Huws Gray Group, one of the UK’s leading supplier of construction materials, has today published its inaugural annual sustainability report. The report looks forward to future ambitions, including targets and areas of focus for the Group and gives a transparent overview of the Group’s 2023 performance in the areas of
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published its response to the Government’s consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said: “Delivering the volume of high-quality homes to meet the urgent demand across the country is essential. We have a housing
CELEBRATIONS are in full swing as northern flexi-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures secures two prestigious accolades at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. Part of Efficiency North Holdings, EN:Able Futures has grown into a leading flexi-job apprenticeship agency over the past decade, unlocking opportunities for young people across the north of
Promat has appointed a new fire test manager for the UK market, underlining its commitment to the very highest standards in fire testing classification and certification. The introduction of the Building Safety Act has increased demand for clarity on exactly how and where passive fire protection products can be used.
Plans are taking shape for the development of a £30m, 83-bed Extra Care scheme in Morpeth town centre, a significant investment in the provision of much-needed specialist housing in the county. Northern housing association Karbon Homes, is working in partnership with Northumberland County Council to bring forward the new affordable
A powerhouse delegation, headed by the Government’s Lisa Nandy MP (Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport), visited Everton Stadium during the Labour party’s annual conference in Liverpool. Ms Nandy, the MP for Wigan, was accompanied on the tour of the Club’s new waterfront home by Steve Rotheram,
GRAHAM has been awarded the next phase of key infrastructure works to create the eastern access into the Western Growth Corridor development for City of Lincoln Council. Leading on the design and construction, works include, the new bridge crossing Tritton Road across the existing railway line, a new signalised junction
The management team has successfully completed a buyout at leading workplace consultancy and commercial interior design firm, Blueprint Interiors. Rachel Biddles and Chloe Sproston have taken ownership of the business, which will see chairman and founder Rob Day take a step towards retirement and his passion for community-led projects for
Harron Homes has introduced its enhanced Homemover schemes designed to simplify the homebuying and selling process for househunters searching across Yorkshire and the North Midlands. The two schemes, Assisted Move and Part Exchange, provide practical solutions for customers looking to move into a new Harron home while avoiding the common
Star Platforms is delighted to announce its successful re-accreditation as an IPAF Rental+ company for the upcoming year. The company achieved an outstanding score of 98% during the comprehensive independent audit conducted at its Reading depot. IPAF Rental+ certification is a mark of excellence in the powered access industry, ensuring
Huws Gray Group, one of the UK’s leading supplier of construction materials, has today published its inaugural annual sustainability report. The report looks forward to future ambitions, including targets and areas of focus for the Group and gives a transparent overview of the Group’s 2023 performance in the areas of environment, social and governance. Sustainability Report 2023 (huwsgray.co.uk) Introducing the report, Daksh Gupta, Group CEO Huws Gray Group, says; “A renewed focus on sustainability was one of my immediate priorities for Huws Gray Group when I became CEO of the business earlier this year. Like many businesses, we have much to do but I am extremely heartened by the steps we have already taken. Our ESG strategy focusses on four strategic pillars and this first report lays out the company goals to which we commit.” The report covers two key aspects, firstly the company’s achievements, covering economic, environmental, social and governance areas. Secondly, the report sets out a new set of targets for the Huws Gray Group including Scope 1&2 emissions, Scope 3 emissions, transitioning to a 100% electric fleet and developing a sustainable procurement process. The strategy has four central pillars, which are described in detail in the report: Some highlights from the 2023 report include: Huws Gray Group are committed to publishing a sustainability report annually with progress on the company’s journey towards a more sustainability future. Dafydd Hughes from Huws Gray Group Sustainability Team commented; “In 2023 we made significant progress in the ESG areas so are delighted to publish our first Sustainability Report and we look forward to being part of driving positive change within our industry. We believe the key to success in sustainability is working together with our colleagues, customers, suppliers and stakeholders to make a positive impact on our people and planet.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published its response to the Government’s consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said: “Delivering the volume of high-quality homes to meet the urgent demand across the country is essential. We have a housing crisis, and while there are promising reforms on the table, such as measures to unlock brownfield land, real change will only happen if these proposals are backed by adequate support and resources. Architects are poised to bring the high-quality design that these reforms call for, but the uncomfortable truth is that most volume homes never pass through an architecture design studio. Add to that the lack of investment in local planning authorities, which are stretched thin and lack the design expertise necessary to oversee the process effectively. While we note proposals to mandate a greater proportion of homes for social rent and a mix of tenures and types, these must be accompanied by an adequate supply of housing for older and disabled people to meet the increasing demand. If the Government commits to supporting local planning, encourages cross-boundary cooperation, and releases grey belt land while also prioritising brownfield sites, it can unlock the system’s full potential – but it must get it right.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CELEBRATIONS are in full swing as northern flexi-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures secures two prestigious accolades at East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards. Part of Efficiency North Holdings, EN:Able Futures has grown into a leading flexi-job apprenticeship agency over the past decade, unlocking opportunities for young people across the north of England in the construction and built environment sector through high-quality apprenticeships. To date, the agency has empowered more than 500 apprentices to become career-ready, providing first-class support and training, and helping to address the skills gap in the industry. Last week (Thursday, 19 September), the agency was named SME Employer of the Year, while apprentice Liam Mansbridge, hosted by Termrim Construction Ltd, won Higher Apprentice of the Year. Another EN:Able Futures apprentice, Harvey Dobson, hosted by Alan Wood & Partners, was also a finalist in the Advanced Apprentice of the Year category, further showcasing the talent fostered by the service. Julie Deeley, director of operations at EN:Able Futures, said: “This double win is an incredible achievement for EN:Able Futures and a testament to the dedication and passion of our team, apprentices, and host partners alike. “Liam’s success as Higher Apprentice of the Year and our recognition as SME Employer of the Year highlight the transformative work we’re doing to deliver life-changing opportunities to the young people of the region. Our apprentices, like Liam and Harvey, are at the heart of what we do, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see their efforts recognised on such a prestigious stage. “At EN:Able Futures, we strive to shape the future of the construction industry by investing in people, talent, and potential. These awards validate the positive impact of our work and reaffirm our commitment to providing valuable pathways to ensure young professionals are equipped to succeed.” To find out more about EN:Able Futures, please visit: https://www.efficiencynorth.org/futures/find-an-apprenticeship Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Promat has appointed a new fire test manager for the UK market, underlining its commitment to the very highest standards in fire testing classification and certification. The introduction of the Building Safety Act has increased demand for clarity on exactly how and where passive fire protection products can be used. Promat already has the industry’s most extensive testing database and the appointment of Dan Gibson will further strengthen this. His role will see him co-ordinate testing activities across the Promat business to ensure test data is available for an expanded range of applications – in turn acting as a key source of data for those designing and carrying out construction projects. Dan will also offer bespoke support for larger projects, helping to demonstrate that products meet the required safety and compliance standards for the intended application. With a background in fire testing, Dan is looking forward to working with Promat to further demonstrate the capabilities of its systems in a range of applications across construction projects. He said: “Following the introduction of the Building Safety Act the demand for clear, demonstrated fire testing certification is stronger than ever. The commitment to standards at Promat is impressive and I look forward to working closely with the product development teams to fully demonstrate the capabilities of Promat’s products.” Technical Director Nigel Morrey said: “Promat is committed to delivering tested systems that have the transparency, detail and level of performance needed to give architects, specifiers and contractors the confidence they need in a life critical product. “Rigorous testing is essential to demonstrating compliance and performance, and Dan will play an important role in organising fire tests and liaising with testing laboratories and certification bodies.” Promat is a leading manufacturer of passive fire protection systems that are an essential part of building design to help contain the spread of fire to allow occupants time to escape, and protect the integrity of the building and assets within it Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans are taking shape for the development of a £30m, 83-bed Extra Care scheme in Morpeth town centre, a significant investment in the provision of much-needed specialist housing in the county. Northern housing association Karbon Homes, is working in partnership with Northumberland County Council to bring forward the new affordable housing scheme, helping to address the shortage of accommodation with care for residents with differing levels of care and support needs. Karbon has now exchanged contracts with Vistry North East, who will build the scheme. It will be developed alongside the third and final phase of homes at King Edwards Park – a joint venture (JV) project called Evolution Morpeth LLP which is regenerating the site of the former St George’s Hospital, in the town. Zoey Hawthorne, Assistant Director of Development Delivery at Karbon Homes, said: “This is an exciting milestone for the delivery of this new Extra Care scheme in Morpeth, which will help fill the need locally for high quality, affordable housing that provides residents with the levels of care and support they need to continue living independently.” “Alongside supporting the Council with the delivery of its Extra Care and supported housing strategy, the scheme will have community at its heart, with a bistro cafe open to the general public and multiple communal lounges and multi-use spaces for activities available to book.” The new scheme will consist of a mix of one and two-bed apartments, 15 of which will be designed for people with dementia and two apartments suitable for bariatric care. Residents will have access to 24/7 care available on site – provided in partnership between Karbon and Northumberland County Council. Northumberland County Councillor Wendy Pattison, Portfolio Holder for Caring for Adults, said: “Our aim is to improve access to affordable, high quality, and adaptable accommodation for varying levels of need. “This includes developing accommodation that offers an integrated package which could consist of technology, disability-friendly design, and most importantly, care and support to enable people to continue to live as independently as possible in the community. “This extra care development is a welcome contribution to our strategy for meeting the changing needs of our population.” The JV partners, Vistry North East – which is part of Vistry Group – and Home Group, invited Karbon to become part of the project, after sharing the concept of including an Extra Care offer at the development with Northumberland County Council. Vistry Group is the UK’s leading provider of affordable mixed tenure homes. Delivered through the Countryside Partnerships brand, the group is creating thousands of homes every year for the affordable and private marketplaces. Andrew Rennie, Development Director, Vistry North East, said: “We are delighted to have exchanged contracts with Karbon Homes for the delivery of this Extra Care scheme – part of our wider delivery of new homes at King Edwards Park. “We have extensive experience delivering projects of this nature across the region – including recent Premier Guarantee Quality Award winning schemes in Penshaw and Guisborough – and we look forward to starting work here, later in the year.” The Extra Care scheme is to be part-funded by Homes England, through Karbon’s Strategic Partnership with the Government’s housing delivery agency. Northumberland County Council is also funding a contribution to the capital costs. The strategic partnership has provided Karbon with £165million in funding to deliver 2,200 new affordable homes across the North East and Yorkshire over the next few years, 10% of which has been dedicated to the development of new homes for people requiring additional support needs. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A powerhouse delegation, headed by the Government’s Lisa Nandy MP (Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport), visited Everton Stadium during the Labour party’s annual conference in Liverpool. Ms Nandy, the MP for Wigan, was accompanied on the tour of the Club’s new waterfront home by Steve Rotheram, the Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Andy Burham, Mayor of Greater Manchester and Jade Botterill MP prior to their attendance at the conference, which is regarded as one of the biggest political gatherings in Europe. The political VIPs, along with senior Government civil servants and policy makers, were impressed to hear how advanced manufacturing, digital technology and assembly techniques had been utilised on this ‘once-in-a-generation’ development. Everton’s Interim CEO Colin Chong hosted the group with Laing O’ Rourke’s CEO Cathal O’Rourke, as they toured the stadium. As well as learning more about The Plaza, the refurbished Grade II Listed hydraulic tower and the Club’s steadfast commitment to accessibility, the delegation also learnt how more than £280m of social value had been created during the build. Lisa Nandy, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: “Everton is a Club with a rich and proud history – this new stadium will play an important part in not only the club’s next chapter, but also the future of Liverpool City Region. “Both Andy and Steve have expressed the incredible contribution that Everton Football Club makes to the local community, and we absolutely share their excitement for the official opening in August 2025”. Everton Stadium, which has been under construction since the summer of 2021, is widely recognised as one of the largest single-site private sector developments in the country, contributing an estimated £1.3bn boost to the UK economy, creating tens of thousands of jobs and is estimated to attract 1.4m visitors to the city of Liverpool, annually. Colin Chong, Everton’s Interim CEO, said: “It was great to have to the opportunity of hosting the Secretary of State and Lisa’s Labour colleagues at Everton Stadium. “I’d like to thank Lisa, Steve, Andy, Jade and all the civil servants for taking the time out of their busy conference schedule to see this important development for themselves. “I know they were impressed with the stadium and how the Club’s Stadium Operations team and Laing O’Rourke have harnessed digital technologies and modern methods of construction to deliver a project of the highest quality. As the project nears completion, they also saw how transformative it will be for city as the Club’s ambitious plans continue to provide new opportunities, raise aspirations and create a lasting legacy.” Everton Stadium is due to be completed on schedule later this year and the Club is planning a series of test events early next year in anticipation of playing their first competitive fixture at the new waterfront home next August. Cathal O’Rourke, Group Chief Executive at Laing O’Rourke, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Secretary of State and Mayors of Liverpool and Manchester as well as their Labour colleagues to Everton Stadium to see the incredible progress our team is making. As a result of our manufacturing led approach to construction, in less than three and a half years we have gone from a water-filled dock to a world-class stadium that is now just months from completion. We are proud to be working with Everton on a project that is the catalyst for the regeneration of this part of north Liverpool, and which has created employment, training and educational opportunities for thousands of local people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GRAHAM has been awarded the next phase of key infrastructure works to create the eastern access into the Western Growth Corridor development for City of Lincoln Council. Leading on the design and construction, works include, the new bridge crossing Tritton Road across the existing railway line, a new signalised junction on Tritton Road including modifications to the existing Dixon Street junction and enabling works. Discussing the award, Alastair Lewis GRAHAM Contracts Director said: “We’re delighted to be leading on the next phase of works for City of Lincoln Council. The new bridge and associated works will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the development of the surrounding area, enhancing connectivity while driving economic growth. Alastair added: “With works off the ground we’re looking forward to playing our part in this project and working collaboratively with the client and key stakeholders.” Cllr Joshua Wells, Portfolio Holder for Inclusive Economic Growth at City of Lincoln Council, said: “Western Growth Corridor is a key priority for our council, and the next phase of the development will be a crucial step toward achieving our future vision for the city. “This phase of development will fulfil our urban extension plans to improve our city’s sustainability and long-term growth for years to come. With plans to deliver thousands of new homes, Western Growth Corridor will play a transformative role in addressing Lincoln’s housing needs and driving economic prosperity for our local communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The management team has successfully completed a buyout at leading workplace consultancy and commercial interior design firm, Blueprint Interiors. Rachel Biddles and Chloe Sproston have taken ownership of the business, which will see chairman and founder Rob Day take a step towards retirement and his passion for community-led projects for the company. Operations director Rachel Biddles and creative director Chloe Sproston have been with Blueprint Interiors for 22 and 19 years respectively, having played a significant part in its innovation and growth over the years. The new ownership marks a new chapter for the Ashby-based business – as it celebrates a record 12 months of trading and secures significant projects with household names in 2025. Set up by Rob 23 years ago, Blueprint Interiors continue to shape the future of workplace design, meeting the evolving needs of employer and employee. Rachel Biddles, said: “This has been three years in the planning and it’s wonderful to be able to share the news with the industry. While it’s a strategic move, it has felt a natural transition with Chloe and me being in the business for such a long time. “With a very busy order book and some big projects to announce in the coming months, there is plenty for Chloe and me to deliver and celebrate. This new ownership will enable us to continue to drive forward innovation and quality in workplace design, which is what Blueprint is known for.” Chloe Sproston, said: “Rob has passionately created a vibrant company with strong ethics and values. His success is significant and he has been a fantastic mentor to Rachel and me. “We have always had a clear sense of who we are at Blueprint, our expertise, and our desire to provide the best experience for our clients. We love this company and have always treated it as our own, so to now be a co-owner is incredibly rewarding. “I want to thank Rob for putting his trust in us to take things forward, and the dedicated team who Rachel and I will be working alongside in this next phase of organic growth and expansion.” Rob Day, said “As we celebrate 23 years in business and a number of recent talent acquisitions, we now also celebrate this exciting new chapter for Blueprint. “This has been a long time in the planning and I feel grateful and proud that Chloe and Rachel will now take the business forward. They have been instrumental in creating the company we have today so it couldn’t be in better hands. “Their commitment to Blueprint along with their ambition, vision and sheer talent, ensure the ongoing success of the company, providing clients with our unique services and nurturing the best team in the business. “Now is the perfect time to hand the reins over, whilst I’ll remain in my role as chairman and founder, as well as continuing to help drive our community and social value activities. There may also be some sailing on the horizon for me as I relish a little more free time! I wish Chloe, Rachel and the team the very best for the future and look forward to seeing their continued success.” Blueprint Interiors follow the WELL Building Standard; a universally recognised benchmark which puts mental wellbeing and emotional health as key considerations when creating productive workplaces. The Standard helps organisations to optimise their workplaces around the health and wellbeing of their people, which allows teams to be their very best selves. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Harron Homes has introduced its enhanced Homemover schemes designed to simplify the homebuying and selling process for househunters searching across Yorkshire and the North Midlands. The two schemes, Assisted Move and Part Exchange, provide practical solutions for customers looking to move into a new Harron home while avoiding the common pitfalls of selling their current property. Assisted Move offers a tailored plan for homeowners who need to sell their current home before moving into their new one. First, Harron arranges valuations from three independent estate agents to provide a fair market value for the customer’s property. Then, they create a personalised marketing strategy to sell their property at the very best price. The customer’s property is kept on the market until it has sold, and Harron Homes’ knowledgeable sales experts remain on hand to assist with the sale through-out the entire process. Once the home has been sold, Harron pay the estate agent fees, and the customer can reserve their brand new and energy-efficient Harron home. The second Homemover scheme is Part Exchange, which is available only on selected properties. This process provides a guaranteed cash buyer for the current home, eliminating property chain delays and streamlining the transition into a new Harron home. “We are excited to offer these comprehensive Homemover schemes,” says Natalie Griffiths, Sales and Marketing Director for Harron Homes North Midlands. “Both the Assisted Move and Part Exchange schemes are designed to make the homebuying journey as seamless and stress-free as possible for our customers. One of the most daunting parts of buying a house is the struggle of having to sell your current property while meeting timelines and battling with property chains. With our Homemover schemes, the customer has expert support to ensure they sell their old house and move into their new Harron home at a pace that suits them.” For more information on Harron Homes’ Homemover schemes, please visit: https://www.harronhomes.com/purchasing-assistance/homemover-schemes/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Star Platforms is delighted to announce its successful re-accreditation as an IPAF Rental+ company for the upcoming year. The company achieved an outstanding score of 98% during the comprehensive independent audit conducted at its Reading depot. IPAF Rental+ certification is a mark of excellence in the powered access industry, ensuring that rental companies meet the highest standards in training, equipment inventory, and customer satisfaction. The audit, which this year focused on the Reading depot, confirms that Star Platforms consistently upholds these esteemed standards. Del Patterson, Quality, Health, Safety, and Environment (QHSE) Manager, Star Platforms, commented: “Achieving a 98% score in the IPAF Rental+ assessment is a fantastic accomplishment. This result reflects the dedication and hard work of every member of the Star Platforms team. The IPAF Rental+ accreditation highlights our commitment to providing top-quality platforms and exceptional support to our customers, while maintaining the highest safety and operational standards in the industry.” The IPAF Rental+ scheme, operated by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), identifies rental companies that excel in critical aspects of powered access operations. The certification process evaluates maintenance practices, training and safety records, environmental standards, and company policies and procedures. The IPAF Rental+ status assures customers of high standards throughout the Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) hire and rental process, confirming their choice of a company that adheres to rigorous health, safety, and quality standards. To maintain this accreditation, members must undergo an intense annual audit, ensuring a proactive approach to continual improvement. Steve Simmons, Joint Managing Director, Star Platforms, added: “Retaining the IPAF Rental+ certification is a testament to our relentless focus on quality and excellence. This re-accreditation not only affirms our commitment to industry-leading practices but also reinforces our position as a trusted partner in powered access solutions. We are proud of the team’s efforts and the standards we have set.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
