A new report by the National Audit Office (NAO), ‘Lessons learned: a planning and spending framework that enables long-term value for money’ has called for a cultural shift in the way government sets out its public spending plans to ensure long-term value for money. In response to the report, Andrew Baldwin, Head
Leading engineering specialist, Akela Ground Engineering, part of Akela Group, has achieved NHBC Accepts certification for its precast foundation system, ABeam. Launched earlier this year, ABeam features a special mechanical pinned joint, allowing for prefabricated ground beams to be installed in a matter of hours, offering housebuilders an exciting new
October marks breast cancer awareness month, a global event that receives a flurry of support from businesses and industries of all kinds. It’s not just from companies with a strong female workforce, either. Organisations with a traditionally male-predominant workforce are also showing their support, not only raising breast cancer awareness
Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS), the independent champion for change in construction, has completed the acquisition of the Building a Safer Future (BSF) programme. The programme, which creates positive culture and behaviour change in building safety, was launched in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. It aims to complement a more
Pirtek UK and Ireland, a market leading hydraulics specialist, has launched its Under the Hard Hat campaign to raise awareness of mental health in the hard hat industries. The campaign follows the company’s recent research, which showed that 94% of hard hat workers have struggled with their mental health. The
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced a comprehensive new set of standards for property professionals: the ‘Property Agency and Management Principles’. This global guideline is set to redefine best practices in property agency and management, applying to RICS members and RICS-regulated firms across residential, commercial, auctioneering, and
Ireland’s championship golf courses are world-renowned, combining breathtaking landscapes with high-calibre design. Known for rugged coastlines, expansive dunes, and lush parklands, Irish golf courses offer not only a challenge to players but also a stunning experience that has captivated players worldwide. Building these courses, however, is an intricate art, involving
John Lewis has launched the first stages of a sweeping multimillion-pound investment across its stores, starting with significant upgrades to its Oxford Street flagship and stores in High Wycombe and Cheadle. These locations are among the first to showcase expanded beauty halls and refreshed shopping spaces designed to enhance the
York’s historic riverside is set for a stunning transformation as Helmsley Group’s ambitious Coney Street Riverside masterplan receives approval from the City of York Council’s planning committee. The masterplan, which will bring new life to a long-overlooked area, was praised by council members, who lauded Helmsley’s commitment to community engagement
Real estate investment firm Castleforge has clinched a substantial £115 million loan to support the redevelopment of the iconic Grade II-listed 1 Golden Lane office building in London’s Square Mile. This significant funding will enable Castleforge to bring to life an ambitious vision for the site, reflecting its commitment to
A new report by the National Audit Office (NAO), ‘Lessons learned: a planning and spending framework that enables long-term value for money’ has called for a cultural shift in the way government sets out its public spending plans to ensure long-term value for money. In response to the report, Andrew Baldwin, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the Association for Project Management (APM), said: “With increasing scrutiny on value for money and environmental impact, it is more important than ever that all projects, especially those funded by the taxpayer, show how they will deliver tangible, measurable impacts in the longer term. “Public spend is often justified by the benefits that a particular government project will accrue over several years. Too often these benefits are not adequately captured and there is often a significant time lag before they are fully realised. “A benefits-led project approach will ensure the impacts of a project on society are more accurately reviewed and delivered. Only this way can we make public money work harder in the long-term. “APM believes the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), when established, can play a key role here. For this to happen, NISTA must be given the resources to further professionalise project management in government and the mandate to ensure project benefits and value for money are given the long-term focus they need.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading engineering specialist, Akela Ground Engineering, part of Akela Group, has achieved NHBC Accepts certification for its precast foundation system, ABeam. Launched earlier this year, ABeam features a special mechanical pinned joint, allowing for prefabricated ground beams to be installed in a matter of hours, offering housebuilders an exciting new and sustainable alternative to ground beam installation. By combining precise off-site fabrication, alignment and interlocking sections with secure fastening, this joint design ensures a robust, reliable and efficient way to connect precast ground beams. Following significant investment, including the creation of a state-of-the-art fabrication facility at Akela’s headquarters near Glasgow, ABeam has been specifically designed to offer housebuilders greater efficiencies in delivery of new homes. NHBC Accepts enables a more efficient assessment of a home for warranty and reduces the risk to the builder of delays in their project. Jermaine Medina, Accepts Technical Operations Manager at NHBC: “As the UK’s leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes, we’re pleased to welcome Akela Ground Engineering to NHBC Accepts with its ABeam pre-cast ground beam system. Systems with NHBC Accepts certification give developers faith and confidence in the quality of the products they are building with.” Will Payne, Manager Director at Akela Ground Engineering, said: “Our new ABeam precast system offers significant advantages in terms of construction install, performance and overall project quality. Designed and manufactured at our purpose-built facility at Thornliebank, near Glasgow, our expert team has the capability to fabricate the product in a controlled environment to ensure quality and production output. “We are proud to have achieved NHBC Accepts certification and believe this is a testament to the quality and expertise employed to deliver a robust and industry-leading pre-cast product.” For further information on NHBC Accepts or to view our accepted systems, please visit www.nhbc.co.uk/accepts Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
