Watford-based housebuilder Barratt David Wilson North Thames has recently thrown open its doors to work experience for students in and around Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The work experience sectors that were on offer include roles in Sustainability, Sales & Marketing, Land and Legal teams. The housebuilder is looking for eager students
Multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy Harley Haddow scooped up the Best Sustainability Project award for their work on SWG3 at the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) awards, which took place last Thursday (18th of January). Held at the Leonardo Royal in London Tower Bridge, the event celebrated the outstanding achievements of
Caddick Construction Group has appointed Dave Saville as Regional Managing Director for the North West, representing new leadership for the region following its most successful year to-date with turnover in excess of £150m in 2023. Dave joins Caddick Construction from Wates Construction where he has been Managing Director for the
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is introducing the grid-connected EW240 Electric Material Handler, the latest addition to its leading range of zero exhaust emission machines working towards a carbon-neutral future. This solution was developed in collaboration with one of our authorised partners. The EW240 Electric Material Handler is not only
Equipment labelling is a critical aspect of product manufacturing that is often overlooked. Proper equipment labelling serves multiple purposes. This comprehensive guide will delve into the importance of equipment labelling, the key elements of an effective labelling system, best practices and compliance considerations for manufacturers. By the end of this
Suppliers to the building and construction industry are set to go from strength to strength in 2024, according to a new report. Small and medium-sized firms in the sector achieved a score of 82 out of 100 in the latest Manufacturers’ Health Index, compiled quarterly by inventory software brand Unleashed. The index is
hyperTunnel has been successful in winning UK government funding for standout railway innovations at the Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE). hyperTunnel’s underpass is one of 16 schemes that will be demonstrated at GCRE’s Dulais Valley site in South Wales in 2024. The underpass will demonstrate hyperTunnel’s swarm construction technique,
Polypipe Building Services has appointed Sean Norris as Advantage Services Manager to drive the company’s focus on offsite prefabrication. Sean’s move across from his role as Product Manager within the Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation business follows a series of other senior appointments within Polypipe Building Services, as it increases
In a pioneering initiative, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) has committed to a bricklaying training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to provide employment opportunities and support for individuals transitioning out of prison. The Association of Brickwork Contractors received approval to
Dandara Living is pleased to welcome Sam Smith back to its senior leadership team, as Operations Director, with responsibility for the company’s current portfolio of almost 3,000 units under management. Sam joins following an extremely busy last 12 months for the business. This included the completion and launch of Dandara
Watford-based housebuilder Barratt David Wilson North Thames has recently thrown open its doors to work experience for students in and around Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The work experience sectors that were on offer include roles in Sustainability, Sales & Marketing, Land and Legal teams. The housebuilder is looking for eager students who wish to learn and grow in the sector of their choosing, as well as building vital connections within the construction and property industry. Throughout 2023, Barratt David Wilson North Thames has hosted four students across the Home Counties, giving them the chance to delve into what it’s like to work for a large housebuilder. Students from both Aylesbury Grammar School and Vandyke Upper School had the chance to work on-site at Clipstone Park, as well as visiting Barratt David Wilson North Thames’ Head Office in Watford, and finally, the chance to attend a sustainability event in London. All students gained valuable insight into the housebuilding industry to take the next step in their career, and gain hands on experience with professionals in the sector in which they will be hoping to find work in for the future. Evie-Jean Ellington-Reason, student from Vandyke Upper School, commented: “I started my work experience over the summer working in the sales & marketing suite at Clipstone Park in Leighton Buzzard. My ultimate aim is to have a career on the sales side of property, so being able to see how sales advisors at Barratt David Wilson North Thames operate with customers, present show homes and also host events was so valuable.” Pa-ansu, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “”I am thankful for the opportunity I had with Barratt David Wilson North Thames over October half term. My career goals are to go into the legal realm, so spending time with legal professionals was a fabulous insight, seeing the day-to-day duties, career progression in the industry and what skills are needed. Witnessing the expertise of professionals during meetings, while also being assigned both research tasks and case studies reinforced my passion to pursue a career in law and wasn’t something I’d be able to learn in a classroom.” Adam, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “At every stage of the work experience, colleagues were welcoming and inviting, which made me more keen for the world of work. My mentors in the Land department were incredibly helpful and proactive in inviting me to meetings, and I was able to actively participate in discussions, observe their approach to different challenges, and learn from their experiences. They patiently answered my queries and were committed to enhancing my learning, keeping me actively engaged throughout the week.” Max Ward, student from Aylesbury Grammar School added: “I was lucky enough to be invited to an event in central London with Barratt Development’s Sustainability team in December. The sustainability sector is something which is only going to grow so I am extremely keen in gaining as much experience to hopefully pursue a career in the industry. It was so great to meet so many industry professionals on the day and talk about the opportunities in sustainability.” Marc Woolfe, Director of Sales and Marketing at Barratt David Wilson North Thames concludes: “It is of such importance that as an established housebuilder, we can offer up work experience positions to those who live locally to our developments. From seeing how beneficial it has been for Evie, Pa-ansu, Max and Adam has made us as a team realise the benefits of teaching a future aspirer in the industry. We hope that the students enjoyed their time with us and that it has solidified their future career aspirations. We hopefully look forward to seeing or even working with them again in the near future.” If you or anyone you know are looking for some work experience in the sectors listed above, then please email erin@building-relations.co.uk or call 07727 350462. For further details about Barratt Homes North Thames, its new ‘Rent then Buy’ Scheme or the new homes at Sawbridge Park, Clipstone Park, Linmere, Kingsbrook or St Rumbold’s Fields, visit www.dwh.co.uk / www.barratthomes.co.uk or call 0333 355 8500 / 0333 355 8501. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy Harley Haddow scooped up the Best Sustainability Project award for their work on SWG3 at the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) awards, which took place last Thursday (18th of January). Held at the Leonardo Royal in London Tower Bridge, the event celebrated the outstanding achievements of those in the industry, with the awards aim being to champion the best people, projects and companies from the engineering realm. Praised by the judges for their creative flare, Harley Haddow were commended for their work on the iconic Glaswegian event space SWG3, as part of the BODYHEAT project. Harley Haddow’s work with SWG3 helped revolutionise the event space by turning event goers body heat into reusable energy. The consultancy held the ACE Net Zero Adviser status since 2021 and is continuing to wave the Net Zero flag within the sector. The consultancy was also recognised in the Emerging Professionals category, with Daniel Ross, Associate Director at Harley Haddow, being highly commended. Jim Kellachan Director at Harley Haddow said “Winning this highly sought-after award provides a great sense of recognition for our work at Harley Haddow. Over the course of last year, we have collaborated with clients on a range of exciting projects, such as SWG3, and the success reflects the commitment and expertise of our team, whose hard work has been key to turning this win into a reality. We are privileged to be awarded Best Sustainability Project and can’t wait to build on this further in 2024.” The consultancy continues to go from strength to strength as they welcomed Shweta Salvankar who will strengthen sustainability offering across the UK and will be based their northwest hub office in Manchester, with further recruitment underway to expand their team across the UK. If you would like to know more about opportunities within Harley Haddow please visit: https://www.harleyhaddow.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Caddick Construction Group has appointed Dave Saville as Regional Managing Director for the North West, representing new leadership for the region following its most successful year to-date with turnover in excess of £150m in 2023. Dave joins Caddick Construction from Wates Construction where he has been Managing Director for the North and Midlands since 2022 following three years as Business Unit Director for the North West. With 30 years of industry experience, Dave brings a wealth of expertise to his new role at Caddick Construction, having led a number of major private and public sector projects before leading John Sisk & Son and Wates’ North West regional businesses. As Regional MD at Caddick Construction, Dave will lead a team of 130 in delivering a diverse portfolio of projects across the North West, including high profile residential, commercial, manufacturing and industrial developments. Dave’s appointment closely follows news that current Regional MD, Ian Threadgold, is set to retire following a nine-year tenure at Caddick Construction. With a career spanning three decades, Dave has held a number of leadership roles, including 20 years with Laing O’Rourke, with projects including a number of PFI, healthcare and education projects delivered using modern methods of construction. In Dave’s previous role he oversaw projects across the North and Midlands in the leisure, low-rise residential, blue light, education and manufacturing sectors. The latter included Astrazeneca’s new Sterile Production Plant in Macclesfield. Of his appointment, Dave commented: “Caddick is a strong brand in the North West, and its position in the market is down to the Caddick business and its balance sheet. I’m honoured to be taking the reins of a business with such an excellent reputation, and I’m excited to be continuing to deliver the high standards Caddick is known for. “As I take on this role I want to recognise the many talented people that make up the North West Caddick team, and they will be my focus, along with our clients, projects and supply chain. Looking to the future, I’m determined to preserve and build on Caddick’s success as an approachable and sustainable business that works with integrity. In-line with Caddick Construction Group’s wider strategy, we will also look to grow our presence on regional frameworks to balance our portfolio of public and private sector projects.” Paul Dodsworth, Managing Director of Caddick Construction Group, comments: “Ian Threadgold built an incredible team, a stable business and a strong reputation for Caddick Construction in the North West, all of which we’re committed to nurture and grow. Having worked with Dave previously, I’m confident that he has the right attributes, passion, knowledge and determination to achieve this. We’re very excited to welcome Dave to the Caddick team and look forward to what the future holds for Caddick in the North West and Cumbria.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) is introducing the grid-connected EW240 Electric Material Handler, the latest addition to its leading range of zero exhaust emission machines working towards a carbon-neutral future. This solution was developed in collaboration with one of our authorised partners. The EW240 Electric Material Handler is not only a better choice for the environment, but it opens up a range of new business opportunities too. With zero exhaust emissions and near silent operation, it is the perfect solution for noise sensitive areas, outdoors or even indoors, low carbon zones and for working during unsociable hours. Its quieter operation means less disruption to the operator and to people working on site, as well as to those in the surrounding areas. Sustainability in Action Electric solutions like this EW240 Electric Material Handler are perfectly suited to waste and recycling applications – helping to deliver a more sustainable way of working to match the environmental ambitions and operations of the very business itself. Thanks to electrification, the EW240 Electric Material Handler can go longer between services which means lower maintenance costs compared to a diesel alternative. With no engine-related consumables such as engine oil, filters and water separator, it also reduces downtime and costs. No time for downtime A cable connection makes the EW240 Electric Material Handler the perfect choice to increase productivity and lower operating costs in static applications. This electric-powered Material Handler gives operators the same performance and control as provided by conventional machines – with the added advantage that there is no need to stop work to refuel or recharge. Instead, operators can keep working for as long as they want – and with outstanding levels of operator comfort, this might be some time. Operator experience is further enhanced with a heated and suspended seat, and outstanding visibility thanks to the flat machine hood, rear and side view camera and LED lights. Grid-Connected Solutions Grid-connected solutions like the EW240 Electric Material Handler are ideal for use in static applications that are required to carry out repetitive tasks such as material handling, for example in the waste and recycling industry. Volvo CE continues to invest in technological solutions tailored to industry needs. Thomas Nather, SAS Commercial Project Manager for excavators at Volvo CE, says: “The EW240 Electric Material Handler is the ideal hard-working sustainable solution for waste and recycling – an industry where circularity is in close focus. By providing near silent and zero emission electric solutions, we are supporting our customers need to work more sustainably and deliver on their transformation journey as well as lower the cost of their operations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Equipment labelling is a critical aspect of product manufacturing that is often overlooked. Proper equipment labelling serves multiple purposes. This comprehensive guide will delve into the importance of equipment labelling, the key elements of an effective labelling system, best practices and compliance considerations for manufacturers. By the end of this guide, you will clearly understand how to implement an efficient equipment labelling system for your products. The Importance Of Equipment Labelling Effective equipment labelling plays a pivotal role in various aspects of the manufacturing process, including: The necessity of equipment labelling in the manufacturing sector—where metal labels and tags serve as a staple for robust and long-lasting identification solutions—is indisputable. Key Elements Of An Effective Equipment Labelling System To create a successful equipment labelling system, manufacturers should consider the following key elements: These fundamental components collectively lay the groundwork for a robust equipment labelling system, supporting manufacturers to bolster safety and efficiency. Best Practices For Equipment Labelling Implementing best practices in equipment labelling is essential for a successful labelling system. Here are some recommendations: Enforcing these best practices fosters an efficient labelling system and cultivates a culture of precision and safety within manufacturing. Compliance Considerations For Manufacturers Manufacturers must navigate various industry-specific regulations and standards related to equipment labelling. Here are some compliance considerations: Manufacturers must remain vigilant about compliance considerations to ensure their equipment labels align with industry regulations and enhance product safety and legal adherence. Conclusion Equipment labelling is indispensable in manufacturing, ensuring safety, compliance, traceability and efficiency. By implementing a robust labelling system and following best practices and regulations, manufacturers can elevate product quality, safety and competitiveness while mitigating risks and liabilities.
Suppliers to the building and construction industry are set to go from strength to strength in 2024, according to a new report. Small and medium-sized firms in the sector achieved a score of 82 out of 100 in the latest Manufacturers’ Health Index, compiled quarterly by inventory software brand Unleashed. The index is calculated from a number of key performance metrics including sales, purchasing, and internal efficiencies that impact stocking levels and lead times across 16 manufacturing categories. A score of 50 points or more indicates that a sector is performing well against these metrics. Jarrod Adam, Head of Product at Unleashed, said: “Manufacturers in every industry category were hit by challenges from all directions in 2023 – including high inflation and rising borrowing costs. “The UK is home to over 98,000 construction companies, many of which are SMEs that make a critical contribution to both the industry and the UK economy. “It’s clear from our index that firms have recovered well from the supply chain disruption – and high cost of materials – seen during the pandemic and its aftermath. The tough economic climate doesn’t appear to have dampened homeowners’ appetite for renovations because they recognise the long-term value they can have. “Our index also shows that lead times have dropped for building and construction, down to 17 days – below the national average of 20. However, the industry is facing high overstock levels at £364,502 – the highest of any industry, and well over double the average level of £141,397. This reflects the slowdown in bigger house building projects due to high borrowing costs and economic uncertainty.” Looking ahead to the coming year, he added: “While the building and construction sector work to overcome costs and reduce their overstock levels, our analysis suggests that they are in a strong position to meet this demand because they have finely-tuned their inventory management processes. Of course, any improvements they make would put them on an even stronger footing in this highly-competitive and fast-moving sector.” Bigger picture: the haves and have-nots of UK manufacturing Overall, the UK manufacturing industry rebounded at the end of 2023, with 11 of the 16 categories studied scoring more than 50 health points in the Manufacturers’ Health Index – contributing to the average of 77. Top of the table were cosmetics and personal care, and industrial machinery, raw material and equipment, which both achieved a near-perfect score of 98. Office equipment and supplies was bottom of the table at just 18 points, followed by food at 30 and electronics and communication at 38. Lead times have also more than halved from the 43 day average of 2022 to 20 at the end of 2023. However, the legacy of the pandemic is still clear, with ‘just in case’ overstocking now a fixture for many businesses. In the latter part of the year, excess inventory levels grew to £141,397 compared to £119,183 for the same period in 2022. Retail and consumer-centric manufacturers appear to have a better handle of their inventory compared to heavier industries like building and construction or metal and fabrication where longer lead times are already more typical. For more information and for the full research, visit: https://www.unleashedsoftware.com/blog/manufacturing-health-index Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
hyperTunnel has been successful in winning UK government funding for standout railway innovations at the Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE). hyperTunnel’s underpass is one of 16 schemes that will be demonstrated at GCRE’s Dulais Valley site in South Wales in 2024. The underpass will demonstrate hyperTunnel’s swarm construction technique, which uses AI, digital surveying and swarm robotics to effectively 3D print a structure in the ground before any excavation takes place. The result is designed to be an underground construction project that is faster and less expensive to deliver, and which carries less risk, less disruption, less waste and a lower carbon footprint than current cut-and-cover construction techniques. The project aims to provide an economically viable alternative to hazardous level crossings, while improving safety, increasing rail capacity and avoiding inconvenience to road and rail users. hyperTunnel will build a 20-metre-long pedestrian-sized tunnel under a GCRE’s test track, designed to allow the track above to remain open throughout the construction process. “We are delighted that the GCRE sees the same potential in the hyperTunnel method as our partners in the construction industry,” said hyperTunnel co-founder Steve Jordan. “Having spent many hundreds of hours developing our robot fleet in the lab in Basingstoke, the system is now ripe for being proven on a real site, in accelerated test conditions, and which can be visited by interested parties. The GCRE facility is going to be a huge opportunity for us and we can’t wait to get started and to present a feasible technological solution to the longstanding level-crossing issue.” Currently under construction in South Wales, The Global Centre of Rail Excellence is a world class facility for rail research, testing and certification of rolling stock, infrastructure and cutting-edge new technologies currently being developed in South Wales. Located on a 700-hectare site, GCRE will become Europe’s premier site for rail and mobility innovation. It aims to undertake world-class research, testing and certification of innovative new rail technologies, acting as an incubator for pioneering projects. This project is funded by the Department for Business and Trade through the competition ‘GCRE: Railway Construction Innovation Phase 2’ delivered by InnovateUK in collaboration with GCRE. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Polypipe Building Services has appointed Sean Norris as Advantage Services Manager to drive the company’s focus on offsite prefabrication. Sean’s move across from his role as Product Manager within the Polypipe Civils & Green Urbanisation business follows a series of other senior appointments within Polypipe Building Services, as it increases its focus on providing sustainable solutions for customers. Having joined Polypipe in 2010 as a Business Development Representative, Sean brings with him extensive knowledge of the building services sector and strategic projects. In his new role he will oversee an ambitious growth plan for the company’s Advantage Service, which provides a bespoke fully fabricated drainage and supply systems solution for specifiers and contractors. Sean said: “Everyone is talking about the importance of offsite and modular construction which is our biggest challenge and the largest opportunity for us. “As a business we want to work more closely with developers and contractors to consider the challenges they face and how we can support – for example by implementing product development such as pre-insulating pipework to make installation easier. “Because we can offer bespoke fabrication in-house at Polypipe Building Services the opportunities are endless, with offsite fabrication frequently being chosen as a preferred construction method by hotel chains and pub groups. The challenge for us is to understand how we need to evolve our products and processes to meet their needs. “We’re aiming to expand the Advantage Service into next year and beyond, growing our 30-strong technical and fabrication teams. Additionally, I’ll be looking to simplify our processes to align with our customer’s needs.” Ian Crickmore, Technical Director of Polypipe Building Services, commented: “Sean is a very welcome addition to the Advantage team and will play a key role in shaping the direction of our prefabricated service. “Offsite construction will play a vital part within the construction sector as specifiers are being challenged to do more with less, while still delivering on quality and sustainability standards. “It’s also a more environmentally friendly option because it minimises waste, which ties into our commitment as part of the Genuit Group to become a sustainable, low-carbon business, and to deliver sustainable solutions.” For more information about all the latest products at Polypipe Building Services go to www.polypipe.com/commercial-building-services Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a pioneering initiative, the Association of Brickwork Contractors (ABC) has committed to a bricklaying training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. This groundbreaking endeavour aims to provide employment opportunities and support for individuals transitioning out of prison. The Association of Brickwork Contractors received approval to deliver a comprehensive training programme designed specifically for those soon to be leaving prison and seeking employment. This programme at Thorn Cross Prison near Warrington not only offers vocational training but also serves as a platform for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The social value of this initiative is immeasurable, benefiting both the individuals seeking a fresh start and the employers involved. By equipping prison leavers with marketable skills and fostering their successful re-entry into the workforce, the programme contributes to reducing recidivism rates and promoting positive change in the community. To facilitate this transformative initiative, the ABC Assessment Centre is bringing its state-of-the-art training rigs into Thorn Cross prison and, in partnership with Cara Brickwork, is delivering a 16-week training programme to Level 2 Diploma students. This intensive course provides learners with the additional skills necessary to work on sites managed by ABC Members, ensuring they are equipped to sustain employment upon release. The training programme follows a model similar to that employed in partnership with Further Education (FE) colleges. However, what sets this programme apart is that the candidates are already linked to an employer before their release, ensuring a smooth transition and a greater chance of securing stable employment. Crucially, the scheme has garnered the support of eight member companies located in close proximity to the prison. These companies have committed to employing the students who successfully complete the training and rehabilitation programme, providing them with tangible job opportunities and a pathway towards a better future. The partnership between the ABC and the Ministry of Justice exemplifies a progressive and inclusive approach to rehabilitation and workforce development. By providing individuals with the necessary skills and employment prospects, this programme lays a solid foundation for successful reintegration and a brighter future. CEO of the Association of Brickwork Contractors, Eve Livett, says: “We are incredibly proud to have launched this training and rehabilitation programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice. By extending opportunities for education and employment to those leaving prison, we aim to break the cycle of reoffending and empower individuals to rebuild their lives. We believe in the transformative power of second chances and the importance of offering support and opportunities for those who seek a fresh start.” Neil Allen, Managing Director at Cara Brickwork, comments: “Cara Group has been involved with Thorn Cross for many years, offering guidance and advice to the brickwork department with the aim of enhancing the prospects for prisoners when they are released. Through this established relationship, I was able to introduce the ABC to the team at Thorn Cross who have now got the contract to deliver the training courses within the prison. “The prisoners that I have spoken with and interviewed seem like genuine people who have taken the wrong path in life and need a second chance. We hope that by educating them while they are in prison will pave the path for a brighter future upon release. We want them to re-enter society with useful skills and a renewed sense of purpose. “We are soon to be taking our first prisoner out on ROTL (Release on Temporary License) and are excited about helping to advance his career towards becoming a bricklayer. We hope that when he can see the possibilities of the career that could be ahead for him, that it will discourage any future involvement in crime.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Dandara Living is pleased to welcome Sam Smith back to its senior leadership team, as Operations Director, with responsibility for the company’s current portfolio of almost 3,000 units under management. Sam joins following an extremely busy last 12 months for the business. This included the completion and launch of Dandara Living’s second Build to Rent development in Birmingham, and the forward sale and funding of the 391-unit Renshaw’s Yard development in Staines, to Greystar Real Estate Partners. The company, which has a growing portfolio of almost 8,000 home and student beds across the UK, also recently secured a five-year renewal instruction from ECE Real Estate Partners to continue to manage their BtR portfolio in the UK. Speaking about his appointment, Sam Smith said: “In spite of the challenging economic and regulatory environment, Dandara Living has ambitious plans for the future. “Having successfully launched a further development in Birmingham and secured the forward sale of Renshaw’s Yard to Greystar at a time when year-on-year transaction volumes were significantly lower, is further recognition of Dandara Living’s ability to attract major industry players and the confidence in our brand, quality and offering. This a very exciting time to be part of the team.” In addition to heading up Dandara Living Management, Sam will also work with Dandara Living’s business development unit to explore opportunities to expand the management arm of the company through offering services to other development partners. Jim Davies, CEO of Dandara Living, comments: “This is a pivotal time for the business as we continue to develop our pipeline and opportunities to further evolve our operational management platform and offering. Sam has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the sector, and I am very pleased to have him on board.” Dandara Living currently operates six BTR developments in the UK and has a further 17 sites in the pipeline. Its next development of 342 BTR units plus 5,597sqft of resident amenity at Granary Quay on the Clyde waterfront in Glasgow is now nearing completion. In addition, Stafford Yard, the company’s first development in Bristol comprising 295 apartments and 5,164sqft resident amenity, is set to complete later this year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
