Seddon – the UK’s largest privately owned and family managed national contracting business is marking its 125th anniversary with a series of events and pledges that will celebrate this most incredible milestone, bring people back together and raise over £1million for charity. The fifth generation, family-owned business, headquartered in Bolton,
Three-quarters (77%) of UK homeowners have invested in their property this year Over half (51%) of UK homeowners said COVID-19 has played a role their decision to invest in their property One in five UK homeowners have spent the majority of their home improvement money on their garden The annual
Much needed new accommodation for Manchester’s growing student community developed by Alumno has reached the landmark topping out stage on schedule with the structure of the building now complete. Built on a site south of the city centre previously occupied by the disused Church Inn public house and close to
Construction begins on new £50 million speculative development in Bellshill Knight Property Group has appointed Fife-based Muir Construction as the main contractor on the first two phases of it’s speculative development at Belgrave Logistics Park, in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. Planning consent was granted in September and works have commenced at
The Ground Source Heat Pump Association, which represents heat pump system designers, contractors and installers across the UK, welcomes the BEIS Select Committee’s report on Heat Decarbonisation (to be published on 3 February). Laura Bishop, chair of the GSHPA, said: “The Select Committee acknowledges the central importance of heat pumps
Concrete admixture manufacturer Oscrete UK has heralded a new chapter following its investment in a standalone company within the Christeyns group this month. Oscrete, one of the UK’s leading specialist construction chemical suppliers, manufactures and supplies a range of high performance super-plasticising admixtures, waterproofing agents and efflorescence controllers for the
The West Fraser (formerly known as Norbord) Inverness plant was in the spotlight this week when it featured in Michael Portillo’s Great Coastal Railway Journey series where the processes of wood panel production were highlighted to the broadcaster and former MP during a guided tour of the plant. The manufacturer,
Every year in the UK, around 1,300 employees are hospitalised due to serious injuries following a forklift incident.¹ In fact, accident figures based on RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) over the last three years show that 43% of incidents involving a forklift truck were impacts with
Collett increase wind energy carrying capacity with the acquisition of Plant Speed’s wind turbine fleet. Halifax based Collett & Sons Ltd and Bristol’s Plant Speed have agreed a deal which will see their specialist wind turbine equipment join the Collett fleet. Taking the decision to remove themselves from the wind
Mike Foster, CEO of the Energy and Utilities Alliance, says: “Now we know the impact of the global energy crisis upon the average consumer, a price cap increase of £693 to £1971 a year. Millions more households will now be thrown into fuel poverty, through no fault of their own
Seddon – the UK’s largest privately owned and family managed national contracting business is marking its 125th anniversary with a series of events and pledges that will celebrate this most incredible milestone, bring people back together and raise over £1million for charity. The fifth generation, family-owned business, headquartered in Bolton, has asked colleagues, customers and its supply chain to come up with their own personal pledges that pay homage to the notable number, whilst raising money for The Christie Charity. So far, these include a challenging 125mile walk, a 125-hole round of golf and a 125km swim. As well as celebrating a century and a quarter in business – only three out of every 100 family businesses make it through to the fourth generation and beyond – Seddon hopes that its endeavours will help it fundraise £1million for The Christie Charity, as well as raising money for other worthy causes that are close to participants’ hearts. Founded in 1897 by George and John Seddon, what started out as a Salford-based bricklaying business, today employs over 650 people and has an annual turnover of £200million. Nicola Hodkinson, Seddon family member and company director, said: “125 years in business is a huge deal, so we’re going all out to mark the occasion with the gusto it deserves whilst raising as much money as we can for a charity that’s so close to our hearts. “It’s timely that our anniversary falls as we’re starting to reconnect post-pandemic, so we hope those who take part will see it as a perfect opportunity to get back together with colleagues and friends, in support of each other’s efforts. “Commercially, the milestone has also prompted us to really focus on our future, to ensure that we’ll still be building homes, schools, healthcare facilities and commercial premises in another 125 years. “Our children have now entered the business and are cutting their teeth. Along with my brothers Jamie and Jonathan, I’m mentoring them on how to be business owners. They’re also moving around the business to gain experience of it and the industry as a whole. “In the words of my father Christopher, it’s our job to make the next generation the best owners they can be. And that’s exactly what we’re doing, for the longevity of the Seddon name.” Roger Spencer, CEO of The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’ve worked with Seddon for over 25 years, and, during that time, they’ve raised a phenomenal £875,000 for The Christie Charity. “It’s really exciting to be part of its latest year-long fundraising campaign, which we’re all hoping will see Seddon surpass the £1million mark. The pledges we’ve heard of so far are fantastic and are sure to raise lots more money. The generous donation of £250 from every Seddon Homes house sold to The Christie at Macclesfield, which opened in December, is also predicted to add an incredible £175,000 to the current total during 2022. “It’s certainly set to be a very special year and we congratulate Seddon on what is an absolutely fabulous achievement.”
Three-quarters (77%) of UK homeowners have invested in their property this year Over half (51%) of UK homeowners said COVID-19 has played a role their decision to invest in their property One in five UK homeowners have spent the majority of their home improvement money on their garden The annual Renovation Nation Report by the consumer spending experts at money.co.uk has found the average UK homeowner has spent £1,473 on home renovations, furnishing and DIY projects this year. What part of the home have UK homeowners spent the most money on? After almost a year of being confined to our homes, it’s perhaps unsurprising that one in five (20%) of UK homeowners have spent the majority of their home improvement money on their garden. Area of the home UK homeowners have spent the most money on Percentage Garden 20% Living room 17% Bedroom 14% Kitchen 14% Bathroom 9% Dining Room 3% Study/office 3% Roof 3% Conservatory 2% Garage/garage conversion 2% Loft/attic 2% Balcony 1% Basement 1% Annexe 1% Our love of gardening has blossomed during and following the pandemic. When asked what home projects they’d invest in if money were no object, a third (32%) of respondents said a garden summer house or work studio and almost a fifth (18%) said a greenhouse or vegetable patch. This green-fingered trend could be seen across the age groups, with the exception of Gen Z who claimed their kitchen was the room they’d spent the most on in 2021, and a home gym would be the top priority if money were no object. Which area of the home would Brits invest in if money were no object? If money was no object, which home projects would you consider investing in, as a direct result of the pandemic, if any? Area of the home Percentage of respondents Garden summer house/work studio 31.62% Greenhouse/vegetable patch 17.86% Indoor gym 17.21% Leisure room 15.76% Office 12.52% Outdoor/indoor pub or bar 12.07% More walls/rooms for more privacy 8.28% Other, please specify 8.18% Bike storage 7.28% Classroom 3.39% Top home furnishing purchases in 2021 Furniture / Home Accessory Percentage of respondents Lamps/Lighting 41% Cushions 40% Curtains/Blinds 39% Mattress 30% Artwork 29% Sofa/Armchair 28% Bookcases/shelving 28% Bed 28% Vases 27% Clocks 26% Storage cabinet 26% Office chair 24% Top 5 retailers to purchase furniture in 2021 Retailer Percentage of respondents Ikea 27.03% Dunelm 27.03% Next 17.13% The Range 17.13% John Lewis 16.47% How have UK homeowners funded their renovation projects? The majority of UK homeowners have used some form of savings as a way of funding their home improvements, with 20% using money originally intended for holidays. Seven percent of UK homeowners have used funds originally intended to purchase a car, and 5% using cash originally intended for an engagement ring. Why are UK homeowners investing in their properties? While over half of UK homeowners may have cited the pandemic playing a significant role in their decision to dabble with DIY, money.co.uk were also interested in finding out the reason why so many of us are spending time and money on our homes in 2021. Over a quarter (27%) of those asked said that spending less money on going out had given them more money to spend on their homes and over a fifth (22%) cited wanting to increase the value of their home. Salman Haqqi, personal finance expert at money.co.uk comments on the study: “DIY and home renovations was a trend that boomed during the pandemic – a way for many of us to pass the time and spruce up the space we were living in when we were confined to our homes. “Although restrictions have eased and normal life has almost fully resumed, our research shows that many UK homeowners are still continuing to renovate and invest in their properties. We found that despite a relatively rainy summer, gardens have taken the top spot on many people’s DIY to-do list – which is potentially a long-term knock-on effect of the months in lockdown. “While some renovations like a fresh coat of paint can be relatively cheap, some larger home makeover projects can cost several thousands of pounds. One potential way to finance your home renovation project is by securing a loan. However, it’s important to consider if you can afford the loan, how you intend to repay it and the implications on your credit score if you can’t keep up the repayments.”
