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April 8, 2024

G&H Group lands Bradford College MEP Project

G&H Group lands Bradford College MEP Project

Tilbury Douglas has appointed G&H Group to provide all mechanical and electrical design and build services for Bradford College’s Garden Mills Refurbishment Project.  Bradford College was awarded £5.8m from The Office for Students Higher Education Capital Fund to transform a derelict building into a state-of-the-art STEM training and education facility

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Siemens to host Transform 2024 in Manchester

Siemens to host Transform 2024 in Manchester

More than 4,000 industry leaders, tech experts and policymakers will convene at Manchester Central this July for Siemens’ Transform 2024 to explore digital and sustainable transformation, including the contribution that fire protection systems and BMS (Building Management Systems) can make in this regard. The free-to-attend two-day conference and exhibition, which

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Doka boosts construction site safety with Xsafe Catch Fan

Doka boosts construction site safety with Xsafe Catch Fan

With its new Xsafe Catch Fan, Doka is redefining benchmarks for construction site safety. The impressive system adds an innovative safety solution and improves efficiency minimising the workforce necessary for assembly and application. Falling material, tools, or debris are a considerable risk on construction sites. Doka provides a safe, high-quality

Read More »
Developer announced for York Central

Developer announced for York Central

Homes England and Network Rail Property have signed a development agreement with McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate, solidifying their partnership as strategic developers for York Central. The agreement will lead to the transformation of one of the largest brownfield sites in England alongside other partners the City of York

Read More »
Property Maintenance Excellence: Safe House Services in London and Beyond

Property Maintenance Excellence: Safe House Services in London and Beyond

Maintaining a property in the vibrant city of London requires attention to detail and access to reliable maintenance services. In the heart of this bustling metropolis, a company stands out for its dedication to excellence in property maintenance, offering a comprehensive suite of services including gas engineering work, plumbing, electrical

Read More »
A Handy Heating Solution

A Handy Heating Solution

Shadow Industrial, the UK’s leading shortwave infrared heating specialist, recently supported the refit of a 3,500m2 warehouse in Bishop Stortford, Hertfordshire. Occupied and operated by Shadow Industrial’s sister company, Handy Dryers, the space had originally been fitted with an Ambi Rad system. Seeing the massive utility bills and CO2 emissions being produced, the

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Plans for Guildhall Theatre in Derby go forward

Plans for Guildhall Theatre in Derby go forward

Plans to restore Derby’s Guildhall Theatre and enhance Derby Theatre are set to move forward, as part of a major investment putting culture at the heart of the city. Derby City Council’s Cabinet will agree terms for use of £20 million Government Levelling Up Funding allocated to Derby. The funding

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Latest Issue

BDC 319 : Aug 2024

April 8, 2024

Planning granted for extension to major ‘Golden Triangle’ logistics park

Planning granted for extension to major ‘Golden Triangle’ logistics park

Prologis UK, a leading owner, investor and developer of logistics property, is bringing to market an additional 159,000 sq. ft. of space to the logistics ‘Golden Triangle’ through an extension of Prologis Park Coventry. Planning consent has been granted to deliver either a single unit or two-unit scheme on the site, depending on customer demand.  Located five minutes from M6 J3 and within 15 miles of five different motorways, Prologis Park Coventry is a highly sought-after location for businesses within the automotive and wider logistics sector. The scheme provides a unique opportunity for prospective customers to take full advantage of Prologis UK’s build-to-suit offering and secure prime logistics space in one of the UK’s most desirable locations.   This latest investment follows a string of other recent planning successes for the business, including at Prologis Parks Luton, Hemel Hempstead and Croydon. Once complete, the scheme at Prologis Park Coventry will bring the total value of assets under Prologis management in the Midlands to over £3 billion and the business’ Warwickshire footprint to over 3.4 million sq. ft., spread across its holdings at Prologis Park Ryton and Prologis Park Coventry.   Maria Bailey, Head of Planning at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, added: “It is our foremost priority to support activity which will directly provide a net benefit to our region. The granting of this planning application means that there are more chances than ever for the local community to pursue roles within a stable and progressive industry. Supporting the growth of businesses, and attracting more commercial activity to the area, will secure the delivery of a valuable employment site and bring inward investment and jobs to the borough.”  Planned with employee wellbeing in mind, the scheme is located opposite Coventry Country Park with connecting access routes for employees and the community. Another key feature of Prologis UK’s PARKlife offering, landscaped communal areas have been drawn up in the planning designs.     With the opportunity to be neighbours with major companies such as IFCO, Halfords, DHL, Parcel Force and Co-Op, the unit will be delivered to Prologis UK’s high sustainability standards, targeting an EPC A and BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, as well as being net zero carbon in construction.  Caroline Musker, Head of Planning at Prologis UK, said: “This multi-million-pound expansion of Prologis Park Coventry will help to activate growth of local businesses and generate further inward financial opportunities. We pride ourselves in our expertise in providing agile spaces that deliver scalable groundbreaking solutions. Delivering flexibility through our two permissions at this scale means we can be adaptable to the market and the requirements of prospective tenants.”   Businesses at Prologis Park Coventry are supported by a highly skilled labour pool and potential talent base that is ideally suited to the logistics and distribution operations, across a wide range of sectors.  Avison Young and Holt Commercial are acting on behalf of Prologis UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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G&H Group lands Bradford College MEP Project

G&H Group lands Bradford College MEP Project

Tilbury Douglas has appointed G&H Group to provide all mechanical and electrical design and build services for Bradford College’s Garden Mills Refurbishment Project.  Bradford College was awarded £5.8m from The Office for Students Higher Education Capital Fund to transform a derelict building into a state-of-the-art STEM training and education facility to benefit students studying digital, science and allied health subjects.   G&H Group was appointed to support main contractor Tilbury Douglas, a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out company, following a successful tender submission.  A 20-strong team, including four apprentices, will deliver a complete mechanical and electrical design and build for the new, cutting-edge higher education facility including lighting, power, heating, domestic services, gas and ventilation.  To support the requirements of Part L of the building regulation and the college’s sustainability commitments, G&H Group has designed the heating system to facilitate the future installation of air source heat pump technology, ensuring that all installed emitters and pipework can operate at lower system temperatures. On planned completion in August, ahead of the start of the new academic year, the renovated mill will boast cutting-edge dental facilities including a specialist dentistry suite, a prep room, six higher education digital IT labs, an ophthalmic dispensing suite, a real-life work environment with consulting and testing booths, a clinical suite, and academic teaching spaces. Forming part of Bradford College’s ambitious estates strategy, these new facilities will nurture pioneering careers in sectors that support regional economic growth. David Davis, director, G&H Group said: “We have extensive experience delivering MEP projects for the education sector and collaborating with Tilbury Douglas. Helping transform the derelict Garden Mills Building into an innovative higher education college will hugely benefit the students and support their future careers.”  Paul Ellenor, regional director for Tilbury Douglas, said: “We’re delighted to be teaming up once again with G&H Group to deliver this refurbishment project for Bradford College, providing dedicated specialist facilities to support higher-level STEM teaching and provide an enhanced student experience.” Christopher Malish, Bradford College vice principal Finance & Corporate Services, added: “This is a huge boost for the College but is also a transformative investment in Bradford city centre that also supports the wider city centre development. These new facilities will allow the delivery of curricula designed to address big societal challenges, enrich our local workforce, and showcase a range of inspiring careers.” Established in 1998, G&H Group is a market leading MEP provider. Its 180-strong experienced team design, manage, deliver and maintain every aspect of MEP schemes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Siemens to host Transform 2024 in Manchester

