James Tootle Joins from Bruntwood CBRE has appointed James Tootle as Director in its Northern Retail team to work across the firm’s northern business. James joins after ten years at Bruntwood where he was Head of Retail & Leisure for town centres and consumer brands at Bruntwood Works. At CBRE,
A new £250,000 centre for green skills training and education has been officially opened at Nottingham College, to address skills shortages in both construction and renewable energy in the region. The Green Skills Centre, based within the Nottingham Sustainability Enterprise Centre at Basford campus, is kitted out with nine state-of-the-art,
A new survey has revealed a boost in optimism amongst professionals delivering Construction projects following the announcement of a US/UK trade deal, though some concerns remain about the deal’s longer-term implications. The vast majority (85%) of respondents are confident in their organisation’s ability to carry out projects following the deal.
Key Takeaways Your backyard should be a place to relax, have fun, and make memories without costing a fortune. The good news? You don’t need a big budget to transform your yard into a cozy retreat. With creativity and a do-it-yourself (DIY) spirit, you can turn plain outdoor space into
The industrial sector is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by advancements in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices. From waste heat recovery systems to cutting-edge heat transfer solutions, these innovations are reshaping how industries approach energy management and operational efficiency. Leading this charge is Aitesa, a company that specializes in providing
James Tootle Joins from Bruntwood CBRE has appointed James Tootle as Director in its Northern Retail team to work across the firm’s northern business. James joins after ten years at Bruntwood where he was Head of Retail & Leisure for town centres and consumer brands at Bruntwood Works. At CBRE, James will be joining the northern retail team which covers the firm’s Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds offices, led by Stephen Proudley, Head of Northern Retail. Proudly said: “With the continued growth of the northern cities and the mix of uses being delivered through super prime assets, we work closely with our office, leisure and build to rent teams to offer an exceptional service to our clients. The expertise that James has in the city centre market brings an exciting dimension to our team, and continues our commitment to providing an unrivalled service in the north.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new £250,000 centre for green skills training and education has been officially opened at Nottingham College, to address skills shortages in both construction and renewable energy in the region. The Green Skills Centre, based within the Nottingham Sustainability Enterprise Centre at Basford campus, is kitted out with nine state-of-the-art, interactive demonstration and training bays, comprising solar PV, air source heat pumps, battery storage, electric vehicle charging and solar thermal technologies. In each area, students will have access to a live working bay, an installation / maintenance bay, and a fault-finding bay, giving them practical application of learning across core low carbon technologies in live real-world scenarios. The launch of the Green Skills Centre is hot on the heels of significant adjacent investment at Nottingham College’s Basford campus, including the £6million Construction Skills Centre which opened in November 2024. Funded by the Local Skills Improvement Fund and delivered in partnership with Quantum Training, the Green Skills Centre will respond directly to the region’s local skills needs and set the standard for upskilling in green sustainability-focused careers, both for students in further education and adults who may already be working in industry. Bolstering the sustainability offer at the college, the Green Skills Centre enhances Nottingham College’s ability to play a pivotal role in supporting the construction sector, as it gears up to deliver the government’s 1.5 million homes mission – many of which will need to hit significant sustainability benchmarks. The new facility also complements the existing green skills provision offering through the Gas Centre at Basford and the electric vehicle and related technologies courses offered at Ruddington campus. In addition, the Green Skills Centre supports Nottingham College’s commitment to achieving carbon net zero through its comprehensive suite of sustainability initiatives, including decarbonisation of heritage buildings, rewilding projects in city centre locations and other retrofit initiatives to reduce energy consumption. Carl Ara, Assistant Principal at Basford, acknowledged the impact that the new facility will have on teaching. He said: “The Green Skills Centre provides a unique learning environment for students to develop their practical skills and understanding of green skills required in industry. Qualifications in green skills courses opens up a number of career options for students, whether that is in robotics, renewable technologies, business, construction and the built environment, agriculture, hospitality and retail, science and the public sector – so it is an education pathway which provides students with a great number of choices for further study and employment. “Our mission at Nottingham College is to unlock potential through learning and this is exactly the sort of future-ready facility that will support delivery of a high standard of education for our students and adult learners in industry.” James Swift, Director of Strategic Development and Projects at Nottingham College, was part of the bids team instrumental in accessing funding for the centre. He said: “Success in allocation of funding for the Green Skills Centre is in part thanks to the increased demand for jobs and careers in green skills, exacerbated by a growing emphasis on tackling the climate emergency. As our understanding of environmental pressures increases, it is becoming more important to respond to these challenges in our society – and so green skills will help us address them across multiple industry sectors here in Nottingham and beyond.” Maria Gonella, Managing Partner at Quantum Training, said: “At Quantum, we’ve been delivering practical, hands-on renewable and retrofit training facilities across the country, as part of our mission to help drive the UK’s transition to net zero. One of the biggest challenges in achieving this goal is the shortage of a workforce equipped with green skills. That’s why we’re committed to supporting colleges, like Nottingham, in delivering green skills training and preparing learners with the expertise needed to drive the UK’s green transition.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new survey has revealed a boost in optimism amongst professionals delivering Construction projects following the announcement of a US/UK trade deal, though some concerns remain about the deal’s longer-term implications. The vast majority (85%) of respondents are confident in their organisation’s ability to carry out projects following the deal. The survey revealed this was consistent across key sectors in the UK economy, including Construction (83%), Manufacturing (92%), and Automotive (81%). This renewed confidence is largely driven by two key factors: improved market access and greater regulatory alignment. Over half (51%) of respondents said the deal opened up greater opportunities for trading and enhanced access to suppliers, customers and partners as a key benefit, noting this would significantly improve project feasibility and scalability. A further 48% pointed to reduced compliance burdens as a result of closer regulatory cooperation, which is expected to streamline project execution and reduce delays. The findings were revealed in a survey of 250 project professionals, conducted by the Association for Project Management (APM), the chartered membership organisation for the project profession, in partnership with Censuswide. Projects and project management are a key driver of economic growth in the UK. APM research shows the profession adds £4.73bn to the transport sector, £8.44bn to the manufacturing sector and £33.19bn to the construction sector when measured by Gross Value Added (GVA). However, not all professionals are convinced. A small minority of just under 5% reported a decline in confidence, citing lingering challenges that could affect delivery outcomes. Of those who are optimistic, some concerns still remain. Nearly half (48%) of those surveyed expressed worry that the trade deal could disrupt existing relationships with non-US/UK partners, potentially leading to contract renegotiations and supply chain complications. Another 44% highlighted uncertainty around how the deal will be implemented, suggesting that evolving terms may complicate planning and risk assessments. When asked about the expected impact on project delivery over the next 12 to 18 months, responses painted a mixed picture. While a third (33%) anticipate improved project delivery, many foresee challenges ahead. These include: The shift away from environmental priorities is notable and suggest project professionals are concerned that net-zero targets may take a back seat in light of evolving trade agendas. Commenting on the findings, Professor Adam Boddison OBE, Chief Executive of APM, said: “This survey highlights both renewed optimism and ongoing complexities for the projects that drive the UK economy following the UK/US trade deal. Confidence is clearly growing across key sectors, fuelled by better market access and improved regulatory alignment, which is positive to see. “At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge the concerns that remain. Particularly around the stability of global partnerships, evolving implementation details, and the potential sidelining of sustainability goals. These factors will demand agile leadership and careful planning from those delivering projects on the ground. “As the project landscape grow more complex and becomes more globally connected, the ability to manage short term uncertainty and maintain a focus on long term outcomes is more crucial than ever. These insights reflect a profession that is alert to both opportunity and risk.” APM offers a wide range of professional development resources, qualifications and networking opportunities to support both individuals and organisations in enhancing project delivery capability. Visit apm.org.uk for more information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Key Takeaways Your backyard should be a place to relax, have fun, and make memories without costing a fortune. The good news? You don’t need a big budget to transform your yard into a cozy retreat. With creativity and a do-it-yourself (DIY) spirit, you can turn plain outdoor space into something special. Whether you want a fire pit for summer nights, a simple garden path, or a comfy seating area, plenty of affordable projects exist. Best of all, you can do most of them on a weekend with basic tools. So, are you ready to give your yard a fresh look without breaking the bank? Well, here are a few tips: Design a Simple Pathway A well-placed garden path helps guide visitors through your outdoor space while connecting different areas of your yard. Designing a simple pathway ranks among the easiest outdoor projects and is an excellent way to bring charm and character to your backyard. You can use many materials to create a path that fits your style and budget. For a rustic and creative touch, you can easily build one using gravel, stepping stones, wood slices, or wooden pallets. If you plan to use wooden pallets, research and find a reliable supplier, such as Challenger Pallet & Supply, to ensure the materials are safe and sturdy for outdoor use. To get started, lay the pallets flat to form the base of the path. This works especially well in natural garden areas or informal pathways. Fill the gaps between the pallet slats with gravel, mulch, or grass to improve stability and add visual interest. You can also top the pallet boards with flat stones or additional wooden planks for a smoother walking surface. Before placing your chosen materials, install a layer of landscape fabric underneath. This helps prevent weeds from popping through and keeps maintenance simple. Beyond functionality, a thoughtfully designed pathway adds a sense of flow to your backyard layout. Create a DIY Patio and Outdoor Dining Area A patio brings structure and charm to your outdoor space, giving you the perfect place to relax and entertain. Building a DIY patio is also an affordable way to refresh your yard and create a welcoming gathering spot. Start by choosing a flat area that fits your backyard layout. Clear grass or weeds, then place a weed barrier to help keep the space neat. Spread a base of gravel or sand, and arrange your pavers or tiles in a design that reflects your style. Once the patio is ready, you’ll have an ideal spot for comfortable seating, outdoor plants, or a porch swing. Set up an outdoor dining area to make the space even more inviting. Place a sturdy picnic or outdoor dining table in a shaded corner of your new patio or beneath a pergola. Add comfortable seating to encourage guests to stay and enjoy. For larger gatherings, bring in additional folding tables to expand your setup. To complete the look, decorate with string lights, outdoor planters, and outdoor decor made with weather-resistant materials. These simple touches add extra comfort and charm. This area will soon become a favorite spot for backyard parties, family meals, and quiet evenings with friends. Build Raised Garden Beds Raised garden beds add both charm and practical value to your backyard. They offer a dedicated planting space, help define your outdoor space’s layout, and give your garden a neat and organized look. Whether you want to grow fresh herbs, colorful flowers like angelonia, or various vegetables, raised beds provide a flexible and attractive solution. Building these beds is simple. You can use wood for a classic appearance or corrugated plastic panels for a more modern design. After assembling the frames, fill them with nutrient-rich soil and compost to encourage healthy plant growth. The defined edges of the beds make planting, watering, and maintenance more manageable. In addition to improving the look of your backyard, raised beds help maximize growing space. They can line a backyard fence, frame a garden path, or even create distinct planting zones in larger yards. Their elevated height also reduces strain when tending plants, making gardening more enjoyable for all ages. With just a little effort, you’ll have garden beds that bring lasting beauty and function to your outdoor space. Make a Fire Pit A backyard fire pit brings any space warmth, beauty, and ambiance. It gives family and friends a cozy place to gather, share stories, and enjoy evenings outdoors. The good news is that building one is a fun DIY project you can complete over a weekend using affordable materials. First, choose a safe and open spot in your yard, well away from trees, low-hanging branches, or any structures. Walk your yard and consider how the fire pit will fit into your backyard layout. Many homeowners place it near their outdoor seating area or as a backyard focal point at the end of a garden path. Next, clear the area thoroughly, removing any grass or debris. Spread a layer of gravel to form a solid and level base. This helps with drainage and keeps your fire pit stable. Once the base is ready, stack your fire-safe bricks or stones in a circle or square. The design can be as simple or decorative as you like. Many homeowners build a low wall, about one to two feet high, to help contain the fire and create a polished look. Create a Small Water Feature A minor water feature brings soothing sound and movement to your outdoor space. The gentle water flow creates a calming atmosphere and makes your backyard more inviting. Best of all, adding one does not require a big budget or complex setup. Choose a spot where the feature can serve as a backyard focal point. Corners of a patio, near a garden path, or within view of your seating area are great choices. There are many affordable options, such as a small pond kit or a freestanding pond fountain. You can also create a custom design
The industrial sector is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by advancements in energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices. From waste heat recovery systems to cutting-edge heat transfer solutions, these innovations are reshaping how industries approach energy management and operational efficiency. Leading this charge is Aitesa, a company that specializes in providing advanced energy and heat transfer solutions tailored to the needs of modern industrial operations. As global concerns about climate change grow, industries are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices. In this article, we’ll explore how energy innovation is revolutionizing industrial processes, the role of companies like Aitesa in driving decarbonization, and what industrial leaders need to know to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field. Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Industrial Operations Energy efficiency has become a cornerstone of modern industrial processes, as industries seek to balance productivity with sustainability. Here’s why it matters: Companies like https://aitesa.com/en/ specialize in delivering innovative heat transfer and energy recovery solutions that help industries meet these challenges head-on, ensuring compliance with sustainability goals while maintaining operational excellence. How Aitesa Is Driving Energy Innovation in the Industrial Sector With decades of experience in engineering and energy solutions, Aitesa has established itself as a trusted partner for industries seeking to optimize energy usage and reduce environmental impact. Their expertise lies in heat transfer technologies , including waste heat recovery boilers, air preheaters, and thermal systems designed to maximize energy efficiency. One of Aitesa’s standout offerings is its waste heat recovery systems , which capture excess heat from industrial processes and repurpose it for other uses, such as generating steam or heating water. This not only improves overall efficiency but also reduces fuel consumption and operational costs. Similarly, their air preheaters enhance thermal efficiency in heating systems, making them ideal for industries requiring high-temperature processes, such as manufacturing, chemical production, and power generation. Another key area where Aitesa excels is in conducting comprehensive energy audits . These audits provide detailed insights into energy usage patterns, identifying inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. By leveraging data-driven insights, Aitesa empowers industrial clients to make informed decisions that drive sustainability and profitability. For industries looking to future-proof their operations, partnering with a company like Aitesa can make all the difference. Their team works closely with clients to deliver customized solutions that address specific energy challenges, ensuring alignment with global sustainability standards. Key Trends Shaping the Future of Energy in Industrial Operations Several trends are defining the future of energy use in the industrial sector. Understanding these developments is crucial for staying competitive and sustainable: By embracing these trends, industries can create operations that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also environmentally responsible and adaptable to future energy demands. Tips for Industrial Leaders Navigating Energy Innovations Adopting energy-efficient technologies can seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can lead to significant benefits. Here are some practical tips: Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future with Energy Innovation The industrial sector is at a pivotal moment, where embracing energy-efficient technologies is no longer optional—it’s imperative. Companies like Aitesa are leading the way by providing innovative solutions that address today’s challenges while anticipating tomorrow’s demands. Whether you’re an industrial leader looking to optimize energy usage, a manufacturer seeking to reduce emissions, or a facility manager aiming to improve operational efficiency, Aitesa offers the tools and expertise you need to succeed. By leveraging their heat transfer and energy recovery solutions, you can ensure that your operations are not only cutting-edge but also aligned with the principles of efficiency, sustainability, and excellence. To learn more about how Aitesa can support your next energy-focused industrial project, visit their website today. Together, let’s build a smarter, more sustainable future.