Construction company Bansco has completed the first 41,500 sq ft unit at the £45million Broadheath Networkcentre in Altrincham. Pre-let to one of the world’s largest logistics companies, Maersk, it will ultimately foster around 50 jobs. Both Network Space and Maersk committed to a highly sustainable development, targeting low or very
The UK construction industry’s capability to achieve net zero targets is potentially being hindered by a lack of clarity around sustainability policy and standards, according to a new report published today by leading consultant, Currie & Brown. The firm’s latest UK construction market outlook reportindicates that achieving the UK Government’s
Harworth Group, a leading property developer and regeneration specialist, has announced its return for the third consecutive year to The UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF). The UKREiiF event is in partnership with Pagabo and is set to take place between 21-23 May 2024, in Leeds. The event
This Recycle Week (16-20 October) First Mile is proud to celebrate the five-year anniversary of its RecycleID initiative – incorporating QR codes on 40 million recycling sacks across the UK and working together with its customers to tackle recycling contamination, boost recycling rates and reduce businesses’ carbon footprint. Each First
Painting a room may seem like a straightforward task at first glance. Yet, how many times have you heard stories of people who invested time and money in a paint job only to be disappointed with the final shade on their walls? The subtle undertones that looked perfect in a
Roof hatches have played a role in design for centuries, serving as functional access points and aesthetically pleasing features. Designers and architects face the challenge of creating hatches that not only meet stringent safety standards but also enhance the visual appeal of a building. These structures bridge the gap between
It’s a year since Guy Gittins returned to Foxtons, this time as CEO, when he assumed command of a brand that had, by its own admission, lost its mojo. A year on, Gittins has been able to take stock of the incredible success enjoyed by the firm, having reestablished its
The latest research by London lettings and estate agent, Benham and Reeves, has revealed that a fifth of all homes sold so far this year across the capital have done so for £1m or more, by far the largest proportion when compared to other major cities across England and Wales.
PATIENTS and staff on a London hospital ward are now benefitting from more efficient facilities following a completed refurbishment project by multi-disciplinary consultancy, Pick Everard. The major trauma ward at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Tooting, has undergone operational and spatial improvements, including upgraded sanitary facilities, bedhead services and infrastructure elements
Formwork, falsework, heavy duty support, ground shoring and safety & access systems specialist Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK) has provided temporary works to assist with the construction of 19-35 Baker Street. 19-35 Baker Street is a 10-storey commercial, retail, and residential mixed-use building in the West End of London, constructed
Construction company Bansco has completed the first 41,500 sq ft unit at the £45million Broadheath Networkcentre in Altrincham. Pre-let to one of the world’s largest logistics companies, Maersk, it will ultimately foster around 50 jobs. Both Network Space and Maersk committed to a highly sustainable development, targeting low or very low greenhouse gas emissions. The unit has achieved an EPC ‘A’ rating and is targeting BREEAM Excellent for the fit-out. Simon Eaton, Senior Development Manager at Network Space, said: “Following the completion of this first prominent unit at this flagship site, Maersk will become the anchor tenant. “Work continues apace on the remainder of the 11.5 acre site, which will see 206,000 sq ft of workspace across 25 units designed to appeal to local businesses and trade occupiers to last mile logistics firms. We have already pre-let more than a third of the scheme and hope to announce another significant letting shortly, which is testament to the quality, great location and sustainability credentials of the development. “Enquiries remain strong and the development will deliver job opportunities, inward investment and economic growth in south Manchester.” Well located on Atlantic Street in Altrincham, it offers easy access to the M60 and M56. Remaining units available range from 2,100 sq ft to 17,000 sq ft and the development has the capacity to create upwards of 400 new jobs and provide much needed speculative workspace in the region. In addition to targeting EPC A ratings and BREEAM Very Good, a significant reduction in embodied carbon was achieved through the construction process as the steel and concrete structures on the site are being reused and recycled. In operation initiatives include renewable energy provision through solar panels and electric vehicle charging points across the entire scheme. Chris Liptrott, Managing Director of Bansco, said: “Bansco is delighted with the successful completion of the first unit on this prestigious development. I would like to thank the client, end user and incredible supply chain for their support in achieving our first handover on the scheme”. The scheme is being supported with a £23.25 million loan from Trafford Council and with over 95% of the project budget being invested in a supply chain within 45 miles of the site, a significant number of local training and employment opportunities have been created. Jonathan Williams at