Bouygues UK has welcomed representatives of Swansea Council, the UK Government and other project partners on site at 71/72 The Kingsway to mark the official ‘topping out’ for the major five-storey office development in Swansea city centre. Located at the former Oceana nightclub site, when finished the building will house
Award-winning contractor Beard has started work on a trailblazing Design, Technology & Engineering (DTE) building at Stowe School in Buckinghamshire. The £5.9 million project will see Beard’s Oxford office build a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility at the school’s campus in the grounds of the historic Stowe House. The two-storey building will
The Construction Leadership Forum (CLF) is inviting voices from across the industry and public sector to have their say on its draft Transformation Action Plan. The collaboration between Government and industry is urging fellow industry figures and businesses to help shape the future of the sector by taking part in its
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced changes to continuing professional development (CPD) for its chartered members. 1 January 2024 will see the introduction of simplified rules – removing the need for members to assign points or learning levels to their CPD activities – and more robust compliance.
Eurocell fabricator, Rapid PVCu has secured the first triple glazed site for Taylor Wimpey in Sunderland. National housebuilder Taylor Wimpey will use Eurocell’s Modus windows system at its Herrington View residential scheme in Penshaw, Sunderland. Doncaster-based Rapid PVCu is a new-build specialist and has worked with Eurocell, the UK’s leading
Leading quality management software provider for housebuilders and developers named as NHQB Accredited Supplier Today, leading construction and quality management software provider, Zutec, announces it has been officially selected by the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) as an Accredited Supplier. Zutec is one of the first suppliers to offer a
The employee-owned Cragg Vale-based business, Craggs Energy is delighted to have won two awards at the most recent Calderdale Business Awards. The company, known for its excellence in fuel distribution, has been honoured with the titles of Employer of the Year and Business of the Year, solidifying its position as
Bouygues UK has welcomed representatives of Swansea Council, the UK Government and other project partners on site at 71/72 The Kingsway to mark the official ‘topping out’ for the major five-storey office development in Swansea city centre. Located at the former Oceana nightclub site, when finished the building will house up to 600 workers, will be operationally carbon zero and is worth £32.6 million a year to Swansea’s economy. Bouygues UK’s Operations Director for Wales and the South West, Stephen Davies showed the client delegation which included Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales James Davies and Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart, around the construction site, where five floors and two basement levels have now been completed. Swansea Council is developing the project and it is being built by Bouygues UK. It is part-funded by the £1.3 billion Swansea Bay City Deal. The scheme, earmarked for completion in early 2024, will include 114,000 square feet of commercial floor space with flexible co-working and office opportunities for businesses in sectors like tech, digital and the creative industries. Other features of the new development include a roof terrace, a new link between The Kingsway and Oxford Street, and balconies overlooking the city centre and Swansea Bay. The building will include solar panels on top of the building, as well as heat recovery systems to minimise energy use. It will also include 69 bike spaces and electric bike charging as well as extensive shower and changing facilities. Stephen Davies said: “Bouygues UK is very proud to be working with Swansea Council on this landmark project for the city. It was a pleasure to welcome to the site so they could see the brilliant progress that is being made. “Sustainability is hugely important to Bouygues UK and it’s wonderful to work on such an innovative and environmentally-friendly building. The fact that the building, when finished, will operate at net zero is very important to us as a business, as it’s our ambition to achieve this on all of our sites and builds. “71/72 The Kingsway is a key part of the history and infrastructure of the city centre, and this landmark building certainly fills the need for high quality office accommodation. The mix of commercial and office space is going to be a great asset to Swansea, along with the other ongoing regeneration projects.” Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “The topping-out event marks another milestone for the construction of this landmark scheme, which is needed due to the limited amount of high-quality office accommodation in Swansea. Visiting the site has enabled us not just to see for ourselves the progress that’s already been made, but also to learn from our main scheme contractor Bouygues UK about some of the exciting digital tools soon to be used as part of the project as the development gathers even more pace. “Once complete, this scheme will offer the kind of modern, flexible office space we know our businesses need to thrive, particularly in the digital, tech and creative industry sectors where an agile workspace with networking opportunities and high-quality digital connectivity is so important. The scheme has attracted significant attention from potential tenants, and it will also benefit other city centre businesses by generating more footfall and spending.” Wales Office Minister James Davies said: “I was delighted to attend this exciting milestone in the construction of 71/72 Kingsway in Swansea. The UK Government is proud of our investment in the Swansea Bay City Deal which, along with our partners, has built this brilliant new facility for the city. “The UK Government is focused on creating jobs and spreading prosperity in Wales and this development will do exactly that by providing space for 600 jobs in growing