Much needed new accommodation for Manchester’s growing student community developed by Alumno has reached the landmark topping out stage on schedule with the structure of the building now complete. Built on a site south of the city centre previously occupied by the disused Church Inn public house and close to major arterial road The Mancunian Way, the nine-storey building will consist of 62 studio apartments, along with a communal area, rooftop terrace, office and storage space for 16 bikes. Landscaping will also be carried out to highlight the history of the site, with the reclaimed facade bricks being used to create a bespoke seating area outside the development. The location is close to a range of facilities and departments of Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester School of Art, Manchester Business School and the University of Manchester. Built by the GMI Construction Group, the development supports two key ambitions of Manchester City Council. First, to prioritise purpose-built student accommodation to protect family homes from conversion to multiple occupation properties. Second, to achieve a zero-carbon target for Manchester by establishing student accommodation close to educational establishments, reducing the need for travel and minimising emissions. Scheduled for completion for the start of the 2022 academic year, the development has been designed by Carson & Partners to enhance and complement the local area. It will also directly benefit the adjacent community, with Alumno partnering charity One Manchester to secure a £50,000 fund for local community projects. “We are also working to provide pioneering navigation aids using GPS wayfinding technology to help visually impaired students, and will install CCTV surveillance equipment to ensure the site is safe and secure, and deter anti-social behaviour,” explained Alumno Managing Director David Campbell. “I’m delighted we have reached this landmark stage on schedule, and as usual with our student residences, look forward to commissioning new public art to further enhance the public space around the building.” Commenting on the development, Iain Carson from Carson & Partners said: “It’s exciting to see another of our projects with Alumno that will rejuvenate and enhance the local area reach the topping out stage.” Marc Banks of GMI added: “Getting to this stage is a real team effort, and we’re all looking forward to going full steam ahead to ensure students can benefit from the building in 2022.”
Construction begins on new £50 million speculative development in Bellshill Knight Property Group has appointed Fife-based Muir Construction as the main contractor on the first two phases of it’s speculative development at Belgrave Logistics Park, in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. Planning consent was granted in September and works have commenced at the brand new £50 million development on the 14-arce site of the former Devro manufacturing facility. The first two phases will comprise four high-quality units of 19,191 sq ft, 29,272 sq ft, 34,290 sq ft, and 48,405 sq ft respectively. A final fifth unit of 126,795 sq ft will follow in phase three to reach circa 245,000 sq ft in total for the park. Each unit will have an EPC rating of ‘A’ and will be BREEAM accredited. Further green credentials include electric car charging points, solar photovoltaics panels to the roof, all electric heat recovery / air conditioning to offices, electricity for the units will come from a 100% renewable source and water management flow restriction is provided to conserve water use. The construction process for phases one and two started in January and are due for completion in quarter three this year. Howard Crawshaw, Managing Director of Knight Property Group said: “We are pleased to see Muir Construction commence works at this exciting new logistics park. As well as having a host of sustainability features, this development has the potential to bring much-needed business and employment opportunities to the area.” “We are confident that it will generate strong interest, as there remains significant demand in the market for this type of property and occupier requirements remain strong, particularly around Scotland’s ‘golden triangle’ where the development is located.” Patrick Reel, Joint Managing Director of Muir Construction added: “Having worked with Knight Property Group over a number of years, we are delighted to be appointed again and look forward to successfully delivering the first two phases at Belgrave later this year. “We currently have 30 personnel on site, including 25 ground and plant operators, plus five from the management team. The works currently being carried out are principally ground works, foundations and drainage, in preparation for the first of the steel being delivered next week.” Belgrave Logistics Park will be situated within the popular Bellshill Industrial Estate with excellent transport links and quick access to the A725 dual carriageway which provides direct access to the M8 motorway between Glasgow and Edinburgh and also the M74 which is Scotland’s main road link south. Glasgow international airport is only 25 minutes drive west via the M8 motorway and Edinburgh International airport is only 40 minutes drive east. Alan Gilkison, Partner at letting agent Ryden said: “This development provides much-needed logistics and distribution space in the central belt of Scotland. We have already noted positive Interest from a range of potential occupiers seeking high-quality, well-located space.” Ryden is the letting agent for Knight Property Group at Belgrave Logistics Park. Further information on can be found HERE
The Ground Source Heat Pump Association, which represents heat pump system designers, contractors and installers across the UK, welcomes the BEIS Select Committee’s report on Heat Decarbonisation (to be published on 3 February). Laura Bishop, chair of the GSHPA, said: “The Select Committee acknowledges the central importance of heat pumps to decarbonise heating in homes across the UK; without heat pumps, the UK’s Net Zero ambitions will be hard to achieve. As the Committee points out, the pace of change now needs to pick up and firm policy measures put in place, if the Government’s ambition to see 600,000 heat pumps installed every year by 2028 is to be realised.” “Undoubtedly, it’s a complex and challenging task but it can be met through specific policy instruments and through greater collaboration with Government – central, devolved, regional and local, the heating industry, Trades Unions and importantly the customer.” “Households across the country need greater assurance about the cost and environmental benefits of heat pumps, and the practicalities of switching from a gas boiler to a low-carbon heat pump. Heat pumps are suitable for the majority of homes in the UK.” “The GSHPA is pleased that the Select Committee has highlighted a number of measures to ramp up the heat pump roll-out, not least the need for a consumer finance scheme, selected grants for consumers and industry, improved training/upskilling of the labour market and a Heat Decarbonisation Sector Deal. These are all measures that the GSHPA has called for, as well as the lifting of the environmental levies on electricity for those using heat pumps. These environmental levies are inhibiting the adoption of heat pumps and encouraging the continued burning of gas for heating and are undermining the UK’s heat decarbonisation policies.” “The GSHPA will continue to work closely with Government and all interested parties to deliver the country’s Net Zero ambitions, and the specific ambition to have low-carbon domestic heating in all parts of the UK.”
Concrete admixture manufacturer Oscrete UK has heralded a new chapter following its investment in a standalone company within the Christeyns group this month. Oscrete, one of the UK’s leading specialist construction chemical suppliers, manufactures and supplies a range of high performance super-plasticising admixtures, waterproofing agents and efflorescence controllers for the precast and ready-mix concrete and the ready-to-use mortar industries. It has operated within the international Christeyns group since 1983. In a move designed to supercharge the company’s construction supply, customer service and new product development, Oscrete has announced its new chapter of independence which it says, will facilitate a period of intense investment and a renewed focus on core markets. Director Scott Wilson, who has more than 25 years experience in the construction sector, said: “The pandemic brought considerable challenges in the construction sector, quickly followed by substantial growth and we’ve recognised we need a bespoke business model dedicated entirely to our industry to facilitate growth, NPD within our inhouse development lab and specialist recruitment. “Operating independently will also allow us to develop systems which complement those of our customers, to place even greater focus on our specialist areas of technical support, chemistry, engineering solutions, admixture manufacture and supply. He added: “This an exciting time for the construction sector with its strong emphasis on sustainable growth and continuous improvement. We’re looking forward to taking the Oscrete values and expertise into a new era of growth, partnerships and of embracing the challenges of this thriving building sector.”
The West Fraser (formerly known as Norbord) Inverness plant was in the spotlight this week when it featured in Michael Portillo’s Great Coastal Railway Journey series where the processes of wood panel production were highlighted to the broadcaster and former MP during a guided tour of the plant. The manufacturer, referred to by its previous name Norbord in the documentary series, showcased how the mill created the wood panels from planted woodland, which are then used in construction to create walls, floors, and ceilings. Portillo was given a guided tour by Steve McTaggart, who has worked at the mill for 35 years, and was shown the inner workings of how timber is treated and how the facility produces 16 million boards per year. Located next to the railway, the show also highlighted the West Fraser mill’s plans to build sidings to allow for freight train deliveries to the site. Stuart Hendry, General Manager at West Fraser’s Inverness mill, said: “We were delighted to invite popular broadcaster Michael Portillo for a guided tour of our Inverness plant and showcase how we continue to provide vital and sustainable wood panelling to key suppliers and operators across Europe. It was fantastic to see the hard work of our Inverness manufacturing team highlighted and we’re thrilled that the beloved broadcaster and documentary presenter found our industry both fascinating and hugely important for Scottish industry.” For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit Uk.westfraser.com
Every year in the UK, around 1,300 employees are hospitalised due to serious injuries following a forklift incident.¹ In fact, accident figures based on RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) over the last three years show that 43% of incidents involving a forklift truck were impacts with a third person.2 Of these, around 65% were pedestrians, 20% co-workers and 15% delivery drivers watching or assisting with loading or unloading their vehicle. Whether using a forklift in a warehouse, at a distribution centre, an airport or seaport, the dangers to others are clear. The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) stipulates that there must be adequate segregation of forklift trucks and pedestrians within the workplace. But how do you ensure these areas aren’t breached inadvertently? Emily Hardy, a vehicle safety expert and marketing manager at Brigade Electronics UK, says: “Approximately 70% of incidents on sites happen during initial machine start-up and low speed movement because of poor visibility. Warehouses, distribution centres, seaports and airports can all be extremely challenging environments with numerous hazards to navigate. The presence of ground staff and pedestrians makes these areas particularly difficult in terms of ensuring safety is maintained at all times.” Smart technology is helping to address the problem of restricted visibility and blind spots in handling areas. These include the very latest RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology, such as Brigade’s ZoneSafe proximity warning system. Designed for use in areas such as warehouses, construction sites, manufacturing sites, waste sites, airports and distribution centres, ZoneSafe uses vehicle-mounted antennas that communicate with detection tags, which can be worn by workers, set up in restricted areas or placed on objects or property. When a tag enters a detection zone, the vehicle operator will automatically receive a visual and audible alert via the in-cab control unit, which will enable them to take the necessary action. Tags worn by workers on foot will also vibrate to warn of an approaching vehicle. Due to the RFID technology, which does not require line-of-sight, tags will be detected regardless of obstructions, blind spots, adverse weather conditions or poor visibility. Each tag can be uniquely identified and linked to individual people. Emily continued: “This technology is ideal for vehicles, like forklift trucks, that frequently operate within close proximity of workers and other machines. It provides fast, reliable and accurate data exchange without any limitation on the number of tags or antennas in operation, making it perfect for large areas like warehouses and distribution centres.” According to RIDDOR, as the number of forklift truck injuries is on the rise, more will need to be done to address the issue of enhancing safety in areas where forklifts are in use. Emily added: “Driver training is obviously key to ensuring safety standards are adhered to. However, vehicle safety technology can add an additional layer of security and peace of mind for operators who are keen to ensure that their workplaces remain hazard free.”
Collett increase wind energy carrying capacity with the acquisition of Plant Speed’s wind turbine fleet. Halifax based Collett & Sons Ltd and Bristol’s Plant Speed have agreed a deal which will see their specialist wind turbine equipment join the Collett fleet. Taking the decision to remove themselves from the wind energy industry and focus more on their haulage operations, Plant Speed’s entire fleet of super wing carriers, extendable trailers and lift adapters have been acquired by Collett. With multiple wind energy projects scheduled throughout 2022, Collett took the opportunity to expand their wind turbine fleet, adding Nooteboom super wing carriers, quadruple extendable blade trailers and lift adapters, alongside several specialist adapters including gyrostat tables, loading beds and tower hooks. As a well-established operator in the wind energy industry, the addition of this new equipment increases Collett’s carrying capacity and adds to their already diverse fleet, providing a definitive range of specialist equipment with which to undertake wind farm development projects. “This strategic decision for Plant Speed is one which sees our company focus shift from wind turbine delivery projects.” Adds Paul Lomas, Plant Speed, Managing Director. “Having worked closely with Collett in the past, the decision to amalgamate our fleet in to theirs was an easy one to make, and whilst we may not be operating in the wind turbine industry going forwards, this is a move which will allow Plant Speed to focus on other specialist haulage operations.” Speaking about the expansion of the Collett fleet, Managing Director, David Collett adds, “with several projects scheduled, and currently underway, this move sees Collett strengthen our market position. Having worked in the renewable energy industry for many years, the acquisition of this new trailer equipment is a decisive move for Collett, and one which significantly increases our wind turbine carrying capabilities.”
Mike Foster, CEO of the Energy and Utilities Alliance, says: “Now we know the impact of the global energy crisis upon the average consumer, a price cap increase of £693 to £1971 a year. Millions more households will now be thrown into fuel poverty, through no fault of their own and that unenviable choice, between heating and eating will become the reality for more in our communities. “It would be churlish to ignore the Government’s response, any help is better than none. But using council tax to rebate bill increases seems a very blunt instrument, which fails to take into account actual household incomes but does reflect 1991 house values. I fear the distribution of this rebate will not be fair and many winners will not be the low paid. “The proposed loan to energy companies to keep bills £200 lower now, but to be paid back later, is a stunt designed to appear to help. It is a heat now, pay later scheme that simply delays the pain not reduce it. “But the fundamental root cause of the problem has not been addressed in today’s announcement. How does the UK shift away from global fossil fuel prices? We now need a firm commitment from the Government to wean us off natural gas and onto hydrogen, which we can produce ourselves, and convert our world-class gas network to run on hydrogen. That way, Putin will not hold us hostage, with his fingers turning the gas taps off, jacking up prices and forcing UK households to choose between heating and eating.”