TGI Fridays is set to close 35 of its UK branches following a recent rescue deal, despite efforts to save the struggling restaurant chain. The closures come after Hostmore, the former owner of TGI Fridays UK, fell into administration last month. The rescue deal sees Breal Capital and Calveton UK,
USW’s new Chiropractic Clinic, being built on Treforest Campus, has reached a major milestone with the completion of its main structure. Kier Construction, the contractors appointed to build the clinic, and USW hosted a ‘topping out ceremony’ to celebrate the progress of the project, as the building reached its highest
Westminster City Council have appointed award-winning property management agent Rendall & Rittner to manage the first phase of homes being delivered under the ambitious regeneration of the Ebury Bridge estate in Knightsbridge and Belgravia. Comprising 226 homes in the first phase, alongside a business hub, concierge service, and reimagined public
GMI Construction Group is partnering with spatial computing and AI provider SimplyVideo, Leeds Beckett University, and software developer Anglestack as part of a £1m Innovate UK initiative to create an interactive digital platform to access key elements of the complex legislation contained within the new Building Safety Act. The incorporation
Triton Construction has announced significant progress on its £10 million contract to deliver 85,000 sq ft of industrial space at the Evolve development in Melton West, East Yorkshire, for Wykeland Group. The project, part of the Melton West business park, includes the design and construction of seven industrial units, alongside
MC Construction has completed work on a multimillion-pound school extension in Cheshire to create additional places for children with severe learning difficulties and complex needs. The scheme at Springfield School in Crewe will help address an urgent need for extra provision in the Cheshire East area, with demand at an
AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear company with offices around the world, has released its latest Construction Intelligence Report for Q4 2024, which points towards a more stable and productive period for the sector going into 2025. However, it cautions that output may still be limited due to inflationary
Students, who are looking for a field with a large spectrum of jobs are recommended to take interest in real estate and property management. A field in property management is best for anyone who is interested in working with people, managing assets, and analysing markets. Students can gain an in-depth
Even a minor plumbing issue can quickly become a major inconvenience in your home or business. Whether you find a leaking faucet or experience an awful smell from the outside drain, you need a reputable plumbing company to fix the issue before it worsens. With so many options in St.
TGI Fridays is set to close 35 of its UK branches following a recent rescue deal, despite efforts to save the struggling restaurant chain. The closures come after Hostmore, the former owner of TGI Fridays UK, fell into administration last month. The rescue deal sees Breal Capital and Calveton UK, owners of the D&D London restaurant group, acquiring TGI Fridays UK. While 51 branches will remain open, administrators Teneo have confirmed that 35 restaurants will be shut down immediately as part of the restructuring plan. However, TGI Fridays UK remains hopeful that negotiations with landlords may save some of the closed locations. Julie McEwan, Chief Executive of TGI Fridays UK, expressed optimism for the brand’s future. “TGI Fridays is a much-loved brand with a rich heritage. Today marks the beginning of a positive future for our business, following what has been a very challenging time for the entire casual dining sector,” she said. McEwan also acknowledged the unfortunate impact on the chain’s employees. “We are devastated for our colleagues who will be leaving, and we thank them for their loyalty and contribution. We are doing everything we can to retain as many of our team as possible and to support those affected.” Hostmore’s collapse followed a sharp decline in its share price, which plummeted by over 90% after the company announced it expected to be “wound up” and de-listed following the completion of the restaurant sale. Hostmore had previously agreed to a £177 million deal to acquire its US-based parent company in April. However, the acquisition fell through when the American group lost control of TGIF Funding, the entity holding the franchise agreement royalties. Despite the difficult period, TGI Fridays UK remains confident in its ability to weather the storm, with plans to revitalise the brand and attract both loyal customers and new guests in the months ahead. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
USW’s new Chiropractic Clinic, being built on Treforest Campus, has reached a major milestone with the completion of its main structure. Kier Construction, the contractors appointed to build the clinic, and USW hosted a ‘topping out ceremony’ to celebrate the progress of the project, as the building reached its highest point. Set to be completed in spring 2025, the clinic will replace the current facility at the William Price Business Park, bringing together all learning, teaching and practical elements on to the same site for the first time since USW’s Master of Chiropractic (MChiro) degree course started in 1997. Designed by a team of architects from Cardiff-based Stride Treglown, the 975 sqm, two-storey building will include 26 treatment rooms, DXA (bone density) and ultrasound scan rooms, a seminar room and support spaces for students and colleagues, among many more facilities. Quantum CLS, a project management and quantity surveying consultancy based in Cardiff, are also working on the project as cost consultants on its commercial matters. Quantum CLS employ several USW graduates who are actively engaged in the build and are providing essential support to the project team. It is being constructed with sustainability at the heart of the design to ensure that the building is as resilient and energy efficient as possible, supporting USW’s goal to becoming carbon neutral by 2040. This includes installing solar panels and developing a Blue / Green roof – a flat roof that stores rainwater and allows it to be dispersed slowly into the drain network, keeping the building cool as well as supporting wildlife. The Clinic building has now been weatherproofed, using a steel framing system and specialist cladding, and its windows have been installed. This will allow Kier to progress with the internal works, including the putting up internal walls, full mechanical and electrical installation and LED lighting. Mark Milton, USW Chief Operating Officer, said: “USW is very proud of this development. Our Chiropractic Clinic is a very successful educational institute, teaching close to 100 students a year the essential skills and knowledge to be a good, caring practitioner. “These students come from around the world to study with us and yet the 25,000 treatments they offer in a year primarily support the local community. The value offered by this new facility will be immeasurable in providing a modern, integrated, fit-for-purpose study environment. Our construction partners, Kier, have been great in the way that they have worked with us in delivering a good build and safely managing a complex site on an active university campus.” Jason Taylor, regional director at Kier Construction Western & Wales, said: “The completion of the main structure marks a significant milestone for this project and is one we are incredibly proud to have reached. We are thrilled to be continuing our relationship with the University of South Wales, having previously delivered the Sport Park in Pontypridd.” Jaren Cervantes, a second year Civil Engineering student at USW, undertook a two-month placement with Kier over the summer, which involved ensuring work was being done safely, on schedule and according to design drawings. As part of this, he completed progress reports on the work by each subcontractor, tracked deliveries, and ensured safety signage and fencing was in place around the site to help prevent accidents. He said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Kier on site. Everyone, from the project team to subcontractors, were very welcoming, helpful and happy to answer my questions. It was very insightful as I was able to watch the building’s progress and gain a deeper understanding of how the construction process works.” The Clinic is expected to welcome new patients from summer 2025 Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Westminster City Council have appointed award-winning property management agent Rendall & Rittner to manage the first phase of homes being delivered under the ambitious regeneration of the Ebury Bridge estate in Knightsbridge and Belgravia. Comprising 226 homes in the first phase, alongside a business hub, concierge service, and reimagined public realm, Rendall & Rittner was recently appointed to deliver full management and mobilisation services. Developed in collaboration with the existing Ebury Bridge community, the renewal is set to deliver more high-quality affordable housing with a focus on sustainability. In addition to replacement homes for existing tenants, the first phase incorporates market sale, intermediate ownership, and social rent apartments. The first handovers at the development are expected to begin from October 2024. Daniel Steer, Director at Rendall & Rittner comments: “The Ebury Bridge redevelopment has placed resident needs at its heart. We are therefore proud to be able to extend this community focus with our customer-centric approach to property management. We are also delighted to be strengthening our relationship with Westminster City Council and we look forward to welcoming the first residents to Ebury Bridge.” With a portfolio of over 80,000 homes, Rendall & Rittner has cemented itself as one of the nation’s leading property management agents. With over 30 years of experience operating within the industry, Rendall & Rittner has a reputation for driving change and innovation within the sector to enhance the experience of clients, customers, and residents. Find out more about Rendall & Rittner’s London service offering at: https://www.rendallandrittner.co.uk/about-us/our-regions/london/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GMI Construction Group is partnering with spatial computing and AI provider SimplyVideo, Leeds Beckett University, and software developer Anglestack as part of a £1m Innovate UK initiative to create an interactive digital platform to access key elements of the complex legislation contained within the new Building Safety Act. The incorporation of artificial intelligence into the platform ensures relevant safety regulations can be matched directly to specific types and stages of construction projects – ensuring consistent and efficient compliance by all parties involved while at the same time reducing the risk of oversight. Central to the initiative is the support of the “Golden Thread” concept, which provides a clear and complete record-keeping system which meticulously tracks all aspects of a building’s design, construction, and maintenance throughout its entire lifecycle, ensuring transparency and accountability. GMI Construction Group is investing in this project, highlighting its commitment to innovation and safety in the construction sector. Once fully assessed, this solution has the potential to be rolled out industry-wide, revolutionising the way safety compliance is accessed and managed. The project is also funded by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the UK’s innovation agency, which drives productivity and economic growth by supporting businesses to develop and realise the potential of new ideas. The platform will be accessible through a web app, mobile app, and smart glasses for site workers, as well as virtual reality (VR) Meta headsets via Microsoft’s immersive Mesh environment, enabling users to immerse themselves within a digital representation of the construction project. This VR Microsoft Mesh experience will include access to AI providing regulation information, Golden Thread information, and critical safety information, further enhancing understanding and engagement. Covering a wide spectrum of development and construction, including residential, office spaces, major manufacturing and logistics hubs, care homes, and hospitals, the resource could have a profound impact across the construction industry. The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced significant changes to the building control process, focusing on higher-risk structures and enhancing the competence of those overseeing, managing, and executing construction projects. Thomas West, Group Services Director at GMI Construction Group, said: “This collaboration is a game-changer for the business and builds upon the wider digital transformation that has taken place in GMI over recent years. By integrating AI with cutting-edge software solutions, we can provide our employees with immediate access to crucial regulatory information. This will not only streamline the compliance processes but also bring clarity, enhancing understanding and engagement for all those involved.” Alex Deighton, CEO of Leeds-based SimplyVideo, which is involved in the development of AI, smart glasses and VR using Microsoft Mesh, said: “We are combining both AI and spatial computing cutting edge technologies in a truly exciting way, to aid the construction industry in being compliant with the new BSA Regulation. Using AI to search both BSA regulation and Golden Thread information will save hours for construction professionals. Being able to access the AI and information in Smart Glasses and VR will be a gamechanger.” Dr Jamiu A Dauda, a Chartered Building Engineer and Senior Lecturer at Leeds Beckett University, said “The proposed i-GBSM platform will be groundbreaking, representing a pivotal advancement in supporting building safety compliance. By harnessing state-of-the-art technology, we’re empowering stakeholders to navigate complex regulations more effectively, facilitating the comprehensive realisation of the Golden Thread’s advantages across various infrastructure and building.” Omolola Arawomo, Director of Anglestack, said: “At Anglestack, our focus has always been on leveraging advanced software solutions to address the most pressing challenges in the construction industry and beyond. This project represents a significant leap towards ensuring that compliance with the Building Safety Act is not just a regulatory obligation but a streamlined, and intuitive process. By integrating this software with AI-driven insights, we are helping to create a platform that will transform how safety information is accessed, understood, and applied across the entire lifecycle of a building project.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Triton Construction has announced significant progress on its £10 million contract to deliver 85,000 sq ft of industrial space at the Evolve development in Melton West, East Yorkshire, for Wykeland Group. The project, part of the Melton West business park, includes the design and construction of seven industrial units, alongside essential drainage and external works. The site will feature two larger units of 37,000 sq ft and 22,900 sq ft, plus a terrace of five smaller units, each 5,000 sq ft. The steel framework for one of the three main units is nearly complete, with cladding set to begin shortly. Incorporating sustainable features, the Evolve development is equipped with rooftop solar panels, green living walls, and fast electric vehicle charging stations, ensuring the project aligns with modern eco-friendly standards. Paul Clarkson, Managing Director of Triton Construction, shared his enthusiasm for the project: “We’re excited to be working with Wykeland on a development that will create new business opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the East Riding. Our experience in delivering high-quality commercial developments makes us proud to be a part of the ongoing evolution of Melton West business park.” Looking ahead to 2024, when Triton celebrates its 20th anniversary, Clarkson noted that the Evolve project is a testament to the company’s expertise. “This kind of project demonstrates our capabilities in commercial development, and we’re thrilled to continue our work in the region.” Triton Construction has enjoyed a prosperous 2024, completing notable projects such as SPAR stores in Nafferton and Middlesbrough, as well as St George’s Retail Park in Middleton, Leeds. The firm has also commenced construction on several key developments, including the Cadet Training Centre in Beckingham, Brighouse Market, Barnsley and Preston Youth Zone, and a new teaching block in Huddersfield. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MC Construction has completed work on a multimillion-pound school extension in Cheshire to create additional places for children with severe learning difficulties and complex needs. The scheme at Springfield School in Crewe will help address an urgent need for extra provision in the Cheshire East area, with demand at an all-time high. MC Construction, working on behalf of longstanding client Cheshire East Council, built a wrap-around extension to the existing sports pavilion to create eight additional classrooms, new ancillary spaces including calm rooms, a sensory room and a therapy room, along with new hygiene suites and toilets, and improved kitchen facilities. A ceremony to mark the official opening was attended by pupils, staff, MC Construction team members involved in the project, local councillors and Cllr Sally Graham, deputy mayor of Crewe. Springfield School, whose motto is ‘Every day is a new chance to shine’, caters for pupils aged from four to 19 with severe learning difficulties and complex needs, including autism. It is rated as outstanding by Ofsted and was named 2022 School of the Year at the National Schools Awards. The expansion of Springfield School increases its capacity from 170 to 250 pupils. During the works at Springfield, MC Construction supported the school with a variety of social value initiatives. These included drawing competitions, creating a suite of awards to recognise pupil progress, environmental projects and the creation of a forest school area. On Friday, October 25, a team of 16 volunteers from MC Construction, consultants who worked on the extension project and council representatives will take part in a volunteer day to work on the new forest school. Lisa Hodgkison, headteacher at Springfield School, said: “Our new extension enables us to greatly improve and expand our educational provision for those children who require specialist support. We have moved our secondary and sixth-form pupils into the new block, creating more space in the main body of the school. “This fantastic expansion offers our pupils new, larger classrooms and direct access to the sports facilities alongside a new food technology room. Pupils love the feel of the new high school and what it has to offer.” MC Construction’s contract with Cheshire East Council was procured through the North West Construction Hub framework. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
AtkinsRéalis, a world-class engineering services and nuclear company with offices around the world, has released its latest Construction Intelligence Report for Q4 2024, which points towards a more stable and productive period for the sector going into 2025. However, it cautions that output may still be limited due to inflationary pressures and delays in planning impacting schemes. Analysis of the sector by the professional services experts suggests there is growing optimism that output and investment will continue to rise in 2025, due to a more construction-friendly government with plans for reform of the planning system and a longer-term strategy for infrastructure driving activity. As a result, AtkinsRéalis has issued its forecast for Tender Price Inflation*, the measure used to demonstrate the trend of contractors’ pricing levels in accepted tenders, which includes allowances for output cost rises caused by materials, plant and labour. Following a lull in costs over the past year, AtkinsRéalis is forecasting a TPI of 3% nationally for the next 12 months (up from 2.25% for 2024), as increased activity will drive up tender prices. Max Wilkes, associate director for AtkinsRéalis’ project and programme services division, said: “The upturn in activity will push tender prices up as consultants and contractors look to secure construction professionals and materials. Suppliers are looking to ramp up production which has been reined back in the last 12 months as we are now witnessing increases in costs after a 12 to 15 month lull. “It is expected that the recovery cycle will be led by private investment which means that viability issues remain key for investment and, as a result, developers are looking for the rent and housing demand to make return worthwhile. “So, our forecast remains positive, it includes for a steady increase in output, along the lines forecast by the industry and accommodating a degree of planning reforms as well as a slight increase in the labour force. “As such, our advice continues to be to avoid additional costs and delays, be sure to provide early and detailed information, with early and good communication through the supply chain to achieve the best results.” The report recognises many of the issues affecting the construction sector currently, particularly in the planning system, where the procurement of more resources will take time. In addition other supply chain constraints through labour shortages and a reduction in suitable contractors will also act as a block on construction output. However, with the Government’s impetus on growth with infrastructure and housing at the heart of its agenda, the report points to the prospect of new opportunities for the sector to counter the current downward pressures. Wilkes adds: “Looking at the bigger picture most analysts agree that wise government investment in improved public services, green industries, energy and infrastructure to increase productivity is needed to sustain growth.” For a copy of the full report, go to: Construction Intelligence Report Q4 2024 – AtkinsRéalis (atkinsrealis.com) Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Students, who are looking for a field with a large spectrum of jobs are recommended to take interest in real estate and property management. A field in property management is best for anyone who is interested in working with people, managing assets, and analysing markets. Students can gain an in-depth knowledge of buying, selling, and maintaining property, which offers large opportunities for employment after. We will enlighten you on the basics of real estate and property management and provide a bit more detail about the opportunities for students, and the next step to take a successful career. Real estate deals with buying, selling, leasing, renting, and valuing land and buildings, whereas property management covers a larger spectrum of the real estate field. If writing assignments about real estate seems challenging, best essay writing service providers like Academized can help. They specialise in assisting students with high-quality essays, ensuring you meet deadlines and academic requirements. What is Real Estate? Real estate is to do with having land or buildings bought, sold or leased. In real estate, you will be helping people to find the property they need whether it is a home, office or space for investment. There are a lot of roles in real estate, from being a real estate agent to administrating property and managing commercial developments. The broad range of job roles means that students can concentrate on functions of particular interest to them, working with clients one-to-one or analysing property markets behind the scenes; real estate jobs often carry a flexibility of working hours and location, as well as offering the chance to work across residential, commercial or industrial sectors. What is Property Management? Becoming a property manager involves looking after an investment property, focusing on the day-to-day jobs that the property needs. It’s all about keeping the tenants content, dealing with the maintenance of the property, and ensuring that the property is making money. In order to be a successful property manager, you need to be good with writing and speaking, you need to be a problem solver, and you need to be good at managing your time. Students looking to excel can benefit from the best assignment writing services to handle the workload effectively and improve their skills. A property manager’s role can be diverse; many work for apartment buildings, office spaces, retail complexes and similar locations. Differences Between Real Estate and Property Management It seems like a solid reason to claim that being a real estate agent is the same thing as being a property manager, since both of them ‘do real estate’. But, on the contrary, real estate and property management are separate professional fields. The first helps people find a buyer, willing tenant or lessee for a home, office or any other type of property, and the second makes sure the property of their client will keep making money after the sale is closed. You can ask your real estate agent to manage the property for you, but that’s not their primary job. The following table shows some key differences: Aspect Real Estate Property Management Main Focus Buying, selling, and leasing properties Managing and maintaining properties Interaction with Clients Short-term (during purchase, sale, or lease) Long-term (maintaining tenant relationships) Typical Work Environment Real estate offices, client meetings, on-site On-site at properties, interacting with tenants Skills Required Sales, negotiation, market analysis Problem-solving, communication, organisation Career Growth Often leads to specialisation in sales or investment Can advance to senior management roles Understanding their differences can help you decide between them on the basis of what suits you. Then you’ll be well on your way to being a doctor. Why Choose a Career in Real Estate? Similarly, I suggest a career in real estate, which will give you a lot of flexibility. Besides, you will earn a decent amount of income. Working as a real estate agent can be performed from home, besides I would say that you would have more free time as you will be able to plan your working time by yourself. Also, you will get commission for each property sale that you do, which means that the more expensive the house you sell, the more money you earn. If you see yourself building a career in finance, law, or building, real estate is a great option. Many people find they’re drawn to real estate for we can make a career out of real estate in sales, development or as an adviser, as well as see how people who can network well can really get ahead. Why Choose a Career in Property Management? Being a student, you might like the reasonability, problem-solving and variety of jobs in property management: you’ll deal directly with tenants and owners to run properties smoothly and successfully. Job security in property management is also high; the number of people needing good managers is constant, and highest in large cities and growing areas. If you prefer the controls of working within a corporate or managerial framework, property management could be an excellent fit. There are established obligations: rent collection, arranging repairs, knowledge of and compliance with relevant legislation, and so on. As a property manager, there is a very real and significant – and invaluable – impact you have on the lives of your residents, whether they live or work in the property you manage. Skills Needed in Real Estate and Property Management The roles of real estate and property management are quite different but still there are some skills that overlap. Negotiation and sales skills are very important in the field of real estate . You should know how to understand your client and answer their questions,make a clear communication,and have a good skills of closing deals.Besides,you should be familiar with different market trends and factors that affect house prices.In addition,it is important to have a good knowledge of law since you have to deal with government regulations and local laws. In property management, there will be many competing demands on your time. You will have
Even a minor plumbing issue can quickly become a major inconvenience in your home or business. Whether you find a leaking faucet or experience an awful smell from the outside drain, you need a reputable plumbing company to fix the issue before it worsens. With so many options in St. Louis, Missouri, you may not know where to start when searching for a plumber. When researching plumbing companies, the first thing to consider is the number of years of industry experience each company has. For example, Maplewood Plumbing & Sewer LLC boasts an incredible 35 years of industry experience. This means they have seen everything and can handle anything from quick repairs to major installations. In addition to experience, there are several other factors to consider when looking for a plumbing company. These include the following. Licensing and Certifications The plumbing company you hire must have properly licensed and certified plumbers. Moreover, the plumbing technicians who work on your property must also be insured. This guarantees that the plumbing company follows state regulations and uses industry-approved techniques. It also means the company will cover any mishaps during the plumbing fix. Reputation and Reviews Plumbing companies with many years of experience and licensed plumbers are likely to have an excellent reputation. Still, you should check their online reviews to make sure. When you compare plumbing companies and their services, find reviews for them on websites like Yelp and the Better Business Bureau. You will also find Google Reviews under their Google Business Listing. If you find a lot of negative company reviews, look for specific patterns. Customers may complain about slow responses or bad after-sales service. If there are more bad reviews than good ones, looking for another plumbing company may be best. Transparent Quotes and Pricing Options You absolutely need transparency when it comes to pricing and quotes. You do not want to get an estimate and pay double the amount when the work is done. Hidden or unexpected costs are a big no-no, so only consider hiring a plumbing company when they are upfront about all costs. Quotes should be detailed and cover all aspects of the plumbing service that needs to be done. This includes emergency call-out fees, labor, and parts. Some companies offer flat-rate pricing, while others may change by the hour. It is important to ask how a plumbing company calculates its rates and whether you should expect additional costs for after-hours services. Warranties Always ask whether the company has warranty policies in place. Reputable plumbing companies stand behind their work and technicians by offering warranties on parts and labor. Warranties provide peace of mind that the company will fix any mistakes or replace faulty parts at no additional cost. Response Times Plumbing emergencies usually happen according to Murphy’s Law. You may have the family over for dinner only to have a water pipe burst. You may get ready for a quiet night in, only to find that your toilet is overflowing and the water has spread to the outdoor passage. When things like this happen, you need a plumbing company that offers 24/7 emergency services and will respond immediately when you call for assistance. Again, a reputable company will likely offer emergency support and send someone to assist immediately. Range of Services It is also important to remember that not all plumbing companies offer the same services. Some may specialize in basic repairs, while others provide comprehensive services. If you need basic plumbing services for your home, find a plumbing company that offers these services. If you need installation or maintenance of commercial plumbing systems, you need a company with the capacity and expertise to provide these services. For instance, homeowners may want to hire a plumbing company that offers leak detection, heat pump repairs, and sewer blockage removal. If you have a business, you must look for a company that can provide services to multiple floors, find and fix water line issues, and detect and repair leaks. Eco-Friendly Options If sustainability is important to you, you should look for a plumbing company that uses environmentally friendly products. The company may also use water conservation techniques and can advise you on greener plumbing options for your home and office. The Right Plumbing Company Offers More Than Just Affordable Prices Cheaper does not always mean better. Do not let low prices drive your decision when you compare plumbing companies. Instead, consider the above factors to ensure your plumbing problem is fixed efficiently and professionally.
