Japanese clothing giant UNIQLO has officially opened its first store in Liverpool, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s UK expansion. Located at Liverpool ONE, the 25,000 sq ft flagship spans two floors on Paradise Street and showcases the full range of menswear, womenswear, and childrenswear. The store introduces several
The offshore construction programme for ScottishPower’s biggest-ever renewables project is officially underway with the installation of the first foundation for the green energy company’s £4 billion East Anglia THREE offshore windfarm. Standing at 83.89m tall, 10.6m in diameter and weighing 1,800 tonnes, the monopile also represents a new offshore wind
Mansell Building Solutions has been appointed by Oak Construction Projects Ltd to support in the delivery of 62 apartments for Cityheart, as part of the first phase of its Stopford Park development in Stockport. Mansell will deliver full-frame, finishes and fire-stopping solutions reinforcing its expertise in modern methods of construction
Councillors have approved plans to build up to 100 energy-efficient new homes in the Essex village of Takeley. Bellway Strategic Land submitted a hybrid planning application to Uttlesford District Council seeking full planning permission for 32 properties and outline consent for a further 68 homes on land off Station Road.
Caddick Construction Group has reported an annual turnover of £356m for the year ending 31 August 2024, reflecting the wider Caddick Group’s focus on steady, sustainable growth and a strong future. Representing a 12% growth in revenue compared to the previous 2022/23 year, the uplift powered pre-tax profit forward to
RAIB recently released its report into a track worker near miss at Chiltern Green, between Harpenden and Luton, 23 April 2024. Summary At about 09:53 on 23 April 2024, a train travelling at 104 mph (167 km/h) came very close to striking a track worker who was crossing an underbridge
Speedy Hire, the UK’s leading tools and equipment hire company, is proud to have partnered with WellChild’s Helping Hands programme to complete a life-changing garden transformation for 14-year-old Daisy in Huddersfield. Daisy has a chromosome disorder and epilepsy, which affects her mobility, meaning she requires specialist care. The new outdoor
Modular construction has been a game-changer because it allows professionals to create the major parts of a structure in controlled conditions instead of building them directly on sites. This approach prevents challenges caused by inclement weather. It also can improve quality control because a single company fabricates the components rather
Cardo Group has stepped in to acquire the roofing division of Breyer Group following the contractor’s collapse into administration earlier this month, securing close to 100 jobs and ensuring continuity of key public services. The housing maintenance specialist has entered into an asset purchase agreement to take over Breyer Roofing,
HS2’s construction partner for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), has welcomed its 500th apprentice, Kordell Carty. The 26-year-old Aston resident started his early career on house-building sites and supporting loft and garage conversion projects. Now, Kordell is helping to deliver Britain’s new high-speed railway as an apprentice formworker.
Japanese clothing giant UNIQLO has officially opened its first store in Liverpool, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s UK expansion. Located at Liverpool ONE, the 25,000 sq ft flagship spans two floors on Paradise Street and showcases the full range of menswear, womenswear, and childrenswear. The store introduces several customer-focused features including self-service checkouts, dedicated collection points, and in-store services for clothing repairs, alterations, and recycling—reinforcing UNIQLO’s commitment to sustainability and garment longevity. This opening marks the brand’s 21st location in the UK, with further stores planned for Glasgow and Birmingham later this year as part of an ongoing growth strategy. Rob Deacon, asset management director at Liverpool ONE, commented: “UNIQLO’s arrival is a standout moment for Liverpool ONE. Their striking new store adds even more depth to our already strong fashion offering, reinforcing our reputation as a prime destination for global brands seeking prominent, high-footfall locations.” The deal reflects Liverpool ONE’s continued appeal to international retailers looking to establish flagship presences in key UK cities. Property agents Metis and CBRE advised on the transaction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The offshore construction programme for ScottishPower’s biggest-ever renewables project is officially underway with the installation of the first foundation for the green energy company’s £4 billion East Anglia THREE offshore windfarm. Standing at 83.89m tall, 10.6m in diameter and weighing 1,800 tonnes, the monopile also represents a new offshore wind industry record – becoming the largest installed to date from a jack-up vessel in Europe. Charlie Jordan, ScottishPower Renewables CEO, said: “The installation of our first East Anglia THREE foundation is a real wow moment for both ScottishPower and Iberdrola. It represents a mammoth feat of engineering, skill and a huge amount of work. We’re talking an incredible 1800 tonnes of steel, safely and securely lifted and then precisely placed in the exact spot in an area the size of almost 43,000 football pitches. We’ve never built anything of this scale before! “East Anglia THREE will be the biggest-ever windfarm across the whole of the Iberdrola group and the second largest in the world when it comes into operation. To visibly see it starting to take shape in the North Sea is a real milestone moment and definitely something to be proud of. This project is a fantastic example of how we’re generating more secure, green electricity for the UK; investing in the country’s clean energy future; and supporting jobs and opportunities for decades to come.” The monopile – manufactured by Joint Venture Navantia Seanergies Windar Renovables (JVNW) – was installed by the Seaway Ventus jack-up installation vessel. It is the first of 95 monopiles being manufactured for the 1.4GW windfarm – the biggest in the ScottishPower and Iberdrola portfolios. JVNW is fabricating 45 of the 95 foundations for the project, with the remaining 50 being manufactured by Haizea. Each of the 95 monopiles will be between 67 and 85 metres in length, up to 10.6 metres in diameter and weigh between 1200 and 1800 tonnes. They will support 95 14.7MW Siemens Gamesa turbines that will generate a total of 1400MW of clean energy – enough to power the equivalent of more than 1.3 million homes. The first of the 95 transition pieces – produced by Windar Renovables – has also been installed, with each 20 metres in height, 8 metres in diameter and weighing more than 400 tonnes. Seaway7 is installing all of the East Anglia THREE monopiles and transition pieces. To achieve this, the Seaway Ventus jack-up vessel has been fitted with a custom-built mission equipment spread that was designed, fabricated, and installed in under two years to meet the project schedule and performance requirements. Lloyd Duthie, Seaway7 Vice President UK, Ireland & Asia, said, “We are proud to have successfully installed the first foundation for East Anglia THREE. This achievement comes after two years of preparation, resulting in Seaway Ventus installing the largest monopile from a jack-up vessel in Europe. It really is testament to the scale of engineering that can be achieved together with partners across the supply chain. We look forward to progressing this significant multi-year construction project, encompassing foundation and inner-array cable installation, with ScottishPower Renewables to deliver a substantial contribution to the UK’s renewable energy ambitions.” The installation of all 95 turbines is expected to be completed by early 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Mansell Building Solutions has been appointed by Oak Construction Projects Ltd to support in the delivery of 62 apartments for Cityheart, as part of the first phase of its Stopford Park development in Stockport. Mansell will deliver full-frame, finishes and fire-stopping solutions reinforcing its expertise in modern methods of construction (MMC) and light gauge steel framing (LGSF). Providing their services on Bosden – the first of three residential buildings planned for the site – they’ll bring certainty to the build process through their collaborative approach and offsite expertise. Located on the corner of Greek Street and Wellington Road, Stopford Park is a new neighbourhood which will see the regeneration of the site of the former Stockport College. Designed by Day Architectural and structurally engineered by renaissance, Bosden will feature a striking brick-clad façade with storey-height windows, aluminium feature cladding at the main entrance, and finned decorative brickwork panels at higher levels. Mansell’s remit includes the delivery of the full-frame structure, and also all finishes including dry-lining, partitioning, ceilings and plastering as well as the fire-stopping solution to provide compliant compartmentation and protection of the structural frame, ensuring a streamlined and efficient construction process. The building’s ground and first floors will feature an angled façade, requiring the integration of hot-rolled steel into the Metframe system – an innovative solution that allows for both architectural intent and structural efficiency. This will be delivered in partnership with voelstalpine Metsec. Angela Mansell, managing director of Mansell Building Solutions, said: “We’re excited to once again bring our MMC expertise to Stockport on such a transformative scheme. Bosden is set to be the largest purpose-built apartment development in the town. We’re excited to be part of the delivery team as our approach provides certainty in time, quality, and cost, which will help deliver projects like this faster and more efficiently. “This is our third project in Stockport, and it reinforces our commitment to improving our local area, as well as building certainty working with forward-thinking partners who value design, buildability, and commercial viability.” Cityheart’s Stopford Park scheme is part of the Stockport Mayoral Development Corporation’s (MDC) ambitious regeneration of Town Centre West. The wider project, valued at £120 million, will deliver 442 homes, co-working space, public realm, and civic spaces, contributing to Stockport’s evolution as a thriving urban hub. Construction commenced earlier this year with both Bosden and a second residential building Torkington now well underway. Mansell Building Solutions expects to complete its work on Bosden within approximately nine months. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Councillors have approved plans to build up to 100 energy-efficient new homes in the Essex village of Takeley. Bellway Strategic Land submitted a hybrid planning application to Uttlesford District Council seeking full planning permission for 32 properties and outline consent for a further 68 homes on land off Station Road. At a meeting on Wednesday 9 April, the council’s planning committee voted to grant permission for the development, subject to the completion of a Section 106 agreement, through which Bellway will provide around £1 million in financial contributions towards local services. The proposed scheme, which had been recommended for approval by planning officers, will provide extensive highways improvements works, including new and improved pedestrian crossing facilities across Station Road, and land for a new Early Years and Childcare Centre. Around half of the 15-acre site will be provided as green open space, including a community orchard, new landscape buffer and green corridor next to the Flitch Way Country Park off-road cycle route, and a trim trail along the perimeter. Eleanor Kibblewhite, Bellway Strategic Land and Planning Manager for the South Region, said: “Our vision for the Station Road site was developed during an extensive process of consultation with planning officers, Takeley and Hatfield Broad Oak Parish Councils and the wider community, taking into account the site’s countryside location and its context as a gateway into Takeley. “The unique challenges presented by the site resulted in us bringing forward a hybrid application through which we could demonstrate that the detailed design of the homes fronting Station Road represented a sensitively designed and logical extension to the village. “The feedback we received during the consultation process informed a number of revisions to the original proposals, including an increased provision of two and three-bedroom homes to meet the needs of young families, the inclusion of a circular dog walking route and more terraced cottages at the heart of the scheme. “It was therefore particularly pleasing that the planning committee made special reference to the fact that it was the first time in over 25 years that they had no design comments on a scheme because we had engaged so well.” In line with Bellway’s company-wide commitment to sustainability, the homes have been designed to exceed current Building Regulations. Eleanor said: “All properties will be fitted with air source heat pumps and solar panels, helping to achieve a 75 per cent reduction in carbon emissions compared to current requirements. Electric vehicle charging points will also be provided to enable the use of green modes of transport. “Aside from the provision of up to 100 high-quality new homes, the development will provide a range of other benefits for the wider community. These include the creation of 110 jobs in the construction phase, 11 full-time jobs at the Early Years and Childcare Centre, and an estimated additional spend of £2.81 million per year in the local economy by households at the development. “We look forward to finalising the Section 106 agreement with Uttlesford District Council and securing planning consent for this carefully designed sustainable development.” The proposals include a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom properties, with 40 per cent of homes being provided as affordable housing for affordable/social rent or shared ownership. Five affordable homes within the outline phase of the scheme – 12.5 per cent of the affordable homes on the site – are planned to be built to M4(3) standard in the form of wheelchair user bungalows. More information about the work of Bellway Strategic Land can be found at: https://www.bellwaystrategicland.co.uk/ To find out more about Bellway developments in Essex, visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/essex/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Caddick Construction Group has reported an annual turnover of £356m for the year ending 31 August 2024, reflecting the wider Caddick Group’s focus on steady, sustainable growth and a strong future. Representing a 12% growth in revenue compared to the previous 2022/23 year, the uplift powered pre-tax profit forward to £8m with a margin remaining stable at 2.4%. Alongside growth in revenue, Caddick Construction Group’s order book has continued to grow by 7% to £750m and year-end cash increased to £32.8m from £31.9m along with no debt, positioning Caddick Construction Group well for a strong future. The results form part of the 2023/24 figures for the wider Caddick Group, which consists of Caddick Construction, Caddick Developments and Moda Living. The group saw a consolidated turnover of £606m, a 23% increase in gross profit to £70m and net asset growth to £202m. Caddick Construction Group’s results follow a year of milestones for the business, including the launch of its new Wakefield headquarters in June last year. This was followed by the recent opening of its first North East office in Durham. The year also saw Caddick Construction Group grow its project pipeline across the Northwest, Cumbria, North East, Yorkshire and the Midlands with key appointments including the new Schneider manufacturing facility in Scarborough alongside Caddick Developments. Work in the public sector also includes the expansion of Loreto Sixth Form College in Manchester. Growing its portfolio of residential and industrial and logistics projects, Caddick Construction’s recent appointments include the first phase of Cole Waterhouse and Taurus Investment Holdings LLC’s Upper Trinity Street in Birmingham and Max Spielman’s new warehouse on the Wirral. The 2023/24 annual results for Caddick Construction Group also includes the turnover of its two specialist sub-contracting businesses, Caddick Civil Engineering and CCL Facades, both of which are sustainably growing their turnover and profitability both with Caddick Construction and industry third parties. Paul Caddick, Chairman at Caddick, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the results we’ve achieved this financial year, with a strong turnover reflecting the hard work and dedication of our staff as we continue to build our pipeline and further invest in our people. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and these results are a testament to the collective effort across the business, underlining our purpose of creating thriving communities.” Paul Dodsworth, Construction Group Managing Director, commented: “The past few years have seen the group achieve significant operational and financial progress. We are determined to work with clients and partners that share our values for quality and as a result, the contracts within our order book reflect the bidding discipline and risk management now embedded in the business. “Our strategy is to balance our portfolio between the public and private sectors, growing our education and defense work pipeline alongside our core residential and industrial sectors. This ensures stable profitability to protect our business, our people, our clients and our supply chain. The success for future years is underpinned by the year-end order book, resulting from a large number of contract wins across Construction, Civil Engineering and CCL Facades, providing multi-year revenue visibility. “We are well positioned to continue benefiting from UK Government spending commitments and we are confident in sustaining strong cash generation, especially over the last few years, allowing us to grow and deliver the evolved long-term sustainable growth plan for Caddick Construction Group. “Over the past year, the Caddick Group has also extended its commitment to having a positive impact in the places where it operates. We have made real progress in our scope 1 and scope 2 emissions.” Jessica Harmen, Group Head of ESG and Sustainability, is leading the group’s ‘Places for Life’ strategy, originally launched in 2023, aimed at ensuring the projects across the different arms of the business will prioritise the three key ESG areas – communities, environment and business – to create sustainable places for current and future generations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
RAIB recently released its report into a track worker near miss at Chiltern Green, between Harpenden and Luton, 23 April 2024. Summary At about 09:53 on 23 April 2024, a train travelling at 104 mph (167 km/h) came very close to striking a track worker who was crossing an underbridge at Chiltern Green, between Harpenden and Luton Airport Parkway stations. The track worker was just stepping off the bridge, from an area where there was very limited space between the bridge parapet and train, when the train passed them. Upon seeing the track worker on the bridge, the driver sounded the train’s horn and then made an emergency brake application. Once the train stopped, the driver reported the incident to the signaller, unsure as to whether the train had struck the track worker. At the time of the incident, the track worker, who was a tester carrying out telecommunications cable testing, was walking to rejoin their group after a welfare break. RAIB found that the tester walked over the bridge because they were unaware of any other way to walk back to the rest of the group and because the person in charge had not arranged for the tester to safely leave and rejoin the group when taking a break. The person in charge had previously taken the tester over the bridge using an informal and potentially unsafe system of work, using a route to the site of work which was not the one the project engineer planning the work had intended the group to use. This happened because the staff involved were unfamiliar with one of the locations, the person in charge had a very limited role when the work was planned and had not been briefed beforehand, and the documents issued to the person in charge did not give a clear description of the way the team was expected to walk to the site of work. RAIB found that the tester had crossed the bridge without an effective safe system of work in place despite being aware of the risks in doing so. However, the tester’s personal track safety competency, and the associated rules for walking alone on or near the line, did not prohibit them from crossing a structure with restricted clearance. RAIB also identified that the bridge was not signed as a limited clearance structure, which was a possible factor. An underlying factor was that the overall methodology followed for planning the work did not provide the person in charge with clear information about how to carry out the walking element of the work. A possible underlying factor was that, although Network Rail had recorded the bridge as having restricted clearance, it and many other structures on the railway between London and Bedford were not fitted with the required signage to warn staff of this hazard. RAIB also observed that: Since the incident, changes to the rules were published to prohibit personal track safety competency holders from crossing a bridge with restricted clearance unless an appropriate safe system of work is in place. Recommendations As a result of the investigation, RAIB has made four recommendations. The first is for Keltbray Infrastructure Services Limited to review and amend how it plans work on or near the line, so its staff can better understand how to manage and carry out the work they need to deliver. The second is for the Rail Safety and Standards Board to follow the relevant rail industry processes to review and amend as necessary the rail industry standard requirements for warning signage at structures with restricted clearance. The third is for Network Rail to record its lineside signage assets, determine what inspection and maintenance regime is required for these assets, and then schedule these activities to be done. The fourth, also addressed to Network Rail, is to reduce the risks to railway staff due to warning signage not being fitted to structures with restricted clearance. RAIB has also identified four learning points. The first reminds staff involved in planning or carrying out work on or near the line of the importance of coming to a clear understanding about how the planned activities, including the walking elements, should be executed. The second highlights the importance of providing information that clearly identifies the access points to be used if the planned activity involves staff going to more than one access point and different sites of work. The third highlights the importance of not going into any area where there is reduced space between a structure and the nearest running rail of an open line. The fourth highlights the importance of track workers, who are involved in a near miss incident with a train, understanding how they will safely exit the railway, and seeking assistance from the signaller if required. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Speedy Hire, the UK’s leading tools and equipment hire company, is proud to have partnered with WellChild’s Helping Hands programme to complete a life-changing garden transformation for 14-year-old Daisy in Huddersfield. Daisy has a chromosome disorder and epilepsy, which affects her mobility, meaning she requires specialist care. The new outdoor space created is designed to be safe, accessible, and stimulating, allowing her to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with her family and friends. Daisy loves being outside, but her garden was previously inaccessible. Over the course of the project, a dedicated team of Speedy Hire volunteers from Huddersfield and the surrounding areas worked alongside WellChild to level the ground, install secure fencing, and introduce sensory-friendly features such as artificial grass, sensory lighting, and accessible play equipment. In addition to volunteering their time and expertise for Daisy’s garden renovation, Speedy Hire also provided free tool hire to support the successful completion of the project, as they do for all WellChild Helping Hands projects across the UK. The WellChild Helping Hands programme enriches the lives of children with complex medical needs across the UK by creating safe, sensory and accessible environments for them and their families to truly thrive at home. Daisy’s Mum Jenny said: “This garden has transformed Daisy’s experience of being outdoors. She now has a safe and enjoyable space where she can relax, play, and interact with nature. We can’t thank Speedy Hire and WellChild enough for making this possible.” Amelia Woodley, ESG Director at Speedy Hire, commented: “We are delighted to support WellChild’s Helping Hands initiative. At Speedy Hire, we believe in making a positive impact in our communities, and this project is a perfect example of how we can use our resources to create meaningful change. Seeing Daisy enjoy her new outdoor space is truly rewarding.” Kieran Cullen, Helping Hands Programme Manager at WellChild, added: “The success of projects like this relies on the generosity and dedication of corporate partners like Speedy Hire. Their commitment to helping children and families across the UK is invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for their support.” This initiative reflects Speedy Hire’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and community support, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability and social impact. For more information about WellChild and the Helping Hands programme, visit www.wellchild.org.uk. Watch video now Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Modular construction has been a game-changer because it allows professionals to create the major parts of a structure in controlled conditions instead of building them directly on sites. This approach prevents challenges caused by inclement weather. It also can improve quality control because a single company fabricates the components rather than the numerous teams usually responsible for various construction site processes. They can also achieve higher efficiency, which is especially advantageous when clients need homes and other structures as soon as possible. What has modular construction enabled so far? Meeting Urgent Needs Faster Modular construction allows parties to bypass many aspects that can make projects last for months or years. However, such timelines are insufficient when the goal is to assist people without housing. These homes can address their immediate needs more efficiently than conventional building methods, whether they have been homeless for years or have recently lost property due to events such as wildfires. When an 83-year-old widow lost the home she had lived in for nearly five decades because of California wildfires, she decided to bypass the conventional approach that would mean competing with thousands of other displaced residents for contractors and materials. The woman opted for a modular home, viewing it as a streamlined and safe alternative to meet her housing needs. As of late March 2025, she hoped to begin living in it by summer. Many in similar situations see the appeal of modular construction because it will give them the ease they crave while navigating unsettling and unfamiliar situations. Although some did not originally plan to order modular homes, they realized these offerings would help them return to relative normalcy the fastest. However, others feel concerned that an influx of modular houses could erase architectural legacy in areas such as Altadena. Additionally, an effort in Newquay, Cornwall, relies on modular homes to accommodate those in emergency accommodation in hotels. Council authorities said one project would assist approximately 20% of the 100 residents in emergency or temporary facilities. Factors such as severe weather and rising rent costs increase the risks of people losing their homes and needing urgent support. Housing nonprofits and other concerned parties can consider modular structures among the many potential solutions. Combining Efficiency With Sustainability Although some individuals are interested in living in eco-friendly homes, they may believe the only option is to choose between those offerings and structures built faster than usual. However, some modular manufacturers have prioritized both ideals. Plus, off-site processes typically generate less waste than their counterparts and have fewer associated emissions because of less ongoing traffic to and from the property during assembly. Consumers interested in eco-friendliness should consider which features to focus on within their new residences. They should also ask for estimated total time frames to have accurate expectations. Modular techniques may complete homes 30%-50% faster than traditional methods can. One company that uses them sells solar-ready residences, catering to those who want the convenience and speed of this construction option without sacrificing their sustainability goals. These products also have energy-efficient appliances, lights and windows, programmable thermostats, high-performance insulation, and low-emission building materials. Since these homes help occupants reduce resource consumption, they may also help them lower their average living costs, making their sustainable choices provide long-term financial benefits. While commenting on this type of modular home, a representative said customers rank energy efficiency highly when prioritizing their desired characteristics. Additionally, the solar-ready features include dedicated spots for components such as inverters and breakers, making it easy for solar installers to do their work later. Responding to Current Challenges The modular construction industry is well-positioned to address obstacles faced by those who need affordable, efficiently produced homes. As they become more widespread, decision-makers will realize that these options are appealing, practical possibilities.
Cardo Group has stepped in to acquire the roofing division of Breyer Group following the contractor’s collapse into administration earlier this month, securing close to 100 jobs and ensuring continuity of key public services. The housing maintenance specialist has entered into an asset purchase agreement to take over Breyer Roofing, and in a separate deal, has assumed responsibility for Breyer’s responsive repairs and maintenance contract with the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. The acquisition follows Breyer Group’s move into administration on 1st April 2025, affecting its three divisions: Breyer Roofing, Breyer Repair, and Breyer Renew. Glen Carter, partner at RSM UK and joint administrator, commented: “We are pleased to have secured a sale of Breyer Group’s roofing division and, in a separate transaction, the continuity of the company’s contract with the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames to Cardo. These transactions have preserved a significant number of jobs and allow vital services to continue for clients.” Cardo Group’s CEO, Liam Bevan, said the company acted swiftly to stabilise the situation: “We are deeply aware of the impact a sudden collapse can have—on residents, local authorities, and the dedicated people delivering frontline services. “Our focus has been on reassurance, continuity, and a seamless transition. Acquiring Breyer Roofing and key contracts like Kingston means we’re not only keeping homes maintained but also preserving the skills and livelihoods that underpin the sector.” Bevan added that Cardo is working closely with local authorities and partners to support both clients and the new team members joining the business. The rescue arrives as both firms reported near-equal revenues in their most recent accounts: Breyer with £83m to May 2023, and Cardo with £84m to February 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HS2’s construction partner for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), has welcomed its 500th apprentice, Kordell Carty. The 26-year-old Aston resident started his early career on house-building sites and supporting loft and garage conversion projects. Now, Kordell is helping to deliver Britain’s new high-speed railway as an apprentice formworker. When work slowed down during and after Covid-19, Kordell began to explore new career opportunities. He learned about the formworking apprenticeship through a friend, who had applied for a steel fixing apprenticeship on HS2, and was keen to work on a large-scale project that would contrast with his house-building experience. Although the profession of formworking – creating the foundation elements used to make temporary and permanent concrete structures – was not an area of work he was familiar with, Kordell was drawn by the fact that he would be working on the prestigious HS2 project. With a level 2 apprenticeship qualification now underway, Kordell is currently based at the site of HS2’s River Blythe bypass bridge, working for Galldris as part of the BBV supply chain. Here, he is part of a 35-strong team building a structure that will allow the high-speed line to pass above a brook and a bypass channel of the River Blythe in Warwickshire. Kordell said: “The highlight of working on HS2 is being able to see first-hand the progress of the project. I’m taking in as much as possible – I’ve never worked on a construction site of this scale, and I was intrigued to see what it would be like! “My colleagues are great, and I really enjoy working onsite. In the future, I’m looking forward to seeing the finished railway and being able to say that I helped to build it.” As well as learning on the job, Kordell studies at BBV’s Warwickshire-based apprenticeship training hub. The dedicated hub was developed in direct response to a skills gap in the project, and the wider industry, and plays a pivotal role in ensuring workers are accredited and job-ready to support the construction programme. The facility opened its doors in 2023 to deliver steel fixing and formwork apprenticeship training. It has supported over 30 local jobseekers so far. BBV’s 100th apprentice, Benjamin Richards-Moss, who is based at the joint-venture’s Skills Academy in North Warwickshire, has gone on to secure a permanent job on HS2 following completion of his apprenticeship in business administration. Promoted to the role of Training Coordinator, Benjamin plays a key role in the administration function supporting the Skills Academy. He said: “Working for HS2 is one of the best things anyone can do. My advice would be to talk to people around you, get to know what the project is about and this way you will build a great support network. “The project is very exciting, and I believe it will transform the local economy and enhance social mobility between Birmingham and London.” HS2 will underpin the construction industry for years to come, bringing thousands of newly skilled people into the workforce. To date, 1,865 apprentices have joined HS2 and its supply chain – putting the project firmly on track to meet a target of generating at least 2,000 apprenticeships over the lifetime of the programme. Julie Venn-Morton, Senior Skills and Inclusion Manager at HS2 said: “Apprenticeships are crucial in helping us to deliver HS2 and integral to our drive to leave a lasting skills legacy for people in the West Midlands and beyond. “We are very proud to see BBV reach this milestone, which supports our mission to upskill the next generation of construction workers. We wish Kordell a very warm welcome to the project and congratulate Benjamin on successfully securing a permanent role on HS2.” HS2’s construction is now supporting more than 31,000 jobs – including apprenticeships, graduate trainees and through dedicated skills and employment programmes that support unemployed people back into work. Once operational, HS2 will improve connections between London and the West Midlands, with trains running further north on existing lines. The new high-speed railway will create quicker and more reliable journeys, driving economic growth while freeing up space for more local trains on the most congested part of the existing West Coast Main Line. For details about career and employment opportunities available with HS2 and its supply chain partners, visit hs2.org.uk/careers Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
