Derek Horrocks, chair of the National Home Decarbonisation Group, said: “This announcement is another incredibly positive step towards decarbonising the housing stock up and down the country – and one we welcome with open arms at the NHDG. “We’re pleased to see that along with the public sector, private
Almost half of project management professionals working in the construction sector consider themselves to be neurodivergent, according to a new survey by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession. APM surveyed over 1,000 project professionals working in various UK sectors including construction in
HAVING discovered the headline-grabbing RAAC concrete in the roof above its stage, the 400-seat Key Theatre in Peterborough was forced to close in September over safety concerns. However, thanks to quick work from Pick Everard and Lindum Group, the curtain has now been able to up for panto season. To
In a strategic move that marks a new beginning, Prismo, previously under PPG Traffic Solutions EMEA and formerly known as Ennis-Flint, proudly announces a successful management buyout led by its existing management team, General Manager James Moore and Finance Director Andy Jourdain. The company is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier
When picking the ideal flooring for your home, you usually find yourself torn between two popular options: solid hardwood and engineered wood. Each has unique benefits and drawbacks, making the decision challenging. If you’re still undecided about which option to select for your space, this article is for you. Read
Unlocking Financial Freedom: The Significance of ISAs for Young People When it comes to managing your finances as a young adult, one tool you should definitely have in your financial arsenal is an Individual Savings Account (ISA). ISAs are like the Swiss Army knife of savings and investments, offering a
Derek Horrocks, chair of the National Home Decarbonisation Group, said: “This announcement is another incredibly positive step towards decarbonising the housing stock up and down the country – and one we welcome with open arms at the NHDG. “We’re pleased to see that along with the public sector, private owner-occupier and private landlords will benefit from this funding, with an extra £1.5 billion for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, and a new energy efficiency grant providing £400m to households in England. “The extra funding for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme gives the opportunity to tie this £7,500 offering into whole-house decarbonisation proposals for householders, which alongside ECO for fabric measures should create an attractive large-scale offering. This is alongside multiple other heat transformation schemes, and a new £500m local authority retrofit scheme to support 60,000 low-income and cold homes, including those off the gas grid. “Meanwhile, we’re especially pleased to see £1.25 billion for the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund within the funding, which will be match-funded to create £2.5 billion between 2025 and 2028. This is something we called for in the Autumn Statement and will give us that longer term to develop the area-based approach and use the economies of scale it affords. “The past five years have seen more government investment in decarbonisation than ever before. Excellent progress has been made, with nearly 50% of properties in England now having an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of C – up from just 14% in 2010. The government has now committed to spend £12.6 billion by 2028, a move that will genuinely make a difference to thousands. “Since our inception earlier this year, we made a concerted effort for this funding to be committed to, by writing directly to the Prime Minister, as well as making a request for this ahead of the Autumn Statement. We firmly believe that the decarbonisation of homes is about so much more than achieving net zero but rather it is also about supporting millions of people facing the impacts of the cost of living, energy, and health crises, which this announcement highlights. “This funding will provide the all-important long-term certainty for businesses within the sector too. This is again something we have spoken publicly about in recent months and called on the Prime Minister himself to assure. With more than £12 billion now committed, industry can be confident in making the investments needed for innovation and expanding the supply chain that will deliver this critical work. “As a group, we know the power we have together, with an estimation that 80% of the large-scale domestic retrofit in the UK will be carried out by our members. In 2024, we know we have a huge opportunity to work closely with the government on shaping policy through our growing partnership with DESNZ. Our working groups are established and already working towards achieving real outcomes together, and we look forward to continuing our position as a key driver for net zero – and of social change too.” To learn more about the NHDG, its aims and its members, please visit the website at: https://www.nhdg.org/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Almost half of project management professionals working in the construction sector consider themselves to be neurodivergent, according to a new survey by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession. APM surveyed over 1,000 project professionals working in various UK sectors including construction in the poll carried out by national research company Censuswide. In total across all sectors surveyed, 31% considered themselves to be neurodivergent, which includes conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia. For the construction sector, the figure stood higher at 46%. Another 45% said they were not neurodivergent, 7% preferred not to say and 2% did not know. Some 96% of the construction sector respondents said they have informed their employer of their neurodivergence, in contrast to the survey’s overall average of 78%. Meanwhile, 88% said their employer, once notified, had made changes to the workplace or ways of working to accommodate their neurodivergence. This was also higher than the survey’s 81% average. Barriers facing project professionals in all sectors included ‘not feeling comfortable’ about telling their bosses (40% agreed) and ‘not seeing the point’ (23% agreed). One in four (25%) said they intended to do so, and 12% said they did not have an official diagnosis. Professor Adam Boddison OBE, Chief Executive of APM, said: “Our research shows almost half (46%) of project professionals in construction consider themselves to be neurodivergent, which is a significant proportion and far higher than the cross-sector average of 31% in our latest survey. “Employers in construction which embrace neurodivergence not only foster a culture of inclusivity and send out a powerful message that people with neurological differences are valued, but also benefit from unique strengths and perspectives that contribute to creativity, problem-solving and increased productivity. It can also unlock valuable insights into customers and stakeholders, leading to improved services and outcomes. Diversity in all its guises adds value to organisations. “Overall, the importance of encouraging a neurodivergent workforce cannot be overstated. Individuals must feel empowered and supported to do their best work, and once employers have created optimal conditions, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated, leading to higher levels of job satisfaction, retention rates and overall success across the built environment.” The survey also found that 73% of construction respondents agreed with the view that the project profession is one that is welcoming and supportive of people who are neurodivergent – a figure also higher than the survey’s average (64%). Another 18% neither agreed or disagreed, and 9% disagreed. When asked what construction employers can do to make the project profession more welcoming for neurodivergent individuals, 52% agreed on more internal training for staff on neurodivergence. This was followed by 46% agreeing on ensuring organisations are more aware of the benefits that neurodiversity can bring to the workplace. Another 30% agreed on changes to working models. Jenny McLaughlin, a Project Manager at Heathrow Airport, who has ADHD and dyslexia, described the survey’s findings as being a helpful snapshot of neurodiversity for the project profession to help shape workplace considerations and attitudes, and to ensure equity within project management. “Many neurodivergent individuals have experienced barriers and discrimination in some form. But as a project professional, you can provide the mandate to create a more systematic inclusive world – it is a challenge to relish,” she said. Jenny, who leads on systematic inclusion for Heathrow Airport’s solutions function, said neurodiversity represents “the fact that all of our brains are wired differently, as unique as a fingerprint”. She added: “There is no one right way to be wired, but society has been constructed to favour the majority, or neurotypical, which creates barriers to those of us who think differently.” Read more about Jenny’s experiences and reflections on neurodiversity in her APM blogs Neurodiversity in project management and Human labels and how they affect project benefits. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HAVING discovered the headline-grabbing RAAC concrete in the roof above its stage, the 400-seat Key Theatre in Peterborough was forced to close in September over safety concerns. However, thanks to quick work from Pick Everard and Lindum Group, the curtain has now been able to up for panto season. To gain a full picture of the situation, Peterborough City Council contracted multidisciplinary consultancy Pick Everard to carry out building surveys and feasibility studies to assess the next steps. These surveys showed there was an immediate ‘red’ failure on RAAC reports. To ensure the theatre’s seasonal production could go ahead, a plan was immediately mobilised to design a secondary roof system underneath the main roof inside the main auditorium. With a timber design, materials were able to be procured very quickly utilising the local supply chain, allowing contractor Lindum to be completing the installation of the structure within a matter of weeks. Jenny Curtlin, Director at Pick Everard, said: “Panto season is such an important one for theatres, particularly from a business perspective in the current climate, so a key aim remained making sure that could go ahead. “That very pressing timescale meant that permanent removal of the roof was not an option until further down the line, so the project team mobilised a temporary solution with the secondary roof structure. Being able to pull together to get the work underway so quickly was critical, and the most impressive part of this project has been the speed from everyone involved. “We’re very proud to have played a key role in making sure theatregoers in the area will be able to enjoy the production of Aladdin – and that work was completed in time for the Key Theatre’s 50th anniversary too.” The new internal roof provides further structural support for the main roof, around which the lighting and sets have been installed as normal and ensures the safety of public, staff and stage crew. Councillor John Howard, deputy leader of the council, said: “It seems the genie granted Aladdin his wish and everyone who has booked tickets for the panto will be able to enjoy the show this Christmas, I’d like to thank the contractors who worked at pace to complete the project on time.” The council has also confirmed that a longer-term solution is already underway, with a complete roof replacement already in the design phase to make sure the theatre can remain a key part of Peterborough’s landscape for years to come. For more information, please visit https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a strategic move that marks a new beginning, Prismo, previously under PPG Traffic Solutions EMEA and formerly known as Ennis-Flint, proudly announces a successful management buyout led by its existing management team, General Manager James Moore and Finance Director Andy Jourdain. The company is a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of road markings and traffic safety solutions with a wide range of high-performance products, from hot-applied and preformed thermoplastics to innovative traffic paint, road studs, high friction surfacing, bridge expansion joints, crack sealants, MMA, epoxy, and indoor flooring paints. The MBO heralds a new era in the company’s long and illustrious history which stretches back to 1935. It will see the business return to its origins as it rebrands to Prismo. Renowned for its innovative approach to road safety, Prismo has been at the forefront of road marking products for over 88 years, and was the first to bring many new technologies and solutions to the market. Prismo has built a global reputation for outstanding quality, service, and innovation, and it is these pillars that still underpin the company today. The MBO also sees the company move to wholly independent ownership and the freedom that this brings. Commenting on his vision for the business, James Moore said: “This is a key turning point in the company’s history. The move to independent ownership will give us the freedom to implement our exciting strategy for growth and to drive the business forward. It will also allow us to provide a more personalised service to our customers and to deliver enhanced customer value.” James continued: “The return to the Prismo brand is also a pivotal move. Its long-standing success serves as a reminder to the market of our long history, our technical capabilities and our unmatched expertise within global traffic safety solutions.” The buyout includes the company’s flagship manufacturing plant in Chorley, UK, the largest and most sophisticated thermoplastic production facility in Europe, and additional plants in Italy operating under the esteemed Vernisol brand. Alongside these, the company maintains a strategic presence in South Africa, furthering its commitment to a global approach in traffic safety solutions. The Italian facilities, known for their high-quality waterborne and solvent-based paints, as well as MMAs, reinforce Prismo’s position as a world-leading manufacturer of sustainable traffic safety solutions. Vernisol, a respected name in the Italian market for over 42 years, will continue to operate as Vernisol by Prismo. “Our Italian operations, under the Vernisol brand, represent a vital part of our global strategy,” says Andy Jourdain. “We are excited to introduce Vernisol’s innovative products to a broader European audience, leveraging our combined expertise to enhance road safety standards worldwide.” The management team is enthusiastic about the future, emphasising the continued production of quality, sustainable products. “We are proud British manufacturers, dedicated to advancing British manufacturing and maintaining our status as a major exporter,” says Andy Jourdain. “Our focus remains on delivering products engineered for maximum road safety, backed by 130 years of combined expertise.” As the company moves into this next phase, it is keen to reassure its suppliers and customers that it is business as usual. James Moore said: “Our team is fully focused on ensuring a smooth transition, maintaining the high service and quality standards our customers expect. We’re excited about the future and the opportunities this new chapter brings for our staff, suppliers and customers alike.”
When picking the ideal flooring for your home, you usually find yourself torn between two popular options: solid hardwood and engineered wood. Each has unique benefits and drawbacks, making the decision challenging. If you’re still undecided about which option to select for your space, this article is for you. Read on to understand the differences better and make a wise choice for your flooring. Hardwood Flooring A perennial favourite, hardwood flooring comprises solid wood planks. Its natural texture and timeless appearance add elegance to any space. Incorporating options from reputable manufacturers into your design ensures a touch of class and longevity. But you should balance these factors with your specific needs. The key advantages of hardwood flooring include: Hardwood floors, with their unique grain patterns and rich colours, are available in wood types like oak, maple, and cherry. Its classic look is versatile, complementing both traditional and modern interiors. Maintaining hardwood floors is relatively straightforward. You can sand and refinish them multiple times to remove scratches and wear. Flooring experts like Wooden Floors UK recommend regular sweeping and buffing to keep hardwood looking great. With proper maintenance, hardwood floors can last decades, becoming more appealing with age. Their sturdiness makes them suitable for high foot traffic areas. Hardwood flooring is one of the best flooring options for new homes and is popular among homebuyers, often producing higher resale value. They offer aesthetic appeal and lasting quality. However, they also have some limitations: Such flooring tends to be more expensive. This cost reflects the material’s high quality and long-lasting nature. Hardwood is generally more sensitive to moisture. In areas prone to spills or humidity, it can warp or swell. It requires careful acclimation and consistent humidity control to prevent damage. There may be better choices than hardwood floors in humid or dry climates. They can expand or contract in such conditions, leading to gaps or buckling. While hardwood is durable, it does require regular care to maintain its appearance. This includes protecting it from scratches, moisture, sunlight and periodic refinishing. Installing hardwood flooring is a skilled task, often necessitating professional help. While prices can fluctuate, anticipate investing more in quality hardwood. Engineered Wood Flooring Engineered wood flooring is a versatile and practical alternative. This flooring combines a sturdy base with a top layer of hardwood veneer. Using it offers several advantages: Engineered wood offers a cost-effective alternative to hardwood. It provides a similar look at a lower price, making it accessible for a broader range of budgets. This affordability doesn’t compromise its aesthetic appeal. Engineered wood’s layered construction offers better resistance to moisture and humidity than hardwood. This makes it suitable for use in areas like basements or over concrete slabs, where hardwood might not be ideal. One of engineered wood’s advantages is its compatibility with various subfloors, including concrete and radiant heating systems. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for many homes. Engineered wood flooring often features a click-lock system, simplifying installation. This can benefit DIY enthusiasts, reducing the need for professional installation and associated costs. With engineered wood, you’re not limited in style and colour. The manufacturing process allows for various finishes and looks, ensuring you find the perfect match for your interior design. Like with regular hardwood, it’s vital to consider engineered wood’s drawbacks: Though durable, it doesn’t match hardwood’s lifespan. Over time, its upper layer may show signs of wear, particularly in places with frequent footfall. Engineered wood’s veneered layer limits how often it can be sanded and refinished. If the surface wears down, replacement might be the only option. Although engineered wood mimics the look of hardwood, purists may notice subtle differences. The veneer layer, while natural wood, offers a different depth and richness than solid hardwood. Installing engineered wood flooring is straightforward, making it a viable option for DIY enthusiasts. In terms of cost, it’s more budget-friendly, offering various choices for different financial plans. Considerations In Selecting Suitable Wood Flooring Your budget is a crucial factor in choosing between hardwood and engineered wood. While hardwood is a long-term investment, engineered wood offers a more affordable initial cost. Consider both the price of purchase and long-term maintenance. Think about your household’s daily activities. High-traffic areas or homes with pets and children might benefit from the durability of engineered wood. Hardwood, while sturdy, may require more frequent care. Your local climate influences your choice. Engineered wood typically offers better stability under fluctuating temperature conditions. Hardwood might not be suitable for extremely humid or dry regions. The type of subfloor you have also matters. Engineered wood can be installed over a variety of subfloors. Hardwood often requires a stable and dry subfloor. Opt for a flooring style that enhances your home’s aesthetic. Hardwood and engineered wood offer a range of styles and finishes, with hardwood providing a classic look and engineered wood offering modern and diverse options. Be realistic about how much effort you’re prepared to invest in floor maintenance. If you prefer low-maintenance options, engineered wood might be better. Hardwood requires more care but can be restored even without sanding. Conclusion Choosing between hardwood and engineered wood flooring is a significant decision for a homeowner. Each type has distinct characteristics that can impact your space’s look, feel, and functionality. Whether you value hardwood’s classic elegance or engineered wood’s versatility, you must consider factors like budget, lifestyle, climate, subfloor, style, and maintenance. For more detailed information on options, consult specialised resources or flooring professionals to guide your decision-making.
Unlocking Financial Freedom: The Significance of ISAs for Young People When it comes to managing your finances as a young adult, one tool you should definitely have in your financial arsenal is an Individual Savings Account (ISA). ISAs are like the Swiss Army knife of savings and investments, offering a range of benefits that can help you achieve your financial goals and secure your future. In this article, we’ll delve into why ISAs are so important for young people, exploring the various advantages they bring to the table. Tax-Free Growth and Earnings One of the most appealing aspects of an ISA is its tax-free status. Unlike traditional savings accounts or investments, the interest, dividends, and capital gains you earn within an ISA are not subject to income tax or capital gains tax. This means that as your money grows over time, you get to keep every penny of it. For young people just starting on their financial journey, an individual savings account could be a game-changer. It allows you to maximize the growth of your savings and investments without worrying about the taxman taking a slice of your hard-earned money. Flexible Saving Options ISAs come in various flavors, each designed to cater to different financial needs. The two most common types are Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs. Cash ISAs function much like regular savings accounts, offering a safe and secure place to stash away your money, usually with competitive interest rates. On the other hand, Stocks and Shares ISAs provide the opportunity to invest in a wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. This flexibility means you can choose the ISA type that aligns best with your financial goals, whether it’s building an emergency fund, saving for a house deposit, or investing for long-term wealth. Protection from Inflation Inflation is the silent enemy of your savings. Over time, the rising cost of living erodes the purchasing power of your money. But with ISAs, you can potentially beat inflation. By choosing investments within your Stocks and Shares ISA that have the potential for higher returns, you increase the likelihood that your money will grow at a rate that outpaces inflation. This means that your savings will have more buying power in the future, helping you maintain your standard of living. Emergency Funds and Rainy-Day Savings Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and it’s essential to have a financial safety net in place. ISAs are an excellent vehicle for building your emergency fund. With a Cash ISA, you have easy access to your money whenever you need it, making it an ideal place to park your rainy-day savings. Knowing that you have a cushion of cash readily available can provide tremendous peace of mind and financial security. Harnessing Compound Interest Albert Einstein once called compound interest the “eighth wonder of the world.” Compound interest is the magic that happens when your interest earns interest. Over time, this compounding effect can significantly boost your savings and investments. ISAs allow you to take full advantage of this phenomenon by sheltering your earnings from taxes. The earlier you start saving and investing, the more time your money has to grow through compound interest, giving young people a substantial advantage. Encouraging Financial Discipline ISAs encourage financial discipline by providing tax incentives for long-term saving and investing. When you know that your investments are protected from taxation, you’re more likely to leave your money untouched, allowing it to grow steadily over time. This can help young people develop good financial habits, such as regular saving and prudent investing, which will serve them well throughout their lives. A Path to Financial Freedom Ultimately, ISAs are not just about saving money; they’re about building a path to financial freedom. Whether your goal is to travel the world, retire early, or pursue your passions without financial constraints, ISAs can help you get there. By harnessing the benefits of tax-free growth, flexibility, and compound interest, young people can set themselves up for a future that’s financially secure and full of possibilities. In Conclusion In a world where financial stability and independence are paramount, ISAs are invaluable tools for young people. They provide a tax-efficient way to save and invest, offering a range of options to suit different financial goals and lifestyles. From tax-free growth and flexible savings to protection from inflation and the power of compound interest, ISAs empower young adults to take control of their financial future. So, if you haven’t already, consider opening an ISA today. Your future self will thank you for it.
