If substations are the delivery vehicles of the energy transmission network, then transformers are their engines, quietly humming away to ensure homes and businesses receive a constant supply of power. Given the cost to replace these vital assets, there is an ongoing maintenance requirement to ensure they remain in prime
Oxford-based property developer, GRE Assets has officially launched the sales of the first apartments at its exciting new riverside community at Nene Wharf, Peterborough. Offering high-end design and a prime location overlooking the River Nene, but at reasonable prices, the 128 one and two bedroom apartments will raise the standard
One of the South’s leading construction sector groups, The LGW Group, has recently acquired Mexboro Concrete based in Paignton, Devon. Trading for over forty years and specialising in the manufacture of pre-cast concrete, the recent acquisition of Mexboro takes the LGW Group’s combined annual turnover to over £25 million. The
A Midlands-based social landlord has appointed two new members to its senior leadership team. Platform Housing Group has welcomed Gary Bell as Transformation Director and Nathan Barson as Procurement Director. These latest appointments will further strengthen the Group’s management structure by adding to its existing diverse and robust experience. Gary has spent his entire career working in the
Crabtree is delighted to announce Crabtree’s Business Development Manager – Kieran Clarke Kieran has been in the property industry for over 8 years and is AIRPM qualified. During his career he has gained experience in block, estate, facilities, and AST management, as well as investment both in the UK and
BUILDING work has completed this month (February 2021) on the £46.5m School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham, thanks to national contractor, Willmott Dixon. The state-of-the-art 12,000 sqm facility spans five floors and features a double-height atrium. The development aims to not only bring together many of the institution’s engineering disciplines, but also
GLP, a leading investor and developer of logistics warehouses and distribution parks, today announces the acquisition of an 8-acre site in Crawley and plans to develop 159,000 SQ FT of mid-box warehouse space. The mid-box development will support GLP’s customers’ increasing requirements for last-mile logistics solutions, particularly in the South
Following a successful year and partnerships with companies such as HBXL, Trade Direct Insurance and BuildSafe Escrow Services – NABC – one of the UK’s fastest growing construction trade associations unveils its ambitious growth plans and recruitment drive for 2021, as it heads towards new milestone. James Hopkins, CEO, NABC, comments: “The
DERBYSHIRE roofing firm Permaroof has taken unprecedented steps to protect its workforce by investing £2,000 in coronavirus safety equipment. Permaroof has installed three Radikal Health systems – which purify and eliminate viruses and bacteria from the air – at its head office in Alfreton and will also carry out twice
SPORTS and leisure specialist GT3 Architects has been named as the architect for a new multi-million-pound leisure centre scheme for Hartlepool Borough Council. The Newcastle and Nottingham-based practice was selected to deliver the design for the new facility, which will be situated by the town’s marina and form a key
If substations are the delivery vehicles of the energy transmission network, then transformers are their engines, quietly humming away to ensure homes and businesses receive a constant supply of power. Given the cost to replace these vital assets, there is an ongoing maintenance requirement to ensure they remain in prime working condition. And so, as the population of transformers across the UK gets older with every year, so the risk of them failing increases. Alongside this, there is the constant risk of oil escaping as a result of a failure. With some estimates putting the average age of a distribution transformer as high as 63 years, it is understandable that facilities managers are continually exploring ways to limit their exposure to such a potentially dangerous scenario. Enabling environmental compliance MIDEL-type oil is non-toxic and fully biodegradable, meaning it is becoming increasingly sought after for its environmental benefits. At a time when industry is stepping up to tackle an increasingly urgent sustainability agenda, this is in contrast to the potentially harmful polluting impact that high-toxicity mineral oils can have if they escape into the watercourse. The combination of these reasons makes it easy to see why MIDEL-type ester oils have grown in popularity. It is important to note, however, that being a more environmentally sound option compared with mineral oil does not mean that the environmental risks are totally eradicated. It remains essential for any site using MIDEL to consider the wider ramifications – and particularly the cost implications – for managing this different kind of spill risk. When it comes to pollution-prevention methods for transformers, bunds are the primary option, ensuring compliance with the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001. Bunds can be a trap for rainwater, particularly in a climate such as the UK’s, where our already saturated winters are expected to become up to 30% wetter within the next 50 years. Safely managing the removal of this water while guaranteeing its separation from pollutants can be a costly task when carried out on a regular basis by third-party waste removal providers. A more efficient and cost-effective alternative is a bund water control unit (BWCU), which automates the dewatering process without the need for manual intervention. Rainwater, when it reaches a certain probe trigger level, is simply evacuated from the bund and into the surface water drainage system, with a guarantee that oil contaminants will not be at a level exceeding 1ppm. MIDEL compatibility Any transition to the use of ester oils, such as MIDEL 7131, should therefore be done in the knowledge that the BWCU will continue to deliver the highest pollution protection levels. At Darcy Group, we have received independent verification from a UKAS accredited testing house, that our BWCU is compatible with the use of MIDEL 7131, confirming a discharge of less than 5ppm of oil to water. As such, choosing a Darcy BWCU is a future-proof choice for those looking to use MIDEL. For our clients using MIDEL, having a compliant BWCU to manage the dewatering process not only removes ongoing waste removal costs, it also further enhances their environmental credentials beyond the choice to use ester fluids over mineral oils. As more sites consider making the transition to ester oils for their transformers, it is crucial that the bund and the dewatering process are a key element of the overall risk management plan. Only by doing this can you truly ensure that the end result is sustainable from both an economic and environmental perspective. For information on how our products and services, call us today on 01732 762338 or get in touch via the website www.thedarcygroup.co.uk/contact.
Oxford-based property developer, GRE Assets has officially launched the sales of the first apartments at its exciting new riverside community at Nene Wharf, Peterborough. Offering high-end design and a prime location overlooking the River Nene, but at reasonable prices, the 128 one and two bedroom apartments will raise the standard for Peterborough living. Against the backdrop of challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, this launch represents a positive step and joins the wider narrative of regeneration in the local area. With £600 million of planned development within walking distance of Nene Wharf Apartments, including Station Quarter and ARU Peterborough, Peterborough is cementing its position as England’s fastest growing city. Only a four minute walk from the historic city centre, Nene Wharf encompasses stylish, modern design, a landscaped public realm and retail units to create a thriving new community. The apartments not only offer high specification, contemporary interiors and desirable riverside views, but are also equipped for modern living. With outdoor space higher than ever on a home buyer’s agenda, every home at Nene Wharf has a private balcony or terrace, as well as access to landscaped podium gardens and private parking. Andrew Topping, Senior Operations Manager at GRE Assets, said: “We are delighted to launch the sales of the first apartments at Nene Wharf, as it is a project we are extremely proud and excited about. “When we first invested in Peterborough, we recognised what it had to offer in terms of connectivity and economic growth. It certainly hasn’t disappointed, we have seen with our own eyes the rate of development and regeneration, which is fantastic to see. “GRE Assets sees Nene Wharf as very much part of this story, creating a new riverside community in the heart of this historic yet rapidly growing city. We look forward to welcoming our first residents to the apartments very soon.”
One of the South’s leading construction sector groups, The LGW Group, has recently acquired Mexboro Concrete based in Paignton, Devon. Trading for over forty years and specialising in the manufacture of pre-cast concrete, the recent acquisition of Mexboro takes the LGW Group’s combined annual turnover to over £25 million. The addition of Mexboro complements the other LGW Group companies, namely Wright Minimix, Bristol & Bath Concrete, Prodeck-Fixing and Chris Brown Concrete Pumps – giving the Group an even stronger foothold in the South West of England and Wales. “Mexboro has a fantastic reputation in the industry as a company with well-established values and quality products so to bring them into the LGW Group was a fairly easy decision to make. They are the perfect fit for us” remarked Len Wright, MD of the LGW Group. The company will continue to trade under the Mexboro Concrete name in Paignton and the majority of their twenty plus workforce will be staying on with a handful of administrative functions moving to the LGW Group headquarters in Bristol. Mexboro MD Matthew Vallance will also remain with the business in a part-time capacity bringing his years of experience in the industry to the Group. The addition of two new apprentices, already being advertised for, and the potential for more recruitment into the business will grow the pre-cast concrete division of the Group. Further investment for the Group is forecasted with the potential addition of a new concrete plant to make this new area of the business more efficient, as well as giving them a more varied product offering by utilising the skills of the other Group companies. The LGW Group companies provide a one-stop shop for both commercial and domestic construction projects across Southern England and Wales with services ranging from the production and sale of ready-mix concrete and concrete blocks; concrete pumps for hire, including the UK’s largest M60 and M62 boom pumps; metal decking and now pre-cast concrete and architectural cast stone.
A Midlands-based social landlord has appointed two new members to its senior leadership team. Platform Housing Group has welcomed Gary Bell as Transformation Director and Nathan Barson as Procurement Director. These latest appointments will further strengthen the Group’s management structure by adding to its existing diverse and robust experience. Gary has spent his entire career working in the public sector, starting off in local government; he then progressed to working for three large IT companies in their consulting divisions as well as working for a national regulator. He has joined Platform Housing Group from A2Dominion Housing Group in London. This new role for the Group will focus on the transformation of services to achieve enhanced outcomes for customers and stakeholders. Gary said : “I’m delighted to join Platform Housing Group; the combination of my transformation skills with my housing experience, will, I hope, bring about positive and continuous change.” Elizabeth Froude, Chief Executive at Platform Housing Group said : “Gary’s transformation skills will help us bring greater alignment as we continue on our business change journey. This will maximise the impact and efficiency of our change programme, enabling us to deliver on our strategy of improving services for our customers, ensuring alignment of all areas of the business and delivering on our objective of building a truly modern housing association.” Nathan – who lives in Leicestershire – joined the Group from the Cabinet office where he supported the national programme on PPE to help the fight against Covid-19; previous to this, Nathan worked for some years for one of the UK’s leading construction and infrastructure companies, Kier Group. Nathan said : “I’m looking forward to continuing to raise the profile of procurement within the Group, with the aim to build a world class procurement function. Procurement, when done well, can be a real catalyst for change. We will move beyond simple cost reduction to adding real strategic value to the organisation. I’m delighted to be appointed to the newly created role of Procurement Director; the opportunity to apply my knowledge and experience into an organisation with such a fundamental social needs at its core is truly appealing.” Rosemary Farrar, Chief Finance Officer at Platform Housing Group, said: “Continuous development of our business critical areas is crucial to ensure we meet the needs of our customers, partners and stakeholders. Nathan’s appointment will help us to move successfully into the future and we would like to welcome him to the Group.” Platform Housing Group – which owns 46,000 homes in total – completed 1448 homes in 2019/20 (1,598 in 2018/19) at an investment of £258m (£228m in 2018/19). The Group also built more social rented homes – at a figure of 981 – during the past 2 years in England than any other provider, 523 in 2019/20, almost 33% of the total homes built. Platform Housing Group’s operating area is from Herefordshire in the West to the Lincolnshire coast in the East, and from the Derbyshire Dales in the North to the Cotswolds in the South.
Crabtree is delighted to announce Crabtree’s Business Development Manager – Kieran Clarke Kieran has been in the property industry for over 8 years and is AIRPM qualified. During his career he has gained experience in block, estate, facilities, and AST management, as well as investment both in the UK and overseas. Kieran started his career in property in 2013 as a property manager for Atlantis Estates. He was promoted to Regional Manager and then to Sales/Relationship Director looking after all current clients and obtaining new business and working with developers. In 2017 Kieran moved to Spain and co-started a property sales, lettings and property management company. Initially focussing on Spain, he then branched out to sales and developments in the USA and a development attached to a hotel in Costa Rica. He was also involved in hotel investment/sales in Morocco and Mauritius. Kieran moved back to the UK in 2019 and assisted in the setup of all company/HR/HSE and facilities management for a portfolio of pub/restaurants. In late 2020 he joined Leaders as Head of Property Management, looking after a team in Cambridge. With Kieran on board, and with his diverse range of experience we see future growth for the business within the London block management sector. Crabtree is an established Managing agent with over 35 years serving the property industry.
BUILDING work has completed this month (February 2021) on the £46.5m School of Engineering at the University of Birmingham, thanks to national contractor, Willmott Dixon. The state-of-the-art 12,000 sqm facility spans five floors and features a double-height atrium. The development aims to not only bring together many of the institution’s engineering disciplines, but also provide opportunities for successful collaboration between academia and the industry. Procured through the Constructing West Midlands framework, the School of Engineering puts industry at the heart of the University’s campus, alongside the £16.4M UK Rail Research and Innovation Network (UKRRIN) Centre of Excellence in Digital Systems. The facility’s design was curated specifically with agile and collaborative working between academics, researchers, students, and staff, in mind. The development offers open plan spaces and cellular facilities including a dedicated Student Support Hub, a new 179-capacity Design Centre, a 50-seat electronics and electrical focused projects space, 20 flexi-bays specifically allocated for staff and student interactions, three 50-seat seminar rooms and also features 160 drop-in study spaces throughout the building. The basement also houses a full-size set of railway points, the University’s pantograph test rig and a test track for the scaled hydrogen-powered train – further expanding the university’s commitment to the integration of academia and industry. Nick Gibb, deputy managing director for the Midlands at Willmott Dixon, said: “We are delighted to have completed such a significant development, both regionally and within the sector – the facility is set to pioneer advancements within engineering and digital systems research. “Despite completing the final stages of the project during the Covid-19 pandemic, our teams optimised industry-leading safety and social distancing measures, which meant we were able to remain on-site throughout the pandemic and ultimately deliver the project to the agreed timescales. This development is the fifth major partnership we have entered into with the University of Birmingham, having recently completed the Teaching and Learning Building, along with the Green Heart campus development. “One of our main aspirations for this development was to provide a highly energy-efficient building. Throughout the project we implemented a sustainability strategy to ensure the facility would be built and operated in an energy efficient way right from the outset, including the optimisation of Passivhaus design measures. These efforts, combined with the adoption of our industry-leading Energy Synergy™ process has enabled us to predict that 45% of the building’s energy consumption will come from unregulated sources, such IT equipment, lab equipment and external lighting. These sources are highly linked to occupant usage and can fluctuate throughout the building’s lifecycle. Designed by Associated Architects, the School of Engineering demonstrates the university’s commitment to providing first-class engineering education. The development aims to improve student experience, allowing engineering undergraduate and postgraduate students to get involved in cutting-edge research and ensuring students graduate with a strong connection to the industry. Head of the University of Birmingham’s School of Engineering, Professor Clive Roberts, said: “We are delighted to receive the keys to the newly built School of Engineering. We are committed to providing the best facilities for our staff, students and researchers, as well as enabling collaboration with our industry partners and encouraging different and more flexible ways of working. “We are passionate about educating the next generation of engineers. Alongside accessing features such as the Design Centre and our expanded computer labs, our new building provides students with the opportunity to work with engineers across the disciplines. Their learning will mirror the workplace, encouraging and developing their understanding of industry and their role within it. “The new building also sits alongside our new centre of excellence in railway innovation, the UK Railway Research Innovation Network (UKRRIN) Digital Systems Innovation Centre, placing industry at the heart of our campus. In the coming months, we are looking forward to opening its doors to welcome staff, students and industry partners.” Warren Jukes, director from Associated Architects, said, “This scheme has afforded us the opportunity to design a beacon of engineering excellence, to attract the world’s best academics and students to the University of Birmingham. The project was a major engineering feat in its own right, and we take immense pride in overcoming the challenges it brought. We feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work closely with the School of Engineering, University and Willmott Dixon to realise such an inspiring facility that will enable growth and achieve research excellence.” As part of Willmott Dixon’s commitment to leaving a legacy in the local community, throughout the development the contractor ran its Enrichment Programme in partnership with the University of Birmingham School for local pupils. The programme was created to broaden the students’ understanding of career opportunities whilst giving them a chance to develop their character virtues. The contractor also facilitated 157 student visits to the site, hosted 71 work experience weeks with local people and enabled 202 weeks of ‘on-site’ apprenticeship training.
GLP, a leading investor and developer of logistics warehouses and distribution parks, today announces the acquisition of an 8-acre site in Crawley and plans to develop 159,000 SQ FT of mid-box warehouse space. The mid-box development will support GLP’s customers’ increasing requirements for last-mile logistics solutions, particularly in the South East. The growth of the mid-box market in the UK reflects the increasing need for smaller warehousing with proximity to key urban centres. The development will span three units comprising 87,000 SQ FT, 46,000 SQ FT and 26,000 SQ FT. GLP will commence development of all three units in November 2021, once planning permission is received, with construction expected to complete in July 2022. The site is located on Manor Royal, the premier industrial and business district in the South East. It is strategically located 1.5 miles from Junction 10 of the M23 motorway, 2 miles from London Gatwick Airport, and 10 miles from the M25 motorway. The sites proximity to London and position in the South-East makes it ideal for a range of logistics uses, including last-mile logistics. Adrienne Howells, Development Director, GLP, said: “The growth of ecommerce has fundamentally altered and expanded our customers’ distribution requirements. This acquisition and development will allow us to offer a different type of space to both existing and potential customers. We will continue to selectively target acquisitions of prime mid-box opportunities to meet this growing demand in addition to our extensive development pipeline of over 1 million sq ft of space currently underway in the UK.”
Following a successful year and partnerships with companies such as HBXL, Trade Direct Insurance and BuildSafe Escrow Services – NABC – one of the UK’s fastest growing construction trade associations unveils its ambitious growth plans and recruitment drive for 2021, as it heads towards new milestone. James Hopkins, CEO, NABC, comments: “The demand for our service is increasing rapidly, especially post Brexit and the residential construction industry is under extreme pressure to reduce the number of rogue builders. “We have recently had a growing number of calls for us to help create a clear and transparent payment solution for both home owners and tradesmen across the UK, so we have launched our new BuildSafe platform for both consumers and contractors which ensures that the project is securely funded from start to finish. “The aim of the new platform is to ensure that the funds are held safely until the set-out completion of each stage. Payments to contractors or sub-contractors may be issued upon bench marks (draw basis) or in full (project basis). “BuildSafe will raise the level of trust and security for everyone involved in a construction project. Owners can be assured that payments will be held securely and properly disbursed, and contractors can be assured that their projects are funded and that they will be paid in a timely manner. “The BuildSafe agreement is designed to supplement a standard construction contract for the utmost in security with funds held by an FCA approved partner. “It’s almost a daily occurrence to hear of another bricks and mortar business entering administration or in trouble. Our new Buildsafe technology will give these bricks and mortar companies the safe technology they need to level the playing field and financially stay afloat. “Our ambition is to be the first trade association to roll out a construction industry-based escrow platform across the UK which will give us the ability to create a war for acquisitions to enable insane growth.” The plan to achieve this will see National Association of Building Contractors create 15 new jobs in 2021 in South Devon. Most of these positions will be technology and sales roles. James adds: “Over the last few years, we’ve learned a huge amount and we have grown from our experiences to get to a position where we really understand what our customers want and needs from us. “Part of the transition was bringing in an experienced leadership team with an operational leader and product officer to ensure we create the best possible working environment that we can be proud of.” BuildSafe’s new insights engine also aims help building contractors become better at what they do. This shift in mindset is creating an environment where people can learn, develop and progress using the latest technology and solve complex problems whilst augmenting a customer success platform. To find out more visit: https://www.nabc.org.uk/ For further information on opportunities at NABC, ambitious individuals are invited to send their CVs to laura@nabc.org.uk Media contact Sarah Watson Email: info@nabc.org.uk
DERBYSHIRE roofing firm Permaroof has taken unprecedented steps to protect its workforce by investing £2,000 in coronavirus safety equipment. Permaroof has installed three Radikal Health systems – which purify and eliminate viruses and bacteria from the air – at its head office in Alfreton and will also carry out twice weekly Covid lateral flow testing for its 17 office-based employees. The team includes both office and warehouse-based staff, ranging in roles from marketing and sales to warehouse operatives and delivery drivers. Adrian Buttress, managing director of Permaroof and the wider PermaGroup, said: “Throughout the entire pandemic, the safety and wellbeing of every single member of our team has been of paramount importance. “For those employees who are unable to work from home, we have implemented a strict set of Covid-19 measures, including restricting access to our headquarters to staff members only, regular temperature checks, and daily cleansing of all surfaces and door handles. “This month, we also installed one Radikal Health anti-viral air and surface sanitising machine in our main sales rooms, which covers our staff on reception and those in customer services, and another in the accounts office. The third captures all of the air in corridors and remaining side offices. “We want to eradicate as much risk as possible, which is why we have invested in the air purifying machines and regular testing, as well as placed a huge emphasis on creating a Covid-secure environment. “Not only are we committed to keeping our staff and their families safe, some of whom are very vulnerable to the virus, we also want to protect the business as, if a breakout occurred at our head office, we would have to temporarily close, which would cost the business six-figure sums.” In 2020, Permaroof celebrated its most successful year in its two-decade history after maximising the lockdown effect on the DIY market and quickly diversifying in the face of the pandemic. The firm added products to its portfolio, including a disinfectant spray to help customers work safely. At the same time, it worked closely with modular companies for the first time, which included supplying fast flat roofing solutions to four emergency NHS projects during the first month of lockdown. Simultaneously, the business recruited a new marketing co-ordinator to push out a formal communications strategy and partnered with a mindset and coaching programme for the sales team, which has helped them adapt and understand customers’ challenges and provide bespoke solutions. Adrian attributes the success of the past year to a fast response to Covid-19, investment in an already solid team and diversification into new services and products. He said: “We had to rewrite our business plans, raise funds for the unknown and rework all our numbers while adapting the business to ensure it was Covid-secure for the Permaroof team and its customers.” Permaroof offers products and services that provide “permanent solutions to age-old problems”. It offers this through a variety of products – its central offering of Firestone RubberCover EPDM roofing – as well as artificial grass through its PermaLawn brand and maintenance-free fencing via PermaFence. This is in addition to PermaTile promenade tiles, rooflights through The Skylight Company and, most recently, steel framed buildings. For more information on Permaroof UK, please visit www.permaroof.co.uk or call 01773 608839.
SPORTS and leisure specialist GT3 Architects has been named as the architect for a new multi-million-pound leisure centre scheme for Hartlepool Borough Council. The Newcastle and Nottingham-based practice was selected to deliver the design for the new facility, which will be situated by the town’s marina and form a key part of The Waterfront regeneration. The new site – which will replace the town’s existing Mill House Leisure Centre – is set to feature a range of facilities, including three swimming pools – a main, a learner and a recreation pool – a multi-station fitness suite, a flexible space for multi-activities and a refreshments area. As part of the project, GT3 Architects will be undertaking extensive stakeholder and public engagement exercises to help inform their plans and create a design that fully serves the local community. Simon Dunstan, director at GT3 Architects, said: “We’re delighted to be involved. As a local practice it’s great to see the amount of regeneration work and funding happening in the North East – and in Hartlepool particularly. “The Waterfront has been such an exciting project to be involved in over the last few years and we’re excited to take it to the next stage with the introduction of the new leisure centre. This ambitious project will create an exciting new leisure and community destination for the region and support the ongoing regeneration of the town. “We want the new leisure centre to go beyond the standard gym, studio classes and fitness facilities. Our ambition is to create a unique waterfront destination, designed for the people of Hartlepool, with a real focus on health, wellbeing, and inclusivity. The marina setting offers plenty of scope for outdoor fitness, as well as a spectacular backdrop to any indoor activities, so there are lots of opportunities for our design team to work with and be inspired by. “Our engagement work will start early this year, and we’re looking forward to speaking to the local community about their thoughts on the design and identity of the new leisure centre.” This latest project win is the latest of several similar schemes for the practice in the region, including The Sands in nearby Carlisle, and a £21 million leisure centre in Morpeth.” Councillor Shane Moore, the Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “The appointment of a company of the calibre of GT3 Architects to design the new leisure centre is fantastic news. “We look forward to working closely with them to create a state-of-the-art facility that meets the needs and aspirations of local people.” GT3 Architects will be working with Hartlepool Borough Council, Desco, BGP, Summers Inman, Design Fire Consultants and Apex Acoustics to deliver the project. The appointment of GT3 Architects follows national recognition for phase 1 of The Waterfront development, which was recently named as runner-up in the Pedestrian Environment category at the 2020 LocalGov Street Design Awards for the quality of the public walkways created on the site. For further information visit www.gt3architects.com or join the conversation over on Twitter @_GT3Architects