October 1, 2024
Plans approved for redevelopment of former Royal Mail site at Maidstone East

Plans approved for redevelopment of former Royal Mail site at Maidstone East

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) Planning Committee last night approved plans for the redevelopment of the Former Royal Mail Sorting Office site, at Maidstone East, for mixed-use development which is predominantly residential. The development will include 180 apartments, 1,863 square metres of commercial and/or community space and around one acre of

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Work underway on 189 low-energy homes at Deptford Landings

Work underway on 189 low-energy homes at Deptford Landings

Construction is now underway on 189 low-energy affordable homes for local people at Deptford Landings in southeast London.   The fully affordable development will include 130 homes for social rent and 59 homes for shared ownership, providing housing opportunities for local people, including those on the council’s waiting list.   Residents will

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Costain builds carbon track platform

Costain builds carbon track platform

Costain has successfully trialled a carbon tracker platform that aims to standardise and improve carbon emissions reporting across its projects. The tracker, visualised via an interactive, online dashboard, will enable project teams to capture construction related emissions, including Scope 3 emissions, from across the supply chain. It is part of

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New JLL Report Highlights Economic Value of Low-Carbon Buildings: Real-World Cases

New JLL Report Highlights Economic Value of Low-Carbon Buildings: Real-World Cases

The latest JLL report details how energy efficiency, electrification, and clean energy strategies create significant economic value. In real-world cases, AI-based platforms support each of those strategies for better results.  Recently, JLL has revealed a report titled “Low carbon buildings create economic value,” focusing on the dual benefits of energy-efficient

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Local Cambridgeshire Contractor Shortlisted for Prestigious National Award

Local Cambridgeshire Contractor Shortlisted for Prestigious National Award

Cutting-edge design elements and construction techniques set project apart from national competitors. A Cambridgeshire based construction firm that places sustainable practices at the heart of its work has been shortlisted for the prestigious National Building and Construction Awards (NBCA) 2024. Spacemaker Developments Ltd, Trading as SMD Ltd, whose Headquarters is

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

October 1, 2024

Wimbledon’s £200 Million Expansion Gets the Green Light Despite Local Opposition

Wimbledon’s £200 Million Expansion Gets the Green Light Despite Local Opposition

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) has secured approval for its ambitious £200 million expansion, marking a major development in the history of the Wimbledon Championships. The Greater London Authority (GLA) has given the go-ahead for the project, which will see the construction of 39 new tennis courts and a state-of-the-art 8,000-seat show court on the former site of Wimbledon Park Golf Club. The decision, signed off by Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for Planning, highlights the project’s potential to enhance local infrastructure and boost the economy. The expansion will nearly triple the size of Wimbledon’s existing grounds, offering much-needed space for the world-famous tournament to grow. One of the key components of the plan is the addition of a new venue for Wimbledon’s qualifying matches, which are currently held off-site in Roehampton. The new courts will allow up to 10,000 spectators to attend the qualifying rounds, centralising the event and elevating the overall spectator experience. A standout feature of the development is the creation of a 23-acre public park, designed to echo historical landscape aesthetics. This new green space will be open year-round, except during the Championships, and will include a boardwalk and enhanced waterways, providing the local community with a much-needed recreational area. However, the expansion has stirred significant controversy. Campaign groups, including Save Wimbledon Park, have raised concerns about the impact on protected land, arguing that the development risks turning the area into a “huge industrial tennis complex”. Local politicians and residents have also voiced opposition, urging the AELTC to explore alternative solutions that preserve more of the open space. Despite the pushback, the GLA believes the benefits outweigh the concerns, with promises of economic growth, improved facilities, and enhanced public amenities. The AELTC is now moving forward with the next phase of planning and construction, although potential legal challenges from opponents may cause delays. As construction progresses, the iconic Wimbledon Championships look set to expand, securing its future as a premier global sporting event while also promising new public benefits for the local community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plans approved for redevelopment of former Royal Mail site at Maidstone East

