The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has written an open letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, emphasising the potential value to the UK economy that could be lost without investments into planning, and outlined the importance of planning to kickstart economic growth and address the UK’s housing crisis. Victoria
Clowes Developments have successfully purchased a 35-acre site at Pleasley Hill in Mansfield. Pleasley Hill was initially presented to the land and planning team at Clowes Developments in 2017 by land promotor, David Winterbotham. Since then, extensive due diligence and research into the sites potential has been happening behind the
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is delighted to announce the shortlist for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024. Now in their third year, the awards showcase the influential women that work in construction, making female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible to inspire
A Bellway site manager from Newcastle who returned to the construction industry after a spell in the Royal Navy has won a prestigious national award. Darren Best received a Quality Award in the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) annual Pride in the Job competition for his work at The View
OryxAlign wins Managed Services Project of the Year at the IT Europa Awards 2024 London-based managed IT services provider (MSP), OryxAlign has won Managed Services Project of the Year at the prestigious IT Europa Channel Awards, which took place at the London Marriott Grosvenor Square on June 26, 2024. The
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark comments, “Propertymark welcomes the appointment of Matthew Pennycook as Housing Minister within the newly formed cabinet. Housing must play a pivotal role for the government moving forwards and in real terms, delivering over 1,100 new homes every single working day for the next five years will
A shatterproof safety mirror with top sustainability credentials has been launched by Saint-Gobain Glass. MIRALITE® EASYSAFE delivers enhanced safety performance in comparison to standard mirrors and is ideal for use in high-traffic areas such as public buildings, sports facilities, shopping centres, bars, restaurants and hotels, When a standard mirror breaks,
After months of seemingly constant rain, it’s no surprise that contractors nationwide are taking advantage of the warmer weather and longer days to put in overtime on site this summer. But for those working at height, it’s vital that they consider extra precautions and prioritise health and safety as the
Savills has expanded its London project management team, part of building & project consultancy (BPC), with the appointment of Steven Brown who joins as a director at the firm’s Margaret Street head office in London. Steven has over 20 years’ experience in project management, planning and delivering projects across a
Fivemiletown headquartered Paving and Building Products firm, AG, has reinforced its position as a market leader in sustainable construction through the publication of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for over 370 of its products. The firm, which has manufacturing locations in Fivemiletown, Toome, and Carryduff, already has one of the lowest
The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has written an open letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, emphasising the potential value to the UK economy that could be lost without investments into planning, and outlined the importance of planning to kickstart economic growth and address the UK’s housing crisis. Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “The Labour Party has made the UK’s housing crisis a top priority during their campaign and has shown a strong understanding of the importance of planning. This change in government presents a unique opportunity for planners to demonstrate their value to the economy. “I have written to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to discuss how planning can be a part of the solution, rather than the problem. I’ve outlined clear steps his government can take to help implement planning reforms that will help to ‘Get Britain Building’ quickly. This includes fast progress to restore funding for planning services, kick-starting stalled local plans, and ensuring the involvement of strategic direction at a mayoral level from day one. ”We enlisted the services of economic experts at Public First to demonstrate the economic impact of well-resourced, proactive planning. Our letter outlines their findings, demonstrating how our profession has the potential to kickstart economic growth and generate over £70 billion in additional value over the next 10 years. This would be achieved by stimulating local economic activity and creating well-planned communities where people can thrive. “We are at the beginning of Sir Keir Starmer’s first 100 days in government, and there is significant work ahead to address the key issues facing Britain today. Starmer’s party has emphasised the need for swift action on planning reform and the revision of the national planning policy framework. They will need to collaborate with planners to achieve their ambitions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clowes Developments have successfully purchased a 35-acre site at Pleasley Hill in Mansfield. Pleasley Hill was initially presented to the land and planning team at Clowes Developments in 2017 by land promotor, David Winterbotham. Since then, extensive due diligence and research into the sites potential has been happening behind the scenes and resulted in an off-market deal and outlined planning consent to develop the site. At a time when the group have been heavily developing existing land banks across England and Scotland, the purchase of Pleasley Hill demonstrates Clowes’ commitment to growth, ensuring a healthy pipeline of future development remains in place for years to come, Thomas Clowes, Managing Director at Clowes Developments commented on the deal, “The length of time this has taken highlights the need for strategic land when immediate opportunities are hampered by planning restrictions or heavily fluctuating markets. Fortunately, this is something Clowes has in abundance, and I’m delighted to be able to add another active site to our portfolio. Remarkably I’ve been working with David Winterbotham on this since I was a graduate surveyor, luckily for myself and the group it’s been a pleasure to do so. We’re very excited to get this one out of the ground in the coming months”. Clowes Developments is one of the UK’s largest and strongest privately-owned property investment and development organisations, dedicated to a simple aim: to build a legacy of strong, sustainable places that will enable future generations to prosper. Clowes and their team of professional advisors have been working with the local authority, Mansfield District Council who allocated the site for development in their ‘adopted local plan 2013-2033’, to create a masterplan that meets the need of the community and surrounding areas. The site at Pleasley Hill achieved outlined planning consent for a mixed-use development in 2023. In line with the adopted local plan, Pleasley Hill will benefit from 320,000sq ft of employment opportunities ranging from industrial, manufacture and logistical use to convenience, filing station, retail and leisure facilities. The site also has outlined consent for 850 homes with housing developers lined up to deliver the residential arm of this development. Clowes Developments are currently working with Avant and David Wilson Homes to bring forward the residential element of the development. It is expected that agents marketing Pleasley Hill will be announced in due course, in the meantime, enquiries are directed to tom.morley@clowes.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is delighted to announce the shortlist for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024. Now in their third year, the awards showcase the influential women that work in construction, making female and non-binary role models more visible and accessible to inspire others, and demonstrating that the sector is open to everyone. The shortlist features women across each of five categories, with the final Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction being unveiled at the Awards later this year hosted by National Federation of Builders in Birmingham. The award ceremony and Top 100 shortlist celebrate the women that work at every level within the sector and their phenomenal achievements, while also highlighting how the industry supports and values equality. Deborah Madden, Executive Director, Nations Engagement at CITB, said: “We are thrilled to recognise the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry. Celebrating their achievements with the Top 100 Women in Construction honours not only their hard work but also inspires others and future generations. Together, we’re showcasing what’s possible for women in construction today and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field. The Women in Construction awards highlight those leading our industry and those actively supporting a more diverse sector through their dedication and advocacy.” Richard Beresford, Chief Executive Officer at National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “This is the third year of these Awards and our first collaboration with CITB, which has led to a surge in nominations. The independent judges have worked tirelessly to create this competitive shortlist. Many of our previous winners highlight the significant impact these awards have had on their careers, emphasising their importance. It’s crucial that we continue to see them grow from strength to strength. This year’s awards promise to be bigger and better than ever, bringing together an impressive line-up of past winners and future leaders in construction to share the stage and accolades.” The Top 100 categories and shortlisted candidates are: Taking place on the 30 September at the Burlington Hotel prior to UK Construction Week, tables and seats at the awards can now be booked to celebrate and honour the outstanding individuals. CITB is committed to delivering a series of fully funded workshops as part of its agenda to support women and allies to thrive in the construction industry. The initial workshop, “Owning your success”, on 31 July 2024, is designed to help people to recognise and celebrate their achievements, providing practical tools and a community of support. The programme series continues 29 October 2024 with a session focused on the value and importance of allyship. You can find out more about the workshop on Eventbrite. Read the full shortlist of the 2024 Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction here: https://www.citb.co.uk/about-citb/top-100-most-influential-women-in-construction-2024/shortlist/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A Bellway site manager from Newcastle who returned to the construction industry after a spell in the Royal Navy has won a prestigious national award. Darren Best received a Quality Award in the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) annual Pride in the Job competition for his work at The View at Abbey Heights development in Callerton. The 33-year-old is one of just 449 site managers from across the UK to receive the accolade. Ten per cent of the winners in the annual competition were from Bellway. The father-of-two was selected from a pool of more than 8,000 site managers whose developments have been inspected by the NHBC over the past year, placing them among an elite group within the industry. Darren said: “It is a huge honour to win this prestigious award from such a respected organisation as the NHBC. It may sound like a cliché but this really is an accolade which has been earned by the whole team, with a special mention for my assistant site manager Craig Carter, whose help has been vital. “This is the first Pride in the Job award I have won and Craig and myself are determined that it won’t be my last. My motto in life is that if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well and it is great that everyone in the team buys into that philosophy.” Darren first went into the construction industry when he started work at a building company as a joinery apprentice at the age of 17. “I went in straight from school and qualified as a joiner after three years but suddenly fancied a career change, so I joined the Royal Navy,” he said. “After five years, I wanted to get married, settle down and have a family so I decided it would be better to leave the Navy and get back into the building industry. “I went for a job as a joiner but the management team thought that with my experience in the Services I should start as a trainee assistant site manager. Within a year I was promoted to assistant site manager and three years after that I was made site manager. “I joined Bellway in 2021 as a site manager and have never looked back. I was delighted to be given the job of being in charge of the second phase of The View at Abbey Heights, where we have completed building 24 four and five-bedroom houses. It was really satisfying to be working on a collection of executive homes, which look incredible now that we have finished.” As a Quality Award winner, Darren, who is now in charge at Bellway’s neighbouring Abbey Heights development, is automatically entered into the next stage of the competition – the NHBC’s Seal of Excellence and Regional Awards, which will be awarded later in the year. The NHBC runs the Pride in the Job awards annually and every site registered with them is automatically entered into the competition. Each site manager is judged on a wide range of aspects of their work including attention to detail, leadership, technical expertise and health and safety. Dan Walker, Construction Director for Bellway North East, said: “The Pride in the Job Quality Awards are rightly held in high regard nationally as everyone in the industry knows just how hard it is to win this accolade. “The judging is incredibly rigorous, which means that winning the award is testament to the quality of the homes being built at The View at Abbey Heights. “I would like to congratulate Darren and every member of the fabulous site team for their achievement and wish them all the best for the next stage of the competition in the autumn.” For more information Bellway developments in the North East, visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/north-east. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
OryxAlign wins Managed Services Project of the Year at the IT Europa Awards 2024 London-based managed IT services provider (MSP), OryxAlign has won Managed Services Project of the Year at the prestigious IT Europa Channel Awards, which took place at the London Marriott Grosvenor Square on June 26, 2024. The award recognises the firms successful work in improving cybersecurity for its clients in the property and construction sectors. Now in its 16th year, the IT Europa Channel Awards recognises excellence from across the European IT channel ecosystem. It encompasses managed service providers, solution providers, vendors, distributors and other channel partners who deliver exceptional results for their clients. All submissions are judged by an expert industry panel that assess criteria such as clarity, quality, uniqueness and value. OryxAlign was awarded The Managed Services Project of the Year prize for its work with one of the UK’s largest commercial property development companies. For this project, OryxAlign bolstered the customer’s cyber security posture across a portfolio of 32 buildings, aligning its infrastructure with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework. OryxAlign resolved over 400 critical issues across the customer’s portfolio of buildings, significantly reducing the cyber security risks. “Vulnerability scanning across the client’s network revealed inherent problems that had to be addressed systematically in line with NIST frameworks,” explained Peter Schwartz, senior technology consultant at OryxAlign. “We updated the client’s systems, networks, critical devices and firmware, and also performed hundreds of network infrastructure and firewall changes, including on OT devices such as CCTV and access controls. “We provided training for the client’s technical and operational staff, equipping them with the skills to effectively manage the new processes on an ongoing basis. We were also invited to conduct additional cybersecurity awareness sessions for all its staff beyond those linked to the project,” concluded Schwartz. Post-implementation, all new devices were added to OryxAlign’s managed IT services framework, including the new cyber security platforms. Ultimately, OryxAlign’s work gives the client better control and visibility over its network, leading to a more secure, stable and manageable IT environment. “In recent years, cybersecurity has become an increasingly pressing concern for businesses operating in key industries like property and construction,” added Carl Henriksen, CEO of OryxAlign. “This latest award win demonstrates that we are well placed to help businesses in these sectors and more overcome challenges relating to cyber security. Our approach goes beyond a simple transactional relationship with customers, we are trusted advisors they can count on to support them throughout their IT journey.” To find out more about how OryxAlign can support your managed services project needs and its cyber security training programmes, visit https://www.oryxalign.com
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark comments, “Propertymark welcomes the appointment of Matthew Pennycook as Housing Minister within the newly formed cabinet. Housing must play a pivotal role for the government moving forwards and in real terms, delivering over 1,100 new homes every single working day for the next five years will take immense planning and enormous stakeholder engagement to achieve. “There needs to be a long-term cross-party approach with continuity built in as standard – we should never be looking at a housing plan as an insular five year government term, in case of any change down the line. “The housing sector is crying out for a vastly increased supply to keep pace with demand, there simply can be no room for error moving forwards or we may end up with prices artificially rocketing due to consumer desperation in finding a suitable home for their needs. “There must be a broad mix of sustainably built homes that brings much needed stock to both buyers and renters. The plan must be delivered with precision and in a way that is connected with wider government planning to ensure key infrastructure is provisioned for as the population further grows.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A shatterproof safety mirror with top sustainability credentials has been launched by Saint-Gobain Glass. MIRALITE® EASYSAFE delivers enhanced safety performance in comparison to standard mirrors and is ideal for use in high-traffic areas such as public buildings, sports facilities, shopping centres, bars, restaurants and hotels, When a standard mirror breaks, shards of glass can be dangerous for everyone, including building occupants, homeowners and for the professionals who handle and install it. However, MIRALITE® EASYSAFE comprises an anti-shatter resin that retains 98% of splinters in the event of breakage. This patented innovation also provides a consistent, high-quality finish. To support Saint-Gobain’s commitment to the environment, MIRALITE® EASYSAFE is manufactured without plastic film and generates less waste, allowing a more sustainable material choice for interior designers, specifiers and building occupants. When retrofitting, it can be dismantled and fully recycled like any standard mirror. Made with water-based and lead-free raw materials, MIRALITE® EASYSAFE also contributes to improving indoor air quality thanks to ultra-low VOC emissions and meets A+ classifications by EN ISO 16000 VOC emissions testing (Eurofins test, France). Commenting on the launch, Jenni Young, Sector Market Manager at Saint-Gobain Glass says: “Mirrors are magical in their ability to transform a room. They allow designers to bring in light, space and drama. Not only does a mirror add brightness and make spaces appear bigger, but it can also smooth over awkward room shapes. In a social space such as a dining room, bar or nightclub, mirrors add ambience by making it appear busier and thus more vibrant.” She adds, “However, we all know safety is a central issue for everyone using mirrors. With MIRALITE® EASYSAFE, designers can bring their schemes to life, confident that the mirrors they use will be safe, and easy to install and maintain.” MIRALITE® EASYSAFE is also ideal for incorporating into furniture, such as wardrobes, sliding doors, table-tops and shelf backing. It provides a safe, simple and sustainable mirror option. To find a supplier visit https://www.saint-gobain-glass.co.uk/contact/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
After months of seemingly constant rain, it’s no surprise that contractors nationwide are taking advantage of the warmer weather and longer days to put in overtime on site this summer. But for those working at height, it’s vital that they consider extra precautions and prioritise health and safety as the mercury soars. That’s why Werner, a leading ladder and access solutions provider, has put together a series of safety tips to ensure building professionals don’t end up with a summer to remember for all the wrong reasons. Mark Robson, Product Manager at Werner, explains: “With the warmer weather finally here, there’s never been a better time for tradespeople to familiarise with the behaviours essential for maintaining optimum health and safety when working at height in the sun. “By putting together this guide for tradespeople, we’re hoping to help take advantage of the better weather – without risking their health or livelihood in the process.” Werner’s key considerations include: Creating a solid foundation with equipment: Ensuring ladders have the correct classification is important, as poorly made imports are a leading cause of injuries when working at height. This would be EN131 Professional for trade, heavy duty and industrial usages, purchasing a ladder that is to the EN131 standard means that users can have peace of mind it’s been manufactured and tested to ensure maximum safety. Undertaking risk assessments: As a manufacturer, Werner is keen to encourage the importance of working at height safely in all conditions and has a wealth of guides on its website to advise users of ladder and access equipment best practices. When it comes to ladders the user must check the following for suitability and damage: Should a user find any signs of wear and tear, loosening, bending or lack of stability they must inform their employer straight away and they should not attempt to use the equipment under any circumstances. Staying safe in the heat: When focusing on getting the job done, it’s all too easy to forget to hydrate, which can cause dehydration and severe heatstroke. Alone, this is a huge risk to health. However, for those working at height a lack of hydration can mean danger is increased, due to the risk of falls if feeling drowsy, dizzy, or weak. Drinking water at regular intervals helps to cool the body’s temperature and replaces the fluid that may be lost through sweating, reducing the risk of heat exhaustion, so it’s important to have fresh water readily available for all working on site. Additionally, it is suggested that all workers to get a CPR certificate to be prepared for possible emergencies during working hours. Wear sunscreen: For those working outside and at height, sunscreen should be worn all year round. Even on cool or overcast days, harmful UV rays still penetrate cloud – and prolonged exposure to them can increase a person’s risk of developing skin cancer. The Health and Safety Executive found that construction workers are among the most ‘at risk’ of developing this form of cancer, so layering up with sunscreen is essential. Wear suitable clothing: Using the PPE required to undertake a specific job is essential, so while it may be hot it is important not to make choices that will put safety at risk. However, there are types of clothing that can be worn to ensure maximum comfort when working at height in the heat. Clothing made from natural fibres, like cotton and linen, are made from compounds that allow the skin to breathe. Darker colours like navy and black absorb more heat. In contrast, whites and beiges deflect the sun’s wavelengths making them the most suitable choice in extreme temperatures. For broader information on ladder safety, which includes guides on how to choose the correct ladder for the task at hand, how to correctly inspect equipment and for general working from height guidance, visit: https://www.wernerco.com/uk/ladder-safety. For further information about Werner’s range of ladders, access solutions and training visit: www.wernerco.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Savills has expanded its London project management team, part of building & project consultancy (BPC), with the appointment of Steven Brown who joins as a director at the firm’s Margaret Street head office in London. Steven has over 20 years’ experience in project management, planning and delivering projects across a wide range of sectors and disciplines in the UK, Middle East and Australian markets. More recently he has specialised in multifamily build to rent (BtR) developments, working with clients including British Land, Get Living, Grainger and Grosvenor Estates. Steven joins from Arcadis, where he was a senior project director within the firm’s property and investment business. At Savills, Steven will lead the division’s London living sector team, focusing on residential, built to rent, hospitality and purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) asset classes. Steven Brown comments: “I am delighted to have joined Savills to head-up this exciting new growth area for the division. As we know, confidence is returning in the living sector after a period of sustained cost inflation, constraints on finance and regulatory uncertainty. I believe Savills, as a market leader in residential asset advisory services, is the ideal platform to support investor and developer clients through the project feasibility, design and construction phases of their developments. I look forward to working with colleagues from across the business to bring together in-depth real estate expertise and best-in-class project management services.” Paul Davies, head of London project management at Savills, adds: “We are very pleased to welcome Steven to Savills. The living sector is a huge area of growth for the BPC division and with Steven’s knowledge and expertise we will considerably increase our capability to service these clients moving forward. It is fantastic that the team continues to go from strength to strength and we look forward to further expansion imminently.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Fivemiletown headquartered Paving and Building Products firm, AG, has reinforced its position as a market leader in sustainable construction through the publication of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for over 370 of its products. The firm, which has manufacturing locations in Fivemiletown, Toome, and Carryduff, already has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry and is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its operations to an absolute minimum. Created to encourage transparency across the construction industry, an EPD is a standardised formal document that quantifies a product’s environmental impact. It is based on a detailed life cycle assessment and verified by an accredited third party. Recently awarded Sustainable Manufacturing Business of the Year at the prestigious Business Eye Awards, AG’s EPDs reflect the company’s dedication to innovation and its ongoing carbon reduction efforts. Michael Davies, Head of Innovation and Carbon Reduction at AG said: “For many years, we have worked tirelessly to reduce our environmental impact and we are delighted to publish our Environmental Product Declarations.” “A reflection of the continuous innovation we’ve employed to date, our EPDs will provide our customers with essential data that will enhance the sustainability credentials of their projects and provide them with a comprehensive overview of their scheme. We are extremely proud to be able to say that our facilities and products boast some of the industry’s lowest embodied carbon statistics.” From 2019 to 2023, AG reported a 47.8% reduction in its Scope 1 and 2 emissions, a significant achievement considering the firm’s extended operational hours and the construction of a new £3 million factory in 2023 to meet increased product demand. Additionally, AG reduced its Scope 3 emissions by 4.67% from 2021, underscoring its commitment to a greener future in construction. Verified by EPD Hub, AG’s Environmental Product Declarations represent the latest in the firm’s series of sustainability initiatives. These efforts include a longstanding commitment to producing a significant portion of their product range using recycled aggregate and locally quarried materials. AG’s commitment to energy efficiency is reinforced through regular reviews of its systems and procedures, driving continuous improvement. As part of its CSR strategy, the company has recently made a significant investment of over £5.4 million to modernise its plant, equipment, and technology, underscoring its dedication to sustainable practices and cutting-edge innovation. AG’s CEO, Stephen Acheson commented, “At AG, sustainability isn’t merely a responsibility but a guiding principle that fuels our innovation and shapes our operations. Our EPDs mark a major milestone in our journey to reduce carbon emissions, providing transparent and comprehensive insights into the environmental footprint of our products. These documents and the data they contain underscore our commitment to creating high-quality, sustainable products, solidifying AG’s reputation as a leader in low-carbon solutions.” For more information about AG, please visit ag.uk.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
