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Advocating for Policy Reform to Maximise Green Belt Site Potential

Advocating for Policy Reform to Maximise Green Belt Site Potential

A national planning and development consultancy has urged the Labour government to clarify national planning policy guidance, enabling local planning authorities (LPAs) to develop bespoke local policies that support investment and growth at developed Green Belt sites. Following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ recent announcement on Green Belt development, Lichfields highlights the

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A2Dominion pursues new approach to property development

A2Dominion pursues new approach to property development

Social housing provider A2Dominion is pursuing a new approach to property development, as part of a raft of changes being brought in by the Board and Executive Management Team.   Going forward the 38,000-home housing association will focus on regeneration and the redevelopment of neighbourhoods which need the greatest amount of

Read More »
SP Energy Networks to use ground-breaking technology in Wrexham

SP Energy Networks to use ground-breaking technology in Wrexham

A substation in Wrexham is at the heart of SP Energy Networks’ first live network deployment of smart transformers to help the connection of low carbon technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps as part of a £8.3m innovation project. Funded by Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition, LV Engine will

Read More »
CIBSE and IBPSA-England announce their partnership for 2025 Technical Symposium

CIBSE and IBPSA-England announce their partnership for 2025 Technical Symposium

CIBSE and IBPSA-England are pleased to unveil their partnership for the upcoming 2025 Technical Symposium. This joint effort merges two premier events in building performance and sustainable design: CIBSE’s annual Technical Symposium and IBPSA-England’s biennial Building Simulation and Optimisation event. Themed “Fit for 2050 – Achieving Net-Zero through Intelligent, Resilient

Read More »
The regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic moves to the delivery phase

The regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic moves to the delivery phase

The regeneration of Wythenshawe town centre continues to accelerate as the Council decides on the appointment of a new development delivery and investment partner – in a report to the Council’s executive committee yesterday. The opportunity is to transform the 1970s shopping centre and surrounding areas through an aspirational project

Read More »
Cityheart Launches Stopford Park - Stockport Newest Neighbourhood

Cityheart Launches Stopford Park – Stockport Newest Neighbourhood

Cityheart has revealed the new name for its 442-apartment scheme on Greek Street and Wellington Road in Stockport. The development, formally known as Royal George Village, has been rebranded Stopford Park in line with Cityheart’s vision to create a new neighbourhood community and landscaped public realm in the heart of

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Marley introduces new Solartile 410

Marley introduces new Solartile 410

The call for solar continues to be strong, with more efficient panels being demanded by homeowners, housebuilders and contractors. In response, Marley has launched a new panel option in its SolarTile® range – the SolarTile® 410. The new panel delivers a peak power of 410W to increase total power from

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Hull construction firm secures top health and safety accreditation

Hull construction firm secures top health and safety accreditation

Hull based construction firm, Hobson & Porter has achieved international certification through the British Standards Institute (BSI) for occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS), which underscores the company’s dedication to creating a safe and healthy work environment for all employees and stakeholders. The company has secured the ISO 45001

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Latest Issue

BDC 319 : Aug 2024

BDC News Team

Advocating for Policy Reform to Maximise Green Belt Site Potential

Advocating for Policy Reform to Maximise Green Belt Site Potential

A national planning and development consultancy has urged the Labour government to clarify national planning policy guidance, enabling local planning authorities (LPAs) to develop bespoke local policies that support investment and growth at developed Green Belt sites. Following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ recent announcement on Green Belt development, Lichfields highlights the potential economic and social benefits of planning reform. Their newly published research points out the challenges posed by current national Green Belt policy guidance, which could hinder investment and prevent existing businesses from enhancing their facilities, remaining competitive, and delivering a range of essential services. The report, titled ‘Major Developed Sites in the Green Belt – The Land That Policy Forgot?’, reveals that a portion of the Green Belt, which encompasses about 12.6% of England’s land area, is used for various purposes, including leisure and tourism with theme parks and other major attractions, education, medical institutions, business parks, and transport infrastructure. Lichfields notes that pre-2012 national policy recognised many of these areas as Major Developed Sites (MDS), providing clearer guidance on how LPAs should assess development proposals. However, this was removed by the 2012 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which established more subjective, generalised guidance. This change removed the detailed guidance on how LPAs could identify, define, and guide development at such sites in local plans, potentially limiting these sites’ ability to evolve and contribute to local economies and services. Ian York, a Planning Director at Lichfields and co-author of the report, stated: “Our research shows that the majority of LPAs are adopting generalised policies that repeat national guidance. We must move away from a one-size-fits-all approach and adopt local, bespoke policies that recognise the unique characteristics of these sites. The report urges LPAs to engage with landowners and operators to create detailed policies that clearly define development parameters, ensuring these sites can thrive without compromising Green Belt integrity.” The research indicates that of the 180 LPAs with Green Belt land, only a third have adopted criteria-based, bespoke policies, while two-thirds rely on generic NPPF guidelines. This local policy context creates uncertainty for owners and operators planning for their sites’ future, especially where there is a continuous need to renew and refresh attractions and overnight accommodation to remain attractive to visitors and competitive. Additionally, there is a regional disparity in the policy approach, with the North West of England having the highest reliance on generic NPPF-based Green Belt policies, while the South East of England leads in bespoke policies. York added: “National Government has a very important part to play. With the new Labour government’s commitment to update the NPPF within its first 100 days, there is a crucial opportunity to reintroduce policy guidance akin to the previous MDS framework. This will provide much-needed clarity and support for LPAs and developers alike.” Lichfields urges policymakers to consider these recommendations seriously. Tailored local policies are essential to unlocking the full potential of developed Green Belt sites, enabling them to significantly contribute to local economies, enhance community services, and support sustainable growth across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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A2Dominion pursues new approach to property development

A2Dominion pursues new approach to property development

Social housing provider A2Dominion is pursuing a new approach to property development, as part of a raft of changes being brought in by the Board and Executive Management Team.   Going forward the 38,000-home housing association will focus on regeneration and the redevelopment of neighbourhoods which need the greatest amount of investment to make a real and positive impact on residents and communities.  The housing association is aiming to improve the quality and performance of customers’ homes and to provide affordable housing by bringing together internal expertise to improve, regenerate its existing portfolio.  The new approach moves the Group away from its previous emphasis on new developments, particularly those for private sale via its FABRICA by A2Dominion brand. As a result, the Group has seen its new build programme drop from 7,817 at its peak in 2018 – when it was one of the country’s top ten developing housing associations – to 1,645 today. The move also aligns with the Group’s decision to re-focus priorities to make improvements to services following its recent downgrade. To reflect the new strategy and reduced programme, the Group intends to reduce the size of its development team by half with colleague consultation already underway. It will also take a regional approach to the delivery of its current pipeline and future projects, with dedicated teams for London and the South East. This includes a technical team focused on a regeneration-led approach to future development, whilst ensuring continuity with its current joint venture projects.  Michael Reece, A2Dominion’s Chief Property Officer, said: “We remain committed to building new affordable homes for those in need, however this will be done in a slightly different way. The shift will see A2Dominion targeting the regeneration and redevelopment of properties that need the greatest investment. Our new strategy will also improve the quality and energy and environmental performance of homes to either improve, regenerate or disinvest in our existing portfolio.  “This new way of developing homes and improving existing customers’ living environments is designed to build resilience and flexibility into our development programme.  “We will also focus on individual investment strategies for each local authority partner which will focus on reviewing and regenerating current stock. This will also look at stock rationalisation and dis-investment in stock that distracts the Group from its core purpose.  “We’ll be looking at opportunities for redeveloping and improving densification and consider stock rationalisation where necessary to fund new development opportunities within the area.   “Importantly we’ll consult with our key stakeholders and focus on customer needs within that local authority, providing a tailored approach to each of the communities we serve.”    “We also recognise the impact these difficult decisions have on our colleagues and appreciate their hard-work and reliance through this change” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Construction work progressing well at Balfour Beatty Homes’ new development in Ketton

Construction work progressing well at Balfour Beatty Homes’ new development in Ketton

Construction work at a site in Ketton is progressing well, with the four-bedroom detached Boughton showhome now ready and waiting for visitors to explore. Balfour Beatty Homes is building a collection of 50 two, three and four-bedroom homes called The Crescent in the beautiful rural location near Stamford. Figures from Rightmove pay testament to the growing popularity of the location, with data showing that sold prices in Ketton were up a huge 36 per cent from last year – so house hunters are being urged to buy now to avoid missing out. Gill Sabin, Sales and Marketing Director for Balfour Beatty Homes, said: “We always knew that homes at The Crescent would be popular with buyers, but the reaction has really blown us away. Over the launch weekend we received nearly 150 enquiries from buyers, which really does show how successful the development is proving to be. “It’s no wonder though – with a picturesque location in Rutland and high-quality homes, this home is ideal for all sorts of people, from families through to downsizers. There are great links to Peterborough, Grantham and Leicester too, making the homes ideal for commuters. “While these employment hubs are easily reachable, the historic town of Stamford is also only three miles away. We’ve found that our buyers are keen to live near this town and it’s no wonder – with lovely streets, tasty food and independent shops, it’s the perfect place to while away an afternoon. “Our showhome is now open, so we’re encouraging people to visit as soon as they are able to and see The Cresent for themselves.” With a spacious, airy kitchen/dining area, separate living room, study and utility room, as well as four bedrooms upstairs – two complete with ensuites – the Boughton showhome is now open and has been designed to showcase the very best that Balfour Beatty Homes has to offer. There are three and four-bedroom homes currently available at The Crescent, with prices starting from £445,000. As part of the development’s S106 contributions, money is being invested into increasing the biodiversity of the location and supplying a number of affordable homes for local people just down the road in Chater. To find out more information on the new homes and to make an appointment to visit, go to balfourbeattyhomes.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SP Energy Networks to use ground-breaking technology in Wrexham

SP Energy Networks to use ground-breaking technology in Wrexham

A substation in Wrexham is at the heart of SP Energy Networks’ first live network deployment of smart transformers to help the connection of low carbon technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps as part of a £8.3m innovation project. Funded by Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition, LV Engine will carry out this world first demonstration at Wrexham to investigate how power electronics – a way of controlling and converting voltage – can help improve the quality and efficiency of power supplied into customers’ homes and reduce the need for disruptive and costly network reinforcement. LV Engine will use cutting-edge power electronic technology aiming to demonstrate greater voltage control at a substation level. The smart control system will recognise where electricity capacity can be shared between itself and other transformers on the network to maximise space on the existing network, allowing more low carbon technologies to be connected. Smart meter data will help tailor voltage in line with demand to ensure a high quality of supply for customers. This real-time data will also help operational planning and further increase capacity on the grid. Graham Campbell, Director of Processes and Technology of SP Energy Networks said: “Power electronics are playing a critical role in enabling our decarbonisation journey. This has become increasingly critical at distribution level to increase capacity and stability of the network as demand increases, while providing more flexibility for customers. Being a global first, LV Engine is developing engineering solutions that will enable a sustainable and efficient energy future by helping to shape future network design and make our LV network more flexible, adaptable and ready for our low carbon future. “This project is a culmination of collaboration between SP Energy Networks and its partners, particularly Ermco, to test and trial this globally unique solution. By improving the quality of the power supplied to customers’ homes we can continue to provide a resilient and reliable electricity supply while enabling more customers to adopt low carbon technologies and, potentially, in the longer term, reduce their bills.” The LV Engine project in Wrexham is part of wider works by SP Energy Networks innovation team to investigate and establish ways of adapting the electricity network to best meet the electricity needs of customers well into the future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CIBSE and IBPSA-England announce their partnership for 2025 Technical Symposium

CIBSE and IBPSA-England announce their partnership for 2025 Technical Symposium

CIBSE and IBPSA-England are pleased to unveil their partnership for the upcoming 2025 Technical Symposium. This joint effort merges two premier events in building performance and sustainable design: CIBSE’s annual Technical Symposium and IBPSA-England’s biennial Building Simulation and Optimisation event. Themed “Fit for 2050 – Achieving Net-Zero through Intelligent, Resilient and Sustainable Design in the Built Environment,” the CIBSE IBPSA-England Technical Symposium 2025 aims to serve as a platform for the latest research and innovations in sustainable practices. This partnership underscores a shared dedication to advancing knowledge and best practices in building performance. Event highlights Combined expertise: Leveraging the strengths of both organisations, the symposium promises a comprehensive programme covering a broad spectrum of topics related to building performance and sustainability. Diverse formats: Attendees can expect engaging sessions including technical reviews, case studies and poster presentations, fostering dynamic discussions and knowledge exchange. Networking opportunities: The event will provide numerous opportunities for participants to connect with industry peers, exchange insights and establish valuable professional relationships that can catalyse future collaborations and innovations. Simon Parker, Managing Director of CIBSE Services said about this partnership: ‘At CIBSE, we’re excited to collaborate with IBPSA-England for the 2025 Technical Symposium. This partnership combines top expertise in building performance and sustainable design, delivering cutting-edge research and innovations. We look forward to meaningful discussions and connections that will shape the future of the built environment.’ Professor Neveen Hamza, Chair of IBPSA-England stated: ‘IBPSA-England is excited to partner with CIBSE for the 2025 Technical Symposium. As an affiliate of the International Building Performance Simulation Association, IBPSA-England focuses on improving the built environment through building performance simulation. This collaboration merges our biennial Building Simulation and Optimisation conference with CIBSE’s annual Technical Symposium, creating a unified platform for cutting-edge research and innovation in building performance and sustainable design.’ Join us in shaping the future of the built environment. Abstract submissions are now open. Please visit https://go.cibse.org/ts2025-pr for more information and to submit your abstract. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic moves to the delivery phase

The regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic moves to the delivery phase

The regeneration of Wythenshawe town centre continues to accelerate as the Council decides on the appointment of a new development delivery and investment partner – in a report to the Council’s executive committee yesterday. The opportunity is to transform the 1970s shopping centre and surrounding areas through an aspirational project that will deliver a new public square, new shops, net zero carbon commercial, community and cultural space, and more than 1750 new homes built on Council-owned land. The housing will be a mix of typologies and tenures to match local housing demand and will include affordable homes along with supported accommodation.   Earlier this year, the Council was awarded £20m grant funding through the Levelling Up Fund (LUF) programme. The Council will now complement this with a further £11.9m of match funding to deliver a new Culture and Creative hub, food hall, co-working and enterprise employment space, and investment in the Civic’s public realm.   However, over the lifespan of the long-term regeneration programme, the total investment will exceed £500m over the next 10 years with initial development work commencing as early as next year.  Culture Hub  A professional team has already been appointed to design a new Culture Hub, including an operational business model to ensure the hub is financially and operationally sustainable along with being able to support local people on a long-term basis. Following initial consultation in July this year, a feasibility study has now been approved and emerging plans will be subject to further public consultation.   Once the principles of the Culture Hub have been agreed, the Council will begin a process to appoint an operator to run and manage the hub. This will process will likely begin later this year.   Public Realm  A landscape design team has now been commissioned to map out opportunities to deliver a new public square, new connections, sustainable drainage and significant new green planting and play equipment. This work is currently at RIBA stage 2 and the Council has already commenced procurement of a contractor to deliver the works, subject to public consultation on the final designs. The Council is on track to appoint the contractor to deliver the new public square later this summer.   Work is ongoing on the feasibility options to deliver the food hall and co-working and employment spaces.  Joint Venture Delivery & Investment Partner   Following the acquisition of the Civic by the Council in 2022, it was envisaged that a private sector partner would be required to invest into and develop the Civic at scale to meet the regeneration ambitions set out in the development framework for the shopping centre.   The formal procurement process is now complete subject to approval by the Councils Executive. If approved, the successful partner will be announced in August following the formal call-in period.  The joint venture partner will:  A formal announcement of the successful partner will be made in the next four weeks.   In the meantime…  The Council has also been working with community organisations and enterprises to widen the offer at Wythenshawe Civic to increase footfall within the town centre and drive momentum ahead of the major investment beginning.   Monthly Makers Markets will begin from 3 August offering a range of independent stalls – from crafts to street food. The Maker Market brings together artisans, makers, bakers and other businesses in pop-up markets that have previously been held in Ancoats and Chorlton.   Following hosting an event earlier in the year, the Civic will also host regular bike workshops hosted by the Bike Kitchen, providing training, servicing and sales.  Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said:   “We know this will be welcome news to the people of Wythenshawe as we stand at the dawn of a new era for their town centre.   “However, we also know that areas like Wythenshawe have seen higher rates of deprivation – and this extends to poorer health outcomes – but through strategic investment such as this, we can begin to create opportunities for these communities to share in the economic success of the city.  “This means the right housing – including council, social and genuinely affordable homes – new jobs, new shops and a neighbourhood that both meets their needs and a place they can be proud to spend time in. These are the building blocks for successful communities and this programme of regeneration will deliver for local people.”  Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said:   “Regeneration programmes of this size and ambition take some time to bring forward and although we understand that local people are very keen to see this investment take shape – as we are too – the work we are doing now will make sure we have a long-term, sustainable proposal that will benefit Wythenshawe people for years to come.  “In the meantime, we are working hard to bring forward impactful investment that will kick-start the long-term development of the Civic, including the Culture Hub and public realm improvements. Alongside plans to increase footfall to the town centre and attract new visitors to the area, such as bike repairs and local markets.  “We are fully committed to the regeneration of Wythenshawe and we can’t wait to show local people what we have been doing so far and get their feedback.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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UK Government must explain how it will build more homes following King’s Speech

UK Government must explain how it will build more homes following King’s Speech

Propertymark is keen to see the UK Government clarify how it intends to deliver more homes following the King’s Speech.   The professional body has previously argued that the new UK Government would need to build a large, new housing estate with over 1000 homes every day to hit its target of 1.5 million new homes by 2029.   During the King’s Speech yesterday, His Majesty said: “My ministers will get Britain building, including through planning reform, as they seek to accelerate the delivery of high-quality infrastructure and housing (Planning and Infrastructure Bill).”   Prior to the King’s Speech, the new UK Government pledged to study reform of the national planning framework, including restoring compulsory housing goals for local authorities, as part of their plan to construct 1.5 million new homes by the end of this parliament.   Propertymark has also previously called on the UK Government to redefine what the green belt is so that there can be a focused programme of building on brownfield sites first.   Nathan Emerson, CEO at Propertymark, comments:    “Pledges from the new UK Government to build 1.5 million new homes and to reform the national planning policy framework to restore compulsory housebuilding targets for local authorities are welcome, as this country desperately needs to ensure supply meets increasing demand and ultimately make home ownership more affordable.    “However, Propertymark has previously highlighted that for the new UK Government to meet its ambitious housing targets there must be a full review and wide-ranging stakeholder engagement to ensure there is sensible infrastructure in place to enable new developments to flourish and compliment the areas they are built within. “It is imperative that existing areas which are available for use are strategically prioritised for redevelopment above greenbelt land – moving forwards there must be a ‘connected communities’ approach and one which integrates and enhances already established metropolitan areas.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Cityheart Launches Stopford Park - Stockport Newest Neighbourhood

Cityheart Launches Stopford Park – Stockport Newest Neighbourhood

Cityheart has revealed the new name for its 442-apartment scheme on Greek Street and Wellington Road in Stockport. The development, formally known as Royal George Village, has been rebranded Stopford Park in line with Cityheart’s vision to create a new neighbourhood community and landscaped public realm in the heart of the town. The three-acre site was acquired last year by Cityheart, the development team behind Stockport’s award-winning Interchange and is being supported with a £9m GMCA brownfield development grant. The new branding and placemaking campaign was unveiled last night at Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery in partnership with Sheila Bird Studio who will also be designing the interior spaces. Jon Humphreys, Creative Partner at Sheila Bird Studio said: “Stopford Park is a place for all Stopfordians to live work and socialise. It’s a place for a community to put down some roots as the town looks to the future with optimism and pride. Cityheart are building homes, not ‘investment units’ and the new landscaped gardens at the centre of the neighbourhood will be there for all to enjoy. “Culture is major catalyst for urban regeneration and Stockport is thriving with creative talent. Stopford Park will feature a selection of art installations, a creative thread that celebrates culture and connects our neighbours with The War Memorial Art Museum and the Stockport Art College.” The new homes at Stopford Park will span three principle residential buildings. The 115,000 sq ft Torkington will be converted into 122 apartments, while the 60,000 sq ft Lyme Centre will be demolished and replaced with a 16-storey apartment block called Lyme which comprises 258 units. A third building, Bosden, will provide 62 homes for sale and will be the first building to be delivered on the site. The grade-two listed Greek Street Building, the former Metropolitan Girls’ School, will be converted into a collaborative co-working space for local businesses called Cheers & Smith, named after the architects responsible for its design. The buildings are connected by a new landscaped south-facing ‘Art Park’ creating additional public open space and private gardens for residents. The placemaking project features work by local photographer Madeline Penfold, celebrating the people of Stockport across the site hoardings. Many of the subjects who took part in the project were at the event to see Cityheart’s plans for Stopford Park. Commenting on the launch Jonny Wrigley, Group Chief Executive for Cityheart said: “The campaign celebrates the hard-working people of Stockport who are playing their part in delivering the incredible changes the town has seen in recent years and who have help us shape our vision for Stopford Park. These are the local people at the heart of Stockport’s renaissance, and we are delighted that so many of them joined us last night to celebrate the launch.” “Stopford Park will be a new neighbourhood, firmly rooted in Stockport and connected to its rich history and heritage. It is in a superb location for commuting and accessing the town centre and is right next door to Stockport’s historic War Memorial Art Gallery. Its design has been informed following lengthy consultation with Stopfordians including local businesses, residents, creatives and artists and it will deliver a thriving new neighbourhood with homes for people to live, spaces to work and places to socialise.” Construction commenced late 2023 and the buildings will be completed in phases throughout 2026. For more information on Stopford Park visit www.stopfordpark.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Marley introduces new Solartile 410

Marley introduces new Solartile 410

The call for solar continues to be strong, with more efficient panels being demanded by homeowners, housebuilders and contractors. In response, Marley has launched a new panel option in its SolarTile® range – the SolarTile® 410. The new panel delivers a peak power of 410W to increase total power from a roof area, while allowing for the installation of fewer solar panels to achieve the desired output. By adding a more powerful 410Wp panel to the SolarTile® range, alongside the existing 335Wp solution, specifiers, housebuilders and contractors can benefit from increased versatility depending on project size and output requirements. The new Marley SolarTile® 410 offers simple roof integration with a clean, low-profile aesthetic making it a desirable and efficient solution for new build and retrofit projects. Compatible with Marley’s existing range of concrete and clay tiles, and including special fixings for different batten thicknesses, the 410 panel is accompanied by a complete family of colour-coded flashing kits, for ease of installation. The 410 panel achieves exceptional fire performance, wind resistance and weather tightness, making it an ideal solution for solar roofing projects. Stuart Nicholson, Roof Systems Director at Marley, comments: “Since launching with 270Wp and 310Wp solar panels in 2021, Marley has continued to focus on pushing for enhanced solar panel efficiency.  Alongside the current 335Wp panel, the new SolarTile® 410Wp panel widens specification choice for the market. “It is further evidence of our continued commitment to delivering an ever-improving, complete renewable package – which now includes battery storage, inverters and EV charging solutions – to support the construction industry in its drive to build more energy efficient properties. Solar panel specification on roofscapes is increasing as regulatory changes look to improve housing stock, provide access to renewable energy and make homes more energy efficient ahead of the 2050 net zero target. “The new Marley SolarTile® 410 panel allows specifiers, housebuilders, and contractors to incorporate fewer panels to attain a desired power output. It also reduces installation timescales to optimise resource planning and further reduce cost. The Marley SolarTile® range integrates perfectly with our full roof system, meaning specifiers, housebuilders and contractors can also benefit from the reassurance of Marley’s 15-year warranty. Additionally, Marley’s team of experts are also on hand to offer complete technical support for the roof design and panel installation.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hull construction firm secures top health and safety accreditation

Hull construction firm secures top health and safety accreditation

Hull based construction firm, Hobson & Porter has achieved international certification through the British Standards Institute (BSI) for occupational health and safety management systems (OHSMS), which underscores the company’s dedication to creating a safe and healthy work environment for all employees and stakeholders. The company has secured the ISO 45001 standard, which is the world’s first international standard for managing OH&S risks and achieving the certification is a testament to Hobson & Porter’s unwavering commitment to health and safety. The accreditation process involved a comprehensive review of the company’s occupational health and safety policies, procedures and practices. This rigorous evaluation ensures that Hobson & Porter meets the highest standards of risk management, regulatory compliance and proactive health and safety measures. This is the third certification that Hobson & Porter has secured directly from BSI. In recent years the company has also achieved the world’s most recognised environmental management system, ISO 14001, as well as ISO 9001, which is the internationally recognised Quality Management System standard. David Blades, safety, health, environment and quality (SHEQ) director from Hobson & Porter, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive the ISO 45001 accreditation. This achievement reflects our continuous efforts to prioritise the well-being of our employees, clients and partners. By adhering to the highest standards of occupational health and safety, we aim to foster a culture of safety that permeates every aspect of our business. “Our entire SHEQ team worked hard to secure this accreditation and our commitment to excellence, attention to detail and persistent pursuit of safety have been instrumental in this accomplishment. “Crucially, when we combine ISO 45001 with our existing ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 accreditations, which have all been achieved directly through BSI’s own very demanding and robust audit process, it gives us full and proper integration, to a common assessment standard, across all management systems within our SHEQ team. “All this brings significant benefits to clients and partners, demonstrating our commitment to minimising workplace risks and continuously improving our health and safety performance. Clients can therefore be confident that Hobson & Porter’s projects are executed with the utmost regard for safety, quality and efficiency. It also goes way above what the law requires in many areas, meaning it’s something that we are all take great pride in.” Hobson & Porter, which employs a 120-strong team and is headquartered in Hull, is currently working on a wide range of projects across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire spanning the education, healthcare, housing, industrial and renewable energy sectors. This latest accreditation follows Hobson & Porter being presented with The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) President’s Award, after the company scooped gold awards for 11 consecutive years for its health and safety performance. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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