The Finalists for 2026 Pump Industry Awards the have been shortlisted across the nine award categories, collectively highlighting the very best in innovation, performance, technical ability, and overall contribution to the pump sector. The annual awards presentation dinner is a celebration of the industry’s best and brightest. Alongside well-deserved reward
The British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists is pleased to announce that the BIFIS Awards 2026, in partnership with InstallerSHOW, is now open for entries. The BIFIS Awards recognises talent, contribution and achievement in the fitted interiors installation sector and has seen significant growth since it launched in October 2021,
STARK Group has been awarded EcoVadis Platinum for the fifth year in a row, the highest distinction in one of the world’s leading sustainability rating systems. With a score of 94/100, the Group ranks in the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies assessed globally. The rating confirms STARK Group’s
From design and planning to cost estimating and site safety monitoring, the increasing role of AI (artificial intelligence) in construction will be a key focus at UK Construction Week London (May 12-14), the UK’s Built Environment super event. New for 2026 and one of six stages delivering over 150 hours
With the workplace continuing to evolve at pace, Workspace Design Show (25-26 February 2026, Business Design Centre, London) brings a powerful programme of thought-filled conversations involving some of the most influential voices in architecture, workplace design, sustainability and occupier strategy. Across four dedicated conference streams, Workspace Design Talks, Sustainability Talks,
Proteus Waterproofing has been shortlisted as a Finalist in three major categories at this year’s Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA) Awards, reinforcing its growing influence and technical leadership within the UK liquid waterproofing market. The LRWA Awards recognise excellence, best practice and innovation across the liquid roofing and waterproofing
Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) proudly celebrated the industry’s leading innovators at its annual Awards Gala on Friday evening at the Natural History Museum, recognising 16 Rising Stars and 12 major category winners who raise the bar for responsible, innovative and inclusive construction. From climate champions to community heroes, this year’s
The Building Research Establishment (BRE) is now inviting entries for its 2026 BREEAM Awards – a celebration of the projects, people and organisations leading the way in sustainable building design, development, operation and management. This year’s awards introduce eight new categories, reflecting BREEAM’s commitment to recognising forward-thinking approaches to sustainability
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, is celebrating a triple win at the Construction Awards of Excellence ceremony held in Birmingham by the National Federation of Builders (NFB), taking home the title spots for three prestigious categories – Rising Star, Innovation in Construction Technology and the Remarkable Heritage and Conservation Project.
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) and its staff have been recognised with multiple awards in 2025 marking the organisation’s professionalism, forest management, technical expertise, innovation and training. At the recent Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards 2025 – highlighting the best management of woods and forests across Scotland – FLS picked
The Finalists for 2026 Pump Industry Awards the have been shortlisted across the nine award categories, collectively highlighting the very best in innovation, performance, technical ability, and overall contribution to the pump sector. The annual awards presentation dinner is a celebration of the industry’s best and brightest. Alongside well-deserved reward and recognition, the evening offers outstanding networking opportunities, and the perfect chance to celebrate with colleagues from across the sector. This highly anticipated industry gathering takes place on Thursday 19th March at the famous Hilton St Georges Park, in Burton on Trent, and promises to be another sell out event. Our 2026 Finalists by award category PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by DFA Media Group PROJECT OF THE YEAR Sponsored by World Pumps ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRIBUTION OF THE YEAR Sponsored by SPP Pumps MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by WEG UK DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Caprari / Calpeda SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Wilo CONTRIBUTION TO SKILLS & TRAINING AWARD Sponsored by ABB RISING STAR AWARD Sponsored by Innomotics SUSTAINABLE CONTRIBUTION FOR A BETTER WORLD Sponsored by AESSEAL The nine winners will be announced during the glittering gala dinner, which will bring together a broad cross-section of industry personnel, and end-user customers, to honour outstanding achievements from right across in the international pump sector. Join us for the celebration A few places are still available, so whether it’s taking a table to host customers or booking a few seats for you, your team and partners, don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to enjoy a wonderful evening of great food, fine wine, fantastic entertainment and that all-important networking until the early hours, when our now infamous ‘survivors’ breakfast’ will be served. To help deliver this key industry awards ceremony, we will be joined by ex-professional snooker champion and popular TV pundit, Steve Davis. Best known for dominating professional snooker during the 1980s, he reached eight World Snooker Championship finals in nine years, won six world titles, and held the world number one ranking for seven consecutive seasons. He was also the first snooker player to make a televised 147 break. Since then, his TV punditry has become legendary, and he can also add DJ, electronic musician, and author to his long list of credits. To book your place please visit www.pumpindustryawards.com/book-tickets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists is pleased to announce that the BIFIS Awards 2026, in partnership with InstallerSHOW, is now open for entries. The BIFIS Awards recognises talent, contribution and achievement in the fitted interiors installation sector and has seen significant growth since it launched in October 2021, and this year will feature new six categories, including the Installer’s Choice Awards, with installation professionals voting for the best products and brands in the sector. The BIFIS Awards are free to enter, and businesses and individuals can nominate themselves, their business, a colleague, business associate, or a company that they work with via a dedicated online platform. Entries can be submitted from Tuesday 10 March and more information on the entry criteria, the submission process and key dates can be found at www.entertoday.co.uk. The 2026 categories are: The Installer’s Choice – voted for by BIFIS registered installers BIFIS CEO Damian Walters commented “The consistent year-on-year growth in both entries and industry support highlights just how important it is to properly recognise and reward this vital workforce. This recognition matters not only to installers themselves, but to the wider fitted interiors industry that depends on their skill, professionalism, and dedication. Each year, we are inspired not just by the volume of submissions, but by the calibre of talent across the sector, from apprentices and installers to installation businesses and managers. The BIFIS Awards provides an inclusive platform that brings the entire installation community together to celebrate excellence and achievement.” New for 2026 BIFIS has teamed up with InstallerSHOW to bring the BIFIS Awards Gala Dinner Ceremony to the show for the very first time! The BIFIS Awards will be presented on the evening of Tuesday 23 June 2026. The BIFIS Awards Gala Dinner will also support the BIFIS Charity of the Year, the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation, in recognition of the foundation’s outstanding work supporting people affected by motor neurone disease, following the loss of former BIFIS Inspector, Geoff Jackson, to the disease in 2025. More information on the BIFIS Awards 2026 can be found at www.entertoday.co.uk For information on remaining sponsorship opportunities, please email comms@bifis.org or call 01375 219 199, option 6. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
STARK Group has been awarded EcoVadis Platinum for the fifth year in a row, the highest distinction in one of the world’s leading sustainability rating systems. With a score of 94/100, the Group ranks in the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies assessed globally. The rating confirms STARK Group’s strong performance across environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement, underlining the Group’s ambition to make sustainability an integrated and commercial driver of its business. For customers, the rating provides independent recognition of STARK Group’s work with responsibility and documentation. The Group now provides CO₂ data for 78% of all LCA-relevant product sales in the Nordics and Germany. In the Nordic markets, product-level climate data is available through digital tools that enable customers to select lower-carbon alternatives, comply with emerging building regulations, and document the overall climate footprint of their projects. At the same time, the Group has invested significantly in capabilities and advisory services. More than 700 sustainability ambassadors have been trained, and nearly half of STARK Group’s 18,500 employees have completed basic sustainability training. STARK Group’s CEO, Søren P. Olesen, says: “Receiving Platinum for the fifth consecutive year demonstrates that sustainability is not a side project, but an integrated part of our business foundation and our collaboration across the value chain. Our ambition is to raise both our own performance and that of the wider industry. By combining strong supplier partnerships, relevant customer tools and ambitious reporting, we make sustainability practical, transparent and a genuine competitive advantage.” STARK UK’s Head of Sustainability, Sabrina Passley, says: “At STARK UK, sustainability is fundamental to how we operate. Being part of a Group that consistently achieves Platinum recognition demonstrates the strength of our governance, transparency and responsible supply chain practices. For our customers, this means practical support, credible product solutions and trusted data to help them build more sustainably. It underlines that sustainability at STARK UK is embedded, measurable