A new report from the NHBC Foundation today highlights how trailblazing developers are exploring the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). The new report, ‘Modern methods of construction: who’s doing what?’, found that developers at the forefront were investing significantly in MMC and that a majority had plans to
Temporary buildings are used by manufacturers for a variety of purposes. They provide a quick solution to short-term needs or a way to create space that is needed fast. They can be attached to a warehouse or installed as stand-alone structures on a manufacturing plant. Modular buildings, which are sectional
Healthcare consultancy, Essentia Trading, has won a place on a national framework making it easier for NHS Trusts and other public sector bodies to procure experts on property and estates strategy. The Framework for the Provision of Property and Estates Consultancy Services (OJEU Reference: 2018/S 106 – 241898) was set
As winter approaches, a national trade body is issuing a timely reminder to property managers to ensure air quality management is on their radar. With the arrival of dark nights and dropping temperatures, moisture levels in buildings start to increase. Air becomes more laden with water, meaning that issues such
Leading property, land and construction company Henry Boot PLC has undertaken a transformation of its HR function in collaboration with MHR, designed to streamline and optimise its processes to enhance the work/life balance of its people. New employee focused services implemented through its iTrent system, including Total Rewards Statements and
ISG has further demonstrated its commitment to maximising technology to drive operational efficiencies by securing a BIM Level 2 accreditation for its collaborative, dynamic delivery of projects using digital construction techniques. The global construction services company was awarded the BSI Kitemark for its BIM Level 2 certification to PAS1192:2-2013 and
At the end of October, the Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond delivered the 2018 Autumn Budget. While the majority of announcements were somewhat expected, there were still a few surprises thrown in. For the construction industry, there were various points included which will have an impact on the industry’s
An architecturally designed new build home completed recently in County Cork utilises high performance weberend MT multi-coat render system by Saint-Gobain Weber. Designed by award-winning practice Simply Architecture, of Cork City, this contemporary property is a timber frame construction manufactured by ECO Timber Frame, Carrigaline, Cork. Gareth Sullivan, who is
Horbury Facades, part of the Horbury Group based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has secured a contract with Sir Robert McAlpine worth £4 million to deliver a ‘through-wall’ solution on a new multi-occupancy residential development in Manchester. Forming part of the £80m regeneration of Salford’s Chapel Street area, the scheme on
Carter Jonas, the national property consultancy, has secured planning permission on behalf of the Society of Antiquaries of London for a new on-site education centre at Kelmscott Manor, alongside the conservation and refurbishment of the West Oxfordshire estate’s Grade I listed heritage buildings. Kelmscott Manor is a limestone manor house
A new report from the NHBC Foundation today highlights how trailblazing developers are exploring the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). The new report, ‘Modern methods of construction: who’s doing what?’, found that developers at the forefront were investing significantly in MMC and that a majority had plans to expand the number of homes they build using such methods. Among the house builders, housing associations and developer/manufacturers included, the report details high levels of adoption of different, advanced forms of MMC such as volumetric modules and panelised systems. Better quality, improved efficiency, accelerated delivery and increased productivity are cited by these developers as key factors driving their uptake of MMC. The report, which was produced on behalf of the NHBC Foundation by Cast, which is led by Mark Farmer, author of the Farmer Review, features a range of case studies, demonstrating a diversity of approaches to the adoption of MMC, as well as a wider survey which showed that 30% of those studied were already investing in their own manufacturing facility and a further 9% had plans to do so. In addition, and as a further indication of confidence, 62% were committing funds to research and development to enhance technologies further. Commenting on the new report, Neil Smith, NHBC Head of Standards, Innovation and Research, said: “The study explores the current levels of interest in MMC from a range of developers of different sizes and types and provides a useful benchmark to gauge future trends and patterns in the uptake of innovative forms of construction. “Overall, the findings demonstrate a clear commitment by developers to delivering high-quality new homes through the adoption of MMC. As this confidence in MMC grows and more technologies become proven, we will begin to realise the full potential for MMC to build more, and higher-quality, homes.” Mark Farmer, chief executive of Cast, added: “We’re delighted to see NHBC Foundation taking a lead here in raising industry awareness of industry’s gradual move towards embracing MMC. This report highlights how pre-manufacturing has the potential to drive not just productivity and profit – but quality and efficiency. “What is also clear is that developers are approaching the use of MMC in different ways. We expect that pre-manufacturing will continue be used in a variety of combinations and using different materials and systems.” For further information please visit http://www.nhbcfoundation.org
