Kenneth Booth
First UK Mapecrete jointless floor system installed in the UK

First UK Mapecrete jointless floor system installed in the UK

Mapei UK’s first Mapecrete jointless floor system has been installed at P1 The Plasterers One Stop Shop & Plastering Superstore, in Cheltenham. The seamless finish was installed over the 440m2 floor area, which will be used as new warehouse space. Concrete was supplied by Flowmix and pumped by Max-Pump. Suitable

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cope&co the new name for thriving Derby property business

cope&co the new name for thriving Derby property business

Three family businesses have merged to create one of Derbyshire’s largest independent property brands, cope&co. Husband and wife team, Daren and Susan Cope, alongside their son and daughter James and Annie, are bringing their two estate agencies, James Cope Homes and Amber Homes, under the same roof as their residential,

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Actis shares Part L CPD at West of England LABC roadshow

Actis shares Part L CPD at West of England LABC roadshow

The LABC will be hosting its next technical roadshow in 3D later this month – with Actis sharing part of its RIBA-approved Tomorrow’s Insulation Solutions for Future Homes Standards CPD with delegates from across the West of England. The CPD, which covers part L, will be presented by one of

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RIBA announces CPD changes

RIBA announces CPD changes

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.

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Latest Issue
Issue 342 : Jul 2026

Kenneth Booth

First UK Mapecrete jointless floor system installed in the UK

First UK Mapecrete jointless floor system installed in the UK

Mapei UK’s first Mapecrete jointless floor system has been installed at P1 The Plasterers One Stop Shop & Plastering Superstore, in Cheltenham. The seamless finish was installed over the 440m2 floor area, which will be used as new warehouse space. Concrete was supplied by Flowmix and pumped by Max-Pump. Suitable for all environments – from commercial and industrial to residential – the Mapecrete system provided benefits including enhanced durability, reduced maintenance and a fast-track installation. Fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC) jointless slabs represent a significant advancement in concrete technology, offering numerous benefits over traditional reinforced concrete (RC) slabs. The Mapecrete FRC jointless system is based on a shrinkage compensated concrete technology where contraction is compensated by restrained expansion through structural reinforcement. The modular system consists of four Mapei products which work in synergy to create a jointless finish: they include Dynamon XTend W300 N, Mapecure SRA 25, Expancrete, Mapefiber ST42 and Mapecure E30. Whilst RC slabs are jointed to assist in controlling cracking, FRC jointless slabs contain fibres within the concrete mix to enhance performance and reduce cracking and spalling. The slab’s increased durability provides increased load-bearing capacity and greater ability to withstand heavy loads and high traffic. As well as reduced maintenance, further cost savings result from reduced downtime and repairs, and from a less labour-intensive installation. The jointless system is also more resistant to environmental factors, such as freeze-thaw cycles. “The Mapecrete system provided a multitude of installation and performance benefits, as well as a safer working environment. The FRC jointless slab system eliminates the need for steel mesh and greatly reduces labour days. Installation was also far easier, compared to traditional RC slabs, creating a seamless floor. Further down the line, we’ve also eliminated the issues that can arise from having joints every 5-6 linear metres. It’s a fabulous innovation and we’re delighted with the finish achieved in the superstore, ”commented Andrew Hill, Managing Director at Plastering Superstore. For more information about Mapei products and applications, please contact: info@mapei.co.uk or visit www.mapei.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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cope&co the new name for thriving Derby property business

cope&co the new name for thriving Derby property business

Three family businesses have merged to create one of Derbyshire’s largest independent property brands, cope&co. Husband and wife team, Daren and Susan Cope, alongside their son and daughter James and Annie, are bringing their two estate agencies, James Cope Homes and Amber Homes, under the same roof as their residential, sales and property letting business, Professional Properties. It is the first time the company, which has its HQ in Canterbury House on Stephensons Way, has undertaken a major merger and rebrand since it launched nearly 25 years ago. James, the company’s Sales Director, and Annie, who is Operations Director, will be taking a much more prominent role moving forward after dedicating their time to Professional Properties, James Cope Homes and the recently acquired Amber Homes in Alfreton. Susan Cope, the company’s Managing Director, said it was time for the family-run business to reflect on a key milestone in its own history, blend the trio of successful businesses and celebrate the company’s growth. She said: “We want to bring all the strings of our business together and now is the time to do it. Daren and I have worked tirelessly to build the company and we decided that coming together, under one brand, was the way to progress. “Family means everything to us, and we are proud that James and Annie will work as hard as us to grow cope&co. “What they are achieving is phenomenal and we can’t wait to continue celebrating their successes.” The new cope&co brand launches this month with an exciting new website and look and feel, which will become a regular sight across Derbyshire and East Staffordshire. Under its new identity cope&co is one of the largest independent letting and estate agents in the local area offering bespoke lettings and property management services, residential sales, as well as selling current investment properties to investors. A new block management service will also be launching next January as part of the exciting new merger. Marketing Derby Bondholders, Daren and Susan Cope launched Professional Properties almost 25 years ago and started from a small office in Derby’s Old Blacksmith Yard, just off Sadler Gate. The business rapidly grew as the couple ploughed their time and energy into building one of Derby’s most successful businesses within the property industry. Susan said: “As the business developed, we moved around to accommodate the growth in staff. It soon became clear that our customers liked the way we worked, and we became business leaders in lettings and property management. “Right now, we are one of the largest, independent letting agents in the area and I think it’s because we are so passionate about what we do. “We have strong family values, and every member of the team works in the same way. James and Annie, share our ethos and drive and they are hugely knowledgeable in the property sector.” The business has already launched its new website at www.copeandco.co.uk and will celebrate its official launch with an open day early in January, 2024. Daren, the company’s Finance Director, said: “Our new brand is a reflection of our amazing journey so far as a family, but it also marks our aspiration to continue growing as a business. “We are proud of our family name – so why not celebrate it? “It has been a real team effort. We are delighted with the outcome, and we now welcome people to cope&co, the new name in property in Derbyshire.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Actis shares Part L CPD at West of England LABC roadshow

Actis shares Part L CPD at West of England LABC roadshow

The LABC will be hosting its next technical roadshow in 3D later this month – with Actis sharing part of its RIBA-approved Tomorrow’s Insulation Solutions for Future Homes Standards CPD with delegates from across the West of England. The CPD, which covers part L, will be presented by one of the Actis regional specification team at the monthly LABC technical seminar on Wednesday November 22. Delegates and presenters can meet face-to-face at the free event, which takes place at The Players Golf Club in Bristol – and may even get to eat cupcakes, used to illustrate key points in the CPD. This is the sixth year in a row in which Actis is working with LABC as a CPD partner.  The club, which like many of its ilk acts as a conference centre and wedding destination, as well as offering fishing, will provide an excellent location in which builders, specifiers, architects and building control officers can benefit from three and a half hours of CPD training. Actis, along with LABC’s other CPD partners, will each offer insight into a specific technical issue and a proposed solution designed to educate and inform. Actis’ contribution will focus on insulation to meet the new tighter Building Regulations Part L requirements, while other experts will talk on issues such as warranty defects. Doors open at 8am and close at 11.30am. Reserve your place here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Connexin Races Ahead as UK's Leading LoRaWAN Infrastructure Provider as Network Passes 4.8 Million Homes

Connexin Races Ahead as UK’s Leading LoRaWAN Infrastructure Provider as Network Passes 4.8 Million Homes

UK-based smart technology and digital specialist Connexin is making huge strides in becoming the leading provider of LoRaWAN® infrastructure in the UK, announcing that its Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) now reaches 4.8 million homes. A significant milestone in the company’s mission to ‘Connect the real world with the digital world to improve the way we live’. Connexin’s industry leading LoRaWAN is a low powered, wide-area network designed to seamlessly connect Internet of Things (IoT) devices and sensors over long distances while consuming minimal energy. The network is live and passes over 4.8 million homes. Making a splash in the utilities landscape, Connexin is set to expand the network even further with plans to connect an additional 400,000 IoT sensors to make UK water smarter.   Connexin’s impressive track record of deploying large-scale LoRaWAN infrastructure for smart water metering really demonstrates its expertise in the sector, alongside successful partnerships with industry leaders such as Severn Trent Water and Yorkshire Water.  By revolutionising the smart water network, water utility companies can now give people a crystal-clear view of their water consumption patterns through real-time insights on water usage, swiftly spot leaks and burst pipes, and ultimately reduce water loss. This brings enormous benefits to the environment. By cutting down on water waste through smart metering and improved management, Connexin is helping to reduce energy consumption linked to water treatment and distribution, resulting in lower greenhouse gas emissions for the nation. Dan Preece, Vice President of IoT at Connexin explains: “Our growth in the IoT and digital infrastructure space over the past year has been off the charts. We continue to invest significant resources into boosting our LoRaWAN infrastructure, ensuring top-notch coverage and rock-solid reliability to cater to the ever-expanding needs of the many businesses and communities embracing IoT applications.” Connexin’s growth in building smarter cities and places has been accelerated with an £80m investment from PATRIZIA; one of the world’s largest independent infrastructure funds. Phoebe Smith, Senior Director at PATRIZIA Infrastructure, said: “PATRIZIA is proud to support Connexin’s growth journey in the UK digital infrastructure space. During a time when sustainability and reducing unnecessary impact on the planet are more important than ever, we are excited to partner with such an innovative and forward-thinking company.” LoRaWAN® technology is a game-changer for the environment and supports a vast array of applications that touch nearly every aspect of day-to-day life. With the deployment of LoRaWAN-enabled sensors, service providers such as water utility companies and local authorities can keep a vigilant eye on their surroundings. From continuously monitoring elements such as temperature, humidity, water patterns and air quality to maintaining comfortable living spaces can all be achieved to ensure good health. The versatility and connectivity of LoRaWAN make cities and communities smarter, paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for everyone.

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Workspace Design Show announces first names for speaker programme at its 2024 London show

Workspace Design Show announces first names for speaker programme at its 2024 London show

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 

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Institution of Civil Engineers qualifies first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer

Institution of Civil Engineers qualifies first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer

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 

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RIBA announces CPD changes

RIBA announces CPD changes

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 

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Craggs Energy secures a double victory at the Calderdale Business Awards

Craggs Energy secures a double victory at the Calderdale Business Awards

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 

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New Improvement and Compliance Manager Will Lay Firm Foundations at Priestley Construction

New Improvement and Compliance Manager Will Lay Firm Foundations at Priestley Construction

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 

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Building Safety Act: The Golden Thread offers peace of mind says Sherwin-Williams

Building Safety Act: The Golden Thread offers peace of mind says Sherwin-Williams

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

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