BDC News Team
New Desigo Optic Building Management Software from Siemens offers simple, powerful and scalable solution for visualising & controlling building automation systems

New Desigo Optic Building Management Software from Siemens offers simple, powerful and scalable solution for visualising & controlling building automation systems

Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new building management software designed to offer an open, powerful and scalable software solution for one to many buildings of any size. Desigo Optic is powered by FIN framework (developed by Siemens partner company J2 Innovations) and brings the latest IoT technology to buildings

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Shed Design Ideas: Blending Functionality With Aesthetics

Shed Design Ideas: Blending Functionality With Aesthetics

Sheds are often overlooked structures in almost everyone’s backyards that quietly store random tools, equipment, and other knick-knacks. But just because a shed serves a practical purpose doesn’t mean it has to be boring and unsightly. In fact, nowadays, sheds are no longer considered as storage spaces alone. Now, they’ve

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Algeco UK shares a glimpse of its industry-leading solution at MOD Stafford

Algeco UK shares a glimpse of its industry-leading solution at MOD Stafford

Algeco UK OSS has shared behind-the-scenes images of its latest 75-bedroom Single Living Accommodation (SLA) complex at the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Stafford. The company has delivered a full turnkey solution, acting as Principal Contractor to the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the British Army. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)

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Residential project-starts nosedive

Residential project-starts nosedive

Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight experts, releases the April 2024 edition of its Construction Index. The Index focuses on the three months to the end of March 2024, covering all underlying projects, with a total value of £100m or less (unless otherwise indicated), with all figures seasonally

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SEGRO Park Rainham achieves final letting milestone

SEGRO Park Rainham achieves final letting milestone

SEGRO Park Rainham has reached full occupancy following the agreement of a new lease with Wolseley – one of the UK’s leading merchants in plumbing, heating, cooling and infrastructure with over 500 UK branches. Wolseley has agreed to occupy 27,783 sq ft of urban warehouse space across two units at

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AmeyBriggs becomes the official Bronze Partner of Building Heroes

AmeyBriggs becomes the official Bronze Partner of Building Heroes

This collaboration strengthens Building Heroes’ mission to support the reskilling and redeployment of military veterans into the construction industry. Building Heroes, the leading military-to-construction charity is excited to unveil its latest partnership with AmeyBriggs, which proudly joins as a Bronze Sponsoring Partner. This collaboration strengthens Building Heroes’ mission to support

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Roann Limited secures £20 million care home project with R G Carter

Roann Limited secures £20 million care home project with R G Carter

Wakefield-based granite and quartz worktop supplier, Roann Limited, secure high-end project with R G Carter on the new £20 million Broomfield Village Care Home in Chelmsford, Essex. Ahead of the care home’s grand opening in May 2024, Roann Limited has been tasked with supplying and installing the worktops and splashbacks

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Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

BDC News Team

New Desigo Optic Building Management Software from Siemens offers simple, powerful and scalable solution for visualising & controlling building automation systems

New Desigo Optic Building Management Software from Siemens offers simple, powerful and scalable solution for visualising & controlling building automation systems

Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new building management software designed to offer an open, powerful and scalable software solution for one to many buildings of any size. Desigo Optic is powered by FIN framework (developed by Siemens partner company J2 Innovations) and brings the latest IoT technology to buildings such as schools, sports facilities, smaller hotels and retail outlets. It features a ‘single pane of glass’ interface to visualise and control HVAC, lighting and energy performance functions with a market leading dashboard builder. The open protocol approach ensures easy and seamless integration with Siemens and other third-party building automation systems, IoT devices and IT based applications. Major protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, KNX and OPC are all supported. Desigo Optic applies Haystack native semantic tagging to ensure harmonisation of data and fast access to critical building information, typically streamlining workflows by a third. Secure Edge2Cloud remote access technology (removing the need for, and the cost of, a VPN) allows ease of access to data, servicing and upgrading, reducing the requirement for site visits. It can be deployed in two ways: either on a server or on an embedded controller. Ensuring that all building types are not forgotten in finding ways to adopt decarbonisation measures is crucial in the move towards net zero operation. A recent study by Siemens showed that fewer than 50% of organisations expect to meet decarbonisation targets by 2030.[1] Desigo Optic is an important development in helping buildings to not only provide environments which actively contribute to the wellbeing of their users, but also to do so in a more resource-efficient way. [1] ‘Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2023: The Great Divide on The Path to Net Zero’ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Shed Design Ideas: Blending Functionality With Aesthetics

Shed Design Ideas: Blending Functionality With Aesthetics

Sheds are often overlooked structures in almost everyone’s backyards that quietly store random tools, equipment, and other knick-knacks. But just because a shed serves a practical purpose doesn’t mean it has to be boring and unsightly. In fact, nowadays, sheds are no longer considered as storage spaces alone. Now, they’ve evolved into stylish structures that can improve the general aesthetic of your outdoor space.   Currently, outdoor improvements have steadily increased in popularity, with 57% of homeowners reported to have done an outdoor renovation every year. So, besides working on your lawn, patio, or fences, now’s a good time to focus on your outdoor shed. Whether you dream of a cosy workshop or a stylish storage solution, there are countless ways to elevate your shed’s design.  Keep reading to explore some inspiring shed ideas, blending practicality and visual appeal.  Probably the most popular shed design is the classic wooden look, whether you’re aiming for a traditional shed or envisioning it as a summer house. There’s just something about the warm, natural beauty of timber that makes you want to curl up and relax away from the world. Plus, wood is a good insulator, making it a perfect spot for people looking for a workshop for their DIY projects.   To ensure you achieve this wooden aesthetic, opt for high-quality lumber, such as cedar or redwood. Not only are they naturally gorgeous, but they’re also resistant to decay and pesky insects, ensuring your shed will look great for years to come. If you’re unsure which lumber or wooden materials to use, you can always tap on the help of the shed builders in Toowoomba service.   These expert shed builders can help you select the perfect timber for your project to ensure everything is built to last. They can also guide you through the process of adding those charming finishing touches, such as a fresh coat of paint and some vintage-inspired hardware.   This shed design style can be suitable for people looking to have a mini space as a getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. To nail this rustic retreat look, make use of materials that possess some serious character. Reclaimed wood, for example. Besides its rich, weathered patina that adds instant charm, it’s also an eco-friendly choice. In fact, did you know that using reclaimed wood is reported to reduce carbon emissions by 78% in 2050? You’re practically helping preserve the planet while building your backyard escape!  Another important element for designing a rustic retreat shed is adding vintage-inspired details. Think corrugated metal roofing, antique-style hardware, or maybe even a salvaged window or two. These small touches can add so much personality and warmth to your outdoor shed.  If you love getting your hands dirty doing gardening chores, this might be the perfect design for you. For your greenhouse shed, you’ll want to incorporate large windows or even transparent panels to really maximise that sunshine. Other than helping your plants thrive, ample sunlight can make your greenhouse shed feel brighter and airier. Plus, since natural light is a good productivity and mood booster, this can help you feel extra motivated to tackle your gardening projects.    For the shed’s materials, incorporate plenty of shelving and storage solutions to keep your gardening tools organised. You may consider hanging baskets and potting benches or installing a little sink for quick clean-up. You can even build a small seating area, so you’ll have a space to relax and admire your hard work.   Of course, a greenhouse shed may require more maintenance, considering that you’re keeping live plants inside. So, ensure the shed has proper ventilation to avoid humidity, as well as some shade cloth to prevent your plants from getting scorched during the hot months.   For people who need a dedicated space for their arts and crafts, transforming your backyard shed into an artist’s studio can be ideal! The very first thing you need for this type of shed design is plenty of natural light. For one, proper lighting can help you see your work in its truest colours possible. You can opt for big windows and skylights or even hang multiple mirrors to help spread the light around.   As for the vibe, you may want the shed to have a clean and minimalist look with white walls and simple but functional furniture. A simpler and neater shed can also make it easier for you to concentrate on your craft. storage solutions solutions such as industrial shelving are also important to keep your arts and crafts supplies neat and safely tucked away. Lastly, don’t forget about a comfy seating area to use for work or for taking a break.” This shed design is perfect for families looking for a new and innovative play space for their kids! Creating a playhouse shed in your backyard is like giving your kids their very own little world to explore and imagine in. What’s more, studies have shown that imaginative or pretend play can bring positive effects on a child’s social and cognitive development.   When designing your playhouse shed, you can go for a classic storybook cottage look with cute window boxes, a peaked roof, and even a small front porch. Or, if your kids are more modernistic, you can build a playhouse with clean lines and pops of colour.   For the playhouse shed’s interiors, consider including kid-sized furniture like a little table and chairs, a play kitchen, or even a dress-up corner. Then, add more whimsical touches like a chalkboard wall for doodling, a reading nook, and a loft space for the hideout. The more interactive your shed is, the more your kids will love it.   Takeaway   These are just some of shed design ideas to get you going! With some smart design choices and proper planning, you can convert a humble backyard shed into a totally stylish, visually appealing and functional space. So, grab your toolbox and get ready to create your dream shed.

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Algeco UK shares a glimpse of its industry-leading solution at MOD Stafford

Algeco UK shares a glimpse of its industry-leading solution at MOD Stafford

Algeco UK OSS has shared behind-the-scenes images of its latest 75-bedroom Single Living Accommodation (SLA) complex at the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Stafford. The company has delivered a full turnkey solution, acting as Principal Contractor to the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the British Army. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) refers to offsite and onsite techniques, which could include mass production and factory assembly as alternatives to traditional building methods. These are a fast way of delivering new buildings focused on the efficiency of materials and human resources.  Modular buildings devised utilising MMC have the potential to deliver significant improvements in productivity and quality for both the construction industry and the end user. They also minimise the work required on-site, which can have added benefits and appeal for those in sectors such as Defence. The solution provided to MOD Stafford is a CTM Leve1 (Category 1) Pre-Manufacturing 3D primary structural system that will be used to house members of the army. The three-storey building, known as Beacon Barracks, is set to offer high-quality accommodation with integral communal areas, as well as a brick slip façade and sustainable features including solar PV and heat pumps. The modules for the barracks were manufactured in Carnaby in East Yorkshire and delivered to the site with a Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) of around 80%. MOD Stafford was designed by AHR Architects, supporting the Algeco UK OSS team on the construction stage and architectural design through its Leeds offices. A full site inspection has now been carried out with strong feedback received by attendees and participants, particularly regarding the overall quality and feel compared to comparative schemes.  Volumetric Air tests are carried out on all completed projects and the SLA Block at MOD Stafford has achieved a rating of 1.18. Lee Kenton of Build Energy commented that 1.18 is “exemplary for the size of the building” and “far exceeded” the Passivhaus gold standard of 0.60, with an air change rate of 0.48. The new barracks at MOD Stafford is part of an £800M investment into SLA by the Army over the next decade. This investment into modern infrastructure is set to provide military personnel with the fit-for-purpose accommodation facilities they deserve, as well as contribute to ambitions to become Carbon Net Zero by 2050. Brigadier Pete Quaite, Head of Army Infrastructure Plans, said, “I visited the Single Living Accommodation under construction at Beacon Barracks at the start of this year. To see the finished block just two months later shows the impressive pace of progress being achieved through our modular design and build programme. This new SLA is another excellent example of how ongoing Army investment is improving the quality of life for our people, providing them with modern, spacious and well-designed accommodation.” Wayne Yeomans, Algeco UK OSS Sales and Marketing Director  said, “This is modular and offsite construction at its best. I must applaud the Algeco UK team as well as our supply chain partners, including AHR Architects, for making this possible. Working with architects means we have incorporated innovative features into the design, such as solar PV orientation to maximise the amount of electricity produced and optimising the number of overall modules required. “We were selected as the modular building partner by the MOD because of our track record in supplying high quality accommodation on a diverse range of other publicly funded projects, along with our willingness to collaborate with project partners and deliver excellent value for money. “The quality of these solutions is proven by results, like the industry-leading scores achieved in our recent volumetric air test, which is not an easy achievement. We have learnt so much from this project and we are proud this will also help inform the Defence Infrastructure Organisation’s future Programmatic Design approach.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Residential project-starts nosedive

Residential project-starts nosedive

Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight experts, releases the April 2024 edition of its Construction Index. The Index focuses on the three months to the end of March 2024, covering all underlying projects, with a total value of £100m or less (unless otherwise indicated), with all figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a report which provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of year-on-year construction data, giving built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance over the last 12 months. The April Index paints a decidedly gloomy picture, in line with the persistent decline across the construction sector. Again, project-starts are down against the previous Index period and the previous year. Ongoing pressure on household budgets, coupled with economic uncertainty, continues to negatively affect consumer confidence. This has led to unease among investors, significantly delaying project-starts across the UK, as they wait for stability to return. Against this backdrop of socio-political disruption and a looming General Election, starts remain significantly lower than last year for a third consecutive month. The situation is unlikely to change in the short term, as the industry struggles to get back on its feet whilst being continuously battered by harsh headwinds. Commenting on the results, Glenigan Economist, Drilon Baca, says, “Unsurprisingly, our latest data shows project-starts remain low, with continued economic uncertainty leading to market stagnation, prolonging delays across the industry. Like the March Index, we haven’t seen the traditional ‘spring uptick’ boost starts this month. Investor confidence is at an all-time low, resulting in a general reluctance to move projects to site. The situation is likely to persist until the autumn when a new Government is in place and conducts a long-anticipated spending review.   “However it’s not all doom and gloom, there are some glimmers of hope on the horizon, with a number of non-residential verticals showing signs of improvement, including Community & Amenity, retail, and health, all of which were up on last year. Regionally, Northern Ireland was the standout area, posting growth against both periods. Taking a closer look at the sector verticals and regional outlook… Sector Analysis – Residential Residential construction experienced overall decline in the three months to March as starts fell 27% against both the preceding period and 2023 figures. Continuing on a downward trajectory, social housing performance was particularly weak, with starts down 43% against the preceding three months and 40% compared with the previous year. Private housing also dropped back, with work starting on site falling 22% against the previous three-month period and plummeted 24% on 2023 levels. Sector Analysis – Non-Residential Performance was mixed for non-residential verticals. Community & Amenity project-starts experienced an impressive growth period, increasing by 36% against the previous three months to stand 19% up on a year ago. A boost to the vertical was partially delivered by a £79 million prison extension project in Shaftsbury, Dorset. It was the only vertical to experience growth against both periods. Retail project-starts were in decline over the Index period, with a fall of 13% during Q.1. However, there was a modest value increase of 1% against the previous year. Utility starts decreased 21% against the preceding three months but also saw a modest increase against 2023, up by 2%. Similarly, health starts experienced a fall of 13% against the preceding three months, but advanced 26% on the same period last year. In contrast, education experienced a mixed period, up 3% compared with the last quarter but down 17% on a year ago. Elsewhere the sector continued to slump. Industrial starts remained lower than 2023 levels, decreasing 22%, and falling 15% during the three months to the end of March. Civil works fared particularly poorly, with the value of project-starts declining 34% against the preceding three months, to stand 26% lower than a year ago. A significant driver for the decline was poor performance in infrastructure, which remained 42% behind 2023 levels, with work starting on-site also slipping back 43% against the last quarter. Hotel & Leisure and office construction-starts were also down against both the previous quarter and the previous year. Regional Analysis Northern Ireland was the strongest-performing region in the UK, with project-starts increasing 44% against the preceding quarter, to stand 28% up on this time last year. Here, growth was accelerated by the £44 million development of the Hamilton Dock Hotel in Belfast. The outlook for the East of England was also optimistic. It was the only other region to experience growth against both periods, up 13% on the preceding three months, as well as 25% on the previous year. Growth in the region was helped by the £74 million commencement of a 246 residential unit development in Maldon, Essex. London experienced a 23% decrease against the preceding three months and remained 18% down against the previous year. The West Midlands experienced particularly poor performance, with the value of project-starts falling 56% against the preceding three months and by 45% compared with the same time last year. This was the steepest decline of any region. Work starting on site in the East Midlands (-49%), Wales (-33%), and Scotland (-25%) all remained distinctly behind 2023 figures. Every other region of the UK experienced a weakening in project-starts against both the previous quarter and the year before. To find out more about Glenigan and its construction intelligence services click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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SEGRO Park Rainham achieves final letting milestone

SEGRO Park Rainham achieves final letting milestone

SEGRO Park Rainham has reached full occupancy following the agreement of a new lease with Wolseley – one of the UK’s leading merchants in plumbing, heating, cooling and infrastructure with over 500 UK branches. Wolseley has agreed to occupy 27,783 sq ft of urban warehouse space across two units at the development. The company will join a diverse range of occupiers including Transport for London and London Ambulance Service. With BREEAM Excellent certification and an EPC A+ rating, the high-quality, flexible industrial units are designed to maximise space and natural light, and feature smart sensors that monitor electricity usage, heating and airflow, to enable the customer to benefit from cost reductions. In line with the company’s Responsible SEGRO commitment to Champion low-carbon growth, every unit at SEGRO Park Rainham incorporates highly efficient sustainability measures built for the long term, including photovoltaic panels installed on the roofs and walls, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging points as standard. SEGRO Park Rainham is part of the company’s East Plus regeneration scheme – a partnership with the Greater London Authority which will deliver 1.4 million sq ft of modern industrial space, spanning the London boroughs of Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Newham, and regenerating previously derelict land. Roger Connett, Managing Director (Specialist and Acquisitions Division) at Wolseley, said: “The investment at SEGRO Park Rainham further strengthens Wolseley’s growth strategy across the UK and Ireland. The unit will be occupied by Neville Lumb, a specialist market-leading supplier of commercial sanitaryware to new build and refurbishment projects. “The new location will further enhance Neville Lumb’s proposition for customers in London and the South whilst, materially improving the environmental impact of its operations.”  Bonnie Minshull, Head of London at SEGRO, said: “This new letting to Wolseley is an important milestone for SEGRO Park Rainham, as all units that form part of the second phase of development are now fully let. “It is fantastic to see that our deliberate design and focus on sustainability, longevity and innovation has created a vibrant and thriving business community for customers of all shapes and sizes, and we’re pleased that Wolseley is joining us here as the latest and final occupier.” Space is still available at the development’s Enterprise Quarter. With a range of units, it provides customers with options to take up more space as their businesses expand, and offers flexible leases, additional support services and access to amenities to aid growth. It comprises two parts: The Innovation Business Centre, which is tailored to meet the needs of start-ups; and the Enterprise Business Centre, which offers slightly larger units for growing SMEs. SEGRO Park Rainham is located adjacent to the A13, with fast access to central London and the M25. The development is on the perimeter of the UK’s largest market – with 46% of the UK’s population within a 90-minute drive. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Office Principles North hands over Central Co-op’s new Lichfield support centre

Office Principles North hands over Central Co-op’s new Lichfield support centre

Office interior design consultancy, Office Principles North, has completed the combined CAT A and CAT B refurbishment of a new Central Co-op support centre in Lichfield. The c.32,000 sq ft facility delivers a hybrid workplace destination over three floors of Central House, Queen Street and secures Central Co-op’s presence in the city. Its open plan design houses a variety of adaptable work settings to promote collaboration among teams and provide individuals with autonomy in how and where they work. Features include bespoke event spaces, themed meeting rooms and areas for focused activities. A breakfast bar and dining area doubles as social and entertainment space, while an outdoor terrace on the building’s third floor caters for meetings and events. The refurbishment has been shaped by Central Co-op’s commitment to the environment and social responsibility. Office Principles North has reused materials wherever possible – including reupholstering c.80% of existing furniture – while there is also new, sustainable lighting and external landscaping. Central Co-op has made a significant long-term investment in the infrastructure of Central House, including necessary roofworks, brickwork and new windows to ensure it complies with the latest building regulations. A focus on energy efficiency has secured an EPC ‘A’ rating. Office Principles North was chosen as delivery partner for the refurbishment following completion of an initial workplace consultancy project that involved Co-op colleagues. In addition to the CAT B works, the contractor has also delivered the CAT A refurbishment of 12,460 sq ft space that will be sublet by Central Co-op. Tina Batham, joint managing director of Office Principles North, said: “It has been a huge pleasure to work in partnership with Central Co-op to deliver its new Lichfield support centre. Together, we’ve created a modern, sustainable workplace that embodies the organisation’s culture and values and cements its place in the heart of the local community. The design has been shaped by Co-op colleagues and succeeds in fusing functional and creative spaces that promote both hybrid and collaborative ways of working. The project has undoubtedly enhanced Central Co-op’s existing property portfolio.” Liz Hanshaw, head of change at Central Co-op, said: “With sustainability being so core to our purpose, we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved, with a modern, light and airy space where colleagues can be at their very best to make a difference for Members and customers.  Not only have we created modern, convenient spaces where colleagues can work collaboratively together, we’ve also created a place where we can proudly host our events such as our Members meetings, in the heart of the city centre.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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AmeyBriggs becomes the official Bronze Partner of Building Heroes

AmeyBriggs becomes the official Bronze Partner of Building Heroes

This collaboration strengthens Building Heroes’ mission to support the reskilling and redeployment of military veterans into the construction industry. Building Heroes, the leading military-to-construction charity is excited to unveil its latest partnership with AmeyBriggs, which proudly joins as a Bronze Sponsoring Partner. This collaboration strengthens Building Heroes’ mission to support the reskilling and redeployment of military veterans into the construction industry. Building Heroes provides comprehensive support to military personnel, reservists, and their families during their transition from military to civilian life. Participants receive support which encompasses essential skills, training, and guidance to facilitate successful careers in the construction sector. AmeyBriggs are recognised for supplying vehicles and equipment to ensure the safety of our military and managing the Ministry of Defence’s construction and material handling fleet, playing a crucial role in supporting the British Armed Forces on operations at home and overseas. Commenting on the collaboration, AmeyBriggs Managing Director Phil Crick said, “We are delighted to be a Bronze sponsoring partner with Building Heroes. As a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, we have pledged our support to the Armed Forces Community, both past and present, and are delighted that our support will help train ex-force personnel to support their future employment opportunities.”    Building Heroes is actively working with training providers in both the North and South of England to identify suitable Plant training programmes for launch later this year. These funded training programmes will cater to former military community members and service leavers in their resettlement process. The collaboration with Amey Briggs will help to provide graduates with potential employment opportunities upon completion of these specialised plant training programmes. Nicola Schneider, Head of Corporate Partnerships, expressed her enthusiasm, stating: “We are delighted to welcome AmeyBriggs as a sponsoring partner of the Building Heroes Education Foundation. The forthcoming launch of plant training programmes, with employment outcomes supported by AmeyBriggs, signifies a key step in identifying employment pathways for our graduates within the construction industry. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this collaboration will have on our Armed Forces community.” For those interested in pursuing a career in the construction and infrastructure sector, Building Heroes invites you to explore future course details, timings, and application processes. Contact info@buildingheroes.org.uk for more information. Organisations looking to enhance their teams and contribute to ESG objectives, social value, equality, diversity, and inclusion are encouraged to partner with Building Heroes. Learn more about becoming an academy, corporate charity, or employer partner at https://www.buildingheroes.org.uk/our-partners. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Roann Limited secures £20 million care home project with R G Carter

Roann Limited secures £20 million care home project with R G Carter

Wakefield-based granite and quartz worktop supplier, Roann Limited, secure high-end project with R G Carter on the new £20 million Broomfield Village Care Home in Chelmsford, Essex. Ahead of the care home’s grand opening in May 2024, Roann Limited has been tasked with supplying and installing the worktops and splashbacks for 27 kitchens within the luxury 137-bed care home complex. This high-end project, acting as the barrier between the residential developments and Broomfield Hospital, will feature 30mm of Cosentino Silestone Classic Calacatta worktops. Eternal, and distinguished in appearance, this design is timeless and familiar whilst also highly-resistant to stains making it durable for the new luxury care home. Focused on constructing an environmentally-friendly building, it was imperative that all those involved in the process supported this aim hence, choosing Roann Limited to be the worktop provider. After pursuing its own sustainable endeavours as well as recent success, 30 years of experience and £2m worth of manufacturing machinery to produce 15,000 worktops a year, Roann Limited was the superior choice to work alongside R G Carter on this project. Thrilled to be working with R G Carter on this project, Scott Wharton, Operations and Technical Director of Roann Limited commented “It is our first time partnering with the construction firm but with our similar ethics, we think it’s a perfect match. We are shortly heading to the site to begin installing our products ahead of its opening this spring. The care home is a crucial addition to the community and we are grateful that we get to be a part of it”. Despite being primarily a new-housing development supplier, Roann Limited continues to push its own boundaries by reaching out and providing its innovative range to other projects similar to that of the Broomfield Village Care Home. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Zentia set to ease acoustic design with the launch of Sonify Wall Absorbers Grid System

Zentia set to ease acoustic design with the launch of Sonify Wall Absorbers Grid System

Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, is excited to announce the official launch of its latest product, the Sonify Wall Absorbers Grid System. Launched on 10th April and building on the success of the wider Sonify range, the new gridded wall absorbers promise to elevate creative possibilities in acoustic design. Expanding on Zentia’s commitment to providing architects, interior designers, and outfitters with unparalleled flexibility, the Sonify Wall Absorbers Grid System introduces a mounted grid system for wall absorbers. This innovative approach replaces the traditional method of gluing absorbers to the wall, offering greater design precision and ease of dismounting for convenient access to services. The new Sonify Wall Absorbers Grid System offers several key features and benefits: The Sonify Wall Absorbers Grid System is set to offer professionals the tools they need to be more creative with innovative and impactful ceiling design. It is another product within a growing range that exemplifies Zentia’s commitment to creativity and innovation. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Industry analysis: Residential takes the reins as contract awards even out.

Industry analysis: Residential takes the reins as contract awards even out.

Construction contract rewards remained stable in March following a quarter which had showed a significant increase since the beginning of the year. The value of new contracts was 3% down in February and 1% down on the previous year but remained significantly above the last quarter of 2023, according to analysis from Barbour ABI. Notably, residential contracts were up 60% in February, returning to heights seen in January and were up 62% over the first quarter of the year. Meanwhile, infrastructure fell back to more normal levels following a stellar February but remained 38% up on the same month last year. A new student accommodation facility on Medlock Steet, Manchester will cost £200 million, whilst a new National Grid convertor station at Eastern Green will be built at a cost of £700 million. A new prison at HMP Gartree was also awarded at a cost of £300million. Wates will carry out the work which will commence July 2024. Barbour ABI head of business and client analytics, Ed Griffiths commented:  “When looking across the first quarter of 2024 it has become clear that both the infrastructure and residential sectors have had strong starts to the year as businesses attempt to get projects off the ground, which is a positive signal the construction sector is attempting to emerge from the doldrums of last year. “Interestingly in March, we saw Residential and Infrastructure swapping positions in terms of leading overall contract awards value with £2.4bn and £2bn respectively. Together they are pushing the industry awards upwards.” Elsewhere Healthcare projects were subdued in March following two strong months and Economic conditions continue to stagnate the Hotel and Leisure Sector Applications continue to confound recovery. Planning applications have improved in February after a weak start to the year in January but activity levels in most sectors remain low, highlighting that nervousness remains in the sector to commit to future projects ahead of potential rates cuts and upcoming elections.  Infrastructure has increased 33% since last month and remains strong against its long-term average. However, it has not returned to the highs of the end of last year. Residential applications fell once again from £3.1bn in January to £2.9bn in February. Griffithscontinued: “The enduring story of 2024 so far has been the contradiction between a rise in contracts awarded, sometimes even for projects which have not yet been fully approved, and the continued lack of confidence shown in both in new applications and approvals – which have been contracting since last November. The industry stands at a crossroads where financial and political decisions made at a national level could tip the balance in either direction.” Find out more at https://barbour-abi.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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