A new affordable housing development has been officially opened in a Cotswold village. Gloucestershire-based housing association Bromford has completed the redevelopment of 14 former properties with 17 modern, energy efficient homes at Cross Tree Crescent in Kempsford. The new homes, which have all been let at social rent, the lowest
Proposed route options for the first phase of a new West Yorkshire Mass Transit system will be revealed today in a major step forward for the region’s plans for growth. The Mayor visited Downing Street last week for a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss the government’s growth mission and
In 2024, the building materials industry surges ahead with groundbreaking innovations that promise to redefine construction. From eco-friendly siding solutions to advanced composite materials enhancing durability and efficiency, builders embrace new technologies and methodologies. These advancements address sustainability challenges while boosting structural integrity and energy performance. As industry leaders push
Constructing a modern outdoor sports complex requires meticulous planning, strategic execution, and a keen eye for detail. Here is a comprehensive checklist covering five essential stages for a successful project. Site Assessment Selecting the right location is crucial. Here is what to consider: Design and Planning When designing and planning
A new affordable housing development has been officially opened in a Cotswold village. Gloucestershire-based housing association Bromford has completed the redevelopment of 14 former properties with 17 modern, energy efficient homes at Cross Tree Crescent in Kempsford. The new homes, which have all been let at social rent, the lowest cost tenure, have all got solar panels, a waste water heat recovery system and EV charging. The one and two bedroom homes were built by Bromford’s construction partners EG Carter, with the final homes handed over at the end of June. The completion of the 17 new homes is the final phase of the two stage project, which began with the redevelopment of Oakley Flats, on a site opposite Cross Tree Crescent. The 10 new homes built in the first phase, by Speller Metcalfe included four bungalows and were completed in March 2023. Bromford’s Project Manager Millie Nicholls said: “We’re really proud of the new homes we’ve built in Kempsford; they look stunning and I’m sure our customers will enjoy many happy years living here. “The former properties both here and at Oakley Flats had deteriorated over the years and were increasingly expensive for customers to heat. We decided that regenerating them would be best for our customers and the village and by doing so we have added a total of 27 affordable, energy efficient rental properties into the village. There’s a real need for more affordable housing across the Cotswolds and in rural areas in particular where local people can often be priced out of living in the area they grew up in. As one of the country’s most successful builders of affordable housing, we determined to continue developing homes to meet this demand.” Mathew Vye, Associate Director at E G Carter & Co Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have completed the final phase of the Kempsford development. Our collaboration with Bromford has been crucial in delivering these high-quality, affordable homes to the community. We hope these new properties will have a positive impact on the customers, offering them modern, energy efficient living spaces tailored to contemporary needs. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Bromford, creating more opportunities to support and enhance communities through thoughtful and sustainable development.” Bromford is the largest housing association in Gloucestershire, owning more than 12,000 homes across the county, including more than 5,000 in the Cotswold District Council area. Last month the Inside Housing Biggest Builders report named Bromford as the biggest builder of social rent homes over the past year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Proposed route options for the first phase of a new West Yorkshire Mass Transit system will be revealed today in a major step forward for the region’s plans for growth. The Mayor visited Downing Street last week for a meeting with Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss the government’s growth mission and how Metro Mayors will help deliver it. Chancellor Rachel Reeves subsequently visited the West Yorkshire Combined Authority offices on Thursday for a discussion about growth and how devolution was key to boosting the economy. Just a few days later (July 15), businesses, politicians and other stakeholders will gather in Leeds city centre to hear more about Mayor Tracy Brabin’s ambitious plans to revolutionise transport in the region. Earlier this year the Mayor set out high level plans for the first phase of a West Yorkshire Mass Transit network. Today marks the start of a public consultation in which people will be asked for their views on a series of possible route options across the Leeds Line and the Bradford Line. The region’s plans for Mass Transit will form a key part of Mayor Brabin’s growth plan. The first phase will be instrumental in connecting people to opportunity and boosting the economy. Feedback from the consultation will be considered as part of ongoing development work to determine a preferred route for the Bradford Line and the Leeds Line. The statutory preferred route consultation will be held in 2025, and the Mayor has previously promised to have spades in the ground on the project by 2028. Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “I’m committed to growing our economy and putting more money into people’s pockets – but to do so we need a transport network that is fit for purpose. “Pivotal to achieving that is a modern, Mass Transit system interconnected with a West Yorkshire bus network under local control. “I’ve promised to have spades in the ground by 2028 on Mass Transit, but we need to understand the views of the people who will use it to help inform the route it will take.” Sir John Armitt, Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, said: “Our analysis suggests West Yorkshire is one of the country’s biggest priorities for a major public transport upgrade to meet the needs of local residents and businesses – and this is now firmly on its way. “The effects of making journeys easier and reducing road congestion should unlock significant and sustainable economic growth for Leeds, Bradford and the wider region, as well as improving everyday life. “Mayor Brabin and her team deserve credit for progressing plans to this point, where now the public have their chance to shape the future of a scheme that holds so much potential for boosting commuting, trade and leisure links across the region.” Paul Swinney, Director of Policy at Centre for Cities, said: “The UK economy will only close the yawning gaps we have with France and Germany if big cities like Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire area are able to reach their full potential. “Improving public transport in West Yorkshire to better link people to jobs will be part of achieving this. This makes the Mass Transit consultation important not just for West Yorkshire but for the national economy too.” Tom Forth, founder and CTO of The Data City, one of North England’s fastest growing AI companies, said: “Whether it’s worrying about arriving late for hospital appointments or nursery pickups, opting out of a better-paid job because the commute doesn’t work, or businesses struggling to find the fantastic staff they need to expand, we know in our region how poor connectivity is holding us back. “I can’t wait to make a positive response to the consultation, arguing for the investment that will unlock new homes, new business sites, and better access to nature, entertainment, family, and friends that long overdue investment can unlock “This is our chance to make the plans for Mass Transit in West Yorkshire irresistible to a new UK government focused on growth and prosperity.” Marcus Johns, Senior Research Fellow at IPPR North, said: “Public transport is mission critical for driving up economic growth, opening up opportunities, addressing the climate crisis, and boosting living standards, all shown clearly by the evidence in the UK and internationally. “This ambition to rapidly rollout a Mass Transit system across West Yorkshire is a major step in the right direction, and demonstrates how the gap left by decades of underinvestment in our public transport across the North and beyond can be plugged. “This is not only good for West Yorkshire, as the benefits of bolstering West Yorkshire’s economy will be good for the whole North. It is a clear lesson of the high ambition and benefits that Mayors, devolution, and investment are bringing to our wider region. To unlock shared growth and renewal, we hope to see schemes like this brought forward for cities and towns across the country.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In 2024, the building materials industry surges ahead with groundbreaking innovations that promise to redefine construction. From eco-friendly siding solutions to advanced composite materials enhancing durability and efficiency, builders embrace new technologies and methodologies. These advancements address sustainability challenges while boosting structural integrity and energy performance. As industry leaders push the envelope in material science, they set a dynamic pace for what’s possible in modern construction. Let’s explore the key trends poised to shape how we build this year. In 2024, 3D-printed concrete emerged as a game-changer in construction. This technology allows for rapid and precise creation of complex structures, significantly reducing build times. Think of it like a high-tech pastry bag piping out entire buildings layer by layer. Engineers harness advanced software to design intricate forms that were previously impossible with traditional methods. Plus, using local materials cuts down on transport costs and carbon emissions. Another exciting trend in 2024 is the use of graphene-enhanced materials. Graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a lattice, significantly boosts strength and flexibility when integrated into building materials. Picture steel beams reinforced with an invisible layer of graphene, making them lighter yet stronger. This tech isn’t just about durability; it also offers incredible electrical and thermal conductivity benefits. For example, incorporating graphene into concrete can reduce cracking due to temperature changes. Such innovations pave the way for more resilient structures and improved overall performance. Self-healing concrete is a key trend making waves in 2024. This innovative material addresses one of the biggest challenges in construction: cracking. Incorporating bacteria that produce limestone when exposed to water, self-healing concrete automatically repairs minor cracks before they become major issues. It’s like giving buildings a built-in repair kit. This tech significantly extends the lifespan of structures and reduces maintenance costs. Lastly, sustainable and durable siding options are gaining traction in 2024. Homeowners and builders are increasingly choosing eco-friendly materials like fiber cement, reclaimed wood, and insulated vinyl. Fiber cement stands out for its resistance to pests and fire, while reclaimed wood offers a rustic charm with minimal environmental impact. Insulated vinyl boosts energy efficiency by adding an extra layer of thermal protection. These choices allow any reputable siding company to offer both aesthetic appeal and long-term durability. Sustainable siding solutions not only enhance curb appeal but also contribute to greener building practices. Closing Thoughts As 2024 unfolds, the construction industry embraces innovative materials that redefine what’s possible. These trends shape a future where buildings are smarter, stronger, and more efficient. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or an eager DIY enthusiast, incorporating these trends into your next project offers the opportunity to stay ahead. So, now is the time to leverage the full potential of innovative building materials now that they are already here.
Constructing a modern outdoor sports complex requires meticulous planning, strategic execution, and a keen eye for detail. Here is a comprehensive checklist covering five essential stages for a successful project. Site Assessment Selecting the right location is crucial. Here is what to consider: Design and Planning When designing and planning your project, ensure you cover the following key areas: Permits and Approvals Permits are a must-have when undertaking any significant construction. Here is how to go about obtaining them for the complex: Material Selection Here are some of the things you should consider when picking the materials: Final Inspections and Handover Here is what to do: Conclusion By following this comprehensive checklist, you can address critical aspects of the project and ensure it meets the needs of athletes and the community. Investing in thorough preparation and quality materials will pay off in the long run, creating a state-of-the-art complex that stands the test of time.
