For nearly 40 years, Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd has run a successful family business and become one of the largest companies in the whole of Gloucestershire. Operated by two generations of the Smith family, the company offers a wide range of services to the Construction industry. The business is rapidly gaining
Heras has launched the next generation of perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDSs) to provide even greater levels of perimeter protection, for use at sites with specific security and perimeter protection requirements – such as warehouses and distribution centres with high value stockholding. The company – which is one of Europe’s
In collaboration with leading global off-site manufacturer CIMC, Chapman Taylor has developed an innovative and high-quality modular residential format for the UK market. Using volumetric, off-site technology, Chapman Taylor has designed multifamily apartment layouts for CIMC’s patented modular system, which is capable of quickly and flexibly delivering 1-bed, 2-bed and
A landmark 20 storey 100% affordable residential tower in West Ealing, London has been granted approval on Appeal, with the Inspector praising the ‘exemplary design.’ The development – 55 West – will provide 144 affordable apartments, with split level ground floor amenity and communal spaces. 50 of the homes will be London
Oxford University Development, a £4bn joint venture between the University of Oxford and Legal & General Capital, today announces the launch of an international design competition to find a creative, forward-thinking masterplan team for its world-leading £1billion, 190-hectare mixed-use Innovation District at Begbroke Science Park. The winning design team will
Public sector procurement experts LHC London and South East will be hosting a free webinar on 16 November, 10am – 11am about their latest Public Buildings Construction and Infrastructure (PB3) Framework. The £1.6 billion framework will help local authorities, social landlords and other public sector bodies to source contractors for works
Fifteen contractors have won places on a new £500 million framework to deliver new build, infrastructure and refurbishment works for the public sector in Scotland. The Public Buildings and Infrastructure (PB3) framework from Livingston-based SPA allows public sector organisations in Scotland to source contractors for works relating to the construction and refurbishment
Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie, says changes to Part L of the building regulations will see housebuilders increasingly consider alternative ways to improve airtightness as energy ratings for buildings and property are tightened. Changes to Part L of the Building Regulations, which come into effect December 2021,
Hopes are high that the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference – COP26 – will help to bring about significant change for the future of our planet. The construction industry is increasingly aware of the important role it must play in tackling the crisis – but how can it foster
Following the release of the latest UK Construction PMI today (4 November) and with the Bank of England’s (BoE) interest rate decision expected at 12pm, Martin Longmore, Partner at MHA, says the end of the stamp duty holiday failed to rein in demand and the jury is out whether a
For nearly 40 years, Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd has run a successful family business and become one of the largest companies in the whole of Gloucestershire. Operated by two generations of the Smith family, the company offers a wide range of services to the Construction industry. The business is rapidly gaining market share in the Waste Management and Recycling sector and is currently exploring the future of biomass energy. To continue to improve their C&D waste recovery facility and remain competitive, they have recently invested in a new Kiverco C&D static plant to future-proof their business. Commenting on the investment, Ian Watson stated: “We chose Kiverco to deliver our new plant as they have an exceptional reputation for quality and reliability. Our old plant had become unreliable and was not sustainable. Kiverco is the leading C&D plant provider in the UK, and we wanted to invest in the very best of waste separation plants to ensure higher levels of purity and greater throughput for our business to grow. Sustainability is very important to the Smith family, we’re very aware of the strains on our environment, and we see our new asset as an investment for generations to come.” For almost 30 years, Kiverco has been designing, manufacturing, and installing recycling plants for diverse sectors and waste streams including, construction & demolition; commercial and industrial; municipal solid waste; energy from waste; incinerator bottom ash; dry mixed recyclables; RDF/SRF fuel preparation; glass; compost; plastics and fines treatment. Commenting on the new project, Marcus McAlinden from Kiverco stated: “Smiths (Gloucester) Ltd had carried out extensive research over the past few years for a waste processing plant that would increase their throughput tonnages and achieve high levels of purity in their recyclables. Smiths is one of the largest construction and waste management companies in the South West, so equipment reliability and backup were crucial to the decision-making. They required a plant that would be capable of processing a huge quantity of C&D waste and we were able to sit down with them and design a plant that would meet all of their needs. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Smith family and their management team for choosing Kiverco to deliver their new plant, and we look forward to supporting them in any way we can. Kiverco recycling plants are utilised worldwide from the Middle East to North America and across Europe to Australasia – with more than 300 installations in the UK alone. Kiverco is raising the bar on recycling and transforming the value of waste for their customers and the planet. They provide innovative, high-performing waste processing plants, bespoke services, and their skilled workforce is advancing recycling solutions.
Heras has launched the next generation of perimeter intrusion detection systems (PIDSs) to provide even greater levels of perimeter protection, for use at sites with specific security and perimeter protection requirements – such as warehouses and distribution centres with high value stockholding. The company – which is one of Europe’s leading end-to-end supplier of permanent and mobile perimeter protection solutions – is building on the first generation of PIDSs with significant innovations that have resulted in a new, simplified portfolio with next-generation capabilities. Its new GeoMic and GeoPoint systems – which both have pro versions – are designed to complement and greatly increase the overall effectiveness of both existing and specified perimeter protection fence and gate lines. PIDSs are usually perimeter fence mounted (but they can also be wall or ceiling mounted) and are installed on the fence fabric to detect any potential intruders attempting to enter the site by climbing over, cutting through or even going under the fence. When an intrusion at the perimeter meets the alarm criteria, PIDSs will transmit an alarm signal directly to an alarm panel and/or integrated software management system (SMS) so that the onsite security team (or designated staff) can verify, and act upon, the alarm in an appropriate and timely manner. Three critical attributes to increase performance Heras has identified three critical attributes that will increase the performance capability of its PIDSs. The first is the improved analyser algorithms to deliver added intelligence and categorisation of threats. The second is the multiple configuration options to match the site situation and reduce false alarms. The third is the improved communication and integration options. These improvements mean that the PIDS performs more accurately, delivers better information and can be used in combination with other security measures. Chief Marketing and Technology Officer Ian Crosby says that the launch of the PIDSs in the UK is part of a strategic, Europe-wide rollout by the company as it brings to market the most advance PIDSs with next-generation capabilities. He added that GeoMic and GeoPoint have been developed specifically for UK sites requiring higher levels of perimeter security, such as secure datacentres or where the nature of a site’s operations may draw protests from the public – such as animal processing for food products. “Listening to customer feedback and that of our own installers and security integrator partners, we have taken advantage of developments in multifunctional components, coding and IP technology to significantly update and simplify our product range,” he said. “For the GeoMic products, we maintain the fantastic performance of our alpha cable and now couple this with updated and upgraded analysers to deliver best-in-class performance for perimeter detection. The brand–new GeoPoint products deliver a step up in technology, offering more flexibility and opening up new opportunities for the detection of intrusion or tampering on the perimeter but also inside it.” GeoMic GeoMic uses a discreet microphonic sensor cable (alpha) that listens for sounds – such as those generated from an intrusion attempt – around the entire perimeter. These sounds are converted into electrical signals that are transmitted to the GeoMic, which analyses the signal and then generates an alarm output, if the signal meets the configured alarm criteria. The GeoMic Pro in addition, has double the sensor range to cover a greater zone area, therefore being more cost-effective and it has twice the amount of monitored inputs and relay outputs so it can integrate with more third-party security equipment. GeoPoint The new GeoPoint sensor system utilises multiple sensors that are distributed along the fence line to detect movement and vibration. These sensors can be set up individually with reference to sensitivity and functionality, dependent on the mounting location. The sensors can be grouped into multiple unique zones around the perimeter. This enables more-accurate visual verification of an intrusion when used in conjunction with video security management. GeoPoint is not limited to fence lines only: it can also be used to bring smart detection to critical assets inside the perimeter. The pro version communicates via an IP network and is completely scalable, which is ideal for large sites and those that may grow and expand in the future.
In collaboration with leading global off-site manufacturer CIMC, Chapman Taylor has developed an innovative and high-quality modular residential format for the UK market. Using volumetric, off-site technology, Chapman Taylor has designed multifamily apartment layouts for CIMC’s patented modular system, which is capable of quickly and flexibly delivering 1-bed, 2-bed and 3-bed apartments within medium to high-rise developments, in accordance with market demand. Chapman Taylor’s Interiors team worked closely with CIMC to create the concept design and full specification for the homes, which fully meet National Space Standards. Alongside the many benefits which arise from using off-site technology such as waste, cost and quality, this product will deliver higher-quality finishes than traditional construction thanks to the precision manufacturing processes undertaken off-site while also delivering attractive commercial savings. The off-site method can help to reduce material waste by between 50% and 90%, compared to traditional construction methods, and the high quality of finishing can lead to much better energy performance, airtightness and long-term resilience, among other sustainability benefits. It is anticipated that carbon reduction will be realised through the consolidation of assembly processes all occurring within a single factory location, as opposed to demanding various materials and suppliers delivering individual components through more traditional vehicular methods on our roads. CIMC recently obtained BOPAS (Build-Offsite Property Assurance Scheme) certification, which allows a New Homes Warranty to be obtained through BLP Insurance. Certified for medium to high rise developments, this accreditation provides developers, funders and operators with the peace of mind that developments built using our residential template can obtain new homes guarantees underwritten by a major insurer as well as allowing residents to obtain a mortgage. The achievement of BOPAS certification illustrates the joint commitment of Chapman Taylor and CIMC to providing a high-quality and sustainable multifamily living solution that will help to tackle the UK’s housing shortage while providing enjoyable places to live across the country.
A landmark 20 storey 100% affordable residential tower in West Ealing, London has been granted approval on Appeal, with the Inspector praising the ‘exemplary design.’ The development – 55 West – will provide 144 affordable apartments, with split level ground floor amenity and communal spaces. 50 of the homes will be London Living Rent and 94 will be Shared Ownership. DMWR Architects was appointed by developer Southern Grove and Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing to prepare a detailed Planning Application for the landmark building in a highly sustainable, brownfield location adjacent to West Ealing Crossrail station. Following previous attempts by others for a 26-storey tower, DMWR was asked to put forward a fresh approach. Through intelligent and efficient planning, a significantly lower design was conceived, losing seven storeys but only five residential units. The design evolved through detailed consultation process with the local community, London Borough of Ealing and the GLA. Jeff Stokes, Director of DMWR Architects said, “We are extremely pleased that the planning inspector has overturned the original decision and granted permission for this much needed 100% affordable residential development. We have worked closely with Southern Grove and MTVH over a two-year period, developing a design concept, which has involved through extensive consultation and has led to the Inspector describing the scheme as ‘’an exemplary piece of design that would make a positive contribution to the area.” The conclusion of the report stated: “The proposal would deliver one hundred and forty-four units of much needed affordable housing in a tall building of exemplary design that would have no harmful impact on the character or appearance of the area, or the setting and thereby the significance of heritage assets. On that basis, it would optimise rather than maximise the use of the site.” Tom Slingsby, CEO of Southern Grove, said: “We couldn’t be happier with the design of 55 West.” “In a world where developments often look identical, 55 West has character, texture and personality in abundance. It really raises the bar for affordable housing everywhere and just shows that it can be accessible and aspirational all at the same time, with no compromise. If considered design like this is viable in London on a fully affordable scheme, there’s no excuse for any developer to create mundane and uninspirational architecture anywhere in the country.” Horizontal and vertical banding was used in the design to create a layered and distinctive, elegant form while a robust pallet of three brick shades articulate different elements within the façade, including a darker brick ‘shadow gap’ to separate the tower and shoulder buildings. Both winter gardens and balconies were placed on the extremities of the floorplates to reduce the building’s silhouette and make the most of the views across London. The scheme also benefits from large rooftop amenity and various carbon reducing initiatives, exceeding GLA requirements. Work is expected to start on site in early 2022. For further information about DMWR Architects please visit https://www.dmwr.co.uk
Oxford University Development, a £4bn joint venture between the University of Oxford and Legal & General Capital, today announces the launch of an international design competition to find a creative, forward-thinking masterplan team for its world-leading £1billion, 190-hectare mixed-use Innovation District at Begbroke Science Park. The winning design team will set the bold ambition and design intent for a project that will transform the area around the University’s Begbroke Science Park, to the north of Oxford. The project will also create a community of up to 2,000 quality homes, with new schools, public park and nature reserve. OUD’s aspiration is to create a boundary-pushing scheme that demonstrably achieves a step-change in sustainable design, delivery, and operation. The new district will seek to attract the very best minds, while driving economic growth, improving transport connections, delivering benefits for local people, as well as enhancing the surrounding natural landscape. The site will provide an exemplary new setting for the University’s world-leading science and innovation, which will help address key global challenges facing humanity – from food security and biodiversity to climate change and the urgent need to move to a zero-carbon economy. The competition invites interest from international, UK-based and local teams, encouraging large, established practices to join forces with individuals or emerging practices – to provide new perspectives on how to develop the area to its full potential. The competition is being managed by Colander Associates, who have created a hashtag, #OUDcompetition, for firms to find each other online. The winning team will be expected to offer both gravitas and experience alongside fresh thinking and radical ideas. The regeneration programme will be multi-phased. The first phase of the scheme will bring forward new facilities for the University’s research and development, as well as providing space to incubate spin-out companies. Anna Strongman, CEO, Oxford University Development, said: “We’re looking for a stellar team to design a masterplan that both responds to Oxford’s housing needs and propels the economic attraction of the new centre as a place to live, work, and foster innovation and enterprise. We want to bring together the best minds in the industry, to work with us, Cherwell District Council, and our local communities to create a masterplan of global significance.” Dr David Prout, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Planning and Resources) at the University of Oxford, added: “For nearly two decades, the University’s Science Park at Begbroke has been home to a wide range of research and development activities across our Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences departments, playing a vital role in contributing to the wider local, regional, and national economy. Oxford University is and will remain the freeholder of the majority of the land, and its strategic goal is to create an exemplary new community that the University and local residents can be proud of – a world-leading Innovation District with sustainability at its heart.” Laura Mason, CEO of Legal & General Capital: “Science, engineering and innovation have never been more important, and new schemes like Begbroke will help ensure UK universities continue to be world-leading. We are helping realise their potential by investing in much needed science infrastructure, which can incubate the great talent and innovative spin-outs which come from these first class institutions. In addition to Begbroke, Legal & General has brought forward projects, in partnership with world-leading universities, worth £2bn this year alone.” The ambition is anchored by Cherwell District Council’s Local Plan Partial Review, which has identified the site for a high-quality mixed-use development, comprising a range of research & development, residential, and associated social and physical infrastructure uses, such as schools, local centres, amenity space and recreation/leisure uses, as well as excellent connectivity to the City of Oxford by sustainable means. Aspiring entrants should visit www.colander.co.uk/architectural-competitions for more information on the criteria, and are asked to submit Stage 1 submissions by Friday 3 December 2021.
Public sector procurement experts LHC London and South East will be hosting a free webinar on 16 November, 10am – 11am about their latest Public Buildings Construction and Infrastructure (PB3) Framework. The £1.6 billion framework will help local authorities, social landlords and other public sector bodies to source contractors for works relating to the construction and refurbishment of educational, health care, emergency service and community buildings. It can also be used for residential properties within mixed-use developments, student accommodation, conversion of commercial building for residential use, and can include associated infrastructure works. Attendees to the webinar will learn everything they need to know to get the full benefit from the framework. They will have the chance to speak to LHC’s technical experts and get first-hand insight on the scope of the framework, its currently appointed contractors, technical evaluation, tender call-off procedures, and most importantly, how to access it. There will also be an opportunity at the end of the presentation for a Q&A session where attendees will be able to put forward any questions to the London and South East panel. Worth up to £750 million in England, PB3 has awarded places to forty-seven contractors. It replaces the previous Schools and Community Buildings framework, which has been updated and expanded to build on its success. It now offers a wider selection of construction contractors and will be able to assist even more public sector building projects through its four workstreams and value bands lots. Ethan James, acting regional manager at LHC London and South East said: “The launch of our Public Buildings Construction and Infrastructure framework couldn’t come at a more crucial time as the built environment faces the urgent challenges brought about by the energy and climate crisis, and the need to produce increasingly low carbon and efficient buildings. “The Government’s Autumn Budget announced an £11.5bn investment in affordable homes, and £3.9bn to aid in the decarbonisation of UK buildings, and we’re ready to support this plan with PB3 being the latest of our frameworks to make it easier to achieve low energy and zero carbon buildings. “We hope to see lots of new and familiar faces at our launch webinar this month, and I look forward to sharing all the details, answering questions, and helping local authorities and public sector workers to deliver efficient, cost-effective and zero carbon projects in their communities.” Sign up to the free PB3 framework webinar taking place on 16 November 2021, 10am – 11am by registering on the link: https://bit.ly/3EHOYXX For more information on PB3 and LHC’s other frameworks, visit the website: www.lhc.gov.uk/
Fifteen contractors have won places on a new £500 million framework to deliver new build, infrastructure and refurbishment works for the public sector in Scotland. The Public Buildings and Infrastructure (PB3) framework from Livingston-based SPA allows public sector organisations in Scotland to source contractors for works relating to the construction and refurbishment of educational, healthcare, emergency service and community buildings. It can also be used for residential properties within mixed-use developments, as part of a commercial building conversion, or for delivering student accommodation. SPA Director, Clive Feeney, said: “Our Public Buildings and Infrastructure framework has been built with the Scottish public sector’s needs at the forefront. It offers a broader range of works, more flexibility for mixed use projects, and expanded value bands to provide more options for procuring projects. A significant new addition is the ability to procure standalone infrastructure projects, such as bridges, retaining walls, drainage and new roadways. “The new framework has been divided into five Scottish regions, with a range of regional and national contractors appointed, giving local authorities the chance to use local contractors where appropriate. We have also made changes to the pricing schedule to give partners more cost certainty at the start of the procurement process.” The PB3 framework has four workstreams, covering new build only; refurbishment only; new build and refurbishment; and new build, refurbishment and infrastructure for projects at three different value bands. All contractors on the framework have been carefully vetted and are compliant with Scottish public sector procurement legislation. The full list of appointed companies, listed alphabetically, is: Balfour Beatty Construction Ltd BAM Construction Ltd Bancon Construction Ltd CCG (Scotland) Ltd Clark Contracts Ltd Compass Building and Construction Services Ltd Galliford Try Construction Ltd GHI Contracts Ltd Hadden Construction Ltd Interserve T/A Tilbury Douglas Construction Ltd Kier Construction Ltd M & J Group (Construction and Roofing) Ltd Maxi Construction Ltd Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure Ltd. Robertson Construction Group Ltd The PB3 framework will run from 27 October 2021 until 30 September 2025, however individual call-off projects can be completed beyond the four-year duration as long as the contract is in place prior to the framework expiry date. PB3 replaces SPA’s previous Schools and Community Buildings SCB1 and 2 frameworks, under which SPA Partners delivered 11 new primary schools, 13 new nurseries, 28 primary school expansions and 26 primary and secondary school refurbishments. Most recently, West Dunbartonshire Council used SPA’s SCB2 framework to procure its £15.1 million Renton campus project.
Andy Swift, sales and operations manager for ISO-Chemie, says changes to Part L of the building regulations will see housebuilders increasingly consider alternative ways to improve airtightness as energy ratings for buildings and property are tightened. Changes to Part L of the Building Regulations, which come into effect December 2021, are part of the Government’s national drive to see all new homes from 2025 deliver a 75% saving on carbon emissions when measured against current standards. In particular, Part L sees the provision for stricter standards and compliance procedures around energy and ventilation performance, laying out a roadmap to a net zero carbon future and new homes designed and built in-line with stricter carbon emissions targets. However, despite great strides in housing design and development, evidence continues to point to doors and windows as being the biggest culprits when it comes to the nation’s chronic energy inefficient homes. Indeed, it might be said that in the light of product innovation, its almost ‘criminal’ that the hundreds of thousands of new or retrofit installations completed each year remain unchecked or unregulated. This will leave a legacy of problems for years to come and cost millions of pounds to rectify. This is a pity because with advancements in cost effective, easy-to-use technologies, there should never be any justifiable reason for delaying or avoiding the specification of better energy efficient window and door sealing solutions. Right direction In this respect, the changes to Part L have to be seen as a step in the right direction for the fenestration sector. It will see requirements for improvements in air tightness, forcing them from 10 air changes per hour down to 8 air changes per hour and also U value on windows shifting from 1.6 to 1.2wm2 k/H, which will require more energy efficient sealant solutions such as thermal foam tapes. Heat will always find the fastest exit as it comes up against the ‘A’ or ‘A+’ rated window, and invariably this emanates from the 10mm or so expansion gap left around the window following fitment. This is normally left empty, but some amount of spray foam can be injected to fill the void before a silicone trim is applied for a smart looking finish. Unfortunately, as expedient as this might seem, none of these solutions create a measurable, long term, high performance thermal, acoustic or airtight barrier – the U-Value of the installed window is simply reduced, which leads to heat escape and, ultimately, financial loss. That’s why the house building industry and wider construction sector deserves better insulating solutions to improve energy efficiencies, especially if as predicted, the UK market stays buoyant over the next 12 months as the economy continues to recover from the pandemic and building and construction activity remains busy, particular in the face of a chronic national housing shortage and the need to build more affordable housing. In modular construction, which is gaining increasing traction and will see continued integration with the more traditional methods of building in 2022, enabling developers to bring forward housing projects more expediently, designers and specifiers are looking at new ways to deliver low carbon structures, which use sustainable technologies to deliver measurable airtight, acoustic and thermal sealing benefits. And this is where self-adhesive foam sealing tapes can add real value, enabling developers to bring forward housing projects more expediently. They can use ‘smart’ foams impregnated with different substances to create a measurable U-Value as low as 0.6w/m2k, offer superb thermal insulation and can contribute to acoustic sound reduction by 63dB. As these installation tapes are completely weather tight against driving rain up to hurricane force wind speeds, installers can quickly apply them around the frame during initial fitting. This provides the assurance that they have completed a comprehensive ‘A’ rated installation rather than just supplying an ‘A’ rated window. This is a benefit that can be sold on to deliver enhanced energy efficiency advantages for customers and property owners. Fit for future Building regulation changes will have an unequivocal impact as energy ratings for buildings and property become stricter, and these include energy and ventilation standards for residential and non-domestic buildings that are far better for the environment and fit for the future – higher air and thermal standards for house construction has to be a priority. Technical innovation through sealing technologies is one way that those responsible for fenestration specification can do more to support greater energy efficiency and mee the requirements of Part L. Indeed, as sustainability continues to be of paramount concern in the development of low carbon and eco-friendly building projects, we will see technologies such as energy foam tapes, which can add real value during the initial and post construction phases, only grow in importance as the most effective solutions for sealing window and door frame expansion joints and gaps in houses. Today, there are effective products out there to ensure that airtightness and thermal efficiency within buildings should never be overlooked or ignored – it’s simply a matter of designing in these products. More at https://www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/
Hopes are high that the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference – COP26 – will help to bring about significant change for the future of our planet. The construction industry is increasingly aware of the important role it must play in tackling the crisis – but how can it foster real results? National framework provider Pagabo’s latest ‘Building Blocks’ podcast, hosted by executive chairman Gerard Toplass, and featuring Julia Barrett, chief sustainability officer at national contractor Willmott Dixon and Jose Hernandez, director of sustainability at multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard, explored the issues. Gerard said: “The Construction Playbook and Build Back Better initiatives rolled out by the UK Government have already placed sustainability, net zero emissions and a change in best practice at the forefront of work in the built environment. Now it is hoped the crucial COP26 summit in Glasgow will strengthen global action, provide a strategic vision and allocate sufficient resources for solutions to tackle the issues we face. “There has been a sea change in the world’s view of the climate crisis, influenced by a number of factors such as high-profile campaigning, media reporting, increased awareness among young people, recent weather extremes and our post-pandemic recovery. It feels very much like this is something that people are taking more seriously now during their daily lives and are calling for real action from our leaders.” Awareness of environmental issues is finally increasing “While many businesses have spent the best part of a decade looking at sustainability in terms of their own activity, reducing carbon emissions and maximising recycling for example, we now recognise on a wider scale that more must be done as a united front. The general awareness is now much greater; we need only look to the likes of the UN’s Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change declaring a ‘code red for humanity’ and the Environment Agency warning on natural disaster deaths that will happen here and elsewhere to see that. “We need new strategies to build on what we have already achieved, taking into account Scope 3 emissions; this may consider employee travel and commuting as well as those emissions associated with the processing of raw materials and contracted solid waste disposal among other things. “As an industry, we have a responsibility to think about our approach both in terms of materials and the impact they have on emissions during production, otherwise referred to as embodied carbon. For example, concrete production represents around eight per cent of the world’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.” Jose added: “It is concerning that reports have shown that last year global emissions may have reduced by six per cent but the forecast for this year is an increase of four per cent. Moreover, the entire building and construction industry must understand its role when considering it is responsible for roughly 40 per cent of the world’s carbon emissions. It is critical that we use all this information as an opportunity to decouple absolute and relative carbon emissions from economic growth.” Covid-19 took our choices away and forced us to change Julia said: “One of the key impacts of the pandemic is how it has actually advanced the environmental agenda, not least because of the way the construction industry adapted but also because of the dramatic decrease in people travelling. “Businesses realised they could save time, expense and increase efficiency through online meetings and virtual working. We all recognise the importance of in-person meetings for relationship building but the new hybrid approach to working has been a real positive to come from the last 18 months.” Modern construction methods are key As well as delivering great buildings, the industry has a responsibility to ensure they perform at the best level through their operation lifecycle and with minimised embodied carbon. By the time a new building is in use, between 30 and 70 per cent of its lifetime emissions are accounted for. Julia added: “In practice, this means engaging clients early on in the brief to ensure that sustainability and efficiencies are embedded rather than an ‘add on’. Understanding that addressing environmental impact early on, despite some larger upfront costs, will also have a positive economic outcome in the long-term is vital. This is a shift change in some cases but will play a hugely important role in supporting the climate change agenda. “It’s also really important that supply chain SMEs must know what they are spending on fuel and energy because of the impact on their carbon emissions. According to the CBI, only 11 per cent of SMEs know what their carbon emissions are, which is a massive opportunity to reduce fuel costs thereby increasing profits while protecting the planet.” The benefits of frameworks Gerard continued: “The key elements in a framework are the references to whole life carbon. The impact doesn’t stop once the building has been completed and starts being used – and this is vital when it comes to climate change and sustainability. “Frameworks provide a consistent structure and scope, giving firms an opportunity for growth and alignment. It levels the playing field in a collaborative and positive way to drive up standards, creating a ‘gold standard’. The Construction Playbook has been a driver for change within the industry, but wider adoption particularly among the public sector in terms of sustainability requirements is key.” Thoughts for the future “COP26 is now underway and while we have started to see the conversation changing, there is still much to do. Each country pledged to sign up with its nationally declared contributions to reducing emissions to limit a global temperature rise but it is not yet clear what that means. It’s time to stop talking and take action. “Innovation, particularly within the construction sector, is widespread so we have an excellent opportunity to embrace sustainability and climate change as key drivers for what we do next. We collectively need to make changes now, embrace new technologies, ways of working and thinking as we make strides towards our ambitious but vital carbon targets.” Listen
Following the release of the latest UK Construction PMI today (4 November) and with the Bank of England’s (BoE) interest rate decision expected at 12pm, Martin Longmore, Partner at MHA, says the end of the stamp duty holiday failed to rein in demand and the jury is out whether a rise in interest rates and mortgages will put the brakes on either: “Those fretting that the recent end of the stamp duty holiday would dampen demand in the UK housing market needn’t have worried. Most house price indices continue to show annualised increases of between 6% and 10%. Demand is also outstripping supply with sellers still not tempted to enter the market and the supply of new properties hampered by raw material and labour shortages. “However, if the Bank of England announces any changes to the interest rate later today, or at its next meeting in December, this picture could look very different. With the rate of inflation above the BoE’s target of 2%, Monetary Policy Committee members are under increasing pressure to put up base rates. Indeed, mortgage companies have already withdrawn a significant number of their most attractive deals pending the announcement today. “Markets have factored in a limited number of base rate rises through 2022 though nobody expects these to be dramatic. As such, the jury is very much out as to whether action on interest rates (if it happens) will have a big impact on UK house prices. “The commercial property market in the UK remains turbulent. Landlords are struggling because they’ve had to provide concessions during the worst of the pandemic. They’re also facing weak demand and dealing with office tenants still bewildered over what the need for spaces over the long-term might be. The announcement of the acquisition of urban regeneration specialist U+I by property giant Landsec this week, for £190m in an all-cash deal, does imply that there may be some confidence returning to the market.”