February 26, 2024
LED-ing the Way: Leeds £22.5m LED lighting scheme completed

LED-ing the Way: Leeds £22.5m LED lighting scheme completed

The scheme officially completed last week with the final light being installed at Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds. Leeds City Council today announces the completion of its LED lighting scheme, an extensive project aimed at improving energy efficiency in street lighting throughout the city. Initiated in December 2018, the

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KNAUF PROUDLY SPONSORS THE CONSTRUCTING EXCELLENCE SECBE AWARDS 2024

KNAUF proudly sponsors the constructing excellence SECBE Awards 2024

Knauf is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Construction Excellence SECBE Awards 2024. The prestigious regional awards, renowned for its commitment to recognising excellence and innovation in the construction industry across London and the South East, are set to take place on June 27th 2024. As a returning sponsor,

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Redefine tomorrow: GF Piping Systems introduces the new IR-63 M fusion machine for optimized infrared welded pipe connections

Redefine tomorrow: GF Piping Systems introduces the new IR-63 M fusion machine for optimized infrared welded pipe connections

On the heels of 32 years of infrared (IR) fusion development, GF Piping Systems introduces the IR-63 M, a new IR welding machine that maintains established technology while integrating new hardware and software features for faster, more convenient, and more efficient welding. Thanks to a machine-controlled process, IR fusion machines ensure

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

February 26, 2024

The Hill Group Boosts Future Development Pipeline Activities by £4.3 Billion During 2023

The Hill Group Boosts Future Development Pipeline Activities by £4.3 Billion During 2023

The Hill Group, a leading privately-owned housebuilder, recorded £150 million of land investments during 2023, significantly boosting the company’s pipeline by over three thousand new homes. The investments, which span the breadth of the South of England, represent Hill’s commitment to delivering much-needed, sustainable new homes, either as part of its development activity or as a partner of choice. Hill’s investments encompass 11 developments with a gross development value (GDV) of £1.3 billion delivering 3,000 new homes, of which over 44% (+1,300) will be designated as affordable. Nine of the developments are expected to start on site by the end of 2024, with the remaining pair anticipated to begin in 2025. All of the developments have planning. Hill made its series of 2023 investments during a period of increased economic uncertainty, demonstrating a proactive and long-term approach, positioning the housebuilder for strong growth in 2025. The developments include two joint ventures with Peabody and two sites delivered in partnership with Cambridge City Council, highlighting Hill’s collaborative approach to delivering high-quality housing and regeneration projects. In the same year, Hill also invested heavily in its future pipeline with several acquisitions in strategic land sites, including Warwickshire and Essex. A total of four strategic land options were procured for the company, with the potential for over 9,500 new homes with a GDV of over £3 billion. Andy Hill OBE, Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group comments, “The recent economic downturn presents both challenges and opportunities. By strategically securing these developments at a time when market conditions are advantageous, we are ensuring a robust pipeline of projects ready to commence construction as and when planning approvals are secured. This approach will ensure The Hill Group remains well positioned in preparation for an expected recovery in market conditions. “Our robust financial position and agile decision-making capabilities have also allowed us to capitalise on strategic land acquisitions, setting ourselves up for growth over the next decade and beyond.” Hill’s 2023 investment strategy includes numerous significant developments, including the delivery of St Ann’s in Haringey in joint venture partnership with Peabody. The landmark project on the site of a former hospital will eventually deliver up to 1000 homes, of which 600 will be affordable. The company’s recent land acquisition of Little Chalfont Park in Buckinghamshire represents an exciting opportunity to develop 380 homes in a prime commuter belt location, providing homes for people at all stages of life; from first-time buyers through to families, retirees, and those needing later-life care. Furthermore, Raleigh Road in Bristol will deliver in excess of 100 homes on the site of the former Wills Tobacco factory, transforming a historic landmark into a vibrant new community hub. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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LED-ing the Way: Leeds £22.5m LED lighting scheme completed

LED-ing the Way: Leeds £22.5m LED lighting scheme completed

The scheme officially completed last week with the final light being installed at Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds. Leeds City Council today announces the completion of its LED lighting scheme, an extensive project aimed at improving energy efficiency in street lighting throughout the city. Initiated in December 2018, the programme has successfully converted over 89,000 streetlights to new LED lamps, in partnership with street lighting partner Enerveo (subcontractor to Tay Valley Lighting). The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme is expected to bring significant annual savings of £3.4 million in electricity costs at current energy prices. Additionally, the conversion to LED lighting is projected to reduce street lighting energy consumption by approximately 62%, resulting in 7,050 tonnes of carbon savings, with savings already being made throughout the lamp replacement. The new LED lanterns offer increased durability and recyclability, leading to enhanced efficiency and reduced emissions from maintenance visits. Public consultation, conducted from November 2017 to January 2018, showed strong support for the upgrade, with over 80% of respondents endorsing the initiative. Councillor Helen Hayden, Executive Member for Sustainable Development and Infrastructure, attended the installation of the final LED light on Edith Sykes Drive in east Leeds this week, marking the conclusion of the project. Councillor Hayden said: “The completion of the LED Lighting Scheme represents a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability in Leeds. This investment will deliver immediate cost savings and lay the groundwork for future advancements in smart technology” Tom Cunningham, Tay Valley Lighting (Leeds) Director, said: “We have been delighted to support Leeds City Council investment on the LED lantern works, the investment has provided many benefits, local employment opportunities during the period, reducing energy consumption and maintenance activities resulting in significant cost savings to Leeds City Council and carbon reduction impact from the project”. As Leeds continues its commitment to environmental stewardship and technological innovation, the completion of the LED Lighting Scheme underscores the council’s dedication to building a more sustainable future for the city and its residents. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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HS2 launches third giant tunnelling machine under capital building the Northolt Tunnel

HS2 launches third giant tunnelling machine under capital building the Northolt Tunnel

HS2’s London tunnels programme passed a major milestone as the third tunnel boring machine (TBM) being used as part of the project was launched. TBM Emily, named after Emily Sophia Taylor who helped establish the Perivale Maternity Hospital in 1937 before becoming Ealing’s first female mayor in 1938, will be used to dig almost half of the 8.4-mile Northolt Tunnel. She will bore 3.4 miles under Ealing from Victoria Road Crossover Box, near HS2’s new Old Oak Common station, to Greenpark Way in Greenford. HS2’s London Tunnels contractor, Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture, assembled the TBM underground at the Victoria Road site after being lifted in parts and lowered into a shaft. Manufactured by world-leading tunnelling experts, Herrenknecht in Germany, TBM Emily weighs 1,700 tonnes and has a 9.11m diameter cutterhead. The TBM is an earth pressure balance machine, which is designed specifically for the soft London clay that will be extracted from the ground. Speaking about the next TBM launching in London for HS2, Malcolm Codling, project Client Director, HS2 Ltd, said: “We are working at peak construction on HS2, delivering the tunnels which HS2 trains will travel through under London. The preparation to launch TBM Emily has been complex and we remain on schedule to complete the Northolt Tunnel in 2025.” The Northolt Tunnel will carry HS2 trains in and out of London – extending between the new Old Oak Common superhub and the outskirts of the capital at West Ruislip. The twin-bore tunnel is being built in two sections. Two TBMs, named Sushila and Caroline, are already constructing it eastward between West Ruislip and Greenford. Another two – Emily and Anne – are being used to dig the tunnel in the opposite direction from Victoria Road Crossover Box to Greenford.   Emily and Anne’s tunnel drive will cover 3.4 miles of the tunnel in total – slightly less than those being used on the other section. Emily was launched today and Anne – the fourth and final Northolt TBM – will launch next month. The quartet of TBMs are all set to complete their journeys in 2025, when they will be extracted from the ground through giant shafts at Greenpark Way. The London Clay, that will be extracted to build the tunnel, will be taken away from Victoria Road Crossover Box by conveyor, and taken to the London Logistics Hub at Willesden Euro Terminal. From there, it will be taken by rail and reused at sites in Cambridgeshire, Kent and Rugby. James Richardson, Managing Director of Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture (SCS JV), said: “The HS2 London Tunnels team are well on the way to delivering a new railway into the heart of London with the launch of TBM Emily. Next month, we will be launching TBM Anne who together with Emily will form the tunnel from old Oak Common to Greenpark Way Shaft where they will meet with TBMs Sushila and Caroline, who are already halfway to completing their journeys from West Ruislip.” HS2 is also making progress on preparations on the separate tunnel between Old Oak Common and Euston – the line’s ultimate central London terminus. The Atlas Road Logistics Tunnel breakthrough in January. The logistics tunnel is runs from the Old Oak Common Station box to Atlas Road logistics site and will facilitate the tunnelling operation to construct the Euston Tunnel. Two further TBMs will be delivered to Old Oak Common later this year, and placed into the underground box, ready to begin boring the Euston Tunnel. Following the Government’s Network North announcement in October last year, the funding and delivery arrangements for the Euston Tunnel are being reviewed. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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OPEN LETTER URGES FIRST MINISTER TO THINK AGAIN ABOUT HOUSING AND PLANNING BUDGET CUTS

Open letter urges First Minister to think again about housing and planning budget cuts

Worst possible decision at worst possible time An open letter in today’s Daily Record is urging the First Minister to think again about the cuts being proposed to the 2024-25 budgets for housing and planning. The call comes the day before the Scottish Parliament votes on the draft Scottish Budget for the year ahead and follows the findings of independent research showing that 693,000 Scottish households are facing some form of housing need.  It also comes in the context of three Local Authorities having already declared housing emergencies and others considering similar action. The letter has been signed by housing organisations Homes for Scotland (HFS), the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) and the Chartered Institute for Housing together with the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. SFHA Chief Executive Sally Thomas said: “Parliament will tomorrow decide whether to approve the Scottish Government’s budget – a budget that proposes to slash the money available to build social homes by more than a quarter. “Almost one in twenty people in Scotland are on a waiting list for a social home, 30,000 are homeless and nearly 10,000 children are growing up in temporary accommodation.  We just aren’t building the homes that Scotland needs. “The budget proposals represent the worst possible decision at the worst possible time and are a hammer-blow to the First Minister’s priority of reducing poverty.” HFS Chief Executive Jane Wood said: “At a time when 693,000 Scottish households are facing some form of housing need, all the data shows that the chronic undersupply of housing in Scotland is intensifying.  This not only threatens the country’s social wellbeing by perpetuating housing inequality but also risks its economic success and the transition to net zero. “As we consistently highlight, private and affordable housing delivery are interconnected.  With 30 per cent of affordable housing generated by the private sector through developer contributions, the more homes for sale that can be built, the more affordable homes will be delivered as a result.  Given the planning system is already on its knees, the 43 per cent funding reduction being proposed will serve only to increase delay and cost, and do nothing to encourage crucial private sector investment. “We hope that the First Minister will think again about his government’s proposals and that all MSPs will carefully consider the housing needs of their constituents as they vote tomorrow.” CIH Scotland National Director Callum Chomczuk said: “Scotland is in the midst of a housing crisis, with three local authorities already declaring housing emergencies and up to a dozen more on the brink of doing so. “We all know what the problem is, a failure to build enough affordable homes, and yet the most recent budget exacerbates the crisis by taking almost £200m out of the housing supply budget. But it is not too late to make changes. “Even at this late stage, the Scottish Government can restore the budget and work with the sector on developing a response to deal with the housing emergency.  We hope they take the chance to make addressing Scotland’s housing crisis a political priority.” Chris Birt, Associate Director for Scotland at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said: “There is still time for the First Minister to do the right thing and reverse this massive cut to the affordable housing supply budget.  To fail to do so would be baffling in the face of spiralling homelessness and use of temporary accommodation, never mind the Scottish Government’s stated commitment to poverty reduction.  Low-income tenants will face increasing rents and insecurity as the supply of affordable housing stalls.  As a result of this cut to housing, this budget risks being a poverty causing budget rather than a poverty solving budget, and in the face of looming child poverty reduction targets is difficult to understand and even harder to defend.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Angela Rayner and Michael Gove to headline Convention of the North 2024

