Construction of the largest Passivhaus affordable housing scheme in the north west is nearing completion. The finishing touches are now being made at Greenhaus – a highly sustainable development of 96 homes, which is being built on Chapel Street in Salford, opposite Salford Cathedral. The first residents are expected to
Network Rail engineers will be carrying out an extensive programme of engineering work at Keadby sliding bridge, near Scunthorpe, which will result in changes to train services through the area. Teams will be working for nine days from Saturday 17 to early morning on Monday 26 February to strengthen one
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new version of ‘Fire Manager’, its dedicated web-based SaaS (Software as a Service) fire app that offers service providers and fire safety managers the capability to have all fire safety sites in one view. The status of buildings can be easily monitored, with more
As part of its work to support practices in running their businesses, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has today, Thursday 8 February 2024, published its Guide to Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) 2024, exclusively available to RIBA members. Find a free summary of the guide attached. From offering financial protection,
This National Apprenticeship Week, Enfield Council will be highlighting several success stories based at the landmark Meridian Water regeneration project. Local apprentices working with Enfield Council’s project partner, Taylor Woodrow, have been gaining site experience whilst completing their training. Their courses prepare them for the varied roles in the construction
On Tuesday, 6 February the British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) held its 2024 conference in Westminster. This annual event, hosted at the prestigious QEII Centre and sponsored once again by Senstec and Quooker, is a crucial forum for professionals, industry leaders and experts from the KBB industry to gain
McLaren Living has been selected to regenerate Minster Quarter in Reading town centre. Following a detailed procurement process, Reading Borough Council the company to drive forward and deliver the exciting new £250 million ‘Minster Quarter Central’ scheme, which could include: In line with Reading’s net-zero by 2030 ambitions, McLaren Living’s
A joint venture partnership between Asset Capital and Prescient Capital, has secured funding to enable the redevelopment of a pair of vacant landmark buildings opposite the Town Hall in Leeds city centre. Established senior debt facilitator BLG Development Finance has committed funds for the redevelopment of 26 Great George Street,
Indoor air quality and ventilation manufacturing specialist Nuaire will be discussing its ventilation solutions at five Specifi Mechanical Services events in 2024, kickstarting the new year off in Manchester in January, before moving on to Bristol and Birmingham in February, London in April and Leeds in October. Held in the
Construction of the largest Passivhaus affordable housing scheme in the north west is nearing completion. The finishing touches are now being made at Greenhaus – a highly sustainable development of 96 homes, which is being built on Chapel Street in Salford, opposite Salford Cathedral. The first residents are expected to start moving into Greenhaus this spring. The ground-breaking development is being delivered by The English Cities Fund (ECF) – a joint venture between nationwide placemaker, Muse, Legal & General and Homes England – alongside Salford housing association Salix Homes, and supported by Salford City Council. This week, delegates from the Northern Housing Consortium (NHC) paid a visit to Greenhaus, including leaders from housing associations across the north, to find out more about how sustainable and affordable homes can be delivered on a large scale. NHC Chief Executive Tracy Harrison said: “This is a fantastic example of green homes delivering real change in the north. Projects like this cut carbon, deliver lower bills and warmer, healthier homes, as well as creating good green jobs. This benefits residents, the economy, and the environment. We need an ambitious programme of investment from the government to build on this progress.” The nine-storey development has been built to Passivhaus Classic certified standard, which is the leading low-energy design standard. Passivhaus homes offer high thermal comfort and improved air quality, providing a healthier living environment and homes that are cheaper to heat and run. The sustainable features at Greenhaus include triple glazed windows, the latest insulation technology, improved ventilation and airtightness, air source heat pumps and publicly accessible electric vehicle charging points. The one and two-bedroom homes will be available in a mix of tenures including social rent, affordable rent and rent-to-buy. Sue Sutton, Chief Executive at Salix Homes, said: “Greenhaus is the first and largest development of its kind in the region, setting the benchmark for new-build, affordable