Arc & Co. and Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) have completed a £21.5 million development facility to support the delivery of a 210-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in central Nottingham. The sponsor, an experienced developer, appointed Arc & Co. to structure and arrange the £21.5m facility, with HTB providing the
A historical landfill site is to be redeveloped to create a solar farm as part of the first phase of a green hydrogen infrastructure initiative being delivered by bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited (bpAHEL), a joint venture between Aberdeen City Council and bp. RSK Renewables, an RSK Group company, will
Superdrug has officially reopened in Metrocentre’s lower Red Mall in a brand new, 10,000 sq ft unit, unveiling the retailer’s latest store design and an expanded, service led offer. The upsized space introduces treatment studios and cosmetic services alongside a curated line up of regionally exclusive brands, including sought after
Building on their successful partnership, OP will deliver Techspace’s newest eight-floor coworking facility on St Andrew Street in London, marking their second collaboration. The leading interior design consultancy will deliver a complete strip-out and combined CAT A and CAT B fit out across 16,300 sq ft of workspace for tech
Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “The inclusion of Heyford Park in the Government’s new towns programme shows a growing commitment to building not just more homes but better places – places with identity, infrastructure and long-term purpose. That’s exactly what we’ve been working towards at Heyford Park. “Our
Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has appointed HG Construction to deliver a high-quality purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) site in Hackney Wick. Part of the Firethorn Living portfolio, Hackney Wick will comprise 204 modern and spacious student bed spaces, 35% of which will be affordable accommodation. Residents will
Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group has agreed to the purchase of two parcels of land at Parsonage Road in Takeley, Essex, with plans to deliver a high-quality new residential community of 108 homes. The site, which spans almost 16 acres, was acquired through land promoter Endurance Estates and agent Sworders
The London Irish Centre has awarded its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE, the distinguished businesswoman, entrepreneur, and industry trailblazer renowned for her transformative impact on the waste management and construction sectors. The award, presented by his excellency the Irish Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Martin Fraser, recognises
As the doors to the UK’s biggest event for the built environment prepare to open, building safety will be high on the agenda at this year’s UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham. With a wide range of exhibitors and a dedicated programme of talks, the award-winning show will spotlight best practice,
Finning has tested and built a Cat® 988 wheel loader 150-metres below ground, enhancing operations for the UK’s biggest salt mine at Compass Minerals in Winsford, Cheshire. Compass Minerals, a global leader in mineral extraction, has invested in a Cat 988 wheel loader from Finning UK & Ireland, to support
Arc & Co. and Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) have completed a £21.5 million development facility to support the delivery of a 210-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in central Nottingham. The sponsor, an experienced developer, appointed Arc & Co. to structure and arrange the £21.5m facility, with HTB providing the development funding. Construction has commenced and the scheme is targeting completion ahead of the 2027 student intake. Nottingham, home to both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, is a key regional student market where demand continues to outstrip supply. The development will deliver 210 new bed spaces in a high-quality scheme designed to meet the needs of a growing student population. Philip Kay, Director at Arc & Co, said: “PBSA remains a highly active sector for Arc & Co., and we were very pleased to support the sponsor on this important Nottingham scheme. “Our role was to structure and arrange a funding solution that aligned with the developer’s requirements, and HTB proved to be an excellent partner throughout the process. Their ability to navigate the complexities of a transaction of this scale and deliver with certainty made them the right lender for this project.” Andrew Dignum, Lending Director at HTB, said: “This was a significant opportunity to support a new to bank client on a complex PBSA scheme. “The £21.5m facility underlines HTB’s capability in structuring and funding large student accommodation developments in key regional markets, and it has been a pleasure to work in partnership with Arc & Co. to deliver this transaction. We look forward to seeing the scheme progress and to building on this new relationship.” Neil Leitch, Managing Director of Development Finance at HTB, added: “Student accommodation remains one of the most resilient sectors in regional property markets, with Nottingham a prime example of a location where demand continues to exceed supply. Transactions of this scale and complexity require specialist sector knowledge and certainty of funding. “At HTB we are building a strong PBSA track record, and this facility reinforces our role as a trusted partner for complex regional development.” So far in 2025, Arc & Co. has completed a series of £20m+ funding transactions, including a £26m bridging loan for a Prime London residential property; a 111-bed PBSA scheme in London with a £36m GDV; and a £59m loan secured against a hotel portfolio. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A historical landfill site is to be redeveloped to create a solar farm as part of the first phase of a green hydrogen infrastructure initiative being delivered by bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited (bpAHEL), a joint venture between Aberdeen City Council and bp. RSK Renewables, an RSK Group company, will work with bpAHEL on the project on the former Ness Landfill site, located on Coast Road in Aberdeen, adjacent to Nigg Bay. Engineering design work has started at the site, with construction expected to start early in the new year. RSK Renewables Managing Director Adrian Strudwick said the team was excited about contributing to a project that redevelops a historical landfill site to produce renewable energy. He noted that it was also part of the first phase of a green hydrogen infrastructure initiative being delivered by the bpAHEL joint venture. This will provide power for a hydrogen production facility and refuelling station for buses and trucks. Adrian said: “RSK Renewables is responsible for the engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and testing of the planned 8 MW solar farm. Guided by our in-house design and structural engineering teams, we identified a custom ‘tree-type’ mounting system as the optimal solution. This innovative design minimises ground disturbance, preserving the integrity of the former landfill’s protective capping while securely and efficiently supporting the solar array. With this solution also not requiring concrete or ballasted foundations, it enables the project to be built with a reduced CO₂ impact.” At the peak of the project, the team expects to have 50 to 60 people on-site, including civil engineering and electrical specialists. RSK Renewables will also remain with the project for two years as part of the operating and maintenance contract associated with the project. The solar farm will feature: Other RSK Group companies contributing to the project include RSK Advantage (pre-contract services) and RSK Asbestos (providing on-site monitoring services in relation to the former landfill site). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Superdrug has officially reopened in Metrocentre’s lower Red Mall in a brand new, 10,000 sq ft unit, unveiling the retailer’s latest store design and an expanded, service led offer. The upsized space introduces treatment studios and cosmetic services alongside a curated line up of regionally exclusive brands, including sought after Korean and Japanese skincare. A standout is an exclusive edit from PURESEOUL, The Home of K beauty, bringing trending ranges to the North East under one roof. The fit out focuses on experience, clarity and efficiency. Updated wayfinding, refreshed finishes and energy efficient LED lighting support a brighter, easier to shop environment, while the added services shift the store towards a clinic and beauty studio model that encourages longer dwell and repeat visits. The result is a modern, flexible box designed to accommodate new categories and pop up brand moments without major interventions. The relaunch forms part of a wider wave of landlord and occupier investment at Metrocentre. Superdrug is one of ten established retailers committing capital to the destination this year, contributing to more than 76,000 sq ft of refurbished and expanded space across the campus. Recent activity includes projects by Boots, HMV, Kuoni and LEGO, underscoring continued confidence in the scheme and the role of high performing regional malls in multichannel retail strategies. Environmental performance and responsible delivery have been threaded through the programme. Across recent AS Watson projects at Metrocentre, specifications have prioritised energy efficient lighting, low waste fit out practices and the retention or reuse of existing elements where feasible. Sister brand The Perfume Shop’s newly refitted experiential store at the centre highlights the approach: ISO 14001 accredited principal contractors, LED throughout, and a permanent perfume bottle recycling service that encourages customers to return empties in store. Superdrug’s new concept aligns to the same ESG direction of travel, with lower energy operations, durable finishes and adaptable layouts that reduce future strip out. From a property standpoint, the move consolidates Superdrug’s position as a wellness anchor in Red Mall, adding scale and specialist services to complement neighbouring fashion and lifestyle brands. The larger floorplate enables clearer adjacencies, with skincare, fragrance and studios together, while back of house improvements support faster replenishment and a broader SKU count. Regionally exclusive K and J Beauty ranges, front of house services and upgraded lighting combine to drive footfall and conversion, strengthening the unit’s role as both a retail destination and a platform for new brand launches. For Metrocentre, the project is another proof point for targeted reinvestment, right sizing, remerchandising and upgrading well trading units to modern specifications that lift performance and extend asset life. For Superdrug, the Gateshead flagship demonstrates how the chain is evolving its physical estate, with bigger footprints, richer services and a stronger sustainability baseline, to meet changing customer expectations while supporting the wider AS Watson portfolio on site. With the doors now open, the expanded store adds fresh momentum to Metrocentre’s 2025 upgrade cycle and gives North East shoppers a best in region Superdrug experience built around service, exclusivity and lower impact design. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Building on their successful partnership, OP will deliver Techspace’s newest eight-floor coworking facility on St Andrew Street in London, marking their second collaboration. The leading interior design consultancy will deliver a complete strip-out and combined CAT A and CAT B fit out across 16,300 sq ft of workspace for tech entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The comprehensive sixteen-week project spans from basement to sixth level, creating flexible workplace suites and collaborative areas that incorporate Techspace’s signature approach to flexible working, featuring private offices, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces. Key features of the refurbishment include a reimagined ground floor reception and welcome area, a central cafe and social hub will be installed, featuring purpose-built seating areas and collaboration zones designed to encourage networking and community building among members. OP will maximise the existing windows to flood the new offices with natural light and views of London. The design will retain and enhance existing architectural features while introducing modern finishes and contemporary workplace amenities. The project includes comprehensive M&E upgrades, new lighting systems, and refreshed common areas throughout all eight floors. Modern end-of-journey facilities will be uplifted, and OP will install new secure bike storage to support sustainable commuting. Sustainability credentials are central to the refurbishment, with energy efficient systems, low VOC materials, and sustainable finishes specified throughout. The project targets strong environmental performance ratings while creating a healthy, productive workspace for Techspace members. The fit out will support Techspace’s established model of providing forward-thinking tech companies with access to premium workspace, high-speed connectivity, and networking opportunities in London’s vibrant business ecosystem. Stephen Parsons, Group Managing Director of OP, said: “We’re delighted to be furthering our relationship with Techspace following our successful delivery of their Old Street location. This comprehensive transformation represents exactly the kind of inspiring workspace that supports London’s thriving tech sector. The complete strip-out and redesign across eight floors will create a truly modern environment where innovation can flourish, while the fast-track sixteen-week programme demonstrates our ability to deliver complex projects to demanding timescales.” Paul Sandilands, Property Director of Techspace said: “We’re excited to be partnering with OP once again following the success of our Worship Street location. This latest full-building transformation reflects Techspace’s mission to empower the tech community with spaces designed for growth. By creating flexible, collaborative environments with best-in-class facilities, we’re giving scale-up teams the platform they need to innovate, connect and thrive.” The project is scheduled for completion in December 2025, with Techspace members benefiting from enhanced facilities and expanded capacity across the transformed building. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “The inclusion of Heyford Park in the Government’s new towns programme shows a growing commitment to building not just more homes but better places – places with identity, infrastructure and long-term purpose. That’s exactly what we’ve been working towards at Heyford Park. “Our development is one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the UK, and it’s shaped by a clear masterplan and a strong sense of place. From new homes and schools to community spaces, green infrastructure, local employment and plans to become the UK’s first energy-surplus town, Heyford Park is designed to grow in a sustainable and balanced way. We’ve already come a long way in transforming a former RAF base into a thriving, modern community, and the next chapter is about delivering on that original vision with ambition and care. “As momentum builds behind the new towns programme and strategic growth across the region, Heyford Park stands as a clear example of what’s possible when development is led by placemaking. This recognition gives us the platform to build on everything achieved so far and deliver create a long-lasting legacy for Oxfordshire.” For more details and to view the masterplan in full, visit: www.heyfordpark.com/heyford-park-masterplan Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has appointed HG Construction to deliver a high-quality purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) site in Hackney Wick. Part of the Firethorn Living portfolio, Hackney Wick will comprise 204 modern and spacious student bed spaces, 35% of which will be affordable accommodation. Residents will benefit from generous amenities, including co-working study spaces, common rooms, private dining space, a gym and two outdoor roof terraces. Firethorn will also work with a local community interest group to create around 1,400 sq. m. of affordable and incubator workspace at the site, to support the local creative industry. Set on the grounds of the former Broadwood piano factory, the development will preserve and incorporate the site’s historic brick chimney, originally built in 1902. Sustainable features have been incorporated into the design, with a target BREEAM “Excellent” rating. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn said: “Hackney Wick reflects our commitment to increasing the provision of high-quality student accommodation in key university cities across the UK. HG Construction’s strong track record in delivering modern PBSA developments, combined with the team’s local expertise, makes it the ideal partner for this project. We look forward to working together to bring the development to swift completion.” Adam Quinn, Chief Executive Officer of HG Construction, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Firethorn to deliver this exciting new scheme. Having previously delivered several successful developments just a stone’s throw from the site, we know the area well and value its rich heritage. The opportunity to preserve key historical elements while bringing forward high-quality student accommodation aligns perfectly with our ethos. “We look forward to collaborating with Firethorn to deliver this scheme with a commitment to quality and sustainability, and to maximising social value opportunities throughout the construction phase and beyond.” The development is within a 15-minute walking distance of University Arts London and UCL East, and the surrounding area offers a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants and shopping centres. Work is due to start on site immediately, with completion on track for the 2027/28 academic year. Hackney Wick is Firethorn’s third PBSA development, with the others located in Stratford, London, and Leith Walk in Edinburgh, which has reached the topping out stage and is scheduled for practical completion in September 2026. Firethorn’s growing living portfolio also includes the delivery of a 138-bedroom hostel in Dublin, sleeping up to 716 persons, and the office-to-residential conversion of One Bessborough Gardens in central London. For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group has agreed to the purchase of two parcels of land at Parsonage Road in Takeley, Essex, with plans to deliver a high-quality new residential community of 108 homes. The site, which spans almost 16 acres, was acquired through land promoter Endurance Estates and agent Sworders and has a gross development value of £50 million. 40% of the development will be delivered as affordable housing, comprising one and two-bedroom apartments, and two to four-bedroom houses for affordable rent and shared ownership. The development will also offer a range of two to five-bedroom houses for private sale. To better align with the housing needs of Uttlesford District Council, Hill will replace an existing reserved matters consent for a 66-bedroom care home on part of the land, identified as surplus to local requirements, with additional housing. A reserved matters application for 88 homes and a full application for 20 homes are expected to be submitted in October 2025, with a start on site targeted for summer 2026. The new homes will be designed to meet high environmental standards in line with Hill’s commitment to sustainable development. Features will include energy-efficient fabric-first construction, air-source heat pumps, electric vehicle charging points, cycle storage, and private or shared outdoor space. Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, said: “Parsonage Road is a well-located site that will enable us to deliver high-quality new homes in an area where there is a strong housing need. By adapting existing consents to reflect local housing requirements, we can create a new residential community that truly enhances the local area. We look forward to engaging with residents and stakeholders as we develop our detailed proposals.” Takeley is a thriving Essex village located between Bishop’s Stortford and Great Dunmow, with excellent transport links via the M11 corridor to both London and Cambridge, as well as close proximity to Stansted Airport. The village benefits from a wide range of community amenities, schools, and local services, making it an attractive setting for home movers. Hill has a proud tradition of delivering high-quality new homes in Essex, with its headquarters based locally in Waltham Abbey. Current developments include Hollymead Square in Newport and a large-scale development at Kennel Lane in Billericay, both of which showcase Hill’s design-led approach to placemaking. Together with the new proposals for Takeley, these projects demonstrate Hill’s long-term commitment to working in partnership with local authorities and other stakeholders to deliver much-needed sustainable new homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The London Irish Centre has awarded its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE, the distinguished businesswoman, entrepreneur, and industry trailblazer renowned for her transformative impact on the waste management and construction sectors. The award, presented by his excellency the Irish Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Martin Fraser, recognises Jacqueline’s outstanding contribution to the Irish community in London, where she has long been a leading advocate, mentor, and supporter. Jacqueline’s career has been marked by exceptional leadership and innovation. As one of the most influential women in the construction and waste management industries, she has not only broken barriers but also championed sustainable practices, safety standards, and opportunities for others to thrive. Her remarkable achievements have been recognised on both sides of