November 2023, London: Following on from successful shows in both the UK and the Netherlands this year, Workspace Design Show is pleased to announce the first names to be added to the speaker programme for its London 2024 show. Held from 27-28 February 2024 at the Business Design Centre, Islington,
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has awarded its first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer (CIE) title to Chris Landsburgh, a Decarbonisation Director at infrastructure consulting firm AECOM. Chris has been involved in the infrastructure sector for over 10 years and specialises in decarbonising infrastructure. He provides advice on net zero plans,
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced changes to continuing professional development (CPD) for its chartered members. 1 January 2024 will see the introduction of simplified rules – removing the need for members to assign points or learning levels to their CPD activities – and more robust compliance.
The employee-owned Cragg Vale-based business, Craggs Energy is delighted to have won two awards at the most recent Calderdale Business Awards. The company, known for its excellence in fuel distribution, has been honoured with the titles of Employer of the Year and Business of the Year, solidifying its position as
Teagan Hudson has been promoted to Improvement and Compliance Manager, which is a newly created role at award-winning Leeds based contractor Priestley Construction. Teagan will be responsible for updating and revising the company’s processes and systems to ensure they are as efficient and effective as possible. She will also oversee
The terms under the new Building Safety Act 2022 became enforceable from October 1st this year. Here, Bob Glendenning, Fire Design Engineering Manager of Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings, examines why creating a ‘Golden Thread’ of information within the new legislation is so important for those involved in the intumescent
For those that own and manage large-scale commercial, industrial, and residential buildings, effective life safety systems are critical. Aside from legal obligation, compliant systems ensure risk is managed appropriately, particularly mitigating the threat of fire and smoke. The latter is where Colt comes in. A pioneer and market leader in
Work is complete on a stunning and luxurious new care home in Sleaford that offers 67-bedrooms alongside first-class amenities, with the first residents now moving into their new homes. Sleaford Manor is the latest development in Brough headquartered Yorkare’s portfolio of care homes which are located throughout Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
McAleer & Rushe has been awarded the £60m contract to deliver a 196-unit residential development in London Road, Barking by Yara Capital. The vacant site and former bus depot will transform into a mixed-use development providing 125 Build to Rent and 71 affordable housing apartments. The building which will range
Despite the industry seeing real forward momentum in attracting more women into the industry, the lack of women in senior real estate roles is a worrying trend, caused by a lack of retention. For the industry to continue to move forward this must be addressed. Clare Coe and Nina Zeilerbauer,
November 2023, London: Following on from successful shows in both the UK and the Netherlands this year, Workspace Design Show is pleased to announce the first names to be added to the speaker programme for its London 2024 show. Held from 27-28 February 2024 at the Business Design Centre, Islington, the event will feature an impressive mix of senior professionals from architects and designers to developers and end users, who will come together to discuss the most pressing issues facing the workplace design community now and into the future. Confirmed speakers so far include Helen Berresford, Head of ID:SR, Sheppard Robson, Golnaz Ighany, Sustainability Director, BDP, Collin Burry, Design Principal, Gensler and Oliver Hall, Partner – Architecture and Sustainability at Make Architects. Representatives from occupiers include Louise Sheppard, UK Head of Workplace Services & Social Sustainability, Zurich and Sue Glew, Programme Director, The Better Workplace Programme, British Telecom, and Neil Usher, VP Places, Sage, with other highly-experienced industry professionals including Guzman de Yurza, Global Head of Workplace Strategy Capability, JLL and Sally Marshall, Director, Turner & Townsend. The speaker programme will delve into the most urgent topics confronting the sector. These include The Holy Trinity of Culture, Space & Opportunity; Exploring the reality of neurodiversity, inclusivity and equality; AI or die? Using AI in workplace design to enhance creative output and generate innovative ideas; and Designing a workplace that meets cross generational needs. Workspace Design Show 2024 will again feature four different talks programmes, featuring 120 speakers. The Workspace Design Talks will be exploring the latest trends and insights in workplace design, strategy and culture, while the Sustainability Works programme will also return for next year’s edition. This stream of discussion will again bring together a selection of key figures behind the workplace market’s leading sustainable initiatives, projects and product developments. The FIS Conference, a not-for-profit representative body for the £10 billion finishes and interiors sector in the UK, will once again take place at Workspace Design Show, providing a platform for the latest industry thinking from the finishes and interiors sector. The Occupiers Forum, meanwhile, will provide ‘The View from HQ’, giving that crucial perspective from the occupier side of the workplace design equation, as well as providing insights into what employers are doing to create an engaging workplace experience. Once again, Workspace Design Show will gather together leading architects, designers, real estate professionals, tenants and other industry experts to exchange their insights around the world of workplace design. Workspace Design Show 2024, 27-28 February 2024, Business Design Centre, 52 Upper St, London N1 0QH workspaceshow.co.uk For further information contact Nova Joseph, nova@workspaceshow.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has awarded its first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer (CIE) title to Chris Landsburgh, a Decarbonisation Director at infrastructure consulting firm AECOM. Chris has been involved in the infrastructure sector for over 10 years and specialises in decarbonising infrastructure. He provides advice on net zero plans, whole life carbon accounting, and sustainability strategies for governments and businesses. Already a Chartered Environmentalist, he was formerly an ICE President’s Future Leader under past president Paul Sheffield, is an ICE Carbon Champion and was involved in creating the PAS 2080 standard for carbon management in infrastructure. The CIE title is the first new title to be awarded since 1923 when the first Chartered Engineer titles were awarded. What is a Chartered Infrastructure Engineer? The CIE title was acquired by the ICE in response to the recommendations made by Professor John Uff in his 2016 review of UK engineering. Professor Uff observed that a significant number of academically qualified, practising engineers were operating outside the Professional Engineering Institution structure. In the report he recommended these engineers become professionally qualified to help assure the public that the engineers who are delivering the infrastructure they use daily are current, credible, and competent. The CIE title, the introduction of which was approved by members in 2022, allows the ICE to professionally qualify engineers involved in all aspects of infrastructure delivery and welcome them into its membership. The introduction of this new title acknowledges the changing needs of an industry which has been transformed by innovation, new technologies, and a desire to build a more inclusive and sustainable world through multi-disciplinary collaboration. How does someone become a Chartered Infrastructure Engineer? CIE candidates must participate in a similarly rigorous process as Chartered Civil Engineer candidates. The same assessment standard and methodology is applied but tailored towards the CIE candidate’s specialism. This process includes submitting documentary evidence of competence and professional commitment, passing a written communication task and interviewing with at least two professional qualified reviewers. One reviewer is a civil engineer, the other has knowledge of the CIE candidate’s specialism. Chartered Infrastructure Engineers will help society meet engineering challenges Chris Landsburgh said,‘The ICE has been a professional home for several years, and becoming the first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer is an honour. ‘This new title fosters a culture of inclusivity and collaboration and reflects the industry’s commitment to evolve. ‘Drawing on the collective knowledge of many disciplines will set the industry and society up well to navigate the challenges we’re facing such as climate change and the need to decarbonise infrastructure’. ICE President Keith Howells said, ‘I’m delighted to conclude my tenure as ICE President with the announcement that Chris Landsburgh has become the institution’s first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer. ‘Awarding this new protected title follows years of discussion about modernising and broadening the ICE to become a professional home for all those working in infrastructure. ‘The Engineering Council, HM Privy Council and others all required assurance that this new title was needed and that the highest standards of professional review would be met. ‘All believed that introducing the title aligned with the ICE’s mission to ensure that the world has the infrastructure it needs to thrive.’ ‘I look forward to welcoming many more like Chris in the future’. AECOM’s chief executive for Europe & India, Colin Wood said, ‘I know I speak for many in our industry in warmly welcoming the new title of Chartered Infrastructure Engineer. ‘As we collaborate to solve the important challenges of our time, such as decarbonisation and resilience, it is right that we recognise the valuable expertise and experience of our colleagues who haven’t specifically taken a civil engineering route, but whose professional capability is instrumental to the outcomes we are working to achieve. ‘Huge congratulations to Chris on this achievement’. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced changes to continuing professional development (CPD) for its chartered members. 