The Building Safety Act has been described by government as the ‘Biggest Changes to Building Safety for a Generation’. Arguably, the most impactful change at project level is the implementation of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) as the building control authority for all Higher Risk Buildings. We have identified four
More than £20m will be invested to improve the Metrolink network over the next 12 months, to ensure services remain safe and reliable for years to come. The UK’s largest light rail network has 99 stops across 64 miles of track – more than 700 million journeys have been made
Bouygues UK and Carmarthenshire County Council have marked 12 months of construction of the landmark Pentre Awel project by completing the steel structure of the first Zone of the development. The significant milestone in the project comes just a year after building work started and marks a pivotal stage of
The final concrete terracing panel has been installed to complete the structural work within the bowl of Everton Stadium. The final piece of the huge jigsaw was lowered into place in the east stand this week, ending 18-months of complex work since the first concrete terrace was positioned in August
Following the appointment of a new President for Europe, Aggreko has formalised its plans for 2024 and beyond with the launch of Energising Change, its new sustainability framework which places supporting the energy transition front and centre. Robert Wells – former Managing Director of Aggreko’s businesses across Africa, Middle East,
Commissioning machine rebuilds is already an integral part of Heidelberg Materials UK’s fleet management plan. This month the company welcomed a rebuilt Cat® 988K XE with electric drive back to its Whatley asphalt plant following a Cat Certified Powertrain Rebuild, giving it a new lease of life and many more
Installing stone is a straightforward process, but mastering it requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. However, even with the proper techniques, common pitfalls can trip you up along the way. Understanding and navigating these pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving a successful stone installation. Let’s
The East Coast Digital Programme has taken a big step forward with the renewal of infrastructure successfully commissioned that now enables the Welwyn to Hitchin (W2H) ETCS overlay to be tested and proven, with engineers having worked around the clock between 17-20 February. W2H is Britain’s first instance of infrastructure
One Vision Housing celebrates success as Conway Point development in Birkenhead receives high commendation at the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards. Located just a two-minute walk from Birkenhead town centre, the development is home to 46 Rent to Buy apartments that have created opportunities for local people to get
Railpen, manager of around £34 billion of assets on behalf of the railways pension schemes, has named Skanska and Morgan Sindall as main contractors for the first two of its major developments in Cambridge, Botanic Place, a 540,000 sq ft sustainable office scheme, and Devonshire Gardens, a 120,000 sq ft
The Building Safety Act has been described by government as the ‘Biggest Changes to Building Safety for a Generation’. Arguably, the most impactful change at project level is the implementation of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) as the building control authority for all Higher Risk Buildings. We have identified four key factors that project stakeholders need to understand about how the BSR will operate, and how it might impact on the delivery of projects under their remit. Note: the following information will be most relevant to projects in England. KEY PROJECT CONSIDERATIONS: 1.What is a Higher Risk Building (HRB)? Section 65 of the Building Safety Act 2022 states, with respect to buildings in design and construction: (1) In this Part “higher-risk building” means a building in England that – (a) is at least 18 metres in height or has at least 7 storeys, and (b) contains at least 2 residential units. Examples include residential buildings, mixed-use residential, care homes, hospitals, and student accommodation. Excluded are hotels, military barracks, prisons, and other secure residential institutions. Note: the criteria are slightly different for existing buildings. When establishing height, there are some parameters to consider: 2.Level of Scrutiny Although the BSR are focused on fire safety, which they define as spread of fire and structural failures posing a threat to life, they will have full responsibility over compliance with all parts of the building regulations, not just parts A and B. The BSR require several new documents at each of the 3 planning gateways, including construction control and phase plans, several other safety documents, and handover strategies. The BSR will essentially require a complete multi-disciplinary design, aiming for projects with no changes or variations. What this means for design and build contracts is not yet fully understood, but the type of documents the BSR requires will likely drive an increase in PCSAs being used to get to detailed designs. 3.Programme Implications It is clear that more time and effort will be required in the design stages to submit complete applications and secure the BSR’s approval. The BSR will have a 12-week statutory period to review and respond to applications. This means they will operate like other statutory parties such as planning authorities and consultees, who cannot be consulted throughout the design process and will only provide feedback once their full review is concluded. Current understanding is that all applications, clarifications, and re-submissions to the BSR will be subject to the 12-week turnaround. For example, securing approval after one round of feedback and resubmission would take in excess of 24 weeks. It is imperative that project teams account for this lengthy engagement process, making allowance for the likelihood of rejected applications, within their pre-construction programmes. To mitigate this programme (and associated cost) risk, clients/project teams are advised to retain an approved inspector as part of the consultant team to assist the design and review it for compliance prior to submitting a BSR application. It is strongly recommended that only Class 3 registered approved inspectors are engaged, as the BSR has indicated its own inspectors will be Class 3. New guidelines here: Registered building inspectors – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). 4.Cost Uncertainties Cost planning through the design stages is likely to be more uncertain because the scope, materiality, and methodology cannot be fully frozen until final approval by the BSR is secured. Typically, the design and costs would undergo an element of value engineering as a project progresses through the stages. Project teams will either need to allow for those exercises at design freeze, prior to BSR application; or run the risk of needing to re-submit and wait a further 12 weeks for subsequent approvals. This new protracted route to design approval, driven by the BSR’s strict application and response process, will manifest a slower and more expensive pre-construction journey. Clients and project owners will need to account for this in business cases and project briefs; and may find that projects on the borderline of viability are harder to justify as a result. Finally, while only a small part of the overall costs of any significant project, there is also inherent uncertainty of the BSR’s fees. There is an up-front £180 to be paid at the time of application, with BSR inspectors then charging £144 per hour spent reviewing applications. Forecasting these fees will be difficult, and only time will tell how the BSR will justify and seek to recover those fees. Watts are currently delivering projects that fall under the BSR’s remit, and we have a good understanding of how to meet the BSR’s needs so that you can plan accordingly. Please get in touch with our dedicated team at Watts should you need support navigating this new landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
More than £20m will be invested to improve the Metrolink network over the next 12 months, to ensure services remain safe and reliable for years to come. The UK’s largest light rail network has 99 stops across 64 miles of track – more than 700 million journeys have been made on the trams since opening in 1992. The £21.4m funding – from the government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) – will ensure the network keeps on delivering safe, reliable and accessible services for millions more people into the future. Approved by the Bee Network committee on Thursday, the work is part of a planned £147m package to maintain, upgrade and improve the network up to 2027. Immediate priorities for this summer include track replacement in several parts of the city centre, including Piccadilly Gardens and London Road, and on parts of the Altrincham and Bury Lines. This will mean quicker, smoother and more reliable journeys for passengers. Plans also include a programme of modifications to the trams themselves, installing state-of-the art systems to keep passengers safe. These include sensors in the middle of double trams and speed warning devices. New electrical substations are being added along parts of the Bury Line, providing additional power so that more doubles trams run in future. Metrolink is also replacing much of the communications network critical to the operation of its signalling and control systems. TfGM is also looking into the replacement of overhead lines on some of the older parts of the network such as the Bury Line, which caused several prolonged disruptions in 2023. Long-term benefits to passengers include better reliability and an improved experience for customers. The work will mean some short-term disruption, which will be planned to minimise inconvenience to passengers. Information about service changes and replacement bus services will be available well in advance of the work. Metrolink passenger numbers are back to pre-pandemic levels during the weekday peak times and even busier on weekends. With 130,000 journeys on an average weekday, work on the network is planned carefully to keep disruption to a minimum. Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, said: “Metrolink is an integral part of the Bee Network, and it’s really important that we invest in it so that we can continue to provide a safe, reliable and positive experience for the thousands of people who travel with us every day. “This is a coordinated package of planned works to maintain, renew and improve the network and help to keep Greater Manchester moving, and while we understand any disruption can be frustrating, we’ll be doing everything we can to keep it to a minimum. “We will make sure passengers know what’s happening well in advance and I’d ask people to please bear with us while the works are carried out, as the benefits will be there to be enjoyed for years to come.” Upcoming works include: Further works are planned to take place throughout this – and subsequent – years. For full details of tram improvement works planned for this year, visit tfgm.com/tram-improvement-works Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bouygues UK and Carmarthenshire County Council have marked 12 months of construction of the landmark Pentre Awel project by completing the steel structure of the first Zone of the development. The significant milestone in the project comes just a year after building work started and marks a pivotal stage of the build. The multi-million-pound development is being delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council. It will bring together life science and business innovation, community healthcare and modern leisure facilities at the 83-acre Delta Lakes site on the Llanelli coastline. It is part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal (£40million) and is the largest regeneration scheme in south west Wales. Lead contractor on Zone 1, Bouygues UK is dedicated to using local subcontractors as part of its commitment to provide employment, training and skills opportunities to local people and underrepresented groups. Dyfed Steels provided the reinforcement bar for the project’s foundations which has 98% recycled content, and the structural steel for the building which has 80% recycled content, was supplied by Shufflebottom. With a commitment to the heritage of the area, the steel frame also provides the historical link to the previous industrial buildings that were located on the site, namely the South Wales Tinplate Works and the Richard Thomas (Tinplate) Mills. Peter Sharpe, Bouygues UK’s Pentre Awel Project Director, said the completion of the steel structure marks a significant milestone in the project: “In just 12 months the site has been transformed as the development has rapidly taken shape. The completion of the steel frames for all buildings has been a key activity during this period. The hydrotherapy, learner and main pools have been cast and successfully undergone water testing ready for the next stage.” Cllr. Hazel Evans, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Culture, Leisure and Tourism said, “It is remarkable how far construction has come in just a year. Bouygues UK have shown their dedication to the Pentre Awel masterplan, not only through their outstanding engagement with local schools, but by employing Carmarthenshire businesses to undertake the work on site. The community is truly at the heart of Pentre Awel, I congratulate everyone involved in the construction of Zone 1 and I look forward to opening.” As well as Shufflebottom and Dyfed Steels, other local companies contracted to work on Pentre Awel include: Green4Wales, Redsix Partnership, Gavin Griffiths Group, Davies Crane Hire, Dyfed Recycling Services and Owen Haulage. As part of Bouygues UK’s commitment to provide significant social value and engagement to surrounding schools, colleges and universities, Pentre Awel also has a school ambassadors scheme, where children from local schools visit the site to share their ideas and help shape the project. A broader programme of community benefits is also being delivered during the development of Zone 1 of Pentre Awel to realise social, economic, cultural, and environmental benefits. This includes targeted recruitment and training, community engagement (such as community ambassadors), STEM activities and supply chain engagement. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The final concrete terracing panel has been installed to complete the structural work within the bowl of Everton Stadium. The final piece of the huge jigsaw was lowered into place in the east stand this week, ending 18-months of complex work since the first concrete terrace was positioned in August 2022. And with all 1,988 double-stepped units now installed, on schedule, all four stands of the stadium are intact. Gareth Jacques, Laing O’Rourke’s Project Director, confirmed: “Structurally, that is the stadium bowl complete. “When you consider that alongside the terracing, the team have also done the structural steel and precast concrete in the four stands, it is a fantastic achievement. “Because we use modern methods of construction and need to fix our design to go to fabrication early, the team worked really hard in the early stages of the project. “The rate of progress we have achieved within the stadium meant that we were nearly 40% ready to go with precast components when we took possession of the site, so it’s been a great piece of work and a great product from our supply chain partner Banagher, in Ireland.” The terrace units, averaging just under 9.5 tonnes in weight, have each been meticulously lifted into place over the past 18 months, secured with a high-strength grout and then made weatherproof with a special sealant. And the installation of the bespoke, double-stepped units – ranging from 0.73m to 14m in length – is a first for Laing O’Rourke, who pivoted from more traditional single-stepped blocks due to a combination of factors. Jacques explained: “The double-stepped units are something we haven’t done before. In previous stadiums we have built, it has been a single-step arrangement, but there are a few reasons for developing the new method here. “One was that we were always aware of the exposed location of the site, and plenty of our engineered solutions have been done to reduce the risk of weather and lifting. “The double-stepped terracing significantly reduces the amount of lifts needed and cuts down the time working on site, often at heights. “The by-product is that when you are building a football stadium, all the internal works and fit-out are generally underneath the terracing, so getting weathertight is on the critical path. “The infill joints are really important and here at Everton we have 33km of Mastic sealant within the bowl, so by having double-stepped units we need less of that too.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the appointment of a new President for Europe, Aggreko has formalised its plans for 2024 and beyond with the launch of Energising Change, its new sustainability framework which places supporting the energy transition front and centre. Robert Wells – former Managing Director of Aggreko’s businesses across Africa, Middle East, & Asia Pacific and head of global events– has been appointed by the business as European President as well as retaining responsibility for Global Events. With a focus on enabling European customers to access new, greener technologies to support with their decarbonisation process, Wells is set to embed the Energising Change framework in the region. Energising Change shapes how Aggreko works both internally and alongside its diverse portfolio of customers across the world. It allows Aggreko and the companies it works with – from a wide range of sectors with varying requirements – to embed low-carbon power and temperature control technologies and more efficient ways of working. The framework forms a core part of the business’s proposition in a time when clearer action is needed to balance energy resilience, economic viability and action on climate. Central to the framework is a series of major investments that give industry more immediate access to cleaner and greener energy sources, such as the expansion of its fleet of small, mid and large-size battery energy storage solutions (BESS). BESS, giving energy intensive sectors such as manufacturing, data centres and construction the opportunity to integrate cleaner power sources on site, in addition to providing vital resilience, an area that is increasing in importance for companies across Europe. They will also play a key role in decarbonising the European construction sector, which is typically reliant on diesel power, though hybridised applications. The latest investment is part of the over $140m earmarked in 2023 and 2024 to expand Aggreko’s Greener Upgrades™ fleet, which included new boilers, Stage V generation, batteries and chillers. Aggreko will use these investments to support the decarbonisation of many of its key sectors such as manufacturing, PCR. Events, construction and data centres. The approach is already being evidenced in projects across the continent including a refinery in Romania where using a Greener Upgrade solution has already reduced carbon emissions, waste and operating costs by a substantial amount. The hybrid solution of solar photovoltaic and combined heat and power recovers waste heat from exhaust gases and uses a gas byproduct from the company’s process and produces electricity for the grid and onsite operations. Energy resilience is another core driver of Energising Change, reflecting a world where high energy costs and grid limitations continue present a challenge to economic development. Supporting energy intensive sectors such as manufacturing, construction and data centres, the company is set to continue work with customers to introduce solutions which improve onsite resilience in addition to reducing environmental impact as they transition to a renewable energy model. Energising Change builds on Aggreko’s reputation as a provider of bridging energy solutions. The new framework commits to supporting the move to renewables by using temporary solutions to support the construction and commissioning of tomorrows energy systems. Working with key construction customers, Aggreko has been able to trial the use of BESS in conjunction with alternative fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to see emissions and fuel consumption reductions of 45%. Commitment to being energy efficiency also forms part of the framework, with the company expanding its approach to digitalisation via remote monitoring and data analysis services. This will ensure equipment is running optimally, no matter where it’s deployed. Robert Wells, Europe President at Aggreko, added: “Energising Change explains our vision, purpose and objectives. It sets targets and creates action for our business and signals to customers we are committed to positive change that’s delivered pragmatically. As the focus on building resilience and making the renewable energy transition intensifies, Aggreko is committed to continuing its support of customers across Europe.” For more information on Energising Change, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commissioning machine rebuilds is already an integral part of Heidelberg Materials UK’s fleet management plan. This month the company welcomed a rebuilt Cat® 988K XE with electric drive back to its Whatley asphalt plant following a Cat Certified Powertrain Rebuild, giving it a new lease of life and many more hours of operating capability. The electric drive machine has been operating at the plant in Somerset since 2018 when the company bought it from Finning, the world’s largest dealer of Cat equipment and parts. It was purchased with one of the top-level warranty packages offered by Finning, which included a full servicing and maintenance programme and remote asset condition monitoring so any faults could be identified and fixed before the machine is at risk of failure. As the machine began to reach 18,000 hours, the operational team began discussions with Finning to identify the best solution for replacement that fulfilled both the company’s commercial needs and sustainability objectives. Having had a full service and maintenance programme meant the machine was in good condition to be rebuilt. “Finning guided us through the process of comparing the benefits of buying a new machine with having the machine rebuild instead,” explained Luke Morgan, Fleet Manager for Heidelberg Materials UK. “We carefully considered all the benefits and concluded that the rebuild was the best option for us at this time. Doing so not only supports our company-wide commitment to sustainability and enables us to reduce our carbon footprint, but crucially, choosing to have the machine rebuilt also meant we could have it back operating on-site within 12-weeks. Finning was also able to provide a five-year warranty giving us reassurance that the machine will continue to operate effectively during its next life.” The Cat 988K XE was first launched in the UK in 2017 and is the first wheel loader from Caterpillar® fitted with an electric drive. It makes use of switched reluctance technology –an electric motor that runs by reluctance torque, and is equipped with a powerful Caterpillar engine, providing up to 579 horsepower enabling the operator to drive the machine at up to 40km per hour. It also provides optimised performance and serviceability, allowing operators to move material on site efficiently and safely at a lower cost per tonne. The 988K XE also emits up to 37% less CO2 an hour than its predecessor – the Cat 988K – and 45% less CO2 per tonne of material used. In 2022, Cat launched an upgraded version of the Cat 988K XE. The newer version can deliver up to 10% faster downhill speeds, improved rim pull, and increased hydraulic breakout force resulting in a further increase in productivity on the previous model of around 5%. The latest version also improves cycle times in load and carry applications and offers faster manoeuvrability as a result of having an optional counterweight which increases stability. Mark Tudball, Engine & Drivetrain Product Manager at Finning explains the additional benefits of choosing a rebuild for this machine: “The electric drive transmission in the Cat 988K XE means there are fewer moving parts than on a manual transmission. This means there are less components – around 20% fewer – and therefore less moving parts to recondition and replace as part of the rebuild process. “Although there are more electrical inspections needed once the rebuild is done, a large proportion of the electrical components, such as the power inverter and drive motors, can be removed from the original machine and reused making it a more circular, sustainable option for customers. Caterpillar reuse and salvage guidelines ensure we can offer a second life to components if they pass this process. “A further advantage is that the rebuilt machine benefits from having the latest engineering updates, which may include parts or electronic software. So despite being built originally in 2017, the rebuilt machine has the same functionality and performance of the later 2022 model, ensuring maximum longevity and efficiency.” “Rebuilding the latest technologically advanced machines shows a rebuild is not purely for older machines, the rebuild offering is aligned with newer technologies and is moving with the times to ensure the latest new machines sold have a rebuild solution in place when needed”. Gary Huxley, Product Support Sales Manager at Finning, said: “Managing machines throughout their operational life is a key part of Heidelberg Materials UK’s fleet management approach. We’ve worked with the company for more than 20 years with Cat machines making up a large proportion of its total fleet. “They typically take advantage of the engineering support and warranty packages we offer to ensure their machines are maintained and serviced and kept operating effectively, while minimising unexpected downtime. “Rebuilt machines are becoming a mainstay in the company’s fleet. Between 2021 and 2023 they have had 14 machines rebuilt, including a Cat 988K that had a Cat Certified Powertrain rebuild at 17,000 hours and is still going strong at 28,600, and a Cat 988H which has been rebuilt several times and is still operating with 47,000 hours on the clock. The company has also previously commissioned rebuilds of a Cat 972, five Cat 980s and seven Cat 775s. “The success of previous rebuilds was certainly a factor in their decision to choose to have this latest machine rebuilt and they have already commissioned the rebuild of their second Cat 988K XE machine operating at the asphalt plant in Whatley.” Luke Morgan, Fleet Manager for Heidelberg Materials UK, said: “Sustainability is at the heart of our operations. We have set ourselves ambitious targets and we are already making significant gains, having reduced our operational CO2 emissions by more than 50% since 1990.” “ We’re always looking for new processes and technologies that will enable our transport and heavy equipment fleet to be more efficient. A big part of this is increasing the use of products that have a lower carbon footprint.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Installing stone is a straightforward process, but mastering it requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. However, even with the proper techniques, common pitfalls can trip you up along the way. Understanding and navigating these pitfalls can make all the difference in achieving a successful stone installation. Let’s explore the essential strategies and potential stumbling blocks that can impact your next project. What is Stone Installation? To create beautiful and durable surfaces in various spaces, stone installation involves carefully placing and securing stone materials, such as marble, granite, or limestone. As you embark on this task, it’s essential to start by preparing the surface where the stones will be placed. Ensuring the area is clean, level, and free of debris will lay a solid foundation for a successful installation. If you’re looking for marble restoration services in Sydney, it’s crucial to prioritize proper surface preparation to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of your marble surfaces. Next, you’ll need to determine the layout of the stones, considering factors like size, shape, and color coordination. This step is crucial in achieving a visually appealing result that meets your client’s expectations. Once the layout is planned, you can apply the adhesive or mortar to secure the stones. Always align each piece accurately, maintaining consistent spacing throughout the installation process. Best Practices To Keep in Mind When Performing Stone Installation 1. Prioritize Proper Surface Preparation When performing stone installation, always prioritize proper surface preparation to ensure a solid foundation for the project. Here are the steps you can take to prepare the surface: 2. Check for Levelness Use appropriate leveling tools such as bubble levels, laser levels, or straightedges to assess the levelness of the surface. Place the level across different substrate points to identify uneven areas or deviations from the horizontal plane. 3. Use the Right Adhesive or Mortar Ensure compatibility between the adhesive and the stone material, considering factors such as porosity, weight, and environmental conditions. Ensure you follow manufacturer guidelines for mixing ratios, application techniques, and curing times to achieve optimal adhesion and long-term installation durability. 4. Laying and Cutting the Stones Pay attention to spacing and alignment as you lay the stones to create a professional finish. When cutting stones to fit, measure twice and cut once to avoid unnecessary waste. Common Pitfalls to Avoid During Stone Installation The importance of proper stone veneer installation cannot be overstated. To ensure a successful stone installation, steer clear of these common pitfalls. 1. Insufficient Surface Preparation Skipping or inadequately performing surface preparation can lead to poor adhesion, uneven surfaces, and premature failure of the installation. Ensure thorough substrate cleaning, leveling, and repair before installing. 2. Incorrect Adhesive Selection Using the wrong type of adhesive or mortar can compromise the bonding strength and durability of the installation. Choose adhesives or mortars specifically formulated for the type of stone installed and the substrate material, considering factors such as porosity, weight, and environmental conditions. 3. Improper Joint Sizing and Spacing Inadequate attention to joint sizing and spacing can result in unsightly gaps, uneven alignment, and potential structural issues. Follow manufacturer recommendations and industry standards for determining appropriate joint sizes and spacing based on the size and type of stone being installed. 4. Inadequate Support and Reinforcement Ensure that the substrate is structurally sound and capable of supporting the weight of the stones, and consider additional reinforcement measures such as metal or fiberglass mesh for large or vertically oriented installations. 5. Poor Water Management Neglecting to address water management issues such as drainage, waterproofing, and moisture control can result in water damage, mold growth, and deterioration of the installation over time. Implement proper waterproofing measures on slope surfaces for adequate drainage and install moisture barriers as needed to prevent water infiltration and ensure the longevity of the stone installation. Conclusion In conclusion, mastering stone installation requires attention to detail and proper techniques. You can ensure a successful and durable installation by following best practices and avoiding common pitfalls. Remember to properly prepare the surface, use the right tools, and take your time to achieve a high-quality result. With practice and patience, you can become a skilled stone installer and create beautiful, long-lasting designs for your clients.
The East Coast Digital Programme has taken a big step forward with the renewal of infrastructure successfully commissioned that now enables the Welwyn to Hitchin (W2H) ETCS overlay to be tested and proven, with engineers having worked around the clock between 17-20 February. W2H is Britain’s first instance of infrastructure commissioning towards a ‘no signals’ intercity mainline. The overlay is a critical part of ECDP’s delivery plan. To achieve the end goal of a ‘no signals’ railway on the southern part of the East Coast Main Line, it is necessary to create a section of the route that can be operated with both conventional and digital signalling. Drivers from all ECML operators will progressively be trained to drive in ETCS through the W2H overlay. Once all fleets are upgraded and all drivers trained, the progressive roll out of digital signalling throughout ECML (South) can rapidly follow. The W2H overlay will be a key enabler not just for ECDP but for the wider roll out of ETCS across the GB network. W2H commissioning has involved a ‘lite’ resignalling in preparation for system proving of the ETCS system. A new proving desk and Radio Block Centre will be put in place in York ROC, to enable the first overnight proving trains to operate from spring 2024. It is expected that migration to ETCS operations on passenger and freight services through the overlay section will begin in 2025. The W2H resignalling lite has included existing assets moving to Westrace Trackside System equipment, introducing three new Trackguard Westlock interlockings and associated infrastructure, trackside fringe alterations at Hatfield, Biggleswade, Hertford and Letchworth, and renewing the existing train detection with axle counters. Power works took place in the form of introduction of three new principal supply point feeders and replacing seven existing 650v feeders. Ed Akers, Principal Programme Sponsor for the East Coast Digital Programme, said: “This is a major milestone for the project and I’m incredibly proud of everyone involved in reaching this point. The East Coast Digital Programme will deliver major upgrades for passengers as they travel by train in the future. “To reach this point and to implement digital signalling on the East Coast Main Line has meant a huge amount of collaboration between Network Rail, train operators, and other rail industry stakeholders through our unique industry partnership. “While commissioning Welwyn to Hitchin is a key enabler for the East Coast Digital Programme, it is also a significant step towards the rollout of digital signalling across the network.” Ben Lane, Project Director for Siemens Mobility & Infrastructure Sector Lead ECDP, said: “This delivery is a great testament of the 500+ tenacious people we had on various sites that ensured the safe completion of this programme of works. We can now start a period of system proving, getting us closer to a ‘no signals’ digital railway that will reduce future renewals and maintenances costs, improve reliability for passenger and freight services on the route and provide better return on investment of taxpayers’ money.” A spokesperson on behalf of passenger train operators said: “Our teams have been working hard over the last four days to keep passengers on the move and to get them to their destination as quickly as possible. “We know that changes to services are never ideal and we want to thank our passengers for their patience while Network Rail carried out this vital work.” Maggie Simpson OBE, Director General, Rail Freight Group, said: “It is great to see real progress being made in ETCS development on the East Coast Main Line, with collaboration between freight operating companies, Network Rail and other partners ensuring that the solutions work for rail freight customers. This is a key step towards full deployment and we look forward to seeing further progress in coming months.” The first stage of ECDP is the Northern City Line (NCL) pathfinder project. This also involves an overlay between Finsbury Park and Moorgate on which Great Northern drivers are progressively being trained to drive in ETCS. After a series of proving runs and regulatory approvals, the first digitally signalled passenger train operated in November 2023. Currently around a quarter of NCL trains are being operated in ETCS and it is expected that the NCL will be a ‘no signals’ railway from early 2025. The NCL pathfinder is enabling the ECDP to ‘learn by doing’ and the experience being gained by the cross-industry collaboration will be invaluable to the effective delivery of digital signalling on the mainline, starting with W2H. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One Vision Housing celebrates success as Conway Point development in Birkenhead receives high commendation at the YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards. Located just a two-minute walk from Birkenhead town centre, the development is home to 46 Rent to Buy apartments that have created opportunities for local people to get onto the property ladder. The YM Liverpool Property & Business Awards’ judging panel said: “We are pleased to recognise Conway Point as highly commended in the Best Affordable Housing Scheme category.” “One Vision Housing’s commitment to a fabric-first approach with this development displays a progressive strategy which prioritises sustainability and energy efficiency. The scheme also helps to address a very pressing need for affordable housing solutions in the local area, offering residents an opportunity to secure a place in the community they call home.” they added. One Vision Housing provides over 13.6k homes across the North West and as part of The Sovini Group, is delivering over 1,000 high quality affordable homes across the next five years through its integrated supply chain. Built on brownfield land by Sovini Construction, Conway Point was designed with modern living in mind by Condy Lofthouse Architects and was constructed using a ‘fabric first’ approach that focuses on the reduction of energy consumption, through thermal efficiency and running costs. Apartments all feature environmentally efficient specifications, supplied by local independent building merchant, Sovini Trade Supplies, including toilets, taps, showers, and light fittings, contributing towards the Group’s net-zero carbon commitment. Ian Mitchell, Managing Director of Housing at The Sovini Group said: “Our Conway Point development has delivered our [The Sovini] Group’s vision of a better future, as we created opportunities and changed lives by helping local people take their first step into home ownership. We are grateful to the judges for recognising this impact and look forward to seeing our customers thrive in their homes for years to come.” In addition to delivering 46 new affordable homes, The Conway Point development generated £2.3m in social value, £1.2m in economic value and £70k in environmental value. James Flannery, Director of Construction and Land said: “We are thrilled that our Conway Point development has been highly commended at the YM Liverpool Property and Business Awards for its energy efficient design, as we continue to embrace renewable technologies with an environmentally friendly approach to construction.” “Building a better future for One Vision Housing’s customers by creating sustainable social impact and transforming local communities has and will continue to be central to all our operations.” he added. To learn more about The Sovini Group’s integrated supply chain, please visit sovini.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Railpen, manager of around £34 billion of assets on behalf of the railways pension schemes, has named Skanska and Morgan Sindall as main contractors for the first two of its major developments in Cambridge, Botanic Place, a 540,000 sq ft sustainable office scheme, and Devonshire Gardens, a 120,000 sq ft mixed-use development. Both projects are being developed by Socius on behalf of Railpen. Skanska, one of the UK’s leading contractors, has secured the £200 million contract to build Botanic Place, which is set to be the most sustainable speculative office scheme outside of London. Architect AHMM has designed the buildings to achieve BREEAM Outstanding, WELL and Wired Scored ‘Platinum’ ratings. The workspaces will prioritise energy efficiency to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer while using 70% less energy than traditional office buildings, and will be powered using renewable energy sources. Inspired by the nearby Cambridge University Botanic Garden, which can be viewed from the offices, the buildings’ quality and specification will be market defining. The project will also involve preserving the historic public house, The Flying Pig, which is located on the development site, and the creation of 15,000 sq ft of internal amenities, events, and F&B space, alongside 40,000 sq ft of terraces on multiple levels for both private and communal uses. Elsewhere in Cambridge, Railpen has also appointed Morgan Sindall, the British construction and regeneration group, to construct Devonshire Gardens, in a £77 million contract. Devonshire Gardens will comprise a new community connected by a landscaped park, supporting Railpen’s vision to create a majority car-free neighbourhood. Located in the heart of Mill Road, Morgan Sindall will deliver up to 150,000 sq ft of commercial space, 70 apartments, 8,500 sq ft of F&B space, and 1.55 acres of public open spaces. Richard Van Lente, Senior Asset and Development Manager at Railpen, said: “The appointment of both Skanska and Morgan Sindall marks a significant moment within our Cambridge portfolio as we work to deliver best-in-class assets and generate strong long-term returns for our members. We look forward to witnessing these projects come to fruition and continuing our long-lasting commitment to Cambridge with support from the council and key local stakeholders.” Doug Higgins, Development Director at Socius, also commented: “Botanic Place and Devonshire Gardens will be fantastic additions to the community of Cambridge, with Skanska and Morgan Sindall driving forward our shared vision with Railpen to deliver inspiring, sustainable and valuable assets for the city. With their expertise and proficiency, we are on track to provide a new benchmark for other developers and investors to follow, paving the way for an enhanced future within Cambridge and the wider area.” Morgan Sindall is set to begin works on Devonshire Gardens in April, and Skanska is due to start on-site at Botanic Place in July, with estimated completion dates of April 2026 and March 2027 respectively. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
