A guide to understanding construction options for low-carbon developers. Timber Development UK (TDUK) – the UK’s trade association for the timber supply chain – has launched a new guide to understanding options for timber construction. Aimed at developers, investors and policy makers, Timber Typologies outlines the variety of build options
Work has been completed on a new 66-home affordable development in Doncaster. The work was undertaken by a partnership between ESH Construction, Together Housing Group and Housing 21. The site, located in Askern, includes a mix of general housing and retirement living housing. Residents are now moving into 56 two,
The University of Manchester has unveiled the next phase of plans to provide additional student accommodation on the Fallowfield campus. The major redevelopment will include Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall. The University is progressing an outline planning application which would replace existing bedspaces with up to 3,300 new
In our modern, fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the quality of the air we breathe. However, with the majority of our time spent indoors—around 90% according to recent studies—it is essential to recognise the impact of indoor air quality (IAQ) on our health and well-being. With Clean Air Day
A stalwart of the electrical industry has been recognised for his tireless contribution to the sector with Honorary Membership of SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade association. David Smith, a Past President of the organisation and a former representative of the Glasgow and West of Scotland Branch, was accorded the exclusive
Working with GAP Hire Solutions, Kier Highways Solutions (KHS), a national surface treatments provider, has electrified its entire forklift fleet. This forms part of KHS’ efforts to embed sustainable practices throughout its operations, following an audit of Wymondham Plant, its bituminous materials manufacturing arm. Located on a 7-acre site in
A guide to understanding construction options for low-carbon developers. Timber Development UK (TDUK) – the UK’s trade association for the timber supply chain – has launched a new guide to understanding options for timber construction. Aimed at developers, investors and policy makers, Timber Typologies outlines the variety of build options and methodologies available for low carbon timber construction and details the sort of building types each method is suitable or appropriate for. Written with Waugh Thistleton Architects, one of the leading ‘timber first’ architects’ practices in the UK, the book is intended as a primer or beginners guide to the variety of timber solutions available. It will help decision makers understand the options open to them and make the right choices to deliver the best outcomes. David Hopkins, chief executive at Timber Development UK, said: “Timber is vital when it comes to decarbonising construction. However, if it is going to realise its full potential, we can no longer talk in simple generic terms about this material. We need to be specific about the systems and approaches available and the benefits and risks each of these can bring. “We can’t make progress if clients, architects and policy makers are talking at cross purposes about what they mean when they talk about building in timber.” Alastair Ogle, associate at Waugh Thistleton Architects, and one of the lead authors of the book, said: “We still see enormous amounts of misinformation and misunderstanding when it comes to timber. Clients, local authorities and even insurers don’t seem to understand that all of these things they refer to as “timber” are in fact a wide range of completely different build systems with very different properties. “We’re committed to helping design and enable a low-carbon building revolution, but that will only come when we increase understanding across the market. We hope this will in turn increase confidence in permitting, designing, insuring and constructing the low-carbon timber buildings of the future.” Timber Typologies is the first in a trio of books aimed at increasing understanding options among the decision makers. It will be accompanied by Timber Policy – a guide to the variety of ways countries and city authorities are encouraging timber construction around the world, and Timber LCA, examining comparisons of lifecycle analysis between buildings constructed of different materials. You can download Timber Typologies for free from the Timber Development UK website.
Work has been completed on a new 66-home affordable development in Doncaster. The work was undertaken by a partnership between ESH Construction, Together Housing Group and Housing 21. The site, located in Askern, includes a mix of general housing and retirement living housing. Residents are now moving into 56 two, three and four-bedroom homes and 10 two-bedroom bungalows which have been delivered for Together Housing. All properties include front and rear gardens as well as parking facilities. Commenting on the completed works, Simon Woodward, Operations Director at ESH Construction, said: “Askern is a land led scheme which has been long in the making. It was jointly developed by ESH alongside two clients to meet identified housing needs in the area and create a community which fosters inter-generational living. “As a local contractor, we have maximised the benefits of our local supply chain by re-investing more than £7.4 million into the Yorkshire region throughout the overall scheme. We are delighted to reach completion and handover these new homes to Together Housing.” Reflecting on the project, Kevin Ruth, Together Housing Group Chief Executive, said: “I’m delighted to see these new homes in Askern, which will help to meet the need for affordable housing in the area. From the bungalows to the four-bedroom houses, these high-quality homes offer attractive housing options for a wide-variety of residents. “I’d like to thank everyone involved from the early stages who have helped to bring this project to fruition. As a Group, we’re committed to working with partners to invest in homes and communities.” The development in Doncaster has been positively received by the local council. Praising the work, Deputy Mayor and Portfolio holder for Housing and Business at City of Doncaster Council, Cllr Glyn Jones said: “A further 66 new affordable homes is another welcome boost to Doncaster. Being able to afford a home in an area with close proximity to essential facilities will be an attractive proposition to many of our residents and I am delighted that so many will now be able to make this a realistic possibility.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Manchester has unveiled the next phase of plans to provide additional student accommodation on the Fallowfield campus. The major redevelopment will include Owens Park, Oak House and Woolton Hall. The University is progressing an outline planning application which would replace existing bedspaces with up to 3,300 new bedspaces. The redevelopment will be delivered in multiple phases and includes the demolition of Owens Park Tower which has been closed for several years. The work does not affect students currently living in halls at the Fallowfield campus and prospective students can continue to apply for existing halls as normal. The University has launched an accompanying public consultation to gauge the opinions of students, staff and local residents. The public consultation will close on the 30 June, prior to the submission of the outline planning application to Manchester City Council. Commenting on the plans, Dr Simon Merrywest, Director for the Student Experience, University of Manchester said: “The proposals for the redevelopment of this area of the Fallowfield campus will strengthen the University’s ability to offer a world-class, supportive student experience in well-located, good value, quality accommodation. This redevelopment provides an opportunity to widen the choice and supply of student bedrooms whilst ensuring they are fulfilling the requirements of future students studying at the University. “Through creating these welcoming and inclusive spaces, it helps create a positive sense of place for our students as they live, learn and thrive within the surrounding community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In our modern, fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the quality of the air we breathe. However, with the majority of our time spent indoors—around 90% according to recent studies—it is essential to recognise the impact of indoor air quality (IAQ) on our health and well-being. With Clean Air Day 2023 fast approaching on 15 June, the team at AICO Homelink wants to shed light on the significance of Indoor Air Quality and explore innovative solutions and initiatives that can help us improve the air we breathe indoors. HomeLINK is well placed to comment as it provides connected home solutions for more than 1,000 housing providers with over 220,000 connected devices providing safer, healthier homes for approximately 80,000 social residents. Internet of Things (IoT) for real-time data on air quality Unlike outdoor environments, the air within our indoor spaces does not undergo the same natural renewal and replenishment processes. Substances released indoors accumulate at a much higher rate, intensifying the effects of our activities which release air pollutants. These include emissions from household cleaning products, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by furniture and building materials, the by-products of cooking and heating systems, or increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) from human and animal respiration, these factors contribute to poor IAQ. In the quest for cleaner indoor air, technology has emerged as a valuable ally. Indoor air quality IoT sensors are becoming increasingly popular, providing real-time data on air quality parameters. These sensors can measure various pollutants such as CO2, VOCs, PM, and temperature, allowing users to monitor and control their indoor environment proactively. By leveraging these sensors, individuals can gain insights into the quality of their indoor air and take appropriate measures to improve it, whether through adjusting ventilation, using air purifiers, or adopting healthier habits. Monitoring ventilation to remove stale air Monitoring ventilation levels is another critical aspect of maintaining good IAQ. Insufficient ventilation leads to a buildup of pollutants and decreases the exchange of stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air. For example, the impact of gas cooking on indoor air quality has also come under scrutiny. A recent study highlighted the potential dangers of gas cooking, revealing that it releases harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM). These pollutants can worsen respiratory conditions, trigger allergies, and even increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is essential to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with gas cooking and explore alternative cooking methods or implement measures to mitigate pollution, such as using extractor fans and improving kitchen ventilation. IoT sensors can track ventilation rates, enabling individuals to optimise airflow and ensure a healthier living environment. By understanding how ventilation affects IAQ, we can make informed decisions about improving airflow, such as opening windows, installing mechanical ventilation systems, or utilizing air purifiers with proper filtration capabilities. Understand the right to clean air Legislation and regulations also play a vital role in safeguarding indoor air quality. In the UK, Ella’s Law, inspired by the tragic death of Ella Kissi-Debrah due to air pollution, aims to reduce pollution and establishes breathing clean air as a basic human right. This landmark legislation underscores the growing recognition of the importance of clean air and highlights the need for further action to protect public health. One indoor environment that often goes unnoticed, but has a substantial effect on our day-to-day health are our bedrooms. We spend at least a third of our lives sleeping, emphasizing the need for healthy conditions in this space. Lack of proper ventilation can lead to elevated CO2 levels, which not only affect sleep quality but can also have adverse health effects. Using devices which detect the internal conditions, we can ensure adequate airflow and ventilation in our bedrooms, creating a healthier and more restful environment. Prevent additional issues like damp and mould Poor ventilation can lead to excessive moisture building up in indoor environments which, if left unchecked, can lead to the growth of mould, posing health risks to occupants and potential damage to the property. The presence of damp and mould, in turn, have detrimental effects on IAQ, leading to increased levels of VOCs. By regularly assessing humidity levels, temperature, and ventilation, areas prone to excessive moisture can be identified and proactive measures can be taken to address them. IAQ sensors provide real-time data on humidity and other relevant parameters, alerting occupants to potential issues before they escalate. By maintaining optimal indoor air quality, including appropriate humidity levels, adequate ventilation the formation of damp and mould can be effectively prevented, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable living environment. Encouraging more government intervention Moving forward, we can expect increased awareness and prioritisation of IAQ. Organisations like DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) are actively researching and developing guidelines to address IAQ concerns and promote healthier indoor environments. The integration of IAQ considerations in building codes, standards, and health guidelines will likely become more prevalent, emphasising the importance of clean air for everyone. Evidence is mounting of the detrimental effects that hazards related to poor IAQ can have on human health and the safety of occupants. As these impacts continue to emerge, the need for monitoring the indoor environment becomes increasingly important to understand their extent and consequences. Like other safety devices such as fire and carbon monoxide detectors, IAQ sensors could become hugely important in keeping our homes healthy and safe places to live. On this Clean Air Day, let us celebrate the progress made in understanding and addressing indoor air quality issues. By recognising the impact of IAQ on our health, embracing innovative technologies like IoT sensors, and advocating for stronger regulations, we can create healthier indoor environments and ensure that the air we breathe contributes to our well-being and longevity. For more information on IoT sensors to monitor air quality, visit AICO Homelink
A stalwart of the electrical industry has been recognised for his tireless contribution to the sector with Honorary Membership of SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade association. David Smith, a Past President of the organisation and a former representative of the Glasgow and West of Scotland Branch, was accorded the exclusive honour at the association’s 111th Annual General Meeting. Handing over the award, President Alistair Grant paid tribute to the extraordinary dedication shown by David, who has held a wide range of roles at SELECT over the past 26 years and won its Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. After collecting his Honorary Membership, David told delegates at the at the Doubletree Edinburgh North Queensferry on June 1: “It’s a great honour to accept this award and quite a surprise too because it feels like just yesterday that I joined SELECT. “I have seen massive change in the association during my time here and I like the fact that everyone is made more than welcome, whether a big or small company. That’s why I tell people, ‘Join SELECT – you’ll never regret it’.” David, a senior partner in David W H Smith Heating and Electrical Services, went on: “I am very moved by the tribute of Honorary Membership and I would like to dedicate this award to all the colleagues, office bearers and officials with whom I have shared a wonderful and fulfilling career. “The electrical sector in Scotland has never been in better health, with recognition of the job’s social and environmental importance and record numbers of apprentices, and great credit must be afforded to the association for fostering this climate.” Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT, said: “I believe it gives everyone in the organisation and our associates in the wider sector great pleasure to officially recognise the skill, experience and dedication that David has brought to the many posts he has held. “David has had a full and fulfilling professional life, including work in national enterprises such as British Steel, and has created a successful business. He has always taken a keen interest in everything to do with the electrotechnical sector in Scotland. “He has been a great friend and supporter of this organisation, but he has also played major roles in a number of Scottish and UK enterprises and associations over the years and has always been a keen supporter of apprenticeships.” In his time with SELECT, David chaired the Electrotechnical Committee, was a member of the board of the industry sector skills council, SummitSkills, and served on SELECT’s Training and Skills Committee. He also held the Presidency between 2005 and 2007. Alistair, who was nominated as President for another year at the AGM along with Vice-President Mike Stark, said: “Once David had fulfilled his role as Immediate Past President, he again became a representative of the branch, a position he held until March this year – a total service of 26 years. Some of our staff are not even that old! “He will be a huge loss to the association, but I know we will be able to call on his experience at any time.” Before the AGM itself, the SELECT Central Board met for its second quarterly meeting of the year, during which representatives from all eight branches discussed progress and the priorities of the association for 2023 and beyond. Alistair also provided his own snapshot of current activity in SELECT and the wider industry, delivering updates on regulation of the industry, the ongoing work of the Construction Industry Collective Voice (CICV) and the association’s role in the workforce of the future. The event also featured a tribute and moment’s silence in honour of former association President Pat Feeney, who passed away in February, aged 91. SELECT is currently in the final stages of a long-running, but now very high-profile, campaign for the recognition of electrician’s professionalism with the submission to the Scottish Parliament of a Members’ Bill calling for Protection of Title. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Working with GAP Hire Solutions, Kier Highways Solutions (KHS), a national surface treatments provider, has electrified its entire forklift fleet. This forms part of KHS’ efforts to embed sustainable practices throughout its operations, following an audit of Wymondham Plant, its bituminous materials manufacturing arm. Located on a 7-acre site in Wymondham, Norfolk, and producing thousands of tonnes of bituminous materials each year, forklifts play an important part in KHS inventory management. KHS also sells roofing felts, sealants, solutions, tools, and PPE. It approached GAP to learn more about the potential carbon savings associated with transitioning its forklift fleet. By switching from diesel to electric, KHS has removed fumes and carbon emissions from its forklift fleet. KHS chose the Baoli KBE52N 2.5tonne model, which is powered by a 48x 625 AH battery. This is also fitted with automatic electric braking when the accelerator is released. This enhances driver safety, and the recovery of part of the braking energy is also converted into electricity and made available again. The new models will create annual carbon savings of up to 71,270 kgCO2e (based on an 8 hr shift) across Kier Highways Solutions’ forklift fleet. Neil Faulkes, Major Account Director at GAP, commented: “Both Kier and GAP have been delighted with the build quality and operational longevity of the Battery powered Baoli forklifts. Coupled with the support from DAB Handling, the UK Baoli stockist, the hand-over familiarisation given as part of the overall supply and support package GAP offered to Kier, the experience has been seamless and has enabled GAP to support Kier in reducing their environmental impact.” Lee Draper, general manager at KHS, said: “At Kier Highways, our sustainability strategy sets out how we plan to reach net-zero on our scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2030. A key part of this is transitioning to alternative, non-fossil fuels across our fleet. “This empowers all of us to look at how we do business, and make the necessary steps to reduce our environmental impact, while ensuring the same quality product. We’re pleased that GAP could support us to find a solution with considerable long-term carbon savings.” GAP continues to work closely with Kier Highways Solutions to support its decarbonisation efforts across the business. If you’d like to learn more about GAP Hire Solutions, visit https://www.gap-group.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