Angela Rayner and Michael Gove to headline Convention of the North 2024

Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove MP, and Shadow Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner MP, will deliver keynote speeches at this year’s Convention of the North, it can be revealed. The Convention, which will be held in Leeds across two days on 29 February and 1 March, is the North of England’s flagship annual gathering for business, political and civic society leaders. The conferences are spearheaded by Northern partnership network NP11, which brings together local government and private sector leaders. The high-profile event will provide a platform for public and private sector voices to debate the challenges and opportunities facing the region, across a series of key areas including transport, energy, trade and investment, and health and culture. Jointly hosted by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin and Chair of NP11 Clare Hayward, this year’s Convention will build on previous events in Rotherham, Gateshead, Liverpool and Manchester. Over 800 representatives are expected to attend, including metro mayors, council leaders and business leaders. A delegation of 50 young people, organised by grassroots organisation Citizens UK, will be invited to take part in policy workshops and a session with non-profit mentorship network Power Collective CIC. Following action-focused workshops on the first day, Bolton-born chief BBC news presenter and correspondent Clive Myrie will lead a series of panel discussions and speeches, culminating in a “Manifesto for the North” to guide future work for the region and the next government. A new focus for this year’s Convention will be the recent historic advances in the field of artificial intelligence, and the enormous potential of these to reshape the economy and society of the North of England. Leading a keynote session on how the North can play a leading role in this “fourth industrial revolution” will be AI experts from the University of Bradford, Microsoft UK and Starship Technologies. There will also be a high-profile metro mayors and political leaders panel focused on the future of devolution in England, and its potential to give a louder voice to the North to champion its collective offer and make a greater contribution to the national prosperity of the UK. New research from NP11 and Transport for the North reveals that with the right powers and investment, the North of England’s economy could grow by £118 billion by 2050, transforming the lives and living standards of people across the region and the rest of the country. In what looks set to be a pivotal election year, Conservative Secretary of State Michael Gove MP and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party Angela Rayner MP will be invited to listen to the ambitions of Northern communities and businesses, and set out their parties’ visions for the region over the coming years. Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “As our unified Northern voice continues to grow in strength, so too do the challenges and opportunities facing our economies, communities and businesses. “From transitioning to renewable energy, to building a 21st century transport system, to leveraging our creativity to attract investment, this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the North. “In a pivotal election year, it is vital that all political parties listen to the ambitions of Northern leaders, and I am delighted that both Michael Gove and Angela Rayner will be joining us.” Clare Hayward MBE, Chair of NP11, said: “The Convention of the North is giving lawmakers, stakeholders and business voices the chance to come together and determine a manifesto of the North, for the North, by the North. “It will be fantastic to have representatives from both Government and the Opposition to engage with us and to better understand the opportunities the region can bring to the table.  “Our intention is to create a sustainable, healthy, inclusive and connected economy which will empower the North, allowing the region’s businesses to spearhead the growth of the UK economy. “It will be encouraging to hear Michael Gove and Angela Rayner’s pitch to the North and how we can build on those relationships.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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KNAUF PROUDLY SPONSORS THE CONSTRUCTING EXCELLENCE SECBE AWARDS 2024

KNAUF proudly sponsors the constructing excellence SECBE Awards 2024

Knauf is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Construction Excellence SECBE Awards 2024. The prestigious regional awards, renowned for its commitment to recognising excellence and innovation in the construction industry across London and the South East, are set to take place on June 27th 2024. As a returning sponsor, Knauf is particularly honoured to support the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) category. This category seeks to celebrate organisations and projects that demonstrate outstanding commitment to social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Knauf’s sponsorship of this category is testament to its own dedication to environmental and social responsibility. Knauf’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond sponsorship of the SECBE Awards. Knauf actively engages in initiatives designed to minimise environmental impact and support social causes by delivering to its customers, an accredited waste management service called ‘Knauf – Plasterboard Take Back Scheme’ through its partner Encore. Giving customers access to initiatives such as ProjectDIVERT, and Waste Wise Kids to divert waste from landfills and educate children on environmental conservation in local communities. The SECBE Awards has always been hallmarked by its rigorous judging process, ensuring that only the most deserving projects and organisations are recognised. As sponsors of the ESG category, Knauf is excited to be part of the judging panel and looks forward to hearing the inspiring stories and innovative solutions from participants. Emma Delaney, HR & Sustainability Director at Knauf, said: “We are eager to see the remarkable contributions and achievements within the ESG category. At Knauf, we are deeply committed to sustainability and corporate responsibility. Sponsoring the ESG category aligns perfectly with our company’s values and vision, and we are proud to support initiatives that promote positive change within our industry and communities.” Knauf extends its best wishes to all participants and invites industry colleagues to join them at the Annual Awards Ceremony Dinner on June 27th, 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Redefine tomorrow: GF Piping Systems introduces the new IR-63 M fusion machine for optimized infrared welded pipe connections

Redefine tomorrow: GF Piping Systems introduces the new IR-63 M fusion machine for optimized infrared welded pipe connections

On the heels of 32 years of infrared (IR) fusion development, GF Piping Systems introduces the IR-63 M, a new IR welding machine that maintains established technology while integrating new hardware and software features for faster, more convenient, and more efficient welding. Thanks to a machine-controlled process, IR fusion machines ensure contact-free and high-quality welds in sectors such as chemical processing, microelectronics, or water treatment where a long-lasting and safe operation is crucial. With the IR-63 M, Swiss flow solutions provider GF Piping Systems set out to further simplify and expedite the welding process for materials such as PVDF, ECTFE, PP-H, PP-n, PE, or PVC-U. The updates have resulted in 20% shorter preparation times, 30% fewer installation steps, and 50% shorter cooling times. The IR-63 M enhances the user experience with both hardware and software improvements. The machine features a 7” touchscreen protected by safety glass, offering intuitive navigation and multilingual instructions for a streamlined user experience. Moreover, an integrated Connectivity Box facilitates access to GF Piping Systems’ cloud service CONNECT Welding Data, enabling the seamless transfer of welding protocols and documentation. GF Piping Systems has also improved the operational experience with extensive hardware updates for more flexibility and precision: The IR-63 M features an optimized clamping unit and a patented adjustable pipe stop, both with angle markings for increased precision and user friendliness. The machine also comes with an updated facer concept and redesigned tube drive which allows flanged components to be welded on both sides of the machine. Jointing complex projects, whether at the workstation or directly at the installation site, is further simplified by the option of remote welding. Simon Worni, Head of Global Product Management Systems at GF Piping Systems, comments the launch: “Our aim is to redefine tomorrow by combining cutting-edge technology with unparalleled accessibility. With the IR-63 M, we maintain the simplicity, robustness, and compactness of our existing machine while integrating the latest advancements to deliver an enhanced customer experience. The comprehensive improvements – which cover everything from the fusion machine’s design to innovative user guidance and connectivity – not only make infrared fusion more user-friendly but have also resulted in a faster and more efficient fusion process.” Since pioneering contact-free IR fusion technology in 1992, GF Piping Systems has remained at the forefront of innovation. The IR-63 M builds upon this legacy, ushering in a new era of precision and efficiency in infrared welding. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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