Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos is building a massive clock inside a mountain in West Texas, but he’s unlikely to be caught wearing one of the world’s more popular luxury watches. Back in 2018, Bezos tweeted that construction on a clock that will be able to tell time for
A Fence is an outdoor physical structure that helps provide an enclosure for an area. While it can be used for various purposes, one major purpose is to demarcate an area as a way of preventing encroachment. They can be constructed from posts and connected with wire, rails, netting, or
Scientific research into the development of new cancer treatments across the UK is vital, with accurate new medicines and therapies, such as immuno‐oncology, being introduced to help ensure an increase in survival rates among patients. In line with the developments, new cancer care centres are being opened to provide these
GHD, one of the world’s leading professional services companies, is pleased to announce that it has been appointed by Transport for London (TfL) as its Traffic Engineering Support Partner to support the delivery of feasibility and concept design packages for projects within its Roads, Streets and Places department’s cycling portfolio. Notably,
Momentum Group launches ‘Rebound’ support service to help businesses as they face perfect storm of Brexit and Covid New statistics published by HRMC reveal that a total of £175 million was paid out to UK construction firms in research and development (R&D) Tax Credits, up a whopping 94 per cent
Achieving net zero carbon by 2050 requires innovative products and technologies. To identify key innovations in the built environment sector, Futurebuild has surveyed a range of specifiers to identify the game changing products that have shaped how they work. To inspire others in the industry, Futurebuild has highlighted 30 products
~ How companies can make the most of the Green Homes Grant ~ To achieve net zero targets by 2050 the government must invest up to £70 billion in the built environment each year — that is enough money to run three and a half Olympic games every year between now
Cambridge United are delighted to announce that the Mick George Group will become the Club’s longest serving shirt sponsor after extending their partnership with the U’s. The extension, which will run until 2023, will see the partnership reach the decade milestone. The local company, one of the area’s leading suppliers
GE Renewable Energy to supply 190 Haliade-X turbines for Dogger Bank A and B The project will be first in the world to feature the 13MW variant of GE Renewable Energy’s Haliade-X platform GE confirms marshaling harbor activities at Able Seaton in Hartlepool will create around 120 jobs and service
This September & October, a new collection of town centre apartments will come to the market at waterfront neighbourhood, The Brentford Project. Following its successful launch in September 2019, developer Ballymore has brought forward the latest opportunity to live in this exciting new quarter, in a new green phase for
Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos is building a massive clock inside a mountain in West Texas, but he’s unlikely to be caught wearing one of the world’s more popular luxury watches. Back in 2018, Bezos tweeted that construction on a clock that will be able to tell time for 10,000 years was underway. The billionaire has spent an estimated $42 million on his project but no amount of money in the world is going to buy him enough time to see his giant timepiece through to its final tick, as he’s well aware. When you have as much money as Bezos and you can’t imagine a time when income will slow, you’re probably going to want to do something memorable. The Texas clock will outlive Bezos, as well as an unthinkable number of his descendants – if all goes according to plan, it will stand the test of time. While he’s here, though, he isn’t flashing an expensive Rolex, although any number of wristwatches can be bought off Amazon. Bezos can actually afford to purchase his own watch – the Ulysse Nardin – 11 milliontimes as it costs just under £10,000. You don’t have to be a millionaire to be able to afford a £10,000 watch and, with Rolex and Patek Philippe models dominating the list of top 10 most expensive luxury watches – no other timepiece breaks into that list – you’d think a man of his wealth would go for one of them. As it turns out, Bezos isn’t unlike those he rubs shoulders with when it comes to watch choice. Microsoft founder Bill Gates wears a Casio Duro that costs just over £50 and can afford to buy 1.6 billion of the nifty devices. The late Steve Jobs also wore a very modest Seiko model and current Apple CEO Tim Cook typically goes for an Apple Hermes. Meanwhile, Barclays’ Jes Staley can buy his Panerai Luminor Marina 534,892 times over at a cost of £3,488.35 per unit. Tesla CEO Elon Musk is another such entrepreneur who isn’t a fan of the Rolex. Musk has often been seen wearing the limited edition Carrera Calibre 1887 SpaceX Chronograph produced by Tag Heuer and SpaceX eight years ago. Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg doesn’t even wear a watch, which is no surprise given his unlimited lineup of t-shirts and jeans. But when you’re that rich, time isn’t as big an issue for you as it is for most people, right? While Bezos isn’t particularly concerned with what goes on his wrist, he’s clearly time conscious enough to spend $42 million on a giant clock. The idea, though, came from computer scientist Danny Hillis, who thought up a 10,000-year clock way back in 1986. Of course, it is a pretty big project, but he can probably get away with some mistakes as no one’s going to be around long enough to give him any stick over it. The clock will be 500 feet in height and will be mechanically powered by day/night thermal cycles, according to Bezos, and is going to be synchronized at solar noon. It’s supposed to tick once a year and chime once every millennium. There’s no timeline as it pertains to the clock’s completion but people can sign up for a mailing list for an alert whenever construction is over. Bezos says he wants his mega-clock to serve as a reminder that the future is really going to be that far ahead. Whether he decides to try on some more luxurious watch brands is left to be seen, but for now, the magnate looks set to stick to his choice Ulysse Nardin.