Savills and Will Kenyon at B8 have been appointed as letting agents for Broadheath Networkcentre by Network Space. Will Kenyon said: “It’s great to see Maersk now taking occupation and for the rest of the scheme now nearing completion before year end. We’re in plenty of dialogue with other occupiers wanting to move to the estate, testament to the quality of units available and location.” The wider professional team includes Walker Sime, project management and quantity surveying and AEW architects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK construction industry’s capability to achieve net zero targets is potentially being hindered by a lack of clarity around sustainability policy and standards, according to a new report published today by leading consultant, Currie & Brown. The firm’s latest UK construction market outlook reportindicates that achieving the UK Government’s net zero goals will demand a major step-change in how we develop and manage our built environment, which currently accounts for 25% of all UK carbon emissions. However, it finds that the construction industry is being challenged on two fronts. Policy shifts, such as the delays to climate policies announced by the Government in September, risk reducing industry confidence in the Government’s roadmap to net zero and investment momentum in green solutions. Adam Mactavish, Global Director, Sustainability comments: “Extending targets can help relieve pressure on the construction industry and property sector. However, a question mark hangs over the necessity of these delays, in particular reducing obligations on landlords to improve energy efficiency will mean that occupiers and the nation remain more exposed to future energy price shocks. Surely it is right to reduce demand now, rather than subsidise avoidable consumption into the future.” Adding to this policy uncertainty, the industry is challenged by multiple standards for, and definitions of, net zero, which are causing confusion and inefficiencies. Indeed, Currie & Brown has identified at least a dozen different standards for zero carbon buildings developed by different national bodies. There are also many more regional and local standards, and other related standards for energy and wider sustainability. The report proposes that to move forward and effectively drive progress towards decarbonisation targets, the construction industry must work collaboratively to develop a common approach. For its part, the industry has already begun investing significant time and resources into creating solutions that align with policy goals – with progress evident in the UK net zero carbon buildings standard. Nick Gray, Chief Operating Officer, UK and Europe, concludes:“The lack of clarity on sustainability policy and standards is a significant challenge for the UK construction industry. However, it also presents an opportunity for organisations to take a leading role in developing solutions and driving progress towards decarbonisation targets. “Collaboration and coalescing around a common approach will be key to success. This in turn should give the Government confidence in its ambitions and roadmap – and ultimately, enable both the industry, and the UK as a whole, to achieve its net zero targets.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Harworth Group, a leading property developer and regeneration specialist, has announced its return for the third consecutive year to The UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF). The UKREiiF event is in partnership with Pagabo and is set to take place between 21-23 May 2024, in Leeds. The event is expected to bring together industry experts, investors, and key stakeholders from the real estate and infrastructure sectors across the United Kingdom. As one of the UK’s most prominent property developers, Harworth is renowned for its skill in transforming land and property across the country. With a diverse portfolio of projects ranging from strategic land developments to brownfield regeneration, Harworth has played a pivotal role in shaping sustainable communities for the future. UKREiiF provides a unique platform to share insights, engage in networking opportunities, and explore innovative solutions driving the real estate and infrastructure markets forward. Harworth’s participation in the event demonstrates its commitment to fostering growth, promoting sustainable development, and contributing to the transformation of the UK’s built environment. Last year their pavilion proved to be a tremendous success, providing visitors with an immersive experience into Harworth’s impressive projects and sustainable development initiatives. Attendees were able to interact with key team members, gain valuable industry knowledge, and witness first-hand how Harworth is leading the charge in shaping the future of real estate. The third year at UKREiiF allows Harworth to build on the achievements of its previous pavilion and further strengthen its industry relationships. It also offers a prime opportunity for the company to showcase new and exciting developments, discuss investment opportunities, and engage in thought-provoking discussions about the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Speaking of their involvement, Lynda Shillaw, Chief Executive of Harworth, said: “UKREiiF has become a key event in the Harworth calendar, and a great way for us to engage with a wide array of stakeholders, share ideas and demonstrate the enormous value that Harworth can deliver for communities up and down the country. We are delighted to be returning again in 2024 with an exciting line-up of events in the Harworth pavilion and we look forward to building many more relationships across the real estate industry.” Keith Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of UKREiiF, said: “We are delighted to welcome Harworth back UKREiiF for the third year running. Their pavilion last year was a highlight of the event, providing attendees with an insight into their impressive portfolio of projects and sustainable development initiatives. We look forward to seeing how they continue to shape the future of real estate and contribute to the transformation of the UK’s built environment at UKREiiF 2024.” Led by the UK’s leading property events company Built Environment Networking and supported by some of the biggest UK property and infrastructure companies, the third annual UKREiiF event will be held in Leeds on 21-23 May 2024. The forum will attract inward investment, generate economic growth, and drive a more sustainable and inclusive culture within the property and construction industries. For more information, please view the event here: https://www.ukreiif.com/event/ukreiif-2024/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This Recycle Week (16-20 October) First Mile is proud to celebrate the five-year anniversary of its RecycleID initiative – incorporating QR codes on 40 million recycling sacks across the UK and working together with its customers to tackle recycling contamination, boost recycling rates and reduce businesses’ carbon footprint. Each First Mile customer has a personalised QR code, which is printed on its recycling sacks and scanned on both drop off and collection by First Mile. Customers can also scan their QR code using First Mile’s Smart Cities App to access their account and information. This is particularly useful for businesses with complex waste management needs, such as multi-tenanted housing and shopping centres. This technology has revolutionised the recycling process, enabling customers to access real-time data about the recycling’s end location, ensuring complete transparency and accountability. It also gives customers the opportunity to access their individual recycling statistics, enabling accurate carbon data and recycling reporting. As each code is specific to a customer, the technology also means that any contamination issues – such as food waste being put in a dry mixed recycling sack – can be identified. First Mile’s app sends a picture which is then emailed to the customer, alongside advice on how to resolve the issue. Since 2018, First Mile has sent 200,000 contamination emails to customers, working with them to educate and support them in ensuring that the right items are being placed in the right sacks, fostering a sense of collective responsibility towards the environment. First Mile founder and CEO, Bruce Bratley, says: “Since its inception, First Mile has been committed to promoting environmental sustainability and the introduction of QR codes on recycling bags in 2018 marked a significant milestone in our journey towards a greener future. These QR codes have empowered our customers to gain valuable insights in their business recycling activity and they have embraced this technology wholeheartedly, with around 40 million bags being scanned and tracked to date. This achievement is a testament to our shared commitment to sustainability and our customers’ dedication to making a positive impact on the environment.” QR codes form part of wider focus for First Mile to empower businesses to improve their sustainability through data and education on their waste management, offering free waste audits, workshops and webinars, and help in setting up their recycling stations. For more information visit thefirstmile.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Painting a room may seem like a straightforward task at first glance. Yet, how many times have you heard stories of people who invested time and money in a paint job only to be disappointed with the final shade on their walls? The subtle undertones that looked perfect in a store might suddenly seem out of place in the warmth of a living room or the soft light of a bedroom. For homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite as frustrating as watching their carefully selected hue lose its charm once applied. The solution? Testing wall paint, perhaps starting with a Benjamin Moore paint sample or a similar product, before finalising that all-important colour choice. This guide will walk you through essential steps and share invaluable tips to ensure the shade you choose complements your space as you envisioned. Steps For Accurately Testing Wall Paint Embarking on a painting project can be exciting, but ensuring the colour matches your vision requires a systematic approach. With these steps in hand, navigating the world of wall paint becomes less daunting, paving the way for a room transformation that genuinely resonates with your style. Tips For More Accurate Paint Testing While the process of paint testing might seem effortless, a few strategic considerations can significantly enhance the accuracy and satisfaction of your final colour choice. These tips make the path to pinpointing the perfect paint shade clearer. Not only will you make a choice that captures your vision and stands the test of time, but you’ll also steer clear of potentially costly mistakes, making the endeavour both fulfilling and economical. Final Thoughts Painting is more than just a task; it’s a transformative experience for any space. As you journey through this vibrant world of hues and tones, remember that the walls of your home are canvases waiting for the perfect shade. Ready to bring your vision to life? The ideal paint awaits your discovery.
Roof hatches have played a role in design for centuries, serving as functional access points and aesthetically pleasing features. Designers and architects face the challenge of creating hatches that not only meet stringent safety standards but also enhance the visual appeal of a building. These structures bridge the gap between practicality and aesthetic harmony, making them an integral part of design. The Importance of Safety in Roof Hatch Design Prioritising Safety Regulations and Standards Global building regulations place emphasis on ensuring the safety of occupants. These guidelines ensure that roof hatches serve their purpose and adhere to the highest safety standards. Critical Elements for Ensuring Safety in Modern Roof Hatch Design A designed roof hatch incorporates the following features; 1. Non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents 2. Robust locking mechanisms for security 3. Designs that provide accessibility accommodating both ladders and stairs 4. Effective weather resistance to ensure durability and comfort The Consequence of Disregarding Safety Neglecting safety measures can have repercussions that extend beyond implications. It’s important to understand that giving priority to safety is an investment in our well-being. Role of Roof Hatches During Emergency Situations When unexpected damages or severe weather conditions occur, roof hatches are access points for emergency roof repairs. They enable direct entry to the rooftop, allowing professionals to address and resolve any issues promptly. In addition to enhancing the building’s appearance and functionality, roof hatches are vital in preserving the structure’s integrity during emergencies. The Importance of Design in Roof Hatch Functionality The Changing Face of Suburban Buildings In today’s trends, aesthetics play a role even in functional elements like roof hatches. The challenge lies in integrating them into the design of the building. Enhancing Property Value Through Aesthetics An appealing roof hatch can significantly increase the value of a property. It serves as an indication of the attention given to both the design and functionality aspects of the property. Real-life Examples Across parts of the world, from city apartments to houses, roof hatches are now regarded as design expressions. They go beyond their function and reflect the evolving aesthetic sensibilities within modern architecture. Finding the Right Balance: Combining Safety and Beauty Choice of Materials Opting for materials like tempered glass, polished metals, and treated wood provides a blend of safety and elegance. These options demonstrate the art of merging form and function seamlessly. Innovative Design Solutions Integrating features like flush-fitted hatches with rooftop elements like gardens or terraces showcase how roof hatch designs have evolved. Customisation and Personal Touch Thanks to advancements in design technology, there is a growing trend towards tailor-made roof hatches. These personalised solutions ensure that aesthetics and safety are beautifully intertwined. Factors to Consider for Homeowners and Builders Budget Considerations Creating a roof hatch design that perfectly balances safety and aesthetics may require an investment. However, it’s essential to understand this expenditure as an investment in the long-term value of your property and the well-being of its occupants. Maintenance and Durability Investing in a high-quality roof hatch also means considering its long-term maintenance requirements and durability. By maintaining your hatch, it can continue to serve its purpose for years while maintaining its safety features and visual appeal. Seeking Guidance It is always wise to seek expert advice or consult with a good roofing company when contemplating the installation of a roof hatch. Experienced architects and builders can provide perspectives on finding the equilibrium between design and safety. Conclusion To sum up, a roof hatch encompasses more than its purpose; it mirrors the underlying design principles of a building. As design sensibilities continue to evolve, the ongoing challenge persists: how to seamlessly integrate safety and aesthetics. Striking this balance requires industry experts’ deliberation and guidance but is undoubtedly within reach.
It’s a year since Guy Gittins returned to Foxtons, this time as CEO, when he assumed command of a brand that had, by its own admission, lost its mojo. A year on, Gittins has been able to take stock of the incredible success enjoyed by the firm, having reestablished its position as London’s #1 estate agency brand, both in terms of market share and growth of new instructions*. First established in Notting Hill back in 1981, Foxtons quickly gained a reputation for achieving the very best deal for both its sellers and landlords alike. Instantly recognisable by its fleet of branded Minis, Foxtons became synonymous with the London property market and the expertise required when negotiating both the sales and lettings sectors. Changes in the company’s culture in the 2010’s, a culture that had been vital in shaping Foxtons during its early years, meant that the approach needed to maintain this position yielded to the pressure of public potshots that often come from those in awe of such achievements. What followed was a suffocation of the Foxtons ethos, transforming the company into a corporate vehicle that struggled to embrace the character, energy and aspiration of the early years. Until last year, that is, when Foxtons alumni Guy Gittins returned to take control as company CEO. It was the legendary character and energy at Foxtons that had first attracted Guy Gittins to the business 20 years ago this October. Walking into their Chiswick Park HQ it was immediately clear to him that the training and people would provide him with the perfect platform and foundation for future success. Over the five years that Guy Gittins first worked at Foxtons he quickly progressed from Sales Negotiator to top sales performer and Sales Manager of the largest Foxtons office in South Kensington. When it was time for a new challenge, Guy moved on to a global Sales Director role for an international property entrepreneur before returning to the UK to represent Savills in the launch and sale of the world renowned One Hyde Park in Knightsbridge. His success in both roles, and his firm foundation from Foxtons brought him to London estate agency Chestertons, where, as CEO, he led the business from loss making to record revenue and profits in just four years. Finally, having utilised his early Foxtons experiences to propel him forward in his career, it was time to come home to the opportunity to re-energise the business that had taught him so much. On his first day as Foxtons CEO, Guy Gittins made a company wide address via video link to introduce himself and his plans Foxtons CEO, Guy Gittins, commented: “My first company wide video address on my second ‘first day’ at Foxtons was clear, we are the original property industry disruptors and we’ve always done things differently to the rest of the marketplace and to the benefit of our clients. This is something to be embraced, but the reality was that our focus and performance had slipped over the previous years. It was time to get back to the Foxtons that I knew and loved, a company based on the fundamentals of high volume sales, high energy culture and a clear focus on growing market share, growing acquisitions, creating efficiencies in every part of the process and striving to be the very best. I wanted to revitalise the visibility and vigour of the brand and the pride associated with being a Foxtons estate agent. Reinstating certain aspects of the previous culture was a vital part of this. More noise, more energy, more Foxtons Minis, more events, more trips, more incentives, more fun. But this change in culture was as much about enabling as it was about encouraging competition and reward. This meant providing greater budgets, more staff members, better technology and, perhaps most importantly, the ability for us to utilise the vast amount of market data we have gathered in a realistic and effective way. I wanted all of our staff to know from the get-go that it’s not ok to be average and we would once again celebrate and embrace the winning culture, providing those who perform at the highest levels the very best opportunities to progress their career. In doing so, this would naturally ensure that whether you are looking to rent or sell a property, Foxtons would not only provide you with the very best service, but also achieve the very best return.” A year on from Guy’s return and his forensic review of the Foxtons business, what’s changed? On his 20th anniversary within the property sector and following his first year back at Foxtons, Gittins once again addressed Foxtons via video link. He continues.. “In the last year, we’ve invested heavily in our under utilised assets – people, technology and brand. Our technology team has driven innovation to new heights and far beyond that of our competitors. In just 12 months, we’ve developed the only true digital, end to end lettings platform in the industry. We’ve used our in-house technology to optimise our day to day business decisions and our interactive data dashboard lets us analyse every inch of the business in real time to ensure performance is where it needs to be. This truly data-led approach allows us to anticipate the market and prepare for the challenges of tomorrow, today. Our new Sloane Square office has been the first to benefit from a digital makeover, with technology helping to reposition what clients should expect from an estate agent’s physical presence on the high street. We’ve increased our head count considerably and implemented a 10 times increase in the level of face to face training we provide our staff across the business, improving performance at every stage. We introduced the new electric Foxtons Mini at our Christmas party, as well as the new car handover ceremonies and an increase in the number of trips for top performers. Visibility of the Foxtons brand is back and we’ve seen lettings revenue records set on a
The latest research by London lettings and estate agent, Benham and Reeves, has revealed that a fifth of all homes sold so far this year across the capital have done so for £1m or more, by far the largest proportion when compared to other major cities across England and Wales. Benham and Reeves analysed sold price data from the Land Registry for property sales to have completed so far this year (Jan to Aug 2023 – latest available) across 12 major cities. Benham and Reeves then looked at what proportion of total sales sold for £1m or more, the average sold price and the total value of homes sold. The London market continues to lag behind the rest of the nation when it comes to the annual rate of house price growth, down -0.8% in the last year, one of just three regions to have seen a year on year decline. However, when it comes to homes sold at £1m or more, London remains the dominant force within the market. The research by Benham and Reeves shows that so far this year, 3,716 properties have sold for £1m or more across London, equating to 21.1% of total sales completed across the capital. Bristol ranks as the city with the second highest number of £1m property transactions, although the 86 homes sold for £1m or more equate to just 1.9% of total homes sold. Sheffield (0.9%), Newcastle (0.6%) and Leeds (0.6%) also rank within the top five, albeit £1m property sales account for less than 1% of all homes sold in 2023. London also sits top in terms of both the median sold price and total value of £1m property sales. Homes selling above the £1m threshold have averaged a sold price of £1.45m versus £565,000 across the rest of the London market. In total, London’s £1m homes have sold for a combined value of £312.2m, with Bristol again ranking second albeit someway off the pace set by London with a total value of £156.1m. Director of Benham and Reeves, Marc von Grundherr, commented: “It’s fair to say that the London market as a whole has been underperforming for some time and we simply haven’t seen the same high rates of house price growth envelope the capital when compared to the rest of the nation. However, there’s no doubt it remains the driving force when it comes to homes sold for £1m or more and in this respect, no other major city comes close. We’ve seen strong levels of demand so far this year across the upper tiers of the London market, buoyed by the return of foreign homebuyers, in particular. So while London may not be seeing any spectacular growth at a top line level, it is very much a case of quality of quantity in the current market.” Data tables Data tables and sources can be viewed online, here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
PATIENTS and staff on a London hospital ward are now benefitting from more efficient facilities following a completed refurbishment project by multi-disciplinary consultancy, Pick Everard. The major trauma ward at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Tooting, has undergone operational and spatial improvements, including upgraded sanitary facilities, bedhead services and infrastructure elements such as power and ventilation. Pick Everard completed full RIBA Stage 1-6 delivery covering architecture, structural engineering, design management, health and safety services (CDM) and clerk of works. John Clarke, director at Pick Everard, said: “While the ward itself was isolated and completely shut down during the works, this project took place within a live hospital site requiring a high level of competence and care. “I believe much of the success can be put down to the collaborative approach between our in-house departments, which provided an effective, coordinated solution for the client. We were able to realise their design aspirations within the practical constraints of an existing building, project budget and demanding programme.” St George’s is one of the UK’s leading teaching hospitals and is the largest provider of acute healthcare services in southwest London. It has one of the busiest emergency departments in the country and operates several major trauma wards, which were constructed in the 1980s. The major trauma ward’s new design altered the existing arrangement to reduce overcrowding and bring it in line with current regulations. There are now four multi-bed bays containing 18 beds and four single rooms with ensuites, and two assisted showers. Clinical compliance spaces including a new treatment room and dirty/clean utility rooms were added, and the staff room and kitchen space were also improved with lockers for private storage. A new air handling unit (AHU) and UPS / IPS plant also needed to be installed on the ward’s roof. This demanded careful coordination, as the existing roof contained a helipad and all associated services within a helipad cabin. To mitigate any conflicts with the operation of the helipad, the Pick Everard team conducted various design option studies and risk analyses on potential plant locations. This involved extensive