Kenneth Booth
Iconic Gull Wing bridge open

Iconic Gull Wing bridge open

Thousands of Lowestoft residents made history today as they walked, wheeled and drove for the first time across the town’s new world-leading and unique Gull Wing bridge. Lowestoft’s long-awaited third Lake Lothing crossing, which opened to the public on Saturday 7 September – heralds a new era of connectivity and

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4 Factors Driving Innovation in Construction Sustainability

4 Factors Driving Innovation in Construction Sustainability

Construction sustainability is more than a trend. It’s essential for our future. New regulations, innovative materials, and energy-efficient technologies are transforming how we build. You will discover the key factors driving this shift toward greener practices. Explore how these elements create smarter, more responsible construction methods that benefit everyone involved.

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Electrician Career Guide: Choosing Your Specialization 

Electrician Career Guide: Choosing Your Specialization 

The field of electrical work offers various opportunities for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, working with their hands, and ensuring that power systems run smoothly. As an electrician, you can choose from multiple specializations. Whether you’re starting your career or considering a shift in focus, selecting the right specialization is a critical

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British Land Expands Retail Park Portfolio with £240m Acquisitions

British Land Expands Retail Park Portfolio with £240m Acquisitions

British Land has bolstered its leading retail park portfolio with £240 million worth of acquisitions, reflecting a strong blended net equivalent yield of 7.4%. These strategic acquisitions align with the company’s plan to reinvest the £360 million from the sale of its stake in Meadowhall Shopping Centre into expanding its

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Latest Issue
Issue 329 : Jun 2025

Kenneth Booth

Iconic Gull Wing bridge open

Iconic Gull Wing bridge open

Thousands of Lowestoft residents made history today as they walked, wheeled and drove for the first time across the town’s new world-leading and unique Gull Wing bridge. Lowestoft’s long-awaited third Lake Lothing crossing, which opened to the public on Saturday 7 September – heralds a new era of connectivity and regeneration for the town. The new multi-million pound bridge, built on behalf of Suffolk County Council by leading civil engineering contractor Farrans, is a significant step forward for Lowestoft and promises to bring both immediate and long-term benefits to the town, its businesses and residents. Cllr Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said: “Today is a significant moment in Lowestoft’s proud history, and it was wonderful to see so many local people being part of it. “The people of Lowestoft have waited decades for a third river crossing. Suffolk County Council promised to build it, and we have. I am delighted that we have delivered on that promise. “The Gull Wing will not only serve as a vital transport link between north and south Lowestoft, but also stands as an iconic new landmark for the town. It represents a new era of development and prosperity for Lowestoft. I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community.” The bridge not only addresses longstanding issues with traffic congestion but will also act as a catalyst for economic growth, attracting new investment and positioning Lowestoft as a dynamic and forward-looking commercial centre and community. By providing another route over Lake Lothing, the Gull Wing bridge will significantly ease traffic congestion in the town centre, shortening journey times and improving journey reliability. Modern cycle and pedestrian facilities on either side will encourage more sustainable modes of transport and better connect communities on the north and south of the waterway. The bridge is expected to attract new businesses and trade to the area, create new job opportunities and to streamline logistics and transportation – laying the foundation for continued growth in the town and surrounding area for many decades to come. Tristram Browne, Project Manager at Farrans, said: “Our team is proud to have delivered the iconic Gull Wing Bridge for the town of Lowestoft. We have been able to leave a lasting legacy not only with the completion of the bridge but also through our programme of social value and stakeholder engagement. During the delivery of this project we have employed 76 local people, provided apprenticeships, volunteered on local community projects and donated significant sums to local charities. “We have brought the region on the journey of the bridge build with us, creating some memorable sights with the arrival of the bridge and bascule sections. It has been a pleasure to work on such a complex, technical project and we would like to thank the local community for their support.” A rolling road closure will be in effect on the morning of Sunday 8th September, as the Tour of Britain crosses the Gull Wing during their preliminary ride-out ahead of the final stage between Lowestoft and Felixstowe. The formal civic opening and naming ceremony for the bridge is set to take place on Tuesday 19th November. Additional details will be provided closer to the date. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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4 Factors Driving Innovation in Construction Sustainability

4 Factors Driving Innovation in Construction Sustainability

Construction sustainability is more than a trend. It’s essential for our future. New regulations, innovative materials, and energy-efficient technologies are transforming how we build. You will discover the key factors driving this shift toward greener practices. Explore how these elements create smarter, more responsible construction methods that benefit everyone involved. Join me as we dive into practical insights. Let’s uncover what makes sustainable construction not just possible but vital for today and tomorrow. 1. Regulations Shaping the Future of Green Building Regulations play a crucial role in shaping sustainable construction. Governments worldwide push for stricter environmental standards, which encourage builders to adopt greener practices.  New codes promote energy efficiency and reduce waste, influencing everything from material choices to project designs. This clearly propels innovation in the field.  Constructors who adopt these standards do more than meet requirements; they secure a competitive advantage. Such changes make certain that sustainability is woven into the fabric of upcoming building endeavors, to the benefit of humanity and the environment alike. 2. Sustainable Wastewater Management: The Role of MBBRs Wastewater management stands at the forefront of construction sustainability. Advanced MBBR solutions streamline treatment processes, making them more efficient and environmentally friendly.  These systems utilize biofilm technology to enhance nutrient removal while minimizing energy consumption. By integrating such innovative approaches, builders can ensure cleaner water processes that support eco-friendly transformation efforts in the industry.  Effective wastewater management not only meets regulatory standards but also contributes significantly to a project’s overall sustainability profile, paving the way for greener communities. 3. Breakthrough Materials Revolutionizing Construction Practices  Innovative materials are changing the landscape of construction. Builders now have access to options that promote sustainability and efficiency, including: These breakthroughs not only lower environmental impact but also enhance overall project performance, leading to a more sustainable future in construction. 4. Energy Efficiency Technologies Leading the Charge  Energy efficiency technologies are transforming construction practices and reducing environmental impact. Smart building systems now allow real-time monitoring of energy consumption, enabling adjustments that save resources.  Solar panels continue to gain traction, providing renewable energy solutions on-site. Advanced HVAC systems improve climate control while minimizing waste. These advancements do more than merely reduce overhead for property owners; they also amplify comfort and well-being for occupants.  With technology’s relentless progression, anticipate an assortment of increasingly energy-efficient choices driving the construction sector towards heightened sustainability. Moving Forward: Strategies for Long-Term Impact  In plotting the course of construction’s future, anchoring in sustainable practices is essential. Firms ought to channel investment into educating their workforce and amassing tools that champion environmentally conscious techniques.  Forging alliances with stakeholders underpins a collective commitment to sustainability targets. Embracing avant-garde technologies and diligent compliance with ecological standards empowers the sector to forge significant progress in crafting edifices that favor both the present and future populace.

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Electrician Career Guide: Choosing Your Specialization 

Electrician Career Guide: Choosing Your Specialization 

The field of electrical work offers various opportunities for individuals who enjoy problem-solving, working with their hands, and ensuring that power systems run smoothly. As an electrician, you can choose from multiple specializations. Whether you’re starting your career or considering a shift in focus, selecting the right specialization is a critical step to align your professional path with your skills, interests, and long-term goals.  But how do you decide which path to take? In this guide, we’ll explore the various electrician career options and what each specialization entails.  Why Specialization Matters in the Electrician Industry  Typically, the choice to specialize allows electricians to hone their expertise in a specific field, which can lead to increased job security, higher wages, and greater job satisfaction. As technology evolves and industries become more complex, specialization offers the opportunity to stay ahead of the curve by mastering the intricate skills needed for a particular sector. It also helps electricians become more valuable to employers who are seeking experts in niche areas, making it easier to stand out in a competitive market.  Furthermore, specializing can offer long-term career stability. For instance, in certain industries, such as industrial settings or construction business, the need for skilled electricians continues to grow, creating steady demand for those who focus on these areas.  Exploring Different Electrician Specializations  Electricians have a variety of specializations to choose from, each offering distinct job environments and skill requirements. Here are some of the most popular options:  Industrial Electrician  Industrial electricians are specialists who work in factories, manufacturing plants, and other industrial settings. Their work involves maintaining and repairing large electrical systems used to power machinery, automation systems, and other critical industrial equipment.   Industrial electricians also often deal with high-voltage systems and complex electrical networks, making this specialization one of the most technically demanding. They’re also responsible for keeping production lines running smoothly by working under tight deadlines and in high-pressure situations.  However, it’s essential to know that when choosing this path, understanding the differences between industrial vs construction electrician is crucial, as each specialization offers distinct work environments and responsibilities. By doing so, you’ll know which specialization suits you best.   Residential Electrician  Residential electricians focus on installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in private homes, apartments, and small residential buildings. Their work involves wiring houses for electricity, troubleshooting electrical issues, and ensuring homes meet safety codes.   Furthermore, residential electricians often work directly with homeowners and contractors, which makes communication skills an important part of the job. This specialization offers a stable career with consistent demand, as every home requires some form of electrical service, from new buildings to older properties needing upgrades.  Commercial Electrician  Commercial electricians work in office buildings, retail spaces, hospitals, and schools. Their tasks include installing electrical systems in commercial buildings, maintaining existing systems, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.   In contrast to residential electricians, commercial electricians typically handle larger projects with more complex systems. They also often work as part of a team, coordinating with other professionals like architects, engineers, and building managers.   Lastly, the scope of work for commercial electricians is broader, as they deal with advanced systems like emergency power backups, lighting controls, and security systems. This specialization is also ideal if you prefer a structured work environment and enjoy working on large-scale projects.  Construction Electrician  Construction electricians work on new construction projects, wiring buildings during the construction phase. This may include installing electrical panels, outlets, lighting, and building-wide systems like fire alarms and HVAC controls. They also work closely with contractors and construction teams to ensure the electrical systems are properly integrated into the new structures.  Moreover, this specialization requires a strong understanding of building codes and safety regulations, as construction electricians must ensure that the electrical systems they install comply with legal requirements. The work is physically demanding and often involves working in tight or elevated spaces.    Maintenance Electrician  Maintenance electricians are responsible for maintaining electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and make repairs to ensure electrical systems remain functional and safe.   While maintenance electricians often work in various settings, organizations frequently employ them to maintain the electrical systems in one building or set of buildings. This specialization is perfect if you enjoy steady, hands-on work and problem-solving in real-time.  Automotive Electrician  Automotive electricians specialize in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining the electrical systems found in vehicles such as cars, trucks, and buses. Their work involves troubleshooting issues with wiring, lighting, ignition systems, and other electronic components essential to vehicle operation.   As electric vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, the role of automotive electricians is expanding, which requires an understanding of sophisticated EV technologies, including battery systems and electric motors. This specialization is critical for ensuring modern vehicles, especially EVs, operate safely and efficiently.   Marine Electrician  Marine electricians work on electrical systems aboard ships, yachts, and other watercraft. Their tasks involve installing, maintaining, and repairing systems like navigation lights, communication devices, and power distribution networks. Working in marine environments presents unique challenges, such as dealing with corrosion and moisture, making this specialization suitable for those who enjoy problem-solving in tough conditions.  Additionally, marine electricians often travel to different ports and shipyards, making this a potentially adventurous career path for those who love the sea and prefer a more nomadic lifestyle.  Key Considerations When Choosing a Specialization   Choosing an electrician specialization is not a decision to take lightly, as it will significantly impact your daily tasks, job environment, and career trajectory. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which path to take:  Personal Interests and Skills  When choosing an electrician specialization, personal interests and skills should be at the forefront. If you enjoy solving intricate electrical problems or working with complex systems, industrial or commercial sectors may suit your talents.   Alternatively, if you prefer hands-on projects with immediate results, residential work could be ideal. By identifying your strengths in areas like troubleshooting, attention to detail, and problem-solving, you can

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British Land Expands Retail Park Portfolio with £240m Acquisitions

British Land Expands Retail Park Portfolio with £240m Acquisitions

British Land has bolstered its leading retail park portfolio with £240 million worth of acquisitions, reflecting a strong blended net equivalent yield of 7.4%. These strategic acquisitions align with the company’s plan to reinvest the £360 million from the sale of its stake in Meadowhall Shopping Centre into expanding its retail park footprint. These acquisitions are set to enhance British Land’s earnings, with projections indicating an increase in FY26 earnings per share by 0.7p, fully offsetting the dilution from the Meadowhall sale. Pro forma leverage, following the Meadowhall disposal, was 34.6% for FY24, with the new acquisitions raising this by 1.8%. The six retail parks acquired since April feature an impressive weighted average unexpired lease term of five years. They are let to strong multi-channel and essential retailers, known for their stable financial performance: Simon Carter, Chief Executive of British Land, commented on the acquisitions:“We’re seeing great opportunities to invest in retail parks, and we’ve quickly delivered on our plan to fully offset the earnings dilution from the £360 million Meadowhall sale with the acquisition of £240 million in high-quality retail parks at attractive yields. With low capital expenditure requirements and 99% occupancy, our retail parks portfolio is generating strong rental growth and offers attractive cash returns.” British Land’s investment in these prime retail parks highlights its commitment to capitalising on opportunities within the retail sector, ensuring strong returns while continuing to grow its portfolio across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Countryside and Abri appoint Rund as Joint Venture Supervisor on major residential development

Countryside and Abri appoint Rund as Joint Venture Supervisor on major residential development

Rund has been appointed as Countryside and Abri’s Joint Venture Supervisor for a significant development on the former Ford Airfield in West Sussex. The plan will transform the site with a 60-bed care home and 1,500 homes, of which 960 of the homes form the joint venture with the remainder retained by Vistry Group. This includes shared ownership, first home and rental tenures. A minimum of 30% will be affordable housing, with a further 20% allocated as either build to rent (BTR) or additional affordable housing. Alongside this, the development is set to bring multiple benefits to the community, including plans for a new local centre with commercial and retail amenities, extensive community and leisure facilities, allocated land for a new primary school, and expansive public areas such as sports fields and allotments. As Joint Venture Supervisor, Rund will manage and facilitate decisions between all parties to understand and advise, where necessary, on all aspects and phases of the construction programme. The expert team will help ensure long-term positive relationships by providing regular reporting, support, review of financial modelling, and guidance in board meetings, to keep the project moving forward whilst maintaining a duty of care to Countryside and Abri and their partners. Leading to this appointment Rund provided Technical Due Diligence services to Abri, a large housing provider with more than 50,000 home and various community assets, on its 50/50 joint venture acquisition of the former Ford Airfield, as part of the JV acquisition with Countryside. The expert team provided technical due diligence surveys and reports focused on risk identification, mitigation and management as well as development funding agreements, carefully tailored to Abri’s requirements. Rund’s role has been instrumental in structuring a deal that works for both partners, giving them confidence in the site’s potential from the earliest stage. Jo Rothery, Senior Surveyor at Rund commented, “We’re looking forward to working with the team on this significant project, using our experience to make sure it delivers the best outcomes at all stages. This is a substantial project that is set to significantly impact the supply of affordable housing in West Sussex, and bring extensive benefits to the local community. “Rund understands the complete process to achieve success for JV stakeholders and has a proven track record, with the team currently working on leading JV and strategic developments nationwide, totalling over 10,000 residential units.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Local community broadly welcome regen plans for Grey Mare Lane estate following consultation

Local community broadly welcome regen plans for Grey Mare Lane estate following consultation

The regeneration masterplan for the Grey Mare Lane estate has been met with broad approval from the east Manchester community a new report going to the Council executive committee (Weds 11 September) has concluded.  The Council-built estate is more than 50years old and represents a key regeneration location as part of the ongoing transformation of east Manchester. (See notes to editors)  An 8-week consultation started in May this year and gathered feedback from local people via both online submissions and an in-person engagement event held in the estate. A community steering group made up of residents, elected members and Council officers also meet regularly to discuss and input into the planning process for the estate investment.   The masterplan is a high-level overview of the regeneration opportunities within the estate, which envisages a highly sustainable investment programme that will deliver at least 1,000 new homes – including a significant number of affordable homes and new green spaces.   Feedback from local residents included:  This feedback will be included in the final masterplan document for the estate, which will help guide investment in the area in the years to come.  Future investment in the Grey Mare Lane estate will include:  Architect BDP have delivered the masterplan on behalf of the Grey Mare Lane partnership.    First Development sites – update  Concurrently with the masterplan consultation, Great Places Housing Group undertook targeted engagement around their development site at the corner of Grey Mare Lane and Ashton New Road.   The proposed scheme will deliver a block of 69 apartments for social rent providing a landmark gateway development into the Masterplan area.      A planning application for this site is expected to be submitted in the Autumn.   At the same time, One Manchester is continuing to prepare their development sites and demolitions are ongoing to enable future development.   Any affected residents have been part of this conversation for some time and we have made a commitment that anyone who has had to move to allow the regeneration of the estate will have the right to return to the estate if they want to.   Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said:    “The feedback we receive directly from local people – both through the consultation and the community steering group – is quite often the most impactful. Knowing what a neighbourhood needs is best explained by the very people who live and use the area every day.   “Through this investment we will see at least 1,000 new homes – including lots of affordable homes – a new heart and focal point of the estate with new shops and community facilities, and lots more green and play spaces.   “Thank you to everyone who took part – your feedback will help guide future development proposals for the Grey Mare Lane estate, and we’re looking forward to the first planning applications being submitted late this year.”  Helen Spencer, Executive Director of Growth at Great Places, said:    “We’re delighted to see the community’s positive response to the Grey Mare Lane estate regeneration plans. The project is a great opportunity to provide much-needed affordable housing in the area and vibrant green spaces, enhancing residents’ quality of life.  “The feedback will provide invaluable input to ensure our planned developments meet the community’s needs, and we look forward to continuing to work with Manchester City Council, One Manchester, and This City to bring this vision to life.”  Barry Wears, Chief Financial Officer, One Manchester, said:  “It’s great to see things moving forward for the community. As we prepare our development sites and carry out necessary demolitions to make improvements for the community, we’re committed to making sure any affected residents are part of the conversation. We’ve pledged that those who’ve had to move due to the works will have the right to return to the estate if they want to. Our ongoing collaboration with partners and keeping the community involved will make sure that the development will boost the area and support the needs of local residents.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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TaperedPlus partners with Alt Labs to revolutionise roofing sector with Augmented Reality system

TaperedPlus partners with Alt Labs to revolutionise roofing sector with Augmented Reality system

TaperedPlus, a national leader in the design and supply of flat roofing and insulation systems, is currently evaluating a bespoke Augmented Reality (AR) system that could prove a gamechanger within the roofing industry. Developed by award-winning digital innovators Alt Labs on behalf of the Teesside-headquartered company, the software enables smartphones and tablets to be used to scan a flat roof, providing instant and highly accurate measurements. Unlike other applications currently being used within the roofing industry, it does not require significant investment in hardware or expensive monthly subscription packages, which can cost many thousands of pounds per user per year. The Alt Labs technology automatically uploads the data to TaperedPlus’s internal system, converting it into technical blueprints – a process at least ten times quicker than traditional measuring methods, particularly when applied to complex flat roof designs. It also eliminates the element of human error. Alt Labs, based in Middlesbrough, was approached by TaperedPlus to deliver a solution that would enhance efficiency. It developed bespoke software utilising light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors incorporated into Apple smartphones and iPads. This uses light emitted from a sensor to measure the range to a target object, allowing augmented reality to place markers that plot key points of a roof for precise measurements. The technology is both highly secure and easily scalable and can be adapted for immersive technology, including Virtual Reality headsets. Part of TaperedPlus’s ambitious growth plans, the project follows a recent £5.5 million investment by equity investor BGF along with achieving B Corp accreditation, reflecting its commitment to targeting inefficiency within its procedures. It is also working with academics at Teesside University as part of a separate initiative to develop a unique system that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to streamline its technical drawing processes. Aman Chahal, co-founder and CEO of TaperedPlus, said: “We are thrilled to be at the forefront of technological innovation within the roofing industry. This AR system will significantly enhance our efficiency and accuracy, allowing us to better serve our customers and contribute to more sustainable building practices. The integration of AR and AI marks a significant milestone in our digital transformation, opening up new possibilities for growth and innovation.” Imran Anwar, CEO of Alt Labs, added: “Our bespoke solution leverages cutting-edge technology to transform how roof measurements are captured and processed, setting new standards for the industry. This technology is not only innovative but versatile, with the potential for wide-ranging applications across multiple sectors. By utilising LiDAR and augmented reality, we are able to provide unprecedented accuracy and efficiency, which could prove a real gamechanger.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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CRL and Tunley Environmental Partner to Drive Green Construction Solutions

CRL and Tunley Environmental Partner to Drive Green Construction Solutions

With over 65 years of experience, Concrete Repairs Limited (CRL) has built a strong reputation in the repair and refurbishment industry based on their outstanding quality of work and innovative engineering. As one of the leading specialist contractors in the UK, CRL offers comprehensive services that are by their nature sustainable to inspect, repair, rehabilitate, and strengthen structural concrete assets in various sectors, including Highways, Water, Marine, Nuclear & Power. In order to expedite their sustainability and social value aims and goals, CRL recently entered into a partnership with Tunley Environmental. As they begin their new financial year, their focus on building a sustainable future for all and reinforcing their goals will be bolstered by the strong support of Tunley Environmental. Following the measurement principles BS EN ISO 14064-1 and the Greenhouse protocol for SERC reporting, CRL and Tunley will work together to accurately baseline existing carbon usage and produce a targeted carbon reduction plan for the business. Steve Jones Southern Regional Director at CRL said “CRL are delighted to be working with Tunley Environmental to develop our Carbon reporting and subsequent reduction plans, as well as the production of lifecycle assessments for our repair processes that will be used in conjunction with procedures for PAS2080”. “We are pleased to join forces with CRL, supporting them in their sustainability journey,” said Dr William Beer, CEO at Tunley Environmental. “It’s brilliant to have the opportunity to work with such a well renowned company in the repair and refurbishment industry”. As proud supporters of the Institution of Civil Engineers, their work strongly incorporates the guidelines laid down by ICE’s Carbon Project Initiative. This will include working with Tunley Environmental to gain PAS2080 accreditation for the project management of carbon in infrastructure incorporating lifecycle assessments in line with ISO 14067 to demonstrate the carbon credentials of asset maintenance using repairs, coatings and corrosion control systems. With Tunley Environmental in partnership, CRL looks forward to delivering significant change and furthering their sustainable and social value initiatives, backed up by quality data and meaningful assessments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Harlyn wins third Oceans Winds project to collect and store spare inter array cables at Moray West

Harlyn wins third Oceans Winds project to collect and store spare inter array cables at Moray West

North East-based Harlyn Solutions Ltd (Harlyn) has signed an agreement with Ocean Winds for the collection, storage, and emergency preparedness of Moray West’s spare inter array cables (IACs).  Moray West is a new offshore wind farm in the outer Moray Firth and this exciting project is set to make a vital contribution to Scotland’s renewable energy and climate change targets. Moray West is overseen by Ocean Winds, the 50/50 joint venture between EDP Renewables and ENGIE. Moray West, a key part of the energy transition and the drive to Net Zero emissions, started generating power to the grid in July and will consist of 60 wind turbines, each with a generating capacity of 14.7 megawatts. Harlyn, a UK engineering company, has been appointed to collect and store the spare inter array cables at its facility in the Port of Blyth. This comes after Harlyn successfully delivered two other projects for Moray West, including the transportation of both substations and the cleaning of monopiles infield.  Harlyn has an excellent track record of delivering flexibles. Last year, the engineering company designed bespoke baskets to transport two fibre optic cables and also delivered six 1,500 tonne baskets of flexible pipe.  Hamish Adamson, managing director of Harlyn, said: “I am thrilled that our unique problem-solving approach to projects has been picked up and understood by Ocean Winds. Our teams have worked hand-in-hand across multiple scopes and this long-term project shows the dependability of the team we have at Harlyn as being the partner of choice for these complex challenges.” Pete Geddes, Moray West Project Director at Ocean Winds, said: “We’re delighted to be using Harlyn to store our cables in the UK. Delivering local content is important to Ocean Winds and working with Harlyn for a third scope we are able to support a thoroughly competent UK supplier.”  Joanna Stewart, Harlyn project manager, said: “I am excited to be leading on and delivering this complex multi-disciplinary project collecting the cables and storing them for years to come. It highlights the skills and expertise that Harlyn has to offer, from complex project management through to detailed spooling and flexible engineering.” The work will be delivered over the next few months before the cables and cable accessories will enter storage. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Ramboll launches District One platform to advance UK’s district heat networks

Ramboll launches District One platform to advance UK’s district heat networks

Heat networks in the UK are on the verge of a transformational development. Through the UK government’s 2050 Net Zero ambitions, targets are in place to increase district heat networks from 3% today to 20% by 2050, alongside the National Heat Network Zoning Policy, the number and extent of heat networks is expected to increase substantially. To effectively support with the delivery of the planned roll out of district heat networks, Ramboll has developed District One, an AI-optimised heat network design platform. District One will support landowners, energy companies, developers, and national and local government authorities explore potential heat network routes, using a bespoke spatial machine learning algorithm that rapidly generates intelligent designs. Using local data, District One is designed to assist with the installing of citywide heating and cooling network routes, significantly speeding up their design by identifying the best-suited areas for the installation of heating networks. The platform has already demonstrated its applicability, with District One having been used to create a combined multi-nodal district energy network consisting of 12 independently operating but connected systems. This case study showed that District One can increase the accuracy of a business case when deployed onto a citywide zonal programme by enabling existing infrastructure plans to be more quickly incorporated into modelling. Crucially the use of District One, which avoids reliance on the usual ‘rules of thumb’, enabled a far more accurate design and cost estimation of district heating network assets than would be typically expected for master planning projects on this scale. Commenting on the launch of the District One platform, Guy Milligan, Head of Department – District Energy at Ramboll said: “Heating and cooling networks will have a vital role to play in decarbonising the ways we heat our homes and communities, as well as providing a more affordable alternative to, for instance, individual gas boilers. “We expect to see a significant expansion of heat networks over the coming years, and are pleased to be able to support this through our development of the District One platform, which provides city-scale mapping, allows for more collaborative discussions between stakeholders and more informed decisions early on in the network planning process.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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