Plans approved for redevelopment of former Royal Mail site at Maidstone East

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) Planning Committee last night approved plans for the redevelopment of the Former Royal Mail Sorting Office site, at Maidstone East, for mixed-use development which is predominantly residential. The development will include 180 apartments, 1,863 square metres of commercial and/or community space and around one acre of open green space town centre park which will be owned and managed by the Council. Cllr Stuart Jeffery, Leader of MBC said: “This redevelopment will form part of the Council’s ambitious housebuilding programme. These are very exciting times for the Council, and the town itself. We believe the project will be transformational to that area of Maidstone, bringing genuinely excellent new homes to the town centre. I am also pleased to see a large new open green space included in the design, it will play an important role in the wellbeing of the new residents and businesses.” MBC has been working on the makeup of the site for the past few years, the demolition of the various buildings is almost complete making way for the new development. Cllr Simon Wales, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness at MBC added: “MBC will be acting as lead developer on the site and has already secured £2.1m of Brownfield Land Release Fund monies from the Department for Local Government Homes & Communities, which has helped fund some of the remedial works to prepare it for redevelopment. “Now that the planning permission is in place, the Council can approach Homes England as to the availability of Social Housing Grant monies to help fund much needed affordable housing on the site. We are also discussing the inclusion of a health facility with the local NHS” Simon continued: “The next steps are to procure a contractor for the works, and to refine and finalise the tenure mix for the project, with a view to the build getting under way in around twelve months.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Winners announced for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction 2024

Winners announced for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction 2024

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is delighted to announce the winners for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024.   The awards ceremony, which celebrates and honours the outstanding individuals within the sector, took place on 30 September at Birmingham’s Burlington Hotel at the start of UK Construction Week. The Awards Ceremony was hosted by National Federation of Builders, and showcased 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 category winners were:  The Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction were also unveiled at the awards with the UK’s Most Influential Overall accolade awarded to Katherine Evans from Bold as Brass.  Danny Clarke, Engagement Director, England at CITB, said: “Congratulations to our award winners and to all of those who were shortlisted for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction. We are delighted to recognise the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry.   “The award ceremony and Top 100 shortlist celebrate the women that work at every level within the sector and their phenomenal achievements, while inspiring others and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field. We are proud to showcase those who are leading in our industry and hope to see more even more applicants next year.”   Richard Beresford, Chief Executive Officer at National Federation of Builders (NFB), said: “It was a privilege to attend the Top 100 Most Influential Awards event and celebrate the outstanding women and allies that have gone above and beyond this year.  It is testament to the positive changes taking place in the industry and we must build on its success and continue to empower and support our women in construction.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Work underway on 189 low-energy homes at Deptford Landings