A Fence is an outdoor physical structure that helps provide an enclosure for an area. While it can be used for various purposes, one major purpose is to demarcate an area as a way of preventing encroachment. They can be constructed from posts and connected with wire, rails, netting, or boards. There are different styles as well as types and they can be made with different materials too. The type and material that you choose will depend largely on what you want to achieve with it. Common styles include: Chain link Split rail Kentucky post and board Privacy fence Wood picket, etc. Common materials for making fences include Wood Aluminum PVC Wrought Iron Electric Bamboo You can read more about them here. Why You Should Install One Installing a fence on your property can have many benefits. Asides the aesthetics and curb appeal that it adds to the property, below are some other reasons you may want to do so. Privacy Most people who live on or own their property usually like privacy. Whatever you choose to do whether swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying time with family, you want to be sure that no one is watching you or trespassing. Installing a fence affords you the privacy you need in your home. Security This is perhaps the main reason a lot of people invest in fencing their property. No one wants an intruder encroaching on their property or home whether it is a criminal or any other wandering soul. You may also live in an area with close proximity to wildlife and do not want them coming into your yard. A good fence will help prevent all of these. Safety For families with kids and pets, fencing off your home is important as you do not want them wondering off your premises. It will keep them in the confines of your yard, preventing them from wandering off. For your pets such as dogs, it can help keep them from getting lost or contracting diseases from outside and bringing such back to your home. It can also help to prevent accidents, such as drowning, if you have a body of water in your backyard. Establishing Boundaries To avoid trespassing on your land either by accident or intentionally, rather than getting upset or worked up about it, you can put up a fence to mark your boundaries. You can establish the start as well as the end of your land and avoid any form of dispute. It also lets you know how much space you have so that you can work within the boundary of your space and not also encroach on other people’s land. Beautifying Your Home Usually, fences are built for utility purposes but that is not to say they cannot be beautiful. As soon as you decide to construct one, part of the groundwork is choosing a type and design that will complement your home. Asides other reasons for putting one up, you may simply put one up to add to your home’s appeal and value. What to Know Before Installation Despite your reasons for wanting to install a fence, depending on where you live, there might be things you need to put into consideration before doing. Though we will briefly look at some of these consideration factors below, you can check out more of them in this article: https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/outdoor/fences/before-you-build-a-fence/. Building Codes and Regulations In Cincinnati, there are regulations and codes for putting up a fence that you need to follow. You also must get approval or permit from the City Council and pay a fee for a Certificate of Compliance or Certificate of Appropriateness. There are also specifications and guidelines that must be followed. Get a Survey A survey of your land helps you know your property line and determine the appropriate place to put your fence. You may be able to get a copy from the Cincinnati Buildings and Inspections Department or may need a professional quantity surveyor to do one for you. This will save you any stress or headache arising from any disputes in the future. It is most likely you have neighbors on either sides of your property so you may also need to discuss with them about putting up your fence. This is not to get their approval but to clear up any boundaries issues or disputes that may occur. Installing Your Fence After you have done all due diligence and gotten the necessary permits and it is time to go on with your fence installation in Cincinnati, you need to decide how to go about it. There are many DIY guides available but if you want a good job, your best bet will be to engage experienced professionals who are local to Cincinnati to handle it for you. Much more than building it, they understand local laws and codes governing fence installations. They can also help you restore, repair, and revitalize old ones. Conclusion Installing a fence in Cincinnati offers you so many benefits which you should take advantage of. You must however remember to take the necessary precautions discussed above to ensure you get the best possible. If you must do it yourself, get all the help you can. If however you want the best outcome, you will be better off employing professionals to get the job done for you. This will serve you better in the long run.