October marks breast cancer awareness month, a global event that receives a flurry of support from businesses and industries of all kinds. It’s not just from companies with a strong female workforce, either. Organisations with a traditionally male-predominant workforce are also showing their support, not only raising breast cancer awareness by encouraging men to get themselves checked but also sparking vital conversations about other conditions that affect them as well. One such example is the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC), which has taken the opportunity to encourage men to get themselves checked for prostate cancer, with 1 in 8 men being diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime. Such encouragement is vital in male-heavy industries, where health issues often fall under the radar despite the impact they could have on staff. With so many safety measures adopted in demolition and construction, it makes little sense for people to skip on precautions when it comes to their own personal health. Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, with roughly 52,000 men diagnosed every year in the UK alone. In male predominant industries, such as the construction and demolition industries, organisations NFDC are inspiring members through online and social media campaigns, encouraging workers to get cancer screenings to ensure early detection. For men over the age of 50, regular prostate exams are recommended every two to three years. Just like identifying hazards on-site, workers can spot potential health risks by understanding the factors that influence prostate cancer, including age, race and family history. Some symptoms of prostate cancer include, needing to urinate more frequently, feeling as if your bladder hasn’t emptied and finding blood in semen. Health and safety are a big concern within the demolition industry, but health issues such as cancer are not talked about enough. It is imperative for workers to be proactive and not wait for symptoms to catch up with them. Duncan Rudall, CEO of the NFDC, outlined how working in the demolition industry is extremely physically demanding and that frequent health checks are essential. “Frequent health screenings ensure workers are physically capable of doing their jobs,” he said. “If a medical issue is caught early, there is a higher likelihood of receiving beneficial treatment.” Suffering from physical health issues such as prostate cancer can lead to other issues, including considerably affecting workers’ mental health. Cancer Research UK says that when caught early, 8 in 10 men survive prostate cancer for ten years or more, highlighting the importance of regular screening, particularly for men over 50 working in demanding industries. Owing to the stigma surrounding men’s physical and mental health, organisations working in a predominantly ‘male’ gendered space have made it a priority to educate workers with simple messaging throughout social media platform LinkedIn to keep reminders front of mind. Breast Cancer: Prostate cancer is not the only health issue demolition and construction workers should be concerned about. Breast cancer can also occur in men and is something that can often be forgotten or disregarded as a predominantly female condition. In reality, according to Cancer Research UK, around 370 men in the UK are diagnosed with the disease annually. October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the demolition and construction industries have been instrumental within the trade by ‘wearing it pink’ PPE gear on-site, as well as using pink equipment to raise awareness and funds for the cause. “The demolition and construction industries being involved in ‘wearing it pink day’ every year has helped challenge stereotypes and ensure male workers are vigilant about their health, particularly with a condition they may have previously believed to be considered ‘female only.’” Mr Rudall added. People who have one or more first-degree relatives with prostate cancer may also have an increased risk of breast cancer and should get checked and seek medical advice if they are experiencing any symptoms, including swelling, lumps or ulcers on their chest or armpits. Organisations that are part of male-predominant industries, like the NFDC, are promoting health and safety regulations, including regular health screenings for the detection of cancers alongside other regular health checks. Early detection through regular health checks is key in the fight against breast and prostate cancer,” Mr Rudall said. “In both cases, awareness can be the difference between life and loss. Demolition contractors are vigilant on-site when it comes to health and safety, and it is just as important to prioritise healthcare first off-site, too.” Both prostate and breast cancer pose significant health risks – and early detection can lead to better outcomes, early treatment and better recovery. It’s essential staff stay safe on site and off, so don’t wait for symptoms to appear. No one should feel embarrassed to seek medical help. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS), the independent champion for change in construction, has completed the acquisition of the Building a Safer Future (BSF) programme. The programme, which creates positive culture and behaviour change in building safety, was launched in response to the Grenfell Tower fire. It aims to complement a more robust regulatory framework and promote a culture of safety within the built environment. The programme emphasizes accountability, transparency, and the sharing of best practices to ensure that buildings are safe for occupants. All underpinned by third party independent assurance of the reduction in any risk profile. The work of Building a Safer Future is underpinned by a Charter which consists of five commitments. The UK Government encouraged an industry-wide commitment to sign-up to a reformed building safety regulatory system, in its response to the Building a Safer Future consultation. In early 2020, CCS was appointed to take on responsibility for the management of the Charter. CCS subsequently established a new, not-for-profit independent organisation (Building a Safer Future Ltd) with an independent governance structure, to lead and develop the Charter further. Whilst originally conceived to focus on high-rise residential buildings, BSF has extended its scope to cover buildings of all heights, and equally applies, and is relevant to, all construction activity and companies. Companies can apply to become a Registered Signatory of the Charter and/or participate in the Champions programme. The Charter is an important step in driving forward the systemic culture change in relation to major hazard safety that is required across the built environment. The BSF Champion third party assessment gives companies detailed insight into their existing leadership and culture around building safety and equips them with actionable data and practical tools to help review and upgrade processes, driving meaningful and measurable continuous improvement in leadership and culture around building safety. Peter Caplehorn, Non-Executive Director for Considerate Constructors, said: “The acquisition signals our continued commitment to improved safety and standards in the construction industry. Having originally managed the Charter, CCS is the commonsense future home for the BSF business, staff and clients. While having different focal points, we share common goals around safety, collaboration and a culture of improvement.” Graham Watts, Non-Executive Director for Building a Safer Future, added: “We look forward to developing our relationship to support companies in their building safety journeys. Our common purpose is key in helping organisations to meet their requirements, ensuring that risk profiles are reduced across the industry. As the only independent champion for change in the sector, CCS was really the only choice for us.” The financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed. The acquisition follows the recent announcement of a partnership with compliance and risk management leader Veriforce CHAS to broaden CCS inspection monitoring services across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pirtek UK and Ireland, a market leading hydraulics specialist, has launched its Under the Hard Hat campaign to raise awareness of mental health in the hard hat industries. The campaign follows the company’s recent research, which showed that 94% of hard hat workers have struggled with their mental health. The Under the Hard Hat launch event took place at Pirtek’s National Training Centre in Birmingham on the 17th of October, with keynotes delivered by its partners Ollie Ollerton; best known for Channel 4’s ‘SAS: Who Dares Wins’ and author of The Sunday Times bestselling book ‘Break Point’; and Lucas Whitehead, spokesperson at suicide prevention charity, Andy’s Man Club. Given that hard hat industries are often heavily male-dominated, the event emphasised the importance of breaking stigmas associated with men’s mental health. It also provided advice and resources to support mental health awareness on a broader level, regardless of gender. Adam Burrows, Managing Director of Pirtek UK and Ireland, said: “Pirtek provides services to a wide range of hard hat industries, meaning that we are in a unique position to open up more positive conversations surrounding mental health. We are also providing internal support to our network and now have mental health ambassadors in place to help do this”. The event started with Ollie Ollerton, founder of The BreakPoint Academy, sharing his personal experiences with mental health struggles and the steps he has taken to transform his life. This was followed by a presentation by Lucas Whitehead at Andy’s Man Club, which told the story of why the charity was formed and how its groups are helping thousands of men across the country. Ollie Ollerton commented: “I’m passionate about turning my experiences into a force for good by helping people transform their lives, turning mental health into mental wealth. To do this, individuals need to understand the significance of poor mental health, whether they are struggling themselves or not. This starts with spreading awareness and providing a safe space for family, friends, and colleagues to talk. Here is where businesses like Pirtek have the power to make a difference”. This sentiment supports Pirtek’s research on mental health in the hard hat industries as over half of respondents reported feeling uncomfortable or awkward talking about their mental health; four out of ten have taken time off work for mental health reasons; and 41% believe that their workplaces don’t have sufficient mental health support in place. To close the event, a panel discussion was held involving Ollerton and Whitehead along with Pirtek’s QHSE Manager, Martyn Smart and one of Pirtek’s franchise owners, Stuart Brown. Brown was chosen as a panel guest as he runs weekly group sessions on behalf of Andy’s Man Club. For more info about Under the Hard Hat, head to: https://www.pirtek.co.uk/under-the-hard-hat/ To find an Andy’s Man Club support group near you, please visit: https://andysmanclub.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced a comprehensive new set of standards for property professionals: the ‘Property Agency and Management Principles’. This global guideline is set to redefine best practices in property agency and management, applying to RICS members and RICS-regulated firms across residential, commercial, auctioneering, and mixed-use real estate. These standards, mandatory from 1 January 2025, aim to address the evolving demands of the real estate industry, with a strong focus on transparency, integrity, and customer confidence. A core objective of the new guidelines is to protect consumer interests and bolster the reputation of surveyors, reinforcing trust in the profession. Guiding Principles: RICS Rules of Conduct The principles draw from five essential RICS rules of conduct: Developing a Standard of Excellence The standard was developed by a team led by Kelly Smith, COO of letting and management at Allsop, with RICS senior property specialist Mairéad Carroll serving as lead author. Carroll commented, “This important standard sets clear expectations for RICS professionals when providing property agency and management services. These mandatory standards will enhance customer service and confidence in the essential services surveyors provide worldwide.” To support members in implementing these new guidelines, RICS will offer webinars and educational resources in the months leading up to the 2025 launch. Through this proactive approach, RICS aims to ensure that property management professionals are well-equipped to meet rising industry standards, paving the way for greater transparency, professionalism, and trust in real estate services globally. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ireland’s championship golf courses are world-renowned, combining breathtaking landscapes with high-calibre design. Known for rugged coastlines, expansive dunes, and lush parklands, Irish golf courses offer not only a challenge to players but also a stunning experience that has captivated players worldwide. Building these courses, however, is an intricate art, involving a blend of meticulous design, respect for natural terrain, and an understanding of modern technology—especially with the growing trend of in-game betting. Building Championship-Calibre Golf Courses: Melding Design and Nature Designing a championship golf course in Ireland starts with understanding the natural lay of the land. Legendary architects like Eddie Hackett, Tom Fazio, and Martin Hawtree have contributed to creating layouts that reflect the essence of the landscape. A key challenge in Irish golf course design is working with the unique elements—ranging from coastal winds to undulating terrains—that not only challenge players but also preserve the natural surroundings. Courses such as Royal County Down and Lahinch, to name a few, have been crafted to reflect traditional links-style design while meeting modern expectations for championship tournaments. This involves specific adjustments, like expanded teeing grounds for longer hitters and positioning bunkers and water hazards strategically to test player skill at every level. Even minor tweaks, like angling greens to catch the wind, show the detailed planning that goes into each course. Construction Techniques: Crafting Courses for Performance and Sustainability Constructing these courses involves significant attention to environmental sustainability. Many Irish courses, particularly coastal links, operate in fragile ecosystems. Using eco-friendly practices, builders work to minimise impact, relying on sustainable turf management, careful water conservation, and locally sourced materials. For instance, sand-based soil mixes help drainage and reduce the need for chemical treatments, while native grasses minimise irrigation requirements. Integrating Technology: Enhancing the Golf Betting Experience As technology evolves, championship courses are becoming increasingly high-tech. In Ireland, where golf betting has surged, especially around major tournaments, course technology is now playing a role in enhancing the betting experience. Advances like live tracking systems allow betting platforms to integrate player performance data in real time, enabling sportsbooks to offer dynamic odds that adjust instantly to each shot. For example, a golfer’s odds can shift dramatically with a birdie or a bogey, allowing bettors to adapt their strategies based on live-action analytics. Fast-Paced Betting and Irish Courses With advanced ball-tracking systems and player stats fed directly from courses, bettors now have unprecedented access to live data. The top Irish courses, especially those regularly featured on the European and PGA tours, have embraced these changes. Now, events at courses such as Ballyliffin or Portmarnock not only provide gripping live golf action but also enable instant betting odds that adjust in milliseconds, meeting the demands of fast-paced sports betting. The Rising Popularity of Golf Betting and the Influence of Betinireland.ie Irish bettors are particularly enthusiastic about wagering on golf, given the unpredictable nature of the sport. With events lasting multiple days, odds fluctuate in response to player performance, wind conditions, and unexpected course challenges. Betinireland.ie has teamed up to deliver top golf betting insights, helping bettors stay informed by offering insights on popular Irish tournaments and player form. This allows fans to back multiple players and adjust their bets based on real-time tournament progression, a strategy often advantageous in tournaments with a deep field and unpredictable weather—a hallmark of Irish golf. For example, Betinireland.ie provides Irish bettors with guides on wagering strategies, such as betting on a player after the cut or hedging bets across several potential winners. Given the technology-infused tracking on Irish championship courses, bettors can make informed choices with instant data on player performance, taking golf betting to an entirely new level. The Future of Championship Courses in Ireland: Tradition Meets Innovation Irish championship courses continue to evolve, blending natural beauty and demanding design with cutting-edge technology. With innovations aimed at both enhancing player experience and catering to the betting industry, these courses are set to maintain their reputation for excellence. They are places where tradition meets the needs of modern audiences, appealing not only to passionate golfers but also to a growing community of informed bettors. As golf betting continues to rise, Ireland’s golf courses are primed to remain at the forefront, offering a thrilling mix of sport, natural splendour, and the chance to engage in live-action betting. With Betinireland.ie’s expert insights, bettors can feel confident in their bets as they follow the thrilling changes that each course, each player, and each hole bring to the game.
John Lewis has launched the first stages of a sweeping multimillion-pound investment across its stores, starting with significant upgrades to its Oxford Street flagship and stores in High Wycombe and Cheadle. These locations are among the first to showcase expanded beauty halls and refreshed shopping spaces designed to enhance the in-store experience. The Oxford Street store stands out with upgrades across all six floors, modernising departments including home, technology, jewellery, and electricals. Shoppers will also soon be able to enjoy a new Jamie Oliver Cookery School, set to open in spring 2025, marking an exciting collaboration with the renowned chef. Additionally, a Waterstones concession was recently unveiled in-store, part of an impressive £800 million investment aimed at elevating John Lewis’ offerings. Peter Ruis, Executive Director for John Lewis, shared his enthusiasm: “There’s a renewed energy in John Lewis, and we’re committed to giving customers even more reasons to shop in our exceptional stores. We’re investing heavily to ensure customers continue to enjoy the quality, service, and value they expect from our brand.” Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, added, “John Lewis’ continued investment in Oxford Street underscores London’s status as a top destination for beauty and fashion retail. The upcoming Jamie Oliver Cookery School and new Waterstones concession bring fresh, exciting elements to the Oxford Street store, enriching the experience for locals and visitors alike. This is the kind of investment we need to help revitalise Oxford Street and build a thriving, prosperous London.” These latest enhancements reflect John Lewis’ commitment to creating vibrant, immersive shopping environments that appeal to today’s customers while supporting the wider regeneration of London’s iconic retail spaces. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
York’s historic riverside is set for a stunning transformation as Helmsley Group’s ambitious Coney Street Riverside masterplan receives approval from the City of York Council’s planning committee. The masterplan, which will bring new life to a long-overlooked area, was praised by council members, who lauded Helmsley’s commitment to community engagement and revitalisation of York’s iconic waterfront. “This scheme is long overdue and will be a real positive for York,” noted Councillor Jonny Crawshaw, Chair of the planning committee, who highlighted the importance of restoring listed buildings with sensitivity. With nearly unanimous support, the council approved both the masterplan and a separate listed building application. The Coney Street Riverside project will introduce 250,000 square feet of diverse retail, leisure, commercial, and residential spaces, reimagining York’s historic core with a strong focus on community accessibility and sustainable design. The project includes creating a riverside walkway, which will enhance public access to the River Ouse, along with revitalising the historic lanes connecting Coney Street to the river. Notably, the site encompasses a cluster of listed buildings and structures of local significance within York’s Central Conservation Area, offering a unique opportunity to blend heritage with modern development. Among those in support was prominent disability campaigner Flick Williams, who called Helmsley’s inclusive design approach “a breath of fresh air,” and Andrew Lowson, Executive Director of York BID, who emphasised the project’s potential to rejuvenate one of York’s most valuable areas. Max Reeves, Development Director at Helmsley Group, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “This project offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to restore historic Coney Street as the social heart of York, reconnecting it with the riverfront.” With over 40 years of local development experience, Helmsley Group has committed to long-term investment in the project and anticipates beginning on-site work by 2026, barring any planning conditions. Pending the Secretary of State’s review on certain listed building elements, the plan is set to proceed with a dedicated team from Helmsley Group, brown + company, O’Neill Associates, and others. This transformative project aims to forge a dynamic and inclusive riverside destination, breathing new life into York’s cherished urban landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Real estate investment firm Castleforge has clinched a substantial £115 million loan to support the redevelopment of the iconic Grade II-listed 1 Golden Lane office building in London’s Square Mile. This significant funding will enable Castleforge to bring to life an ambitious vision for the site, reflecting its commitment to creating sustainable and adaptable modern workplaces. With planning approval already granted by the City of London, the project will transform 1 Golden Lane into a cutting-edge, eco-conscious office space. On completion, the building will provide approximately 115,000 square feet of premier office accommodation, right in the heart of London’s financial hub. This redevelopment aligns closely with Castleforge’s research-led investment approach, focusing on enhancing property value through strategic operational improvements. The financing, secured through Cheyne Capital Management and Apollo Global Management, highlights investor confidence in Castleforge’s vision and in the enduring demand for high-quality office spaces within London’s business centre, despite the evolving landscape of commercial real estate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