1 January 2024 will see the introduction of simplified rules – removing the need for members to assign points or learning levels to their CPD activities – and more robust compliance. While members are already required to undertake and record CPD, RIBA will now check that every member has an up-to date online record, rather than auditing a random sample. Alongside the new rules, exemptions will be introduced – on request – for members on maternity, paternity, carer or adoption leave, or away from practice due to long term illness. The changes, which coincide with updates to ARB’s CPD requirements, are aimed at ensuring and demonstrating that RIBA members meet the highest professional standards and are equipped with expertise in crucial areas such as building and fire safety, climate literacy, legal and regulatory compliance, and inclusive design. RIBA has published information and guidance for members, available via its website. Executive Director for Professional Knowledge at RIBA, Adrian Dobson, said: “RIBA chartered membership represents a gold standard in architectural practice, and today the expectations and demands on architects have never been greater. Societal issues, such as the Grenfell Tower tragedy and the climate crisis, have led to significant shifts in the wider industry, requiring architects to demonstrate competence across a broad range of areas. The forthcoming changes to RIBA’s CPD requirements will it make easier than ever before for our members to develop and maintain the sophisticated knowledge and expertise they need. This will ultimately ensure that we uphold the highest standards in architecture, and that the profession remains commercially resilient and at the forefront of addressing society’s most pressing issues. Our focus remains better and safer buildings and places, stronger communities, and a sustainable built environment. We are here to support our members with the changes and advise them on their CPD needs. Alongside resources which are free for members – including digital content, events and articles – we offer structured and informal CPD at every level and price.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The employee-owned Cragg Vale-based business, Craggs Energy is delighted to have won two awards at the most recent Calderdale Business Awards. The company, known for its excellence in fuel distribution, has been honoured with the titles of Employer of the Year and Business of the Year, solidifying its position as a standout contributor to the local business landscape. Matthew Crockett, Managing Director at Craggs Energy comments: “We are honoured to have received both the award we were nominated for and the prestigious Business of the Year award. This recognition stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, of which I couldn’t be prouder. At Craggs Energy, we believe that our employees are our most valuable assets, and we are committed to empowering our workforce. This accolade reflects our ongoing dedication to fostering a supportive and thriving workplace. We place high value on our employees, customers, and the community we serve. Not only this but winning the Business of the Year award highlights our commitment to excellence and innovation within our industry. Our sustained growth, relentless pursuit of quality, and dedication to customer satisfaction drive us to continue providing reliable and renewable fuel solutions for our Calderdale community for years to come.” Emily Yates, Transport and Operations Planner said: “We had a fantastic evening at the awards ceremony and we were blown away to be recognised for two awards. Over the past twelve months, we have seen lots of improvements within the business including the introduction of a dog-friendly office, revamped breakout areas, internal awards and recognition and more regular staff incentives including meals and team nights out. I feel privileged to be working with such an amazing team and to share in the growing success of our one hundred per cent employee-owned business. The continued incentives and benefits that are introduced keep the team motivated and feeling valued. I’m excited to see what the future holds for us.’’ Craggs Energy’s impressive double victory at the Calderdale Business Awards 2023 is a testament to their enduring commitment to their colleagues, community, and industry. As they continue to grow and evolve, their presence in the energy sector remains influential and their dedication to excellence is unwavering. The Employer of the Year and Business of the Year titles are not just accolades but a testament to the values that define Craggs Energy as a pillar of the Calderdale business community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Teagan Hudson has been promoted to Improvement and Compliance Manager, which is a newly created role at award-winning Leeds based contractor Priestley Construction. Teagan will be responsible for updating and revising the company’s processes and systems to ensure they are as efficient and effective as possible. She will also oversee staff training and provide inductions to new recruits spanning Priestley’s procedures and policies. In addition, she will manage the implementation of new IT solutions and software, as well as providing relevant training, to streamline how the company stores, accesses, monitors and distributes information internally and externally. She will also explore and implement new standards from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that could benefit the company. Teagan joined Priestley Construction almost 18 months ago as a buyer and estimator. Teagan said: “The construction industry is evolving fast, and companies must be as proficient and capable as possible in today’s market in order to be successful and genuinely add value to their clients and projects. This role is all about identifying and implementing