Barwood Capital (“Barwood”) has celebrated the topping out of Explore, its new Grade-A office building in Richmond. The scheme will provide best-in-class office space with leading ESG credentials to the South East market. Formerly known as Eton House, the building was acquired by Barwood’s Regional Property Growth Fund IV in
Wexford County Council has appointed Ayesa as the Design consultant for the Trinity Wharf project in Wexford Town. The project, with an estimated total investment of €120 million, including €24 million of public investment, is slated to commence construction works in the fourth quarter of 2024. The Trinity Wharf project,
CPD explains important practical changes and additions to BS 5422 ROCKWOOL, the UK’s leading stone wool insulation manufacturer, has launched an ‘Introduction to BS 5422’, a new CPD (Continuing Professional Development) module to support specifiers and engineers with advice on how to plan and implement the insulation of building services
Steel Window Association members, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) and Steel Window Fittings (SWF) brought their individual expertise together while working on the County Hall project. Building on its 30-year long association with the former GLC headquarters on the south bank of the Thames, ASWS has provided its unique skillset
Bellway has been given the go ahead to build a new 220-home development in Hailsham, which will feature seven acres of public open space. The housebuilder is to deliver the new properties on a 24-acre site off Mill Road after receiving planning permission from Wealden District Council. The development, which
As the holiday season approaches, the quest for the perfect gift becomes a delightful pursuit. For the discerning tastes of the British, a gift that is laconic, elegant, and yet immensely memorable holds a special allure. Enter the enchanting world of engraved photos inside 3D crystal cubes — a truly
Contracts Awarded for construction projects in the UK fell £11.1bn to £69.2bn in 2023, a 14% reduction from a record £80.4bn in 2022, according to the latest analysis from construction analysts Barbour ABI. Sectors hit by the cost-of-living crisis were particularly affected with residential housebuilding down 14%, commercial developments down
Latest set of results for the prior 12-month trading period show a strong improvement in profitability, whilst maintaining its core focus on consolidation and building a strong and resilient platform for the future. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today
Leading capital infrastructure and engineering services company, Avove, has been awarded a multi-million-pound design and build framework agreement with Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) as part of NWG’s Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8) £3.6 billion investment programme. The design and build framework, which commences in January 2024 for up to 12
SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, has launched a new software solution designed to address the ‘once in a generation’ challenges facing the facilities management industry. Facilities-iQ, a completely new ‘smart’ software solution has been designed to aid regulatory compliance, improve auditing, and facilitate better collaboration between building owners,
Barwood Capital (“Barwood”) has celebrated the topping out of Explore, its new Grade-A office building in Richmond. The scheme will provide best-in-class office space with leading ESG credentials to the South East market. Formerly known as Eton House, the building was acquired by Barwood’s Regional Property Growth Fund IV in December 2021 with the aim of repositioning it to prime sustainable office space. The project has involved a full back-to-frame refurbishment, including an additional floor of accommodation and a roof terrace as well as extensive common areas, garden and amenity space. Delivering much-needed high quality office accommodation, Explore offers 45,000 sq ft of space and is targeting BREEAM Excellent, Net Zero in operation and an EPC A rating. Measures to support energy efficiency and biodiversity include enhancing greening and planting opportunities in both the common areas and private spaces plus electric vehicle charging points. The redesign also focuses on measures to support employee health and wellbeing, with amenities including 42 cycle parking spaces, communal lounge, a gym plus changing rooms and showers. The scheme has secured WiredScore Gold and is targeting Fitwell accreditation. The refurbishment has been carried out by RED Construction Group, with Moorevale the development manager for the scheme. A ceremony was held on 10th January, where members of the team gathered to celebrate the building’s topping out. Adam Smith, Asset Management Director at Barwood Capital, said: “Demand for high quality, sustainable and amenity focused office space remains strong in Richmond, where there’s a shortage of Grade-A accommodation. With sustainability and wellbeing at the forefront of the design, Explore delivers a best-in-class option that meets the priorities of businesses today.” Mark Iori, Managing Director at RED Construction London, commented: “We are incredibly proud of the role we have played in completely reimagining this scheme from inside-out, creating a high-calibre, future-proofed office product in Richmond. The elements of this milestone scheme called on many of RED Construction Group’s technical specialities and capabilities, and we have enjoyed working alongside such a skilled team for Barwood Capital’s multi-million-pound development. Explore now serves as another example of RED’s experience remodelling existing sites as prime sustainable office space, evolving the workplace with employee mental health and wellbeing at its core.” Charlie Bishop, Director at Moorevale, added: “As well as its excellent residential provision and good local schools, Richmond enjoys a thriving food and drink scene and has much to offer for businesses and their employees. Quick access to the centre of London via train, plus close reach to the M4, M3 and beyond, further adds to the town’s appeal and we’re expecting strong demand for space at Explore Richmond.” Andrew Willcock and Oliva Jones of Savills are acting as joint agents alongside Chris Bulmer and Clare Lane of Bray Fox Smith. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wexford County Council has appointed Ayesa as the Design consultant for the Trinity Wharf project in Wexford Town. The project, with an estimated total investment of €120 million, including €24 million of public investment, is slated to commence construction works in the fourth quarter of 2024. The Trinity Wharf project, spanning 10 acres, is a vital element of Wexford County Council’s strategy to attract foreign direct investment and generate high-quality employment opportunities. The initiative is funded under ‘Call 2’ of the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF), aimed at enhancing urban areas to make them more appealing for residents, businesses, and investors. This multi-use development includes modern office spaces, hotel accommodations, a multi-story car park, a cultural and events building, residential units, a new marina, and a boardwalk connecting Trinity Wharf to Paul Quay and the Crescent. The project is integral to the long-term regeneration and enhancement of Wexford town and environs. Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, councillor John Flemming commented: “The appointment of Ayesa marks a significant milestone in Wexford’s economic development. Today’s announcement signals a crucial step forward in delivering this project for the people of Wexford and beyond,” Luke O’Connor, Design & Build Lead for Ayesa, commented on the appointment: “Ayesa, with our delivery partners, is delighted to play a crucial role in the regenerative project for Wexford town. Our involvement aims to craft a sustainable legacy for businesses, the town, and its citizens,” “With works set to commence on site by Q4 2024, the Trinity Wharf project is a major multi-use development that will greatly enhance the quality of life for people in Wexford,” said Mayor of Wexford, Councillor John Hegarty. “This is a rare opportunity to transform an under-utilised brownfield site and bring renewal to a historic part of Wexford Town deserving of a new lease of life.” Tom Enright, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, characterised Trinity Wharf as one of the most exciting and ambitious economic development projects in the county. “Trinity Wharf is a prime example of how the local authority has integrated a diverse set of economic, social, and recreational needs into a generational opportunity,” he said. Ayesa’s strength lies in its multidisciplinary expertise across waste management, geotechnical engineering, marine and coastal engineering, and civil engineering. These diverse disciplines will aim to collaboratively contribute to the development’s success by ensuring that the design not only meets regulatory requirements but also aligns with sustainable practices. Ayesa’s holistic and integrated approach demonstrates its commitment to overcoming challenges and crafting a resilient design that respects both the historical significance and ecological sensitivity of the site. To find out more about Ayesa’s award-winning water engineering work click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CPD explains important practical changes and additions to BS 5422 ROCKWOOL, the UK’s leading stone wool insulation manufacturer, has launched an ‘Introduction to BS 5422’, a new CPD (Continuing Professional Development) module to support specifiers and engineers with advice on how to plan and implement the insulation of building services systems following a recent update to the standard. The CPD coincides with the recent publication of ROCKWOOL’s Guide to BS 5422:2023. BS 5422 provides a method for specifying thermal insulating materials needed on pipes, tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment for certain defined applications and conditions within the temperature range – 40°C to +700°C in domestic, non-domestic and commercial buildings. The standard works as guidance for consultants, engineers, contractors and manufacturers of thermal insulation in the building services sector. It supports Approved Document L as the reference point to determine the minimum thickness of insulation required to limit heat losses and gains from building services. ROCKWOOL’s new CPD module explores the factors that need to be considered when deciding on the insulation of building services systems according to BS 5422. It also demonstrates how the standard aims to improve the living and working environment of the building as well as make it safer and more energy efficient. “With BS5422:2023, the insulation requirements for building services and HVAC systems have been aligned closely with current thermal Building Regulations,” comments Will Wigfield, Product Manager – Fire Protection & HVAC at ROCKWOOL UK. “The new CPD will explain how the standard makes it easier for designers and specifiers to choose the most appropriate material for each project and allow them to exceed the minimum requirements if they wish.” Learn