Siemens to host Transform 2024 in Manchester

More than 4,000 industry leaders, tech experts and policymakers will convene at Manchester Central this July for Siemens’ Transform 2024 to explore digital and sustainable transformation, including the contribution that fire protection systems and BMS (Building Management Systems) can make in this regard. The free-to-attend two-day conference and exhibition, which will take place on July 17th and 18th, will support industry in tackling its most urgent challenges and provide a platform for delegates from a wide range of sectors to collaborate on potential solutions and share knowledge. The 2024 event follows the business’s inaugural Transform 2022 event at the same venue, which heard from leaders including world-renowned economist Lord Jim O’Neill, F1’s Red Bull Racing, engineering group Arup and Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham. Speakers for this year’s event will be revealed in the coming months. Participants will get free consultation from Siemens’ experts to help address their transformation challenges, including how to fund new projects. Live hackathons will also solve real-world industry challenges in real-time. Carl Ennis, CEO at Siemens GB & Ireland, said: “Transform 2024 will host the community that is solving today’s most pressing challenges. Combining the real and digital worlds in new ways is at the heart of so many of the strategies that are making this possible. “Our aim is for delegates to leave with greater clarity and confidence to move forward with digital and sustainability transformation, and to help them discover tangible solutions for making their organisation more competitive, resilient, and sustainable. “As we know from Transform 2022, events like this create an environment that provides the means for industry to convene and collaborate – helping them to deploy groundbreaking technologies to strike at new opportunities. And it acts as a crucial forum to debate broader issues, from how we grow the UK’s STEM talent pool to how we can effectively champion UK industry on the global stage.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Planning approval granted for final key West Midlands structures bringing HS2 into Birmingham

Planning approval granted for final key West Midlands structures bringing HS2 into Birmingham

The final two major structures being built to bring HS2 into Birmingham have been approved by local councils – marking another significant milestone for the project. Approval has been granted for the design of two new viaducts, meaning eight “Key Design Elements” (KDEs) on the West Midlands section of the route have now passed the Schedule 17 process. KDEs are structures on the HS2 project identified as being significant because of their size, proximity to communities, or location within sensitive areas. Because of these challenges, HS2 has undertaken extensive engagement with local communities to listen to people’s views and incorporate feedback in the design of the structures where possible. The River Blythe Viaduct has received Schedule 17 planning approval from Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council. A 475-metre low-lying structure, just south of the new HS2 Interchange Station in Solihull, it is designed to skim the flat, agricultural landscape as it crosses the River Blythe, the floodplain and Meriden Road near Hampton in Arden. Feedback from the local community has been incorporated into the planning of the construction of this viaduct, particularly regarding tree planting and protecting the local environment in the areas near the river which are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Saltley Viaduct has received planning approval from Birmingham City Council. It is a 225-metre structure, including approaches, located two miles north-east of Birmingham city centre, and will take the B4144 road over the HS2 line, the Birmingham and Warwick Junction Canal, the Birmingham and Derby rail line and the River Rea. It will be an important crossing point, providing access to the city centre and the wards of Nechells and Alum Rock. A wider pathway to make room for cyclists, additional lighting, and replacing stainless steel material with weathering steel panels and a perforated pattern, were key requirements from local people, which have all been incorporated. Stephen Powell, HS2 Ltd’s Head of Delivery said: “Achieving these two KDE planning approvals is a significant milestone for the project. It’s been hugely important for us to engage and consult with communities as we reach the final design stages of these key structures in the West Midlands, and we’re very grateful for the feedback they have provided. “Our designers have incorporated local feedback in all of these Key Design Element structures, including enhanced environmental features, use of materials and additional amenities such as footpaths and cycling tracks in the areas around them, ensuring that we have the best outcome for everyone.” Nick McGough, Director at Weston Williamson + Partners, and Lead Architect for the Balfour Beatty VINCI Design Joint Venture, which is designing HS2 in the West Midlands, said: “All of HS2 needs to be designed sensitively but KDE structures in particular were identified through the parliamentary process due to their scale and significance. The whole team has worked incredibly hard for over 6 years to engage local communities in a process which has involved Local Authorities, key stakeholders and the HS2 Independent Design Panel. “The approvals received for the River Blythe Viaduct and Saltley Viaduct complete the set of KDEs in the West Midlands which will bring HS2 into central Birmingham, whilst contributing positively to local communities. For the River Blythe Viaduct this includes landscape enhancements whilst at Saltley, active travel is encouraged with dedicated pedestrian and cycleways separated from road traffic.” One other KDE in Birmingham is: One other KDE in Solihull is: Four other KDEs in North Warwickshire are: These KDE structures form part of the section being designed and built by Balfour Beatty VINCI, HS2’s construction partner in the Midlands, together with a Design Joint Venture of Mott MacDonald and SYSTRA with Weston Williamson + Partners as architects. This project team is responsible for delivering the 90km stretch of the route spanning from Long Itchington in Warwickshire to the centre of Birmingham and on to Handsacre in Staffordshire. A workforce of over 9,000 people and 400 companies in the West Midlands are helping to build HS2. In total BBV are building 42 viaducts (totalling 11km), 62 overbridges, 62 embankments, 34 cuttings, 28 underbridges, 11 underpasses, along with two twin bore tunnels and two cut and cover tunnels (totalling 15km). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Doka boosts construction site safety with Xsafe Catch Fan

Doka boosts construction site safety with Xsafe Catch Fan

With its new Xsafe Catch Fan, Doka is redefining benchmarks for construction site safety. The impressive system adds an innovative safety solution and improves efficiency minimising the workforce necessary for assembly and application. Falling material, tools, or debris are a considerable risk on construction sites. Doka provides a safe, high-quality catch fan system, which can be deployed and re-positioned quickly in just a few simple steps. Maximum flexibility Two particularly clever mechanisms are at the heart of Doka’s development. In combination with the innovative suspension of nets, the easy-lock system enables efficient installation via a snap mechanism of the floor shoe: A safety lever secures the vertical tube of the Xsafe Catch Fan in place; without the need to use fastening couplers. With the quick-folding mechanism, the net is folded from the upper slab by pulling on a rope. This new solution does not require multiple workers working simultaneously on two levels but enables the net to be folded by just one user, minimising manpower and crane time during re-positioning and cleaning. All-round winner The vertical extensions of the Xsafe Catch Fan are specifically designed to meet the customer’s needs: Square tubes do not require hole alignment when securing with bolts. Once assembled on the ground, the Xsafe Catch Fan can easily be lifted and quickly re-positioned from floor to floor without adjustment to the vertical extensions. “With the development of the Xsafe Catch Fan, we identified the potential to provide additional safety on construction sites. Customers benefit from efficient and simple workflows, allowing them to focus fully on the essentials of day-to-day construction site operations,” says Thomas Lattacher, Product Manager, Xsafe Catch Fan. Continued innovation Since the beginning of 2024, the Xsafe Catch Fan also features a unique solution for areas sometimes difficult to cover. With it’s innovative, foldable and EN 1263 compliant corner solution, Doka sets new standards in protection against falling objects. With few additional parts, customers can create corner units from their existing stock or get full packages straight from their local Doka partner. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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uvex to show visitors how to select #PPEthatfits at The Health & Safety Event 2024

uvex to show visitors how to select #PPEthatfits at The Health & Safety Event 2024

uvex will be demonstrating how to ensure an optimal PPE fit at The Health & Safety Event (30 April-2 May 2024, NEC Birmingham) to promote the theme of WEARability. With growing awareness around the importance of #PPEthatfits, uvex (stand 4/F20) will show visitors how to identify the specifications they need when selecting products such as footwear, gloves, hearing protection and eyewear.  Finding PPE that fits properly is essential to help avoid accidents, reduce discomfort, increase productivity and give wearers confidence. It must be selected based on factors including the individual’s size, shape and gender as well as compatibility with other items and workplace requirements.  Achieving true WEARability requires a balance of proper fit and three other factors. The PPE must deliver all-day comfort and work with the body, which means it should be free of pressure points, lightweight and breathable. It should not cause any secondary issues or aggravate any underlying conditions such as eczema or dermatitis. Product performance is also key, with design, quality of materials, and technologies all influencing the user experience. Finally, stylish design is important to help increase compliance. uvex’s Marketing Manager Clair Weston comments: “The #PPEthatfits campaign is attracting more and more attention – and for very good reason. We know that the best PPE is the one that gets worn throughout the day. One size does not fit all when it comes to personal protective equipment and having the right products is vital to avoid putting workers at risk.” Comfort across categories Visitors to the uvex stand will be able to gain expert insights into how to find PPE that fits across different product categories.  Properly fitting safety footwear can make a significant difference to comfort, concentration levels and fatigue. uvex offers insoles that allow wearers to achieve a customised wearing experience.  In addition, its range includes styles produced using a ladies’ last to mimic the contours of a female foot. uvex personnel will be conducting footwear fit clinics on their stand so that visitors can find their perfect pair of safety footwear.  uvex also provides education allowing wearers to strike the perfect balance between reliable protection, functionality, grip, comfortable and correct sizing. The company will be showcasing its latest uvex phynomic cut glove range manufactured in Germany using 3D hand ‘formas’ to perfectly mimic the contours of the hand. uvex Bamboo TwinFlex safety gloves, meanwhile, have been designed to mould precisely to the wearer’s hand contours within minutes to achieve a customised, comfortable fit. Both gloves have passed the independent OKEO-TEX ® 100 Standard, which checks for chemicals that could cause skin irritations and have been independently dermatologically tested and approved, by the proDERM Institute for Applied Dermatological Research giving wearers confidence that the gloves are hypoallergenic and suitable for the entire workforce including allergy sufferers or those with sensitive skin. Protective eyewear needs to be selected based on the wearer’s head and facial shape and should deliver a low-pressure, lightweight fit with even weight distribution. uvex offers a wide range of styles and designs and has devised a seven-point safety eyewear fit guide which it will be demonstrating at the show, to help visitors identify the ideal spectacle or goggle.  The World Health Organisation states “Noise induced hearing loss is the most common, permanent and irreversible injury in the world and tinnitus is the third most serious non-fatal medical condition”. To support wearers of hearing protection, the team at uvex will be showcasing it’s latest innovation the uvex xact-fit test system. The device verifies that hearing protection is fitted correctly for maximum protection and provides documented evidence of adequate protection. As part of its educational programme, the uvex xact-fit test system supports discussions with wearers regarding differences in ear canal shape and size and the selection of the most effective protection for their workplace. If you would like to see first-hand how the test kit works, visit the team on the stand.  Clair Weston adds: “With proper fit comes comfort and compliance. We’re excited to show Health & Safety Event attendees how our innovative range of PPE and fitting solutions can ensure true WEARability – helping workers stay safe, comfortable and focus on the task at hand.” Glasses giveaway Visitors to the stand will also get the chance to win a pair of sports glasses worn by the uvex-sponsored Circus-Wanty Tour De France team. uvex is inviting guests to answer five questions as part of a gameshow-style quiz on safety. The format was created to highlight the work of the uvex academy, which offers distribution partners and end-users qualified education and training relating to PPE and occupational safety. For more information, please visit Stand: 4/F20 at The Health & Safety Event or visit uvex-safety.com/en/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Developer announced for York Central

Developer announced for York Central

Homes England and Network Rail Property have signed a development agreement with McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate, solidifying their partnership as strategic developers for York Central. The agreement will lead to the transformation of one of the largest brownfield sites in England alongside other partners the City of York Council and the National Railway Museum. The mixed-use development will build 2,500 new homes (20% of which will be affordable) and create up to one million sq ft of office, retail and hospitality space, along with improvements to the York Railway Station and an enhanced National Railway Museum. York Central has the potential to generate up to 6,500 jobs and will help to grow York’s future economy by 20%, by adding £1.1bn GVA to the city. The one million square feet of new offices, retail and leisure uses, to the rear of York station, will create a major new employment hub for northern England. York Central will include a new 17-acre urban park, with 50% of the rejuvenated site set to be green space, along with vibrant public squares that will connect the new development to the surrounding neighbourhoods and the adjacent York City Centre. Work is already underway on site, preparing it for development, with £135m of infrastructure works currently underway delivering 2km of new roads including bus lanes, segregated footpaths and cycleways, along with two new bridges. McLaren Property and Arlington Real Estate have been undertaking initial community and stakeholder engagement and will continue to work closely with the local community on plans for York Central ahead of submitting plans later this year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Property Maintenance Excellence: Safe House Services in London and Beyond

Property Maintenance Excellence: Safe House Services in London and Beyond

Maintaining a property in the vibrant city of London requires attention to detail and access to reliable maintenance services. In the heart of this bustling metropolis, a company stands out for its dedication to excellence in property maintenance, offering a comprehensive suite of services including gas engineering work, plumbing, electrical services, and more. Let’s explore how these services contribute to the upkeep and enhancement of London’s diverse architectural landscape. For property owners seeking trustworthy maintenance solutions in London, Safehouse property maintenance services London is the name to remember. Gas Engineering Work Gas engineering is a critical aspect of property maintenance, ensuring the safe operation of heating systems, boilers, and appliances. Expert gas engineering services are crucial in London, given the prevalence of central heating systems.  From installation and repairs to safety inspections and compliance checks, skilled gas engineers play a pivotal role in maintaining the functionality and safety of gas-powered equipment in residential and commercial properties across the city. Plumbing Services Effective plumbing is essential for the proper functioning of any property, be it a residential home, an office building, or a retail establishment. In London’s densely populated urban environment, plumbing issues such as leaks, blockages, and pipe damage can arise unexpectedly, disrupting daily life and potentially causing water damage.  Professional plumbing services offer timely solutions to address these issues, from repairing faulty fixtures to installing new plumbing systems and ensuring uninterrupted water supply and drainage for London’s inhabitants. Electrical Services In an age where electricity powers virtually every aspect of modern life, reliable electrical services are indispensable for maintaining the safety and functionality of properties in London. From wiring and lighting installations to electrical repairs and safety inspections, qualified electricians play a vital role in ensuring that properties remain up to code and free from electrical hazards.  Whether it’s a residential apartment, a commercial office space, or a retail storefront, access to prompt and efficient electrical services is crucial for the smooth operation of businesses and the comfort of residents in London. Other property maintenance and repair services Beyond gas engineering, plumbing, and electrical work, a comprehensive property maintenance company in London offers a wide range of services to address the diverse needs of property owners and managers. From general repairs and maintenance tasks to specialized services such as heating system upgrades, air conditioning installations, and building renovations, these companies serve as trusted partners in preserving and enhancing the value of properties throughout the city.  Whether it’s a minor repair or a major renovation project, property owners can rely on these professionals to deliver quality workmanship and exceptional service. The Safe House Advantage A team of experienced professionals with years of industry expertise oversees your property maintenance needs at Safe House Services. From certified technicians to skilled craftsmen, Safe House Services employs personnel who are adept at delivering high-quality maintenance solutions tailored to your specific requirements. Safe House Services prides itself on delivering workmanship of the highest caliber. Safe House Services executes every job, be it a minor repair task or a major renovation project, with precision and attention to detail, ensuring lasting results that exceed expectations. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Safe House Services places great emphasis on communication, transparency, and responsiveness. From the initial consultation to the completion of the project, Safe House Services keeps clients informed at every stage, prioritizing their needs and preferences to deliver a personalized maintenance experience. Conclusion In the dynamic urban landscape of London, property maintenance plays a crucial role in preserving the integrity and functionality of buildings across the city. Access to reliable maintenance solutions is essential for property owners seeking to uphold safety, comfort, and efficiency standards in their buildings, from gas engineering work and plumbing services to electrical installations and general repairs.  By entrusting their maintenance needs to experienced professionals, Londoners can ensure that their properties remain well-maintained and equipped to meet the demands of modern urban living.

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A Handy Heating Solution

A Handy Heating Solution

Shadow Industrial, the UK’s leading shortwave infrared heating specialist, recently supported the refit of a 3,500m2 warehouse in Bishop Stortford, Hertfordshire. Occupied and operated by Shadow Industrial’s sister company, Handy Dryers, the space had originally been fitted with an Ambi Rad system. Seeing the massive utility bills and CO2 emissions being produced, the companies’ owner, Steve Levy, evaluated the existing HVAC system within the leased property and persuaded the landlords to trial shortwave infrared heating as an alternative. Replacing the existing system with Shadow Industrial’s shortwave infrared, 7 Shadow Infinity 12kw heaters were installed in the space, and the ROI has already been observed, with an 87% cut in energy bills. Taking a closer look at the project… Decarbonising our depots The race is on to decarbonise the UK’s industrial sector, from factory floor to the distribution depot. Whilst ONS claimed the UK transportation and warehouse vertical saw a 9% reduction last year, with UK business and industry still accounting for almost a fifth of the nation’s emissions, more can be done to achieve carbon neutrality. It was something at the front of Handy Dryers’ mind and, having an oven-baked partner in Shadow Industrial, made the process easier. For the company, the biggest challenge revolved around energy efficiency, which not only plagued the manufacturer with significant energy inefficiency, but had the knock-on effect of higher-than-necessary operational costs and emissions. That wasn’t all, uncomfortable workers mean unproductive, and potentially unhealthy, ones, and Handy Dryers was keen to achieve an environment where staff could safely perform to their best. Sustainably delivering maximum comfort This prompted Steve and the Handy Dryers team into action. Presenting a compelling case to the landlords, he suggested trialling Shadow Industrial’s systems on-site to demonstrate their efficacy, and convince them to sign-off on a full retrofit of the facility. To win their hearts and minds, it was also about communicating what sets infrared apart from other types of heating. Simply, the technology works by emitting focused radiant heat through a precision-engineered smooth parabola reflector; it heats the person, not the air around them. Wall-mounted and directed downward at individuals, the energy creates a comfortable and instant warmth, mimicking the gentle heat of the sun. It’s fast becoming popular in warehouses and depots, as it’s easy to install with low energy consumption. It’s also unaffected by changes in air movement, making it particularly efficacious in draughty settings.  Climate-agnostic heating With installation taking just 2 days, its benefits were soon felt. Not only were staff on site kept comfortably warm, energy bills quickly fell alongside emissions, by a massive 50% in the first month of use. According to Handy Dryers’ Warehouse Manager, Martin Walker, “The installation of the 3kW Shadow Industrial Heaters and Shadow Infinity 12kW heaters has been a game-changer, not just in terms of keeping utility bills to a minimum, but also worker welfare. We had found the previous system expensive and ineffective, especially during winter when temperatures could wildly fluctuate as the door to the warehouse was opened and closed.” As Shadow Industrial founder and MD, Steve Levy, says, “The problem with traditional, convection heating is that, as we all know hot air rises and, within seconds of being introduced into a space, ends up in the roof void, benefiting no-one. This means that energy-intensive blowers are used to syphon the heat back down. This is a fine, if roundabout method, if there’s nowhere for the air to escape. However in an operational warehouse, with goods constantly moving in and out, heating the air is a poor option. This makes methods like gas and electric central heating incredibly inefficient. “By contrast, short wave infrared heats the people and the ground beneath their feet, making it incredibly efficient.  it’s completely unaffected by atmospheric pressures and when correctly positioned, can keep an individual warm even if the door is open and the temperature outside is below zero. It’s no surprise that shortwave infrared heating is one of the fastest-growing and disruptive categories in the heating and ventilation sector.” To find out more about Shadow Industrial’s infrared heating systems, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plans for Guildhall Theatre in Derby go forward

Plans for Guildhall Theatre in Derby go forward

Plans to restore Derby’s Guildhall Theatre and enhance Derby Theatre are set to move forward, as part of a major investment putting culture at the heart of the city. Derby City Council’s Cabinet will agree terms for use of £20 million Government Levelling Up Funding allocated to Derby. The funding will be split evenly between the Guildhall Theatre and Derby Theatre. Combined the two projects will generate an additional £2.7m per year for the local economy. A partnership agreement has been drawn up by the two organisations to agree details of how the funding will be spent, with the Council’s Cabinet set to agree the terms of the agreement next week. The £10m allocated to the Guildhall Theatre will contribute to the restoration of the Grade II listed building to its former glory and once again welcome audiences. Restoration plans for the Guildhall Theatre will include a new front-of-house experience with an enhanced foyer as well as a new ground floor cafe and box office opening onto the Market Place. The auditorium will also be remodelled to increase the seating capacity to around 280. Back of house facilities will also be renovated to make the venue more accessible, other improvements include refurbished dressing rooms and the installation of a new service lift. A new courtyard will also be included in the works, adjacent to Derby’s historic Market Hall, which is due to re-open in the spring of 2025 following major renovations. Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Deputy Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Culture and Tourism, said: “By bringing the Guildhall Theatre back into use, we can not only restore one of our historic buildings but create more space for community-led arts groups to perform right in Derby’s cultural heart. “We’re on a mission to put culture at the heart of our city, bringing pride to our high streets, and attracting further investment into the city. Change is coming and what is planned for Derby’s Market Place is truly exciting.” Derby Theatre’s £10 million allocation will enable the Theatre and the University of Derby to complete phase one of its New Horizons project, delivering a state-of-the-art new accessible studio theatre and Learning and Research Hub. The Learning and Research Hub will allow the Theatre and University to develop further the undergraduate and postgraduate offer onsite in a professional theatre continuing to make the most of and enhance the unique connection between students, professional artists, participants and audiences. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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