potential improvements in a wide range of areas to make Preistley Construction even better at what it does. “It feels very rewarding that the directors have created this new role and given me this opportunity to drive so many positive changes forward.” Nathan Priestley, founder and CEO of the Priestley Group, said: “Teagan boasts a wealth of analytical skills and when this is combined with her superb attention to detail and overall knowledge of the construction industry, there’s no doubt this is a role that she’ll thrive in. “We’ve shaped the job around her specific skillsets, and she will now be responsible for promoting, improving, updating, revising and monitoring all of our operational and commercial processes, with the overall aim of driving continuous improvement across our business. This makes it an exciting opportunity for both Teagan and Priestley Construction alike.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The terms under the new Building Safety Act 2022 became enforceable from October 1st this year. Here, Bob Glendenning, Fire Design Engineering Manager of Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings, examines why creating a ‘Golden Thread’ of information within the new legislation is so important for those involved in the intumescent coatings industry. The Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) has been developed as a new framework for the design, construction and occupation of ‘higher risk’ buildings. These buildings are defined as being a minimum of 18 metres or seven storeys in height and comprise of at least two domestic premises. These regulations required that all existing occupied high-risk buildings should be registered with the new Building Safety Regulator (BSR) from April 6, 2023 and no later than October 1, 2023. The BSR is an independent body which forms part of the Health and Safety Executive, which aims to raise building safety standards and the performance of buildings whilst also monitoring the competence of regulators and industry professionals. The reality of this new legislation is that under the terms of the Act, a Principal Accountable Person who fails to register an occupied higher-risk building ‘without a reasonable excuse’ will be liable to either a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. The Principal Accountable Person is described as the organisation or person who owns, or has responsibility for, the building. It may also be an organisation or person who is responsible for maintaining the common parts of a building, for example corridors or lobbies. The three Gateways provide evidence The Golden Thread is an information trail that runs through all of the three Gateways from the outset to completion and occupation so that end users can be assured of compliance, quality and safety and have confidence in the products used to provide fire and life safety. For the protection of structural steel with intumescent coatings, those who may need to submit information may include main contractors, architects, designers, specifiers, fabricators and applicators. Indeed, any party who is responsible for fire safety critical elements or components. Importantly, the criteria for the Golden Thread requires all relevant documents and evidence to be stored digitally to prove that adequate steps have been taken in the construction and ongoing maintenance of a building. Gateway 1 – covering the planning stage. This has been in force since August 1, 2021 and sets out the framework for the second and third stages. Applicants need to demonstrate that fire safety matters have been incorporated into the planning stage for all buildings. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), who are now also the BSR, will be part of the consultation. If a fire statement is required to be submitted with a planning application it will be an issue for consideration for the Local Planning Authority (LPA) when reaching its decision on the application. Contractors should take note that if the LPA considers the statement inadequate it can refuse the application. At Sherwin-Williams, our policy of early engagement and collaboration between all parties helps to clarify any points up front before they become a problem with the subsequent knock-on effect on time and cost. It is clear that engaging multiple stakeholders – including designers, fabricators and applicators – early and consistently throughout the process is key to delivering a successful, safe and cost-efficient solution. Working together, we share knowledge and help our clients to reach their goals. After all, we are ALL now part of this renewed responsibility. We encourage and fully support this early engagement, and with the correct information from the project team we can provide information and guidance on a safe and efficient structural fire protection approach. Gateway 2 – submitting building control approval to the Regulator. This should include written declarations covering the competency of the main contractor, designer, a description of works and plans and a planning statement from Gateway 1. Importantly, there should be information about how evidence is being captured to maintain the Golden Thread. The Regulator has a 12-week period to approve or reject these building control applications or to approve subject to fulfilment of certain requirements. Any major changes at this stage will also need approval from the Regulator, and records of the controlled change – including an explanation of compliance with Building Regulations – will also need to be maintained. The categorisation of major and ‘notifiable changes’ are still subject to consultation under the new legislation. Gateway 3 – providing information to ensure the building is safe for occupation. There is a requirement to submit a completion certificate application and provide updated plans. These plans should reflect the scale of the higher-risk building, key building information, a list of mandatory incident reporting and signed declarations from the main contractor and principal designer that the works and building comply with Building Regulations. Finally, confirmation that information for the Golden Thread has been handed over to the accountable person should also be declared. There is then a 12-week period for the Regulator to approve the application for a completion certificate. We all have a role to play Remember – responsibility lies with us all. Nobody in the supply chain can absolve themselves. The Accountable Person must have assessed all building safety risks and taken all reasonable steps to control them, give the safety case report to the Regulator on request and apply for a building assessment certificate. To be clear, the information stored in the Golden Thread needs to be accurate, easily understandable, up to date and readily accessible. In echoing the point made by Dame Judith Hackitt, we at Sherwin-Williams emphasise that the Golden Thread constitutes any relevant package of information which refers specifically to a project or programme of works. This could come in various forms including a product specification, marked-up drawings, CAD data, a BIM model, a product / member DFT schedule, application records or datasheets for example. As long as it provides evidence of good practice and compliance, it is relevant. It is important to
For those that own and manage large-scale commercial, industrial, and residential buildings, effective life safety systems are critical. Aside from legal obligation, compliant systems ensure risk is managed appropriately, particularly mitigating the threat of fire and smoke. The latter is where Colt comes in. A pioneer and market leader in smoke control systems which allow smoke out of a building in the event of a fire. Having a system in place that enables smoke to escape is critical to saving lives. But it can also protect assets and reduce the degree of damage to a building. Crucially, when a fire breaks out, reducing the amount of smoke in the building helps those inside, whether they are awaiting fire services or trying to evacuate, because visibility is improved and toxic gases are reduced. Once onsite, fire services can facilitate evacuation more quickly and, with better visibility, rapidly locate the source of the fire in order to speed up extinguishing. Commonly installed in large single-storey factories and warehouses, shopping centres, multi-storey buildings, car parks, and buildings with atria, customers not only rely on Colt’s smoke control technology, but its holistic project managed approach to designing, installing, and maintaining a solution tailored specifically to each project’s need. That means everything a building needs for smoke control. As well as Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs), this also includes fully certified openable ventilators, natural and mechanical shaft systems, access hatches, smoke control dampers, smoke extract fans, smoke and fire curtains and automatic controls. Its multi-disciplined technical expertise, including in-house CFD capability, and in-house engineers mean Colt provides a full turnkey service. It’s little wonder Colt has worked on some of the most prestigious buildings across the UK as well as the tallest structures in the country. These include the 65-storey 22 Bishopsgate (London’s highest commercial building), the 56-storey 1 Nine Elms, and 68-storey South Quay Plaza. Having pioneered the science of smoke control in 1954 when it designed the UK’s first-ever smoke control system to be installed in a manufacturing plant, Colt has continued to set new benchmarks. Continuous innovation from the market leaders One of its latest innovations is the Defender F2, a smoke control damper. Certified to EN12101-8 and tested to EN1363-1 and BS EN1366 Parts 2 and 10, the Defender F2 provides a fire-rated solution when closed and a reliable smoke extract solution when open. Significantly, it has been designed to be seamlessly integrated into the surface of a wall. From an aesthetic point of view it is unobtrusive, unlike traditional louvre damper systems, providing architects greater design control. It’s an example of the wide spectrum of products and solutions Colt can bring to market. While Colt is the market leader in smoke control, as a turnkey service partner it boasts a number of other strengths from smoke and fire damper systems, pressurisation systems for stairwells, car park smoke, fume and CO extraction systems, and the servicing of solar and photovoltaic arrays, as well as brise soleil. Working in collaboration with clients from conception through to commissioning and ongoing maintenance, Colt enables owners and operators to not only address fire safety but unlock a building’s full potential in terms of energy efficiency and architectural design. Its ability to do so lies in its talented personnel. As well as employing all its own engineers, Colt’s vastly experienced design and technical team can develop bespoke solutions tailored to specific building environments and compliance requirements. It also means architects and consultants can work with Colt to identify the best combination of products and systems to achieve the desired effect and performance. Its experts use in-house computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and other design tools such as CAD and BIM to simulate airflows and heat transfer within buildings to assist with designing effective building conditions. Further peace of mind is gained from the fact Colt manufactures its products at its dedicated facility and extensively tests systems prior to installation to verify performance. Independent accredited test houses carry out fire testing, environmental testing (for wind, rain, snow) and safety testing (for load and impact). And no stone is left unturned when commissioning its systems. In compliance with BS7346-8, which is specific legislation relating to the commissioning process, Colt’s multi-stage process includes thorough static testing, functionality, cause & effect and performance testing. The final stage, System Acceptance, involves witness testing, demonstration, sign-off and client training. This is supported by independent 3rd party certification (IFC Certification) for the installation and maintenance of smoke control systems, including smoke and fire curtains – just another step in the process of demonstrating their competence and compliance processes. Colt are fully certified to ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001. They are also (uniquely for the industry), certified to the demanding ISO 37301 for Compliance Management Systems. For Colt engineers, the training never stops Never standing still, Colt continues to evolve. It has, for example, established its own dedicated Training Centre at its manufacturing plant in Havant. Designed specifically for the initial and ongoing training of its maintenance engineers, the centre is equipped with working examples of all the types of smoke control systems that engineers will encounter in the real world. This includes Colt-produced systems as well as those of other manufacturers to ensure engineers have a broader understanding in order to be able to service any system they may encounter. Ongoing training also features regulatory updates and standards in addition to fault-finding to enable first-fix works wherever possible. It guarantees Colt’s engineers remain competent and knowledgeable; ensuring clients have peace of mind that their systems are working as expected. Colt’s enviable reputation has been built on its multi-disciplined approach and almost 70 years of researching and developing systems that have made buildings safer. Its holistic solution is backed by unrivalled in-house technical expertise and highly trained engineers which ensure clients have confidence in the performance of their building safety systems. If you are working on a project that requires smoke control design expertise or manage a building where smoke control maintenance is required, get
Work is complete on a stunning and luxurious new care home in Sleaford that offers 67-bedrooms alongside first-class amenities, with the first residents now moving into their new homes. Sleaford Manor is the latest development in Brough headquartered Yorkare’s portfolio of care homes which are located throughout Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The £6 million development was built by Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter, and is the seventh project the company has completed for Yorkare since 2015. Located off London Road, Sleaford Manor’s spacious bedrooms are all fully furnished with their own en-suite bathrooms. Those on the ground floor have private patio areas and there are also premium suites, with their own lounge areas, which often appeal to couples or siblings. Facilities include an in-house bar, restaurant standard dining rooms, a full beauty salon and hairdressing room, a cinema, private dining rooms and outdoor terraces on each floor. The development is surrounded by landscaped gardens with private seating areas, as well as a bowling green and allotments. Nicola Anderson, marketing and community engagement manager, from Yorkare, said: “Sleaford Manor is our tenth care home, which is a major milestone for us, and it’s already proving very popular with people in and around Sleaford who are looking for a special place to start the next chapter of their lives. “We’re already welcoming our first residents to Sleaford Manor and would urge anyone who would like to find out more about the outstanding levels of care offered and the luxury facilities, to get in contact with us.” Mark Smee, director at Hobson & Porter, said: “We’re very pleased to complete work on this latest development for Yorkare, which follows a string of successful projects in Louth, Cottingham, Cleethorpes Beverley, Hessle and Hornsea. In addition, we’re currently working on another project for Yorkare at Haxby, which will complete next year. “Yorkare has established a strong reputation for pushing industry boundaries, when it comes to the design and luxury fit out of its homes. This translates into exceptional homes in prominent locations and Sleaford Manor, which is much more akin to an up-market hotel than a care home, offers a stunning living environment where residents will aspire to live.” Sleaford Manor sits in a prominent location next to a Co-op supermarket, a community centre, and a newly developed coffee shop. For more information about the development visit yorkarehomes.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
McAleer & Rushe has been awarded the £60m contract to deliver a 196-unit residential development in London Road, Barking by Yara Capital. The vacant site and former bus depot will transform into a mixed-use development providing 125 Build to Rent and 71 affordable housing apartments. The building which will range in height from 9 to 22 storeys will feature a mixture of studios, one, two, and three bedroom apartments and will be complemented by generous amenity space. The development will include two commercial units on the Ground Floor and two roof terraces offering panoramic views overlooking the Abbey Green parkland and long views towards central London. Situated on a prominent corner location at the edge of Barking Town Centre, construction will commence in November and will be partly funded by BeFirst, the urban regeneration arm of Barking & Dagenham Council, with a targeted completion date of June 2026. Commenting on the appointment Mark Diamond, Senior Director at McAleer & Rushe said, “As the trusted Construction partner for key investors and developers in the industry, we are committed to delivering homes across a mixture of tenures including build to rent, private for sale, affordable housing and co-living. This latest residential contract, which is one of 8 currently under construction in the greater London area, underpins our strong client relationships, our vast skill set and proven track record in delivering high quality city centre residential schemes. We are looking forward to working in partnership with Yara Capital and BeFirst to bring forward modern and sustainable housing in the historic heart of Barking.” At 22-storeys the Western block is the tallest and will be orientated to acknowledge the Abbey Grounds directly to the South West of the site. The development will also provide 286 no. secure bike parking spaces, 4no. car parking spaces and a number of public realm improvements. Patrick Houghton, Yara Capital “Working in conjunction with BeFirst and the local authority we will provide a scheme that delivers a significant amount of affordable housing as well as rejuvenating the site and enhancing the surrounding area. We’re delighted to appoint McAleer & Rushe as our Construction partner, who have the expert knowledge and experience in the Residential sector, and together we are committed to delivering a regeneration scheme that will make the Borough a great place to live, work and socialise.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Despite the industry seeing real forward momentum in attracting more women into the industry, the lack of women in senior real estate roles is a worrying trend, caused by a lack of retention. For the industry to continue to move forward this must be addressed. Clare Coe and Nina Zeilerbauer, the co-founders of Madison Berkeley are often approached by women in the industry for advice on how to progress. Nina says: “What we hear is that women still face equity barriers to staying in the industry. Often that involves issues arising from the lack of networks and flexibility afforded to them within the industry. The gender gap is still very much a ‘thing’ in real estate.” Madison Berkeley has joined forces with Adina David, Executive Director at MGT who heads up the networking organisation Ladies in Real Estate to start the conversation about what can be done to improve female retention in our sector. As part of the Empower Equity 2023 campaign, we will be publishing a new 30-minute reverse mentoring audio interview each day for 5 days in the week of 25th September 2023 on the Madison Berkeley https://www.madisonberkeley.com/news/ and LiRE sites as well as promoting them on social media. These insightful recorded sessions allow up-and-coming junior females in Real Estate to interview and question senior figures in the industry. These sessions aim to tackle questions around how to achieve eventual leadership roles from newly qualified status; as well as recognising that senior leaders can learn much from younger generations in the industry. We have ladies involved from many of our major real estate companies such as Savills, JLL, Argent and Cushmans. Those involved all have a mix of surveyor specialisms. The sessions make for really interesting listening with those involved not holding back. The main issues that arose were difficulty in females knowing what their roles are worth in pay terms and it being incredibly hard to find out. The other one was a lack of flexibility in terms of WFH. This seems to be swinging back in the favour of a return to the office policy which makes the industry much less attractive for females. Madison Berkeley: Madison Berkeley is a real estate recruiter co-founded by Clare Coe and Nina Zeilerbauer. They set up the company in 2017 with the aim of changing the face of the real estate sector from a recruitment POV. They were clear that they wanted to stop ED+I from being simply a tick-box exercise and they continue to work hard to effect change in this area (winning awards and recognition for their work along the way). Within their first 18 months of trading, they had managed 50% female placements in an industry that at that time reported just 14% female representation. Ladies in Real estate: Ladies in Real Estate was founded by Adina David, Executive Director at MGT to provide informal networking opportunities for women at all levels working across the sector. LiRE was formed out of the desire to encourage women to build personal relationships and support each other on their career journey. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals