially form the basis of 3D models. 4D BIM is then possible by integrating project scheduling information, turning 3D models into detailed planning tools. The issue is that once projects progress, 4D BIM is quickly abandoned in favour of the ‘tried and tested’ but ultimately flawed ‘2D’ format. Should a client then request an updated 4D model further down the line, planning teams must then scramble to obtain a revised version. Previously, this has been a costly and timely exercise – as well as an illogical one. It also means that 4D BIM is reduced to a mere visualisation tool. Not only does this create unnecessary expense for stakeholders, but for planning teams, it overlooks 4D’s ability to understand construction timelines and calculate risk. It’s 4D for the sake of it – or as I prefer to term it ‘Hollywood 4D’. The process of creating 2D Gantt charts can, in itself, take months, depending on the complexity of the project. Major infrastructure projects such as airports or nuclear power stations for example, require the creation of hundreds of data fields, each containing project specifics. This ‘2D’ approach also requires time-intensive manual input from across multiple teams, be it the architect, engineer or contractor. This ‘lo-fi’ approach then fails to record the level of detail and nuance needed at each stage of construction. Staying active This is where what we at Elecosoft call Active 4D® comes into its own. By splitting it into two chains of thought – ‘passive’ and ‘active’, the sector is turning 4D BIM on its head. Passive being the use of a 3D model simply to visualise plans once data has been manually entered. Active on the other hand, takes a more dynamic stance and is fundamentally different. This works by using the 3D model during the entirety of the planning process to ensure that the programme is correct, first time around. It also allows for a deeper level of information to be attached to design plans, using data linked to digital objects for greater oversight and future gazing. In the end, it means greater precision around risk and cost calculations as well as a more informed client, who understands the necessary timeframes for completion. The root of the issue Given that the industry’s approach to project planning and scheduling hasn’t seen meaningful change in nearly a decade, it’s no surprise that widespread project overrun is now standard practice. In fact, a study by Cornerstone Projects, an underground utility provider, found that the main cause of project overrun in 2022 was poor original planning and unrealistic scheduling. What’s more, some nine in ten construction professionals had experienced project delays last year – a rise of 6% since 2016. If the sector is serious about fixing its productivity problems, then methods such as active 4D should be embraced with open arms. It also presents another opportunity – the chance for construction leaders to become early adopters and spearhead this new, innovative approach. By doing so, businesses may be able to ‘unlock’ the answer to time, money and risk, which is stifling construction growth. At a time of wafer-thin profit margins, 4D BIM, or more specifically, ‘Active 4D’, could be the tech they’re looking for. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
82% of UK builders experience mental health problems due to work-related issues, a new study has found. The research was commissioned for Mental Health Awareness Week (15th-21st May) by IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, and the results have been published in the third edition of their annual industry report. It found that 73% of builders experience some form of mental health problem, such as stress, anxiety or depression, every month, and sadly, 45% feel symptoms every single week. Furthermore, 92% say they do not feel comfortable talking about their mental health with others, and only 10% have spoken about it with their friends or family. Across all trades, while financial worries remain among the leading causes of stress, the wider Cost of Living crisis is now the number one concern, with almost two in five (39%) saying it’s affecting their mental health. Almost two in five (39%) workers are now doing extra shifts as a result, risking burnout. The rising cost of materials is now also amongst the main stressors (36%), and tradespeople recently ranked the issue as the biggest challenge facing the industry in 2023. In 2023, the most common cause of stress for builders is the cost of living crisis (44%). The top 10 most common causes of stress for tradespeople are: Unfortunately, despite the benefits of doing so, more than four in five (84%) tradespeople don’t feel comfortable talking to others about their feelings. Just one in six (17%) have spoken to friends or family about their mental health. Furthermore, one in ten (10%) worry what their colleagues would think if they told them what they were going through, and more than a quarter (27%) feel they can’t take time off work for mental health reasons. Builders are the most likely tradespeople to feel stressed or anxious on a daily basis (16%), but overall, mental health problems are most common amongst surveyors. Almost all of those surveyed (98%) say they experience issues at least once a year. The trades that are most and least likely to experience mental health issues at least once a year are: As part of their campaign to raise awareness of mental health amongst tradespeople, IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect are partnering with Basildon Mind, the mental health charity, and is donating over £5,000 to support its vital services. Emma Mamo, Head of Workspace Wellbeing at Mind, said: “In male-dominated industries such as construction, employees are often less willing and able to open up about their mental health and ask for support. This can be problematic because mental health problems often become worse if left untreated, and the consequences can be fatal. “We urge employers to create cultures where employees can speak openly and honestly about their mental health.” Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect, said: “It’s been an incredibly difficult few years for the country, and the current Cost of Living crisis is certainly taking its toll on many people. Our research shows that the trade industry and its brilliant people have been hit hard, and mental health problems are common. “As difficult as it might seem at first, it’s incredibly important that you talk to someone about your feelings, whether that’s your partner, a friend or family member, a colleague, or a professional. This can open the door to getting help and starting to address the problems you’re facing.” To read IronmongeryDirect and ElectricalDirect’s Mental Health in the Trades: 2023 Report, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/research/mental-health-in-the-trades/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A sustainable timber products specialist which contributes significantly to the circular economy in the Highlands and the Northern Isles has become even more energy efficient after putting a massive solar array on the roof of its production facility into operation. The six-figure initiative means that biomass supplier GMG Energy can now move away from the use of expensive and polluting diesel generators for its energy-intensive activities and rely instead on electricity created from the long daylight hours of the north-east of Scotland. The £100,000 installation and commissioning of the new power system has been supported by a £70,000 loan from the Energy Saving Trust, repayable over nine years, and will allow GMG to substantially mitigate its heaviest fixed cost. In addition, the £34,000 introduction of three-phase power for GMG’s electric motors and other heavy loads has been supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise with a 50% grant, and will allow the firm to provide surplus energy to the National Grid. Malcolm Morrison, Director of GMG Energy, said: “The team at GMG is very conscious that it operates in a pristine and beautiful part of the Highlands and everyone is pleased to be able to make a tangible contribution towards keeping it that way. “Now that the solar array – which consists of more than 100 panels which cover the roof of our production shed – is up and running, we can cut back dramatically on fossil fuel consumption and our aim is that solar will, in the near future, be responsible for 100% of our energy needs. “I would like to express my admiration for the efficient, understanding and professional way that Highlands and Islands Enterprise dealt with our application for support and also for the generous terms that the Energy Saving Trust offered to allow us to proceed with this major local initiative.” GMG Energy, which originated on a farm in the Strath of Halladale in Sutherland, processes in the region of 2,000 tonnes of timber a year. It 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 has also recently spent 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. It is on target for turnover of £2 million which it intends to maintain despite the effects of spiralling fuel, transport and labour costs. The supply and installation of the solar array was carried out in a single day by Dumfries and Galloway-based solar specialists RJW Electrical Services, which operates at domestic and commercial premises across the UK. It also maintains and services large scale solar panel farms. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An initial prototype of an all-new compact wheel loader will be one of many stars featured on Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA’s exhibition stand at Plantworx 2023. Yanmar Compact Equipment EMEA (Yanmar) will be rolling out the red carpet for its disruptive and class-leading ‘Premium Red’ machines this June at Plantworx 2023. Get a closer glimpse at all Yanmar units on Stand B-FB10, ranging between its traditional mini excavator models and wheel loaders, to all-new and future-ready prototypes. Conventional tail swing excavators Yanmar’s presence at Plantworx 2023 wouldn’t be complete without its market-leading conventional tail swing excavators, including the urban and landscaping-ready SV26 (2,740kg operating weight / OW). It combines the largest cabin in its class with a 1,550mm width, delivering first-class performance and operator comfort in a surprisingly compact package. It will be joined by Yanmar’s ultra-tough and versatile SV15VT (1,685kg OW), with a unique track frame layout that features three bottom rollers and an extendable undercarriage. It is fully adaptable to the task at hand and rental ready. The SV60-6B (5,655 – 5,685 kg OW) is also making an appearance, which uses technology and innovation to offer the performance of a midi excavator, with the benefits of a compact excavator. Designed to work effectively even in tight spaces – thanks to its 1,970mm width – the SV60-6B also features numerous design touches for operator and comfort (e.g., rear-view camera, adjustable air-suspended seat, progressive ViPPS hydraulic system). All conventional tail swing units will be accompanying their little brother at the show: Yanmar’s smallest conventional tail swing excavator, the SV08-1C (1,035 kg OW). Weighing less than one tonne, this ultra-mini (yet mighty) machine has an undercarriage that retracts from 840 mm to 680 mm, making it ideal for indoor tasks such as renovation or demolition, where it can easily access narrow areas and drive through almost any doorway. The minimum front swing radius with boom swing is 985 mm, and the rear swing radius just 725 mm. Zero tail swing excavators The conventional tail swing units aren’t the only stars of the show – also present is a selection of Yanmar’s timeless zero tail swing excavators, including the ViO27-6 (2,770 kg OW). It’s highly advanced engine with an output of 15.8 kW at 2,500 rpm and excellent weight distribution offer standout-performance and stability. The ViO27-6 will be joined by the efficient and powerful ViO57-6B (5,505 kg OW), with its advanced 28.3kW TNV 4TNV86CT-PBV engine that meets all EU Stage V emission requirements, and electronic controls offering precision power as well as first-rate fuel economy. Completing the zero tail swing excavator trio is the low-emission ViO82 (8,200 kg OW), with a four-cylinder engine that delivers a net power of 39.3 kW at 1,900 rpm, as well as maximum stability and exceptional lifting strength. The ViO82 features direct injection and a common rail system, along with a range of other eco-friendly features to ensure it meets all EU standards for emissions. Tracked and wheeled units Compact tracked carrier C30R-3TV will also be making a red-cladded appearance, which comes mounted on a frame that turns 90° left and 90° right to maximise loading, carrying and unloading performance for operators. With a total width of just 1,390mm, it performs in even the toughest conditions and the smallest sites, and its 360° spin-turn offers greater efficiency and productivity. Despite its compact dimensions, the C30R-3TVpacks an impressive payload of 2,500kg heaped. Yanmar’s B95W wheeled excavator (9,100 – 9,500 kg OW) is also being showcased, with its precise hydraulic system that can transport and position heavy loads with precision. Ideal for moving materials, the B95W has applications that span road construction and horticulture, where the grab bucket is especially useful for loading trucks. It comes with various boom options, three steering modes; and with a road speed of up to 36 km/h, zooms from one job to another. Wheel loader prototypes Last but certainly not least, Yanmar will be giving visitors a sneak peek of its all-new compact V7HW wheel loader prototype – with its clever articulation/oscillation joint. Expected to be formally launched after September 2023, Yanmar’s initial V7HW prototype is based on a new platform that can support both diesel and electric power trains. It does not use rear exterior oscillation, but rather a features clever joint which lowers the height of the machine, meaning it can fit in standard containers and be transported on road more easily. Yanmar invites all attendees to visit Stand B-FB10 at Plantworx 2023, to experience its disruptive and future-ready construction equipment first hand. And with the latest thinking across the compact equipment landscape, there is plenty to look forward to. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Derby has chosen construction firm Kier to build a new business school in Derby city centre. The new business school is 9317m2 and is planned to include a 233-seat auditorium, a stock market financial trading room, a creativity lab, an extended reality (XR) suite and a range of social collaborative study spaces and quiet contemplation areas. The school will also feature a café on the ground floor. The new building is projected to be the study base for more than 6,000 students by 2030 and will provide a link between local businesses and the wider community. Two levels of the building will be open to the public, allowing students, academics, researchers and University staff to work alongside businesses co-located in the school as well as with the wider business community. This will support and nurture growth, knowledge exchange and idea generation. Andrew Bevan, Interim Director of Estates at the University of Derby, said: “The development of the business school is a catalyst for the regeneration of our city hub site. “I’m delighted that we have entered into a contract with Kier to deliver this landmark building, which is part of the University’s broader vision to expand its reach and reputation across the UK and globally.” Colina Wright, CEO of the Union of Students at the University of Derby, added: “As a Union, we are delighted to be involved in this project and are both passionate and committed to ensuring the student voice is reflected throughout. “We have been impressed with discussions about student involvement and wider conversations about giving back to the community through employment and internship opportunities as well as considerations for sustainability and city regeneration. I am motivated by what this project can do for the city but more importantly for our students, during their time at Derby and beyond. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the University and its partners as the project develops.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Westcountry homebuilder Cavanna Homes’ impressive Newton Abbot development – Cavanna @ Wolborough Hill – has been shortlisted in the 2023 Michelmores Property Awards. Cavanna @ Wolborough Hill is one of only four developments in the South West to be recognised by the judging panel in the category ‘Residential Project of the Year (35 homes and under)’ for delivering the finest new housing development in the region over the past year. The development of 26 high-end homes and four converted luxury townhouses, is set on top of Newton Abbot’s exclusive Wolborough Hill and offers far-reaching views over the town, the Teign Valley and Dartmoor. Michael Newman, Director of Land and Design at Cavanna Homes said: “It’s fantastic to have Cavanna @ Wolborough Hill shortlisted in these highly regarded industry awards, especially during our centenary year. “From planning to delivery, this stunning development has been a fascinating project to work on and has shown our ability to construct high-end homes, transform the former Bishop Dunstan School block into modern townhouses, as well as deliver one of the very first self-build units for Teignbridge Council. A huge well done to everyone involved in this scheme and we look forward to the awards ceremony in June.” The spacious three to five-bedroom homes are set within a parkland landscape which has a children’s play park and tennis courts for residents’ leisure, plus footpaths connecting the development to the town centre. Paul Furner, Director of Sales and Marketing added: “We’re incredibly proud of Cavanna @ Wolborough Hill – it’s a well-considered scheme and a brilliant addition to Newton Abbot. We are also pleased to have contributed funds through Section 106 for the provision of affordable housing in Newton Abbot, as well as for the upgrade of facilities at Decoy Country Park.” Now in their 20th year, the awards celebrate the best property, development and construction projects in the South West, completed in the last year. The winners will be announced at the Michelmores Property Awards Gala Dinner and Ceremony on 22nd June 2023 at Sandy Park Conference Centre in Exeter. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