Work underway on 189 low-energy homes at Deptford Landings

Construction is now underway on 189 low-energy affordable homes for local people at Deptford Landings in southeast London.   The fully affordable development will include 130 homes for social rent and 59 homes for shared ownership, providing housing opportunities for local people, including those on the council’s waiting list.   Residents will enjoy high-quality living spaces across three eight-storey buildings, complete with private balconies, a central landscaped courtyard, and large roof terraces on two of the blocks.  The development, led by Peabody with Higgins Partnerships, will not only help to address the urgent need for affordable housing but also be built to Passivhaus standards.   The energy needed to heat and cool Passivhaus buildings can be 90 percent lower than that of other buildings, and more than 75 percent lower than typical new buildings. This will provide energy-efficient homes for residents, with drastically reduced energy bills, improved comfort, and enhanced air quality.  The project is part of the ongoing regeneration of the former industrial site at Deptford Landings, led by Lendlease. The plan includes 1,500 new homes, 382 student beds, commercial spaces, and public areas, creating a lively community for living, working, and leisure. The first phase of the project was completed in 2020. On Wednesday 18 September, representatives from Peabody, Higgins and their partners gathered to officially mark the start of construction of this latest phase, following the completion of initial preparation works on site.  Simon Barry, Managing Director, Development at Peabody, said: “This project represents a significant investment of more than £75 million, including grant funding from the Greater London Authority, at a time when building affordable homes in London is increasingly difficult. These new homes will not only be fully affordable but also built to Passivhaus standards, benefiting both residents and the environment. We’re excited to see this development come to life and we very much look forward to welcoming new residents.”   Dominic Higgins, Chief Operating Officer at Higgins Group, said: “This ground-breaking marks a significant milestone in the delivery of 189 much needed Passivhaus homes. Our commitment goes beyond building new homes. We are focused to making a lasting, positive impact within the local community by offering apprenticeships, work placements and nurturing future talent through our work with local schools, ensuring the development contributes to the area’s long-term growth and success.”   Tom Copley, the Deputy Mayor of Housing and Residential Development, said: “I’m delighted by the progress at Deptford Landings, using funding from the Mayor of London to bring 189 genuinely affordable and low-energy homes to the local area. We are proud to have delivered millions of pounds in City Hall funding to help drive this regeneration, as part of plans which will ultimately deliver 1,500 new, high-quality homes as well as new student accommodation, offices and public spaces, in line with our mission to build a better and fairer London for everyone.” Colin Murphy, Lendlease Project Lead at Deptford Landings, said: “This affordable housing development is a cornerstone of the Deptford Landings masterplan, and in partnership with Peabody, will provide affordable, sustainable housing for the local Deptford community. The delivery of 189 high-quality, energy-efficient homes makes a significant contribution to this vision and the development’s long-term plan to create a vibrant community hub for living, working, and leisure.”  Laura Stephenson, Director at Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), the architects who designed the development, said: “We are very pleased that work has started on site at Deptford Landings, which is AHMM’s first residential Passivhaus project. Working with Peabody and Higgins Partnerships, we look forward to delivering much needed high quality affordable homes for Lewisham and for London.”  Andrew Leiper, MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) Engineering Director and Managing Partner at Max Fordham LLP, said: “Over the last decade at Max Fordham we have delivered many exemplar Passivhaus projects in the UK, including several pioneering schemes. Working with our long-term clients, Peabody, on their first major Passivhaus project makes us very proud.  It’s great to be part of their move into the ultra-low energy standard for homes.”   Jeremy Spill, Partner at RLB, added: “Being involved in a sustainable project that adds social value to its community is always a privilege and pleasure, but it was particularly great for the RLB team to be involved in the new Deptford Landing project with Peabody, as employer’s agent, principal designer, and cost managers. Delivering nearly 200 affordable, low energy homes in southeast London to Passivhaus certification, will not only help reduce running costs for the residents but also support our industry’s drive for net zero.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Multi-million redevelopment works progressing well for Sutton on Sea Colonnade

Multi-million redevelopment works progressing well for Sutton on Sea Colonnade

Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, is on schedule with works for construction of a new multifunctional building and grounds at Sutton on Sea’s former Colonnade and Pleasure Gardens site. Working alongside their design team CPMG and Alan Wood Associates, in close collaboration with client East Lindsey District Council, through the Pagabo Medium Works framework – the enhancements will provide local residents and visitors with a new state-of-the-art building, with lettable space for retail, sea view café and restaurant, along with transformative facilities including toilets and new exhibition space. Additional seating areas and recreational space will also be created in the former Pleasure Gardens alongside a large sea view deck, new beach huts and dedicated artisan studio spaces for pop up events and markets. Improved promenade access will connect the promenade via a link bridge to the new building and there will be planting and community gardens together with the creation of additional walkways. Popular nearby existing features will be retained, which include the paddling pool, tennis court and the anchor water feature. Works are progressing well on site with the steelwork and main drainage complete, alongside the ground and first floors installed. The blockwork has been completed and the installation of the structural steel frame is now underway. The scheme is part of the Mablethorpe Connected Coast Town Deal which has been approved by the Government to receive £4.2m of Town Deal funding, with the remaining costs match funded directly by East Lindsey District Council. The revitalisation of the area will provide new inward investment to the town, and residents alongside the Lincolnshire coast. Adrian Grocock, Group Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are proud to be involved in the significant redevelopment of this landmark cultural tourist attraction for Sutton-on-Sea, encouraging further investment into the Eastern coastline. “Our team have worked closely with all sub-contractor partners to carefully manage the enhancement of the existing structure with transformative elements that will deliver tangible benefits to the local residents and visitors to the town. We are moving forward at good pace and we are in a good position to deliver on schedule.” Councillor Martin Foster, the Council’s champion for the project, said: “We are delighted with the continued positive progress on the colonnade site, and seeing G F Tomlinson leading the construction process that will ensure the new facilities will be delivered to the highest quality of workmanship and suitable for its unique, scenic coastal surroundings. “When completed it will bring new tourism and income for the town, create new jobs and opportunities, and provide residents and visitors with a place to enjoy our stunning Eastern coastline from.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Yotel Announces £17m Belfast Hotel: A Bold Step in European Expansion

Yotel Announces £17m Belfast Hotel: A Bold Step in European Expansion

Yotel has announced plans to open its first hotel in Belfast as part of its ongoing European expansion strategy. The £17 million investment will see a 165-bedroom hotel developed in the heart of the city, at Shaftesbury Square, with an expected opening date in 2026, pending planning approval and timely construction. The hotel will feature a variety of amenities, including a food and beverage (F&B) offering, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and versatile public spaces, aimed at providing a modern and innovative experience for both business and leisure travellers. Rohan Thakkar, Chief Development Officer at Yotel, expressed excitement about the project: “We are delighted to bring Yotel to Belfast, a city that shares our unwavering passion for innovation and creativity. Yotel Belfast represents a significant milestone in our global franchise strategy, marking our 35th signed hotel and increasing our total key count to nearly 8,000. We’re thrilled to partner with Andras Hotels, one of the region’s leading operators.” Rajesh Rana, Director of Andras Hotels, echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the project’s impact on the local economy: “We’re excited to bring this development to a landmark site in Belfast. The £17 million investment will offer modern accommodation for global visitors while creating high-quality jobs in the community. This project will not only be a major asset to the city’s growing tourism sector but also contribute to the regeneration of Shaftesbury Square. Our architects have designed a building that is both contemporary and respectful of its local surroundings. We’re now in the planning phase and look forward to consulting with the community ahead of development starting in 2025.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Costain builds carbon track platform

Costain builds carbon track platform

Costain has successfully trialled a carbon tracker platform that aims to standardise and improve carbon emissions reporting across its projects. The tracker, visualised via an interactive, online dashboard, will enable project teams to capture construction related emissions, including Scope 3 emissions, from across the supply chain. It is part of Costain’s decarbonisation strategy and will help continue to drive emissions reductions across the organisation. The tracker is designed to improve the quality, accuracy and frequency of data reporting through enhanced data analytics and integration with technical baselines. This includes collating emissions data in real-time from both materials and resources used on-site, such as concrete, steel or water, as well as those produced from waste and transportation. ‘Hotspots’ – materials or products that are generating a high volume of carbon emissions – are highlighted to enable project managers to track progress against emissions targets and identify further areas of carbon reduction. Data is benchmarked against a range of industry and government standards so it can be used in broader ESG-related disclosures. This includes PAS2080 and carbon factors published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. During an initial testing phase, the tracker has been successfully implemented across several of Costain’s projects in road, water and integrated transport, and will be rolled out across all relevant projects over the coming months. It is expected that data shared by suppliers will be used to inform future project planning and provide vital insights to reduce Scope 3 emissions, a key directive of the PAS2080 standards. Geraint Rowland, group environmental director at Costain, commented: “Environmental data reporting is critical to making net zero a reality, particularly in the construction sector which has a dependency on carbon intensive materials and fuels. It is vital the data we are using is accurate and consistent across our projects and sectors. “Costain is investing in a visual tracker that aims to standardise the reporting process for our project teams while making it easier for our supply chain to submit the data we need to understand our Scope 3 emissions. Achieving a greater level of accuracy, consistency and granularity will give us a better understanding of how carbon intensive each element of a project is. This means we will be able to make informed decisions that not only reinforce our commitment to delivering predictable, best-in-class infrastructure, but will also improve people’s lives and help protect the planet.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New JLL Report Highlights Economic Value of Low-Carbon Buildings: Real-World Cases

New JLL Report Highlights Economic Value of Low-Carbon Buildings: Real-World Cases

The latest JLL report details how energy efficiency, electrification, and clean energy strategies create significant economic value. In real-world cases, AI-based platforms support each of those strategies for better results.  Recently, JLL has revealed a report titled “Low carbon buildings create economic value,” focusing on the dual benefits of energy-efficient buildings – sustainability and economic value. With up to 65% of office buildings globally at risk of becoming obsolete by 2030 if they fail to decarbonize, the report highlights three key areas of focus: energy efficiency, electrification, and clean energy​. The report has compiled data from over 46,600 buildings across 14 global cities. It highlights that energy-efficient upgrades can deliver significant financial benefits. “The JLL report makes it clear – energy efficiency is no longer a ‘nice-to-have’ feature for commercial real estate; it’s essential for both sustainability and financial health,” said Donatas Karčiauskas, CEO of Exergio, a company that develops AI-based tools for energy waste reduction. “In our case studies, focusing on office buildings, we’ve seen how energy-efficient tech translates into savings, not just in operational costs but also in asset value. We put it a simple way – if you’re not adopting these strategies, you’re falling behind.” Energy efficient platforms showcase immediate impact Before the AI-boom, IEA has noted that energy efficiency has the potential to deliver the second-largest contribution to cutting down CO2 emissions globally. Accelerated innovation, digitalization, and system optimization were outlined as having the highest potential to increase energy performance. Now, JLL report claims that energy retrofits can deliver up to 40% energy savings depending on building type, translating into €2,6 billion in operational savings globally​. Research studies showcase how energy waste can be reduced firsthand through AI platforms, which optimize HVAC systems based on real-time data. “AI allows us to uncover hidden inefficiencies that manual systems can’t detect. In one case, we reduced energy waste by 20% in a commercial building in Poland. Those savings equated to €80,000 in less than a year,” Karčiauskas explained. “But what’s really transformative is the scalability. Whether you’re managing a single building or a portfolio of properties, from office buildings to shopping centers or hotels, AI ensures consistent, measurable savings.” AI solutions aim to integrate into electrification and clean energy The JLL report also emphasizes the role of electrification, including electric heat pumps, which are up to 4.5 times more efficient than traditional gas systems. Combined with clean energy sources like solar, electrification presents a significant opportunity for reducing emissions. “Electrification is where the real leap happens,” Karčiauskas stated. “AI plays a crucial role here, too. In buildings equipped with renewable energy sources like solar panels, our platform can optimize energy use in real-time. By shifting consumption to times when solar output is highest, AI can further reduce reliance on the grid, lowering both emissions and energy costs.” Similar AI solutions have already shown results in reducing energy consumption and emissions. While currently, such solutions improve energy efficiency by integrating and interpreting the data from thousands of sensors, Karčiaukas shares that it can easily include clean energy data into building operations as well, demonstrating the economic and environmental potential of AI-driven strategies. “As the report suggests, the buildings that act now will be the ones to thrive,” concluded Karčiauskas. “Those who delay these transitions risk facing regulatory pressures and financial setbacks. AI offers the agility that traditional retrofitting solutions don’t – allowing buildings to adapt in real-time to fluctuating energy prices, carbon taxes, and environmental regulations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Local Cambridgeshire Contractor Shortlisted for Prestigious National Award

Local Cambridgeshire Contractor Shortlisted for Prestigious National Award

Cutting-edge design elements and construction techniques set project apart from national competitors. A Cambridgeshire based construction firm that places sustainable practices at the heart of its work has been shortlisted for the prestigious National Building and Construction Awards (NBCA) 2024. Spacemaker Developments Ltd, Trading as SMD Ltd, whose Headquarters is in St Neots, is in the running to win the Project of the Year (£10 million to £25 million) at the NBCA Awards 2024 that will be held at the Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge Hotel later this year. SMD, who deliver projects across the East of England, have constructed Oak Field Gardens, a new Crematorium in Bedfordshire which uses sustainable systems, has minimal environmental impact and implements innovative resources. The project also delivers a positive impact on the local community, by creating jobs, improving infrastructure and providing a sensitive public amenity. “We are both honoured and delighted to be shortlisted for the prestigious National Building and Construction Awards.” said Moomith Ullah, Operations Director at SMD. “The whole SMD team is committed to building long-term relationships with our clients and using our wealth of experience to bring construction visions to life.” “Our ethos is to leave a lasting legacy,” Moomith Ullah continued, “and that is why we are so proud to be in with the opportunity to win at what is recognised as one of the most prestigious building and construction awards in the UK.” The National Building and Construction Awards 2024 lead the national vision to raise the profile of industrious, hardworking and enterprising building and construction businesses from across the UK. The Awards are made up of 21 categories with entries being judged by a panel of independent and professional judges. “Sustainability is one of our passions and our processes ensure we do our utmost to minimise our impact on the environment.” said Jon Wren, Commercial Director at SMD. Oakfield Gardens Crematorium provides a tranquil and open space with a range of memorial options that make the most of the open landscaping and setting within the Bedfordshire countryside. It is a place where bereaved families are at the heart of everything with options that reflect the choices of the local community. “Being shortlisted for such a prestigious Award is a massive vote of confidence in the work that everyone at SMD undertakes.” Jon Wren, Commercial Director at SMD said. “We are very grateful for everyone’s efforts and feel honoured for the continued commitment our clients continue to make in us.” “We are hopeful to bring the Award home later this year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Leeds Beckett experts and Aggregate Industries reducing injury risk in the construction materials industry

Leeds Beckett experts and Aggregate Industries reducing injury risk in the construction materials industry

A groundbreaking project completed by Leeds Beckett University and Aggregate Industries UK (AIUK) is reducing the risk of injuries and increasing productivity and profitability for AIUK – as well as informing best practice around safety in the UK construction materials industry. The Safety Voice project was a two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project, part-funded by the Government through Innovate UK. The project aimed to reduce transport-related risk across AIUK’s sites, using an innovative, proactive approach. The team – including Leeds Beckett psychology experts and a full-time KTP Associate – have created a dynamic toolkit to reduce future incidents and fatalities. This is now being rolled out across the organisation worldwide and creating a safer and healthier place for employees. AIUK has more than 200 sites and around 3,700 employees across the UK. They are part of the Holcim Group, a global leader in building materials and solutions, operating across 70 countries worldwide. The project was led by Dr Jim Morgan, Principal Lecturer and Leader of the Psychology Applied to Safety and Health (PASH) research group at Leeds Beckett. Dr Morgan explained: “We have designed and implemented a toolkit, using academic theory and models, which proactively identifies safe and unsafe behaviours within the business. This includes a step-by-step process for developing work system redesign – the way work is planned and conducted – and behaviour change programmes. This means AIUK can fully understand the underlying factors that influence their workplace safety and are putting in place strategies to prevent fatalities and reduce future incidents.” AIUK estimate that – as a direct result of the KTP – they will increase their profits by £8million within the next three years. This is based on predicted cost savings from reduced fatalities and injuries, increased productivity due to work system redesign and reduced injury-related employee absence, and an increase in the number of bids won for new work. The KTP has now been graded ‘Outstanding’ by independent assessors at Innovate UK – this is the highest possible rating awarded to projects. A key element of the KTP’s success was Laura Jackson – the full-time Associate recruited to manage the project as a member of the AIUK team, with the support of the Leeds Beckett academic experts. Laura led four research studies, including questionnaires and interviews involving more than 280 drivers, and a highly innovative eye tracking and sleep study. The Safety Voice Toolkit supports AIUK’s long-term aim to be the safest company in the industry, and to achieve ‘zero harm’ in its workplaces. It will be shared across the UK construction materials industry to inform best practice. Following the success of the KTP, Laura Jackson has secured a newly-created role at AIUK as Behavioural Safety Business Partner – leading AIUK in their journey to improve behavioural safety across the whole organisation. Laura is also continuing to study for her Masters by Research (MRes) degree at Leeds Beckett University. Laura said: “To achieve AIUK’s ambitions, they needed the psychological expertise relating to safety and health in the workplace at Leeds Beckett. The targeted and tailored safety behaviour change interventions that we have developed are not something that could be achieved by off-the-shelf consultancy services. “The KTP has had a significant impact on safety culture at AIUK. I worked hard to gain trust with colleagues, and tactfully engaged stakeholders, to successfully instil core values, foster collaboration, and promote accountability. This has been a genuine ‘bottom up’ approach to zero harm strategy – and is the first step in a long-term shift in how we manage and prioritise safety in the workplace. I am now enhancing our strategic safety plan for 2024 onwards, which includes a structured approach to identifying, addressing and preventing unsafe behaviours and conditions.” Jo Griffiths, Head of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships at Leeds Beckett University, added: “To have achieved an Outstanding grading for the project is testament to the success of this collaboration between Laura, our academic team, and AIUK. We are thrilled with the impact this is creating across the international Holcim Group – and look forward to continuing to make lasting impact for the extensive range of businesses, public sector and third sector organisations we work with through our KTP programme.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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