Temporary buildings are used by manufacturers for a variety of purposes. They provide a quick solution to short-term needs or a way to create space that is needed fast. They can be attached to a warehouse or installed as stand-alone structures on a manufacturing plant. Modular buildings, which are sectional prefabricated structures, can be put together elsewhere then delivered to the customer. The delivery may be in one or several complete sections. These buildings are cost-effective and provide a fast solution when one is needed. Smart space buildings are some of the best quality temporary buildings in the market. Advantages over Traditional Construction Temporary buildings have many advantages over traditional ones. Some of these advantages include: Flexibility They are portable, therefore, providing ease of relocation. Whether temporary or permanent, modular buildings are durable and secure. They are appropriate for the applications of any manufacturing plant. They take a shorter time to construct They employ an accelerated production method thereby making it possible for the construction to be completed fast. There are no site-related delays or bottlenecks. Design and constructions time is reduced by up to 50%. They are cost-effective This is due to reduced labor and fewer material costs. When construction is done off-site, there is maximum utilization of labour and fewer material purchases. Waste is also reduced. Additionally, you have the following financial options: Lease your portable structure Opt for a lease-to-own alternative Purchase the building outright Opt for a guaranteed buy-back option Any type of industry will find an alternative that best suits its particular requirements. Their quality is more consistent With modular buildings, for instance, quality is guaranteed every step of the building process. The components are inspected at every phase and approved by third-party inspectors. Compliance with specifications and codes is insisted upon. The facilities that are utilized are state-of-the-art and the constructers integrate the best practices to produce the best designs. Temporary buildings must meet the same specifications of conventional buildings. Therefore, you will get a structure that meets the same standards of quality, longevity and durability that are expected of the traditionally constructed structures. Other benefits include versatility and diminished site disruptions. These benefits make them suitable for a lot of uses in not only the manufacturing industry but also other industries as well. They have therefore risen in popularity over the years as better alternatives to conventional buildings which take a lot of time and money to put up. It is possible to build individual modular building components on site as the site is being prepared for construction, and then have additional architectural details added. The modular project then looks just like the other conventional structures. This saves you time and money. Types of Temporary Structures for Manufacturers Restrooms Training facilities Locker rooms Administrative offices Break rooms Laboratories Healthcare facilities The manufacturing industry players have a deep understanding and appreciation of the value that temporary buildings bring to the sector. This is especially with regard to providing solutions for much-needed space. In addition, there is the quality, safety and speed all of which are highly regarded in manufacturing.
Healthcare consultancy, Essentia Trading, has won a place on a national framework making it easier for NHS Trusts and other public sector bodies to procure experts on property and estates strategy. The Framework for the Provision of Property and Estates Consultancy Services (OJEU Reference: 2018/S 106 – 241898) was set up to help enable NHS organisations deliver the recommendations of the independent review by Sir Robert Naylor on NHS Property and Estates (March 2017). The framework is being run by NHS Commercial Solutions, extends for four years and has an estimated value of £100m. The Naylor review asserted that without investment into the NHS estate, the Government’s Five Year Forward View (5YFV) could not be delivered and the NHS estate would remain unfit for purpose and continue to deteriorate. It called for the NHS to develop robust capital plans that align with clinical strategies, maximise value for money (including land sales) and address backlog maintenance, backed by capital from the Government. The review also identified that £2bn could be realised from selling off surplus land within NHS estates to help fund 26,000 homes. Essentia has won places on Lot 1 (Land and Property Appraisals (Six Facet Surveys1) and Lot 2: General Property and Estates Consultancy) of the framework. Stephen Edgar, Director of Property at Essentia, said: “The NHS estate is large and of varying quality. It comprises over 1,200 sites, 6,500 hectares of land and buildings with a gross internal area of 26 million square metres. Forty-three percent of the estate is over 30 years’ old and whilst some buildings have been upgraded, much of the NHS is operating in inadequate buildings. “There is a significant need to modernise the estate, as well as deal with backlog maintenance. In some cases, out of date or unfit buildings could be sold or used for other purposes such as housing. “At Essentia, our team is highly experienced in managing property for the NHS and other public sector organisations. By enhancing property management, flexible use of space and rationalisation of estate, we are assisting organisations in delivering savings and reinvesting disposal proceeds back into front line services. Our extensive property expertise and knowledge helps our clients develop their estate strategy and business cases to enable service transformation.” Essentia’s property and estates management clients include: Royal Salford NHS Foundation Trust, Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, The Queen Victoria Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (East Grinstead), Barts Health NHS Trust and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, amongst others. For more information on Essentia’s property expertise visit: https://www.essentia.uk.com/
As winter approaches, a national trade body is issuing a timely reminder to property managers to ensure air quality management is on their radar. With the arrival of dark nights and dropping temperatures, moisture levels in buildings start to increase. Air becomes more laden with water, meaning that issues such as condensation, and even damp and mould, can take hold. As a result, the Property Care Association (PCA) is urging property managers to ensure appropriate servicing, repairs and checks are made to ventilation fans and air management systems, to tackle the issue. Steve Hodgson, chief executive of the PCA, said: “Ventilation fans and air management systems are at the front line in providing a healthier environment for people to live and work in. “They play an invaluable role at this time of year at addressing the heavy, cold air that can circulate in buildings as temperatures drop. “However, despite the contribution they make to air quality, it’s not uncommon for their service and repair to be overlooked. “Without a structured servicing regime, waste can build up in the system. This can become a breeding ground for bacteria and also reduce efficiency. “It is also not uncommon for systems to be installed which are not the correct specification for their particular environment. “This is unfortunate as effective ventilation is the most effective way to tackle excess moisture in buildings.” The PCA’s membership includes professionals with the skills and expertise to undertake the design and installation of ventilation solutions for commercial and residential areas. More details can be found at www.property-care.org/
Leading property, land and construction company Henry Boot PLC has undertaken a transformation of its HR function in collaboration with MHR, designed to streamline and optimise its processes to enhance the work/life balance of its people. New employee focused services implemented through its iTrent system, including Total Rewards Statements and a holiday ‘buy and sell’ scheme, combined with an expansion of its Self Service modules and new levels of automation has resulted in better streamlined systems for holiday, payroll, benefits and pensions, a reduction in manual administration and increased engagement across the organisation. The transformation project was carried out as part of a company-wide initiative called ‘One Henry Boot’, conceived in late 2016 / 17 to better understand what defines its culture – ‘The Henry Boot Way’ – with a focus on its vision, purpose and values. Rachel White, Head of HR at Henry Boot said: “Our people are central to our overall performance and success. At the heart of ‘One Henry Boot’ project was a strong commitment to identify what is important to our employees and put in place efficient processes and systems to improve their work/life balance and experience. “By fostering close links with an experienced and knowledgeable partner in MHR we have been able to customise our software and introduce new tailored processes to meet the needs of the business and the support the wellbeing of our people.” MHR carried out a comprehensive strategic review of Henry Boot’s existing HR and payroll processes to identify areas for improvement, and facilitated a trial of its latest software modules to enable Henry Boot to experience the benefits first-hand. Following the assessment, Henry Boot introduced MHR’s Total Rewards Statement module to increase employee awareness of the value of the benefits they receive as part of their contract, such as Life Assurance or Permanent Health Insurance. Rachel said: “The Total Rewards Statement provides an easy way to visually represent and break down all the different benefits and their associated value as part of our commitment to our people. This can be fully customisable for the specific needs of our employees and so offers the flexibility we desire for our different employee groups.” To further improve employee work/life balance, MHR extended Henry Boot’s Employee Self Service (ESS) module to accommodate additional activities, such as Learning and Development, to increase user engagement while empowering employees to take control of their transactional tasks and personal growth. Meanwhile, a holiday ‘buy and sell’ scheme has been introduced as an additional benefit, giving employees greater ownership of their working time. Rachel said: “We understand how much our people value extra time with family, or a bit of extra income when it’s needed. iTrent offers a solution that is completely flexible for the different needs of our people rather than a one size fits all solution. The fact that this is all available within the ESS module means we can save time on admin, and our people can remain in control of what they need and value.” The transformation project has reduced the amount of queries Henry Boot’s HR team has to answer, freeing up their time for more vital tasks such as recruitment, employee relations and the implementation of ideas from the One Henry Boot project. Rachel said: “We expect to make significant cost savings in 2018 due to the reduction in manual admin time, while we have already reduced the amount of paper produced by the team, and also the number of days taken to produce contracts, deal with administration of new employees, and L&D administration.” Anton Roe, Chief Executive Officer at MHR comments: “We’re delighted to have supported Henry Boot through this transformation journey. “The transformation project at Henry Boot is a perfect example of how working in collaboration with our strategic team, organisations can embrace new ways of working and innovate their HR processes to deliver business improvements while meeting the expectations of their people.”