Scientific research into the development of new cancer treatments across the UK is vital, with accurate new medicines and therapies, such as immuno‐oncology, being introduced to help ensure an increase in survival rates among patients. In line with the developments, new cancer care centres are being opened to provide these bespoke treatments for patients. Building Design Partnership (BDP), an international architecture firm, was appointed to design a new 11-storey cancer centre in the heart of Liverpool – the city’s first dedicated cancer hospital that comes as part of a £162 million investment in cancer centres in the region. With cleanliness, hygiene and inclusive design in mind, BDP turned to PPG Architectural Coatings to provide a Johnstone’s Trade paint specification for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool. Ensured durability The new cancer centre has been designed to complement the existing Clatterbridge centres in Wirral and Aintree. It incorporates state-of-the-art facilities for radiotherapy, chemotherapy, diagnostics and imaging, outpatients, daycase treatments, bone marrow transplant, a Teenage & Young Adult Unit, clinical therapies, and a wide range of cancer information and support services. The centre will care for a total population of around 2.4 million people from across Merseyside, Chester and further areas, as well as carry out clinical trials of new cancer treatments. In an environment where cleaning, sanitation and hygiene practices are of the highest importance, BDP needed to provide a coatings solution that could be thoroughly cleaned regularly, while retaining a high-quality finish and colour. On the recommendation of the project’s main contractor, Laing O’Rourke, BDP specified a range of Johnstone’s Trade paints including Acrylic Durable Matt. Acrylic Durable Matt is a premium emulsion, designed to provide a tough, durable finish. With a Class 1 Scrub Rating, it is ideal for high traffic areas that need regular cleaning – such as healthcare environments. The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre provides specialist chemotherapy and other drug therapies and services so, when it came to specifying paints, it was critical that BDP provided a durable solution with hygiene and quality in mind. As the building will be home to a high number of vulnerable patients and need to be extremely clean at all times, it was crucial that the paint chosen could withstand regular wear and be cleaned and scrubbed regularly, without compromising on quality or colour. For BDP, Acrylic Durable Matt was the perfect solution. Johnstone’s Trade Microbarr Anti Bacterial Acrylic Matt was also used in the Brachytherapy Suite, and HDR and Anaesthetic rooms. Formulated using Silver Ion technology, the coating is a suitable choice for healthcare settings like Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool as it to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and infections, while having a tough, easily washable finish. Aesthetically pleasing design Another consideration throughout the cancer centre was design and colour. BDP proposed a colour scheme that tied the building and departments together, starting with the referencing of one of The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre NHS Foundation Trust’s corporate colours at the main entrance levels. BDP wanted to create an environment that was inclusive for all patients, visitors and staff within the centre, taking into account dementia-friendly design while also matching the Trust’s colours – the output of their design needed to be the perfect balance. PPG helped them to do this with its colour-matching service. They worked in collaboration and consulted with dementia specialists to develop the colour scheme, to ensure the design took into account their needs as well as looking good. BDP used the bold Trust colours in the reception areas within the building, and worked with PPG to create tonal variations that were used throughout the corridors and rooms on each floor. Each floor had its own colour identity from the PPG Voice of Colour collection. A calming range of blues such as Mystic Iris and Ocean Skies were included within the inpatients ward, contrasting with bright, bold greens such as Be Spontaneous and Funky Frog in the reception area. Mike Lee, specification development manager at PPG, said: “We’ve worked with BDP on the design and development of Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool since they were first appointed and we’ve really seen the building come to life. The centre will be vital in providing care for cancer patients and research into new treatments, and its design has been centred around ensuring patients and staff have a clean, comfortable and visually appealing environment. The finished interior looks great and our Johnstone’s Trade products will ensure the building is protected for many years to come.” For more information about Johnstone’s Trade, visit: www.johnstonestrade.com.
GHD, one of the world’s leading professional services companies, is pleased to announce that it has been appointed by Transport for London (TfL) as its Traffic Engineering Support Partner to support the delivery of feasibility and concept design packages for projects within its Roads, Streets and Places department’s cycling portfolio. Notably, GHD will help develop the feasibility design for Cycle Future Route 15 (CFR 15), which will link Streatham to Oval and is one of 25 routes identified by TfL as having the highest potential demand for cycling in London. CFR 15 is part of TfL’s Healthy Streets Approach, a system of policies and strategies to deliver a healthier, more inclusive city where people choose to walk, cycle and use public transport, in line with the Mayor’s Transport Strategy. Work has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic as part of TfL’s new Streetspace for London programme, which aims to create more space for people to safely walk or cycle as London emerges from the coronavirus lockdown, in order to avoid a car-based recovery. Following a competitive tender process, GHD was appointed to TfL’s four-year Traffic Engineering Support Partner Framework on account of its specialist sector experience, which includes developing financially viable multi-modal road design solutions, road and traffic safety, and traffic modelling. As TfL’s exclusive Traffic Engineering Support Partner, GHD has mobilised quickly on the project and will provide dedicated resource over the next four years. The GHD team has been assembled from across the company’s global network and is centered around TfL’s specific requirements. A combined TfL and GHD team have recently worked on designs for the A23 Streatham Hill Healthy Streets scheme, where the primary objective is to bring about a ‘step change’ in the street design and public realm quality. This is mainly being achieved by enabling informal pedestrian