January 17, 2025
New decarbonisation framework agreement helps public sector hit net-zero goals

New decarbonisation framework agreement helps public sector hit net-zero goals

Leading corporate services provider,NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), has today unveiled a £500m framework agreement designed to help public sector organisations – including the NHS – decarbonise their estates. The new Decarbonisation of Estates framework agreement helps the NHS achieve its ambition of becoming the world’s first net zero

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Conlon Construction and Cassidy + Ashton completes multi-million pound expansion at Highfurlong School

Conlon Construction and Cassidy + Ashton completes multi-million pound expansion at Highfurlong School

Highfurlong School, an award-winning Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school in Blackpool, has officially completed a multi-million-pound expansion project. Featuring a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy suite, the project included the construction of a new building to help manage the growing demand for SEND places at the school. Designed by Cassidy +

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Gwent police complete move into sustainable facility in Abergavenny

Gwent police complete move into sustainable facility in Abergavenny

DESIGNED as a new base to enhance neighbourhood policing services, the new multi-million-pound eco-friendly police facility in Abergavenny has officially opened its doors for duty. Located on the A465 in Llanfoist, the new purpose-built home of Gwent police covers the local authority areas of Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport, and

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Linear Group Reveal Successes and Strong Forward Order Book for 2025

Linear Group Reveal Successes and Strong Forward Order Book for 2025

Leading contracting and fit out specialists Linear Group has announced a string of significant project wins and completions as it looks ahead to a strong projected 2025. Driven by a number of successful bids across the Group, specifically in its main operating arms – Linear Design & Construct; Linear Projects,

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IPA Major Projects Portfolio rises to £834bn - reaction

IPA Major Projects Portfolio rises to £834bn – reaction

The Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) Annual Report on Major Projects 2023-24, published today, shows the Government Major Projects Portfolio (GMPP) comprises 227 projects with a total whole life cost of £834 billion, up from £805bn in the previous annual report. GMPP projects aim to provide innovative and meaningful benefits

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Building on the foundations of our future - Yorkshire-based business donates 20,000 bricks to students at Leeds College of Building

Building on the foundations of our future

Yorkshire-based business donates 20,000 bricks to students at Leeds College of Building Yorkshire-based manufacturer ACS Stainless Steel Fixings is committed to supporting educational institutions, helping the next generation of construction and manufacturing professionals to reach their full potential. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment, ACS recently donated 20,000 bricks

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BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

Masterframe Windows Ltd, founded in 1988, is an established UK manufacturer of bespoke, high-quality PVC-U sash windows. The company has maintained a 27-year relationship with the British Board of Agrément (BBA). Masterframe first sought third party certification from the BBA in 1997 and obtained Agrément certification for its windows. Since

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Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

January 17, 2025

New decarbonisation framework agreement helps public sector hit net-zero goals

New decarbonisation framework agreement helps public sector hit net-zero goals

Leading corporate services provider,NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), has today unveiled a £500m framework agreement designed to help public sector organisations – including the NHS – decarbonise their estates. The new Decarbonisation of Estates framework agreement helps the NHS achieve its ambition of becoming the world’s first net zero national health service, reaching net zero by 2040 for the emissions the NHS controls directly. Work covered under the agreement includes internal and external wall insulation, ground source and air source heat pumps, electric heating solutions, photovoltaic systems, ventilation systems and lighting works as well as traditional works such as replacement of windows and doors, and solutions to tackle damp and mould in domestic properties. The framework agreement has been designed via extensive consultation with the public sector and Greener NHS leads. Importantly, it enables estates managers to create greater value by combining decarbonisation works with their backlog investment works to create cleaner, greener and more attractive estates. Anjub Ali, Senior Category Manager at NHS SBS commented: “With the announcement of over £1bn for public sector decarbonisation in 2024’s Budget, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero confirmed funding for the next wave of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. “This new framework agreement will support the delivery of the NHS’s ambition in ‘Delivering a Net Zero Health Service’ and is a response to the profound and growing threat to health posed by climate change. It is geared towards helping the NHS modernise and decarbonise aged assets and buildings throughout the public sector’s estates.” NHS SBS’s framework agreement allows for both further competition and direct award across seven geographical regions.  Both public projects and domestic dwellings are in scope, and the framework agreement can be used by all NHS and wider public sector authorities, including local government and housing associations. Suppliers awarded to the framework agreement include both well-known multinationals and small and medium-sized enterprises. All have been assessed on their ability to reduce the environmental impact of service delivery through the use of ground-breaking equipment, decreased energy and fuel consumption, and the monitoring of data of retrofit projects.  For more information about the Decarbonisation of Estates framework agreement contact the NHS SBS team at: sbs.hello@nhs.net. For more information about NHS SBS framework agreements click: Framework Agreements | NHS SBS  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Conlon Construction and Cassidy + Ashton completes multi-million pound expansion at Highfurlong School

Conlon Construction and Cassidy + Ashton completes multi-million pound expansion at Highfurlong School

Highfurlong School, an award-winning Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) school in Blackpool, has officially completed a multi-million-pound expansion project. Featuring a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy suite, the project included the construction of a new building to help manage the growing demand for SEND places at the school. Designed by Cassidy + Ashton and built by Conlon Construction, the project was carried out over two phases and represents a significant investment in education and community services for the Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde Coast areas. Phase one of the project was funded by government funding for new school places and SEND. The £4.8m new building doubles the school’s capacity to 180 students, reducing the need to use out-of-borough placements. The new building which connects to the existing school via a covered walkway, includes a specialist teaching room for the delivery of subjects such as science, food technology and life skills. A £2m phase two created a hydrotherapy suite designed to provide children a sensory-rich experience. The suite features a deck-access pool, customisable lighting, a projector, fibre optic art ceiling and a specialised hoist. Designed for dual-purpose use, the therapy pool is also available to community groups outside of school hours and includes features to enable future expansion of an additional storey if needed. Architect Dominic Read-Garrett, from Cassidy + Ashton, said: “It has been an incredibly rewarding experience to work on the design and delivery of the new facilities at Highfurlong School. By collaborating closely with Conlon Construction on this project, we have been able to create a space that truly supports the needs of the students and staff. “The new classrooms, café and hydrotherapy pool are designed to provide both an inspiring learning environment and essential resources for therapeutic and recreational activities. We are proud to have contributed to a facility that will enhance the educational experience for students and empower the whole school community.” Built in 2015, Highfurlong School has been a cornerstone for pupils with a wide range of SEND requirements. The school won the ‘School of the Year’ award, ‘Blackpool Primary School of the Year’ and the ‘Blackpool Inspirational Teacher’ of the year award at the National School Awards in 2021. Highfurlong School head teacher Jasmine Short said: “Cassidy + Ashton and Conlon Construction have worked as a team on this project to bring our vision to life. The design and quality of the build is outstanding, and the entire process to completion was managed in an extremely professional manner. “We are also immensely grateful to Blackpool Council for backing this expansion project. The new facilities at the school have transformed our ability to support the local demand for SEND places. We can now offer places to a larger number of pupils and the community-focused areas enable us to provide an innovative preparation-for-adulthood programme.” Conlon Construction commercial director Darren Lee added: “It is a tremendous pleasure to deliver the newly renovated Highfurlong School, now a state-of-the-art educational facility ready to be enjoyed, to its enthusiastic community of pupils, teachers and parents. Helping to addresses critical gaps in the urgent demand for SEND education solutions, a challenge currently affecting children on a national scale, Highfurlong School features outstanding specialist amenities designed to foster learning and exploration, all within a modern and inspiring environment. “Building on our proven experience in delivering SEND schools, this project highlights Conlon Construction’s strong track record in the education sector – from early years settings to universities – across the region. It also reflects our unique approach to SEND projects, demonstrating a deep understanding of the specific needs and requirements of schools designed for young people with additional needs.” Jasmine added: “Our vision was always to extend beyond the school itself; as we aim to create a hub for the wider community. This includes welcoming former pupils and families and providing a space for socialising and collaboration. The hydrotherapy pool is an outstanding addition. With two pools now available at the school, we can significantly expand access to hydrotherapy for both pupils and the local community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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UK’s AI Revolution: £200 Million a Day Fuels Industry Growth and Innovation

UK’s AI Revolution: £200 Million a Day Fuels Industry Growth and Innovation

The UK’s artificial intelligence (AI) sector is buzzing with momentum, attracting an impressive £200 million in private investment daily since the current government took office last summer. This infusion of more than £8.3 million per hour is driving the government’s ambitious Plan for Change to strengthen the economy’s foundations and position the UK as a global AI powerhouse. In just 48 hours following the publication of the AI Opportunities Action Plan, the UK secured over £14 billion in investment and commitments for thousands of new jobs. This surge follows £25 billion in data centre investments unveiled at the Global Investment Summit earlier this year, pushing total AI-related investments to £39 billion over six months. Building the UK’s AI Future Global companies are flocking to support the UK’s AI vision. CoreWeave, a US-based cloud computing firm, is establishing its first UK data centres in Crawley and London Docklands. Using cutting-edge NVIDIA technology, CoreWeave is enhancing Britain’s compute capacity—an essential component of the government’s AI strategy. The company’s £1.75 billion investment will also include its European headquarters in London. Homegrown success stories are riding the wave too. London-based Synthesia, a leader in AI-generated video content, recently reached a valuation of $2.1 billion after a successful funding round. This new investment will support its ambitious expansion, solidifying its status as one of the UK’s top AI firms. A New Hub for Innovation To foster collaboration and innovation, Tech Nation, Merantix, and Onfido Founder Husayn Kassai are launching a dedicated AI Hub in London’s Farringdon. Opening next month, the hub will serve as a central meeting point for AI innovators, offering opportunities for partnerships and advancements in the field. Infrastructure Investment Boom The government’s focus on AI-friendly infrastructure has attracted commitments from major players: Boosting Jobs and Opportunities Global firms are doubling down on their UK presence. French AI leader Mistral has announced its first office outside France, located in London, with plans to double its UK workforce by 2025. Meanwhile, Kyndryl, the world’s largest IT infrastructure provider, is creating 1,000 AI-related jobs in Liverpool as part of a new tech hub initiative. A Unified Vision for Growth Prime Minister and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle have committed to harnessing AI to drive economic growth and improve living standards. The AI Opportunities Action Plan, authored by AI entrepreneur Matt Clifford, includes 50 strategic initiatives aimed at making the UK the top global destination for AI firms. “This week marks a new chapter—putting AI at the heart of our economic transformation,” said Peter Kyle. “With more than £14 billion in fresh investment and thousands of new jobs, it’s clear that the UK is becoming a magnet for AI innovation and growth.” The UK’s AI journey is just beginning, and with a laser focus on attracting investment, scaling businesses, and spreading opportunities across the nation, the future of AI in Britain looks brighter than ever. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Gwent police complete move into sustainable facility in Abergavenny

Gwent police complete move into sustainable facility in Abergavenny

DESIGNED as a new base to enhance neighbourhood policing services, the new multi-million-pound eco-friendly police facility in Abergavenny has officially opened its doors for duty. Located on the A465 in Llanfoist, the new purpose-built home of Gwent police covers the local authority areas of Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Monmouthshire, Newport, and Torfaen in Wales. The Heddlu Gwent Police facility, which has been strategically positioned for rapid response via the ‘Heads of Valley Road’, will enable Gwent’s neighbourhood team to easily cover the town centre on foot, while a customer facing counter service will be retained in Abergavenny Town Hall. Multi-disciplinary consultancy firm Pick Everard was behind the scheme, operating through Perfect Circle to deliver project management and NEC supervisor services alongside contractor Willmott Dixon. Accelerated under the SCAPE Consultancy framework, the completed project has been rated BREEAM Excellent and was recognised at the National Considerate Constructors Scheme for its positive impact on the region. Thomas Bean, senior project manager at Pick Everard, said: “This has been a highly rewarding project to bring a key policing hub in Wales up to modern standards. It required our expertise to help navigate brownfield land development and build a facility that would serve the region effectively. “The new base was also crucial for public confidence, with a location close to the town centre and the A465, enabling rapid vehicle response. “Now complete, the facility provides a functional and practical modern workplace for officers and staff. As Gwent police’s greenest base to date, the new scheme sets a new benchmark for balancing operational needs with sustainable credentials.” On the roof of the building, photovoltaic solar panels have been installed with battery storage located inside the facility that will maximise the efficiency of usage of the solar energy produced. The site has a total of 30 parking spaces, including five standard electric vehicle charging spaces and two accessible spaces, including one accessible electric vehicle charging bay. In addition to its advanced energy features, the site also includes various ecological enhancements, including a drainage balance pond and wildlife underpasses to ensure safe passage for wildlife. ‘Frog ladders’ enable reptiles to climb out if they fall into drainage gullies, while bat boxes, bird boxes, native hedge planting, and a bug hotel for invertebrates also form part of the scheme. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, said: “We know the public wants to see neighbourhood policing increased and for services to be properly resourced to tackle crime. “That’s why we have announced that we will recruit 13,000 neighbourhood police officers and PCSOs to do just that. “The new police facility in Abergavenny will ensure that the local Gwent Police officers have a visible base in the town and can help keep the streets safe. “Officers and the Welsh public can be clear that the UK Government will support police to make the improvements they need.” The Gwent Police estate is the responsibility of the Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd. She said: “I would like to thank the Secretary of State for formally opening our new police base in Abergavenny. “This new facility, combined with the service desk in Abergavenny Town Hall, provides the best of both worlds; an accessible location for residents to access face to face services, and a modern operational base for officers and staff. “Ensuring that Gwent Police has the resources and facilities it needs to prioritise a visible policing presence in our communities is one of the commitments I have made to the people of Gwent. The new base will enable Gwent Police to increase its visibility in Abergavenny and the surrounding area and provide local teams with a base that is fit for the future.” The completion of the Heddlu Gwent Police facility follows the successful delivery of a brand-new headquarters for South Wales police by Pick Everard, showcasing its ever-growing blue light portfolio. For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit: www.pickeverard.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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OCS independently recognised as the top FM company to work for in the UK

OCS independently recognised as the top FM company to work for in the UK

OCS listed number 36 in the top 100 companies to work for in the UK based on Glassdoor employee feedback. In a study released by Sky News’ blog on 13th January 2025, OCS was listed as the 36th best company to work for in the UK and the only facilities management company to be listed in the top 100. The survey carried out by employee development platform Zensai, used feedback provided through Glassdoor to rank companies in order of the best to work for in the UK. Glassdoor empowers job seekers with straight-from-the-source insights and reviews. Receiving a listing inside the top 40 amongst other well recognised brands such as Apple, Dell and Microsoft, further demonstrates OCS’s commitment to making people the best that they can be. The score of 4.4/5 on the platform and the position of 36 in the league table further solidifies the importance of the continual development of its people. Commenting on the result of the study, Daniel Dickson, CEO of OCS UK and Ireland said, “This study is independent validation of our focus on the development of our team and the positive culture we have built at OCS. As a business we are focused on making both people and places the best they can be. To be the only facilities management company to make it into the top 100 is a fantastic achievement which demonstrates that we are truly living our purpose as an organisation.”   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Eurowall® + is the insulation board for designers with safe, comfortable, energy efficient homes in mind

Eurowall® + is the insulation board for designers with safe, comfortable, energy efficient homes in mind

The updated Part L regulations, due to be usurped by the incoming Future Homes Standard, provide official consensus on the need to build energy-efficient homes that are less impactful to the environment. This has instigated a rethink in building design and the type of materials that comprise key elements such as cavity walls to not only ensure homes comply with current energy standards, but are also suitably equipped to meet future legislation without the need for significant renovation. Part L regulations, which require new homes to produce 31% less CO2 than previous legislation, highlight a fabric-first approach to building design – along with renewable technologies such as heat pumps – as being integral to attaining the standard. Appropriate insulation is integral to the fabric first principle. A product’s thermal performance, thickness and usability being foremost considerations when compliant building performance and buildability is the target. The introduction of The Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) will help the specification process. How the Golden Thread Led to CCPI CCPI was initiated by the Construction Products Association’s Marketing Integrity Group in response to Dame Judith Hackitt’s post-Grenfell report: ‘Building a safer future – Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety’. Dame Judith’s report called for the creation of a “Golden Thread” of easily accessible information that blueprints a building’s DNA to safeguard its ongoing management. CCPI aligns with this report’s proposal by providing product information that is clear, accurate, current, accessible and unambiguous. In terms of insulation, this will help specifiers make more informed choices based on a product’s designed thermal performance, and how it is used safely and most effectively. As a manufacturer committed to best practice principles and improving building standards throughout the supply chain, Recticel recognises the value of CCPI in helping to create better-built homes that perform as-designed.   A Board that Fits with Housebuilding’s New Era With Recticel’s rigid full-fill insulation board, Eurowall® +, specifiers have a PIR product that embodies the drive for products that engender smarter working practices. A 90mm Eurowall® + board helps achieve a 0.18W/m2K U-value in 100mm masonry cavity walls. The resulting 10mm air gap makes the installation an easier, less labour-intensive process for bricklayers, which is also a benefit when budget constraints are in place.  Significant to Eurowall® + board’s design is a tongue and groove joint which appears on its four edges. This interlocking feature creates an airtight fit that reduces thermal bridging and moisture ingress. As a board that maximises thermal performance from minimal thickness, Eurowall® + also presents an opportunity for building designers to increase interior space whilst achieving compliance. Available in 90mm, 115mm, 140mm thicknesses, Eurowall® + brings an element of certainty to the building process; specifiers can be assured of its consistent thermal performance and long-term structural stability. Unlike fibrous insulation, which sags and degrades over time when damp sets in, Eurowall® + retains its strength to provide increased protection against moisture ingress and safeguard against thermal bridging. Eurowall® +, is the insulation board for housebuilding’s new era in which occupier comfort and well-being is matched by a focus on designing homes that are suitable for the cleaner, safer world we desire for generations to come. With that in mind, why wouldn’t you use Eurowall® +? Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Linear Group Reveal Successes and Strong Forward Order Book for 2025

Linear Group Reveal Successes and Strong Forward Order Book for 2025

Leading contracting and fit out specialists Linear Group has announced a string of significant project wins and completions as it looks ahead to a strong projected 2025. Driven by a number of successful bids across the Group, specifically in its main operating arms – Linear Design & Construct; Linear Projects, in both England and Scotland; and Linear Building Compliance, the company turnover is set to surpass £75m. Commenting on the recent successes and forward order book, Stephen Holmes, CEO, Linear Group, said, “Our diverse offering across our three core business means we can compete and deliver on many fronts. From small to medium size Main Contract Projects through Linear Design & Construct to a range of  both specialist and large, complex subcontract packages through Linear Projects and more recently our Maintenance & Remedial offering through Linear Building Compliance. We are in a very good place heading into our next Financial Year with 75% of our order book already full in all businesses.” Established in 2018, Linear Design & Construct  (LDC) is the Group’s main contracting arm, who will achieve an increase in turnover to £35m in the year ahead. With a focus on steady year on year growth, the business has delivered successful project completions and growth with a greater awareness of capability and expertise across the £1m to £15m project market. Recent bid successes include: Another key area of focus for LDC has been across the Hub Frameworks which has led to noticeable increase in public sector tenders as Local Authorities look to refurbish existing properties. Testament to this is the recent selection as Preferred Bidder to deliver the Strathclyde Park Water Sports Centre, which is close to home for the team, and will commence late summer 2025.  With over 30 years of operation, Linear Projects Scotland and England has forged a strong reputation within the industry, both North and South of the Border. By offering a multi-package fit out expertise coupled with an ability to be flexible to client needs,  this has driven constant growth and continues to deliver repeat business.    Recent project wins in Scotland include: Recent project wins and completions in England include: Across Scotland and England, these projects have delivered a combined value to the Group of £26m. The Group’s specialist Fire Compartmentation and Fire Door Maintenance business, Linear Building Compliance (LBC), has seen steady growth since it was established in 2022. The expert nature of this field has allowed the team to demonstrate their capability and drive growth through high quality delivery.  This has led to LBC and Linear Fire Safety being appointed on multiple frameworks giving excellent continuity of work into 2025 and beyond. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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IPA Major Projects Portfolio rises to £834bn - reaction

IPA Major Projects Portfolio rises to £834bn – reaction

The Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) Annual Report on Major Projects 2023-24, published today, shows the Government Major Projects Portfolio (GMPP) comprises 227 projects with a total whole life cost of £834 billion, up from £805bn in the previous annual report. GMPP projects aim to provide innovative and meaningful benefits to the UK. The report shows that the portfolio contains £719bn of monetised benefits, but does not include those benefits that cannot be expressed in commercial terms, particularly around social value. Commenting on the report, APM’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Andrew Baldwin, said: “The sheer scale of these figures shows the value of the project profession and good project management. Failure to manage these projects effectively will not only cost UK taxpayers a huge amount, but will delay or prevent countless benefits from being delivered to communities around the country. “The civil service must be equipped with the skills, competences and capability it needs to deliver these projects on time, on budget and to the right level of quality. It is therefore reassuring to see that the report states the number of Senior Responsible Officers undertaking or having already completed Major Projects Leadership Academy (MPLA) has increased from 66% to 76% in the last year. The IPA is doing good work. As the chartered membership organisation for the project profession, APM wants to see that continue as the IPA and National Infrastructure Commission prepare to merge into the government’s new National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA). “Challenges such as skills gaps and rising costs bring uncertainty and risk to government plans. Projects are much more likely to succeed when the government invests properly in those responsible for delivering them. We therefore urge the government to continue to bridge skills gaps and increase its project capability through training, professionalisation and by ensuring that project leaders have the competences they need.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Building on the foundations of our future - Yorkshire-based business donates 20,000 bricks to students at Leeds College of Building

Building on the foundations of our future

Yorkshire-based business donates 20,000 bricks to students at Leeds College of Building Yorkshire-based manufacturer ACS Stainless Steel Fixings is committed to supporting educational institutions, helping the next generation of construction and manufacturing professionals to reach their full potential. As part of the company’s ongoing commitment, ACS recently donated 20,000 bricks to Leeds College of Building – providing essential materials for students to practice their skills and enhance their hands-on learning experience. ACS currently has 11 apprentices within its team – including six from Leeds Building College – and plan to welcome more early this year as the company recognises the important role apprentices play in not only shaping the business, but the future of the sector at large. Speaking of the donation, Kate Robertson-Hart, Head of Marketing at ACS shared: “ACS is a forward-thinking company with a strong apprentice element to our team. The drive and ambition our young engineers bring with them is inspiring and we’re keen to support students in education as they begin their journey into the industry.” Harvey Knowles, Apprentice Technical Engineer at ACS, joined the team from Leeds Building College and shared: “The donation of 20,000 bricks will be invaluable to the students studying this year and I hope to see some of them come through the apprenticeship scheme here. “ACS is full of great people, and I’ve settled in well making some strong friendships too. The best thing is that ACS makes sure you get to experience all areas of the business, so I’ve really been able to understand the intricacies of how it all works – this is such a valuable experience and has really helped me to upgrade my knowledge. The strong link between ACS and Leeds Building College is brilliant.” ACS is also dedicated to supporting the future of the industry and its longstanding industry colleagues with its CPD courses – with many fully certified. The courses have been created inhouse and empower those starting off in the industry right through to seasoned professionals keen to enhance their knowledge and skills across a variety of construction-based topics to ensure they stay up to date with the latest product developments and learn about the latest regulatory requirements. Damien Mason-Harding, Curriculum Manager of Brickwork & Roofing, at Leeds Building College, concluded: “The ongoing support we receive from ACS is phenomenal and we can’t thank the team enough for their recent donation of the 20,000 bricks – not only were our students impressed with the size of the delivery, but the bricks are making a huge difference to their day-to-day learning. Partnerships with forward-thinking suppliers like ACS helps to futureproof the building industry and we’re thankful of our longstanding relationship with the team there.” ACS is a leading manufacturer and designer of structural building components, including but not exclusive to wall ties, windposts, masonry support and brick slip systems – all essential components used for the construction of modern-day structures, large or small. The 117-strong team operate from a factory in Yorkshire. Find out more about ACS here www.acsstainless.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

BBA Certification Process Ensures Masterframe Maintains Quality Assurance

Masterframe Windows Ltd, founded in 1988, is an established UK manufacturer of bespoke, high-quality PVC-U sash windows. The company has maintained a 27-year relationship with the British Board of Agrément (BBA). Masterframe first sought third party certification from the BBA in 1997 and obtained Agrément certification for its windows. Since then, the company has worked with the BBA to ensure conformity, consistency and that their unique and patented sash window frames meet high-quality standards. Following the initial certification in 1997, Masterframe has maintained its Agrément Certificate to uphold these high standards, even as the company introduces product lifecycle changes, innovations, and process updates. To ensure compliance and quality, as part of the Agrément maintenance process, Masterframe receives two visits from the BBA to its premises per year for, audits and inspections. As a result, the company and its employees have maintained a strong focus on quality in their manufacturing processes, delivery and installation of their products for its high-end customer base and its expectations. The Masterframe PVC-U sash windows provide a unique alternative to traditional timber frames, offering a traditional look and feel while delivering all the benefits of a modern system. All the window frames are designed in-house and feature unique and patented technology. The Masterframe windows feature putty-line finishes, deep sills, vacuum glazing with 10mm cavity units. Although the glazing appears single glazed, it has a 1.2u value and includes all the benefits of double-glazing. The window frames look unobtrusive and offer sound proofing benefits. Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe Windows Ltd, who works closely with the BBA team explained, “We recognise that the industry needs third party certification, it provides valuable assurance and trust to our customer base that what they are buying, performs as we claim. Certification can be perceived as being expensive and time-consuming, but we are committed to quality and want to maintain our standards within the market, so we see it as an important investment. We also recognise that BBA certification enhances our credibility when tendering for large commercial contracts.” The BBA Maintenance Process The team at Masterframe began the Certification process with the BBA in 1997, seeking third-party certification and testing. Masterframe chose the BBA due to their rigorous testing procedures, high standards and recognition within the industry. With expert guidance and advice on best practice, the team has worked with the BBA for many years to maintain and substantiate their claims to help demonstrate confidence in their products and assure their customers. Throughout Masterframe’s long relationship with the BBA their Technical and Compliance Director, Ray Rabett, who has been with the company for some 30 years, has continuously developed and introduced new innovative elements to the frames. These enhancements include improved aesthetics, increased longevity, and upgraded thermal performance and dimensional specifications to meet the evolving demands of their loyal customer base and changing market trends. As part of the BBA Agrément Certificate maintenance process, Masterframe’s Agrément Certificate is reviewed and updated in-line with these changes. The BBA maintenance process also ensures that Masterframe is aware of any new standards and changes in legislation, and that their products remain fit-for-purpose when things change. Ray Rabett added, “The process ensures all elements of our windows remain fit for purpose, even down to the screws being tested for conformance to the original quality plan. Our welding temperatures and tolerances are tested, checked, and scrutinized in great detail. We are 100% committed to both product and service excellence and remain completely focused on ensuring that customers receive products that exceed their expectations and are built to last. By submitting to this regular third-party testing by a well-renowned organization, we are, in a sense, offering a concrete guarantee of this ongoing commitment.” Quality, Credibility and Customer Confidence The BBA Agreement Certificate and its process clearly demonstrates that Masterframe windows continue to meet UK building regulations and have been assessed and tested to provide durability for the lifetime of each window frame they produce, provided they have been installed and maintained in accordance with the details contained in the certificate. By maintaining Certification in line with the BBA’s guidelines, Masterframe Windows Ltd has greater insight into changing industry regulations to ensure quality, credibility and customer confidence. Carol further added, “Working with the BBA has enhanced our company and employee mindset to continually strive for excellence without compromising on quality. We would highly recommend the BBA to others if they want to assure their customers that their product performs as claimed.” To learn more about Masterframe Sash Windows, go to https://www.masterframe.co.uk/ or the BBA Agrément Certification process – visit https://www.bbacerts.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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