ISG has further demonstrated its commitment to maximising technology to drive operational efficiencies by securing a BIM Level 2 accreditation for its collaborative, dynamic delivery of projects using digital construction techniques. The global construction services company was awarded the BSI Kitemark for its BIM Level 2 certification to PAS1192:2-2013 and BS1192:4. The accreditation refers specifically to project delivery, where graphical data, non-graphical data and documents, known collectively as the project information model (PIM), are accumulated from design and construction activities. Mark Norton, ISG’s head of BIM, said: “In the last few years, we have seen a seismic shift in our clients’ understanding of BIM and the processes involved with using digital construction techniques. “This BSI Kitemark shows our commitment to implementing the technology in all our design, build and fit-out contracts and recognises that we have the robust processes and protocols to manage and utilise data in the correct way. “BIM is flexible enough to be used across multiple applications and enhances our construction and fit-out expertise to deliver better, smarter and more innovative buildings. Gaining the BIM Level 2 certification also means we can provide assurances to our supply chain that we are fully equipped to deliver a comprehensive range and value of public sector and private sector contracts with maximum efficiency.” The use of BIM has grown exponentially in the UK construction sector and Level 2 accreditation became a recommended requirement for companies wishing to tender for centrally-procured UK government contracts, in April 2016. Since then, the industry has adopted the technology to provide better collaboration on projects and meet the demands of technology-driven buildings. BIM Level 2 accreditation was issued to ISG by BSI following an assessment of process and project delivery which includes client satisfaction, collaborative engagement with the supply chain and a progressive training regime.
At the end of October, the Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond delivered the 2018 Autumn Budget. While the majority of announcements were somewhat expected, there were still a few surprises thrown in. For the construction industry, there were various points included which will have an impact on the industry’s near future. Changes to funding, local and national authorities will all play a part in shaping the next few years for those working in construction. Goodbye PFI The private finance initiative (PFI) was introduced as a way to create public-private partnerships (PPPs), with private companies contracted to complete and manage public projects. This had many benefits for the construction industry, providing a range of projects for firms through the government. In the Autumn Budget PFIs have been abolished, though the government will honour any existing contracts. This is due to the belief that PFIs don’t deliver value to the taxpayer and shift risks to the private sector instead. House Building Boost An extra £500 million was committed to the Housing Infrastructure Fund to create 650,000 new homes across the country. Plus, on the day the budget was announced the plans to scrap the cap on council borrowing to build new housing came into effect. While this is good news for those looking to get on the housing ladder with the likes of Andrews, it’s also positive for construction firms as it should mean more work. The infrastructure fund was also announced to receive a £38 billion boost by 2023/24, offering further opportunities in the future. Apprenticeship Benefits Apprenticeship fees were halved from 10% to 5% for small businesses in the Autumn 2018 Budget. This is a fee any small business must pay when they take on an apprentice, which plenty of construction companies currently do. By slashing this in half it is part of a £695 million package to support both apprenticeships and the wider industries. For many construction firms it means they’ll either be able to take on more apprentices or will save money that can be spent elsewhere. Stamp Duty Changes Most of the current thresholds for stamp duty have been left alone. However, higher stamp duty charges for the most expensive homes were announced, along with changes to first-time buyers of shared-ownership homes. Under the new regulations, buyers of shared-ownership homes up to £500,000 will be exempt from the tax, in a move to encourage more house buying. This could have a knock-on effect for the construction industry as demand may increase. Most of the announcements in the Autumn Budget for 2018 sound like they will have a positive rather than negative impact for the construction industry but time will tell.
An architecturally designed new build home completed recently in County Cork utilises high performance weberend MT multi-coat render system by Saint-Gobain Weber. Designed by award-winning practice Simply Architecture, of Cork City, this contemporary property is a timber frame construction manufactured by ECO Timber Frame, Carrigaline, Cork. Gareth Sullivan, who is principal architect at Simply Architecture, designed the property for his own family and project managed the build. The brief was to design an energy efficient family home that incorporated innovative construction methods to overcome the challenges of a problematic site. Simply Architecture is an RIAI and RIBA accredited practice excelling in well-crafted bespoke projects. Gareth is also a Certified Passive House Designer. Gareth comments: “Our family home (1900sq ft) is set into a very difficult small and steeply sloping site in Douglas. The site is compromised by three existing wayleaves which allows access to service pipes that restrict the area available to a small wedge-shaped space. As a result, there were many failed planning applications by a previous owner. The solution proposed maximising the unconventional shaped footprint with a split-level form.” Essentially the property had to be energy efficient and use systems that made it easier to build on this challenging site. As a result, a timber frame construction was chosen with a cement board and a multi-coat render system. The Passive House certified timber frame system created by ECO Timber Frame, which typically uses 90% less energy than conventional construction designs, includes key features of high thermal insulation and very low U-values with almost no thermal bridging. A very high level of air-tightness, passive gains utilising solar panels, and a MHRV – mechanical heat recovery ventilation system – are incorporated in the design. Walls are insulated within the timber structure with much of the fabrication work carried out off-site helping to reduce time and costs during the early build programme. Overall this contributes to greater project efficiencies, easier access, a cleaner and tidier site, and a substantially reduced on-site build programme. “Much of our work is with the one off and self-build sector,” says Stephen Spillane, joint owner of ECO Timber Frame. “It was clear from the beginning that Gareth was committed to building to Passive House standards which worked out nicely as our system was awarded certification at around the time the order was placed. “We use only eco-friendly building materials resulting in high quality, extremely well insulated, air-tight timber frame homes. Our system is designed for clients who want to build a low-energy property, or to Passive House standards.” A construction system using an EPS insulated foundation with a timber frame structure proved to be the most efficient method. The timber frame is a certified Passive House system with an overall thickness of 362mm to the external walls which have a U-value of 0.12 W/m²K. Stephen continues: “Working with any architect requires close attention to detail, even more so when the architect is also the client. The shape of the house certainly posed some challenges which led to a bit of head scratching in both the design office and the factory, but when the frame went to site it all fitted like a glove.” The weberend MT multi-coat system by Weber, the leading manufacturer of innovative materials, systems and solutions for the construction industry, has BBA certification. This accreditation meets NHBC requirements for new build housing where builders and developers are constantly seeking modern methods of construction for speed and cost efficiency. The weberend MT system is designed to rapidly finish buildings of frame and panel construction. weberend MT is a light-weight render system which incorporates glass-fibre meshcloth reinforcement with a resin-rich adhesive coat that can carry a choice of finishes in a wide range of colours. This modern render system is designed for large areas of stable render carrier boards without the need for expressed joints to create smooth, modern design aesthetics. weberend MT is also suitable for application to uneven masonry or mixed substrates where a high level of crack resistance is required. Application onto a panel background requires an initial 3mm pass of weberend LAC. The glass fibre reinforcing mesh is laid in as this coat takes up and a second 3mm of weberend LAC is applied. Sponge finish achieves a flat surface. When fully dry, weber PR310 primer is applied prior to the selected finish. A variety of textured finishes in a wide selection of colours can be used to produce weatherproof, vapour permeable protection. The weberend MT application was carried out by Michal Sasinowski of M S Plastering, Glanmire, Co. Cork who found it interesting to see this unique design and the fast build program achieved with off-site construction. weberend MT system was hand applied to achieve uniform colour and texture using the colour Welsh Slate for this contemporary and attractive home. Weber products are manufactured in the UK at sites in Bedfordshire, Shropshire and Co Antrim, ensuring efficient availability and lead times, adding to the company’s sustainability policy, reduced CO₂ emissions and transportation costs. For more information about this project, or for technical support including award winning training courses, please contact Saint-Gobain Weber on 08703 330 070, or visit www.uk.weber. A free download of the Weber App for iPhone and iPad users is also available from iTunes and from Google Play for Android smartphones and tablet users. Follow Saint-Gobain Weber on Twitter @SGWeberUK for the latest company news and updates.
Horbury Facades, part of the Horbury Group based in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, has secured a contract with Sir Robert McAlpine worth £4 million to deliver a ‘through-wall’ solution on a new multi-occupancy residential development in Manchester. Forming part of the £80m regeneration of Salford’s Chapel Street area, the scheme on Gore Street, Manchester, consists of 375 private rent homes, including 364 apartments and 11 townhouses, split across three blocks that range between 22 and 13 storeys in height. Working in collaboration with OMI Architects and SRM project delivery team, Horbury Facades is installing a complex horizontal plank rainscreen cladding system, featuring multi-coloured aluminium panels, and balcony details on the three residential blocks. Horbury Facades is also installing a SFS (Steel Framing System) from EOS and non-combustible Siniat weather defence boards. The scheme is set to be completed by 2020. Adrian Storey, General Manager at Horbury Facades, comments: “We are very excited to have secured the contract to work on the innovative redevelopment of Gore Street, we have extensive experience in delivering external envelope schemes and look forward to working with the team to bring their ideas to life to create vibrant new buildings.” The Gore Street development, funded by Grainger, includes 9,400 sq. ft. of commercial space at ground and second floor level and a public square. The residential blocks will also feature a café, gym and communal area within. Horbury Facades is a specialist rainscreen cladding contractor offering full specification, installation and maintenance services. As a division of Horbury Group, the company has experience of working with a range of materials including composite panels, high pressure laminates, terracotta tiles, steel and aluminium cassette systems. For more information on Horbury Façade’s installation services, visit the website www.horburygroup.com.
Carter Jonas, the national property consultancy, has secured planning permission on behalf of the Society of Antiquaries of London for a new on-site education centre at Kelmscott Manor, alongside the conservation and refurbishment of the West Oxfordshire estate’s Grade I listed heritage buildings. Kelmscott Manor is a limestone manor house that dates from 1570 in the Cotswolds village of Kelmscott. It was built by local farmer Thomas Turner and remained in the family for generations, but is best known as the country home of the writer, designer and socialist William Morris. He lived there from 1871 until his death in 1896 drawing inspiration from the house’s architecture and garden. It featured in his work ‘News from Nowhere’ and in the background of Rosetti’s painting of Morris’ wife ‘Water Willow’. Carter Jonas’ planning and development team worked closely with experts in the consultancy’s rural practice to vary a restrictive covenant in favour of Kelmscott Manor. They also negotiated with a neighbouring landowner to rent a small area of land for a new car park, which involved the surrender of a long-term lease from the agricultural tenant, a change of use and settling terms for a new long-term lease direct with the landowner. The new 969 sq ft (90m2) education centre will be built on the south side of the farmyard with construction due to start in Q2 2019. Conservation repairs will begin in Q2 2020 to the listed buildings of Kelmscott Manor including the house itself, the Stable Barn that houses the cafe and the Granary Building, which contains the visitor’s shop. Nicky Brock, Partner, Carter Jonas said: “It is a privilege to work on an architectural treasure with such a strong design heritage. The planning permission means that important refurbishment works can be undertaken to conserve the collection of Grade I listed building that make up the estate, whilst looking to the future with the addition of the new education centre. This will ensure that visitors can not only enjoy the house and its grounds, but learn more about the legacy of Kelmscott Manor and its most famous resident William Morris. The project is a good example of how we can bring together specialists across our core divisions to create a bespoke solution for our clients.”