RJ McLeod took this month’s top spot after being appointed the main contractor for the £500 million Viking Wind Farm in the Shetland Isles, Scotland. This large development will consist of 150 wind turbines and work also includes the construction of substations, quarries and 62 miles of access road. The
A fifth-generation manufacturer and contractor of steel framed buildings has secured funding to digitise its operations, becoming one of the first in its industry to take up a suite of state-of-the-art technology. Wareing Buildings worked with Made Smarter to support its adoption of Tekla PowerFab, a suite of software which
Properly installed asphalt paving enhances curb appeal and reduces driveway maintenance since asphalt is one of the most durable paving materials available. Improper installation and maintenance can create problems down the line, though. Read on to find out about eight common asphalt paving mistakes and how to avoid them to
The University of St Andrews and Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc (MSIP) have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore future collaborations in the fields of sustainable mobility and low carbon energy. MSIP, a joint venture between Michelin, Dundee City Council and Scottish Enterprise, is a world-class Innovation Parc in Dundee
Property insurance specialist NFU Mutual is urging commercial property owners and their tenants not to neglect Fire Risk Assessments during the pandemic. The warning comes as NFU Mutual claims statistics reveal a 46% spike in the number of commercial property fires during lockdown. * Trevor Palmer, Property Insurance Specialist at
Decarbonising construction to produce more sustainable and better performing buildings will be crucial to creating a more viable ecological future. Andy Goodwin, Managing Director of sustainable specialist contractor, B&K Structures considers the pitfalls surrounding a green construction recovery. It can be done – lockdown provided evidence of just what can
Babcock’s Rosyth site is the first UK user of Meiko’s automated respirator washing technology, which provides Log 5 protection. “Along with being able to evidence compliance with regulations, we know that our people are supplied with fully maintained kit, to the highest levels of cleanliness,” says Colin Chrystal, Health, Safety
Following calls from architectural experts to save on carbon emissions by upgrading older buildings instead of knocking them down, building designers and specifiers should consider retrofitting solutions to improve overall sustainability. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) estimates that a sizeable proportion of a building’s lifecycle carbon is emitted
The construction industry is always looking for new ways to make the sector safer, easier and more efficient. From utilising modern AI to ensuring fast construction site broadband. Over recent decades, technology has evolved at a staggering rate, however, due to the strict requirements needed from construction to ensure safety,
Construction on a new 23,000 sq ft Mansfield-based Lidl store is on track to complete later this autumn, according to leading property and investment group Strawsons Property. Leeds-based contractor Castlehouse Construction has been appointed to the Leeming Lane development site which is prominently positioned on the main arterial route to
RJ McLeod took this month’s top spot after being appointed the main contractor for the £500 million Viking Wind Farm in the Shetland Isles, Scotland. This large development will consist of 150 wind turbines and work also includes the construction of substations, quarries and 62 miles of access road. The runners up spot this month is ISG with five awards totalling £221 million. The main contribution to this total will see them build another Amazon distribution centre in Dartford with completion expected to be in April 2022. The latest edition of the Top 50 League Tables published by industry analysts Barbour ABI, highlights the number and value of construction contracts awarded during July. This month shows that the combined value of contracts awarded to the Top 50 was just under £4 billion with a total of 165 projects.
A fifth-generation manufacturer and contractor of steel framed buildings has secured funding to digitise its operations, becoming one of the first in its industry to take up a suite of state-of-the-art technology. Wareing Buildings worked with Made Smarter to support its adoption of Tekla PowerFab, a suite of software which enables more efficient management of the steel fabrication environment, providing a flow of information throughout the project lifecycle. Lancashire-headquartered Wareing Buildings submitted its proposal via specialists, Westley Consulting Ltd, working with Rick Patterson to develop a comprehensive digital strategy which demonstrated how embracing digitisation would enable the manufacturing and construction business to achieve an almost 10 per cent productivity gain – equivalent to £3,774 per staff member versus existing productivity levels and a return on investment of more than 220%. The support marks the first phase in Wareing Buildings’ smart digitisation project, which forms part of a wider business investment and development programme to be completed in the next three years. It is predicted that investment into additional buildings, equipment and technology will total c.£1.8m once the programme is complete. The Tekla PowerFab suite from Trimble will enable Wareing Buildings to provide customers with real time information on the design, manufacture and dispatch of products via a single online system, which will eradicate the use of paper drawings. By introducing drone surveying and mapping systems, Wareing Buildings will significantly reduce the time spent on site during the initial planning stages of its projects, using digitally captured information which allows for greater precision in measurement and land analysis. Matt Hastwell, senior draughtsman at Wareing Buildings, said: “Though we already employ digital technology and BIM at the design stage of every project, the majority of our everyday activity – including the processing, tracking and delivery of steel fabrication jobs – has remained a largely manual process. This has created an inefficient environment which we have been keen to step away from for several years. “We knew that an information management system, through which all of our daily activity – including material ordering, fabrication schedules and deliveries – could be easily processed, managed and accessed would turn our outdated processes on their head. “Since implementing Tekla PowerFab, the benefits have been clear to see. We are projected to make significant savings in time and money as a result, and we will be reinvesting that freed up resource back into our client relationships, ensuring every single customer is receiving an improved, modern day service from Wareing. “This type of investment is unique for our industry and we are delighted to be ahead of the curve.” Rick Patterson from Westly Consulting said: “Its wonderful news to see investment going into a key Lancashire construction firm and enabling a major step forward with this new technology. Many other manufacturing firms could benefit from this exciting new fund and embrace digitisation within their company.” Wareing Buildings is a family business in Lancashire which designs, manufactures, installs and maintains steel framed buildings for commercial and agriculture sectors. To find out more, visit www.wareingbuildings.co.uk
Properly installed asphalt paving enhances curb appeal and reduces driveway maintenance since asphalt is one of the most durable paving materials available. Improper installation and maintenance can create problems down the line, though. Read on to find out about eight common asphalt paving mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure proper installation and maintenance. 1. Poor Planning Adequate planning is one of the most important aspects of driveway installation and maintenance. Make sure the weather conditions are right, collect all of the materials and equipment in advance, and plan to spend enough time on the project to give it the attention it needs. Homeowners who don’t have experience with laying asphalt should always hire reputable contractors to complete their driveway paving projects and can visit frasercon.com to find the help they need. 2. Using Poor Quality Asphalt There are many types of asphalt available, but they’re not all created equal. Homeowners who use poor-quality asphalt will, unsurprisingly, wind up with poor results. The solution is to spend the extra money on high-quality asphalt that will create a smooth, blemish-free surface and will hold up to wear and tear and inclement weather for years to come. 3. Ignoring Slope Control and Auto-Grade Systems Slope control and auto-grade systems are designed to reduce operator mistakes. They’re configured to ensure that the equipment works as intended given the environmental conditions. Make sure the operator is provided with high-quality equipment that features these systems and that he or she knows how to use it. 4. Changing Speeds Changing speeds while laying asphalt paving disrupts its uniformity. This can create a washboard effect and density issues in the final product. To avoid these problems, make sure the operator knows how to use speed limiters to ensure a clean, consistent application. 5. Failing to Control the Material Head Precise control of the material head is essential for proper asphalt installation. Allowing fluctuation will create waves and bumps, ruining the smooth surface. The easiest way to avoid this problem is to implement technological solutions like sensors and ensure the operators know how to use them. 6. Over-Turning the Depth Cranks Inexperienced operators have a habit of moving or adjusting the depth cranks too often. This can lead to bumps and waves in the finished driveway. Avoid the problem by ensuring that operators are provided with the right training. 7. Stopping the Compactor Incorrectly Stopping the compactor straight on leaves behind an indentation that’s hard to level out. Instead, operators need to stop at a 20% angle to make it easier to smooth out edges. Train the operators to do this every time to avoid unnecessary complications. 8. Improper Application of Sealer Asphalt driveways must be sealed to prevent degradation. Timing is critical when it comes to sealing a driveway since applying it too long after the asphalt has been laid or right before it rains can lead to early driveway replacement. Whether they’re sealing a newly laid driveway for the first time or reapplying sealant, homeowners should plan ahead and check the weather for the three days following the application to make sure it will be sunny. The Bottom Line Installing and maintaining asphalt pavement requires a good deal of training, experience, and finesse. The only way to get professional results is to hire a professional. Homeowners who insist on performing their own installations and maintenance can follow the advice above to avoid some of the most egregious mistakes, but no amount of tips and tricks will make up for a lack of experience.
The University of St Andrews and Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc (MSIP) have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore future collaborations in the fields of sustainable mobility and low carbon energy. MSIP, a joint venture between Michelin, Dundee City Council and Scottish Enterprise, is a world-class Innovation Parc in Dundee for sustainable mobility and low carbon energy that will drive growth and diversity in the Scottish economy while addressing the global climate emergency. The University is developing its Eden Campus in Guardbridge to enhance innovation in companies working in energy storage, conversion and other technologies, by providing scale-up facilities for research and development, early prototyping and proving technology, before moving to large-scale manufacture. Under the terms of the agreement, the University and MSIP will commit to the shared delivery of low-carbon technologies, supporting product development in companies, assisting companies in the sustainable mobility and low-carbon sectors to grow, offering test and demonstration facilities and equipment and access to external funding. Both organisations will also explore the potential for work experience and apprenticeships opportunities while St Andrews will support the delivery of courses, modules or postgraduate training through the proposed Skills Academy at MSIP. St Andrews Chief Operating Officer Derek Watson said: “Papermill workers in Guardbridge suffered similar job losses to workers at Michelin. It is fitting therefore that the two new emerging facilities work together at every opportunity to rebuild their communities. “We are delighted to forge an alliance between Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc, Eden Campus and the wider academic community at the University of St Andrews.” MSIP Chief Operating Officer Colin Mcilraith said: “The University of St Andrews has an international reputation for excellence across multiple areas that link well with what MSIP is aspiring to achieve and it has excellent graduates that provide a competitive skills offer to our future tenants. “At Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc we want to create an environment that brings academia and industry together to collaborate on innovations and technology that will change the future of mobility. We know that energy storage, conversion and the technology to do so is critical to that. “Eden Campus will push forward new innovations in that space and given that is the focus of MSIP, this is a great fit for us. I’m really pleased this strategic partnership is underway.”
Property insurance specialist NFU Mutual is urging commercial property owners and their tenants not to neglect Fire Risk Assessments during the pandemic. The warning comes as NFU Mutual claims statistics reveal a 46% spike in the number of commercial property fires during lockdown. * Trevor Palmer, Property Insurance Specialist at NFU Mutual, said: “The ongoing global crisis has put pressure on commercial property owners and their tenants as they adopt new measures to ensure working environments are COVID-secure, often involving changes to the premises. “Having seen a spike in our commercial fire claims statistics, we’re concerned that the added focus on Coronavirus may be causing some premises to put other safety matters to one side. “While following Coronavirus guidance is imperative, it should not be at the expense of other health and safety activity. Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) are a legal requirement for all non-domestic premises, allowing identification of specific areas of fire risk and providing recommended corrective actions to safeguard occupants. “FRAs should also be reviewed if your building undergoes significant change. Where changes impact on any common areas within a property, the owner should consider the implications on fire safety and whether the current assessment will need to be re-visited. “Owners should also encourage tenants to assess if any changes they are making, such as introducing partitioning, changing desk layouts and exit pathways or altering fire meeting points, will have an effect on fire safety and require updates to the FRA.” “As Coronavirus poses new challenges, it is important to give pre-existing dangers equal consideration. The risk of fire remains, and property owners should maintain efforts to protect occupants, properties and themselves from fire incidents. “Robust owner to tenant communications are essential, and while the current focus is likely related to lease agreements, rent and service charge payments, every effort should be made to keep fire safety at the forefront of all communications. All parties should be fully aware of where the responsibility lies for updating the FRA and making necessary changes at the property.” NFU Mutual top tips on fire safety vigilance Communication is key – keep all stakeholders up to date with Fire Risk Assessment progress and changes Ensure all records of contact details are kept up to date in case they are needed in an emergency Regularly review the Fire Risk Assessment, particularly if there have been any changes on the premises Stay up to date with all relevant fire safety legislation Consider consulting fire safety and risk management professionals for technical information on fire safety While it is not a requirement for Fire Risk Assessments to be documented if there are fewer than five occupants, keeping a written record is still advisable While your insurer may not ask for your Fire Risk Assessment, providing it upfront can aid clarity during any subsequent claims For further information on Fire Risk Assessments, you can download NFU Mutual’s guidance document here: https://www.nfumutual.co.uk/news-and-stories/maintaining-fire-safety-during-lockdown
Decarbonising construction to produce more sustainable and better performing buildings will be crucial to creating a more viable ecological future. Andy Goodwin, Managing Director of sustainable specialist contractor, B&K Structures considers the pitfalls surrounding a green construction recovery. It can be done – lockdown provided evidence of just what can be achieved in a few short weeks. But mitigating climate change is no small task however as we start to return to work, it is clear that both a ‘green recovery’ and securing a more resilient economy have been at the forefront of the government’s statements and plans. The government’s response to climate change has been to set net zero carbon targets by 2050 but if further restrictions come into play, I simply cannot see how this is achievable if we limit the use of our most sustainable, replenishable and natural construction material – timber. There is a lot resting on the government’s shoulders at present and as we wait for the decision of the MHCLG consultation, the shift in the media mood is tangible. Roger Harrabin reported on BBC News that the government is planning to reduce the maximum height of structural timber buildings from six storeys to four to reduce fire risk. Harrabin rightly pointed out that this action would contradict other advice to increase timber construction because trees lock up climate-heating carbon emissions. Likewise, under the banner of ‘Do you want beautiful, sustainable and safe tall buildings? Use wood’ – Rowan Moore of the Guardian shared his perspective stating: ‘This is the engineering of timber so that it can act as an alternative to steel and concrete. Its environmental benefits are compelling: whereas concrete is a particularly devastating material, said to account for 4%-8% of the world’s CO2, timber locks up the carbon absorbed by the growth of trees. While construction is a major contributor to greenhouse gases, building in wood has the potential to reduce them.’ Until recently the benefits of carbon sequestration were not widely discussed. But with the growing evidence of global warming and the need for change – sustainability is now back at the top of the construction agenda. Timber creates a natural carbon store through sequestration. For example, cross laminated timber has a net store of 676kg of CO2, /M3. In simple terms the use of timber will have a positive impact on the environment, embodied carbon is therefore pivotal in the fight to reduce our carbon footprint. We have been advocating this for years, but it appears that potentially banning engineered timber in the external walls of residential sectors above 11m – has created a groundswell of support for timber construction. It is clear that the UK is out of step with the approach being taken by leading economies in Europe. Even our UK partners are taking a more pragmatic and practical approach. The Scottish building regulations are eminently sensible – building up to 18m in structural timber is permitted when supported by evidence of non-combustible cladding and well-designed fire management systems. Global concerns to mitigate climate change have prompted some cities and governments to consider the embodied emissions of the materials we use to construct buildings, particularly the sum of all the energy required to extract, process, manufacture, transport, build, and maintain each material. With this consideration in mind, timber is an attractive option since it can achieve less embodied and operational emissions in comparison to concrete and steel. In addition, the prefabrication of timber components with precision can deliver a highly efficient building envelope that improves insulation, saves on heating and cooling and minimises thermal bridging. In these highly uncertain times, the construction sector needs absolute certainty that there will be no backtracking on the government’s commitment to strengthen Part L of the Building Regulations. We simply must not lose sight of the UK’s ambition to create a low-carbon economy. About B&K Structures Through careful design detailing and value engineering, B&K Structures is able to offer the best possible offsite manufactured construction solutions, ensuring a smooth integration for follow-on trades – delivering award-winning, environmentally and sustainable projects on time and to budget. B&K Structures has worked with some of the UK’s most renowned clients to develop outstanding buildings with sustainable credentials. For more information on their product portfolio and full range of services go to www.bkstructures.co.uk
Babcock’s Rosyth site is the first UK user of Meiko’s automated respirator washing technology, which provides Log 5 protection. “Along with being able to evidence compliance with regulations, we know that our people are supplied with fully maintained kit, to the highest levels of cleanliness,” says Colin Chrystal, Health, Safety & Environmental Manager at Babcock’s Rosyth site. “We anticipate being able to fully inspect, disinfect and maintain 60 units per day, comfortably. Babcock’s Rosyth site is currently washing 10 masks per day using the Meiko TopClean M Cleaning and Disinfection system (3M 6000 full face respirators and 3M 7500 half mask respirators). “We are also investigating the possibility of cleaning our powered Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) head tops using the same system (3M M-200 series Versaflo and Speedglas head tops).” Babcock’s Rosyth site is home to one of the largest waterside manufacturing and repair facilities in the UK, and is embarking on a new era of digitising its facilities and systems to bring advancements and efficiencies into its manufacturing, build and assembly processes. It has retained a Five Star safety award for 18 consecutive years and has been awarded the Sword of Honour on 12 occasions from the British Safety Council. The site’s Safety Management System has been audited by Lloyd’s Register to the OHSAS 18001 standard, from which it will transition to ISO 45001 in August. Continues Colin Chrystal, “The previous process was to issue RPE to the individual, who was responsible for undertaking the cleaning and inspection of the RPE. However, we then took the decision to have all cleaning, maintenance, inspection and record keeping undertaken by trained warehouse operatives. “Our previous care and maintenance process relied on the person cleaning, inspecting and maintaining their RPE, and then recording it on a form that was passed to their Supervisor. We identified that a central pool with trained maintainers would improve this and our ability to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of the PPE Regulations and HSG 53. “To achieve this, we had to move our provision of RPE from a one person, one mask system, to a pool system. We identified the Meiko TopClean M as key to ensuring support from our people. Being able to demonstrate the log 5* reduction in germ contamination was key to winning the hearts and minds of the individuals using it.” The new system should prove more ‘sustainable’ in terms of water/chemicals/energy savings. “An additional benefit is that, because we have moved to a pool system, the cost of supplying new RPE to individuals has reduced. The maintenance process is now environmentally efficient; our trained warehouse employees assess and inspect the RPE and replace parts, as required. We are now in a position where future projects will benefit from this process in term of costs and our people receiving the best kit. “Along with being able to evidence compliance with regulations, etc, we know that individuals are supplied with fully maintained kit, to the highest levels of cleanliness.” Introducing the new cleaning and disinfection process required on-site support and training from Meiko UK. Colin Chrystal rates the support from Meiko: “Good – all of our queries have been answered almost immediately!” Babcock Rosyth site is using Meiko’s TopClean M mask cleaning basket system. More information: * Log reduction is a measure of how thoroughly a decontamination process reduces the concentration of a contaminant or pathogen. The greater the log reduction, the more effective the product is at killing bacteria and other pathogens that can cause infections. A Log 5 reduction equates to 99.999% killing of pathogens. For more information on Meiko, contact: Mark Roberts, Marketing Manager Meiko UK Limited, 393 Edinburgh Avenue, Slough, Berkshire, SL1 4UF Tel: 01753 215120 E-Mail: MeikoUK@meiko-uk.co.uk
Following calls from architectural experts to save on carbon emissions by upgrading older buildings instead of knocking them down, building designers and specifiers should consider retrofitting solutions to improve overall sustainability. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) estimates that a sizeable proportion of a building’s lifecycle carbon is emitted during construction – 35% and 51% for office and residential properties respectively. These findings have prompted campaigns for developers to prioritise the restoration of older properties over demolishing and replacing them at high carbon costs. According to REHAU, retrofit piping solutions will be vital to ensuring the viability of this upgrade-centric approach and aiding the construction sector’s fight against climate change. “The Government committing the country to net zero emissions by 2050 has made improving sustainability a key concern across all sectors, including construction,” says Steve Richmond, Head of Marketing and Technical at REHAU Building Solutions. “With that in mind, these RICS figures show just how damaging it can be to opt for new-builds over renovating older properties, especially at a time when we should be reducing emissions. “While building services suppliers should incorporate retrofit capabilities into their product designs as standard, it is now clearer than ever that this consideration should become a necessity. These solutions will be vital to improving the efficiency of older buildings in line with modern standards, while negating the carbon costs associated with creating the materials required to build a new property in their place.” A number of sustainable, high-performing solutions are already available for developers and specifiers looking to retrofit existing properties. These solutions, made from eco-friendly, recyclable polymer, include heating, plumbing and acoustic drainage systems that are easy to install and adapt to space and project demands, while improving building efficiency and performance. Steve concludes: “The carbon costs associated with their construction means new buildings may not pay back their carbon debt for decades. As such, retrofitting should become a priority for specifiers and developers looking to improve the sustainability of their operations, especially as lowering carbon emissions grows in importance in the run-up to 2050. “Opting for efficient building services solutions that can be adapted to suit existing properties is therefore crucial to reducing carbon emissions. With the support of suppliers such as REHAU, developers and specifiers are well-placed to adapt to these changing priorities and the challenges posed in upgrading these older buildings.” For more information on REHAU’s Building Solutions, click here.
The construction industry is always looking for new ways to make the sector safer, easier and more efficient. From utilising modern AI to ensuring fast construction site broadband. Over recent decades, technology has evolved at a staggering rate, however, due to the strict requirements needed from construction to ensure safety, it is only recently that these technologies have been able to meet the specifications needed to be used. In this article, we look at the top ten construction technology trends to look for in 2020. 1. Big Data Data is the currency of the modern world and with 2.5 quintillion bytes of data generated every day, it can be a struggle to manually interpret all of this and make proper use of it. Big data removes the almost impossible task of this, the human brain can only process so much, not to mention the natural errors that could be included in this process. Using big data to discover trends within data, within a matter of minutes, is shaping the face of the construction sector. This data is collated from all manner of resources, from internet search history, smartphones, social media and even photographs. Previous data can be used to pick out trends and patterns to help avoid pitfalls and aid in a successful project. It can even determine when a project should start by analysing weather patterns and traffic. 2. Artificial intelligence & Machine Learning AI is intelligence that mimics the behaviour of a human, ML is this but also learns from previous experience without having to be programmed and can avoid any previous errors. Both AI and ML are becoming essential to the world of construction. Machinery can be programmed to carry out manual tasks that are relative, such as bricklaying and welding, which means workers are free to carry out other tasks. It can even make a site safer, AI can look out for hazards and alert workers of dangers. It can even use photo recognition to ensure staff and visitors are wearing correct PPE. 3. The Internet of Things Most households use IoT, but construction sites are increasingly seeing this present as well. The IoT is when a central platform controls smart devices, such as phones, watches and speakers. This is being rolled out across the sector in fantastic new ways. Sensors are being installed in machinery, for example, cement mixers can alert workers when the contents are low and even engines can automatically switch off when not in use. Safety is increasing, workers wearing smart technology can be notified using geo-location when they have entered a danger zone. Footfall can even be tracked, reducing arduous paperwork and saving time. 4. Robotics & Drones No longer just for hobbyists, these amazing inventions are so versatile, most sectors are taking advantage. Drones can be used to fly in materials, in a fraction of the delivery time of vehicles. Not only does this speed up the process, but also reduce a site’s carbon footprint. Cameras on drones can be used for a quick, comprehensive overview of a site, meaning managers can quickly identify hazards. Demolition robots are becoming the norm, although flowers than using human workers, they are safer and less expensive. 