and central to our long-term success.” With approximately 15,000 suppliers, STARK Group works systematically to strengthen responsible processes and drive joint development across markets. The focus is on close collaboration between the group’s business units and direct dialogue with suppliers to identify opportunities for partnerships and continuous improvements. STARK Group is also ahead of upcoming regulatory requirements. The Group already reports in accordance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and has published its first integrated financial and sustainability report several years before the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) is expected to apply in full to the company. EcoVadis assesses companies against 21 sustainability criteria across four core areas: environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. The assessment process is designed to enhance transparency and promote continuous improvement across global value chains, enabling customers to monitor performance and identify high-performing partners. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
From design and planning to cost estimating and site safety monitoring, the increasing role of AI (artificial intelligence) in construction will be a key focus at UK Construction Week London (May 12-14), the UK’s Built Environment super event. New for 2026 and one of six stages delivering over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars, The Contech and AI Hub will bring together the brightest minds and the most forward-thinking technologies transforming the built environment. Confirmed talks include: Cutting-edge AI applications across the full project lifecycle How artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an integrated partner throughout the entire project lifecycle. Rather than focusing solely on discrete technological interventions, this session considers AI as an ecosystem that connects strategy, design, delivery and long-term stewardship. Speaker: Andrew Johnson (Okana) Beyond the hype: building AI-ready teams for the digital built environment An opportunity to gain insight into the organisational, cultural and technical transformations required to develop teams who are capable of leveraging AI effectively. The session will address challenges such as skill gaps, change management and aligning AI initiatives with broader business objectives, as well as highlighting successful case studies from leading projects. Speakers: David Philp FICE, FCIOB, FRICS, FCInstCES (Bentley Systems) and Prof Sean Smith BSc PhD FHEA FIOA FRSA HonFRIAS HonFCIAT (University of Edinburgh) From concept to construction: the impact of AI in architecture This session brings together four distinguished architects who are actively engaging with artificial intelligence (AI) to advance contemporary design practice. The panel will examine how emerging AI methodologies are reshaping early concept generation, enabling rapid exploration of form, materiality and spatial performance. Speakers: TBC Real world application of AI in construction and what people don’t tell you! How artificial intelligence (AI) is moving from buzzword to practical tool in the construction industry. Rather than replacing human expertise, this session explores how AI is augmenting it, helping teams analyse complex data, anticipate risks and automate repetitive tasks. Speaker: Lilian Ho AI or Die: Rewriting the Rules of Construction Sales and Marketing This no-nonsense panel cuts through the hype to show how AI is already reshaping construction sales and marketing—and where it clearly isn’t. Panellists will share practical, real-world uses that drive leads, improve targeting, and save time, while calling out common myths and missteps. Speaker: Leigh Simpson (Insynth Marketing) Sam Patel, Divisional Director, UK Construction Week London, commented: “A key element of UKCW London is informing and updating visitors on the rapidly changing technology which is playing an increasing role in the industry – of which AI is a huge part. Anyone working in construction – from architects to site managers – needs to know how this transformative technology can help them in every aspect of their work, so these talks and panel events are a must for everyone.” In addition to the focus on AI, UK Construction Week London will explore a wide spectrum of the most pressing and important topics which affect the industry today, with a packed programme of CPD-accredited panels and seminars covering everything from innovation in construction methods to product testing and assurance; housing insight to workforce capacity; workplace culture to data-driven project management. Bringing together construction leaders, innovators and decision makers from across the industry, UKCW London will run alongside both Futurebuild and The Stone & Surfaces Show, attracting over 25,000 industry professionals. Sponsored by Sage, Wyre, HotelPlanner, Zurich Resilience Solutions and Build Warranty, UKCW London will feature over 300 leading brands; over 25 trade bodies and associations, including the Federation of Master Builders, CIBSE, and the National Association Of Air Duct-Cleaners UK. Visitors can register for free by visiting: https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2026/cab-campaign. Following the London show in May 2026, UKCW Birmingham will return to the NEC from 29 September to 1 October 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With the workplace continuing to evolve at pace, Workspace Design Show (25-26 February 2026, Business Design Centre, London) brings a powerful programme of thought-filled conversations involving some of the most influential voices in architecture, workplace design, sustainability and occupier strategy. Across four dedicated conference streams, Workspace Design Talks, Sustainability Talks, Occupiers Forum and the FIS Conference, this year’s agenda explores how design, data and sustainability are shaping the future of work, and how organisations can respond with clarity, purpose and impact. Workspace Design Talks: Designing for what’s next The Workspace Design Talks will explore how work is changing and what this means for architecture and design, bringing together leading designers, consultants and thought leaders. One key session, “Work is changing – what does the future hold for architecture and design?”, will be chaired by Mark Eltringham (Workplace Insight) and features insights from Helen Berresford (Sheppard Robson), Collin Burry (Gensler) and Nicola Gillen (Cushman & Wakefield). The panel will examine how shifting work patterns, culture and technology are redefining workplace design. Another standout discussion, “What makes a property ‘right’? How owners, occupiers and designers align”, chaired by Kyle de Bruin (Leesman), brings together perspectives from Elaine Du Preez (Salesforce), Grant Kanik (Foster + Partners), Charlie Kent (Area) and Mel Reeves (The Crown Estate) to explore how collaboration and alignment drive successful workplace outcomes. Sustainability Talks: From biophilia to net zero The Sustainability Talks will focus on how design can support environmental responsibility while enhancing human experience. “Reconnecting design and nature: Purpose, people, and the challenges of biophilia”, chaired by Vanessa Champion (The Journal of Biophilic Design), will explore the realities of implementing biophilic principles, with speakers Nicola Tomkins (Overbury), Lidia Johansen (chapmanbdsp) and Paulo Ribeiro (AECOM). Meanwhile, “Reworking London: How adaptive reuse is powering net zero workplaces” will examine how reuse and retrofit are playing a critical role in decarbonising the built environment. Chaired by Amina Akhtar (Tétris), the session features Hannah Baker (EPR Architects), Kiru Balson (Max Fordham), Jonathan Allwood (Barr Gazetas) and Gregor Haran (Landsec). Occupiers Forum: Evidence-led workplace strategy The Occupiers Forum puts the occupier perspective at the centre of the conversation, focusing on data, change management and workplace performance. In “From data to brief – how evidence is shaping better workplace experience”, chaired by Chris Moriarty (Audiem), speakers Chris Mentiply (Haleon), Kornelia Kiss (Sanofi) and Marc van den Helder (Booking.com) will discuss how insight and analytics are transforming decision-making. “Transforming how we work: Managing change in modern workplace design” will explore the human side of workplace change. Chaired by Jennifer L. Bryan (ABChange Consultancy), the panel includes Oliver Boote (Imperial College London), Paula Rowntree (Lloyds) and Bex Moorhouse (WPP). FIS Conference: Measuring impact and prioritising reuse The FIS Conference will focus on fit-out performance, sustainability and circularity. “Measuring the impact of fit-out”, chaired by Flavie Lowres (FIS), brings together experts Emily Samoluk (British Land), Ella Smith (AHMM) and Beth Jepson (Parkeray) to explore how impact can be quantified and improved. In “Putting reuse first”, chaired by Nikhil Dhumma (JLL), speakers Stuart Cochrane (JLL), Simon Patterson (JLL), Conrad Stone (Cundall) and Will Belfield (Overbury) will discuss practical approaches to embedding reuse and circular economy principles into fit-out projects. With over 150 speakers across the programme, the Workspace Design Show talks offer actionable insight for architects, designers, occupiers, developers and contractors navigating the changing workplace landscape. From strategy and sustainability to performance and people, the 2026 agenda reflects the challenges and opportunities, shaping the future of work. Workspace Design Show takes place at the Business Design Centre, London, bringing together the UK and Europe’s workplace design community for two days of learning, inspiration and connection. Register now to attend the exhibition and view the agendas: workspaceshow.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Proteus Waterproofing has been shortlisted as a Finalist in three major categories at this year’s Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA) Awards, reinforcing its growing influence and technical leadership within the UK liquid waterproofing market. The LRWA Awards recognise excellence, best practice and innovation across the liquid roofing and waterproofing sector. Being shortlisted across multiple categories highlights Proteus Waterproofing’s ability to deliver consistently high-performing solutions across a diverse range of applications, environments and project complexities. Each shortlisted scheme also demonstrates the company’s commitment to robust system design, technical assurance and collaborative working. From large-scale commercial roofing at M&S Putney, to demanding buried Blue Roof System at Welbourne and the technically sensitive waterproofing of public realm water features at Jubilee Park Fountains, these projects highlight the versatility and reliability of Proteus liquid waterproofing systems. “We are absolutely delighted to be shortlisted in three categories at this year’s LRWA Awards.,” said Justin Pitman, Sales Director at Proteus Waterproofing. These projects reflect the strength of our systems, the quality of our technical support and, most importantly, the trusted partnerships we have with Proteus Approved Contractors who share our commitment to getting waterproofing right.” The shortlisting also reflects the company’s wider impact on the liquid waterproofing market. Proteus continues to invest heavily in product development, technical guidance and installer support, helping specifiers and contractors achieve durable, compliant and long-lasting waterproofing solutions for clients. Winners of the LRWA Awards will be announced later this year. The 3 shortlisted projects, delivered in collaboration with trusted contractor partners, are: (MAIN PICTURE) Marks & Spencer (M&S) Putney, with APA Roofing & WaterproofingLiquid Roofing Project of the Year – over 1000m² For more information about Proteus Waterproofing visit www.proteuswaterproofing.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) proudly celebrated the industry’s leading innovators at its annual Awards Gala on Friday evening at the Natural History Museum, recognising 16 Rising Stars and 12 major category winners who raise the bar for responsible, innovative and inclusive construction. From climate champions to community heroes, this year’s winners prove that construction isn’t just about building structures, it’s about building a better future. Highlights from the Winners’ Circle Community Engagement Award (sponsored by Male Allies UK) – Gallaway Construction Gallaway Construction is turning construction into a catalyst for change. Through its Construction for Women programme, the company has empowered over 400 girls and women with hands-on skills and mentoring, while raising tens of thousands for local causes. A true example of how construction can be a force for good. Climate Champion – General Demolition General Demolition is rewriting the demolition playbook with bold circular strategies, recycling hundreds of tonnes of materials and slashing carbon emissions. From Northampton to London, their work sets a new standard for sustainability. Employer of the Year (sponsored by the National Federation of Builders) – John Sisk & Son With leadership programmes, apprenticeships and inclusion initiatives, John Sisk & Son is shaping a workplace where people thrive. Over 3,000 young people supported – proving that the future of construction starts with investing in talent today. Social Value Leader – Christina Nichols, John Sisk & Son Christina Nichols has delivered measurable impact: 3,600+ hours of career support and £54.6 million spent with local supply chains. Her work ensures construction leaves a lasting positive mark. Considerate Client – Marks & Spencer For 18 years, M&S has championed safety, sustainability and respect for communities, influencing contractors and setting the gold standard for client leadership. Supplier Recognition – O’Neil & Brennan (ONB) ONB’s seamless logistics and proactive problem-solving make them an indispensable partner, elevating every project they touch. Excellence in Construction (Large) – McLaughlin & Harvey From carbon monitoring to mental health support, McLaughlin & Harvey delivers excellence on every front. Excellence in Construction (Small) – Harmonix Construction Ltd Harmonix combines community engagement, environmental responsibility and workforce wellbeing – building with care and integrity. Legacy Award – Pevensey Bay Coastal Defence Two decades of protecting communities and managing coastal flood risks across 18,000 properties – a legacy of resilience. Innovation of the Year – Curo Construction AI meets safety: Curo’s real-time monitoring system sets a new benchmark for tech-driven site safety. Icon Award (sponsored by Building a Safer Future) – Luke Hands, Ardmore Group A mental health champion reshaping how construction cares for its people. Rising Stars 16 Rising Stars were celebrated, showcasing the next generation of leaders driving the future of construction: Matthew Barnes (VolkerHighways), Joel Blanchflower (Laing O’Rourke), Liam Cater (Ardmore Group), Nicol High (Octavius), Daniel Hilton (Kier Transportation), Liam Jackson (McLaughlin & Harvey), Megan McDonald (KPH Deconstruction Services), Chris O’Hagan (McLaughlin & Harvey), David Okorhi (Knight Build Limited), Kate Parsons (Kier Transportation), James Preston (McLaren Construction), Kit Robinson (Kier Transportation), Megan Smith (McLaughlin & Harvey), Cian Webb (Clegg Construction), Katie Webster (Kier Construction), Abigail Wilkinson (Sir Robert McAlpine). Champion of Construction (sponsored by Construction Industry Council) – Colin Robinson With 50 years of service, Colin Robinson, Senior Site Manager at GRAHAM Group, has demonstrated leadership and compassion that have transformed lives – from saving a colleague to creating safer spaces for children. Desiree Blamey, Managing Director for Considerate Constructors Scheme, said: “The winners represent the very best of our industry, proving that construction can be innovative, inclusive and a powerful force for good. Their achievements set a standard that inspires us all to build responsibly and leave a lasting positive impact.” The event was supported by our sponsors, with Build Warranty as headline sponsor and Mates in Mind as the evening’s charity partner. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Building Research Establishment (BRE) is now inviting entries for its 2026 BREEAM Awards – a celebration of the projects, people and organisations leading the way in sustainable building design, development, operation and management. This year’s awards introduce eight new categories, reflecting BREEAM’s commitment to recognising forward-thinking approaches to sustainability – from resilience and digital innovation to social value and sustainable cities. The awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday 30 September at the BREEAM-certified Peninsula London hotel, bringing together industry leaders and innovators from across the globe to celebrate the transformative power of buildings in shaping a sustainable future. BREEAM has been the world-leading sustainability assessment method for planning projects, infrastructure and buildings for over 30 years, with over 2.9 million buildings now BREEAM-registered. This year’s award categories are: The 2026 awards will be the first to incorporate BREEAM New Construction Version 7, which introduces an updated framework integrating whole-life carbon, resilience, and biodiversity metrics in line with growing market demand. Industry practitioners across the globe are invited to submit nominations for projects, organisations and individuals that push the boundaries of sustainability and accelerate the transition to net zero. The deadline for submissions is 31 March 2026. Tom Wilson, Director of Building Performance Services at BRE, said: “The 2026 BREEAM Awards introduce new categories that recognise leadership in areas such as climate resilience, digital sustainability, social value, and sustainable cities — where data, technology and community impact are central to delivering measurable outcomes. “By showcasing projects setting new benchmarks in these areas, the awards reaffirm BREEAM’s role in driving innovation across the built environment. “We look forward to seeing entries that demonstrate how organisations are shaping a more sustainable future.” Travel accreditation company ActiveScore will mark its third year as headline sponsor of the awards, with sustainability consultants JWA and agradblue sponsoring the In-Use Performance and Climate Resilience Excellence categories respectively. Further sponsorship opportunities are available. Entries to the BREEAM Awards 2026 can now be made here. Full descriptions of the BREEAM Awards categories are as follows: For further information about the BREEAM Awards 2026, please see here. All BREEAM certifications can enter the awards, including Infrastructure, Communities and New Construction V7. Where relevant, projects must have been certified between 1 January 2025 and 31 March 2026 for a valid entry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, is celebrating a triple win at the Construction Awards of Excellence ceremony held in Birmingham by the National Federation of Builders (NFB), taking home the title spots for three prestigious categories – Rising Star, Innovation in Construction Technology and the Remarkable Heritage and Conservation Project. The awards, held annually by the NFB, celebrate outstanding achievements across the UK construction sector, recognising excellence in construction, innovation, sustainability, collaboration and individual contribution. The Rising Star award recognises emerging talent demonstrating exceptional potential, innovation, and leadership within the construction industry. G F Tomlinson had two shortlisted out of the four finalists, with Amy Kelly and Harry Gilsenan who had been selected from 300 applicants. Amy Kelly was triumphant on the night, standing out for her journey from Technical Trainee to Assistant Site Manager in under six years, showcasing technical skill, environmental responsibility and a commitment to community engagement. Amy has made an impact through mentoring young people, promoting sustainability on-site, and driving improvements in operational efficiency. Her passion for social value and outreach has connected hundreds of local students and residents with live construction projects – including the high-profile Sherwood Observatory scheme. The Innovation in Construction Technology award celebrates projects that use advanced digital tools and modern methods of construction to transform the way the industry delivers. G F Tomlinson received this award for its work on the Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield – a £6.8 million world-class STEM facility that has reimagined a disused Victorian underground reservoir into a cutting-edge educational and community destination. By merging heritage, science, and technology, the contractor delivered a landmark scheme that not only celebrates engineering excellence but also fosters educational opportunities and community pride. The project demonstrated outstanding innovation through its use of 3D laser scanning, Building Information Modelling (BIM), off-site manufacturing and real-time digital engagement tools to achieve precision, quality and sustainability. Stephen Spiegelhalter, G F Tomlinson’s Project Manager for the scheme was on hand to receive this prestigious award. The Remarkable Heritage and Conservation Project award recognises outstanding craftsmanship, sensitivity, and innovation in the preservation and restoration of historically significant sites, and the nominated scheme recognised G F Tomlinson’s exceptional work on the restoration and refurbishment of the Grade II Listed Central Building at the University of Nottingham’s Castle Meadow Campus. A landmark project that has transformed a unique 1990s tensile-roof structure into a modern education and events hub, the restoration involved the sensitive preservation of one of the UK’s youngest listed buildings, including the complex renewal of its 4,500 sq. metre PTFE roof, extensive structural repairs and refinishing of over 900m² of glass and aluminium cladding. Through innovative engineering solutions, collaborative heritage stewardship and a commitment to carbon reduction, the team delivered major programme, cost and sustainability benefits for the university, while breathing new life into a building of significant architectural importance. Lee Roberts, G F Tomlinson Site Manager, who has worked for the company for over 30 years, proudly received the award on behalf of the project team. This triple success reflects G F Tomlinson’s continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and community impact across its diverse project portfolio throughout the region. Andy Sewards, Chairman at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been recognised with three prestigious awards at this year’s Construction Awards of Excellence organised by the NFB. Each win is a testament to the dedication, talent and collaborative spirit of our team. “These accolades celebrate not only our technical excellence but also our purpose to build responsibly, sustainably and with long-lasting benefit for the communities in which we operate.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) and its staff have been recognised with multiple awards in 2025 marking the organisation’s professionalism, forest management, technical expertise, innovation and training. At the recent Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards 2025 – highlighting the best management of woods and forests across Scotland – FLS picked up several awards. The organisation was announced as the winner of the award for a Single Stand, Compartment or Small Wood and the Hunter Blair Trophy for Silvicultural Excellence for its Braeval Forest at Aberfoyle. The work at the forest was carried out by the Direct Production Harvesting Team in Aberfoyle and was a continues cover thinning site which focuses on maintaining canopy cover while creating small gaps to promote natural regeneration. This method enhances timber quality, supports wildlife habitats, and improves structural diversity, contributing to recreational appeal and public use. FLS also shared the Woodland Trust Scotland Trophy for New Native Woods with partner agency Transport Scotland for Rest and Be Thankful in Argyll. More than 400000 native trees with a range of species have been planted to maximise slope stability. This will complement the hard engineering and bring other benefits such as improved water quality and biodiversity. The work of FLS Community Rangers was celebrated as part of a win for West Johnstone Early Learning and Childcare Centre’s outdoor education programme also at Scotland Finest Woods Awards 2025. The FLS team worked with the group to help demonstrate the importance of urban woodlands to local communities. Earlier this year, FLS apprentices triumphed at the Lantra Scotland Awards for Land Based and Aquaculture skills. All four FLS apprentices that were in contention for awards – held during Scottish Apprenticeship Week – were recognised as either winners or runners-up in a variety of categories. Other highlights included several awards for Newton Nursery’s groundbreaking redevelopment. These included UK Project of the Year at the Commissioning Specialists Association (CSA) Gala Awards. The award recognised the transformation of the nursery into the largest and most advanced tree-growing glasshouse in the UK. It also championed the exceptional technical achievement and sustainability credentials required to develop such a major contribution to Scotland’s forestry industry, rural communities and climate ambitions. The nursery redevelopment also won the Project and Programme Management Award at the 2025 Scottish Public Services Awards. FLS’ renewables and regional land management teams played a significant role in North Kyle Wind Farm’s recent success at the Scottish Green Energy Awards 2025. The Sustainable Development Award honoured the collaborative work between land managers and the developer to deliver environmental, social and economic benefits through repurposing a former coalfield area into a thriving landscape for clean energy generation, community benefit, and sustainable growth. FLS Director of Land Management and Regions Graeme Prest said: “The range of awards received by FLS is an acknowledgement of the skills, expertise, dedication and commitment of FLS staff and the qualities they bring to the organisation. “From producing high-value sustainable timber, harnessing the benefits of trees and other habitats to mitigate against climate change and biodiversity loss, being at the forefront of innovation and facilitating renewable energy to training the next generation of foresters, FLS and its staff are leaders in professional and industry standards.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals