Broadgate REIT, equally owned by British Land and GIC, has announced a landmark joint venture with Abu Dhabi-based Modon Holding. This partnership will spearhead the development of 2 Finsbury Avenue, a 750,000 sq ft world-class project set to redefine the Broadgate area in the City of London. The development will
Landmark Port Hamilton building redesign to become one of Capital’s largest ever pre-letting deals Lloyds Banking Group has announced plans to transform its Port Hamilton building in Edinburgh city centre into a state-of-the-art innovation hub as part of a £200 million redesign led by Drum Property Group. In what will
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and construction of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects has announced the completion of The Bath House, an iconic Build-to-Rent (BTR) development in the centre of Birmingham. The project, delivered for Edmond de Rothschild Real
Around half of construction professionals now use AI at work – and almost all of them say it’s been a force for good. New research from The Access Group shows that 52% of construction professionals surveyed use the technology, which saves them, on average, just under three hours a week.
Marking a significant step in the government’s growth mission, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, together with some of the sector’s leading FTSE 100 and privately owned companies including AstraZeneca, GSK, Airbus and AVEVA, investors, and Britain’s top universities, have welcomed a plan to double the economy of the
Discount retailer Savers has announced ambitious plans to open 32 new stores across the UK in 2025. Known for offering a wide range of health, household, toiletries, and beauty products, the company is actively seeking locations in retail parks, high streets, and shopping centres to expand its footprint. Savers is
Civil engineering tender prices increased by an average of 1% in the final quarter of 2024, according to a panel newly established by the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). The BCIS Civil Engineering TPI panel has been formed to advise on the latest movement in tender prices, i.e. prices agreed
The UK construction industry saw a 15% increase in contract awards in 2024, reaching £79.5 billion, according to Barbour ABI. The biggest regional gain was seen in the East of England at 52% whilst the North East fell the most by 20%. However, the surge in spending was driven largely
THE recent expansion of the University of Southampton’s Jubilee Sports Centre, designed by AJ100 practice GT3 Architects, is bringing an elevated sport, leisure, and wellbeing experience to students and residents alike. The £24.7m expansion of the existing sports facility includes a fitness suite with more than 200 stations – making
The Met Office’s ‘danger to life’ red warning ahead of the arrival of Storm Eowyn in the UK is another reminder of the importance of constructing roofs which can withstand extreme weather conditions, says insulation specialist Actis. Warnings that wind gusts of up to 100mph could see roofs blown off
Broadgate REIT, equally owned by British Land and GIC, has announced a landmark joint venture with Abu Dhabi-based Modon Holding. This partnership will spearhead the development of 2 Finsbury Avenue, a 750,000 sq ft world-class project set to redefine the Broadgate area in the City of London. The development will feature two iconic high-rise towers, a 36-storey East Tower and a 21-storey West Tower, connected by a 12-storey podium. At its heart will be a 7,000 sq ft winter garden, offering green spaces, leisure areas, and publicly accessible facilities, making it a standout addition to the London skyline. Construction is already in progress under the leadership of Sir Robert McAlpine, with completion anticipated in 2027. Notably, the project has secured a major pre-let agreement with Citadel and Citadel Securities, leasing a minimum of 261,000 sq ft of workspace with options for an additional 121,000 sq ft, achieving record rental rates for the City. The development places sustainability at its core. Once completed, it will be a fully electric, smart-enabled building, ensuring operational energy efficiency and aligning with the growing demand for sustainable office spaces in London. H.E. Jassem Mohammed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Chairman of Modon Holding, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, calling it a key milestone in Modon’s international growth strategy. Bill O’Regan, Group CEO of Modon Holding, highlighted the project’s exceptional quality and potential, describing it as a compelling entry into London’s prime real estate market. Simon Carter, Chief Executive of British Land, commented, “This partnership with Modon demonstrates confidence in both Broadgate and the City. With limited supply forecasted in 2027, this project is well-positioned to meet high demand for premium office space, driving strong rental growth.” This exciting collaboration underscores the enduring appeal of London’s real estate market and showcases innovative approaches to urban development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Landmark Port Hamilton building redesign to become one of Capital’s largest ever pre-letting deals Lloyds Banking Group has announced plans to transform its Port Hamilton building in Edinburgh city centre into a state-of-the-art innovation hub as part of a £200 million redesign led by Drum Property Group. In what will be one of Edinburgh’s largest ever pre-letting deals, the complex will become Lloyds Banking Group’s main base in Scotland following completion of the works in 2027. Lying at the heart of the city’s financial district, the 282,000 sq. ft. Port Hamilton building has been home to Scottish Widows for almost 30 years. It is one of Edinburgh’s landmark office buildings, reaching up to eight storeys with a distinctive curved roof. In an innovative deal structure, Drum will assume control of the property and take responsibility for redeveloping the building as part of a forward funding agreement. Port Hamilton will remain the head office for the pensions and investments business as Drum has also concluded a pre-letting agreement with Lloyds Banking Group which will see the firm enter a 21-year lease after the transformation works are expected to be completed in 2027. Welcoming the redevelopment deal, Graeme Bone, Group Managing Director, Drum Property Group, said: “The £200m redevelopment of Port Hamilton presents an exceptional opportunity for Lloyds Banking Group to upgrade and enhance one of Edinburgh’s landmark buildings and deliver an exceptional working environment for Lloyds colleagues in an unrivalled city centre location. We are particularly proud of securing one of Edinburgh’s largest ever office pre-letting deals. The level of investment, structure and net-zero objectives of the Port Hamilton redevelopment sends out a very strong message for the future of the city centre office market. It also marks another exciting addition to our proven track record in delivering major office facilities for both corporate and government occupiers.” As the UK’s largest digital bank, Lloyds Banking Group employs around 10,000 people in Edinburgh across a range of different parts of the company, including customer-facing, finance and technology roles from software engineering and data science to cyber security. The Port Hamilton redevelopment is part of Lloyds Banking Group’s wider drive to create a more sustainable office footprint across the UK and contribute to its net zero goal. It follows the full refurbishment of its Bristol office in 2022 and a move to the most energy-efficient office building in Leeds last year. Chira Barua, CEO of Scottish Widows, said:“The fintech scene in Scotland is buzzing and we’re committed to staying right in the centre of it. We’ve made huge progress in connecting customers with their financial futures and we’re starting to see how powerful digital engagement and gamification will be in the future. There’s huge potential to help make a real difference for our customers’ lives and we’re right out in front building all the parts we need to innovate in a massive way.” Sharon Doherty, Chief People & Places Officer, Lloyds Banking Group, said:“We want to create a more modern and sustainable workspace in Edinburgh where our colleagues enjoy working so that we’re in the best place to serve our 27 million customers in more ways with the things that matter to them.” HSBC Asset Management advised the building owners on the transaction, noting they weredelighted to conclude the agreements to enable this significant redevelopment project. In concluding the Port Hamilton transaction, Knight Frank acted as commercial property agents for Hamilton Prop Co. Ltd. whilst CBRE acted for Lloyds Banking Group. Drum’s legal advisors were Morton Fraser and MacRoberts, Pinset Masons represented Lloyds Banking Group and Brodies acted for Hamilton Prop Co. Ltd. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and construction of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects has announced the completion of The Bath House, an iconic Build-to-Rent (BTR) development in the centre of Birmingham. The project, delivered for Edmond de Rothschild Real Estate Investment Management (REIM), has been designed to exemplify modern urban living and offers 406 quality, purpose-built apartments on the historic site of the former Kent Street Swimming Baths. Designed by Glenn Howells Architects and engineered by Hexa Consulting Limited, this landmark scheme consists of four residential blocks ranging from seven to 18 storeys, comprising a mix of 1, 2 and 3-bed studios as well as 3-bed duplex apartments. Offering impressive views of Birmingham’s dynamic cityscape, the tallest tower fully overlooks the local area, highlighting its innovative design and sustainable construction features. Despite the unique logistical challenges posted by the site’s compact central location – with roads bordering the development on all sides – Winvic’s expertise in delivering similar developments ensured a smooth delivery. Modernity is prioritised in every aspect of construction, with the buildings incorporating reinforced in-situ concrete frames, and a striking façade of brick-slip panels. The site is further enhanced by a timber-framed hub external amenity area, which complements the building’s sustainable design. This space is designed to host activities like outdoor yoga, an external cinema and other covered-events for the residential community. With a 20,000 sq ft landscaped central courtyard, multiple amenity spaces for residents, 10,000 sq ft of ground floor commercial units, and basement parking for 95 vehicles as well as storage for 406 bicycles, The Bath House is more than a building, but a thriving community within a community. The Bath House received national recognition from the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) National Site Awards in 2024 and won the Social Value Impact Award in BTR in this year’s prestigious Love to Rent Awards. These accolades celebrate the project’s Social Value Plan developed to meet Birmingham City Council’s (BCC) highest priorities of training and employment to address the city’s high youth unemployment rate. During construction, Winvic created an extraordinary 7,993 employment and training weeks for local people, surpassing BCC’s Employment & Skills Plan targets. This included new entrant and graduate employment opportunities, apprenticeships and work experience placements. By joining forces with multiple subcontract partners and BCC’s Employment Access Team (EAT), Winvic also enabled 54 apprentices to gain valuable hands-on experience, while almost 500 Birmingham residents worked on the project. In addition to workforce development, Winvic engaged 235 young people through nine curriculum-based engagement activities with local schools and colleges – including Ark St Albans, City Academy, Walsall College and King Edward School – and donated over 50-hours and more than £30,000 to support community projects, such as Tabor Living project, Father Hudson’s Care, and supporting the UKRO challenge. Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-room at Winvic, said: “The Bath House goes beyond offering high-quality living spaces. This vibrant community redefines urban living with its shared spaces and ground-floor commercial units that will further enhance the Kent Street area, contributing to Birmingham’s regeneration. “I’d like to thank Edmond de Rothschild, the entire Winvic team, and our supply chain partners who contributed to the successful delivery of The Bath House. This development stands as a testament to Winvic’s commitment to shaping the future of city living while creating valuable employment and training opportunities for local residents and young people.” James Whidborne, Head of Residential Fund Management (UK), added: “At 406 apartments The Bath House is now our largest scheme and testament to our conviction to deliver good quality but affordable housing across the UK. We’re confident the Bath House will be a catalyst for yet further regeneration across southern Birmingham and with the arrival of HS2 these are exciting times for the UK’s “second city”. Winvic have been an exemplary construction partner, allowing us the confidence to invest in a project of this scale.” For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit X (Formally Twitter) @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Around half of construction professionals now use AI at work – and almost all of them say it’s been a force for good. New research from The Access Group shows that 52% of construction professionals surveyed use the technology, which saves them, on average, just under three hours a week. Around 94% believe it has positively impacted their workplace, and 83% say it’s improved standards. The Access Group surveyed employees in 12 industries and professions – and found that half use AI today. Tech professionals are leading the way at 74%, then HR at 68%, while those in the not-for-profit, and health and social care sectors ranked lowest at 29% and 30% respectively. Construction sector employees cited reduced workloads as AI’s biggest benefit, followed by cost savings and improved productivity. Top five benefits of AI in construction: ChatGPT is the most popular AI tool, used by around 57% of respondents. Just over 65% also say generative AI tools, like ChatGPT, have helped to relieve stress or anxiety about their jobs. Alex Boury, General Manager at Access Construction, part of The Access Group, said: “Tools like ChatGPT can help speed up routine tasks like writing emails. But advanced tools, including construction-specific ERP systems, such as Access Coins, use AI and big-data processing to securely analyse huge amounts of data to help with cost forecasting, CVR and resource allocation. AI has the potential to be transformative to the sector, driving better decisions and providing insights to help companies build better across the sector.” However, the survey also uncovered a number of potentially worrying trends among construction professionals. Around 41% admit they often use AI to complete tasks they were meant to do themselves, and 38% say they use the technology to get ahead in a way they wouldn’t tell their boss about. Over two-fifths (43%) also have concerns about data security, and 30% highlighted confidentiality. Marko Perisic, Chief Product and Engineering Officer at The Access Group, said: “AI has taken off in a way that few people could have imagined – but left unchecked it can lead to some employees using it irresponsibly. Sometimes this is down to lack of training about the potential security risks but, according to our survey, a high proportion use it covertly to do their job for them, which is unfair on their colleagues and customers. “Construction teams need a vendor who offers the highest data protection standards. Our new AI experience, Access Evo, encourages employees to innovate, while giving them peace of mind that all information is stored in a secure and private environment and not used in other open source AI systems. Approved AI tools like these, underpinned by clear and regularly-updated policies and training, can help everyone to deliver a better standard of service, and get ahead in their careers without compromising company data.” The full research can be found here www.theaccessgroup.com/en-gb/evo/insights. For more information about Access Evo, The Access Group’s new AI solution for businesses, visit www.theaccessgroup.com/en-gb/evo Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Marking a significant step in the government’s growth mission, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, together with some of the sector’s leading FTSE 100 and privately owned companies including AstraZeneca, GSK, Airbus and AVEVA, investors, and Britain’s top universities, have welcomed a plan to double the economy of the Oxford-Milton Keynes-Cambridge region by 2035. In a meeting with industry chiefs today, Secretary of State for Science and Innovation Rt Hon Peter Kyle and Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation Lord Vallance confirmed their steadfast commitment to growth in the UK’s most strategically important region for science and technology, working with the Oxford-Cambridge Supercluster Board to explore their plans. Projections from the Oxford-Cambridge Supercluster Board, which represents many of the largest investors in UK science and technology, and research consultancy Public First estimate that fast-tracking the region’s growth through policy interventions like reforming the planning system would add an estimated £78 billion cumulative GDP to the UK economy by 2035. This is equivalent to funding the national New Hospital Programme, the country’s biggest hospital building programme in a generation, more than three times over. Powered by private capital and infrastructure investment including the delivery of East West Rail and an expanding Luton Airport, the commitment – which follows the Government’s recently announced AI Opportunities Action Plan – puts the UK’s ambition to become a global scientific superpower firmly back on the table, including through the creation of 100,000 high-skilled jobs. It comes as the region’s universities join the call to reverse a so-called “brain drain” away from Britain by nurturing homegrown talent and attracting the best and brightest from across the globe. Also supporting the pledge were some of the 45 members of industry body the Oxford-Cambridge Supercluster Board, which counts among its ranks leading industry players including AstraZeneca, Airbus, AVEVA, Oxa, an international developer of autonomous vehicle software, and Cambridge-headquartered global leader in AI cybersecurity Darktrace, alongside the region’s globally renowned universities and international investors and advisors such as Prologis, ARC, Pioneer, Bidwells, British Land and Mission Street. The Oxford-Milton Keynes-Cambridge corridor represents one of the world’s most influential regions for science and technology, which already contributes over £40bn to the UK economy, with world-leading levels of patents and scientific publications per capita. Currently accounting for seven percent of total UK GDP, the region is responsible for some of the world’s most significant scientific breakthroughs including the structure of DNA, in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), the invention of penicillin and green hydrogen, as well as monoclonal antibodies and ultra-thin solar cells to generate renewable electricity over a wider surface area. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Discount retailer Savers has announced ambitious plans to open 32 new stores across the UK in 2025. Known for offering a wide range of health, household, toiletries, and beauty products, the company is actively seeking locations in retail parks, high streets, and shopping centres to expand its footprint. Savers is targeting units with ground-floor sales areas ranging from 1,800 sq ft to 5,000 sq ft, ensuring ample space to cater to its growing customer base. Here’s the full list of locations Savers is eyeing for its expansion: By focusing on key locations and optimised retail spaces, Savers continues its mission to deliver high-quality, affordable products to more customers across the UK. Stay tuned for updates as the expansion unfolds in 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Civil engineering tender prices increased by an average of 1% in the final quarter of 2024, according to a panel newly established by the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS). The BCIS Civil Engineering TPI panel has been formed to advise on the latest movement in tender prices, i.e. prices agreed between client and constructor at commit to construct, and to inform quarterly updates to the BCIS Civil Engineering Tender Price Index. Comprised of cost consultants from firms involved in multiple civil engineering tenders in the UK, the panel will also provide commentary on conditions affecting pricing levels on civil engineering projects. At its first meeting, panellists also agreed on a 4.7% average increase in civil engineering tender prices in the year to 4Q2024. Dr David Crosthwaite, BCIS chief economist, said: “It’s fantastic to see the Civil Engineering TPI panel up and running. From our UK building TPI panel and our Scottish tender price assessment and contractor panels, we know just how valuable the insights are that we get from experts working on multiple tenders. “They really help us to understand the context of what we see in the data and how different the tendering experience might be dependent on location, procurement route and sub-sector.” The panel described a generally positive pipeline of work for the next 12 months, though some projects remain at the mercy of government policy, for example the Lower Thames Crossing scheme, and in some cases are reliant on direct public sector expenditure. Panellists described a ‘wait and see’ approach in the market, with the results of phase 2 of the government’s spending review and the National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline due to be published later this year. Dr Crosthwaite added: “As is always the case, the sector needs clarity and commitment to schemes to properly plan and to give confidence to the supply chain. “When asked about contractors’ appetite to tender, the civil engineering TPI panellists described a similar profile to the building TPI panel, with risk aversion among contractors meaning suitable tenderers are found after searching, but they’re not seeing very eager contractors. This was particularly the case with larger projects, where there needs to be agreement about who carries the risk.” For more information about BCIS, please visit: www.bcis.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK construction industry saw a 15% increase in contract awards in 2024, reaching £79.5 billion, according to Barbour ABI. The biggest regional gain was seen in the East of England at 52% whilst the North East fell the most by 20%. However, the surge in spending was driven largely by infrastructure projects, particularly green energy initiatives, which grew an impressive 56%. Barbour ABI analysts warned that this growth may be masking broader industry challenges. Housing activity remained stagnant, with just 1% growth, despite efforts by the Labour government to boost the sector, while industrial spending declined by 12%. Planning approvals were also down 8%, dropping below £100bn for the first time since 2022 despite the new government’s efforts to kick start activity since the election in July. Barbour ABI Head of Business and Client Analytics, Ed Griffiths commented, “Despite the headline growth, not all is as it seems. Infrastructure has been carrying the rest of the industry on its back in 2024. Without these projects, growth would be in the single digits. “Rising costs, market uncertainty, and skilled labour shortages continue to plague the industry. Insolvencies, including the collapse of major contractors like ISG, have delayed key projects and created ripple effects across the sector. High interest rates have further discouraged investment, reducing demand for new homes and stalling large developments.” Lack of underlying confidence in applications Applications once again remained under £100bn and dipped a further 5% on an already poor performing 2023, reflecting how industry confidence remains stubbornly low. For the second year running housing applications were down by 6%, following a 15% fall in 2023. “Labour’s planning reforms offer hope to housebuilders, but the industry is holding its breath to see if these changes will lead to a rise in applications for new builds in 2025,” added Griffiths. “In the meantime, we’re looking to emerging sectors like data centres, spurred by Keir Starmer’s recent AI investment announcements, to carry growth in the year ahead.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
THE recent expansion of the University of Southampton’s Jubilee Sports Centre, designed by AJ100 practice GT3 Architects, is bringing an elevated sport, leisure, and wellbeing experience to students and residents alike. The £24.7m expansion of the existing sports facility includes a fitness suite with more than 200 stations – making it one of Southampton’s largest gyms – alongside four fitness studios, an indoor cycling studio, and dedicated climbing and bouldering wall for all abilities. Together with three new squash courts, the new dry side offering seamlessly integrates with the existing wet leisure space, which includes a six-lane pool. Designed in the aftermath of the UK’s Covid-19 pandemic, the new Jubilee Centre represents an important shift in the way leisure facilities can support the wider ambitions of higher educational facilities. The expansion recognised the opportunity to integrate the requirements of the wider local community into a campus facility. The design team worked closely with stakeholders to ensure the final building met not only the diverse needs of the student population – including numerous sports and athletics teams, gym, and social users – but of the wider community too. This robust understanding of user-requirements not only influenced the final building design, but it also supported operator and client aims as they reviewed opening hours, multifunctioning spaces, and identified potential additional revenue streams. Kieran McFarlane, associate architectural technologist at GT3, said: “We designed this centre with people in mind and, while it’s a key part of the university campus, it’s there for the whole community. Every decision has been made with the goal of making sure that anyone – regardless of age, ability or background – can benefit from what the centre has to offer. “Everything reflects a strive to include and welcome a much wider range of users, seeking to support diversity within the average UK student population. Unisex changing areas, adaptive sports equipment, and the option of quiet and private space or louder public spaces have been integrated throughout the facility mix, ensuring visitors of all abilities and preferences can access, train, compete and enjoy everything the centre has to offer. “It was also a priority to ensure the building feels open, inviting and connected to the spaces around it, including Valley Gardens and University Road. The considered design all comes together to create a really vibrant and accessible space designed to enhance the health and wellbeing of all. The state-of-the-art fitness experience embodies this ethos and positions the Jubilee Sports Centre as the central hub for physical activity and community in the area.” A final priority for the university was for the facility to support wellbeing as much as physical fitness, providing safe, welcoming, social-orientated spaces for the student population. Clear sight lines into external green spaces are integrated along primary circulation routes, with visual and physical access to all facilities facilitated through large windows and glazed entry points into the building. The social café opens onto a wide veranda overlooking the adjacent yoga garden, and access to the nearby public park and fitness trails. Consistent communication with the client team through a multitude of channels ensured that every aspect of the scheme was carefully considered to align with project and team ambitions, culminating in a product of enhanced architectural, inclusive, and BREEAM credentials. This collaborative effort across the delivery team assisted in foreplaning for potential complexities in the enhancement works within a live student area, maintaining a fully operational pool facility throughout the construction phase. The tight site required a compact and well-thought-out solution to avoid splitting leisure services across the campus, reinforcing the ethos of accessibility, and providing cohesiveness across the leisure offering. Kieran added: “Getting the connection between the old and new building to be seamless was critical for the user experience, but we also needed to consider how the expanded Jubilee Sports Centre sits within the wider campus landscape. The way we approached the massing of the building works to reflect that of the campus itself, with a stepped down approach to lower-rise residential buildings at one end of the campus – avoiding the sports centre becoming overbearing in its setting.” Designed to meet BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standard, the building features passive design elements such as natural ventilation and light, with an improved airtightness of 3.5m³/h/m², lowering operational carbon outputs, and constructed with lower embodied carbon in mind, it also aligns the finished scheme with the RIBA 2030 Climate challenge. Mark Craig, Managing Director for Construction South at Wates, said: “We are incredibly proud of all our teams’ work delivering this exceptional facility. Collaborating with such innovators as GT3 has ensured the design was sustainable and considerate at all stages, helping us all support the University’s net zero ambitions. “Our purpose at Wates is to create thriving places for communities, providing opportunities for all to feel included and invested in. We believe this new sports centre is testament to this, helping to improve wellbeing in the local community while delivering a positive social impact throughout the course of its build through extensive Social Value initiatives.” Trudi Vout, director of residences, sport & community at the University of Southampton, said: “The new Jubilee Sport and Recreation Centre stands as an example of our commitment to enhancing the student experience and promoting a culture of inclusivity and wellness through sports and active participation. “The building design embodies the shared vision of sustainability, seamlessly integrating green spaces into the building through expansive windows that invite natural light and lawns that foster connection to nature. “The harmonious integration with our existing structure is a testament to the thoughtful planning and collaboration with our architects, GT3 Architects, whose vision, creativity and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this design to life.” The project team for the expansion of the Jubilee Sports Centre also included Wates Group, Ramboll A/S, Method Consulting, and Studio Loci. For further information, please visit www.gt3architects.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Met Office’s ‘danger to life’ red warning ahead of the arrival of Storm Eowyn in the UK is another reminder of the importance of constructing roofs which can withstand extreme weather conditions, says insulation specialist Actis. Warnings that wind gusts of up to 100mph could see roofs blown off buildings in Northern Ireland and parts of Scotland, and amber and yellow warnings issued for other parts of the UK underline the need to comply with roof construction building regulations. Actis UK and Ireland sales director Mark Cooper explained: “That building standard – snappily titled BS5534:2014 slating and tiling for pitched roofs and vertical cladding code of practice specifying criteria – addresses every component of the construction of a standard roof, including underlays, mortar bedding, battens, flashings and structural sheathing fixings. “And with not all underlays being suitable for use across all five regions of the UK, roofs in areas prone to being hit by strong winds need to choose membranes which are deemed suitable for use in these zones. Our insulating breather membrane Boost R Hybrid Roof is BRE-approved for use in even the windiest parts of the British Isles, including those affected by Storm Eowyn. “It’s worth noting that some underlays are only suitable for use in zones one to three.” Boost R Hybrid Roof has passed the BRE’s all-important wind uplift resistance test, with appropriate package labelling ensuring that roofers and builders can easily identify the correct underlay for the geographical region in which they are working, something particularly relevant for contractors working in wind-affected areas. Using Boost R Hybrid Roof means builders can minimise the ‘ballooning effect’ which sees the underlay force tiles and slates off the roof in high winds. Underlay is not allowed to balloon more than 35mm. The wind uplift pressure achieved by Boost ‘R Hybrid during the tests was way more effective than that required under the building standard, which calls for a minimum wind uplift resistance of 1600 Pa for a 345mm batten gauged roof covering, rising to 2350Pa for roofs with no ceiling and a permanent dominant opening. Boost R Hybrid Roof managed an impressive average of 3054Pa when used with taped lap alone and 5748Pa with the addition of a 38mm counter batten. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
