Acquisition represents largest office investment deal in the city for half a decade Ashtrom Properties UK has acquired Central Square in the heart of Leeds’ financial district for £78M. The landmark office building transaction represents the largest office investment deal in the city for more than 5 years. Guy Lewinsohn,
In a landmark move for the UK housing market, Barratt Developments and Redrow have completed their highly anticipated £2.5 billion merger, forming a new giant in the industry: Barratt Redrow. The union, which has been in the works for over a year, received final approval from the UK’s Competition and
Construction of the new Orsett Heath Academy in Essex, which was commissioned by the Secretary of State for Education, has been completed by leading offsite manufacturer McAvoy. The 8,610m2 three-storey design and build project, which is McAvoy’s largest to date, comprises 209 modules encompassing collaborative breakout areas, a double-height dining
The Nemetschek Group, a leading global provider of software solutions for the AEC/O and media industries, today announced the launch of an artificial intelligence layer to be embedded in all of the Group’s major solutions from 2025. The AI layer is set to revolutionise creativity and productivity in architecture, engineering
By Tara Garraty, Biodiversity Specialist and Sustainability Scientist – Tunley Environmental As more buildings and developments continue to sprout across the UK, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has become a crucial part of the government’s strategy for environmental sustainability. BNG is a framework that ensures that any new development contributes positively
Clegg Construction’s project to deliver a £8.8m skills hub designed to train Nottinghamshire-based students for careers in emerging industries continues to progress well, ahead of its completion next summer, with the scheme’s steel frame now being erected. The Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange at West Nottinghamshire College’s bustling Chesterfield
Henry Boot Construction and Latimer buried a time capsule at The Cocoa Works site in York on Friday, honouring the iconic former Rowntree Factory ahead of the new residential scheme’s completion in winter 2024. Representatives from contractor Henry Boot Construction, developer Latimer by Clarion Housing Group, Haxby Primary Academy, St
Jordan Smith, technical director at Thomas & Adamson, said: “It’s encouraging to see a significant increase to construction output in the latest UK Construction PMI data, indicating a strong level of confidence returning to the sector. The large rise in civil engineering and interest in renewable infrastructure, in particular –
FPA Commercial Director Chris Miles considers the compliance of construction products and the impact the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report will have on this sector In the first article in this series, entitled ‘Inquiry Phase 2 Response – Time for change’, Dr Gavin Dunn takes a wide view of the
The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has launched a new Best Practice Guide – Walls as a System – to help specifiers, designers, installers and building owners ensure compatibility of compliant test evidence across building components assembled into larger supersystems. The guide addresses a critical issue in modern construction: the
Acquisition represents largest office investment deal in the city for half a decade Ashtrom Properties UK has acquired Central Square in the heart of Leeds’ financial district for £78M. The landmark office building transaction represents the largest office investment deal in the city for more than 5 years. Guy Lewinsohn, CEO of Ashtrom Properties UK, said: “We remain committed to strategically investing in the UK’s regional markets, confident they offer substantial opportunities for sustainable growth and long-term value creation.” CBRE and Knight Frank acted for Ashtrom Properties UK on the purchase. Savills acted on the sale. Central Square comprises 217,249 sq ft of Grade A office accommodation across 11 upper floors above 13,126 sq ft of retail, restaurant and ground floor leisure units. It has one of the largest column free floor plates in the city of circa 25,000 sq ft and houses a Winter Garden and Sky Garden with break out and entertainment space for tenants along with 128 basement parking spaces. It has exceptional sustainability credentials including BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A. Located off Wellington Street and Whitehall Road, Central Square is close to Leeds Station and Trinity Shopping Centre in Leeds City Centre. Current tenants include Marks & Spencer PLC, PWC, RSM UK Management, Freeths, GXO Logistics, Sky, Sanderson Weatherall, BDO Services. Guy Lewinsohn, CEO of Ashtrom Properties UK further said: “The successful acquisition of this prominent building in the heart of Leeds marks a significant step in our ongoing commitment to invest in the future of the UK’s regional city centres, which we believe are poised for strong growth. “I would like to extend sincere appreciation to the vendor for their professionalism and collaboration throughout this process, which ensured a smooth and mutually beneficial transaction. A special thanks goes to our in-house team, whose dedication and expertise were instrumental in driving this acquisition forward. Their commitment, along with the support of our external partners, guided us to a successful outcome.” Will Kennon, Executive Director, CBRE said: “Central Square is one of the best regional office assets located outside of London. Leeds is experiencing significant growth across all metrics, and the office market is facing an acute shortage of prime office space which we believe will lead to continued strong rental growth over the next cycle. With the market facing continued development viability challenges, we consider this acquisition will deliver strong risk adjusted returns over both short and long term. We are delighted to have helped Ashtrom Properties UK secure this exceptional asset, to add to their strong UK office portfolio in line with its current strategy to invest in core regional cities” Henrie Westlake, Head of the North Knight Frank LLP, commented; “The acquisition of Central Square by Ashtrom Properties UK aligns with their strategic decision to selectively invest in the UK Office market. As a long term holder of assets, the strategy is driven primarily by the strong underlying market fundamentals that will drive rental growth for prime assets. Notwithstanding this, there is no question that a normalised market will see significant yield compression that will further validate this approach. This will almost certainly be viewed as the bellwether deal of this cycle.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a landmark move for the UK housing market, Barratt Developments and Redrow have completed their highly anticipated £2.5 billion merger, forming a new giant in the industry: Barratt Redrow. The union, which has been in the works for over a year, received final approval from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both companies. This merger brings together two of the nation’s leading housebuilders, with the new entity expected to deliver around 23,000 homes annually and generate over £7 billion in revenue. Barratt Redrow will now play a pivotal role in addressing the UK’s housing shortage, offering a diverse range of homes at different price points. The CMA had raised concerns about a potential overlap in local competition, particularly around developments in Whitchurch, Shropshire, and Redrow’s 324-home site in Nantwich, Cheshire. To resolve this, both firms worked closely with the regulator, appointing Savills as an independent agent to oversee the sale of unsold properties at the Nantwich site, ensuring a fair market competition. David Thomas, CEO of Barratt and now head of the combined entity, described the merger as a “significant milestone,” highlighting the potential to accelerate housing delivery. “Together, we offer a broader range of homes and price points, while maintaining our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction,” he said. The integration process, expected to take 18 months, will see the two companies work together to streamline operations. Barratt Redrow aims to save £90 million annually through cost efficiencies, though this will result in the reduction of around 10% of jobs across both organisations. Despite these challenges, both firms are working closely with employees to ensure a smooth transition. With the merger officially approved and the integration process underway, Barratt Redrow is set to make a lasting impact on the UK housing sector. By combining their strengths and expertise, the newly-formed company is well-positioned to shape the future of the housing market and continue to meet the country’s growing demand for homes. Trading under the name Barratt Redrow is expected to begin soon, with the new company’s shares listed on the London Stock Exchange. The merger has been hailed as a pivotal moment for both companies, laying the foundation for future growth and innovation in UK housing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction of the new Orsett Heath Academy in Essex, which was commissioned by the Secretary of State for Education, has been completed by leading offsite manufacturer McAvoy. The 8,610m2 three-storey design and build project, which is McAvoy’s largest to date, comprises 209 modules encompassing collaborative breakout areas, a double-height dining area and a performing arts hub. McAvoy was also responsible for the extensive hard and soft landscaping, including car and bicycle parking provision, the creation of a new cycle path, new sports playing fields and the installation of a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA). The school was procured through the Department for Education’s (DfE) Mod C framework and completed over the course of 15 months, one week ahead of schedule. McAvoy was instrumental in the swift delivery of the new 1,200 pupil capacity school, for ages 11-16, through close stakeholder collaboration at every stage. First working with the school and local planning authority, McAvoy then engaged with archeological specialists to provide advice and excavation of the brownfield site. Manufacturing and ground works took place concurrently, and installation of the modules was completed during winter 2023. The offsite manufacturing process was not only efficient but served to avoid delays from weather disruption by having 70% of works, including screed floors, completed at McAvoy’s manufacturing facility. McAvoy also procured and liaised with utilities providers to manage the installation of the new power substation and water infrastructure for the school. To provide flexible delivery, McAvoy hired a local airfield close to the site, which alleviated road delivery restrictions and limited disruption. Undertaking Considerate Constructors Scheme practices throughout, McAvoy engaged with the local community through regular updates, foodbank donations, local employment, as well as student site visits. McAvoy also installed a four-phase clock on a new plinth, to commemorate the school opening. Gavin Ward, Contracts Manager at McAvoy, commented, “The new Orsett Heath Academy is an exemplary educational institution, demonstrating the strong capabilities and benefits that offsite manufacturing can provide, at the scale required to help the education sector quickly meet growing demand for fit-for-purpose education facilities. As our biggest project to date, this scheme also represents the growth and skill of our experienced team to deliver excellent education facilities on complex brownfield sites. Throughout the process, McAvoy has managed and delivered solutions to enable the quick and efficient turnaround of the school, to all necessary standards and building regulation requirements. We are thrilled with the final result and positive feedback received from teachers, students and the local community, who are all now benefitting from the great internal facilities and carefully considered external landscaping.” Steve Munday, Chief Executive Officer at South West Essex Community Education Trust commented: “We are thrilled to see the completion of this exciting new facility for Orsett Heath Academy, made possible by McAvoy’s unique approach. The attention to detail, from state-of-the-art learning spaces to the expansive sports facilities, reflects our vision to create a nurturing and dynamic environment for our students. We are excited to see the positive impact this new school will have on our community, and we look forward to watching our students thrive in this exceptional space for years to come.” Amy Tait, Project Director at the Department for Education, commented: “Orsett Heath Academy is a fantastic facility and offers excellent learning spaces to support the South West Essex Community Education Trust in continuing to offer high quality education to their students. McAvoy have worked closely with the Trust and the Local Authority to deliver this impressive educational facility which includes high quality outdoor sports pitches to support the school in providing excellent education and opportunities to students.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Nemetschek Group, a leading global provider of software solutions for the AEC/O and media industries, today announced the launch of an artificial intelligence layer to be embedded in all of the Group’s major solutions from 2025. The AI layer is set to revolutionise creativity and productivity in architecture, engineering and construction as well as management and operation. It will offer tools to simplify complex tasks and empower professionals to focus on innovative design and project execution. Yves Padrines, CEO of the Nemetschek Group, comments: “Our goal is to empower architects, engineers, contractors, and building managers by providing them with tools that expand their expertise. We believe that human intelligence, paired with advanced artificial intelligence, can push boundaries. By integrating the new artificial intelligence layer into our key solutions, we aim to unlock new possibilities and revolutionise workflow efficiency.” Nemetschek Group’s AI layer will leverage secure cloud technology to process user requests efficiently, whether they are making simple inquiries or conducting complex tasks. By managing users’ input quickly and delivering precise responses, the AI layer will support a large range of use cases, from design ideation to task automation. The layer is modular and can understand natural language, enabling fast and accurate responses while transforming and optimising the way users work with Nemetschek products. The AI layer is designed to integrate seamlessly and enhance a wide range of functions: Intelligent automation plays a central role by offering automated task execution, adaptive project management, and natural language interaction, simplifying even the most complex workflows. Insight-driven decision-making is achieved through AI-powered data insights, which guide design processes and optimise decision-making. Additionally, design augmentation allows AI to assist in design iterations, pattern creation, and scenario simulations, enabling more innovative and creative project outcomes. Those features ultimately enable better planning and execution for a more sustainable building process and a better built world. A key focus is on the user experience, making the interactions and engagements with the user more intuitive and efficient. The modular AI layer will also include collaboration tools that drive more effective communication between parties in the construction lifecycle; they will continue to improve based on user feedback. Julian Geiger, VP Head of AI Product & Transformation, Nemetschek Group, says: “We are excited to introduce an AI-powered layer that will be integrated across all our brands and products, bringing new levels of intelligence and automation to our entire ecosystem. Our intention is simple: We aim to make creativity more creative and productivity more productive. By embedding AI into our offerings, we are enabling more efficient workflows, more precise decision-making, and more personalised experiences that empower professionals to do their best work.” Nemetschek’s Vision of Ethical AI Nemetschek’s vision for ethical and trustworthy AI focuses on transparency, data privacy, and reliability. AI decisions should be understandable to users, with clear explanations provided. Stringent data security measures are in place, including user consent and anonymisation where possible. Before deployment, AI models will undergo rigorous testing and validation, with human oversight in critical areas. Clear accountability needs to be established within the organisation. Additionally, AI is used to promote sustainability and the well-being of our society as well as to help its users adjust to new realities, and therefore adapt to evolving job roles and expectations. “As a leading software provider in the AEC/O industry, we are dedicated to ensuring that our AI technologies are developed ethically, prioritising transparency, fairness, and accountability. We are committed to creating AI systems that are explainable and free from bias, promoting inclusivity for all users. Privacy and data security are at the core of our AI initiatives, and we implement strong safeguards to protect sensitive information”, adds Charlie Sheridan, Chief AI and Data Officer, Nemetschek Group. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Tara Garraty, Biodiversity Specialist and Sustainability Scientist – Tunley Environmental As more buildings and developments continue to sprout across the UK, Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has become a crucial part of the government’s strategy for environmental sustainability. BNG is a framework that ensures that any new development contributes positively to biodiversity. The goal is to leave the environment in a better state post-development than it was before. Developers are required to assess the biodiversity value of a site before and after development, with a target of achieving a minimum 10% net gain in biodiversity. Traditionally applied to larger projects, from April 2024 BNG now extends to smaller sites as well, following an update from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra). The Small Sites Update: What’s New? Historically, BNG was a requirement primarily for larger developments. However, with the new regulation, small developments—defined as those under a hectare in size or involving fewer than nine dwellings—are now also subject to BNG rules. This expansion recognizes that cumulative impacts from smaller projects can significantly affect local biodiversity. To aid in the assessment of these smaller projects, Defra introduced the Small Sites Metric (SSM) calculation tool, a simplified tool adapted from the existing statutory biodiversity metric calculation tool, to help measure the biodiversity value of smaller sites, making it easier for developers to meet the BNG requirements. Why BNG Matters for Small Developments In the word of Tunley Environmental’s Biodiversity Specialist Tara Garraty “Implementing biodiversity net gain on small sites allows one to maximise ecological benefits across all scales, ensuring that every development, regardless of size, contributes to the restoration and enhancement of local biodiversity. This approach fosters a more resilient and sustainable environment for future generations.” The Small Sites Metric To assess and quantify the biodiversity impact of small developments, the UK government introduced the Small Sites Metric. This tool provides a simplified method for calculating the biodiversity value of a site, making it easier for developers of small projects to meet the BNG requirements. The metric considers factors such as habitat quality and area, guiding developers on how to achieve the mandatory 10% net gain in biodiversity. Steps to Implementing BNG in Small Developments Baseline Assessment: Start by evaluating the existing biodiversity of the site using the Small Sites Metric. This involves identifying and quantifying the types and quality of habitats present. Design and Plan: Develop a plan that outlines how the project will achieve at least a 10% net gain in biodiversity. This could include enhancing existing habitats, creating new ones or improving habitat connectivity. Implementation: Carry out the planned biodiversity enhancements during the construction phase and ensure ongoing management to maintain the biodiversity gains. Monitoring and Reporting: Regularly monitor the outcomes and report on the biodiversity improvements to relevant authorities. Who Should Comply with New BNG Regulations? Although, updates to BNG regulations applies to anyone involved in the construction and sustainability industry, it is particularly vital for developers, landscape architect or planner working on small development projects. Developers of Major Developments: Developers undertaking major projects, that typically involve large-scale construction activities, such as residential complexes, commercial buildings or industrial facilities, are required to incorporate BNG principles into their project planning and execution. This might include measures like creating green spaces, enhancing habitats or offsetting biodiversity losses through conservation projects elsewhere. Developers of Small Sites (Effective from 2 April 2024): This extension recognizes that even small developments can significantly impact local biodiversity. Developers of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (Effective from Late November 2025): From late November 2025, developers involved in nationally significant infrastructure projects, such as highways, railways and energy installations, will also need to comply with BNG regulations. These projects often have large footprints and can impact vast areas, making it essential to implement strategies that mitigate biodiversity losses. Land Managers Wanting to Sell in the BNG Market: BNG regulations also open up opportunities for land managers and owners to participate in the biodiversity market. By enhancing or restoring habitats on their land, they can generate biodiversity units that can be sold to developers needing to offset their biodiversity impacts. Local Planning Authorities (LPAs): Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) play a critical role in enforcing BNG regulations. They are responsible for reviewing and approving development proposals, ensuring that BNG assessments are properly conducted and that plans meet the required standards. Implications and Future Updates The inclusion of small sites under the BNG umbrella signifies a broader push towards comprehensive biodiversity protection. Developers, planners and landowners must now integrate biodiversity considerations into all scales of development projects to align with legal requirements and support global environmental and sustainability goals. Future Updates and Considerations: Continued Evolution of Metrics: As the understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem services deepens, the metrics and tools used to assess biodiversity impacts will likely keep evolving. This could include more nuanced metrics that consider ecological connectivity and specific landscape. Increased Regulatory Scrutiny: As enforcement mechanisms strengthen, developers may face more rigorous scrutiny to ensure compliance with BNG targets. Wider Adoption of BNG Principles: Beyond statutory requirements, there’s an increasing trend towards voluntary adoption of BNG principles by businesses and organisations committed to sustainability. Tara emphasises the strategic importance of integrating biodiversity into future planning efforts, stating, “As BNG becomes integral to planning, future considerations for developers will increasingly focus on innovative design and the integration of green infrastructure even on small sites. By prioritising nature-inclusive solutions, developers can contribute to larger ecological networks, enhancing habitat connectivity and resilience in the face of climate change. This forward-thinking approach will be crucial in meeting both environmental goals and regulatory requirements in the years ahead.” The Bottom Line The extension of BNG requirements to small sites marks a significant step in the UK’s biodiversity conservation efforts. Traditional metrics and frameworks often overlook these sites, despite their collective impact on local biodiversity. For developers and stakeholders, understanding and implementing these requirements is crucial for legal compliance and contributing to broader environmental goals. As the regulatory landscape continues
Clegg Construction’s project to deliver a £8.8m skills hub designed to train Nottinghamshire-based students for careers in emerging industries continues to progress well, ahead of its completion next summer, with the scheme’s steel frame now being erected. The Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange at West Nottinghamshire College’s bustling Chesterfield Road campus will provide 1,343 sq.m. of teaching and innovation space. The state-of-the-art, steel frame building – currently under construction on the site of the college’s former art and design building which was once home to the Mansfield School of Art – will help facilitate the delivery of a variety of T-Level courses being introduced by the college, with a strong focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, including construction. This highly anticipated facility will also provide a purpose-built space in which the college’s students and partner Nottingham Trent University (NTU) can work with local employers on projects to support the use of evolving technology, helping to meet future labour market needs, decrease skills gaps, and contribute to the creation of well-paid jobs in Mansfield and the wider district. Over the past few months, Clegg has cleared the site and progressed split-level groundworks, and the project is now beginning to come to life as the steel frame is erected ahead of envelope works commencing. Additionally, not all of the old School of Art building has gone forever; the former building’s original stone portico feature – including the frieze, name stone and cornice – has been carefully dismantled and stored, and will provide the feature entrance to the new facility. The new building is set across two floors, responding to the sloping site. It will use light wells to maximise natural light on the lower ground floors alongside heat recovery and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems to help provide a comfortable learning environment. Darren Chapman, operations director at Clegg Construction, said: “We’re delighted to be working with one of the leading further education providers in the East Midlands on the construction of its Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange hub. “As a Nottinghamshire-based contractor, several of our staff, including me, are West Nottinghamshire College alumni and neighbours – and many of us began our respective career journeys with a traineeship. We appreciate the value of pathways such as T-Levels and Apprenticeships in encouraging the next generation of young professionals to join the multi-faceted construction sector, and we are especially excited to be involved in the creation of these new facilities.” The skills hub is being constructed on land to the rear of the college’s sixth-form building, with both set to co-exist on the same site. The site team has been working closely with the college to safeguard students, staff and visitors and minimise the impact of works on the learning environment. This has been achieved through considerate programme management, stringent health and safety procedures, and a collaborative communication strategy. Andrew Cropley, principal and chief executive of West Nottinghamshire College, said: “I’m delighted to see the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange emerge from the ground and begin to take shape. It is a fantastic, physical symbol of a growing sense of optimism and a determination to embrace technology – and to create an exciting and prosperous future for local people. “We look forward to working with our partners from Nottingham Trent University and in local businesses to help young people, adult learners and employers to develop the skills and knowledge that will enable them to seize opportunities and grow our economy. “This building will provide a great partner to our sixth-form college on Chesterfield Road and make this site a focus for nurturing skills and expanding knowledge in the very heart of the East Midlands.” Funding for the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange is through a £4.3 million allocation from Mansfield District Council’s Towns Fund pot, £3.8 million from the Education and Skills Funding Agency as part of the second phase of its Further Education Capital Transformation Fund, and £734,000 from the college and NTU. Executive Mayor of Mansfield, Andy Abrahams, said: “To see the steel frame structure in place for this state-of-the-art facility is a proud moment for the council as we are starting to see the reality of our regeneration plans for education in Mansfield come to life. “I am confident that the Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange, once constructed and fully operational, will attract new employers to Mansfield as it develops high-level, industry-relevant skills here. “Our partnership with the college to bring one of the biggest expansions in educational and skills provision for decades is one I am incredibly proud of, and I cannot wait to see the site works gather pace and conclude in the coming months.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Henry Boot Construction and Latimer buried a time capsule at The Cocoa Works site in York on Friday, honouring the iconic former Rowntree Factory ahead of the new residential scheme’s completion in winter 2024. Representatives from contractor Henry Boot Construction, developer Latimer by Clarion Housing Group, Haxby Primary Academy, St George’s Primary, and York College gathered at the celebratory event on Friday 4 October, to bury the time capsule. The time capsule has been buried with a book depicting the entire history of The Cocoa Works, alongside heritage items found by the site team during the redevelopment process at the former chocolate factory. This includes a newspaper dating back to 1980, an original Aero chocolate bar, confectionary packaging (After Eight and Black Magic from 1933), book records from the on-site Library (1973), scratch cards from 1970, and payslips from previous workers dating back to 1980. Sam Thompson, whose mother worked at the factory for 32 years and her grandfather for 48 years, also donated a photo from her mother’s induction day back in 1973. Objects from local schools and colleges also featured in the capsule. Haxby Primary Academy added a school jumper and all classes wrote a letter explaining what life is like at the academy in 2024, St George’s Primary included a school jumper and information about the history of the school and chocolate in York, and York College contributed a memory stick with photos and information about the college. York’s community-run riverside walk, The Foss Fairy Trail, provided a fairy keyring, and letters from Latimer’s 2020 ‘Sweet Memories’ campaign were added, too. This memories campaign saw former Rowntree Factory workers, along with their families and friends, share their accounts of what life was like during that time, and how the Rowntree family is remembered. Community engagement has been key throughout the project. Jack Kidder, Responsible Business Manager at Henry Boot, said: “It’s a real privilege to be part of this project, sensitively reforming this iconic York landmark in a way that will help to recapture the pride, character, and social aspect that once thrived in the days when it was an operational chocolate factory. “And this time capsule burial is a crucial milestone in the project. It marks our collaboration with Latimer and local schools to leave a lasting, positive legacy on this historical site. “It forms a vital part of our social value plan for The Cocoa Works, demonstrating both our collaboration with the local community and our commitment to maximising the social benefits for people who live in the area.” The time capsule is the final component of Henry Boot Construction’s social value delivery on the scheme. Other social value outputs on the project have included: hosting site visits for schools, providing work experience placements for York College students, and raising over £10,000 for Place2Be and Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, to name a few. Volunteers from Henry Boot Construction, together with key partners, also helped significantly smarten up the much-loved Foss Fairy Trail on the banks of York’s River Foss last year. Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said: “We are delighted to be part of this moment in York’s history. The burial of the time capsule reflects our continued commitment to preserving the rich heritage of The Cocoa Works, while creating homes that will shape the future of this vibrant community. It’s a privilege to join Henry Boot Construction, local schools, and the community in ensuring that this project leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come.” The Cocoa Works is a major £52m residential development in York – once known as ‘The Chocolate City’ – seeing the iconic Rowntree Factory transformed into 279 high-quality apartments. The project includes a sensitive restoration of the iconic Rowntree Factory, alongside the construction of a new Pavilion and refurbishment of Joseph Rowntree Memorial Library to the front of the development. The Rowntree Factory was originally built by Joseph Rowntree in the 1890s, and prior to redevelopment, the eight-hectare site of historical significance was derelict for over a decade. The new design ensures the original features of the building are celebrated and incorporated. The project team includes the developer Latimer by Clarion Housing Group, the lead contractor, Henry Boot Construction, and Weedon Architects. Construction began at The Cocoa Works in October 2021 and is scheduled for completion in winter 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jordan Smith, technical director at Thomas & Adamson, said: “It’s encouraging to see a significant increase to construction output in the latest UK Construction PMI data, indicating a strong level of confidence returning to the sector. The large rise in civil engineering and interest in renewable infrastructure, in particular – along with the boost to housebuilding – suggest the recovery is broadening out, and that the government’s commitments to investment are translating into real projects. It’s critical that this commitment is maintained, however, to meet the needs of the industry and avoid projects being paused or stuck in their infancy. Respondents to the survey noting greater political stability, while interest rates beginning on a downward trajectory should hopefully create a more predictable funding environment, enabling more projects to get off the ground. A potential issue to be closely monitored is cost inflation rearing its head once again, which developers will need to consider carefully in their project plans.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
FPA Commercial Director Chris Miles considers the compliance of construction products and the impact the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report will have on this sector In the first article in this series, entitled ‘Inquiry Phase 2 Response – Time for change’, Dr Gavin Dunn takes a wide view of the content and implications of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report. It is worth (re)reading to enable the following article to be contextualised. One of the key areas that the Inquiry Phase 2 report looks at in some depth is that of the compliance of construction products and systems and how the process can be improved, noting that using relevant, robust standards is essential. This article will look at the current process, some of the issues identified in the report and progress made in improving it, and will then examine ways in which the recommendations made in the Phase 2 report can be implemented. There are multiple elements to the compliance of products and systems, including how the process is governed and regulated, and the report includes a number of recommendations related to this. Some of the elements forming the recommendations in the report include: Current compliance If we look at the various routes to compliance that are currently available to the construction product industry we find multiple options – e.g. testing by the manufacturer/supplier, independent testing by a third party, sampling of products from the market (surveillance), and third party product certification. Whilst the third-party product certification route is often seen as the highest current level, there are variations between the providers offering various qualities such as user-friendliness, locality, project/market needs, costs, and turnaround time. However, the Inquiry report showed that too often the need for quality and thoroughness were a lower consideration when selecting which option was to be used. Analysis of the lead up to the Grenfell Tower fire by the Inquiry showed that examples of poor practice in the compliance processes led to inappropriate products, critical to the safety performance of the system, ended up on the building, namely the use of aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding. The Inquiry report states that: “The choice of combustible materials for the cladding of Grenfell Tower resulted from a series of errors caused by the incompetence of the organisations and individuals involved in the refurbishment… “Everyone involved in the choice of the materials to be used in the external wall thought that responsibility for their suitability and safety lay with someone else.” These issues can be shown to stem from a weak governance of the system that the testing laboratories and certification bodies operated under. This demonstrates that the governance of the compliance process is critical to an effective system. Applying recommendations The Inquiry report provides a clear recommendation that the construction regulator should be responsible for assessing the conformity of construction products with the requirements of legislation, statutory guidance, and industry standards. The regulator would then, perhaps, issue certificates to cover products, as appropriate, with a proposal that these certificates would become pre-eminent in the market. This would, in effect, create a new independent authority to regulate construction product safety (see figure 1), and whoever takes on this task must ensure there are clear responsibilities on product manufacturers and must also set out the consequences of acting outside the required system. To give this system real teeth, it must have the ability to set statutory liabilities and be able to enforce them through criminal proceedings if necessary. To improve the system overall it is important to have this recourse to legal action if a company or individual does not follow the proscribed system. If a serious mechanical failure occurred on an aeroplane, there would be a thorough investigation as a matter of course, and where fault was found there would be statutory implications. However, currently none of that happens routinely with construction products. This needs to change and it will need government and legislative support as part of their response to the Inquiry report recommendations. It should be noted however, that taking on the role of construction products regulator is a huge task and one which should not be undertaken lightly by any organisation, even by government. There are hundreds of certificates produced each month by the various current certification bodies and, as a response to the events at Grenfell and the subsequent Hackitt report, these numbers have grown significantly in the past seven years as the authorities started asking for more proof of compliance. To replace and/or replicate this through a newly founded construction products regulator will be a major undertaking requiring significant investment. If government decide that this is the way forward they wish to take, they will need to ensure this new body has access to sufficient numbers of competent staff in an area where we are all aware of the current lack of this type of resource. Therefore to rush into this could be a major mis-step and cause delay and confusion at a time when the construction sector as a whole is looking for clarity after the Inquiry report’s publication. The Inquiry Phase 2 report recommendations under section 113.23 are: Looking at each of these points individually highlights the difficulties faced when trying to implement a system to meet these recommendations. Recommendation 113.23a recommends that copies of all test reports supporting any certificate issued by the construction regulator are included, however product manufacturers will often go through numerous test cycles during the R&D process of a product or system. Many of these test reports do not represent the final product and are used to prove variations in the design. This will result in a large number of failed results showing on the certificate for prototypes that may bear little resemblance to the final product to be sold on the market. If these R&D results are included in a certificate they could be a red herring, confusing potential product users as to the ultimate safety of a product or system. This may in
The Finishes and Interiors Sector (FIS) has launched a new Best Practice Guide – Walls as a System – to help specifiers, designers, installers and building owners ensure compatibility of compliant test evidence across building components assembled into larger supersystems. The guide addresses a critical issue in modern construction: the tendency to design and specify building components in isolation, without considering how they interact as part of larger systems. By introducing the concept of ‘Walls as a System’, FIS is promoting a more holistic approach to building design and construction, ensuring interfaces, penetrations, glazing and doors have compatible and compliant test evidence. Developed with input from technical experts and wider group of peer reviewers across the sector, including ASDMA, DHF, GIRI, GAI, GPDA and PFKG, this guide represents a collaborative effort to provide clear, relevant, and concise design guidance. It aligns with the RIBA Plan of Work and the Building Safety Act Gateways for Higher Risk Buildings, emphasising early engagement with manufacturers and contractors. This new guide highlights the importance of early planning and clear communication in the design process. It introduces the term ‘fire wall’ to emphasise the critical protective function of certain walls, aligning with existing terms like fire doors and fire glass. The guide includes up to date guidance on maintaining the compartment lines below raised access floors and above glazed fire walls with drop bulkheads, as well as addressing how the imposed load from the walls, glazing and doors will be supported. The appendix includes a list of all relevant standards and a list of further reading. Commenting on the guide, Iain McIlwee, Chief Executive of FIS said: “This new walls as a system guide represents a significant step forward in how we approach wall design and construction. By considering walls as integrated systems, we can enhance building safety, performance and compliance across the industry. “It shows the sector coming together to provide clear, relevant and concise guidance. The core message being early engagement with manufacturers and contractors to ensure that what is designed can be compliantly delivered.” Michael Skelding, General Manager and Secretary, DHF added: “DHF is proud to have contributed to this important initiative. Our work on the guide ensures that doors and hardware are considered as integral parts of the wall system, ensuring their performance is compatible with the overall design. This collaborative approach is essential to achieving safer, compliant buildings.” You can download the Best Practice Guide – Walls as a System here https://www.thefis.org/membership-hub/publications/best-practice-guides/walls-as-a-system For further information or for any questions please contact the FIS at info@thefis.org or call 0121-707-0077. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