and sustainable homes that are fit-for-the-future and support our carbon neutral ambitions. “We were pleased to welcome NHC members to see the development as it nears completion and share with them our experience of how truly sustainable and affordable homes can be built at scale to help tackle the housing crisis – delivering high quality, healthier homes that are better for residents and the environment.” Passivhaus homes offer a range of health benefits for residents. The airtightness, thermal comfort and improved ventilation help protect against airborne pollutants, reduce the risk of illness associated with living in cold homes, and minimise the risk of damp, mould and condensation. Simon Hourihan, Project Director at Muse, said: “Greenhaus is a true partnership project, setting the standard for affordable, sustainable housing in the region. “We’re extremely proud of the whole team, who have been learning together and overcoming challenges to deliver high quality, Passivhaus-certified homes on a large scale. We’re looking forward to completing and residents moving in later this year, and learning more about the positive impact that low-energy homes can have on people’s lives.” Greenhaus is part of ECF’s £1bn, 50-acre Salford Central transformation being delivered in partnership with Salford City Council, and will take the overall percentage of affordable homes delivered by ECF to 25% across the Chapel Street area of the masterplan. The homes are being built by lead contractor Eric Wright Construction and were designed by architect Buttress. Andy Avery, Director at Buttress added: “This milestone is a testament to the team’s vision and skill in designing and delivering innovative and sustainable housing solutions. Buttress’ commitment to Passivhaus design illustrates our dedication to environmental responsibility, creating aesthetically pleasing yet, healthier and affordable places to live for the people of Salford.” Salix Homes secured funding from NatWest, along with grants from Homes England and Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to help fund the multi-million-pound scheme. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Network Rail engineers will be carrying out an extensive programme of engineering work at Keadby sliding bridge, near Scunthorpe, which will result in changes to train services through the area. Teams will be working for nine days from Saturday 17 to early morning on Monday 26 February to strengthen one of the walls of the Stainforth & Keadby canal which needs repair. During the work, new rails and other fresh track equipment will also be installed on the railway bridge. Engineers will be draining part of the canal before knocking down part of its north wall and installing a new, prefabricated concrete slab onto the wall, stabilising it and allowing train services to run over the bridge for years to come. The nine-day programme of work will result in passengers experiencing smoother and more reliable journeys as they travel by train. The original Keadby sliding bridge dates to the late 1800s and is the only bridge of its kind in the UK. The railway it carries is one of the busiest routes for freight services on Britain’s rail network and connects passengers between Doncaster and the Lincolnshire coast. Due to the improvements, there will be changes to passenger services between Doncaster and Scunthorpe. Rail replacement services will operate on all days between Doncaster and Scunthorpe. For TransPennine Express passengers, replacement bus services will operate each day between Doncaster and Scunthorpe non-stop in both directions. Train services will continue to run between Liverpool Lime Street and Doncaster and also Scunthorpe to Cleethorpes. Northern will operate a Monday to Saturday replacement coach service that will call at Kirk Sandall, Hatfield & Stainforth, Thorne South, Crowle, Althorpe, and Scunthorpe. Passengers are encouraged to check their journeys before travelling via National Rail Enquiries or with their train operator. Matt Rice, Route Director for Network Rail’s North & East route, said: “This extensive programme of upgrades to Keadby sliding bridge and the canal wall will be beneficial for our passengers as they experience smoother, more reliable journeys as they travel by train between Doncaster and Scunthorpe. “This is a large-scale piece of work, but we have deliberately planned to carry it out in a longer period so that our engineers can work to deliver all the vital maintenance and upgrades at once, rather than causing multiple periods of disruption. However, we know that this work will be disruptive to passengers, and we are sorry for any inconvenience caused. “We would encourage all passengers to check how their journey may be affected ahead of travelling via National Rail Enquiries or their train operator. I also want to thank passengers for their patience and understanding throughout this period.” Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern, said: “We welcome this investment in the region’s rail infrastructure and the benefits the works will bring to our passengers travelling between South Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. Whilst there will be short term inconvenience, this is about long-term improvements to the network and we ask for customers’ patience and understanding during the period of disruption.” Kathryn O’Brien, Customer Service and Operations Director at TransPennine Express, said: “We want to thank our customers for their patience as Network Rail carries out an extensive programme of upgrades to Keadby sliding bridge which will provide long-term improvements to the network. “We are advising customers to check before they travel at www.tpexpress.co.uk/travel-updates or National Rail Enquiries.” At the same time, engineers will be working to carry out comprehensive repairs to the platform structure along with a like for like renewal of the existing footbridge at Althorpe station. A temporary footbridge will be installed while work is carried out to construct the new station footbridge, maintaining connections for passengers to platform 2. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new version of ‘Fire Manager’, its dedicated web-based SaaS (Software as a Service) fire app that offers service providers and fire safety managers the capability to have all fire safety sites in one view. The status of buildings can be easily monitored, with more information available by clicking on a site of interest via a fully encrypted connection that ensures the safety of the data. The move is part of the ongoing development of Siemens Building X, a digital building platform that supports customers in digitalising, managing, and optimising their building operations (Energy, HVAC, Security and Safety). It enables remote monitoring and intervention, real-time notification, and efficient and predictive maintenance. Fire Manager offers a range of benefits, including a status overview of a site/sites, both live and historical events, customisable notification via SMS and/or email, and data that assists with maintenance and planning. Included in the data that Fire Manager provides from a fire safety system is the potential for disturbance free testing (DFT), which allows detectors to be tested automatically, with the results recorded in the portal. Alongside Fire Manager, which automatically transmits notifications of the fire system status to service providers, notifications can also be sent to their customers by Fire Connect, a native iOS and Android app. Fire Manager and Fire Connect work easily with Siemens fire safety solutions such as Cerberus PRO, the company’s comprehensive EN54-13 approved fire alarm system. For those that want to maintain their own dashboards, Fire API provides the opportunity to integrate the data into their own dashboards. All three offerings – Fire Manager, Fire Connect and Fire API – are part of a new licensing model which paves the way for increased customer flexibility by offering choice regarding which data and app bundle best suits a specific need. The Fire Apps and API are designed to digitalise the customer workflow for fire safety operation and maintenance. This saves time and resources while improving safety and minimising the disturbance of building users. It enables service providers to monitor all sites at any time remotely and connect directly to the fire panel. This transparency allows for maintenance activities to be planned, carried out and documented efficiently. The enhanced solutions not only drive digital transformation, but also yield sustainability benefits. By offering maintenance options and a fire system status remotely, it is possible to save CO2 emissions related to yearly site visits. For further information on Siemens Fire Products www.siemens.co.uk/cerberus Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As part of its work to support practices in running their businesses, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has today, Thursday 8 February 2024, published its Guide to Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) 2024, exclusively available to RIBA members. Find a free summary of the guide attached. From offering financial protection, to legal compliance, to building client confidence, PII has an essential role in helping to protect against claims made by third parties as a result of negligent professional services. This easy-to-follow guide – the first of its kind to cover such depth – equips architects to navigate the maze of insurance jargon, complexities and myths, giving them confidence when applying for or renewing their PII, and helping their businesses survive an unintended and unexpected event. It explains terminology and outlines the value and principles of insurance, how it works in practice, how to buy good quality insurance, and the importance of being risk-aware – as awareness of what can happen can prevent it from happening. It also sets out what to do when a crisis does occur. Written by experienced professionals, this guide is supported by the ongoing work of the RIBA Council Expert Advisory Group on PII, comprised of insurance industry experts and RIBA members. RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said: “Our profession has been crying out for support with Professional Indemnity Insurance, and I am pleased to say that we have heeded that call. The importance of appropriate PII cover cannot be understated – sitting alongside a commitment to excellence, ethics, innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement, it is a critical component of building and maintaining a strong professional reputation.” RIBA Chair of Board Jack Pringle said: “As practices continue to grapple with economic uncertainty, this guide to navigating the complexities of Professional Indemnity Insurance could not be more timely. It is essential for architects to be well-versed in insurance in order to protect their practice and thereby their clients through appropriate cover. Familiarising yourself before the worst happens is the best way to be business resilient. This guide is the culmination of years of work by the industry’s top experts and provides practical support in clear, no-nonsense language. I look forward to seeing it used far and wide.” Find a free summary of the RIBA Guide to Professional Indemnity Insurance attached. Download the full RIBA Guide to Professional Indemnity Insurance, exclusive to RIBA members. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This National Apprenticeship Week, Enfield Council will be highlighting several success stories based at the landmark Meridian Water regeneration project. Local apprentices working with Enfield Council’s project partner, Taylor Woodrow, have been gaining site experience whilst completing their training. Their courses prepare them for the varied roles in the construction industry, such as engineering and quantity surveying. Currently, seven young people, all from Enfield, have benefitted from the opportunities created by Taylor Woodrow. Five of those apprentices have recently been supported to progress onto degree apprenticeships to further develop their learning and careers, with some learning from on-site experience at Meridian Water. Construction and Built Environment apprentice, Cameron Flanagan from Edmonton said, “The beginning of the apprenticeship was a whirlwind, but I quickly found my feet, leading to winning the NCE Apprentice of the Year award. I am now an Assistant Engineer with a lot more experience and responsibility. I’ve enjoyed every minute and I’m excited for what the future holds. I would encourage anyone who is unsure of what they want to do, to take advantage of the opportunities on their doorstep.” Quantity Surveyor Apprentice, Yassir Karram also from Edmonton said, “No two days are the same. Setbacks happen, but they’re part of the journey. Taylor Woodrow has always supported me to keep progressing. I’m pleased to finally be on site on such an impactful project and I’m really looking forward to absorbing as much as I can over the coming years.” The Deputy Leader of Enfield Council, Cllr Ergin Erbil, said, “Improving jobs and skills within the local community is a key objective of the Council. Projects like Meridian Water act as the foundation for us to regenerate the local area which enables the Council with its partners to provide apprenticeships and countless other opportunities.” Taylor Woodrow has two new live apprenticeship opportunities on offer at Meridian Water. Click on these links for the Level 4 Corporate Social Responsibility Apprentice and the Level 3 Health and Safety Apprentice to find out more information: https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeship/1000224840 https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeship/1000224839 Apply now, as these apprenticeships are in high demand. The closing date is 29 February 2024. National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 5 to 11 February and celebrates the achievements of apprentices around England. It aims to highlight the positive aspects of apprenticeships and encourage more people to consider an apprenticeship. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
On Tuesday, 6 February the British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) held its 2024 conference in Westminster. This annual event, hosted at the prestigious QEII Centre and sponsored once again by Senstec and Quooker, is a crucial forum for professionals, industry leaders and experts from the KBB industry to gain insight, discuss key topics and make valuable connections. BiKBBI’s 2024 conference theme was “Driving industry change through collaboration”, and speakers and panellists shared opinions and experiences and debated the sector’s challenges and opportunities, across a series of engaging presentations and discussions. The event was hosted by Hannah Prevett – Deputy Editor of The Times Enterprise Network – who expertly guided activities and thoughts throughout the day. The conference was opened by CEO of BiKBBI Damian Walters, who celebrated the existing collaboration from sponsors, retail partners and stakeholders which drives positive change for the sector but warned there is still much to do and a need for greater collaboration from the whole industry on the subject of education, standards, compliance and sustainability. Results of the BiKBBI Installer Survey 2024 were also unveiled at the conference. Keynote speakers included Fergus Harradence, Deputy Director of Infrastructure Construction & Rail at the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) who shared the UK government’s predictions for 2024, highlighting that, despite the continued challenges with a shrinking workforce and the continued skills gap, there was growth potential with both consumer and business confidence increasing which would ultimately benefit the construction sector. Emily Wallace, CEO of the Trade Association Forum (TAF), also presented on the topic of the value of associations and what can be achieved when industries work together to influence policy, face challenges and grow skills. Industry insight data from AMA Research was presented alongside key findings from the Bathroom Manufacturers Association’s Understanding the Bathroom Installer Survey 2023 and kbbreview’s Retailer Survey 2024 as well as BiKBBI’s own Installer Survey 2024 – all highlighting collaboration as the pathway to success. BiKBBI hosted a sustainability panel featuring Phil Viner from Triton Showers, Tom Reynolds from the BMA and Lyrical Communications’ David Ventris-Field to discuss how to reach and support KBB installers better on the topic of sustainability. BiKBBI’s Installer Survey 2024 highlighted that 1 in 5 installers have noticed an increase in customers asking for recommendations on environmentally friendly products, and over 50% of installers feel the industry is not doing enough to reduce its impact on the environment. Diversity Ambassador for BiKBBI, the Rt. Hon Stuart Lawrence, supported by James Moore from the MoD’s Careers Transition Partnership and Apprentice Plumber Sophie Maguire, led a workshop on why and how the industry should work towards improving diversity and inclusion, highlighting the benefits that a diverse workforce can bring to businesses and the industry. Stuart Lawrence then asked delegates at the conference to sign BiKBBI’s ‘Charter for Change’ – a commitment to work with BiKBBI to explore a revised inclusivity recruitment strategy– with 55 businesses pledging their support for the charter. Education and apprenticeships also remained on the 2024 conference agenda, being a key area of focus for BiKBBI as a route to tackling the current skills gap. A panel of experts, led by Hannah Hockley from The Apprenticeship Partner, included Wickes Apprenticeship Programme Manager Connie Collett, independent retailer and apprenticeships champion Simon Taylor, KBB apprentice employer Paul Miles, and previous KBB apprentice Elliott Perry. The panel discussed recent advances in apprenticeships and training, including the new standalone Apprenticeship Standard for Fitted Furniture Installers reinforcing that access to education and training is integral to resolving the skills shortage, with Hannah Hockley highlighting the importance of the whole industry recognising the severity of the situation and the importance of support from all areas of the sector. Damian Walters, CEO of BiKBBI, said ‘The BiKBBI annual conference has seen significant growth over the past three years, and it is not by coincidence. The attendance of so many brands and businesses here today is representative of the importance that installation plays to the whole industry and recognises the role that we fulfil as an institute. The theme of the day was collaboration, which was demonstrated by the 160 delegates who took time away from their busy day jobs to come here, join the conversation, and support this vital sector of the KBB industry. But now the real work begins, and we will continue to drive the agenda on the topics raised today with the support of our corporate sponsors, retail partners and wider stakeholders. I would like to personally thank all contributors, speakers and panellists involved in today’s event, along with all of the delegates who, through collaboration, made the event a success and have given the industry a solid platform to move forward from.” The results from the BiKBBI Installer Survey 2024 can be view here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
McLaren Living has been selected to regenerate Minster Quarter in Reading town centre. Following a detailed procurement process, Reading Borough Council the company to drive forward and deliver the exciting new £250 million ‘Minster Quarter Central’ scheme, which could include: In line with Reading’s net-zero by 2030 ambitions, McLaren Living’s vision is for all-electric, energy efficient systems which maximise on-site renewable energy generation. The development promises a net gain in biodiversity and dedicated new pedestrian and cycle routes. Reading’s Minster Quarter is a key and historic part of the town centre and represents a long-standing and major strategic regeneration ambition for Reading Borough Council. The 5.2-acre site, in the heart of Reading and formerly occupied by the Civic Centre, will become a new gateway to and from Russell Street, the Castle Hill Conservation Area and the residential areas of west Reading. The proposals will aim to deliver a thriving mixed-use community, incorporating a positive street scene and places for people to shop, eat and enjoy Reading’s thriving arts and culture. Current plans include re-provision of space for the Charter Market on Hosier Street, and an improvement of its setting with new public realm surrounding the landmark Reading Minster. Proposals also include the regeneration of Dusseldorf Way, creating a key new boulevard with further street trees and places to sit. The development is central to the wider Minster Quarter Regeneration Area, which has the potential to create a comprehensive new mixed-use neighbourhood in the heart of Reading town centre, delivering upwards of 1,200 homes. Over the next decade, neighbouring landowners plan to bring forward a series of schemes. These include the redevelopment of Thames Valley Police Station, Broad Street Mall, Magistrates Court investment and the Council’s own exciting plans to create a cultural campus with the Hexagon Theatre and new studio theatre extension, made possible through Levelling Up Fund funding. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A joint venture partnership between Asset Capital and Prescient Capital, has secured funding to enable the redevelopment of a pair of vacant landmark buildings opposite the Town Hall in Leeds city centre. Established senior debt facilitator BLG Development Finance has committed funds for the redevelopment of 26 Great George Street, the Grade II listed former Victoria Commercial & Family Hotel and adjacent Shenanigans pub which closed at the start of the pandemic. Built in 1865 The Victoria Hotel was a well-regarded ale house with 28 bedrooms situated above, whilst the latter Shenanigans pub occupied the former Masonic Hall and Central Tower. Last month Stirling Prescient secured full planning consent from Leeds City Council to redevelop the site into purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) on the upper levels whilst retaining the ground floor pub and leisure provision. The team behind Kirkstall Brewery and Whitelock’s Ale House have pledged to restore the pub to its former glory, whilst the partnership will deliver 54 studio student bedrooms with modern facilities including a concierge, communal lounges, a gym, bin store, TV room and laundry. The redevelopment involves partial demolition of the existing buildings with a rear extension rising four storeys. The impressive Victorian exterior façade will be sensitively restored, protecting heritage value, and enhancing aspects that contribute positively to the sites significant setting. Daniel Newett of Asset Capital, said: “We are delighted to partner with BLG to bring forward this important regeneration and conservation project. Our plans will help to preserve this historic pub for future generations to enjoy whilst also making best use of the wider plot for much needed new student accommodation. The JV team is local to the area with considerable understanding and expertise in the long-term viability of commercial estate development and an extensive portfolio of successful student led schemes.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Indoor air quality and ventilation manufacturing specialist Nuaire will be discussing its ventilation solutions at five Specifi Mechanical Services events in 2024, kickstarting the new year off in Manchester in January, before moving on to Bristol and Birmingham in February, London in April and Leeds in October. Held in the evening, Specifi events provide a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, conducive to learning and sharing knowledge. It enables specifiers to discuss their requirements with manufacturers, and learn about latest solutions to key challenges in building services. Established in 1966, and working across the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors, Nuaire has a lot of knowledge to share! Experienced Nuaire staff will be on hand at Specifi to advise on the latest developments in ventilation, whether it be on addressing overheating in our buildings, preventing condensation and mould in homes, or improving indoor air quality in schools. Key products that Nuaire will be focussing on include the Xboxer heat recovery range; the BPS-ECO-HP boxed packaged solution range of Air Handling Units with integrated heat pump charged with R32 refrigerant; and the Hybrid Cooling System, which is an ancillary cooling module that works with the existing Nuaire MRXBOX MVHR products to provide a hybrid MVHR and cooling system for high-rise new builds. For further information on the Specifi events, go to https://www.specifi.co.uk/. For more information on Nuaire visit www.nuaire.co.uk or contact enquiries@nuaire.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
