BDC News Team
Surface preparation at large

Surface preparation at large

Improving concrete preparation productivity on large scale outdoor applications Transportation infrastructure is vital to the health of the UK economy. Whether it’s commuters driving on motorways every day, or tourists travelling by air, we rely on transport networks to get us from A to B.  Consistently maintaining this critical infrastructure

Read More »
The Retrofit Academy enrolls 5,000th learner

The Retrofit Academy enrolls 5,000th learner

The Retrofit Academy has announced that it has successfully enrolled over 5,000 learners to its range of retrofit training courses.   Trained as retrofit advisors, assessors and coordinators, the newly qualified experts will help accomplish the Government’s target of reaching net zero in 2050 by leading the sustainable upgrade of

Read More »
The GPA moves forward to complete new hub in Croydon

The GPA moves forward to complete new hub in Croydon

The Government Property Agency (GPA) has achieved Practical Completion at its new Government Hub in Croydon, 2 Ruskin Square. The building will accommodate over 5,000 civil servants and enable the Home Office to migrate from three current locations in Croydon to the building in the summer 2024. Following the completion

Read More »
Hochiki Europe supporting the next generation of life safety engineers

Hochiki Europe supporting the next generation of life safety engineers

Leading manufacturer of life safety products Hochiki Europe, have today demonstrated their commitment to training for life for fire engineers and apprentices with a sizeable donation of life safety equipment to Banham Academy’s new training facility in Derby. Banham Academy are the leading specialist training provider in England delivering the

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 339 : Apr 2026

BDC News Team

Surface preparation at large

Surface preparation at large

Improving concrete preparation productivity on large scale outdoor applications Transportation infrastructure is vital to the health of the UK economy. Whether it’s commuters driving on motorways every day, or tourists travelling by air, we rely on transport networks to get us from A to B.  Consistently maintaining this critical infrastructure can be difficult — Citroen, for example, reported that work on fixing potholes across the UK cost £93.7 million in 2022. People still need to travel on a daily basis, so how do we effectively repair this infrastructure without disrupting day to day life? Here Tom Dunn, vice president of sales at surface preparation expert National Flooring Equipment, explores the role of surface preparation in large outdoor applications. Effective surface preparation plays an integral role in maintaining critical transport infrastructure such as highways, bridges, parking structures and airport runways. The surface must be in good condition to ensure the safety of people using them, as well as ensure that the floor has the durability to withstand vehicle and pedestrian traffic, as well as different weather conditions. While contractors often understand the importance of maintaining these spaces, completing the work without causing disruption to travellers can be challenging. McKinsey & Company estimates that large scale construction projects take 20 percent longer than scheduled and finish up to 80 percent over budget. From experience, these unexpected delays could be caused by a number of factors, such as weather delaying work, or a lack of preparation before arriving to site. However, sticking to the budget and client deadline is not impossible. By taking the time to plan the work effectively and choosing the right tools for the application, contractors can deliver high quality surface preparation at any scale. Preparation is key When starting any project, contractors should consider how to meet client expectations while adhering to the outlined deadline and budget. This is particularly important on large sites with regular traffic, because customers often want to limit disruption as much as possible. Taking the time to efficiently plan before arriving on site is therefore integral to surface preparation success. By visiting the site before work begins, contractors can understand the size and scope of the project, the condition of the existing floor, its current covering and the client’s specifications. For example, in large outdoor applications such as airport runways, highways or car parks, contractors must communicate with the facilities manager to clear the area of pedestrians and vehicles before commencing work to ensure safety. Some circumstances require entire site closure and in other instances contractors may be able to complete the work in stages to limit disturbance. For example, repairing the floor in multi-story parking structures one level at a time could give contractors time to complete the work efficiently without closing the entire structure. It’s important to accurately estimate the project timeline if required to work to tight deadlines, for example when working in high traffic areas. Sticking to the deadline might mean working in challenging conditions, such as in rain or at night. Plans must ensure the team can safely work through different weather conditions, darkness and high or low temperatures so that contractors allow enough time to complete the work without rushing it. Choosing a machine Once the project goals and timeline are finalised, contractors can determine what equipment or machinery they require. Larger projects usually require heavy duty ride-on scrapers that have a faster removal rate and are better suited to removing heavy goods like industrial epoxy with aggregate. Walk behinds may be more suited to applications such as weight-restricted bridge decks or around tight corners and hard-to-reach areas that a ride-on would have difficulty targeting. A combination of machines may be necessary when the site has varying levels of surface hardness, thickness, and complexity. For example, a ride-on scraper may be more efficient in removing large areas of material, while a walk-behind scraper may be more effective for precise removal during edge work. Additionally, achieving the desired surface finish may require different processes. For example, shot blasters can efficiently remove coatings, adhesives, and contaminants from vertical or horizontal surfaces. They can also create a surface texture that improves adhesion of coatings or to produce a non-slip surface. Scarifiers are useful where more aggressive treatment is necessary, such as removing thick coatings, roughing up smooth surfaces, or levelling uneven surfaces. Consider which fuels will be most appropriate during the project. In large outdoor spaces, an electricity supply for plug in machines may not be easily available, so diesel or propane powered machines might give more freedom. In any project, safety must be a priority for machinery operators and other contractors on site. Areas undergoing work should be physically cordoned off to prevent the public from entering the site. During ongoing work, contractors can also select equipment with added safety features to protect workers on site. For example, some ride-in scrapers feature light curtains to outline the movement of the machine. Choosing a ride-in machine with a positive air pressure cab can also protect the operator, reducing dust inhalation and enabling them to work in different conditions. Maximising uptime Choosing the right equipment is vital, but learning how to use it effectively is key to maintaining productivity once on site. By approaching the equipment supplier for training, contractors can understand how to set up and use equipment to increase productivity and ultimately create a safer working environment. For instance, setting up the angle and pitch of a blade can impact covering removal rates — understanding how to properly angle the blade for the covering could be the difference between quickly removing the coating and struggling to remove anything. It’s important to follow advice regarding maintenance, especially during longer projects, to minimise downtime. Counties spend millions each year on infrastructure maintenance to ensure that people can safely and efficiently travel around the country. So, when conducting repairs, laying new coverings or completing new outdoor projects, contractors should prioritise surface preparation to deliver a surface that will deliver long-lasting strength and

Read More »
Willmott Dixon Interiors to deliver DfE’s Sanctuary Buildings refurbishment

Willmott Dixon Interiors to deliver DfE’s Sanctuary Buildings refurbishment

Fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor, Willmott Dixon Interiors has been chosen to lead the refurbishment of the Grade II listed Sanctuary Buildings in London. The Department for Education (DfE) has appointed the contractor to deliver the phased CAT B fit out of 12,850m2 across floors of the property in Victoria. The project has been designed to create a more modern, sustainable and streamlined office environment, which reflects the Department’s adoption of hybrid working practices. Willmott Dixon Interiors will deliver collaborative and open plan workspaces, including hot desking facilities and staff breakout areas, as well as new meeting rooms with state-of-the-art conferencing technology. The design is characterised by its focus on diversity and inclusion, with features that directly cater for those with sensory, cognitive, physical or developmental needs. They include the availability of sensory spaces, improved lighting and acoustic properties and a muted colour palette. Existing plant facilities will be upgraded as part of DfE’s decarbonisation agenda, while the infrastructure will be put in place to support the future use of photovoltaic solar panelling. Works will be carried out in a live environment, with staff decanted to alternative floors during separate phases of the project. The project is expected to be completed by autumn 2024. Graham Shaw, managing director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “This important project will allow the DfE to facilitate hybrid working and consolidate its existing footprint within the Sanctuary Buildings. We’ll be refurbishing the building to modern standards and future proofing its plant facilities, to deliver a sustainable workplace environment that promotes wellbeing and inclusivity. It is the second significant project we have been appointed to deliver on behalf of the customer and we’ll be working in close collaboration to ensure everything is completed on time and with minimal disruption to occupants.” The contract was awarded to Willmott Dixon Interiors via the Southern Construction Framework. The project team includes Arcadis, which is delivering principal design, project management and cost consultancy services. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
Balfour Beatty awarded £42 million Little Horsted substation contract

Balfour Beatty awarded £42 million Little Horsted substation contract

Balfour Beatty recently announces that it has been awarded a £42 million contract by National Grid to construct the Little Horsted Substation Grid Supply Point in East Sussex, UK. The two year contract will see Balfour Beatty design and build a new 400 kilovolt substation as well as two new terminal towers which will support electrical conductors transmitting high-voltage electricity to the Little Horsted Substation Grid Supply Point. Once complete, the new substation will form a key part of National Grid’s ‘Little Horsted Connection Project’ which will allow local electricity distributer, UK Power Networks, to connect with the National Grid – improving the electricity supply in East Sussex.  As part of its commitment to leaving a lasting, positive legacy for the communities in which it operates, Balfour Beatty will look to engage a workforce from the local, surrounding area and will also plant approximately 500 trees during the construction programme. Ian Currie, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s Power Transmission and Distribution business said: “As one of the leading high voltage substation suppliers in the UK, we are perfectly positioned to deliver the Little Horsted Substation Grid Supply Point. “Building on our longstanding and successful relationship with National Grid, this latest contract will see us improve the power supply in East Sussex, and help provide the UK with the grid connectivity required to meet increased future demand.” Works are due to commence in early 2024 with completion expected in Autumn 2025. At peak, the project will employ a workforce of up to 120 people including a number of apprenticeship and graduate positions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
The Retrofit Academy enrolls 5,000th learner

The Retrofit Academy enrolls 5,000th learner

The Retrofit Academy has announced that it has successfully enrolled over 5,000 learners to its range of retrofit training courses.   Trained as retrofit advisors, assessors and coordinators, the newly qualified experts will help accomplish the Government’s target of reaching net zero in 2050 by leading the sustainable upgrade of 27 million homes. The qualified retrofitters have the opportunity to work with or for local authorities, housing associations and their contractors to specify and install additional measures in homes that were not originally included in the building’s design. Using Government funding such as the Social Housing Development Fund (SDHF) and Home Upgrade Grant (HUG), institutions have clear access to the financial support needed to make the necessary changes to drive sustainability forward. Founded in 2016, The Retrofit Academy is the driving force in skills and knowledge to lead the way in the high-quality decarbonisation of homes at scale by acting as a workforce development partner. This includes collaborating with social housing landlords, local authorities and building contractors tasked with meeting the Government’s net zero targets. The business offers workforce solutions, resources and training designed to aid the development and recruitment of skilled retrofit personnel, to meet the UK’s growing need. To achieve net zero by 2050, 400,000 qualified retrofitters are needed to carry out large-scale high-quality retrofitting of homes, with The Retrofit Academy aiming to train half of these by 2030. Both new entrants to industry and those currently working in the built environment can fully understand how to conduct large-scale high-quality retrofit. As demand for competent retrofitters grows at speed, this major milestone represents the impact The Retrofit Academy is making to increase capacity and develop the large workforce required to deliver on goals. David Pierpoint, Chief Executive at The Retrofit Academy explained: “Decarbonising millions of existing homes is vital if we are to fulfil the Government’s aim of achieving net zero by 2050. To ensure this goal is reached, we need to collaborate and work together to have enough qualified personnel to carry out retrofit at scale. “While we’re pleased to have passed the milestone of enrolling 5,000 professionals to be trained as skilled and qualified retrofitters, work is well underway to ensure we reach our goal of 200,000 by the end of the decade. By continuing as the driving force in retrofit knowledge and skills, we can help to achieve net zero.” For more information about The Retrofit Academy and their educational courses, please visit: https://retrofitacademy.org/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
The GPA moves forward to complete new hub in Croydon

The GPA moves forward to complete new hub in Croydon

The Government Property Agency (GPA) has achieved Practical Completion at its new Government Hub in Croydon, 2 Ruskin Square. The building will accommodate over 5,000 civil servants and enable the Home Office to migrate from three current locations in Croydon to the building in the summer 2024. Following the completion of Cat A construction, funded by Pensions Insurance Corporation (PIC) and developed by Stanhope in partnership with Schroders and Lendlease, the GPA will now take on the lease and work in partnership with Wates Smartspace, to fit out and complete the building to the Government Workplace Design Standards.  Clive Anderson, Director of Capital Projects at the GPA said:  “Today marks the end of three years of hard work by the integrated delivery team, led by the GPA in partnership with PIC, Stanhope, Schroders, Lendlease and their excellent supply chain, who have designed and built this extraordinary building to meet the Home Office needs . I am delighted with the CAT A base build completion earlier than planned ready for the GPA to complete for our Home Office customers in late summer 2024.” Home Office Permanent Secretary Matthew Rycroft said:  “This is an exciting step towards the completion of the new Home Office Croydon Hub. The site will play a major role in our work to keep the country safe, secure and prosperous. It will provide a modern space that is sustainable and which offers a collaborative and enjoyable working environment.  “I would like to thank all those who are working hard to make this innovative building a reality. I very much look forward to its completion next year.” 2 Ruskin Square represents the second purchase by PIC of a GPA hub within the past 12 months following the purchase at Manchester, First Street, in 2022. James Agar, Head of Long Income at Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), added:“Government let commercial property assets are an important, on-going area of specific focus for PIC, and we are pleased to make this long-term commitment to supporting the greening and modernisation of the UK Government’s estate. 2 Ruskin Square is a best-in-class development and joins the First Street Hub in Manchester as part of PIC’s expanding partnership with the GPA.” The building, rated BREEAM Outstanding, is highly sustainable with fully decarbonised power and all electricity procured from renewable sources. Once complete, it will offer an effective mix of flexible and hybrid work spaces to support neuro-diversity, collaboration and wellbeing, along with fully inclusive refreshment hubs, home zones and meeting rooms.The new Hub in Croydon will be the area’s second, creating a government campus with excellent sustainable transportation links.It will form part of the nine-acre Ruskin Square scheme and is located adjacent to East Croydon train station. It sits alongside One Ruskin Square, HM Revenue & Customs’ (HMRC) regional centre which opened in 2017. The Government Hubs Programme has so far supported regeneration and economic development in 17 locations throughout the UK including; Glasgow, Belfast, Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Nottingham, Cardiff, Birmingham, Peterborough and Bristol to support around 60,000 civil servants and in so doing create a smaller, better and greener public estate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
Placefirst expands senior team and appoints assets and strategy director

Placefirst expands senior team and appoints assets and strategy director

Leading UK build-to-rent provider Placefirst has appointed Anna Hwang as its new assets and strategy director, as the business moves forward with its ambitious growth plans. This is a new role and key addition to the senior leadership team for Placefirst. Anna joins with over 20 years’ experience in the property sector and will be responsible for developing and executing Placefirst’s real estate strategy, which looks to build on recent success as the business aims to reach 6,500 homes in the coming years. Anna joins Placefirst from Savills, where she was director of operational capital markets for two years, consulting with clients to drive their strategy and achieve maximum growth. Prior to this, Anna was a partner at investment and asset management specialist Addington Capital. Anna joins at a pivotal time for Placefirst which has established itself as a leader in the single-family BTR market, both through existing award-winning neighbourhoods and an exciting pipeline of UK wide projects. This pipeline includes 122 apartments at Cow Green in Halifax approved in March, 146 homes at Benwell Dene in Newcastle submitted in April, and 366 units in Wolverhampton. Placefirst are also now on site in Bolton, delivering a 167 unit neighbourhood in partnership with the council. Commenting on her appointment, Anna said: “I am delighted to be joining Placefirst at such an exciting time for the business. Our position as an industry leader in the market is shown through a number of high-profile schemes currently being built or in planning, and it is important we continue to be influential in the industry and create communities where people are proud to live and rent for the long term, in an exciting and growing residential sector. I look forward to working closely with David and the wider team to deliver this next phase of growth which will see the business expand at an impressive rate.” David Mawson, chief executive officer at Placefirst added: “We are thrilled to welcome Anna to Placefirst, bringing with her over 20 year’s experience and knowledge of the industry. With Anna’s skills in strategy and asset management, this new role encompasses the ambition that Placefirst has and will help us to progress at a national scale. Our plan is to continue on our path in delivering best-in-class BTR communities and contributing to answering the huge demand for quality private rented accommodation across the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
Purchasing a property in the top 1% of the market

You need to earn £4.7m a year to purchase a property in the top 1% of the market

The latest research by London lettings and estate agent, Benham and Reeves, has revealed what it takes to purchase a property in the top one percent of the property market, with the average buyer requiring an estimated income of £4.7m in order to do so.  Benham and Reeves analysed sold price transactions for homes sold across London so far in 2023, looking at the median sold price of the top one percent of these properties, before calculating the required income needed to buy based on placing a 15% deposit and at an average income to lending ratio of 4.5 times salary.  The research shows that so far across London, 8,119 homes have sold in 2023 with an average sold price of £525,000. However, the average sold price seen across the top one percent of the market comes in at a far heftier £4.75m.  This means the average buyer looking to purchase in the top one percent of the London property market would not only have to put down a deposit in excess of £700,000, but they would need to earn almost £900,000 a year to qualify for a mortgage at 4.5 times income.  Of course, across the nation’s most expensive market of Kensington and Chelsea, the required income is far, far higher. So far this year, the top one percent of homes sold across the borough have averaged £24.7m, meaning those looking to purchase at this very top tier of the market would require an annual income of almost £4.7m.  Camden ranks second where the top one percent of homes have sold for an average of £14.1m in 2023, requiring an income of £2.7m. Westminster completes the top three, where an average sold price of £13.75m across the top one percent of the market so far this year means buyers would need to earn £2.6m a year to qualify.  Those looking to buy in the top one percent of the market across Lambeth (£1.3m), Richmond (£1.2m), Merton (£1.1m) and Hammersmith and Fulham (£1.1m) would also need to earn in excess of £1m per year in order to do so.  Even at the other end of the table, the top one percent of homes across Barking and Dagenham have sold for an average of £825,000 since the start of the year. While it’s the only borough where the average price of a home at the very top of the market sits below the £1m mark, buyers would still need to earn almost £156,000 a year to make their move. Director of Benham and Reeves, Marc von Grundherr, commented: “The London market is notoriously expensive even for the average buyer, but for those looking to purchase a home at the very top of the ladder, the finances required are quite mind boggling to say the least.  The average price paid across the most exclusive pockets of Kensington and Chelsea is currently sitting at almost £25 million so far this year. Of course, those with the financial firepower to make such a purchase are unlikely to be phased by lending restrictions, but to put it into perspective, the average buyer would need an income of almost £4.7 million a year in order to qualify.” Data tables Data tables and sources can be viewed online, here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
Keepmoat supports Yorkshire prison to reduce reoffending rates with bricklaying academy

Keepmoat supports Yorkshire prison to reduce reoffending rates with bricklaying academy

Keepmoat and His Majesty’s Prison Service are tackling reoffending crime rates across Yorkshire with a new bricklaying academy, designed to enable prisoners to unlock employment opportunities on their release. One of the first of its kind in Britain, the academy at HMP Moorland near Doncaster will train, re-equip and provide skills to prisoners due to be released within the next six to 12 months. The two organisations have worked in partnership with the National House Building Council, (NHBC), to deliver bespoke training that enables those preparing to integrate back into society with up-to-date skills and experience in bricklaying.  According to a recent analysis from the Ministry of Justice, those leaving prison were significantly less likely to reoffend when engaging with a full time job, compared to those who did not. More than 300 prisoners are due to be released in Yorkshire over the next six months.  The bricklaying academy will not only develop their skills in construction; teaching them how to use tools and equipment, mix cement and build various types of walls, but also give prisoners the confidence and belief that they can secure a job once released. The academy will also help to address the construction skills shortage. The industry needs almost 30,000 extra construction workers by 2026 to meet growing demand in the industry – a daunting challenge after the construction workforce dropped by five per cent in 2021. Tim Beale, Chief Executive at Keepmoat, said: “Of the hundreds of prisoners due to be released in the coming six months, a good number of them have previous experience working in trades. This presented an opportunity to help develop a programme to support those who wish to create a future career for themselves and ultimately, have a second chance at life.  “This academy also forms part of our ongoing commitment to providing opportunities to people across the country, including in traditionally ‘left-behind’ communities. At Keepmoat, we are passionate about equipping the future workforce with the skills, knowledge and experience they need to build high-quality, affordable homes, as well as to help boost Britain’s regional and national  productivity.” Paul Cole, Head of Reducing Reoffending at His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service, added: “At HMP Moorland we prioritise the development of prisoners to enable them to gain meaningful employment opportunities upon their release. We’re proud to provide them with relevant skills and training, with an aim to help them find work and live law-abiding lives.” Geoff Mann, Qualifications Manager at NHBC, also commented: “The training will provide an achievable and realistic pathway into a rewarding and well-paid career in the house building industry and we’re delighted to see these prisoners and others from diverse backgrounds taking up this opportunity.  “It’s vital we attract more people into house building to help address skills shortages and the challenge of an ageing workforce. It’s hoped the academy will help to support the next generation of house builders, equipping them with the skills to build high quality new homes for the future.” To find out more about Keepmoat and its work in local communities across the UK, please visit www.keepmoat.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
Hochiki Europe supporting the next generation of life safety engineers

Hochiki Europe supporting the next generation of life safety engineers

Leading manufacturer of life safety products Hochiki Europe, have today demonstrated their commitment to training for life for fire engineers and apprentices with a sizeable donation of life safety equipment to Banham Academy’s new training facility in Derby. Banham Academy are the leading specialist training provider in England delivering the Level 3 Fire Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) apprenticeship to apprentices across the country. Graduates leave the Academy with vital skills and accreditations, enabling them to embark on fruitful careers within the fire and security industries. Apprentices are released from their employer to train at Banham Academy’s educational training centre for 15 weeks, over a three-year period, undertaking a combination of coursework and practical training. Successful completion of the course sees an apprentice awarded with qualifications and invaluable credentials for their careers ahead. Furthermore, as Banham is the first IET-approved centre, employers gain a competitive edge as graduates are officially recognised and accredited by the IET as engineering technicians. Hochiki Europe have donated a range of life safety devices to Banham Academy’s newly opened Derby training centre including addressable panels, smoke and heat detectors, sounder bases and beacons, relay units, call points and remote indicators. Kevin Faulkner, Operations Director, Banham Academy, explained “We are grateful to Hochiki Europe for their donation of life saving equipment to our second training site in Derby. Banham Academy are reliant on donations from manufacturers within our industry to allow our apprentices to continue their training on industry-leading products that are trusted and are of the highest quality. Competency of installing, commissioning, and maintaining leading security and fire systems is an important part of the learning that we provide at the Academy. This vital hands-on learning allows our graduates to leave being proficient in handling lifesaving products and systems with the utmost of knowledge and care.”  The Derby facility is Banham’s second Academy, allowing them to deliver their apprenticeships to even more young people across the UK from both their London and Derby sites.  Not only is the training centre bigger, but crucially the location will make it more accessible for students based in the North. Nathan Hudson, Sales and Marketing Director at Hochiki Europe said “We were delighted to help Banham Academy because we know how important it is to encourage and support career development as well as helping the next generation of life safety engineers across the country. Compliance is crucial in our world, we design and manufacture products which are trusted to not only save lives and property, but also reduce false alarms, but this is only possible when the installation is compliant. Our aim with this donation is to enable Banham Academy to deliver hands on, compliant training using the latest life safety technology”. To date Banham Academy Derby has 125 students currently enrolled, but by the end of the year they are expecting that number to rise to 200. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »
Peel Ports appoints Glencar to build major new £28M portside multi-user warehouse development in Liverpool

Peel Ports appoints Glencar to build major new £28M portside multi-user warehouse development in Liverpool

240,000 sq. ft warehouse to be situated at Alexandra Dock in Bootle within Peel Ports Port of Liverpool development. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it has been appointed by leading UK Port Operator Peel Ports to construct a new 240,000 sq. ft warehouse facility at Alexandra Docks within Peel Ports Port of Liverpool development located in Bootle. The new £28M facility, which constitutes the biggest single investment in warehousing at the Port of Liverpool over the last six years will be the length of up to five football pitches (400 metres) and used for the handling and storage of cargo at the port. It will be able to store a variety of commodities, both unitised and non-unitised requiring indoor storage..  The facility will also have a dedicated quay and cranes to optimise vessel discharge as part of the new development.  The scope of works includes for the design and construction of a 240,000 sq. ft warehouse referred to as Alexandra Dock Multi User Warehouse (MUW). Works include piling, foundations, push walls, a single span warehouse frame, cladding and roof lights. Externally surfacing and road construction for HGV access and crane loading. External Barriers, bollards, fencing and gates. External vehicle wash bay. Office and welfare facilities. Weighbridges and marshalling cabin along with a separate office block. Works commenced on site in April 2023 with completion in March 2024 Commenting on the project, Peter Goodman, Managing Director – Midlands & North, said: “Working with some of the UK’s leading asset managers, developers and occupiers, Glencar has developed a market leading reputation in the delivery of industrial and logistics facilities. We understand the commercial imperative to produce sustainable and high-quality structures, often at speed, creating lasting value for asset owners and are delighted to be working for leading UK Port Operator Peel Ports to construct this multi-user warehouse development. Ports serve as a critical part of the UK Supply Chain and multi-users facilities of this type contribute towards the continuation of the import and export of vital goods.  We look forward to working with the full project team progressing the project to a successful end product. Also commenting David Huck, Chief Operating Officer at Peel Ports Group, said: “We’re very pleased to be announcing plans for this major purpose-built space at the Port of Liverpool. We’ve seen a significant increase in demand for warehousing, and this huge new facility provides an opportunity for companies looking for a new base to grow their business, as well as allowing existing customers the chance to expand their operations at the port. This also represents a very important milestone for Peel Ports, enhancing both our warehousing and distribution offerings while enabling more sustainable, port-centric solutions which reduce road miles. We’ve long argued the benefits of the Port of Liverpool’s central location, and this new facility will also provide real cost and supply chain benefits. The new state-of-the-art, dynamic storage facility has been maximised for storage volumes, discharge performance and low lorry delivery times. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

Read More »