crossings to help improve accessibility, while also providing cycling infrastructure and addressing vehicles’ speed. Working in collaboration with Lambeth Council, TfL and GHD prepared multiple preliminary and feasibility designs to achieve this along a 1km stretch of the A23 Streatham Hill. Special considerations were given to mitigating the impact of the scheme on bus journey times and ensuring that the design of the crossings was inclusive for mobility and visually impaired users. The TfL and GHD team will now develop CFR 15 feasibility designs between Oval Station and Pendennis Road in Streatham over the next six months to April 2021. The team will also design temporary cycle lanes that will be instated along the entire length of CFR 15 to encourage more walking and cycling in the current COVID-19 environment. GHD has a long and successful track record of working with TfL, having previously been awarded contracts under its Transport Planning & Impact Monitoring, Engineering, and Project Management Frameworks. Craig Adams, TfL Client Account Director and Traffic Engineering Team Leader at GHD, said: “We are delighted to be supporting TfL’s design team once again, as work on Cycle Future Route 15 kicks off at an accelerated pace on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. This route will be an important addition to London’s cycling infrastructure, which is playing a more vital role than ever before on account of social distancing requirements on the public transport network. It has never been more important to get Londoners out walking and cycling, and the Healthy Streets Approach is key to making this happen by improving the experience of being on London’s streets. We look forward to supporting TfL once again as it works to make the capital’s streets safer and more pleasant, with reduced pollution and enhanced accessibility, for the benefit of the wider London community.” With regards to the A23 Streatham Hill Healthy Streets scheme designs, Kieran Hutley, TfL’s Principal Sponsor, Lambeth – Network Sponsorship – Investment Delivery Planning, said: “Will Norman, the Mayor of London’s Walking & Cycling Commissioner, was very impressed that the combined TfL and GHD team had managed to reduce the bus journey time delays, as well as design a scheme with segregated cycle facilities and straight-across pedestrian crossings, achieving the TfL Healthy Streets objectives.”
Momentum Group launches ‘Rebound’ support service to help businesses as they face perfect storm of Brexit and Covid New statistics published by HRMC reveal that a total of £175 million was paid out to UK construction firms in research and development (R&D) Tax Credits, up a whopping 94 per cent from £90 million according to statistics released this time last year. The number of claims has also jumped from 1,790 to 3,055, an increase of 71 per cent, but still only represents 6% of all claims across the scheme. The figures were released as R&D Tax Credit specialists, The Momentum Group launched its ‘Rebound’ support service which aims to assist businesses by maximising their uptake of all available grants and R&D tax benefits offered by the UK government. Commenting on the latest statistics, Tom Verner, MD of The Momentum Group said; “These new figures for the construction industry are very welcome and reflect increased innovation specifically in areas such as the reduction of firms’ carbon footprint. “However, the industry still only represents 6% of claims across the scheme and we believe there are still a great many innovative construction companies missing out on potentially tens of thousands of pounds in R&D Tax Credits. The ‘Manufacturing’, ‘Professional, Scientific and Technical’, and ‘Information and Communication’ sectors continued to have the greatest volume of claims, making up a total of 66% and 71% of the total monetary amount claimed for 2018-19.” Mr Verner added; “The launch of our Rebound support service comes in response to the dual challenge for businesses operating under the looming threat of a no-trade deal Brexit and an ongoing global pandemic. We are all in this together and at Momentum we have been offering, and will continue to offer, free claims advice to companies during these pressured times. “We believe in the ‘bouncebackability’ of businesses across the UK. That word was first coined by Crystal Palace manager, Iain Dowie when describing how his team went from the fringes of relegation to being promoted and I am confident Momentum can help businesses look to a brighter future after the unparalleled difficulties of 2020.” To further underline the commitment to research and development support, at the last budget Chancellor, Rishi Sunak pledged to increase spending on overall R&D to £22billion per year by 2024-25. Mr Verner said; “Between the £38billion spent by the Government on Bounce Back loans for businesses affected by the Covid pandemic, and the potential tax relief that can be claimed in R&D, there is so much support for businesses out there but awareness and understanding of the latter remains stubbornly poor.” “But often in uncertain times, businesses are driven to be more innovative and this work can qualify for R&D Tax Credits. 2020 has been an incredibly difficult year for business with Covid-19 generating great uncertainty and it is likely the monetary value of claims will be lower in the next period due to issues such as staff being on furlough. However, in our view, it is vital that companies thoroughly examine their R&D activities now to ensure all opportunities for support are explored.” “For example, a number of companies joined the fight against Covid-19 by switching production to make medical items, PPE and hand sanitiser. This work will have required a degree of R&D and it is right these companies receive the financial support they are entitled to. “In addition, the government has committed to processing claims within 28 days, meaning successful claims could have an immediate positive impact on balance sheets at a time when cash flow is critical. “Momentum can help, we recognise that businesses will know their own sectors inside out but often struggle when it comes to understanding what qualifies for R&D Tax Credit claims. “Our Rebound support service aims to work directly with companies to conduct strategic reviews of their business before putting strategies in place to identify wide-ranging R&D and innovation opportunities.” To learn more about R&D Tax Credits available to companies and to calculate how much you could receive visit: https://www.momentumgroupni.com/
Achieving net zero carbon by 2050 requires innovative products and technologies. To identify key innovations in the built environment sector, Futurebuild has surveyed a range of specifiers to identify the game changing products that have shaped how they work. To inspire others in the industry, Futurebuild has highlighted 30 products that have changed the face of the built environment and identified some future game changers. The results can be found at www.futurebuild.co.uk/game-changers. From January 2020, the built environment industry had just 60 months to transform to meet net zero targets. As a result, the entire industry, from architects, to specifiers and contractors, is searching for the products, processes and technologies needed to deliver sustainable, high quality and long-lasting infrastructure. To help built environment professionals learn from each other’s successes, Futurebuild interviewed eleven specifiers across the industry to discover the game changing products that influenced their work. Industry experts include Jane Wernick, consultant structural engineer at EngineersHRW, Bill Dunster OBE, architect and founder of ZEDfactory and Duncan Baker-Brown, co-founder of BBM Sustainable Design. The experts identified a variety of innovative materials and technologies that they regularly use — from thermal energy modelling to CO2 absorbing paint. “We know that many of the innovative products we need to reach net zero carbon targets already exist,” explained Martin Hurn, event director of Futurebuild. “We need to work together, share knowledge and ideas and collaborate to make sure we can use current innovations to their full potential.” As well as identifying products that have influenced their work, these specifiers also identified the game changing products that they would like to see developed to meet any current challenges they face. For example, zero-carbon concrete, plasterboard alternatives or green roll-out roofs. “As humans, we spend nearly all our time indoors,” explains Chaline Church, interiors architect and founder of Freespace Design. “In the near future, I’d like to see a range of circular products be brought to market to create healthy interiors. For example, healthy bonding agents could replace bad glues and resins in furniture to reduce toxicity, which could boost our comfort and immune systems.” Product pioneers should showcase their innovations at Futurebuild 2021. The event will bring together a receptive audience of specifiers and key decision makers looking for products to help them drive change across the built environment. 75 per cent of Futurebuild visitors come to the event to see the latest innovations! Read more about the game changing products influencing specifiers and tell us about your game changer by visiting www.futurebuild.co.uk/game-changers.
~ How companies can make the most of the Green Homes Grant ~ To achieve net zero targets by 2050 the government must invest up to £70 billion in the built environment each year — that is enough money to run three and a half Olympic games every year between now and 2050. The Green Homes Grant is one of the Government funding initiatives to reduce emissions by encouraging homeowners to invest in energy efficiency while creating new jobs in the sector. Here, Martin Hurn, event director at net zero pioneer Futurebuild, speaks to Ian Rippin, CEO of Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) Certification and David Pierpoint, founder of The Retrofit Academy and Osmosis Consult to understand how to use Government funding effectively and ensure lasting change in the retrofitting industry. Retrofitting and renovating existing homes is one of the best ways to tackle fuel poverty, reduce energy waste and put the UK back on track to meet its 2050 target. Existing buildings currently account for 34 per cent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. That is why the Chancellor announced a £3.05 billion retrofitting investment, as part of the Green Homes Grant. Hopefully, in autumn, further funding will be announced during the Conservative’s comprehensive spending review. Consumers investing correctly £1.5 billion of the Green Homes Grant funding is allocated to homeowners themselves. Anyone that wants to upgrade their home to improve energy efficiency can apply for vouchers of up to £10,000 per household. While this funding can significantly reduce the upfront installation cost, consumers should seek expertise from retrofit experts to ensure they use the money to make the most valuable changes, both in terms of energy saving and sustainability. Engaging with consumers about sustainable solutions will also enable long-term investment and growth of sustainable industries. “UK households could save £7.5 billion a year on energy bills, money that could be reinvested into the recovering economy and announce a new age of low carbon retrofit, lasting 30 years,” stated Pierpoint. “To achieve net zero, consumers must be educated about energy efficiency and what will make the largest difference. After the Grant, the industry should work with the Government to further invest in consumer education to increase awareness about energy efficiency and the positive impact it can have on people’s lives.” Companies using funding effectively The Government’s investment in the environmental sector gives firms an opportunity to invest in technologies and people to improve productivity and profits. However, with the grant scheme only expected to last six months, companies should consider how they can maintain this growth. “Companies can provide high quality work by investing in staff training and achieving MCS certification,” explained Rippin. “We know that consumers are proactively looking for an installer that is certified and holds a quality mark because they can trust their quality of work and commitment to consumer care. Additionally, to receive grant money from the Government, homeowners must use an MCS certified contractor to install their renewable system.” Moving forwards The Green Homes Grant will create thousands of jobs, encourage economic growth in the construction industry and help homeowners to reduce energy usage in an affordable way. While these are all positive changes, we also need to look at how Government and industry can work together to continue making significant improvements in sustainability. “The Government needs to invest in renewable energy apprenticeships and the wider industry to attract more people into careers,” stated Rippin. “Investing in future generations will ensure high-quality tradespeople enter the retrofitting and renewable energy industries and maintain quality standards.” The Green Homes Grant will help us get closer to our goal of net zero by 2050, but it is only a small portion of the £70 billion we need. If the industry uses this grant to invest in attracting more people to work in retrofitting, gaining certification and educating consumers about energy efficiency, we can encourage the Government to provide further, long-term support to become a net zero nation. If you want to see innovative retrofitting processes in person, or showcase a technology you’ve developed, register your interest in Futurebuild 2021 on our website https://www.futurebuild.co.uk.
Cambridge United are delighted to announce that the Mick George Group will become the Club’s longest serving shirt sponsor after extending their partnership with the U’s. The extension, which will run until 2023, will see the partnership reach the decade milestone. The local company, one of the area’s leading suppliers to the construction industry, initially became the U’s main shirt sponsor prior to the 2013/14 campaign – the season the club reclaimed its place in the Football League and won the FA Trophy at Wembley. The agreement will see the Mick George Group logo printed on all home and away replica shirts as well as those worn in competitive action by the club at all levels. This includes the first team and all youth academy teams. Since their first involvement, the company have shown tremendous support and backing for the Club with a number of significant projects, events, and fan engagement initiatives – all of which are continuing despite the current challenging circumstances. During the partnership to date, the club has experienced a number of memorable moments which will go down in U’s folklore. The aforementioned 2014 season will be remembered as one of the best in the Club’s history with two Wembley appearances which heralded an FA Trophy victory and promotion back to the Football League. More recently, other standout occasions include the famous draw against Manchester United FC in the 2015 FA Cup. Through continuous offerings of hospitality, discounts, giveaways, competitions and fun entertainment, not least Mick the Skip mascot and the Half-Time Skip Challenge, The Mick George Group have played a pivotal role in embracing the wider ‘supporter activation programmes’ that the club participates in. Head of Commercial at Cambridge United FC, Nick Fairbairn said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Mick George Group have extended their sponsorship. We have built a fantastic relationship with them over the last seven years – the renewal of the partnership is all the more special given that they are genuine supporters and advocates of the club. The current climate is tough for everybody, so to have the extended support of a key partner such as the Mick George Group is huge for us at Cambridge United. It underlines the fact that this goes further than simply a commercial deal, but is built on shared values and a real solidarity between our two organisations. We thank Jon and his team for their fantastic support, particularly at such an uncertain and challenging time.” Jon Stump, Joint CEO at the Mick George Group commented: “We have built a genuine and valued affinity with both the club and supporters since we became the front of shirt sponsor in 2013 and consider that we are seen as much a partner and fellow fan as opposed to just a corporate sponsor.” “Through our association with the club, which dates back well before the shirt sponsorship commenced, we have regularly invested in the club in different capacities and recognise the importance in doing so at the present time, to help provide the Club and fans with some much-needed stability in the present climate.” “The Club is a critical hub for community activation, representing the togetherness that exists in the City. That ethos is something that aligns with our business philosophies and has been a key factor in our decision to renew despite economic uncertainty.” “The Club should be applauded for the way it has conducted itself in the current circumstances.” “We are proud to be the club’s front of shirt sponsor and hope that by signing a three-year extension to the current deal, reflects the fantastic relationship that has been built between the Mick George Group, Cambridge United FC and its supporters. More importantly, we want to do what we can to help the club fulfil its full potential and experience many more memorable occasions in the future.’’
GE Renewable Energy to supply 190 Haliade-X turbines for Dogger Bank A and B The project will be first in the world to feature the 13MW variant of GE Renewable Energy’s Haliade-X platform GE confirms marshaling harbor activities at Able Seaton in Hartlepool will create around 120 jobs and service activities from the Port of Tyne will create around 120 jobs GE Renewable Energy announced today that it has finalized supply contracts (subject to final notification to proceed) with Dogger Bank Wind Farm (a 50:50 joint venture between SSERenewables and Equinor) for the first two phases of what will become the world’s largest offshore wind farm.These first two phases (Dogger Bank A & B) will each feature 95 Haliade-X 13MW wind turbines. The agreements will include a total of 190 units of the 13MW Haliade-X wind turbine, and a five-year Service & Warranty agreement to provide operational support for the wind turbines. GE’s Service team will be co-located with the Dogger Bank Operational and Maintenance team, based out of the Port of Tyne. The Haliade-X 13MW is an enhanced version of the successful 12MW unit which has been operating in Rotterdam since November 2019 and which recently secured its provisional type certificate§ from DNV-GL. The uprated13MW Haliade-X will also feature 107-meter long blades and 220-meter rotor. One spin of the Haliade-X 13MWcan generate enough electricity to power a UK household for more than two days. John Lavelle, President & CEO, Offshore Wind at GE Renewable Energy, said, “We are delighted to take the next step in developing the most advanced proven technology in the market. At GE, innovation is in our DNA, and that is why we continue to innovate, enhance and develop the Haliade-X platform to meet market demands to deliver offshore wind as a competitive and affordable source of renewable energy. In signing these agreements with Dogger Bank, our Haliade-X technology will now have an important role to play in the UK’s offshore wind ambitions (40GW by 2030) and greenhouse emission reduction to “net-zero” by 2050.” Energy Minister Kwasi Kwarteng said: “I am thrilled to see so many green jobs on the way to the North East of England thanks to our world-leading offshore wind industry. Projects like Dogger Bank are absolutely crucial to building back greener from the coronavirus pandemic – creating jobs, growing the economy and tackling climate change. I look forward to watching its progress in the months and years ahead.” Peter Stephenson, ABLE UK’s Executive Chairman, commented: “We have enjoyed a long and constructive relationship with GE Renewable Energy culminating in today’s announcement – it’s a massive vote of confidence for the company and the UK. Our sustained investment at Able Seaton Port means we can provide a bespoke and tailor-made solution for Dogger Bank. “We are delighted that 120 skilled jobs will be based here at the Port, in this exciting and growing industry. The offshore wind sector will increase four-fold by 2030 through the Sector Deal, and with the increasingly demanding targets for low carbon power generation, there is an unparalleled level of market visibility. Combine this with the sectors’ extraordinary efforts in terms of developing new products and significantly reducing costs, this industry is set to become a dominant factor in a post Covid 19 UK economy.” Steve Wilson, Dogger Bank’s Project Director at SSE Renewables said: “Signing the contract with GE Renewable Energy is not just great news for Dogger Bank and GE, but for the wider offshore wind industry, marking the first time a 13MW turbine will be installed in the world. “In addition to this, today’s announcement will bring huge economic benefits to the North East of England, where120 skilled jobs will be created during construction of the wind farm, along with 120 skilled jobs during the maintenance phase. “These turbines are a true testament of how hard the offshore wind industry is working to continually innovate and drive down costs and we look forward to working with GE Renewable Energy to help us deliver the largest offshore wind farm in the world.” Halfdan Brustad, vice president for Dogger Bank at Equinor, said: “We want Dogger Bank to be a flagship project that leads the way in both digitalisation and innovative technology, so it is a great honor to confirm that this project will be the first in the world to use these powerful turbines. “The sheer scale of Dogger Bank brings huge opportunities to the UK. As well as being home to the world’s largest offshore wind farm, the North East will benefit from hundreds of jobs and local supply chain opportunities. We look forward to working with our partners and suppliers to build up a skilled team in the area, to operate and maintain these turbines for the lifetime of the wind farm from our new base, which will be constructed at the Port of Tyne.” The Service & Warranty agreements for the first two phases of Dogger Bank Wind Farm will account for around 120of the Operational and Maintenance jobs that will be based from the Port of Tyne. In addition, GE RenewableEnergy has also confirmed that it will establish its marshalling construction team activities at Able Seaton Port in Hartlepool. This port will serve as the hub for all equipment marshalling, installation and commissioning activities, resulting in the creation of an estimated 120 jobs during the construction period. Recruitment activities are likely to begin early next year. The contracts with Dogger Bank Wind Farm are subject to a Notice to Proceed from project joint venture partners SSE Renewables and Equinor. Financial close on Dogger Bank A and Dogger Bank B is expected in late 2020. The Dogger Bank Wind Farm is located over 130 km off the north-east coast of England and will be capable of powering up to 4.5 million homes each year when complete in 2026. Due to its size and scale, the site is being built in three consecutive phases; Dogger Bank A, Dogger Bank B and Dogger Bank C.
This September & October, a new collection of town centre apartments will come to the market at waterfront neighbourhood, The Brentford Project. Following its successful launch in September 2019, developer Ballymore has brought forward the latest opportunity to live in this exciting new quarter, in a new green phase for the development. Perfectly positioned on the doorstep of west London’s famed parks and green spaces, this new collection of two-bedroom apartments at The Brentford Project benefit from river views across to Syon Park and beyond. A focal point for the development, the newly-released apartments will also overlook the beautiful gardens of the deconsecrated Grade II* Listed St Lawrence’s Church on site, which is set to be reimagined with tranquil landscaping for residents and locals. Uniquely located at the meeting point of the River Thames and River Brent, The Brentford Project will see the transformation of 11.8 acres in the very heart of the town. Alongside delivering 876 new homes, the major regeneration scheme will revitalise the southern half of the town’s high street and reconnect it with the waterfront, establishing a thriving mix of dining, entertainment and shopping amenities and public spaces. Homes surrounded by greenery The first apartments to come forward within the new building, which will also act as the home for the residents’ club and concierge service, residents are perfectly placed to take advantage of the impressive lifestyle and wellness facilities on their doorstep. Contemporary open-plan apartment layouts and floor to ceiling glazing – alongside the cantilevered terraces many homes enjoy – are thoughtfully designed to maximise the far-reaching views, which take in the neighbouring St Lawrence’s Gardens, the water and the greenery of west London. Reflecting Brentford’s green, leafy surroundings, residents and visitors will be welcomed into an ‘Arrival Garden’. Inside, a tranquil retreat that has thoughtful landscaping and covered walkways and porticos, alongside a residents’ outdoor pool and woodland play space surrounded by mature trees. This charming pocket of The Brentford Project will also house ‘The Wick’, a unique wellness offering for residents, including a state-of-the-art gym, spa and treatment rooms overlooking the gardens. Meanwhile, St Lawrence’s Church itself – a truly historic piece of Brentford’s past with aspects of the building dating back to the 15th century, designed by architect Thomas Hardwick – will become a culinary and cultural hub for the community, and play host to pop-ups, events and shows. Internationally renowned practice, McCullough Mulvin Architects, has overseen the architectural design of the development’s new residential building and the revitalisation of St Lawrence’s Church – adopting a thoughtful approach to integrating this heritage gem into the wider vision for the new neighbourhood. Revitalising a historic neighbourhood Alongside an invigorated stretch of the high street – which will be home to all the amenities desired for modern life – a series of distinctive pedestrianised lanes and yards will reconnect the high street with the waterfront. Creating a new foodie destination, Workhouse Dock, an existing but neglected mooring on the River Brent, will be rejuvenated with 24 hour moorings, and lined with restaurants, pubs and cafés, with new public realm including tiered seating terraces – a space to relax, spend time and enjoy life on the water. Complementing Workhouse Dock’s romantic connection to the river is the adjacent Waterfront Square, which extends the communal experience of life at The Brentford Project. A dedicated space for outdoor markets, performance and public events, Waterfront Square will add to Brentford’s strong community feel. Providing another unique perspective across the water, a series of raised podium gardens will be interspersed throughout Workhouse Dock. An address with world-class connections Despite its leafy position surrounded by the prized neighbourhoods of Chiswick, Richmond and Kew, Brentford itself is a powerhouse of business and creativity. The development is walking distance from the Great West Road, otherwise known as the ‘Golden Mile’, home to the UK headquarters of global titans including Sega Europe, Dell EMC, Sky Studios, GlaxoSmithKline and JCDecaux Group. To the east, Chiswick Park hosts a suite of global, European and national corporations including Paramount, Sony and Starbucks. Creating a business community of its own, The Brentford Project already hosts classic car entrepreneur, Duke of London, and on-site bakery and restaurant, Rye by the Water with the future retail vision to include over 50 new shops, boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues in order to create a new riverside destination in west London. An important commuter corridor into central London, trains from Brentford to London Waterloo just taking 24 minutes, while nearby Boston Manor Underground station takes locals to Leicester Square within 32 minutes via the Piccadilly line. Heathrow Airport is also a mere 15-minute drive away by car for unrivalled international connections. Jenny Steen, Sales Director at Ballymore, comments: “One year on from the launch of The Brentford Project, this new release of homes offers a fresh opportunity to become part of the thriving community and exciting destination that is in the making here in west London. “The Brentford Project offers residents a rare lifestyle not often found in London. Not only are there some of the capital’s most beautiful parks nearby, but the extensive landscaping, public spaces and impressive variety of amenities throughout the neighbourhood will create a unique waterside destination. This new chapter of The Brentford Project provides the latest look at what is still to come in a constantly evolving neighbourhood – set amongst some of Brentford’s most historic surroundings.”