consultations with the building’s incumbent specialist suppliers and contractors to minimise disruption and mitigate risks during the construction phase. “While we have extensive experience in the healthcare sector, this was our first project with this particular NHS Trust,” John added. “It was attained through the £1.6bn NHS Shared Business Services Framework that Pick Everard was recently re-appointed to. Originally, we were brought in for a feasibility study, but this became a full Stage 1-6 delivery – a great achievement for the team and reflective of our understanding and reputation in this sector.” Due to the high number of stakeholders and end users within the project, consultation and engagement was a priority throughout. Pick Everard arranged regular meetings and workshops to ensure the end results would be compliant with the health building notes (HBN) and health technical memoranda (HTM) criteria, with all design proposals scrutinised by the client’s technical advisers. A representative of the trust stated, said: “From the outset, the team at Pick Everard understood fully the needs of this refurbishment. They worked hard to understand the best way to deliver this effectively and within the difficult constraints of a live site, with deadlines and budgets considered. The result has been a fantastic overhaul of the Holdsworth ward that is now back up and running, and already we can see the difference in day-to-day operations, benefitting not only our patients but our staff also.” For more information on Pick Everard and its services, visit: www.pickeverard.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Formwork, falsework, heavy duty support, ground shoring and safety & access systems specialist Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK) has provided temporary works to assist with the construction of 19-35 Baker Street. 19-35 Baker Street is a 10-storey commercial, retail, and residential mixed-use building in the West End of London, constructed by Laing O’Rourke on behalf of Derwent London. The project comprises 298,000 square foot of high-specification office space and 51 residential units, including an allocation for affordable housing. At the ground-floor level, the retail units fronting Baker Street, George Street and Gloucester Place will be linked by a central courtyard spanning the length of the site. Altrad RMDK supplied 19 Tubeshor props of 610/1060 diameter – with the longest prop spanning 39m – to support the single-level basement excavation, from which 98% of waste from the overall project has been diverted from landfill and recycled and repurposed during construction. All support equipment supplied for the project was CE-marked, which is a unique proposition from Altrad RMDK. It is the only UK supplier to offer equipment with full European compliance across its ground shoring fleet, which conforms with relevant EU design codes, material quality and manufacture under the controls of EN1090 legislation. The hybrid hydraulic ground shoring props are fitted with mechanical screw collars, which is another unique feature exclusive to Altrad RMDK. This innovation isolates the integral hydraulic cylinders after the prop pre-loading stage, preventing the chance of prop release resulting from hydraulic failure while providing a more robust and stiffer propping arrangement with higher deflection control. The Tubeshor 1060 props were also fitted with pre-camber shims placed between the bolted ring-flange joints. These boost the axial capacity of the props by reducing the amount of self-weight sag. Further prop performance benefits were afforded by inclusion of the unique Tubeshor Spherical Bearer end detail, which eliminates load eccentricity in both axes whilst providing 5° full circle rotation for on-site flexibility. In addition to props withstanding earth and surcharge pressures, there are daily fluctuations in prop forces due to thermal conditions, including daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations combined with the effects of solar gain; whereby props exposed to direct sunlight will attract more load than those providing support in shaded areas – all of which must be considered when calculating prop loads. Due to the sensitive nature of the city-centre site, wireless monitoring was selected which enables the site team and Altrad RMDK engineers to monitor prop loads 24/7. Alerts for prop loads outside of defined, scheme-specific values can be sent to customer and Altrad RMDK engineers, enabling any appropriate mitigation measures to be quickly identified thus ensuring the security of the excavation perimeter. Ajay Nagah, Commercial Manager – Ground Shoring, at Altrad RMDK, explains: “This project highlighted our ability to offer optimum wall support for basement construction – producing lean solutions whilst not compromising on quality or performance. Garrett Durkin, Laing O’Rourke Structures & Facade Project Leader, on the Baker Street project added: “This project posed engineering challenges that required a bespoke approach in order to meet the stringent allowable movements, of which Altrad RMDK were professional in their approach from concept right through to install and removal. “As the project challenges changed the Altrad RMDK team were always present and willing to support the Laing O’Rourke project delivery team with engineered solutions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals