Drax Power has announced a major partnership with Power Minerals Limited (PML) to process pulverised fuel ash (PFA) for use in cement, in a move set to reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry. Under a newly agreed 20-year joint venture, PML will develop and operate a facility near the
UK fire door manufacturer JELD-WEN will be on hand to discuss sector-specific fire door solutions at this year’s Fire Safety Event. Returning to the event for the second year in a row, the specialist manufacturer of timber doors will be showcasing its expanded range of certified fire doorsets – and
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is joining forces with Women in Construction Anglia to help bridge the gap between the industry and education, and encourage more women into construction roles. The new partnership comes as the government commits £600 million to address the construction sector’s skills shortage, with the aim of
PERI and BECOFORM have strengthened their collaboration with their partnership for UK-based projects. Through this partnership, PERI secures access to a high-quality and innovative product with significant growth potential in the UK market. BECOSTOP, a permanent stop-end system, plays a key role in PERI’s Construction Accessories range, designed to enhance
Global fashion retailer UNIQLO is preparing to make its Glasgow debut with a new store on Argyle Street, marking its second location in Scotland. Spanning approximately 23,500 sq ft, the store is set to open later this year, adding to the ongoing transformation of Argyle Street, which recently welcomed Next
Prime plc has reached a significant milestone in Cornwall, achieving Financial Close on a key worker accommodation project in Truro, helping to address the critical lack of housing for key workers at Royal Cornwall Hospital. In June 2023, Steve Williamson, CEO of the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, highlighted the
Multiplex has energised a 10MWp solar farm in Norfolk, marking a major milestone in its commitment to reducing carbon emissions across its London construction projects. The Northwold Solar PV generating station, developed in partnership with Ampyr Solar Europe (ASE), is now fully connected to the grid. This follows years of
The Scaffolding Association has announced the appointment of Mark Parkin as its new Strategic Director, reinforcing its commitment to raising standards, improving safety, and advocating for the industry’s recognition as a highly skilled and essential industry. With 37 years of experience in scaffolding—including 31 years in roles such as advanced
United Living Infrastructure Services (ULIS) has been awarded a multi-million-pound contract by gas distributor Cadent to deliver a critical pipeline diversion in Ulverston, Cumbria. The existing Ulverston to Barrow pipeline supplies gas to tens of thousands of homes and businesses. However, due to historical settlement issues and previous leakages, the
Ahead of tomorrow’s Spring Statement the chancellor has announced she is injecting £600m into construction training. In response to this news, Andy Rayner, Director of Learning and Development at Travis Perkins Plc says: “It’s encouraging to see the Government recognising the importance of skilled trades in delivering the UK’s housing
Drax Power has announced a major partnership with Power Minerals Limited (PML) to process pulverised fuel ash (PFA) for use in cement, in a move set to reduce carbon emissions in the construction industry. Under a newly agreed 20-year joint venture, PML will develop and operate a facility near the Drax Power Station in Selby, on land leased from Drax. The facility, expected to be operational by the end of 2026, will process PFA into a supplementary cementitious material (SCM), with a projected annual output of 400,000 tonnes once fully operational. Power Minerals, owned by Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský—who recently acquired Royal Mail—will construct, own, and run the facility. Drax will supply PFA to the joint venture, as well as provide power and water to support operations. Lee Dawes, Chief Operations Officer at Drax, hailed the agreement as a landmark deal for both the energy and construction sectors. “Cement production is one of the most carbon-intensive industries globally, and through this partnership, we can help cut emissions in UK construction. Drax Power Station has long been vital to the UK’s energy security, and now it will also play a key role in reducing carbon emissions in construction.” Drax sees this joint venture as an opportunity to unlock additional value from its site while supporting the transition to low-carbon building materials. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
UK fire door manufacturer JELD-WEN will be on hand to discuss sector-specific fire door solutions at this year’s Fire Safety Event. Returning to the event for the second year in a row, the specialist manufacturer of timber doors will be showcasing its expanded range of certified fire doorsets – and highlighting performance criteria and design that supports use in a range of sectors. With more than 250 exhibitors, the Fire Safety Event (8-10 April) is the leading industry event bringing together construction experts, facilities managers, fire safety specialists and suppliers to share the latest fire safety innovations. Visitors to the JELD-WEN stand will get the opportunity to find out about the wide range of fire doorsets that it creates, including hardware options and different finishes. As a licensed door processor and having recently secured BM Trada Q Mark certification in addition to its existing Certifire and Certisecure, JELD-WEN manufactures and fabricates a wide range of fire doorsets for a range of different sectors. Throughout the event, experts from the team will be on hand to discuss performance and specification requirements – including the best options for key sectors where fire doors are frequently a requirement, such as hospitals, care homes, schools, high-rise residential buildings and office blocks. This includes considering key performance factors that tackle the challenges of that sector, including adequate fire ratings, acoustics, security, durability and aesthetics. Lisa Ward, Senior Manager, Product and Marketing at JELD-WEN UK, said: “Fire doors play a vital part in providing passive fire protection in buildings to help to keep occupants safe, providing a means of escape. “As well as showing the depth of JELD-WEN’s testing and certification in ensuring the highest performance standards in fire protection, this will be a good opportunity to highlight how our fire doors have been designed, tested, and certified with the end project in mind. “With a comprehensive sector-by-sector insight into fire door performance – and designed to complement building aesthetics, we are keen to show how fire doors have been designed to meet sector requirements. “This is a great arena to see the latest innovations in fire safety, and to highlight the ongoing commitment to ensure the highest standards across the board, and we look forward to taking part.” The Fire Safety Event takes place at the NEC, Birmingham – visit JELD-WEN at stand 4/L37 or find out more about its fire doorsets at https://www.jeld-wen.co.uk/products/fire-doors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is joining forces with Women in Construction Anglia to help bridge the gap between the industry and education, and encourage more women into construction roles. The new partnership comes as the government commits £600 million to address the construction sector’s skills shortage, with the aim of ensuring Suffolk leads the way on collaboration and tackling the skills gap within the industry. At its core, the partnership looks to enhance skills development by collaborating with local education institutions and local businesses, address barriers to work, promote diversity and inclusion and facilitate engagement between the industry and education. John Dugmore, CEO of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said: “This partnership represents a significant step forward in our commitment to bridging the gap between industry and education. “We have been working behind the scenes on this partnership for some time, so the Chancellor’s announcement on investing in skills in construction has come at the perfect time. “With this new partnership, we can ensure that Suffolk remains at the forefront of the construction sector, continuing to work with our partners in our Suffolk colleges and higher education institutions, with skills leads in our local authorities and, most importantly, with industry so the county is equipped with a diverse and skilled workforce ready to meet future challenges.” The government’s investment seeks to train up to 60,000 skilled construction workers by 2029, supporting the plan to build 1.5 million homes and stimulate economic growth. With women currently making up only 15% of the workforce in the construction industry, it is hoped that through the work of organisations like Women in Construction Anglia and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce that more women will be involved in plans to get Britain building again. Clare Friel, Founder of Women in Construction Anglia, said: “Our collaboration with the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce amplifies our efforts to inspire and support women in the construction industry. “Since its inception we have been proud to collaborate with colleges across Suffolk but have aspirations to take our work across the region. “Together, we can create more opportunities and drive meaningful change” Since its launch in October 2024, Women in Construction Anglia has made a big impact in the sector, engaging more than 600 individuals through events and initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of women to pursue careers in construction. More information on Women on Construction Anglia can be found here and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
PERI and BECOFORM have strengthened their collaboration with their partnership for UK-based projects. Through this partnership, PERI secures access to a high-quality and innovative product with significant growth potential in the UK market. BECOSTOP, a permanent stop-end system, plays a key role in PERI’s Construction Accessories range, designed to enhance construction projects through efficient installation, reduced material waste, and improved safety standards. Meanwhile, German-based manufacturer BECOFORM looks forward to gaining comprehensive UK coverage through projects facilitated by PERI along with the added benefits of technical and sales support, marking a significant milestone in its market expansion. With shared goals and complementary strengths, both companies look forward to a successful partnership focused on delivering exceptional service and value to their customers. Richard Fuchs & Tobias Klich, Managing Directors at BECOFORM commented: “We as BECOFORM are proud to have a strong partnership with PERI UK. We greatly value the excellent collaboration, which has enabled us to successfully support a wide range of projects together. In particular, we would like to highlight the outstanding technical consulting and professional expertise of the PERI UK team, which plays a key role in providing optimal support for our products in the UK market. We sincerely thank the entire PERI UK team for their dedication and look forward to further strengthening our successful and trusted partnership with PERI for our products in the UK market.” Ian Hayes, PERI UK Managing Director commented: “We’ve established a solid foundation with the team at BECOFORM, and I’m excited about the opportunities this partnership creates for PERI UK. With the extended support from BECOFORM, we can deliver labour-saving solutions like BECOSTOP to our customers’ sites quickly. I’m confident that we can measurably increase site efficiencies through BECOSTOP, which will be game-changing for those seeking more modern and sustainable approaches to construction.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Global fashion retailer UNIQLO is preparing to make its Glasgow debut with a new store on Argyle Street, marking its second location in Scotland. Spanning approximately 23,500 sq ft, the store is set to open later this year, adding to the ongoing transformation of Argyle Street, which recently welcomed Next at the end of last year. The Glasgow store joins UNIQLO’s existing Scottish location in Edinburgh, which opened in 2023. Across the UK, the brand operates over 20 stores, including key sites on London’s Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and Battersea, as well as regional locations in Manchester, Liverpool, and Oxford. The retailer is also gearing up to launch its first Midlands store at the Bullring in Birmingham. Savills represented the landlord, Sovereign Centros, while Sims Property Consultants acted on behalf of UNIQLO. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Prime plc has reached a significant milestone in Cornwall, achieving Financial Close on a key worker accommodation project in Truro, helping to address the critical lack of housing for key workers at Royal Cornwall Hospital. In June 2023, Steve Williamson, CEO of the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, highlighted the growing housing challenges faced by hospital staff, which directly impact recruitment and retention, posing long-term risks to maintaining quality care for the community. Prime, a specialist in health and care development, is now working with the Trust to deliver this much-needed key worker housing. The first development site has been identified on Tresawls Road, which has planning permission to deliver 89 new beds for key workers. The site is within walking distance of the hospital and completion of the scheme is targeted for January 2027. This project is part of a broader initiative, and Prime is committed to working long-term with the Trust to identify additional development sites to meet current and future demand. The Tresawls Road site will provide 22 units across 3 blocks of new purpose-built residential accommodation, offering a total of 89 beds arranged in 3, 4 and 5-bed apartments. Nevada Construction Limited have been appointed as the main contractor. Ella Ballatti Stracey, Chief Performance, Partnerships and Transformation Officer at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “The key worker accommodation project is fantastic news for RCHT. Cornwall faces significant housing challenges, which many of our colleagues will have experienced firsthand. These challenges have had a direct and definite impact on issues around recruitment and retention, putting a greater demand on colleagues who provide such an integral role delivering care for our patients and community. “All of us at RCHT are incredibly pleased to see key worker accommodation now being provided so close to our Royal Cornwall Hospitals site. We hope this development, along with the promised 35% affordable homes being offered as part of the new Langarth Garden Village, will pave the way for more opportunities to provide sustainable, secure accommodation to our key workers, both from RCHT and the wider public services.” Leighton Chumbley, Chief Executive at Prime, said: “We are thrilled to reach Financial Close on this vital project. The key worker housing initiative in Truro is a testament to our commitment to supporting NHS staff and enhancing community wellbeing. “By providing high-quality accommodation, we aim to improve the lives of those who dedicate themselves to healthcare, ensuring they have a comfortable and convenient place to live.” Prime aims to collaborate closely with end-users and the local community to ensure the delivery of the right facilities in the right locations. Beyond addressing immediate accommodation needs, Prime is committed to creating long-term social value, including employing local workers and using local suppliers to support the economy. The support of the community in reaching and understanding local needs is invaluable, and this effort is crucial to securing the future of NHS services in Truro, strengthening Cornwall as a place to live and work. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Multiplex has energised a 10MWp solar farm in Norfolk, marking a major milestone in its commitment to reducing carbon emissions across its London construction projects. The Northwold Solar PV generating station, developed in partnership with Ampyr Solar Europe (ASE), is now fully connected to the grid. This follows years of planning and a power purchase agreement (PPA) signed in November 2023, making Multiplex the first UK contractor to operate its own dedicated solar farm. From April 2025, green energy offset under the PPA will power four of Multiplex’s major London developments, including New Zealand House, One Exchange Square, and Bankside Yards (Building 2). The company intends to bring all future projects under this long-term 15-year renewable energy partnership. The Northwold PV project spans 19 hectares, housing 16,380 solar panels with a generation capacity of 10MWp. Producing around 11,448 MWh annually, it can supply energy to over 4,200 homes. A 7.5MW battery storage system, managed by GridBeyond, will provide additional grid support during peak demand. Multiplex UK regional director Tom Marke hailed the project as a game-changer for the construction industry, stating:“Northwold PV going online is a significant step in reducing our carbon emissions—delivering actions, not just words, in the drive to decarbonise UK construction. This self-generated renewable energy will result in verifiable emission reductions, aligning with the UK’s National Grid decarbonisation goals.” Ampyr Solar Europe chief executive Tarun Agrawal added:“This project is another vital step towards a cleaner, greener future. We’re proud to be expanding our European renewable energy portfolio while supporting the UK’s ambitious net zero targets.” By securing a long-term renewable energy supply, Multiplex is driving towards its 2030 sustainability targets, including net zero building operations, zero emissions transport, and zero avoidable waste—paving the way for a more sustainable construction sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Scaffolding Association has announced the appointment of Mark Parkin as its new Strategic Director, reinforcing its commitment to raising standards, improving safety, and advocating for the industry’s recognition as a highly skilled and essential industry. With 37 years of experience in scaffolding—including 31 years in roles such as advanced scaffolder, supervisor, managing director, CEO, and operations director—Mark has developed a profound understanding of the industry. His expertise spans operations, health and safety, and business management, making him a valuable addition to the Scaffolding Association’s team. Robert Candy, CEO of the Scaffolding Association, welcomed Mark’s appointment, stating: “Mark’s extensive industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and strategic mindset align perfectly with the Association’s mission. His expertise will help the Association continue its work in supporting members, driving innovation, and ensuring the scaffolding industry gains the recognition it deserves.” Mark’s vision is closely aligned with the Scaffolding Association’s values of collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement. “I’ve spent 37 years in the scaffolding industry, not just working within it but striving to understand it at its core—its challenges, its opportunities, and the people who make it what it is,” said Mark. “Now, as Strategic Director for the Scaffolding Association, I have the opportunity to drive meaningful change through collaborations and partnerships, ensuring our members and the wider industry thrive. All too often, I see businesses struggling because they can’t see the options available to them,” he noted. “Using the right approach for each challenge requires an open mind and the ability to think outside the box. Sometimes, you just need to reframe what’s in front of you to get a different perspective.” Through his role at the Scaffolding Association, Mark will work closely with the team to support its members, enhance industry-wide collaboration, and contribute to the ongoing development of best practices. His focus will be on strengthening the Association’s initiatives, helping to drive positive change, and ensuring the industry continues to evolve to meet future challenges. By working together, the Association and its members can build a stronger, more resilient scaffolding industry for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
United Living Infrastructure Services (ULIS) has been awarded a multi-million-pound contract by gas distributor Cadent to deliver a critical pipeline diversion in Ulverston, Cumbria. The existing Ulverston to Barrow pipeline supplies gas to tens of thousands of homes and businesses. However, due to historical settlement issues and previous leakages, the pipeline must be rerouted away from the canal embankment to a safer location in an adjacent field. ULIS will install an 850-metre diversion using heavy-wall 12-inch steel pipe, running parallel to the existing pipeline but outside the embankment zone. The project also includes the construction of a 75-metre micro-tunnel beneath Ulverston Canal, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding area. With the site bordering Morecambe Bay—a designated Ramsar, Special Protection Area (SPA), and Special Area of Conservation (SAC)—ULIS will work closely with ecologists, scheduling site visits to protect the local environment before any sensitive works begin. Once the new pipeline is fully operational, the existing pipeline will be safely decommissioned, enhancing safety, reliability, and environmental protection for the region’s gas network. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ahead of tomorrow’s Spring Statement the chancellor has announced she is injecting £600m into construction training. In response to this news, Andy Rayner, Director of Learning and Development at Travis Perkins Plc says: “It’s encouraging to see the Government recognising the importance of skilled trades in delivering the UK’s housing ambitions. The construction industry has been facing significant challenges due to ongoing skills shortages, which have impacted the speed and scale at which projects can be delivered. “An investment of this scale into construction training and recruitment is not just a step in the right direction, but also a long-term commitment to the future of the industry. “Equipping the next generation with the right tools, training, and opportunities will help address critical gaps in the workforce, strengthen the supply chain, and support the industry in meeting ambitious build targets with greater confidence and resilience.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
