Willmott Dixon Interiors is to deliver the £4.4 million refurbishment of two historic buildings in Sutton, South London, as part of exciting plans to bring the town’s high street back to life. The leading fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor will transform 137-145 High Street in Sutton town centre, on behalf
Rapidly-expanding Merseyside M&E contractor Mech NW has selected Vanaways as its vehicle provider for its ongoing growth journey. The Wirral-based mechanical and electrical company is expecting to double last year’s £1.5m turnover this year and in the meantime has converted its fleet of vehicles to 100 per cent electric. The
The Supply Chain Sustainability School, a leading online platform dedicated to promoting sustainable practices within supply chains, is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Spencer to its Board of Directors. Andrew Spencer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the School’s mission of advancing sustainability within the built
The latest research by Zero Deposit, the tenancy deposit alternative, has revealed that while home owners are upping sticks and moving more often, the time spent in rental properties by PRS tenants has increased by 12% over the last decade, highlighting the important role landlords play in today’s property market.
Maidstone-based Golding Homes (Golding) has finalised the transfer of 180 affordable homes to NewArch Homes, a registered provider of social housing owned by a fund managed by Octopus Real Estate, a leading UK specialist real estate investor and lender. Located in Bexley, Dartford, Sevenoaks, and Wealden, the mix of 111
Building Better, the National Housing Federation-supported group of housing associations and councils working to increase the use of modern methods of construction (MMC), has added a new manufacturer to its MMC Category 1 framework. Building Better and Procurement for Housing (PfH) have signed up ZED PODS to their volumetric framework,
The approved employment scheme will open up half a kilometre of waterfront to the public for the first time in the site’s history; transforming the current Chatham Docks Industrial Estate into a purpose-built employment campus, which will triple the number of jobs on site and offer new opportunities for economic growth.
High specification formwork, from Doka, along with its innovative hydraulic climbing system, ensured the safe, speedy delivery of a specialist concrete core for a standout new office building in central London. The City of London’s urban planners were given the green light to Edenica, a 12-floor, 60-metre-high building for developer
Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Big Green Coach continues to lead the way in providing carbon-neutral transportation services nationwide. Already established as the UK’s largest events travel company, Big Green Coach continues to grow its Transport Solutions business within the BDC sector, prioritising sustainability and efficiency in its operations.
Digital Construction Week is an annual event focusing on the future of the built environment – this year taking place from 5th to 6th of June. To mark the occasion, Smart Construction’s Deputy General Manager, Richard Clement, takes a deep dive into five of the biggest changes he predicts for
Willmott Dixon Interiors is to deliver the £4.4 million refurbishment of two historic buildings in Sutton, South London, as part of exciting plans to bring the town’s high street back to life. The leading fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor will transform 137-145 High Street in Sutton town centre, on behalf of London Borough of Sutton. Willmott Dixon Interiors will protect the historic features of both four-storey buildings, while creating 20,000 sq ft of modern retail and business space. Upper floors will provide large, open plan floor spaces, while the basement and ground floor will be refurbished as separate commercial units. New M&E arrangements will also be installed. Formerly occupied by Topshop and Vision Express, the heritage buildings form part of a broader strategy to revitalise Sutton town centre, which is being led by London Borough of Sutton. The project was tendered via Procurement Hub and is part-funded by the government’s Future High Streets Fund, through which the Council secured £11.35 million to transform the town centre. Willmott Dixon Interiors has committed to investing in the local community as part of its delivery of the project. It is partnering with The South London Careers Hub and Construction Industry Training Board to promote career opportunities within the sector, with specific initiatives made available to students, women and care leavers. Simon Wilson, director at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “We are looking forward to supporting Sutton Council’s efforts to breathe new life into the high street. Our team has vast experience in transforming underused buildings for the benefit of local people and economies. This important refurbishment will not only deliver commercial spaces fit for the 21st century but has the potential to attract new occupiers that will encourage wider town centre regeneration too.” Carolyn Dwyer, strategic director for development, growth and regeneration at the London Borough of Sutton, said: “We’re excited about the progress being made to renovate this much-loved site. By protecting the buildings’ historic features and creating a space for new businesses, this will help to guarantee a bright future for our town centre and bring new exciting opportunities for everyone living in our borough.” Courtney Cole, client relationship manager at Procurement Hub, said: “The London Borough of Sutton has demonstrated its commendable efforts in revitalising their local high street by refurbishing the former TopShop and Vision Express stores, which emphasises their commitment to enhancing the vibrancy of the community, creating a dynamic high street that will attract increased footfall. The collaboration between Procurement Hub and Willmott Dixon Interiors has been instrumental in creating a harmonious dynamic from a procurement perspective, which will facilitate the smooth execution of the project.” Willmott Dixon Interiors has gained a reputation for the successful delivery of multi million pound town centre refurbishment projects. The contractor worked with Enfield Council to complete the CAT B fit out of flexible office and meeting space at Edmonton Library, and handed over a new children and family hub at Thomas Hardy House in Enfield, which opened last year. It has also recently completed the £18.8 million redevelopment of two vacant retail warehouse assets in Oxford to deliver Inventa, the first commercial science scheme in the city’s central science district. For more information on the regeneration of Sutton High Street, please visit: https://suttontowncentre.sutton.gov.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rapidly-expanding Merseyside M&E contractor Mech NW has selected Vanaways as its vehicle provider for its ongoing growth journey. The Wirral-based mechanical and electrical company is expecting to double last year’s £1.5m turnover this year and in the meantime has converted its fleet of vehicles to 100 per cent electric. The latest additions are a brand new Maxus T90 EV pickup truck and two Renault Kangoo L1 E-Tech vans. Each has been supplied on a new lease hire arrangement which managing director Chris Hannon expects to save expenditure on both acquisition and running costs of the vehicles. The savings follow advice from Hannah Pearson, the regional business development manager for Vanaways in the North West. “We were spending £400 a week on diesel,” said Mr Hannon, “and now it’s about £150 per week for charging, at around £7 or £8 per charge at home overnight. Over the course of the year that’s a significant saving, and the install costs for the chargers are paid off quite quickly. “Combined with the savings on the costs of acquiring the vehicles – the truck alone was not far off half the price of what a diesel one would be – we’re really grateful to Hannah for the advice. “These savings are going to help us reinvest in the growth of the business over the next few years, starting with the introduction of our new electrical division.” Based in Pioneer House in the Wirral, Mech NW employs 25 staff and was set up by Mr Hannon four years ago. The company provides renewables, mechanical, plumbing and electrical services to numerous nationwide construction contractors and some tier 1 M&E contractors, mainly on installations in new multi-occupancy properties like care homes, student accommodation, hotels and apartment blocks. “There’s a lot happening in the North West and we’re looking forward to meeting the demand for our services,” said Mr Hannon. “Having a good van supplier will be a great feature of our journey going forward, and the electrification of the fleet is important given the attention our clients pay to the carbon footprint of their operations and their supply chain.” Vanaways is itself undergoing spectacular current growth, having moved into new offices in Ham Green near the M5 at Bristol early last year. Company turnover has risen dramatically in 2023, while staff numbers have risen to 72 and the business is on track to deliver sales on more than 6,000 vehicles in 2024. Working with a vast network of suppliers across the UK, the company offers free delivery with a digitalised sales process which enables quick fulfilment of the customer’s fleet needs. Ms Pearson said: “It’s great to be able to bring our full range of deals and suppliers to companies like Mech NW so we can genuinely offer them the solution that works best for them. “There are some amazing fleet opportunities out there for companies which are able to think outside the box, and we enjoy helping open up those avenues. “Whether it’s the cost benefits of electric vehicles over diesel, or various finance packages which we can bring to the table, we get a real buzz out of partnering with customers who are looking to grow. “Like any growing trades business, Chris and the team at Mech NW rely heavily on their vehicles so it’s a pleasure to be here for them on that journey.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Supply Chain Sustainability School, a leading online platform dedicated to promoting sustainable practices within supply chains, is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Spencer to its Board of Directors. Andrew Spencer brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the School’s mission of advancing sustainability within the built environment through collaboration and knowledge sharing. As the Group Supply Chain & Procurement Director at Galliford Try, a prominent UK construction group and key Partner of the School, Spencer operates at the forefront of the industry, overseeing procurement and supply chain professionals across the organisation and shaping strategic approaches to supply chain management. With over 25 years of experience and a distinguished Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (FCIPS), Spencer has led high-profile projects and collaborations with major UK clients, including HS2, National Highways, Crossrail, and National Grid, among others. His leadership has been recognised through multiple awards for his innovative approach to supply chain management. Reflecting on his appointment, Andrew commented, “I am honoured to join the Board of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. Its dedication to promoting sustainable practices resonates strongly with my professional values and how we operate within Galliford Try. I’m eager to apply my experience and network to further the School’s mission of driving positive change within the industry.” The Supply Chain Sustainability School empowers professionals across the built environment sector with the knowledge and tools necessary to build resilient and environmentally responsible supply chains. Andrew Spencer’s appointment to the Board of Directors underscores the School’s dedication to harnessing industry expertise to advance sustainability practices. “We are delighted to welcome Andrew to our Board of Directors.” said Hilary Hurrey, Head of the Supply Chain Sustainability School “His extensive experience and leadership in procurement and supply chain management will be invaluable as we continue to drive forward our mission of promoting sustainability and collaboration within the built environment.” For more information about the Supply Chain Sustainability School, explore the website here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The latest research by Zero Deposit, the tenancy deposit alternative, has revealed that while home owners are upping sticks and moving more often, the time spent in rental properties by PRS tenants has increased by 12% over the last decade, highlighting the important role landlords play in today’s property market. Zero Deposit analysed the latest figures from Gov UK English Housing Survey looking at the number of years spent in a property for each segment of the market and how these lifestyle trends have changed over the years. The analysis shows that when it comes to home owners, we’re moving more, spending an average of 9.2 years in a property (mortgage buyers). This is the second lowest amount of time spent in the last 10 years with the exception of the 2020-21 pandemic year (8.7) and some way below the average of 9.9 years seen over the last decade. What’s more, it marks a 13.9% reduction versus a decade ago, with homeowners remaining in their properties for 1.5 fewer years today versus 2012-13. However, when it comes to tenants in the private rental sector the opposite trend has emerged over the last 10 years. The average PRS tenant currently spends 4.3 years in their rental home. While this has reduced slightly on an annual basis, down from 4.4 years, it sits 12.1% higher than a decade ago when tenants rented for an average of 3.8 years. It also sits higher than the average of 4.1 years seen over the last decade as a whole, highlighting the importance of the private rental sector when it comes to providing long-term accommodation for those who haven’t made the transition to home ownership. Sam Reynolds, CEO of Zero Deposit commented: “Over the last ten years, tenants have grown increasingly reliant on the private rental sector due to the high cost of home ownership and we’ve also seen renting as a lifestyle choice result in tenants staying put for longer. It’s also fair to say that, with renting itself becoming more expensive, many tenants would rather stay put once they’ve secured a rental property, rather than foot the costs of moving while their original deposit is still being held by their previous letting agent. While the build to rent sector has looked to provide a solution to the requirement for longer term tenancies, it’s PRS landlords who are vital to the sector and are still shouldering the majority of the weight when it comes to the provision of these properties. With the Renters Reform Bill also set to provide further security to tenants with respect to tenancy lengths and eviction powers, it’s likely that the time spent in the same rental property will continue to increase over the coming years. This highlights just how vitally important landlords are when it comes to the rental market echo system and why we must encourage investment into the sector, not deter it. Data tables and sources Data tables and sources can be viewed online, here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Maidstone-based Golding Homes (Golding) has finalised the transfer of 180 affordable homes to NewArch Homes, a registered provider of social housing owned by a fund managed by Octopus Real Estate, a leading UK specialist real estate investor and lender. Located in Bexley, Dartford, Sevenoaks, and Wealden, the mix of 111 affordable rent, 68 shared ownership and 1 leasehold houses and flats are all between 2 and 6 years old. Housing management services will now be delivered by Southern Housing. Today’s news is the first major deployment by the Octopus Affordable Housing Strategy, which aims to accelerate the much-needed delivery of quality, affordable homes in the UK. By both funding the construction of new housing and making strategic acquisitions of high-quality existing stock, the strategy works to increase the total capital available for the supply of affordable housing. With the capital raised through its first close in December now committed and a significant element now fully invested, the strategy has demonstrated its ability to deploy funds efficiently and quickly, into high-quality homes with reputable partners, to help address a key societal challenge. Peter Merchant, Investment Director at Octopus Real Estate, said: “We’re delighted to have acquired these modern, high-quality affordable homes. At Octopus Real Estate our aim is to work with housing providers and local authorities to accelerate the delivery of affordable homes, and we’re pleased this transfer will allow Golding Homes to reinvest funds to further increase the supply of affordable housing in the local community.” Tom Casey, Director of Development and Strategic Asset Management at Golding Homes said: “The sale and transfer of these homes located outside of our core operational area, has been a strategic objective. This transfer enables us to strengthen our commitment to customers in and around the Borough of Maidstone where we’re based and deliver on our ambition to be visible, local and listening.” A key example of this strong local commitment can be seen in recent weeks, with Golding starting work on a major investment project in Shepway, Maidstone. This will see the development of 236 new, energy-efficient, affordable homes and a modern shopping area with improved landscaping and community facilities. Golding has also launched a £60million investment programme for improvements to existing homes, to be delivered over the next three years.Tom Casey continued: “As a local landlord, it’s important customers remain at the heart of all we do. We’re pleased to have worked collaboratively with NewArch Homes and their managing partner Southern Housing, to ensure this transition is smooth, and customers continue to receive a high-quality service.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Building Better, the National Housing Federation-supported group of housing associations and councils working to increase the use of modern methods of construction (MMC), has added a new manufacturer to its MMC Category 1 framework. Building Better and Procurement for Housing (PfH) have signed up ZED PODS to their volumetric framework, which is worth up to £400m over four years. Social housing organisations can procure pre-manufactured 3D construction systems for both houses and apartments from ZED PODS through the deal. ZEDPODS have been appointed to the framework on a direct award basis so housing associations and local authorities won’t need to go through any additional tender process to procure from them. Streamlining MMC contracting in this way saves around £15,000 in procurement costs for each housing organisation. The framework also enables very early engagement with ZED PODS, in a compliant way. When social housing organisations meet with manufacturers right at the start of a project and tap into their design experience to create plans that are right for all parties, this commonly leads to more successful schemes. Founded in 2016, ZED PODS design and build zero-operational-carbon social housing and specialise in delivering turnkey housing solutions using volumetric MMC. ZED PODS’ build system can be used on traditional sites and also constrained brownfield locations such as derelict garage sites, carparks, and flood zones. ZED PODS have delivered award-winning housing schemes for both local authorities and housing associations. They are presently working with 28 public sector organisations to plan and design MMC schemes, and they are currently onsite building zero-operational-carbon social homes in Sheffield, Ashford, Bristol, and across Wales and Devon. All MMC homes procured under the Building Better framework take a fabric-first approach (prioritising insulation ahead of add-ons like solar panels), they meet nationally described space standards (NDSS) and have the option to be wheelchair accessible. They are certified by the Buildoffsite Property Assurance Scheme (BOPAS) and assessed and accepted by building warranty provider ICW Insurance Services. Tony Woods, Technical Manager for Construction & Sustainability at Procurement for Housing (PfH) said: “The quality of ZED PODS’ homes really set them apart in the tender process, as well as their management team and financial position. They manufacture high performance, low carbon houses and flats that exceed the proposed Future Home Standards and the Welsh Development Quality Requirements 2021. But it was also the way they involve residents that impressed us. ZED PODS take a proactive approach to engaging early with local communities ahead of construction on site. Tom Northway, Chairman of ZED PODS, said: “We are delighted to have been selected for the Building Better framework and look forward to working with the team and its members to deliver our net zero carbon housing solutions.” In addition to the MMC Category 1 framework, Building Better and PfH also run a dynamic purchasing system (DPS) for MMC Category 2 construction systems. Through this DPS, social housing organisations can procure 2D panelised systems, assembled on-site, from over 20 pre-approved manufacturers. For further information about Building Better’s MMC Category 1 framework visit: https://buildingbetter.org.uk/procurement-route/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The approved employment scheme will open up half a kilometre of waterfront to the public for the first time in the site’s history; transforming the current Chatham Docks Industrial Estate into a purpose-built employment campus, which will triple the number of jobs on site and offer new opportunities for economic growth. Medway Council’s Planning Committee have approved plans this week to transform an 18acre Industrial Estate in Gillingham, Medway into a high-spec employment and enterprise campus called Basin3. The approved plans were submitted by waterside regeneration specialists Peel Waters who are the landowners of the site. Peel’s approved plans will transform the existing brownfield land into circa 31,000m² of adaptable workspace, bringing with it the opportunity to create hundreds of new jobs and apprenticeships in Medway. The high-quality, sustainable and versatile waterfront space that will be delivered as part of the Basin3 campus will actively promote job creation by catering to businesses aligned with the council’s target growth sectors. These sectors encompass creative, manufacturing and technology; life sciences; IT and digital along with dedicated spaces and workshops for start-ups and smaller independent businesses. Located next to Medway’s university cluster, the new Basin3 employment and enterprise campus will act as a catalyst for innovation and collaboration; helping retain talent and knowledge in Medway, by creating new opportunities for graduates. Future-proofing the site against climate change has also been at the forefront of the approved plans. Peel will raise the land to improve flood resilience and all the new buildings will utilise green technology and be at the cutting edge of energy efficiency. Enhanced connectivity and improved sustainable transport options have also been key to Peel’s vision for Basin3. The approved development will see the creation of a new waterside footpath and cycle way stretching over half a kilometre, connecting existing residential communities as well as safely opening up part of the Medway waterfront to the public for the first time in its history. The approved Basin3 development aligned with all the relevant policies in Medway’s statutory development plan and the National Planning Policy Framework and received no objections from the statutory consultees. James Whittaker, Managing Director, Peel Waters said: “We are very pleased planning has been approved for Basin3. Our vision for Basin3 will create a dynamic, employment enterprise destination that integrates with existing communities whilst attracting new employers and business to the area, offering much needed, high-quality, new employment spaces for already established Medway businesses, and bolstering Medway’s economic growth. “Receiving outline planning permission for Basin3 will help attract significant inward investment into Medway. We look forward to helping build an exciting new future and legacy for this employment site in Medway.” Peel Waters has a strong track record of waterside regeneration across the UK, with sites in Liverpool, Wirral, Greater Manchester and Glasgow. Their Chatham Waters development which neighbours the Basin3 site is their largest regeneration project in the south. To date, Peel has invested over £125million into their Chatham Waters scheme, delivered significant infrastructure improvements including over £7million of highway improvements, flood defence and land remediation. They have created 750 new jobs, built 237 affordable homes, another 391 homes for rent and sale, a large ASDA Superstore, a Marston’s family pub and restaurant, retail units, The Waterfront University Technical College offering on-site stem-focussed education specialising in construction and engineering; and an elderly/care development is soon to start construction. More information can be found about Basin3 at: basin3.co.uk Find out more about Peel Waters here: www.peelwaters.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
High specification formwork, from Doka, along with its innovative hydraulic climbing system, ensured the safe, speedy delivery of a specialist concrete core for a standout new office building in central London. The City of London’s urban planners were given the green light to Edenica, a 12-floor, 60-metre-high building for developer BREO Hundred. The new development is situated on the same site as the public house formerly known as the “Mucky Duck”, which was a prominent destination for sports journalists when the UK’s national newspaper publications were based in neighbouring Fleet Street. This building occupies a 140,000 ft2 site in Fetter Lane, with a pedestrian route and a sunken garden forming part of the development along with additional space for a new pub, more recently named “The White Swan”. Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation, Alastair Moss, said the scheme in Fetter Lane “represented strong ongoing developer confidence in the future of the City as a leading location” and an area to “spend time with friends, family and colleagues”. Main contractor Mace, is overseeing Edenica’s development, with the building’s core being formed and completed by specialist concrete sub-contractor Keltbray. It was achieve using Doka’s Top 50 wall formwork, supporting the need for a special high class architectural finish, and the Doka Framax systemised wall panels for the core’s primary solution. The large-area Top 50 formwork allowed for the design and pre-assembly of bespoke shuttering, which was essential to achieving the architect’s specialist wall pattern finish for the Edenica building, in good time and to the highest standard. Edenica’s central London location restricted the use of cranage due to strict site boundary limits being imposed to protect the surrounding live, public environment. It called for a hydraulic climbing system, which is where the Doka SKE50 plus system overcame the challenges presented by the serious lack of operational space. Firstly, the crane-independent SKE50 plus proved ideal for providing a coordinated anchor pattern around the form ties to facilitate the core’s external design pattern. Thanks to pre-project design capabilities from the Doka team, the anchors were concealed within the raised floor zones to avoid disrupting the finished wall’s aesthetic. The SKE50 plus’ strength and all-hydraulic performance was also key to its other vital function as part of the Edenica project. The new steel frame building contained a separate unsupported riser. It meant an innovative approach was needed to install temporary diagonal support struts at each floor to give the main core the structural strength to incorporate the non-standard element of the building’s design. Due to limited crane access, a winch was attached to the SKE50 plus’ platforms, enabling the struts to be lifted from a minus two level platform – designed by Doka – and affixed to the concrete core. The Edenica programme showcases how the Doka specialist formwork, paired with design expertise, effectively enabled the meeting of complex and demanding project challenges to ensure the safe erection of its concrete core within the clients’ seven-month timeframe. Furthermore, Doka’s formwork expert’s site visits ensured its pre-assembled platforms’ correct implementation. Along with the company’s productive consultations with Keltbray, it offered a fine demonstration of Doka’s all-round service delivery and commitment to a successful project outcome. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Big Green Coach continues to lead the way in providing carbon-neutral transportation services nationwide. Already established as the UK’s largest events travel company, Big Green Coach continues to grow its Transport Solutions business within the BDC sector, prioritising sustainability and efficiency in its operations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Big Green Coach demonstrated agility by pivoting its services to meet the pressing need for safe transportation of essential workers. This move not only showcased its adaptability but also spurred growth in its staff transport business, which continues to expand post-pandemic. Working with Laing O’Rourke, Eiffage, Kier Group, East West Rail, Volker Rail, Murphy Group, Matiere and other key industry-leading businesses has underscored the growing demand for sustainable transport options within the BDC sector. Big Green Coach’s tailored solutions address the specific needs of these clients, whether it’s streamlining logistics for large-scale projects or facilitating daily commutes for workforce teams, while remaining committed to its carbon-neutral ethos. The experienced travel company can source a diverse range of vehicles, including cutting-edge electric minivans and environmentally friendly Euro VI coaches. All vehicles are Chapter 8 compliant and come with fully registered and certified drivers. The trusted and professional service also comes with a 24/7 transport manager, ensuring that there is always a single point of contact to deal with any difficult situations. Paul Johnson, Business Development Manager at Big Green Coach, expressed his enthusiasm about the ongoing growth of the company’s Transport Solutions department: “We are delighted to continue our longstanding relationships with companies such as EKFB, while also embracing new partnerships within the BDC sector. Leveraging our extensive experience in event travel, we continue to offer robust staff transport solutions. This ongoing growth enables us to expand our services while actively contributing to a sustainable future.” As Big Green Coach looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental responsibility and client satisfaction, driving positive change within the transportation industry. Companies looking to find sustainable solutions to their transport needs can request a free consultation with Big Green Coach. The initial call will endeavour to help the sustainable transport experts at Big Green Coach understand the requirements and set out the next steps to achieve the company’s goals. Request a free one-to-one call with a dedicated member of the Big Green Coach Transport Solutions team and sign up for its Business Travel Newsletter here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Digital Construction Week is an annual event focusing on the future of the built environment – this year taking place from 5th to 6th of June. To mark the occasion, Smart Construction’s Deputy General Manager, Richard Clement, takes a deep dive into five of the biggest changes he predicts for the industry, from AI and robotics to automation and green construction. Sustainable and green construction Industry experts predict that the industry will be seeing an increase in green, eco-friendly building materials over the next decade like recycled steel, bamboo, and sustainable concrete. This is a trend that has recently begun to emerge with bamboo and recycled glass on the rise in construction. We will see a rise in energy-efficient buildings with an enhanced focus on reducing energy consumption and integrating renewable energy sources. With the Future Homes Standard coming into effect next year, we will definitely be seeing an enhanced focus on this in the coming years. We will also see stricter regulations and goals for reducing carbon footprints come into place, leading to innovations in construction methods and materials that lower greenhouse gas emissions. Advanced construction technologies The sector will continue progressing its adoption of technology – something that will continue to advance in the coming years. Richard goes on to add: “We have already seen great progression in the industry due to different technological advancements, something that will continue to improve the industry. “In particular, I think construction will see a rise in drone usage for site surveys, inspections, and monitoring to improve accuracy and safety.” This year Smart Construction will be rolling out an innovative Edge 2 solution that offers highly effective drone surveying which is used to rapidly process high quality and precise data from the job site, providing the construction workforce with a way of calculating job site progress quickly and identifying any challenges or unforeseen considerations. “The industry will also see a rise in automation over the next decade, an innovation that we are already seeing a lot more of. This will be essential in alleviating time consuming tasks from the workforce, such as admin, and freeing up their time for more important tasks.’’ Data-driven decision making Data analytics and insights will be essential in the industry to inform and guide various aspects of construction projects. Richard explains this can include using historical project data to identify trends and patterns, employing real-time data from sensors and monitoring systems to make proactive decisions, and leveraging predictive analytics to forecast potential issues or outcomes. He adds: “By harnessing data, construction companies can optimise project planning, resource allocation, and risk management. For example, data-driven decision-making can help in scheduling tasks more efficiently, identifying areas for cost savings, and improving overall project performance. Additionally, data analysis can be used to enhance safety measures and quality control on construction sites.” Smart Construction’s Remote allows users to send new design data to machines in the field, or remotely support operators, without travelling to the jobsite – saving time and fuel. Smart Construction’s Remote in action Major construction companies working on the HS2 project in the UK have been satisfied customers of Smart Construction since 2021 when it began using Remote to support the construction of the railway. In total, major contractors saved more than 176 commuting hours which consequently saved more than 1,059 litres of fuel by using Remote to alleviate travel in May 2023-2024. This equated to more than eight tonnes of CO2 avoided. Richard commented on the personal safety benefits of using Remote on the HS2 site, explaining: “HS2 workers no longer have to use stilts or climb on machines, and can send design data so much quicker and safer than before. Non-operators working on the line are no longer allowed to enter the machine cabin for safety reasons. Smart Construction’s Remote means that this safety regulation doesn’t affect speed or productivity.’’ Enhanced safety measures Richard predicts the industry will utilise wearable technology to monitor workers’ health and safety in real-time. This allows real-time health and hazard monitoring such as heart rate, enhanced communication between the worker and wider team, injury prevention, and GPS tracking. “Mobile phones and Augmented Reality will also become a key player in utility works. The workforce is taking 3D imagery of their work so that the next team, months or years later, can see what is below the footpath prior to starting the job. This gives visual confirmation as these 3D images are geolocated, just like drone imagery for Smart Construction Dashboard users.” Workforce development and upskilling Nurturing the workforce is the most valuable asset for a construction company, Richard emphasises. Providing opportunities for upskilling and career progression is crucial for maintaining a strong and capable team. “By investing in the development of the existing workforce, not only can recruitment costs be reduced, but it also alleviates stress on managers who can rely on a skilled and adaptable team. With advancing technology, upskilling becomes even more essential to ensure the team is prepared for the future.” To find out more about digital solutions, visit: smartconstruction.io Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