more about BS 5422, register to attend the ROCKWOOL CPD session at https://www.rockwool.com/uk/advice-and-inspiration/learning/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Steel Window Association members, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) and Steel Window Fittings (SWF) brought their individual expertise together while working on the County Hall project. Building on its 30-year long association with the former GLC headquarters on the south bank of the Thames, ASWS has provided its unique skillset to a company carrying out an equally unusual style of redevelopment within the property’s long neglected top floor level. ASWS carried out a comprehensive, yet carefully considered repair and replacement contract at County Hall. Level 5 of County Hall had actually been empty since 1994, with little maintenance carried out and a number of the dormer window structures having been boarded up or infilled with brickwork for the past two decades. Following its completion of a detailed condition survey on behalf of the project consultants, ASWS was duly tasked with repairing and easing a total of 134 faceted bay windows, many of which had suffered heavy corrosion. Director of ASWS, Kris Bennell, recounted, “The original windows featured Medium Universal suite steel frames, so for the 11 which had to be reinstated we produced close replicas using W20 sections; though across the job as a whole we were asked to provide a ‘light touch’ restoration. This is very much the ethos of the client which is committed to providing sustainable workspaces; as well as offering help with issues such as funding and recruitment.” “Rather than gutting out the 5th floor, the old parquet floor was cleaned and preserved while many wall areas were left bare. For the fenestration, new handles were fixed to the original back-plates, while we designed new blocks which were fitted to the heads, for the spring catches to engage with. Any broken panes were replaced and all of the hinges reset to ensure ease of operation.” Kris Bennell concluded, “This is one of the very first contracts of its type in the country, where interventions have been kept to an absolute minimum – based on sustainability and environmental impact rather than cost – and we have been very proud to be involved.” James Barrett, from Steel Window Fittings, said, “It was fantastic to see our hardware in-situ on such a prestigious building. The B205N09F is a unique window handle with a sleek, curving lever that complements the Edwardian baroque architecture.” Steel Window Fittings’ duplex system was selected to stay true to the building’s heritage appearance whilst providing functionality to the large, multilight windows. Adding a duplex system produces a tight seal between the frame and sash, reducing weathering and promoting longevity. Along with the handle fittings, the B59KN OG – a classic slide stay with a fitted round knob – was also installed onto the bottom section of the window to allow for fixing of the window position for safety within the building. All hardware was supplied in a matching oil rubbed bronze finish to blend with the traditional window frames throughout level 5 in County Hall. The SWA offers UK wide coverage with member companies able to carry out the full range of contracts from the repair and restoration of heritage windows through to the installation of major fenestration packages in contemporary commercial, residential and other types of developments. For further information on the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway has been given the go ahead to build a new 220-home development in Hailsham, which will feature seven acres of public open space. The housebuilder is to deliver the new properties on a 24-acre site off Mill Road after receiving planning permission from Wealden District Council. The development, which will be known as Woodbury Manor, will consist of 143 three and four-bedroom houses for private sale and 77 affordable homes, including one and two-bedroom apartments and two and three-bedroom houses for rent or shared ownership. The plans also include a convenience store located at the site entrance off Mill Road. The public open space will include an exercise trail and play areas with a range of recreational equipment for all ages, including toddlers, older children and adults. The development will also feature wildflower grassland and wetland features to enhance biodiversity, while bat boxes, hedgehog domes, habitat piles and bee bricks will help protect and encourage local wildlife. Bellway will also pay a community infrastructure levy of £3.3 million as part of over £4 million investment in local facilities and services. Chris Moore, Managing Director for Bellway Kent, said: “We have worked closely with the local authority and have taken on board its advice and comments to present a project which will create the optimum design and layout for this site. “This will be a sustainable development where every home will be fitted with an electric vehicle charging point and benefit from the energy savings and green credentials associated with all of Bellway’s new-build energy-efficient homes. “A key feature of Woodbury Manor will be the seven acres of public open space which will provide children’s play areas and an exercise trail. These facilities will be open for public use so will benefit not only residents living on the site but the wider community as a whole. There will also be a network of footpaths and cycleways to encourage residents to use greener forms of transport. “This development will feature a sustainable drainage system, while the landscaping plan for site includes planting new species and retaining the existing trees and hedgerows. “Alongside the community infrastructure levy, we will be providing a further £975,000 to fund upgrades and improvements in local infrastructure. Within this £500,000 will help go toward improving the local bus services to allow people to leave their cars at home and £10,000 for the extension of a 30mph zone near the development and parking management measures on Mill Road.” Work is due to start on construction in late summer, with the first homes due to be released for sale in autumn/winter 2024. For more information about Woodbury Manor call 01323 315389 or visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/kent/woodbury-manor. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As the holiday season approaches, the quest for the perfect gift becomes a delightful pursuit. For the discerning tastes of the British, a gift that is laconic, elegant, and yet immensely memorable holds a special allure. Enter the enchanting world of engraved photos inside 3D crystal cubes — a truly wonderful souvenir that captures moments in a way that transcends the ordinary. In this article, we explore the unique charm of 3D crystal cubes as a cool and unforgettable holiday gift, perfectly suited to the refined sensibilities of the British. Discover how the convergence of technology and craftsmanship has given rise to a gift that not only looks like a cube but, in a twist of elegance, that looks like a diamond. The Art of Gifting in the UK. In the United Kingdom, where a blend of tradition and modernity defines the cultural landscape, gift-giving during the holidays is not merely an exchange but an expression of sentiments. The British appreciate gifts that seamlessly balance simplicity and sophistication, leaving a lasting impression without being overly ostentatious. Laconic Elegance. British tastes lean towards laconic elegance—a style that is understated, refined, and yet radiates a quiet charm. This preference is not only reflected in personal attire and home decor but extends to the gifts exchanged during festive seasons. Memorability Matters.While simplicity is valued, the British also place a high premium on memorability. A truly great holiday gift is not just about the moment of exchange but about creating lasting memories that linger in the hearts of both the giver and the recipient. The Charm of Engraved 3D Crystal Cubes. Timeless Appeal.Engraved 3D crystal cubes exude a timeless appeal, blending modern technology with the age-old charm of crystal craftsmanship. These cubes are not mere objects; they are crystalline canvases that immortalize cherished moments. Capturing the Essence of Moments.The enchantment lies in the ability of 3D crystal cubes to capture the essence of moments. The meticulous engraving process transforms a two-dimensional photograph into a three-dimensional masterpiece, creating a tangible and visually striking representation of memories. Why Engraved 3D Crystal Cubes Make Cool Holiday Gifts. Personalization at Its Pinnacle.The heart of the appeal lies in the unparalleled level of personalization. Engraving a photo inside a 3D crystal cube allows the gift-giver to curate a unique piece of art—a timeless treasure that reflects the bond between the giver and the recipient. Elegance in Simplicity.The beauty of 3D crystal cubes lies in their simplicity. The clean lines and geometric precision of the cube, combined with the ethereal quality of crystal, create an elegant masterpiece that aligns seamlessly with British sensibilities. Tangible and Lasting Memories.Unlike conventional gifts that may fade with time, an engraved 3D crystal cube becomes a tangible and lasting memory. Placed on a mantel or a shelf, it serves as a constant reminder of the shared moments and the emotions encapsulated within. Aesthetically Pleasing Display.The aesthetic appeal of a 3D crystal cube adds to its cool factor. When illuminated, the intricately engraved photo within the cube comes to life, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow that enhances its visual allure. Ordering in the UK. For those seeking to gift a holiday surprise that transcends the ordinary, ordering an engraved 3D crystal cube in the shape of a cut-corner cube that [looks like a diamond] is a captivating choice. This elegant rendition adds a touch of sophistication to the classic cubic form, making it an exquisite piece that mirrors the brilliance of a diamond. Choosing the Perfect Photo. Capturing a Special Moment.The key to creating a truly memorable engraved crystal cube is in choosing the perfect photo. Opt for a snapshot that captures a special moment—a shared celebration, a cherished trip, or a candid expression of joy. Embracing Versatility.The cut-corner cube design allows for versatility in the engraving process. Experiment with different angles, compositions, and orientations to find the arrangement that best complements the shape of the cube. Curating a Collage.For a truly unique touch, consider curating a collage of photos. Each side of the cube becomes a canvas, telling a visual story of shared experiences, creating a multifaceted masterpiece that adds an extra layer of depth. A Gift Beyond Dimensions. As the holiday season unfolds, the joy of giving takes center stage. For those in pursuit of a gift that transcends dimensions—both literally and figuratively—an engraved 3D crystal cube that looks like a diamond emerges as a cool and unforgettable choice. This holiday, let the magic of crystalline artistry turn moments into treasures, and may the sparkle of shared memories light up the festive season.
Contracts Awarded for construction projects in the UK fell £11.1bn to £69.2bn in 2023, a 14% reduction from a record £80.4bn in 2022, according to the latest analysis from construction analysts Barbour ABI. Sectors hit by the cost-of-living crisis were particularly affected with residential housebuilding down 14%, commercial developments down 15% and Hotel and Leisure falling dramatically by 29%. A lack of confidence in the market was also reflected in applications for new construction projects, which fell by 16% to under £100bn. Housing applications are now 21% down on pre-pandemic levels. Barbour Consulting Economist Kelly Forrest commented: “2023 was challenging for the UK construction sector. In addition to viability challenges from higher construction costs and borrowing rates, consumers and business confidence remained weak. 2023’s good news stories were largely confined to the public sector as the government’s flagship school and hospital building programmes finally started to build some momentum amid moderating cost inflation and mounting political pressure.” Barbour ABI found that education awards bounced back to £6.1bn in 2023, a 20% uplift compared with 2022, and a 19% increase from 2019. Meanwhile, Healthcare beat 2022 by 4% and is now 160% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Forrest continued: “Overall weakness concealed pockets of buoyant sub-sector activity. Energy was a particular bright spot as investment poured into energy from waste and energy storage facilities, along with offshore wind.” Infrastructure Infrastructure spending, including government-funded projects, remained an important crutch for the industry in 2023. Contract awards fell 22% to £15.2bn but remained 47% higher than in 2019. Energy projects were a big driver. Windfarms, battery storage facilities and large waste-to-energy contracts all helped maintain awards momentum. Meanwhile, applications remained 62% higher than pre-pandemic levels and analysis of demand side approvals, still double pre-pandemic levels, suggests infrastructure will continue to perform in 2024. Looking ahead Forrest concluded: “In early 2024 there are a few reasons to be optimistic. Interest rates are likely to have peaked and inflationary pressures have eased markedly. Entering what is very likely to be an election year there is a risk there will be a hiatus in public sector investment as key decisions are postponed. The speed and resilience of the private sector recovery will be pivotal.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Latest set of results for the prior 12-month trading period show a strong improvement in profitability, whilst maintaining its core focus on consolidation and building a strong and resilient platform for the future. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced its latest set of results for the prior 12-month trading period. The results show an improvement in underlying profitability, alongside a core focus on business consolidation and building a strong platform for the future with significant investments in people, technology, working environment, H&S, processes and the operating platform. Amongst the highlights include: The results also show a fully secured and robust order book of projects worth £350m for 2024 across multiple sectors including Industrial & Logistics (I&L), Data Centres, Pharma/Life Sciences, Film/Studios, Fit out and refurbishment. Speaking about the latest set of results Glencar CEO and Co-founder Eddie McGillycuddy said: “Throughout the last 12 months, our focus has been on consolidation and building a strong platform for the future. This has included substantial investments across the company, most notably in our people, working environments, ESG, processes and our operating platform. Our commitment to doing the right kind of work has resulted in better delivery and improved profit margins. A key indicator of our success is the remarkable increase in high levels of repeat business, which now account for 65% of our turnover, compared to 40% last year. This growth is indicative of our dedication to cultivating long-term customer partnerships. To ensure sustained growth and efficiency, we have undertaken significant ongoing investment in our head office and core business support functions. We have positioned ourselves within the market to take on upcoming opportunities with the availability and mobility of the right people and teams”. Also commenting Glencar Director and Cofounder Chris Gleave also: “With an order book of £350 million already secured for 2024 we look forward to another encouraging year of growth to come. Our commitment to innovation and the integration of smart processes and technology is on the rise, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of industry trends. We are targeting 10-20% revenue growth in the next financial year. This ambitious goal is underpinned by our strategy of cultivating repeat business with our customer community while actively exploring strategic opportunities with new clients and in emerging markets. Our success is based on our culture, our people who deliver the service and way of working. Simultaneously, we direct our investment towards strengthening our internal processes and training our people ensuring their resilience to provide both our customers and supply chain partners with the best possible service”. To watch a video showcasing some of Glencar’s highlights during 2023 please click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading capital infrastructure and engineering services company, Avove, has been awarded a multi-million-pound design and build framework agreement with Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) as part of NWG’s Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8) £3.6 billion investment programme. The design and build framework, which commences in January 2024 for up to 12 years, covers the delivery of large capital investment programmes, including renewal, refurbishment