sectors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning contractor Beard has started work on a trailblazing Design, Technology & Engineering (DTE) building at Stowe School in Buckinghamshire. The £5.9 million project will see Beard’s Oxford office build a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility at the school’s campus in the grounds of the historic Stowe House. The two-storey building will comprise of modern teaching spaces, studios and workshops, and will serve as its own educational resource. Instead of many of the internal finishes traditionally found in other buildings, the structure, joints, beams and bolted connections will be purposely left exposed. All services will be colour-coded and will remain uncovered, allowing students to observe the infrastructure of pipes through internal walls, right through to the plant room. Working alongside architects Design Engine, the project aims to minimise material use and be suitable for deconstruction, should the area ever need to be restored to woodland. With a clear emphasis on structural embodied carbon, the Beard team will be working with key supply chain partner B&K Hybrid Solutions on the timber frame construction consisting of glulam and CLT (cross-laminated timber). Beard has already begun work on the foundations, completing the installation of helical piles ahead of the steel framing and ground floor concrete slab. The project itself is set to complete next autumn. While the site is secured with fencing and hoardings, Beard is working closely with the school to minimise disruption and ensure students and staff remain safe. In addition to scheduling deliveries outside of high-traffic periods, the team are using a separate entrance for heavy goods, helping to protect the weak bridge at the main school entrance. Beard will also be engaging with students in the new year through talks and site visits, allowing pupils to not only experience the finished project, but to ask questions and follow along in its build. Dean Averies, Beard director for Oxford, said: “With our reputation in the education sector, Beard has had the privilege of being involved in a number of prestigious builds across the region. This innovative project is another fantastic example, and we’re incredibly proud to support Stowe School in delivering a state-of-the-art facility to truly bring these exciting subjects to life. “Beard is well known for delivering ambitious buildings to a high standard of quality. This project is a great opportunity for us to demonstrate this and our commitment to prompt and faultless delivery. Not only is there nowhere to hide with many elements of the building remaining exposed, but the entire build and installation must be exemplary, to provide an educational tool and benchmark for students.” Dr Anthony Wallersteiner, head of Stowe School, added: “We are delighted to see Beard start work on the new Design, Technology & Engineering building. Nestled in the grounds of historic Stowe and in the shadow of Silverstone and the UK’s engineering heartland, the cutting-edge DT&E Centre will complement its surroundings, all while providing an extraordinary educational resource for our future architects, designers and engineers. “We look forward to the project completing next autumn and working closely with Beard to share their insight and expertise throughout the build.” Lee Roberts, pre-construction director, B&K Hybrid Solutions, said: “We’re delighted to be delivering the innovative Stowe School alongside Beard and the local authority. BKHS have a great wealth of experience in the education sector, and are excited to add another premium, low-carbon building to our repertoire. The project shows a real commitment to low-carbon building solutions and we look forward to sharing the journey with the students and faculty at Stowe School.” Through its offices in Swindon, Oxford, Guildford and Bristol, Beard has completed education projects across primary, secondary, further education and SEND provisions. In addition to extensive work with Oxford University and its colleges, Beard has worked closely with the likes of Abingdon School, Marlborough College in Wiltshire and Mary Hare School in Newbury – the UK’s largest school for the deaf. For more information, please visit www.beardconstruction.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Construction Leadership Forum (CLF) is inviting voices from across the industry and public sector to have their say on its draft Transformation Action Plan. The collaboration between Government and industry is urging fellow industry figures and businesses to help shape the future of the sector by taking part in its consultation on the new plan. The CLF says the feedback will help them define action to deliver in key areas where transformation is needed most – including digital technology, net zero, modern methods of construction, fair work and procurement reform. Richard Lochhead, Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade, said: “This Plan will accelerate change and drive continuous improvement across Scotland’s construction sector, which is at the forefront of our move to net zero. “It has been co-developed by industry and public sector representatives who have set ambitious goals in areas such as skills, fair work and procurement, while working towards the wider aims of growing the green economy. “My thanks to all partners for their work on the Plan. I encourage industry to engage with the consultation and have their say on shaping this vital sector for the future.” Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group and member of the CLF, said: “In addition to be being a vital contributor to the economy, the construction industry has always embraced new ways of working and adopted innovation as a way to increase and sustain productivity and efficiency. “For the industry to continue to evolve and meet the transition to net zero and a wellbeing economy, it is widely recognised that further progression is required. The Transformation Action Plan is a result of the work undertaken by the working sub groups within the CLF, and I would encourage all leaders across our sector to take the opportunity to have their say in defining what transformation looks like for them. There is great value to be added to the plan by those in our sector who are working hard to deliver transformation. “The consultation on the plan provides a great starting point for discussion and the combined participation of the public and private sectors in the process can result in a document that unites us to deliver real sustainable transformation across our complex and diverse industry.” Morag Angus, Head of Property and Construction and Chief Surveyor at Scottish Government and co-chair of the CLF’s Transformation Board, added: “Partnership and collaboration have been at the core of developing this Plan. 48 businesses and 39 public sector bodies have already contributed to its development. We want to be sure that we have robust plan that reflects the needs of industry and that is why this consultation is so important. The challenges we face require all of us to work together for the good of our industry and our country.” The Transformation Action Plan will deliver the commitments at the heart of the CLF’s Scottish Construction Accord, which was launched in October 2022 and is a shared vision between the industry and the public sector to create a thriving and high-performing construction sector. Once finalised, the Plan will be published on CLF’s website, with the programme project managed by the Scottish Futures Trust. The draft Transformation Action Plan can be viewed in full here with feedback to be provided by Friday 17 November. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced changes to continuing professional development (CPD) for its chartered members. 1 January 2024 will see the introduction of simplified rules – removing the need for members to assign points or learning levels to their CPD activities – and more robust compliance. While members are already required to undertake and record CPD, RIBA will now check that every member has an up-to date online record, rather than auditing a random sample. Alongside the new rules, exemptions will be introduced – on request – for members on maternity, paternity, carer or adoption leave, or away from practice due to long term illness. The changes, which coincide with updates to ARB’s CPD requirements, are aimed at ensuring and demonstrating that RIBA members meet the highest professional standards and are equipped with expertise in crucial areas such as building and fire safety, climate literacy, legal and regulatory compliance, and inclusive design. RIBA has published information and guidance for members, available via its website. Executive Director for Professional Knowledge at RIBA, Adrian Dobson, said: “RIBA chartered membership represents a gold standard in architectural practice, and today the expectations and demands on architects have never been greater. Societal issues, such as the Grenfell Tower tragedy and the climate crisis, have led to significant shifts in the wider industry, requiring architects to demonstrate competence across a broad range of areas. The forthcoming changes to RIBA’s CPD requirements will it make easier than ever before for our members to develop and maintain the sophisticated knowledge and expertise they need. This will ultimately ensure that we uphold the highest standards in architecture, and that the profession remains commercially resilient and at the forefront of addressing society’s most pressing issues. Our focus remains better and safer buildings and places, stronger communities, and a sustainable built environment. We are here to support our members with the changes and advise them on their CPD needs. Alongside resources which are free for members – including digital content, events and articles – we offer structured and informal CPD at every level and price.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Eurocell fabricator, Rapid PVCu has secured the first triple glazed site for Taylor Wimpey in Sunderland. National housebuilder Taylor Wimpey will use Eurocell’s Modus windows system at its Herrington View residential scheme in Penshaw, Sunderland. Doncaster-based Rapid PVCu is a new-build specialist and has worked with Eurocell, the UK’s leading manufacturer, distributor, and recycler of PVC-U building products for 14 years. Eurocell’s market-leading Future Homes Ready Modus window system is made from 50% average post-consumer recycled PVC-U and is manufactured using innovative dual material extrusion technology (DMET). The ultimate sustainable option, with a significantly lower carbon footprint than profiles made or recycled outside the UK. For the new homeowners that will move into the neighbourhood, with U-values as low as 0.86, the triple glazed windows will reduce carbon emissions, use less energy to heat and present higher levels of security. Eurocell has been working closely with national housebuilders to enable them to achieve energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets that meet the Future Homes Standard. Martin Benn, Head of New Build at Eurocell comments: “Working collaboratively with housebuilders is something we really value at Eurocell, and this project is another example of the demand for our market-leading Future Homes Ready Modus system that ensures housebuilders meet the requirements that will be introduced in two years’ time. We look forward to the scheme completing and for future projects with Taylor Wimpey.” John Duggan at Rapid PVCu adds: “This has been a fantastic project to work on collaborating with both the Eurocell and Taylor Wimpey teams to provide innovative, triple glazing windows which are the highest quality of their kind. Triple glazing really is the best option for lowering energy consumption and the fact that the Modus window system is made with recycled PVC-U makes them incredibly attractive for housebuilders. The windows will look really smart once the homes are finished and will provide longevity and energy efficiency for the new owners.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading quality management software provider for housebuilders and developers named as NHQB Accredited Supplier Today, leading construction and quality management software provider, Zutec, announces it has been officially selected by the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) as an Accredited Supplier. Zutec is one of the first suppliers to offer a full suite of quality management (QM) solutions during the construction phase to housebuilders and developers registered with the NHQB in England, Scotland, and Wales. Zutec’s QM solutions include standardised digital templates for Quality Assurance Inspections, Snagging and Defect Management, Health & Safety Forms, Part L Photographic Evidence and Cladding Remediation. Established to develop and implement a framework that oversees the quality of new homes and customer service provided by developers, the NHQB works to ensure consistently high standards across the industry. Its framework works to improve developer performance and provides redress for buyers if these standards are not met. NHQB’s Accredited Suppliers are carefully selected to support developers in meeting the requirements of the New Homes Quality Code (NHQC), and the scheme accommodates a diverse mix of companies that can support different budgets and sizes by offering a wealth of home-building expertise. “To be recognised as an Accredited Supplier by this not-for-profit organisation overseeing the quality of new homes is a hugely important step for us. As we work with housebuilders and developers to digitise their quality management processes to deliver better-built homes, we can help them remain compliant with the NHQB’s framework while also meeting other building regulation requirements, removing manual processes, improving on-site efficiencies, and reducing human error,” commented Gustave Geisendorf, CEO at BuildData Group, holding company for Zutec. Housebuilders and developers using Zutec’s QM solutions during the construction phase can conduct Quality Assurance and Health & Safety inspections, monitor real-time project progress as well as contractor performance, and share information with inspectors and assessors — all by using its cloud-based platform and field app. Zutec’s QM solutions also provide dashboards for management visibility, insights and reporting, so teams can be reassured that homes are being built to meet quality requirements the first time, every time. Where issues may arise, these can be quickly identified, addressed, and remediated before plot completion, so quality homes can be built on-time and to budget, while reducing risk, and meeting NHQB’s requirements and the highest standards. Geisendorf continued: “Today, busy site managers spend an increasing amount of time using disconnected systems and paper-based QM processes, filling out paper forms and taking photos to meet regulatory requirements. This not only takes time but can mean mistakes are made along the way. By using Zutec, housebuilders and developers can take a consolidated approach to quality management, by using a single digital platform and field app, that standardises processes and templates, and provides consistency from site-to-site and plot-to-plot. Bringing everything together in one place, ensures all on and off-site teams have structure and can follow the same practice. As part of our NHQB Accredited Supplier status, we will work closely with NHQB’s Registered Developers to help improve the quality of their homes and customer services through digital processes.” To find out more about the NHQB and its framework, or how Zutec is helping customers with QM, please visit https://www.nhqb.org.uk/ or https://www.zutec.com/product/quality-management/. Alternatively book a demo and experience Zutec’s QM solutions for yourself HERE. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The employee-owned Cragg Vale-based business, Craggs Energy is delighted to have won two awards at the most recent Calderdale Business Awards. The company, known for its excellence in fuel distribution, has been honoured with the titles of Employer of the Year and Business of the Year, solidifying its position as a standout contributor to the local business landscape. Matthew Crockett, Managing Director at Craggs Energy comments: “We are honoured to have received both the award we were nominated for and the prestigious Business of the Year award. This recognition stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, of which I couldn’t be prouder. At Craggs Energy, we believe that our employees are our most valuable assets, and we are committed to empowering our workforce. This accolade reflects our ongoing dedication to fostering a supportive and thriving workplace. We place high value on our employees, customers, and the community we serve. Not only this but winning the Business of the Year award highlights our commitment to excellence and innovation within our industry. Our sustained growth, relentless pursuit of quality, and dedication to customer satisfaction drive us to continue providing reliable and renewable fuel solutions for our Calderdale community for years to come.” Emily Yates, Transport and Operations Planner said: “We had a fantastic evening at the awards ceremony and we were blown away to be recognised for two awards. Over the past twelve months, we have seen lots of improvements within the business including the introduction of a dog-friendly office, revamped breakout areas, internal awards and recognition and more regular staff incentives including meals and team nights out. I feel privileged to be working with such an amazing team and to share in the growing success of our one hundred per cent employee-owned business. The continued incentives and benefits that are introduced keep the team motivated and feeling valued. I’m excited to see what the future holds for us.’’ Craggs Energy’s impressive double victory at the Calderdale Business Awards 2023 is a testament to their enduring commitment to their colleagues, community, and industry. As they continue to grow and evolve, their presence in the energy sector remains influential and their dedication to excellence is unwavering. The Employer of the Year and Business of the Year titles are not just accolades but a testament to the values that define Craggs Energy as a pillar of the Calderdale business community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
