Britain’s leader in Ground Source Heat Pumps, Kensa Heat Pumps, is set to unveil the next generation of home heating and cooling. At an online launch on 29th February, Kensa will reveal its solution to help bring heat pumps to the masses, decarbonise current and future homes and create green
Construction of the University of Huddersfield’s new National Health Innovation Campus (NHIC) has celebrated a key milestone with a topping out ceremony held at the Daphne Steele Building. This first building on the Southgate site, close to the main university campus, is named after the UK’s first black matron. Daphne
Office interior design consultancy Office Principles North has been chosen to deliver two new projects that will upgrade facilities at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC) in Coventry. The Midlands-based firm will design and construct a two-storey mezzanine and new laboratory space at the national battery manufacturing development facility, near
Kimpton, a leading provider of mechanical and electrical services for Built-to-Rent (BTR) and Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) markets, has identified significant trends shaping the BTR landscape in the UK and globally. 1. Growing Demand for Rental Housing: A noticeable shift towards renting rather than homeownership is evident, driven by
Leading UK-based physical security systems manufacturer, CLD, announces the launch of their latest temporary fencing solution, the FenceSafe Securus S2, redefining the landscape of temporary security fencing by combining sustainability with unparalleled protection. As one of the largest suppliers of security fencing in the UK, CLD offer tailored, trusted and
Adopting a new approach to service operations has seen Finning UK & Ireland score a 75 per cent first time fix rate for customer equipment faults – achieved by leveraging condition monitoring technology and historic data from over 5500 remote diagnostic sessions. The remote services and diagnostic team at Finning,
Hochiki Europe, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of fire detection and emergency lighting solutions, is thrilled to announce its participation in SICUR 2024, Spain’s premier international security event. The company is set to exhibit a range of products including its groundbreaking Ekho Hybrid Wireless fire detection range,
SOCOTEC UK played a key role in a refurbishment project at a secure school catering to students sentenced to custody and remand by the courts. The school premises include two education blocks, one services block, and three residential blocks. SOCOTEC UK’s specific focus was on the residential blocks, namely Blocks
Britain’s leader in Ground Source Heat Pumps, Kensa Heat Pumps, is set to unveil the next generation of home heating and cooling. At an online launch on 29th February, Kensa will reveal its solution to help bring heat pumps to the masses, decarbonise current and future homes and create green jobs. The launch will be presented by Kensa CEO, Tamsin Lishman, who’ll be joined by special guest Chris Stark, Chief Executive of the Climate Change Committee. Tamsin Lishman, CEO of Kensa Heat Pumps, said: “Mass adoption of heat pumps, including Ground Source Heat Pumps, will grow the economy, create green jobs and bring people out of fuel poverty. “We are about to embark upon the biggest transformation in home heating since the conversion to natural gas fifty years ago. We will show how the next generation of Ground Source Heat Pumps can provide millions with long-lasting clean, energy-efficient home heating and cooling.” For 25 years Kensa has proven that ground source heat pumps can work in all property types. From retrofit projects in high-rise flats to new build housing installations, ground source heat pumps are already reducing consumer energy bills, taking people out of fuel poverty and cutting CO2 emissions. Studies have shown installing more heat pumps will: Research also shows mass heat pump adoption improves people’s health, and could save the NHS £1.4bn per year [4] : With the Future Homes Standard set to effectively ban installations of gas boilers in new build homes from 2025, ground source heat pumps are expected to be an essential solution for the Government to meet its target of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028 and propel the UK to Net Zero. By 2030 Kensa plans to deliver 70,000 ground source heat pumps a year, a move that will create 7,000 green jobs and put more people in control over when they heat their homes. Registrations for the online launch are open now: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-next-generation-of-home-heating-tickets-807897371787?aff=PRGen Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction of the University of Huddersfield’s new National Health Innovation Campus (NHIC) has celebrated a key milestone with a topping out ceremony held at the Daphne Steele Building. This first building on the Southgate site, close to the main university campus, is named after the UK’s first black matron. Daphne Steele emigrated to the UK from Guyana in the 1940s and the ceremony was attended by her son, Robert Steele, who unveiled a plaque watched by members of the Steele family. The building named in Daphne’s honour is the first of the exciting project that will help to improve health outcomes and lead innovation in healthcare for the North of England. It will bring together public-facing facilities including award-winning student-led clinics, and be a focus for entrepreneurial academic activity, serving the regional and wider health economy in strong public-private partnerships. Specialist clinical teaching facilities will provide unparalleled support for workforce development. The ceremony was attended by University of Huddersfield Vice-Chancellor Professor Bob Cryan CBE and guests included James Wimpenny, Executive Director of construction partners BAM Construction, Anthony Langen, Managing Director of architects AHR and Russell Green, Project Manager of construction consultants Gleeds. Completion of the Daphne Steele Building, which also received a grant of £5.8m in capital funding from the Office For Students, is expected in September 2024. “The scale of the thing is massive and everything I have heard about the innovative facilities plus the benefits to students and the wider community are fantastic,” declared Robert Steele. “What would Daphne have made of all this? I think she would have been stunned, blown away and surprised that this is part of her legacy.” “We were truly honoured when we were allowed to name this new building after Daphne, so I was absolutely delighted that Robert, along with members of her family and friends, joined us for the topping out ceremony,” said Professor Cryan. “Daphne’s ethos of care and compassion allied to expertise is something that we hope everyone who studies and works in this facility will take with them. We are relishing the prospect of this building being fully operational later this year.” James Wimpenny, Executive Director – Construction, at BAM, said: “This milestone marks not only the highest point of the build but also the culmination of the collaborative efforts of the client, design, and construction teams. “At BAM we are passionate about building inspiring spaces that empower learning and enrich the University experience, and that is exactly what we are delivering here at the University’s new National Health Innovation Campus.” Plans for more construction on the site adjacent to the Daphne Steele Building are well under way, with a reserved planning application for the second NHIC building having been submitted late in 2023. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Office interior design consultancy Office Principles North has been chosen to deliver two new projects that will upgrade facilities at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC) in Coventry. The Midlands-based firm will design and construct a two-storey mezzanine and new laboratory space at the national battery manufacturing development facility, near Coventry Airport. The initial 20-week project will create up to 8,000 sq ft of open plan office space, meeting and conference rooms in the warehouse process hall. The extension will connect to the building’s second floor via a new link bridge attached to the main building and will involve steel and M&E works. Phase two will see the creation of a single storey structure housing c.3,000 sq ft of new laboratory space for exploratory work. It will be fitted out to modern standards, and will include wipe down surfaces, electrostatic flooring, and air conditioning. Office Principles North will deliver all works in a live environment and will employ sound proofing and dust monitoring equipment to ensure optimum air quality. Both projects will be delivered in collaboration with Ridge and Partners LLP and AtkinsRéalis, and are in addition to a new enhanced battery laboratory which is also currently under construction. Gary Tailby, joint managing director of Office Principles North, said: “We are delighted to further our relationship with UKBIC, having initially worked together more than two years ago. We will be creating much needed new space for the UK’s growing battery sector and helping to ensure that this highly important operation in Coventry continues to flourish. “Office Principles North has developed a reputation for first class office fit out and refurbishments but this project will enable us to showcase our construction expertise too. The design for the new extension has been developed in collaboration with UKBIC and will involve the installation of steelwork within the existing concrete floor. As air quality is critical in a battery production environment, we’ll be taking additional measures to ensure that appropriate levels of cleanliness are maintained at all times.” UKBIC opened in July 2021 and is used by organisations with new or existing battery technologies. It recently secured £38 million in funding to upgrade the facility’s scale-up capabilities in support of innovation projects for high-tech developers and users of battery technologies. The new funding, announced as part of the autumn statement, is principally for UKBIC’s innovative flexible scale-up line, and builds upon the £36 million already committed by the Faraday Battery Challenge in May 2023. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kimpton, a leading provider of mechanical and electrical services for Built-to-Rent (BTR) and Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) markets, has identified significant trends shaping the BTR landscape in the UK and globally. 1. Growing Demand for Rental Housing: A noticeable shift towards renting rather than homeownership is evident, driven by factors such as higher interest rates and the desire for flexibility. Housing affordability, particularly in certain areas, is a significant challenge making rental housing an appealing and sometimes the only option. 2. Institutional Investment: Institutional investors, including pension funds and real estate investment trusts (REITs), are increasingly showing interest in BTR projects. The sector’s potential for long-term, stable returns makes it an attractive option for building a balanced investment portfolio. 3. Focus on Amenities and Community Spaces: BTR developments are prioritising high-quality amenities and communal spaces to attract tenants. Gyms, co-working spaces, communal lounges, and outdoor areas contribute to creating a desirable living environment, moving away from high-density accommodation blocks. 4. Technology Integration: The integration of smart home features and efficient property management using technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and energy-efficient systems is becoming a standard in BTR developments. This aligns with the increasing prevalence of remote work, requiring adaptable designs for work-from-home spaces. 5. Sustainable and Green Practices: BTR developers are incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient designs and green building materials. The demand for green technology among environmentally conscious Gen Z and Millennials is evident. 6. Location and Connectivity: Proximity to transportation hubs, employment centres, and lifestyle amenities remains crucial in BTR development. Access to urban conveniences and connectivity, exemplified by Kimpton projects like the Conington Road BTR Scheme in Lewisham, enhances the appeal of such developments. 7. Sustainability and ESG Considerations: A growing emphasis on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors is driving BTR developers to adopt more sustainable practices. Compliance with evolving regulations, especially in relation to EPC ratings, is a priority for new developments. 8. Diversification of BTR Offerings: Developers are diversifying their BTR portfolios to include various unit types, catering to different demographics and lifestyle preferences. The inclusion of larger units accommodates families, reflecting shifts in household structures. 9. Demographic Changes: Population growth, urbanisation trends, and changes in household structures influence the demand for rental housing. The aging population and the rise of single-person households in the UK are shaping the types of properties and amenities being created. 10. Brownfield Takeover: The reshaping of city landscapes, including the conversion of empty retail units and downsized office spaces into BTR units, presents an opportunity for developers. Coordinated and sensitive planning is crucial for ensuring the future vibrancy of cities. Matt Breakwell, Business Development Manager at Kimpton said: “The BTR sector is experiencing substantial growth and will become an increasingly significant driver of the housing market. Kimpton recognise the opportunity for developers and investors to reshape cities, creating sustainable communities and create a genuine solution for individuals seeking long-term, flexible, high-quality living arrangements in a changing housing landscape. We are delighted to be continuing to play our part in the decarbonisation of the BTR sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading UK-based physical security systems manufacturer, CLD, announces the launch of their latest temporary fencing solution, the FenceSafe Securus S2, redefining the landscape of temporary security fencing by combining sustainability with unparalleled protection. As one of the largest suppliers of security fencing in the UK, CLD offer tailored, trusted and durable security solutions to protect environments such as data centres, schools, transport hubs, manufacturing warehouses, high-profile sporting venues, open spaces, and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) sites. The FenceSafe Securus S2, engineered to meet the stringent standards of LPS 1175 B3 (SR2) Issue 8, combines a foundation-free cantilevered base with the Securus 10 S2 mesh fencing, ensuring heightened safety and security. Highlighting their commitment to sustainability, the FenceSafe Securus S2 serves a dual purpose. Both the base and Securus panels can be reused, adaptable for use within permanent fence lines, showcasing the versatility and positive sustainable outcomes of this solution. Ideal for safeguarding airports, major events, utilities, and crowded places, this system boasts a sleek, tamper-resistant finish and a bottom rail for added security. Compliant with LPS 1175 regulations, it ensures a minimum 3-minute delay against potential attacks. Available on a rental basis, it provides flexible on-ground physical security that can be quickly commissioned and removed without leaving any trace. CLD operates from a range of sites in the UK to also ensure guaranteed available stock to meet short lead time requirements. Scott Fulton, Rental Division Director, comments: “Our dedication to cutting-edge technology ensures the FenceSafe Securus S2 delivers top-tier security while championing sustainability. This solution provides customers with a tailored, easy-to-install product designed in alignment with British and European safety regulations.” For more information on CLD Systems, please visit: www.cld-systems.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Adopting a new approach to service operations has seen Finning UK & Ireland score a 75 per cent first time fix rate for customer equipment faults – achieved by leveraging condition monitoring technology and historic data from over 5500 remote diagnostic sessions. The remote services and diagnostic team at Finning, the world’s largest Cat® equipment dealer, has introduced the new approach to its service operations using data from machine telematics, which is then cross referenced with historic service data to diagnose the problem remotely. This approach has radically improved the first-time fix rate for its customers – minimising machine down time and ensuring their engineers’ time is used most effectively. Over the last three years the team has facilitated a shift from offering a reactive service and support function to one that is fully proactive. Drawing on data from real-time remote diagnostic sessions – with the team conducting up to 300 each month – the engineers use this information to accurately predict asset faults and issues remotely. This enables them to take the necessary action – such as ordering the right part or parts – so that the engineer visiting the site can resolve the issue during just one site visit, ensuring the customer’s assets are returned to operations as soon as possible. Strategic Operations Manager for Finning UK & Ireland, Nikolaos Kakoudakis, said: “Having the ability to remotely diagnose an equipment fault is crucial for both us and the customer operating that equipment. For us, being able to identify the precise nature of the fault means that when the engineer goes out to site, they have the correct parts and can resolve the issue quickly for the customer. This ensures any downtime is kept to an absolute minimum, which can be costly and cause project delays. It also reduces operational inefficiencies on site. “There’s a real sense of pride among the team, who genuinely want to give our customers the very best level of servicing support and expert guidance. Everyone in the team should feel very proud of the hard work and exemplary work ethic.” The new approach has been so successful that Caterpillar®, during a recent visit to the company’s Leeds branch, awarded the team a certificate recognising their ‘excellence in condition monitoring and remote services’. Speaking about the award, Lavanya Ajesh, Managing Director at Caterpillar Commercial, Northern Europe, said: “We are focused on leveraging and optimising remote services and condition monitoring to accelerate customer satisfaction and services growth. The dedication of the Finning team towards using these tools to improve first-time fix and to drive service growth is highly commendable. Their work is helping pave the road in this journey. Congratulations and well deserved on the recognition as a best practice dealer in this field globally.” Commenting on the achievement, Chris Hepworth, General Manager for Service Operations at Finning, said: “Over the last three years, the technology and remote services team has delivered transformational results demonstrating improvement month-on-month. The team provides services to exceed our customers’ needs, from breakdowns to proactive interventions preventing failure. These results have been achieved through teamwork and collaboration with the wider service operations team. Well done to everyone involved.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hochiki Europe, a global leader in the design and manufacturing of fire detection and emergency lighting solutions, is thrilled to announce its participation in SICUR 2024, Spain’s premier international security event. The company is set to exhibit a range of products including its groundbreaking Ekho Hybrid Wireless fire detection range, leading intelligent emergency lighting system FIREscape Nepto and life safety platform Latitude, the team will be providing attendees with a hands-on look at the technology. SICUR, recognised as the leading event in Spain for security and safety, offers an ideal platform for Hochiki Europe to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and excellence in the Fire industry. The event will take place from the 27th February to the 1st March at the Feria de Madrid, where Hochiki Europe will be in Hall 8 stand G10A. Visitors will experience a full showcase of this world leader’s range of cutting-edge fire detection products, and how they integrate with the manufacturers’ renowned ESP intelligent range. Richard Wharram, Export Sales Manager at Hochiki Europe, expressed his enthusiasm about the company’s participation in SICUR and the opportunity to present such a wide range of products “SICUR is a key event for the security industry, and we are excited to be part of it. Amongst the many products we’ll be showcasing, I’m particularly excited to share our Ekho Hybrid Wireless range with visitors. A second-generation hybrid wireless solution, first launched in the UK in 2020, represents a significant leap forward in wireless fire detection technology, offering enhanced flexibility, reliability, and ease of installation. We look forward to meeting and talking to industry professionals, partners, and potential clients to share our vision for the future of fire safety.” Joining the team at SICUR 2024 is Raul Solinz, Hochiki Europe’s newly appointed Regional Sales Manager for the Iberian and Mediterranean regions. Solinz brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, and his presence at the event underscores Hochiki Europe’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the Spanish and European markets. Raul Solinz commented on his new role and the significance of showcasing Ekho Hybrid Wireless at SICUR: “I am delighted to be part of the Hochiki Europe team and excited about the opportunity to meet with industry stakeholders at SICUR. The range we’ll have on offer addresses the evolving needs of the market and is a testament to Hochiki Europe’s dedication to providing state-of-the-art solutions. I look forward to discussing how our innovative products can contribute to enhancing fire safety across various sectors in the region.” Visit Hochiki Europe in Hall 8 stand G10A during SICUR 2024 to explore Latitude, FIREscape Nepto and the Ekho Hybrid Wireless fire detection ranges, and engage with the experts shaping the future of fire safety technology. Learn more about the Ekho Hybrid Wireless Range https://www.hochiki-ekho.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SOCOTEC UK played a key role in a refurbishment project at a secure school catering to students sentenced to custody and remand by the courts. The school premises include two education blocks, one services block, and three residential blocks. SOCOTEC UK’s specific focus was on the residential blocks, namely Blocks A, B, and C, two-story existing buildings providing secure residential accommodation and day facilities. The Fire Engineering team at SOCOTEC UK produced the RIBA Stage 4 Fire Strategy Report and mark-ups, offering ad-hoc support throughout the project. Refurbishment adjustments included modifications to existing compartment lines to accommodate communal or shared spaces. For instance, communal kitchen/living spaces were created by incorporating multiple bedrooms, fostering a shared living environment. Each bedroom was equipped with automatic suppression systems, and common corridors were covered by a smoke control system. Innovative solutions were imperative to integrate life safety systems within the constraints of existing buildings and meet specific security requirements outlined by the client. Operating as a hybrid between a boarding school and a secure/custodial facility, the secure school’s unique nature required a thorough understanding of the client’s security requirements. SOCOTEC UK’s expertise enabled them to develop creative solutions to address challenges uncommon in traditional schools or secure facilities. For more information, please contact SOCOTEC on 0845 603 2112 or salesuk@socotec.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