5. 5G and Wi-Fi 6 No business can properly run without adequate communication, most of which is now done via the internet. While broadband is the best means of ensuring a fast, reliable connection, this isn’t always feasible on every site, especially when the project is short-term. 5G and wi-fi 6 are considerably faster than their predecessors and allow all team members to easily communicate with each other and clients while making sure that documentation and data are easily accessible throughout the project. 6. BIM Technology Building information modelling technology uses intelligence to aid designers during the initial process. BIM technology uses AI to flag clashes during the design process, including plumbing and electrics. It can even offer solutions to these clashes, meaning all those involved do not need expertise in every element in order to design a safe and functioning building. 7. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality VR creates a fully immersive experience into a virtual world while AR places digital elements into a real-life view. Virtual tours can be provided, even before the construction of a building starts, meaning clients can have a full picture of what to expect upon completion. Risk assessments can be completed remotely, allowing site managers to get a good view of every part of the design. This also removes the wait time for these team members to be present to carry out these assessments. 8. 3D Printing 3D printing is quickly becoming indispensable within the sector. Materials can be printed on-site, removing waiting times and reducing delivery vehicles on our roads contributing to carbon emissions. As these parts are relevantly cheap to produce, it provides the means to experiment with new designs and allow easy trial and error. There are times when bespoke pieces are required, which can be costly to have made as a one-off by manufacturers. Using 3D printing means almost anything can be created. 9. Mobile and Cloud Technologies Most of us use the cloud within our personal life, but it is quickly becoming one of the most important technologies within construction. Being able to share files instantly reduces time wasted between departments, while still ensuring these files are stored safely and securely. These can be updated in real-time, allowing better collaboration and communication. 10. Blockchain Technologies The most commonly known blockchain technology is Bitcoin. Digital currency can be stored safely as payment and ensures all parties are satisfied throughout the project. Payment is safely stored with a third party with an agreed contract in place. Once the contract has been satisfied, this payment is released. This removes the worry from clients not knowing if they will get what was expected and means contractors will always be paid upon completion. This year is proving an exciting year for construction technology trends, with these in place, construction
Construction on a new 23,000 sq ft Mansfield-based Lidl store is on track to complete later this autumn, according to leading property and investment group Strawsons Property. Leeds-based contractor Castlehouse Construction has been appointed to the Leeming Lane development site which is prominently positioned on the main arterial route to the North of Mansfield with easy access to the A60. The arrival of Lidl will further complement the wider commercial and retail offering in the area which includes the likes of Greggs and Screwfix at Old Mill Lane. Boasting over 100 car parking spaces, the new store will bring a significant number of jobs to the area and construction is anticipated to complete in September. Part of a long-term relationship with the retailer, this will be the 23rd store constructed by Castlehouse Construction on behalf of Lidl. Phil Dewell, Construction Director, Castlehouse Construction commented: “We are delighted to work with Strawsons Property to build our 23rd Lidl supermarket which will complement the wider commercial and retail offering in the area and forms part of the supermarket brand’s strategic growth plans.” Adam Jones of Strawsons Property commented: “We’re delighted that construction work on the new Mansfield Lidl which forms part of our Old Mill Lane estate is heading towards completion and that we are one step closer to delivering what will be an incredible asset to the local community. “Old Mill Lane continues to grow from strength to strength and we are proud to turn one of the last disused plots of land back into a use that will create a significant amount of jobs and an improved retail offering in the town.” Strawsons Property is a private property development and investment group with more than 50 years’ experience. The company focuses on developments and schemes that meet local needs and aspirations – spanning office, residential, industrial and mixed-use sectors.