One of the UK’s fastest growing principal contractors has pledged to boost spending on its Early Years’ Talent Academy as part of its 15th anniversary celebrations. Inco Contracts, which has offices in Cannock, Cardiff, Stevenage and Warrington, is increasing its investment to £150,000 per year to help fight the growing
Facilities management specialist Bellrock has acquired Summers-Inman Construction and Property Consultants LLP, marking a strategic move to bolster its position within the UK’s property consultancy sector. The acquisition supports Bellrock’s ambition to become one of the UK’s top 15 building consultancy firms. Summers-Inman brings considerable expertise to the table, offering
The Construction Industry Council (CIC) is pleased to share our continued commitment to collaborative working by signing up to the Conflict Avoidance Pledge. The pledge is a key initiative of the Conflict Avoidance Coalition (CAC); a coalition of 90+ leading organisations working to prevent conflict and reduce disputes in construction
Concrete has been the backbone of construction for millennia, from the enduring structures of ancient Rome to today’s high-rise developments. Yet, as the UK construction industry faces economic pressures, sustainability demands, and labour shortages, the way we approach concrete services must evolve. By blending historical insights with cutting-edge techniques, the
The entertainment sector is no longer limited to cinemas, bowling alleys, or concert venues. Today, it’s a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by digital streaming, esports, virtual events, and on-demand experiences. These shifts have pushed developers and construction firms to adapt building strategies to meet the expectations of a tech-driven audience.
One of the UK’s fastest growing principal contractors has pledged to boost spending on its Early Years’ Talent Academy as part of its 15th anniversary celebrations. Inco Contracts, which has offices in Cannock, Cardiff, Stevenage and Warrington, is increasing its investment to £150,000 per year to help fight the growing skills gap facing the construction sector. This will encompass an even more comprehensive programme, offering apprenticeships, on-the-job learning, formal qualifications and one-to-one mentoring from its senior leadership team. It has been specially designed to attract individuals into the sector and, importantly, retain existing talent who are being tempted into different opportunities. By offering acceleration of their personal development and career path they can clearly see their future at Inco Contracts. The Early Years’ Talent Academy has been a resounding success so far for the business, with six young people trained from the basics into highly skilled professionals with some already progressing into managerial positions. “Skills are a growing issue for our sector and our ability to grow. Rather than stand still, we decided to take positive action and create our own training programme,” explained Operations Director Sam Norton, who led the MBO with Managing Director David Cotterill in 2020. “This has been a fantastic initiative for attracting young talent to join us as a fledgling contractor and we wanted to further renew our commitment to this. Our 15th anniversary felt like the perfect opportunity to extend it by increasing the funding to £150,000.” He continued: “We provide real project-based experience from day one, setting us apart from our competitors, with a progression pathway aligned with their personal goals. There is also company-funded education at College or University in place to deliver the best all-rounded team member. “Annual growth is running at around 20% and we can’t completely rely on the existing labour pool if we want to maintain this level of expansion. Growing our own talent is the preferred option to address the skills shortage and I’m delighted that we have given our proven scheme an ‘anniversary boost’.” Inco Contracts is a specialist in industrial, commercial and education refurbishment schemes across the UK, completing hundreds of projects every year. These often tend to be turnkey in nature and involve the company working alongside architects, designers, and landlords to bring warehouse, educational establishments and office space back to life or to the required modern-day standards. Services provided range from industrial roof and cladding, dilapidation schemes and external groundwork packages to building services, M&E installations, strip-outs and demolition, not to mention heritage and conservation work. Beyond the Early Years’ Talent Academy, the business also offers CPD for all of its 55-strong workforce as part of a regular 6-month appraisal scheme. This clearly defines a personalised action plan to further support their role and provide upskilling opportunities. Managing Director David Cotterill, added his support: “It’s well documented that the construction industry has been experiencing skills shortage issues for some time, so it’s crucial that we deliver talent from the ground up. “By doing this we’re helping address the ‘gap’ and create opportunities for people who might otherwise be overlooked by the sector. Our goal is to make construction more accessible, modern and rewarding. In a tight labour market, the companies that invest in people will be the ones that continue to thrive.” Harry Merrick was one of the first people to be enrolled into the Inco Contracts’ Early Years Talent Scheme, joining as Trainee Contracts Manager in 2020. He progressed to Assistant Contracts Manager just twelve months later and quickly secured his Level 3 BTEC in Construction and the Built Environment, before embarking on a five-year HNC in Construction Management at Birmingham City University. The 21-year-old from Walsall has made equally impressive strides in the workplace, recently leading a tender that secured a near £1m industrial refurbishment project in Nottinghamshire. Harry, who is also hoping to achieve Chartered status with the Chartered Institute of Building, commented: “I’d recommend this scheme to anyone entering construction. I’ve had a clear pathway from day one and lots of mentoring from experienced professionals that has accelerated my practical knowledge. “My sights are now set on the next step in my career, which will be the Contracts Manager role and then who knows…maybe one of the senior management team. Working with an independent contractor has fast-tracked my development in this sector.” Inco Contracts is planning several special events and announcements through the year to tie in with its 15th anniversary, which officially takes place in July. For further information, please visit www.incocontracts.co.uk or follow the company across its social media channels. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Facilities management specialist Bellrock has acquired Summers-Inman Construction and Property Consultants LLP, marking a strategic move to bolster its position within the UK’s property consultancy sector. The acquisition supports Bellrock’s ambition to become one of the UK’s top 15 building consultancy firms. Summers-Inman brings considerable expertise to the table, offering cost management, quantity surveying, project management, and building surveying services across both the public and private sectors. Notable clients include global brands such as Pepsi and McDonald’s. Summers-Inman employs 130 staff across eight regional offices, including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds, Leicester, London, Manchester, Newcastle (head office), and Teesside. Commenting on the acquisition, Carlo Alloni, Chief Executive Officer of Bellrock, said:“Acquiring Summers-Inman marks a significant milestone in our journey to expand Bellrock’s capabilities and accelerate our growth. This acquisition reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional service as we strive to be one of the leading property consulting businesses in the industry. I’m delighted to welcome the Summers-Inman team to Bellrock. Together, we will continue to drive success and create unique value for both our clients and teams.” David Cronje, Managing Director of Summers-Inman, added:“This acquisition represents a transformative step for Summers-Inman. By combining our expertise and resources with Bellrock, we are enhancing our capabilities and broadening our service offering nationwide. This partnership opens new avenues for growth, allowing us to better support our clients and strengthen our presence in the market. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings and look forward to continued innovation and success.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Construction Industry Council (CIC) is pleased to share our continued commitment to collaborative working by signing up to the Conflict Avoidance Pledge. The pledge is a key initiative of the Conflict Avoidance Coalition (CAC); a coalition of 90+ leading organisations working to prevent conflict and reduce disputes in construction and engineering. The Conflict Avoidance Pledge is a collaborative campaign to encourage early, constructive resolution of disputes. By signing the pledge, organisations show their commitment to managing conflict, proactively helping projects run more smoothly, efficiently, and without unnecessary legal costs. Matt Molloy, Chair of CIC’s ADR Management Board championed this collaboration saying, “As a leading forum for professionals across the built environment, the CIC ADR Management Board recognises its responsibility to lead by example in encouraging early intervention and open communication to help prevent disputes. By signing the Conflict Avoidance Pledge, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a more collaborative and less adversarial culture, and we are proud to join the Coalition and our peers in championing this important initiative to build a more resilient, efficient, and productive industry”. CAC President, Len Bunton said: “I am delighted that CIC has committed to signing the Conflict Avoidance Pledge and to support the work of the Coalition. This is an excellent example of collaboration in the industry to reduce the number of disputes in the UK construction industry”. For more information about the Pledge, and to sign up for free, visit conflictavoidance.org. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Concrete has been the backbone of construction for millennia, from the enduring structures of ancient Rome to today’s high-rise developments. Yet, as the UK construction industry faces economic pressures, sustainability demands, and labour shortages, the way we approach concrete services must evolve. By blending historical insights with cutting-edge techniques, the sector can enhance durability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Let’s explore some key advancements and best practices in concrete services, from material innovation to professional expertise, and how they can shape the future of UK construction. The Timeless Lessons of Roman Concrete One of the most groundbreaking revelations in modern construction comes from an ancient source: Roman concrete. Recent MIT research has uncovered that its legendary durability stems from a unique hot-mixing technique, combining quicklime, water, and volcanic ash (pozzolana) at high temperatures. This process creates self-healing calcium clasts that fill cracks over time, ensuring longevity unmatched by modern Portland cement. Why This Matters for Today’s Concrete Services While full-scale adoption requires further research, integrating these principles into contemporary practices could revolutionise how we build. The UK Concrete Market: Challenges and Opportunities The UK’s heavy materials market is undergoing a period of transformation in 2025, as construction priorities shift toward smarter, more sustainable solutions. With evolving project demands, regulatory changes, and innovations in materials and technology, this moment offers a chance to reimagine how concrete services can deliver greater efficiency, flexibility, and environmental value. Key Trends Driving Innovation in the Industry 1. Sustainability-Led Solutions The industry is embracing greener practices, with recycled aggregates and permeable concrete gaining momentum. These innovations not only reduce landfill waste but also enhance stormwater management. Low-carbon concrete mixes, incorporating materials like crushed glass and industrial by-products, are helping the sector meet ambitious net-zero targets while maintaining performance standards. 2. Advancing Workforce Capabilities While labour and skills shortages present a challenge, the industry is proactively adopting automation and AI to streamline batching and pouring processes. At the same time, initiatives such as the National Masonry Academy’s CITB-approved training programmes are equipping workers with cutting-edge skills to meet the evolving demands of modern construction. 3. Volumetric Mixing for Precision and Efficiency Volumetric mixing technology is revolutionising on-site delivery, offering precise, just-in-time concrete supply with minimal waste. This approach is particularly well-suited to large-scale commercial projects, supporting both productivity and sustainability goals. The Critical Role of Professional Concrete Contractors While DIY concrete work may suffice for small projects, professional contractors are indispensable for ensuring structural integrity, efficiency, and compliance. Here’s why: Precision in Material Selection and Mix Design Not all concrete is the same. A skilled contractor assesses factors like load-bearing requirements, weather resistance, and curing conditions to determine the optimal mix – whether for a driveway, industrial floor, or high-rise foundation. Advanced Finishing Techniques Proper finishing is crucial for durability and safety. Techniques like power floating (for ultra-smooth industrial floors) or brush finishes (for slip-resistant surfaces) require specialised tools and expertise. Repair and Maintenance Expertise Cracked or deteriorating concrete isn’t just an eyesore – it’s a safety hazard. Professional repair services use high-quality materials and methods to restore surfaces, preventing costly replacements and enhancing property value. “The future of concrete lies in blending time-tested methods with cutting-edge technology. Roman concrete taught us the value of durability, and now, with advancements like self-healing mixes and carbon-reduced formulations, we’re able to build structures that last longer while minimising environmental impact. At our firm, we’ve seen firsthand how precision mix design and sustainable materials can transform project outcomes – whether it’s a residential driveway or a commercial foundation. The key is investing in the right expertise and staying ahead of industry shifts.” – Eivor Acuna, Director, EKA Concrete Sustainable Concrete: Building a Greener Future The construction industry accounts for a significant portion of global CO₂ emissions, with cement production alone responsible for ~8% of the total. Fortunately, concrete services are adapting with eco-conscious solutions: Many major contractors are now undertaking this shift, proving that sustainability and performance can coexist. Looking Ahead: The Future of Concrete Services As the industry navigates economic and environmental challenges, several developments will shape its trajectory: Concrete services are at a crossroads. By embracing ancient wisdom, leveraging modern technology, and prioritising sustainability, the UK construction sector can build structures that are not only durable but also environmentally responsible. Whether through self-healing mixes, professional expertise, or recycled materials, the future of concrete lies in balancing tradition with innovation. For industry professionals, the message is clear: adapt, innovate, and build smarter. The foundations of tomorrow’s infrastructure depend on today’s choices.
The entertainment sector is no longer limited to cinemas, bowling alleys, or concert venues. Today, it’s a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by digital streaming, esports, virtual events, and on-demand experiences. These shifts have pushed developers and construction firms to adapt building strategies to meet the expectations of a tech-driven audience. From flexible layouts and modular structures to acoustic precision and bandwidth integration, the construction trends emerging in this space reflect how entertainment itself is being redefined. Digital-First Audiences Are Changing the Blueprint Developers are now designing for a generation that expects content to be interactive, immersive, and always available, whether onsite or online. This shift has made entertainment venues far more versatile, blending physical and digital features within the same space. Large screens, integrated lighting systems, and live-streaming zones are now standard, especially in venues that serve dual purposes. For example, a gaming arena might host esports during the day and casual tournaments at night, with dedicated zones for online spectators. In many cases, inspiration comes from traditional casinos, known for their control over lighting, layout, and customer flow. These principles are influencing everything from lounge designs to branded digital event rooms. Some developers are even taking cues from the interface and audience experience of a casino without verification procedures when designing digital-first entertainment areas. These platforms offer enhanced anonymity, hassle-free signups, and the ability to skip lengthy KYC procedures, letting users dive into thousands of games instantly. Fast payouts and exciting bonuses like welcome rewards, cashback, and free bets keep engagement high. While not building casinos themselves, architects and planners are learning from this model to create more immersive, frictionless spaces that blend online and in-person experiences. Modular and Adaptive Spaces Are Leading the Way One of the biggest trends in entertainment construction is flexibility. Traditional venues with fixed layouts are being replaced, or reimagined, with modular designs that accommodate rotating event types. Pop-up stages, retractable seating, and reconfigurable lighting setups are becoming standard in new builds. Developers now look for ways to construct “entertainment shells,” spaces that can host anything from live music to VR tournaments with minimal structural change. This approach is especially relevant in the rise of hybrid leisure spaces: coworking by day, gaming lounges by night. Whether it’s a live-streaming pod, a podcast studio, or a casual event space, modular design ensures long-term value without the cost of constant renovation. Acoustic and Sensory Design Take Centre Stage As entertainment shifts from passive watching to immersive participation, sound and sensory control have become priorities. Acoustic panelling, soundproofing, and directional audio systems are now part of early-stage planning, not post-construction fixes. This is especially crucial in esports venues, VR arenas, or interactive experience centres where the soundscape is part of the show. Materials matter, too. Contractors are integrating acoustic-friendly and soundproof materials into walls, ceilings, and floors, helping operators balance loud engagement zones with quieter social areas. Lighting systems that adapt in real time to gameplay, music, or visual content are being embedded in the architecture itself. Tech Infrastructure Is Built In, Not Added On Wi-Fi and fibre aren’t optional anymore. Venues designed for entertainment, especially digital-first entertainment, require serious backend infrastructure. Construction firms are now coordinating with IT consultants early in the build to map out data flows, server space, ventilation for streaming gear, and flexible power configurations. Online content creation is also influencing spatial design. Even small venues might need dedicated spaces for livestreams, branded content shoots, or online fan interaction. This includes consideration for green screens, adjustable lighting, and sound-treated recording nooks. Sustainability Remains on the Agenda Entertainment venues, despite being high-energy by design, aren’t off the hook when it comes to sustainability. New builds are being pushed to meet net-zero standards, with LED lighting, motion-triggered utilities, smart HVAC systems, and rooftop solar now more common across larger entertainment sites. Sustainability isn’t just about energy, though. Recyclable building materials, green roofing, and low-carbon supply chains are now being worked into tenders. Many venue operators see eco-friendliness as part of their brand image, which means it’s influencing how buildings are designed and marketed from day one. Conclusion As entertainment continues to blend real-world and digital experiences, construction will follow suit. The buildings rising today aren’t just places to gather, they’re platforms built to perform, interact, and evolve with the audiences they serve.