Civil engineering and infrastructure specialist Barhale has promoted David Lally to the position of operations director. David originally joined Barhale in 2011 becoming senior general foreman after his work on the London Olympics projects and his leadership of the Optimise teams in the Thames Water, AMP5 programme. He was promoted
National plant hire company invests in 80 Cat® machines As part of its commitment to sustainable construction, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage has invested in 80 Cat machines so far in 2021, with another 20 expected to arrive later this year. This means that Lynch currently has over 200 Cat machines
If you have a commercial property that needs to be removed to make way for a new construction project – or if you are selling the land and need to ensure that the building does not remain in place, demolition is a popular option. Demolition is a huge task with
CBD (cannabidiol) products are naturally occurring plant-based substances growing in demand for self-care and wellness over more chemically-laden options on the market. The cannabinoid demonstrates thus far a level of safety in which users are placing their faith, since research has not concretely evidenced the effects or long-term protection of
Mobile Mini UK, one of the leading worldwide providers of portable accommodation and secure storage containers has launched a new QR code initiative as part of its ongoing evolution of digital incident reporting systems. The company has won multiple awards for their approach to health and safety in 2021 but
Hörmann UK have launched a new high speed industrial sectional door, the Series 60 which has been designed and developed to provide the Hörmann guarantee of quality construction, high security, and easy installation. When fitted with the new WA 500 FU operator, the Series 60 can achieve an impressive door
The Briton brand is synonymous with the best in door controls and exit hardware and Allegion is pleased to announce the launch of the newly designed, end-user focused Briton website. Following updates to their brand style, the new Briton website boasts a streamlined, modern design and concentrates on providing customers
Industry body Homes for Scotland (HFS) has responded to this afternoon’s Programme for Government, welcoming the commitment to increased levels of affordable housing whilst warning of deliverability concerns across homes of all tenures in light of material shortages and cost pressures. The organisation also highlights the very real impact that
Research from the national estate agent, Keller Williams UK, explains why UK house price growth could remain buoyant until at least summer 2022. House prices have reached phenomenal highs since the start of the pandemic, a shortage of supply and ever-increasing demand means homes are selling for handsome sums and
PROPERTY, construction and infrastructure consultancy Perfect Circle has been appointed by Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB) to provide project management, cost management and CDM advice services on a once-in-a-generation transformation of the former Machynlleth Union Workhouse – currently operating as Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital. Based in the heart of Machynlleth, a popular market town
Civil engineering and infrastructure specialist Barhale has promoted David Lally to the position of operations director. David originally joined Barhale in 2011 becoming senior general foreman after his work on the London Olympics projects and his leadership of the Optimise teams in the Thames Water, AMP5 programme. He was promoted to Southern Region operations manager in 2015 and supervised the delivery of the Thames Water, AMP6 framework for eight2O. David will report directly to the new Barhale CEO, Martin Brown, who joins the business in September. Barhale director, Andy Flowerday said that David would be a great fit for the role, “With more than 20 years in civil engineering, including 10 years at Barhale, he fully understands the delivery challenges we face and the core values that the company pursues in all of its projects. “David’s role will focus on providing direct engagement between frontline operational teams and senior management throughout all business units. His primary responsibilities will be maximising productivity and resource utilisation, programme achievement and “Right First Time” delivery, together with supporting and responding to operational needs to mitigate issues and maximise opportunities.”
National plant hire company invests in 80 Cat® machines As part of its commitment to sustainable construction, L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage has invested in 80 Cat machines so far in 2021, with another 20 expected to arrive later this year. This means that Lynch currently has over 200 Cat machines in its fleet. As long-term adopters of Stage V compliant equipment, Lynch were proud to be able to add the world’s first high drive electric drive dozer to its fleet, purchasing five D6 XEs already this year. Alongside the new dozers, Lynch invested in several machines from Caterpillar®’s next generation range. Lynch supports operators with Eco Driver Training, to ensure that operators are driving their machines in the most efficient way. The extra technology onboard these machines was a welcome addition that not only helps the operator and reduces fuel consumption. “At Lynch we understand the importance of continually upgrading our modern and reliable fleet,” explained Chris Gill, Director at Lynch. “We were impressed by the amount of technology loaded onto the next generation machines, particularly the features that support machine control, telematics and weigh loading. “We know it’s important to have equipment that is reliable and equipped with the best technology available, as we are involved in so many large infrastructure projects, such as HS2 and various Highways England schemes. We also want to attract the best talent in the industry to operate our plant and running state-of-the-art machines on fleet helps us achieve this.” “The investment in these Cat machines reaffirms our strong working relationship with Lynch,” said Jake Wright, National Account Manager at Finning. “It is always a pleasure to work with Lynch and help it to expand its fleet with new machines, all loaded with new features. The team has certainly cemented the company’s place as an adopter of new technology and, with continued investments, it will rightly keep its place at the forefront of the industry.” All the machines purchased by Lynch are supported by Cat Finance and covered by extended warranties, which means that Finning will service each piece of equipment after 500 hours of work. In line with the company’s growth, Lynch is expecting to place another order with Finning in 2022, even larger than this year’s. For more information on Cat next generation excavators or its XE series, visit www.finning.com.
If you have a commercial property that needs to be removed to make way for a new construction project – or if you are selling the land and need to ensure that the building does not remain in place, demolition is a popular option. Demolition is a huge task with a huge array of issues that need to be considered and accounted for. Everyone involved in a demolition needs to understand how the project is going to be managed, what is going to happen, and what is expected of them. Safety and efficiency are absolutely essential, so it is vital to understand the relevant steps that need to be taken to manage it properly. Here we take a look at how to prepare your commercial property for demolition. Work with specialists The first thing to say is that each demolition is unique and will have specific needs and restrictions. It’s a great idea to work with demolitions specialists who have taken on similar projects, and understand what needs to be done. Given the inherent risks and dangers associated with demolition, you must put in place every possible precaution to keep workers and the public safe. Working with professionals who have been entrusted with similar projects in the past can give you the peace of mind that you are following the correct procedures. Communicate with everyone involved A crucial part of a successful demolition is clear communication throughout. Misunderstandings and assumptions can leave essential tasks unfinished, and people in the wrong place at the wrong time – these are the last things that you want during a demolition. Ensure that everyone involved uses all of the same lines of communication throughout the process. It can also help to schedule regular meetings with the key people who can then pass on the information to those who need it. Communication is also important for the perspective of liaising with relevant authorities regarding the matters of demolition. Local authorities, owners of adjacent properties and anyone else who might be affected need to be contacted, and a plan developed around their needs. Conduct relevant surveys Having surveys carried out is a legal obligation with demolition work. These surveys look at the building and demolition plan to find any risks that could affect the project. The first and most important survey is known as an R&D (or, Refurbishment and Demolition) and was previously known by the name Type 3 asbestos survey. This survey uses ‘intrusive and destructive methods to allow (the surveyor) to gain access to difficult-to-reach areas such as roof voids, wall interiors, solid floors and under crofts’ in order to establish whether any asbestos is present in the building. If this is the case, it would need to be removed before demolition can take place. You also need to have a dilapidation survey to assess the condition of the structure. This type of survey gives you a good understanding of any existing damage or existing concerns that could affect the demolition. Consider deconstruction as an alternative The method of deconstruction is more expensive than a traditional demolition – but that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a popular alternative for some property owners. There are a number of reasons that some are opting for deconstruction – not least because it hugely reduces the risks and dangers involved. Additionally, it is the case that some of the cost of deconstruction can be recouped by selling the materials after the work has been completed. In a deconstruction, parts of the building are taken apart one at a time. It has the potential to be more environmentally friendly too – as materials are able to be reused rather than destroyed. It’s not the right choice for everyone, but it is worth considering. Final thoughts Carrying out a demolition project means following health and safety laws closely and doing everything by the book. Carrying out a safety assessment is your first step, before moving on to actually planning the demolition and ensuring everything runs smoothly on the day. Work directly with contractors who you trust and that can show you the credentials and experience of carrying out similar demolition works in the past. Getting it wrong can not only be extremely costly and time-consuming but can also put people at risk and leave you liable.
CBD (cannabidiol) products are naturally occurring plant-based substances growing in demand for self-care and wellness over more chemically-laden options on the market. The cannabinoid demonstrates thus far a level of safety in which users are placing their faith, since research has not concretely evidenced the effects or long-term protection of the compound in an official capacity. Look here for details on how these products work if used daily. Clinical studies are ongoing, with results released regularly showing more proof leaning towards efficacy in the wellness capacity for the cannabinoid. The public at large speaks volumes in favor of the many benefits seen from the properties of cannabidiol with routine use. In combination with the populace’s propensity for “green methodologies” to self-care and a fading stigma regarding CBD being lumped in with “illicit drugs,” these details create a desire for more people to use the compound. Thus, the incredible level of popularity we see among the industry today. Why CBD Products Studies reveal that the population as a whole demands CBD products on a grand scale. The market is booming, to say the least, and has predictions to escalate exponentially over the next several years despite an official statement from researchers evidencing the efficacy or safety of the substance. Outside an “official” status, reports from clinical studies lean towards the efficacy of the properties in many instances and speak for the safety of the substances, only not in the long term. Human trials are also minimal. Regardless, people are willing to take risks based on overwhelming anecdotal studies revealing positive results across the board. It seems more users prefer a “green methodology” to self-care, and more are finding CBD less of a threat as the stigma surrounding the herb begins to wane. That leads to an increase in popularity (and demand) as more people find reasons to incorporate the cannabinoid into their regular routine. Some reasons for usage include: – The Medical Community Is Becoming Aware With the increase in research and more studies revealing positive results, the medical community and veterinary practices are taking notice. Many healthcare practitioners are beginning to recommend CBD options to their patients for assistance with symptoms associated with specific conditions like stress or sleep challenges. Because more recommendations are coming from these industries, manufacturers in the CBD realm concentrate their efforts on developing quality products for more affordable prices to make the items accessible so the demand can be met. You can now find inventory in many online pharmacies with users in states where CBD is legal, having the luxury of placing orders from the comfort of home with orders delivered to their front door. With greater access, more people can take advantage of the cannabinoid than had the opportunity before. – Legalization Helping With Hesitancy Because more policies are developing to legalize hemp-based product use, more people are comfortable in taking that initiative where before they may have been hesitant. Still, not all countries or states within the U.S. have become legal for the use of hemp-related options. With the 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp-based products were legalized as far as production, transportation, cultivation, selling, etc., as long as these contain merely 0.2% (Europe) or 0.3% (U.S.) of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the cannabinoid responsible for intoxication with marijuana. Following the Bill’s enactment, many states automatically chose to legalize CBD hemp-based products, except Nebraska and South Dakota, where there seems to be a gray area. Please check your state and local guidelines before indulging in any cannabidiol products as a precautionary measure. – Increasing Media Attention The greater level of medical attention has sparked the population’s interest, helping to squash the stigma that follows CBD. It hasn’t faded altogether, but it is beginning to wane to a significant degree. Since content has a way of informing the masses in droves, people can educate quickly on what the compound is, the benefits and effects, and what point research has established with their studies. Due to their diligence, these platforms are responsible for eradicating some of the misconceptions that follow the cannabinoid, including the fact that it’s a non-intoxicating compound, unlike THC. CBD leans more towards self-care and wellness with minimal side effects. The web and social site platforms help inform and educate the public showing why the substance is worth a try, plus mentioning what the potential downsides are in consuming the substance. Not everyone will react the same, with some having the possibility for sensitivity. That would entail stopping with signs of side effects, which are typically minimal. Again, it’s not an exact science at this point yet, except to say, side effects pass quickly, an overdose is not a possibility. Final Thought People today are more interested in a “green methodology” to self-care, and CBD (cannabidiol) fits that medium. With clinical studies releasing reports that “lean” towards the properties’ efficacy in a wellness capacity and anecdotal reports phenomenally boasting the benefits of the compound for self-care, potential users are finding these alone reasons to at least try the products. But when you add the medical community taking notice and the stigma giving way slowly to a legitimacy, particularly with legislation that says “let’s legalize,” it gives less reason for concern and more confidence and comfort with a trial use. No one wants to put something adverse into their bodies. We all want to be safe and proactive with self-care. When reasons begin to add up to cannabidiol being a welcome addition to a self-care regimen (find out if you can incorporate products into your work schedule https://cbd.market/cbdblog/can-employees-use-cbd-oil-in-2021/), responsible people begin to listen.
Mobile Mini UK, one of the leading worldwide providers of portable accommodation and secure storage containers has launched a new QR code initiative as part of its ongoing evolution of digital incident reporting systems. The company has won multiple awards for their approach to health and safety in 2021 but has decided to invest even further in maintaining improvement from a position of strength. The newly installed digital reporting system, Assure by SHE Software, provides a flexible solution for incident reporting, as well as asset maintenance and service tracking and compliance. The business is now better placed than ever to capture all incidents, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This builds upon a three-year adoption of digital centralisation and is a clear statement of intent and commitment to maintaining the successes seen throughout this time. By utilising QR code technology, accessibility and efficiency are improved, making it easier than ever for all teams facing hazards to report the issues or challenges they face. Employees on the front line are typically extremely busy but instilling an efficient and adhered to reporting process is essential for future safety and success. Leaders will now gain faster access to more insightful data that will allow the focus to quickly switch to where the priority areas are. The system will allow and encourage benchmarking between regions and branches to track progress and measures of success where best practices can be shared. AI and automation are other key benefits of this new process, with system intelligence capable of analysing results and predicting future challenges based on historic data. This will allow teams to review the advance warnings and make informed decisions to proactively prepare for any potential challenges. In addition to QR code posters, coasters and key-fobs being supplied to every branch, Mobile Mini is encouraging employees to engage by emblazoning all high-visibility clothing, PPE and equipment with the unique Mobile Mini Safety 365 QR code. The aspiration is to ensure no matter where an incident takes place, either at branches or remotely, staff will immediately be able to see it, sort it and report it. Once this happens, actions are tracked by the system through to completion with escalation points, reminders and overdue notification alerts making it almost impossible for a requirement to be missed. Assure is not bespoke to Mobile Mini UK and is already utilised by serval leading companies around the world, but Mobile Mini has enhanced the system for maximum benefit by refining the processes to the exact nature of their operations. By taking this approach the influx of data will provide extremely accurate information to address risk and steer strategic initiatives moving forward. The system is also amendable in real-time, making the launch product a starting point that will be even further developed and finely tuned towards specific Mobile Mini needs as time and reviews progress. Chris Watcham, Health and Safety Director at Mobile Mini UK said, “We have seen a significant increase in the use of our reporting systems since we began transitioning to digital solutions three years ago and this latest effort to increase reporting aims to help increase engagement and improve on an already improving healthy safety culture within the business. Despite no major incidents over the past two years and recent international recognition from awarding bodies, we are never complacent and always aim to improve. Many of the processes we have introduced as early adopters are now accepted as the industry standard and we expect this to be another one of those success stories. “The ROI on digital reporting and QR code investments is clear when considering the benefits of preventing injuries, equipment damage and downtime. We now have a process that accurately tracks all the associated costs of incidents, accidents and near misses. Managers generally have a good understanding of the direct costs of an accident but this system takes a real granular look into events and teases out all the hidden costs which sometimes is a real eye-opener, this I believe will truly show the economic reasons for effective safety management. “The automating processes also boosts efficiency as we stand to gain a huge amount of time that would have normally been spent manually presenting data into an understandable format. Mobile Mini is synonymous with safety excellence and commitment to these kinds of developments will ensure we remain both a supplier and employer of choice.” Three of Mobile Mini UK branches were previously awarded Merits from the British Safety Council this year and the company-wide SHEQ team were named ‘Safety Team of the Year Highly Commended Winner’ at the International Safety Awards. Mobile Mini also rolled out life-saving defibrillator equipment to all of its UK branches earlier this year, for the protection of customers, clients and approximately 370 members of staff.
Hörmann UK have launched a new high speed industrial sectional door, the Series 60 which has been designed and developed to provide the Hörmann guarantee of quality construction, high security, and easy installation. When fitted with the new WA 500 FU operator, the Series 60 can achieve an impressive door opening speed of up to 1 m/s making it the fastest sectional door on the market. Not only does the Series 60 door offer an exceptional opening speed, but optimised track radii and enlarged rollers result in up to 5 dB(A) quieter door operation together with improved stability, leading to low wear and smoother door travel. Easy fitting and maintenance are aided by reduced components and the provision of press-fitted screws, whilst transition sleeves provide a precise fitting of the track and radius. The door is delivered factory set to the optimum speed but can be easily adjusted and the speed varied to suit individual operational requirements. For added security anti-lift kits are fitted on both sides of the bottom section of the door as standard, and optional RC 2 security measures are available according to DIN/TS 18194. Operator safety is enhanced by the inclusion of an in-line light grill which automatically stops the door if an obstruction occurs whilst the door is closing. The new WA 500 FU operator features soft-start and soft-stop for gentle, smooth door travel, and constant travel speed for both high-lift and vertical track applications. The set-up and commissioning of the Series 60 door is fast and simple with the provision of an innovative Bluetooth app. Accessible using either a mobile phone or tablet, the app provides users with friendly, easy to follow step-by-step instructions and also provides straightforward fault finding and diagnostic data. As part of their strategy to improve and optimise warehouse operations, Hörmann UK are installing four Series 60 doors and WA 500 FU operators at their Coalville headquarters. The doors, which will each measure 5m wide x 4.5m high, incorporate a 42mm insulated panel and triple glazed vision panels providing excellent thermal properties. Kerry Seager, Operations Manager at Hörmann UK comments, “The past 9 months have seen an increased level of vehicle movements in and out of our Coalville facility as our levels of business continue to grow. When it came to replacing our existing sectional doors in our four loading bays the Series 60 was the obviously choice. Not only will they provide us with the opportunity to speed up and streamline our operations, but they will also help to lower ventilation heat loss. Speed and ease of installation is also a crucial factor as we are limited to amount of downtime available for each loading bay, with around 200 vehicle movements in and out the facility on a daily basis there is no room for delay.” To find your local Hörmann please visit Industrial Sectional Doors Industrial Doors from Hörmann (hormann.co.uk) or call 01530 516868
The Briton brand is synonymous with the best in door controls and exit hardware and Allegion is pleased to announce the launch of the newly designed, end-user focused Briton website. Following updates to their brand style, the new Briton website boasts a streamlined, modern design and concentrates on providing customers with improved functionality and a wide collection of essential resources. The website brings together the full product portfolio of Briton Door Controls and will be updated frequently to ensure users have access to the latest information in a bid to assist users throughout the product selection process. Adopting a user-friendly navigational system, the website will act as a central resource hub and will include detailed product listings with features and specifications details, downloadable certification information, and a refreshed set of supporting product datasheets and literature. In addition, a new automatic Door Closer Calculator and useful product selectors will further help users by recommending the most suitable products for their projects. Pete Hancox, Country Manager at Allegion UK comments: “With more than 100 years of history, Briton is a trusted brand with a reputation for providing an extensive range of high-quality products that are fully certified and built to last, and we felt it was time the brand’s web presence embodied that. With that, we’ve created the new Briton website, detailed with fresh branding and one that works much harder for our customers, with improved usability and a comprehensive portfolio of the Briton door controls range. “We wanted to make it easier for people who know and use Briton products to access the information they need throughout their journey, from product selection through to installation and maintenance. Our hub of resources is something we’re extremely proud of, and we believe it will consistently support Briton customers for years to come.” Highlights of the new website, which went live on 3rd September include an updated design, extensive product support resources and streamlined user experience across all devices. Following the launch, Allegion is now proudly inviting users to view the website and its new content, including the latest installation guides and maintenance toolkits on all Briton door controls. For more information, visit: www.briton.co.uk.
Industry body Homes for Scotland (HFS) has responded to this afternoon’s Programme for Government, welcoming the commitment to increased levels of affordable housing whilst warning of deliverability concerns across homes of all tenures in light of material shortages and cost pressures. The organisation also highlights the very real impact that ignoring the plight of Scottish First Time Buyers (FTBs) will have on the future prospects of our young people. HFS Chief Executive Nicola Barclay said: “With public and private housing delivery so crucial to our social and economic outcomes, the announcement of an extra 10,000 affordable homes as a result of the recent SNP-Green co-operation agreement is very much welcomed. “However, the present issues surrounding material shortages and consequent price increases are causing significant difficulties for all housing developers, regardless of tenure. Unless the situation quickly returns to more normalised levels, we could see longer term problems being created. “This is also the case with the planning and regulatory systems which are in need of increased resources to enable local councils to cope with the levels of demand for new homes. Although the move to a digital planning application platform, as announced in today’s Programme, is encouraging, active support for more homes must go much further than that, as we emphasised in our recent response to the Scottish Government’s call for views on economic transformation. A disappointing omission from the Programme for Government in Barclay’s view was the lack of any substantial assistance (beyond LBTT relief) for FTBs: “One of the document chapters is ‘Scotland as a Land of Opportunity’ which talks about supporting young people and promoting a fairer and more equal society. In the context of the disadvantage now facing FTBs as a result of the sudden closure of the First Home Fund and main Help to Buy scheme earlier this year, coupled with the fact that 82% of Scotland’s population aspire to own their own home, it is disappointing not to see any policy intentions on this. This is in stark contrast to other parts of the UK where the First Homes initiative has recently been launched, providing discounted home ownership as an integral part of affordable housing delivery. Only by providing the full range of housing options will we meet the needs of our population”.
Research from the national estate agent, Keller Williams UK, explains why UK house price growth could remain buoyant until at least summer 2022. House prices have reached phenomenal highs since the start of the pandemic, a shortage of supply and ever-increasing demand means homes are selling for handsome sums and at breakneck speed. It has left many industry experts and commentators asking when prices will start to fall again, having already defied expectations by climbing even after the end of the initial stamp duty holiday. Keller Williams has analysed how the four seasons impact house prices and market demand over the past 36 months, a project that reveals prices are very unlikely to drop until at least June 2022. This is because, by splitting the calendar year into seasons, it is clear that the UK housing market follows a predictable cycle. The average house price in autumn – September, October, November – over the past three years has sat at £240,000. Always a busy time of year, this goes a long way to explain why prices and demand are still so high today. As the year moves into winter – December, January, February – the average house price climbs even further. Over the past 36 months, the average house price in winter has been £243,998. Moving into Spring – March, April, May – prices rise again to an average of £245,000. It is only with the arrival of summer that prices start to decline. Over the past three years, the average house price in the summer season has sat at £237,980, the lowest price for the whole year. So the data suggests that having already seen a summer of hot house price growth, we should now see property values continue on their upward trend until summer 2022, at the very least. CEO of Keller Williams UK, Ben Taylor, commented: “The stamp duty holiday has spurred an incredible run of upward house price growth and despite many predicting a market slump, we’re yet to see any let up. Season trends suggest this could be the case for the rest of this year and much of next as the market tends to perform at its best during the autumn, winter and spring seasons. “For buyers, this is difficult news to stomach, especially those who are hoping to move sooner rather than later. But it will no doubt be welcomed by sellers who should continue to secure a very good price when entering the market.” Table shows seasonal average house prices and transactions from the past 36 months (June 2018 – May 2021) Season Average transactions Average (median) price Summer 232,302 £237,980 Autumn 246,694 £240,000 Winter 217,232 £243,998 Spring 160,287 £245,000 Source HMLR – Price Paid
PROPERTY, construction and infrastructure consultancy Perfect Circle has been appointed by Powys Teaching Health Board (PTHB) to provide project management, cost management and CDM advice services on a once-in-a-generation transformation of the former Machynlleth Union Workhouse – currently operating as Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital. Based in the heart of Machynlleth, a popular market town at the head of the Dyfi estuary in mid-Wales, the redevelopment of the Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital will ensure residents have access to leading healthcare facilities in the heart of their community. In addition to improving primary care facilities, the project will provide space for local authority and third sector teams to work collaboratively, encouraging efficiency and quality of care. The £15 million project will see contractor Willmott Dixon deliver an integrated health and wellbeing centre in collaboration with Perfect Circle via SCAPE Consultancy, a direct award framework that drives collaboration, efficiency, time and cost savings. Victoria Brambini, managing director of Perfect Circle, said: “We are delighted to be overseeing the regeneration of the Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital, with all of its wonderful heritage. Originally built in 1860, it has since served several purposes, including a WWII Red Cross auxiliary hospital and the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital. Much of our work will involve breathing new life into the historic building, restoring it as an important asset to the local community.” Appointed due to its extensive healthcare credentials, Perfect Circle will be working in partnership with Willmott Dixon, the local community and stakeholders to ensure engagement throughout. By modernising the hospital and centralising the GP practice, local people will benefit from a comprehensive, cross-service approach to their health and wellbeing needs. Mike Petersen, principal regional lead for Wales at Perfect Circle, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to not only create a modern facility but overhaul the way in which the community accesses healthcare. Perfect Circle is delighted to be leading the project and rejuvenating a building of such significance both in the past and for the future.” Construction commenced in May 2021, with contractor Willmott Dixon taking the lead on the ground via the SCAPE Construction framework. Works are expected to complete by the end of 2022. Ian Jones, director at Willmott Dixon, said: “We are proud to be working alongside Perfect Circle via the SCAPE framework to deliver this integrated health and wellbeing facility for the Powys Teaching Health Board. The project builds upon our proud history of delivering first-class healthcare projects in Wales and will create vital facilities for the people of Machynlleth and the surrounding areas.” The SCAPE Consultancy framework offers direct access to the most extensive property, construction and infrastructure consultancy services available to the public sector. The fully OJEU-compliant procurement route brings together the strongest collaborative team with value for money, while contributing substantially to local social value. Mark Robinson, group chief executive of SCAPE, said: “Modern, best-in-class healthcare facilities are the foundation to ensuring thriving, healthy communities in Wales. SCAPE is proud to help accelerate this important project, which will see a much-needed update to Bro Ddyfi Community Hospital that also respects the significant heritage of Machynlleth Union Workhouse. “Perfect Circle, Willmott Dixon and Powys Teaching Health Board are regenerating a historically significant building into a future-proofed facility that will deliver a lasting benefit to residents for years to come.” For more information on Perfect Circle, please visit www.perfectcircle.co.uk.