and replacement for clean and wastewater networks and assets. Avove is one of 12 partners who are part of the Living Water Enterprise, the innovative vehicle developed to deliver large-scale construction programmes on behalf of NWG for AMP8. Avove’s Executive Chair, Mark Perkins, said: “We are delighted to have secured our place on Northumbrian Water Group’s framework for AMP8, which represents a significant contract win for Avove and aligns with our ambitious development plans. “During the tender process, it became clear that our strategic focus on being expert, agile and responsible aligned with the requirements of the Living Water Enterprise. Our delivery model is deeply rooted in our technical expertise, extensive experience, and commitment to service excellence across our entire business. We demonstrated that we are a collaborative provider of infrastructure services focusing on ESG, carbon reduction and innovative approaches to engineering, design and ways of working, whilst offering value for money.” With supply chain partners appointed, Avove will join NWG to form a highly integrated, collaborative delivery organisation which will play a key role in delivering NWG’s upcoming business plan commitments effectively and efficiently. This will consider the complete lifecycle of assets to ensure smarter spending and risk-based planning for the long term. Mark continued: “This is an exciting partnership, creating economic growth and opportunity in the region through a committed and thoughtful deployment of our design and construction expertise. We look forward to collaborating with Northumbrian Water Group and its partners as part of the Living Water Enterprise, driving the best value and capital solutions across the programme and delivering really positive social impacts.” Monisha Gower, Assets Director at Northumbrian Water Group, said: “The market has never been so competitive, when it comes to adding the best partners and people to our team in the run-up to AMP8. We have had to be agile and move fast, employing innovation throughout our procurement practices, and it has paid off, building our new stable of partners and creating the capacity we need for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. “Already this year, we have worked with those previously-appointed partners to start the important work of creating a strong culture, centred around collaboration, innovation, safety and wellbeing, all with a clear focus on solutions that work for customers and the environment. “We have brought on board some of the most capable and innovative partners in our sector, each of whom will bring their energy and passion with them for the journey ahead. These partnerships aren’t just going to build more resilient services for our customers, they will build reputations and careers along the way. “The level of integration that we will build with all of our partners requires a lot of work, and we are excited to get started.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, has launched a new software solution designed to address the ‘once in a generation’ challenges facing the facilities management industry. Facilities-iQ, a completely new ‘smart’ software solution has been designed to aid regulatory compliance, improve auditing, and facilitate better collaboration between building owners, managers, maintenance teams, contractors, and consultants. The new product has been launched to help users stay on top of ever-changing legislation and regulation whilst also routinely managing maintenance tasks and their financial and technical risks. FM professionals will also find the content available through Facilities-iQ will also support them in striking the right balance between compliance and business criticality. The launch has followed a rigorous development process guided by the findings from FM professionals who shared the unprecedented challenges they’d experienced from a barrage of new legislation. The Fire Safety Act 2021, The Building Safety Act 2022, and the Fire Safety Regulations (England) 2022 are just three examples of how legislation has shifted priorities and responsibilities for everyone involved in the maintenance of built assets. A major benefit of this new smart software solution for FM professionals is that it allows users to tailor SFG20 content to suit the unique needs of their facility, while still benefiting from automated update notifications whenever SFG20 content is updated to align with regulatory landscape changes. This means users can update the library of best practice and compliance information combined with their own unique knowledge of a site and its assets. This will help them accurately target resources, including external contractors, to minimise costs and improve efficiency. Facilities-iQ is the latest innovation in the 30-year journey of SFG20. Kirsty Cogan, Managing Director at SFG20, said: “This launch is very much in tune with this new era of digital facilities management. “We have come a long way from the paper-based schedules created by those pioneering HVCA members whose work was also revolutionary in its day. “Today’s industry can now harness the power of the latest software tools to transform the way they manage their valuable and complex assets. As well as helping them achieve compliance with their increasingly onerous regulatory responsibilities, Facilities-iQ is a great way for FMs to provide evidence of how their work adds value by making our built environment safer, healthier, and more comfortable.” Facilities-iQ will be available on Wednesday 31st January. For more information about Facilities-iQ and how it can manage your building maintenance compliance with its revolutionary features and benefits, please register for SFG20’s pre-launch event on Wednesday 17th January at 12 pm here: https://www.sfg20.co.uk/webinar/facilities-iqCustomers can attend a unique preview on Tuesday 16th January at 12 pm Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