the Irish Sea. She was previously honoured by President Michael D. Higgins with the Presidential Distinguished Service Award for her extraordinary commitment to the Irish diaspora, and in King Charles III’s 2023 Birthday Honours she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her outstanding contribution to recycling, safety, and industry. Speaking about the award, Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE said: ‘It is an incredible honour to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from the London Irish Centre. I am deeply proud of my heritage, and it has always been important to me to give back to the Irish community in London, which has played such a vital role in my own journey. To be recognised in this way, and by the Irish Ambassador, is truly humbling.” A respected role model for women in business, Jacqueline continues to inspire future generations with her unwavering dedication to community, innovation, investment and leadership. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the doors to the UK’s biggest event for the built environment prepare to open, building safety will be high on the agenda at this year’s UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham. With a wide range of exhibitors and a dedicated programme of talks, the award-winning show will spotlight best practice, compliance and the importance of meeting the highest safety standards, as well as ensuring the safety of the buildings under construction. Leading voices in the construction industry will be sharing their expertise and the latest regulatory updates, including fire safety; product regulation; working at heights; and Digital Skills Passports for workers. Taking place at the NEC from September 30th to October 2nd, UKCW Birmingham will be a bustling networking hub for all tier 1 and tier 2 contractors; housebuilders and developers; local authority and housing associations; architects; buyers and procurement experts. To help attendees get the most out of the show, UK Construction Week has launched its handy web-based app. Visitors can quickly build a personalised itinerary of talks, book meetings and navigate the floorplan all from the palm of their hand. The programme of talks on building safety includes: Tuesday September 30th Product Safety and Standards: Next Steps in Regulatory Reform Main Stage, 12.20pm With the Green Paper consultation period concluded, this session offers a timely look at the future of construction product regulation. Featuring insights from the CCPI, Construction Products Regulator and senior voices from MHCLG as well as major product users, the panel will explore what reforms are coming, how the industry should prepare, and what it means for accountability, responsibility, and compliance. Join us for a critical discussion on rebuilding trust and raising standards across the construction product supply chain. Speakers: ● Amanda Long, CEO, Code for Constructions Products Information ● Duncan Johnson, Deputy Director – Construction Product Regulation, Office for Product and Safety Standards ● Gary Neal, Head of Fire Risk Management, Skanska ● Louise Barr, Deputy Director – Construction Products Reform, Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government Post-Grenfell: Turning Regulation into Reality – One Year On Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 1.15pm A year after the final phase of the Grenfell Inquiry, the construction sector is moving from reflection to implementation, as new regulations reshape responsibilities, competency frameworks, and safety culture. This session offers updates on legislative progress, enforcement, and how businesses are adapting on the ground to meet the demands of integrity and accountability. Speakers: ● Kevin McKeown, Chartered Fire Engineer, Pillar Fire ● Paul Scott, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ● Rachael Hobbis, Partner & Head of Birmingham Office, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ● Richard Cymler, Director Registered Building Inspector Class 4 3G/H Technical Manager & Specialist Building Inspector RBCP04038R1D at Sweco Building Control Limited Wednesday October 1st Competence in Construction: The Role of CSCS cards and the Digital Skill Passport Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am As expectations around safety, transparency, and accountability grow, workforce competence is becoming a central focus in construction. This panel will explore how the industry is defining, measuring, and demonstrating competence at every level, and the practical steps being taken to meet these evolving demands. It will also examine how digital tools like Digital Skills Passports and smart verification systems are transforming the way capability is evidenced across sites. Speakers: ● Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer, GMB Union ● Colin Marrs, Editor-in-Chief, Construction News ● Faye Burnett, Super Sector Programme Director, Mace ● Mark Blundy, Group Director Health & Safety, Bowmer & Kirkland Group Raising the Standard: Improving Process Control in Roofing, Cladding, and Insulation Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 11.30am Roofing, cladding, and insulation installations often face challenges due to inconsistent processes, unclear guidance, and a lack of shared understanding across the supply chain. This session will highlight how adopting structured methodologies – such as Construction Product Quality Planning (CPQP) – can improve quality, safety, and confidence in delivery. Drawing on real-world examples, we’ll explore how manufacturers and contractors can work together to embed clarity, consistency, and accountability at every stage of the build. Speaker: ● Krish Parmar, CEO, Elevate Building Safety Thursday 2 October The Building Safety Act and Low-Rise Housing: Clarity, Compliance, and Consequences Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 11.50am While the Building Safety Act has largely focused on high-rise buildings, its implications for low-rise developments are increasingly coming into focus. This panel will unpack what the Act means for low-rise residential projects – from design accountability and compliance to resident engagement and duty-holder responsibilities. Join experts from across the sector to explore how to navigate these changes and ensure proportionate, practical implementation that doesn’t stall delivery. Speakers: ● Huw Wilkins, Senior Associate, Fenwick Elliot LLP ● Krish Parmar, CEO, Elevate Building Safety ● Nia Stewart, Partner, Burges Salmon LLP ● Olivia Jenkins, Senior Associate, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ● Tom Weller, Head of Group Building Safety, Persimmon Homes Working at Height – Risks and Compliance Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 1.30pm Discussion around the risks of working at height, the associated statutory requirements and how standards and training drive competency, safety and compliance. Speaker: ● Mark Collinson, Head of Technical, National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director, Construction, commented: “As new legislation and regulations demand greater accountability, the focus on building safety could not be more important. At UK Construction Week (UKCW), we provide a platform to ensure safety remains at the heart of every project and corner of the construction industry.” UKCW Birmingham attracts visitors and exhibitors from across the globe, and will showcase a host of international exhibitors from the likes of China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Turkey. Amongst those already confirmed are Lanes Group; Build Warranty; Reader Cement; Unibond; Xpedeon; Cure It Composites; Don & Low; Metador; and Licata. Alongside over 300 leading brands from around the world, UKCW Birmingham will feature 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars and talks across five stages. To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-birmingham-2025/cab-pr To download the show app, visit
Finning has tested and built a Cat® 988 wheel loader 150-metres below ground, enhancing operations for the UK’s biggest salt mine at Compass Minerals in Winsford, Cheshire. Compass Minerals, a global leader in mineral extraction, has invested in a Cat 988 wheel loader from Finning UK & Ireland, to support demand in its salt mining operation. Sourced from the USA, the machine was assembled and tested by Finning at its Winsford workshop. Jamie Lennon, Mine Mechanical Engineer, at Compass Minerals UK said: “Our rock salt mine is the largest and oldest working mine in the UK, lying approximately 150 meters under the Cheshire countryside. When we were looking for machinery that could meet the demands of these unique working conditions the Cat 988 ticked every box for the level of durability and capability we needed, especially as we approach the uplift in the seasonal demand for salt as we look towards the UK winter season.” Last year, over 2 million tonnes of salt were spread on roads across the country to combat harsh weather conditions, it is essential its machinery can keep up with these demands. However, there were added complexities in the delivery of this machine, as the available access shafts to the Compass Minerals UK mine are only 4 metres by 4 metres. This presented a logistical challenge as the Cat 988 is a 51-tonne machine, with a maximum height of 7455 mm 24.5ft with the bucket raised, and would not be able to access the mine in its entirety. To address the challenge, the machine was stripped down and each component was carefully lowered through the mine shaft, and then rebuilt underground by a dedicated team of Finning Field Service engineers. Once rebuilt and rigorously tested the machine was commissioned for 24/7 mining operations – where it will remain for the remainder of its life. Though it is common for heavy machinery in mining applications to be assembled underground, the challenges this presents are numerous and include heightened safety concerns, accessibility restrictions and higher associated costs. Mike McGrady, Area Manager at Finning UK & Ireland said: “The Cat 988 is designed for demanding environments, and is expected to deliver up to 15% fuel savings, as well as achieve multiple lifecycles – essential for Compass Minerals’ 24/7 operation. However, having to perform underground assembly does bring many additional variables to this delivery. “We were able to mitigate some of these challenges by performing robust testing to ensure the machine will perform to our exact specifications before beginning the meticulous process of dismantling and transporting it underground. “Delivering the parts for safe and efficient assembly by our Field Service engineers was our priority. The underground environment presents complex challenges including the risk of ground instability and accidents to limited visibility and manoeuvrability. However, the expertise and collaboration from both teams ensured a safe delivery and assembly, demonstrating the importance of having a reliable partner to mitigate risks and ensure operations remain safe, efficient, and sustainable.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals