UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham has joined forces with the National Retrofit Hub to deliver a dedicated seminar programme on retrofit. Visitors can expect insightful sessions covering topics such as upgrading and decarbonising the nation’s housing stock, driving innovation in retrofit practices, and exploring how retrofitting is an essential strategy
Sussex contractor Pilbeam Construction has been honoured with a prestigious Sussex Heritage Trust Award for its outstanding work on the £7.5 million restoration of Newhaven Fort, funded by UK Government. Pilbeam marked the occasion by presenting a commemorative plaque to Newhaven Fort, which is now proudly displayed on site for
An Ipswich-based construction consultancy is in the running for a national award for its work in delivering the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Newmarket Community Hospital. Castons Artelia has earned a place on the shortlist in the New Build Project of the Year category at the Healthcare Estates Awards
New Government data of fire and rescue service incidents analysed by HETAS for Chimney Fire Safety Week (CFSW), reveals that Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded to 181 chimney fires over the last year, the most out of all counties in England. Dorset and Wiltshire follow in close
SEGRO V-Park Grand Union has become the first industrial and logistics building in the world to achieve WiredScore Platinum certification Located in Park Royal, SEGRO V-Park Grand Union is a six-storey urban logistics development that has been recognised for its outstanding digital infrastructure. Awarded following a rigorous assessment, the WiredScore
Development and asset manager, Canmoor, is delighted to announce that Westway at Glasgow Airport has been shortlisted for Best Overall Scheme (Logistics Park) at the prestigious Industrial Agents Society (IAS) Awards 2025. The recognition places Westway among the UK’s most outstanding industrial and logistics developments. The IAS Awards, regarded as
The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) is proud to reaffirm its ongoing commitment to championing engineering excellence across the pump sector through its highly regarded and long-standing annual awards programme. The 2026 Pump Industry Awards are now open for entries, and the BPMA is calling on the industry to get
MPs across the UK are being urged to support the second Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week as campaigners highlight the urgent need for coordinated action on a widespread housing crisis that costs the NHS over £1.4 billion every year. The week, taking place from 20–26 October, was first
On Thursday 13 November 2025, the UK’s leading voices in fire safety will gather for one of the sector’s most anticipated events – FIRE2025. Taking place at the QEII Centre in London, with the option to join online, this dynamic one-day conference promises to deliver vital insights, foster collaboration, and
Four Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes site managers across several Kent developments including Roman Walk, The Poppies, Saxon Fields and Aylesham Park have won a top national award for the quality homes they are building. Neil Johnson at Roman Walk, Mark Dyson at The Poppies, Sarwar Mohamad at Saxon
UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham has joined forces with the National Retrofit Hub to deliver a dedicated seminar programme on retrofit. Visitors can expect insightful sessions covering topics such as upgrading and decarbonising the nation’s housing stock, driving innovation in retrofit practices, and exploring how retrofitting is an essential strategy in the race to Net Zero. On Day Two (Wednesday 1 October), the focus on the Housing Action Hub turns to retrofit’s role in reducing whole-life carbon emissions and strengthening climate resilience, with expert-led seminars. In addition, a number of other stages at the three day event will feature Retrofit focused talks and seminars. Once again, UKCW Birmingham will place itself at the heart of this critical national conversation. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, UKCW Birmingham (30 September – 2 October, NEC) returns under the theme “where decisions are made.” Across three days, visitors will experience an unmissable line-up of big-name speakers, CPD-accredited talks, live demonstrations, product launches, technical workshops, and unrivalled networking opportunities. The programme of talks on retrofit includes: Main Stage Wednesday October 1st, 10.30am Retrofit Revolution: Meeting Citizen Demand for Warmer, Greener Homes At this session, you’ll learn about the latest research and insights on what drives demand for retrofit and decarbonisation. We’ll discuss the critical role householders play in enabling the transformation to low-carbon, low-cost, healthy homes, and how we all can better work with citizens to increase uptake and grow the retrofit sector. Speakers: Housing Action Hub Wednesday October 1st, 12.15pm Enabling Retrofit Innovation : RetroNetZero This seminar will present tools and resources published by the project that can help innovators and specifiers alike. We’ll explore regulatory pathways, discuss where innovators need to go to test and demonstrate their solutions and consider how regulation can better realise the health co-benefits of retrofit. Speakers: Wednesday October 1st, 1.15pm Retrofit Connect: Birmingham & Stoke Update on Street Demos A panel of experts will showcase pioneering stories from the Retrofit Connect programme – part of the National Retrofit Hub’s strategy to enable equitable, locally led retrofit at scale. Speakers: Wednesday October 1st, 2.15pm Retrofit and Whole Life Carbon: What’s the Consensus? The UKCW panel dives into practical strategies for transforming existing structures into climate-resilient, low-carbon assets—from smart energy upgrades to sustainable materials. Join experts to explore how retrofitting can drive environmental impact, meet rising tenant demands, and future-proof the built environment. Speakers: Net Zero Hub Wednesday October 1st, 2pm Building a Sustainable Future: Retrofitting for Climate Resilience This session will bring together those behind some of the big standards, campaigns and solutions for reducing whole life carbon emissions, particularly in the retention and retrofit of existing buildings. The conversation will be far-reaching and consider policy, materiality, economics, and community needs. Speakers: To help attendees get the most out of the show, UK Construction Week has launched its handy web-based app. Visitors can quickly build a personalised itinerary of talks, book meetings and navigate the floorplan, including viewing the Net Zero Trail, all from the palm of their hand. Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director, Construction, commented: “Retrofitting buildings has never been a more crucial part of construction and the pursuit of Net Zero, hence why we’re dedicating so many hours of UKCW seminars to discuss and dissect this important topic.” Alongside over 300 leading brands from around the world, UKCW Birmingham will feature 200 speakers and over 150 hours of seminars and talks across five stages – all of which are CPD accredited. Visitors will also be able to hear from a stellar line-up of speakers across the Culture Change & Skills Hub, Net Zero Hub, Housing Action Hub, and Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub. Visitors to UKCW can also elevate their experience with an exclusive VIP Pass for just £99 per day. The pass allows VIP guests to skip the queues with fast-track entry, relax in the exclusive VIP Lounge with complimentary coffee, a range of alcoholic and soft drinks, and a dedicated Wi-Fi network throughout the day. Free parking at the venue is also included in the purchase of the ticket. To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-birmingham-2025/cab-pr To download the show app, visit https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/ukcw-app. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sussex contractor Pilbeam Construction has been honoured with a prestigious Sussex Heritage Trust Award for its outstanding work on the £7.5 million restoration of Newhaven Fort, funded by UK Government. Pilbeam marked the occasion by presenting a commemorative plaque to Newhaven Fort, which is now proudly displayed on site for visitors to see. The 12-month project, delivered in close collaboration with Historic England, transformed the Scheduled Monument into a vibrant visitor destination to attract wider audiences. Andrew Arrow, director of Pilbeam Construction, said: “We’re incredibly proud to receive this award in the Public and Community category recognising the restoration of Newhaven Fort, which was a complex and rewarding project. “It required careful liaison with Historic England and with multiple specialist contractors. “Since the Fort reopened this year, we hear it is now so popular at weekends and during the holidays that visitors are being advised to book in advance.” Pilbeam’s specialist team, which has extensive experience in restoring heritage buildings, tackled serious damp issues, restored 18 casemates (vaults), and upgraded facilities to create welcoming exhibition and event spaces. The project involved more than 30 different elements, including removing 300 cubic metres of soil to install drainage and prevent water ingress, repointing and masonry repairs to casemate frontages, recladding the Romney Hut to create a flexible event space and repairing WWII gun emplacements and canopies. Accessibility improvements and upgrades to handrails and edge protection were also completed, along with specialist concrete and steelwork repairs using hydro demolition and sprayed concrete techniques. Pilbeam’s site manager Simon Hepworth, a Newhaven resident, brought local insight and personal passion to the project. Two of the restored casemates are now available for venue hire, helping the site expand its appeal beyond military history enthusiasts. Duncan Kerr, chief executive at Wave Active, which operates Newhaven Fort, on behalf of Lewes District Council said: “This award is a testament to the incredible work carried out by Pilbeam and the wider team. Their efforts have safeguarded a vital community asset and helped put Newhaven on the map as a heritage destination.” Project partners included Pritchard Architecture, HOP Consulting, IWA M&E Consulting Engineers, MEA and many others, who worked together to preserve and enhance the fort for future generations. Ryan Stock from heritage specialists Pritchard Architecture added: “We’re so proud our work has secured this prestigious award. “The project broke new ground in the preservation of fortifications, setting a precedent that has since inspired similar efforts by other organisations and our radical interventions will secure the future of the fort for future generations.” The Sussex Heritage Trust Awards have been running for nearly 30 years and are designed to recognise and reward the highest quality conservation, restoration and design of newly built projects, while encouraging the use of traditional skills and crafts. Councillor Johnny Denis, cabinet member for arts, culture and tourism and leisure at Lewes District Council said: “With its rich history, Newhaven Fort is a unique local landmark and through this extensive preservation work, many of its key features have been safeguarded for the future. I am delighted that the project has been recognised with this award, which is testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.” For further information visit: www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An Ipswich-based construction consultancy is in the running for a national award for its work in delivering the new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) at Newmarket Community Hospital. Castons Artelia has earned a place on the shortlist in the New Build Project of the Year category at the Healthcare Estates Awards after project managing and quantity surveying for the centre’s construction last year in collaboration with partners KLH Architects, JSH, Morgan Sindall, Sweco and the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (WSFT) The CDC has proven an instant success for WSFT, seeing more than 6,000 patients and completing almost 8,900 examinations in its first 100 days alone. Adam Fuller, Senior Project Surveyor at Castons, said: “We are thrilled to have been shortlisted for such a prestigious award. “The Newmarket Hospital CDC is a project we are truly proud of, bringing together our local partners to deliver a healthcare facility that is already making waves in the way it is revolutionising community healthcare. “Of course we are hoping for a win – but regardless, the real winners are the people living in and around Newmarket who now have access to first-class diagnostic facilities right on their doorstep, delivered by their incredible local NHS teams.” The CDC uses equipment at the forefront of technology to provide the highest quality care while tackling waiting times and optimising patient experience. Features include MRI, CT, X-ray and ultrasound scanners, alongside equipment to provide both heart and lung scans. For MRI patients specifically, the centre helped reduce the Trust’s waiting list by 37% in just six months. Nicola Booth, Head of Estates and Development at WSFT, said: “We are delighted that our new Community Diagnostics Centre has been nominated for this award. “It is thanks to the hard work and collaborative efforts of everyone involved that we were able to deliver this project on time, under budget, exceeding exceptional carbon reduction targets in the design and construction. “We are seeing that this facility is making a real difference, and has helped us improve waiting times and ensure patients get the care they need much more quickly, in a high quality, modern facility.” Hosted every year, the Healthcare Estates Awards recognise excellence in the delivery of healthcare facilities, awarding businesses for their work which showcase originality, innovation and quality. Representatives from Castons Artelia will join their fellow shortlisted businesses at the awards ceremony in Manchester on October 21. More information on Castons Artelia and its services can be found at www.castons.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New Government data of fire and rescue service incidents analysed by HETAS for Chimney Fire Safety Week (CFSW), reveals that Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded to 181 chimney fires over the last year, the most out of all counties in England. Dorset and Wiltshire follow in close second with a combined 113 chimney fires; Hereford and Worcester are third with a combined 95; North Yorkshire follows in fourth with 90; and Norfolk fifth with 86 chimney fires reported between April 2024 and March 2025. During this period, there were 2,019 chimney fires in England, 5% less than the year before and accounting for 0.33% of the total fires in the country. While chimney fires are steadily decreasing, recent data shows that more than 1.5 million stoves are currently installed across just over 60% of UK households – a number which is steadily increasing. The Government fire statistics, reviewed by HETAS as part of the not-for-profit organisation’s annual CFSW – a national campaign in partnership with the Government’s Fire Kills campaign, Industry, and fire and rescue services to promote positive safety messages to consumers – align with HETAS’ own national research into consumer burning habits. Also released today, HETAS’ data delves into the potential causes of chimney fires throughout the UK. It found that across all 88 counties surveyed in the UK, nearly 1 in 10 wood-burning stove owners leave it two or more years to sweep their chimney or never get it swept at all, whilst a fifth have either never serviced their appliance or are unsure if they have. Calvin May, Head of Technical & Certification at HETAS, said: “Our latest data reveals some interesting insights into the potential causes of these chimney fires, reiterating the need for our annual awareness campaign; we even discovered that some stove owners weren’t aware their appliance needs regular, ongoing maintenance. Regularly servicing your solid fuel appliance and sweeping your chimney is essential to help reduce these annual chimney fire figures even further. “No matter what type of chimney you have or whether it is lined or not, wood-burning stove owners are advised by industry to have their chimneys swept twice a year if they burn wood, and at least once every 12 months if using smokeless fuels. Appliances should be installed by a competent professional and serviced annually, using a HETAS registered servicing engineer for continued safety and compliance. “If a chimney isn’t regularly swept then a sticky, tar-like substance called creosote builds up on the inner walls of the chimney flue – building much more rapidly if the appliance is poorly maintained or the wood isn’t properly seasoned – which can ignite and cause a chimney fire to rapidly spread.” Jon Quinn, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Home Safety Committee said: “Chimney Fire Safety Week is an important reminder that regular sweeping and maintenance are essential in reducing the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. “The National Fire Chiefs Council also urge households to fit and test smoke alarms as they provide early warning of a fire and save lives. We also recommend installing a carbon monoxide alarm to alert you to poisonous leaks. Smoke and Carbon monoxide alarms should be tested at least once a month to make sure they are working. By taking these simple steps, families can stay warm and safe as we move into the colder months.” Dr Nicki Harvey founder of Dr Sweep, a chimney and stove service company based in the West Midlands, who also suffered from CO poisoning from a faulty gas fire in her first home, also adds: “It’s so important to get your chimney and your appliance checked and swept regularly, and to test your smoke and CO alarm. By doing so, the stove will work better and more efficiently, it will be cleaner, and most importantly, it will be safer for you and your family. “An experienced sweep can offer advice on how best to burn fuel or to use your stove controls. They can also spot and fix any issues early on, giving you peace of mind when using and enjoying your stove.” HETAS’ findings revealed that a small percentage of consumers, over 1 in 10, either do not check if their fuel is certified ‘Ready to Burn’ or only check sometimes. Furthermore, 1 in 5 stove users nationally reported growing their own wood rather than buying it in person or online, with a small number (4%) of respondents voicing concerns around the cost of living. Calvin continues: “With the recent energy price cap increase announced by Ofgem, homeowners are continuing to look for cost-effective ways to heat their homes, but when buying fuel for your stove you must remember to prioritise the safety of your home. “In England, there are strict government regulations that any wood sold in volumes under 2m³ must be certified as ‘Ready to Burn’, meaning it has a moisture content of 20% or less and that Manufactured Solid Fuels contain less than 2% sulphur content. “Both are critical to ensure that these fuels burn efficiently, safely and cleanly – both for the environment and stove users. This not only benefits the lifespan of your appliance but also reduces the risk of chimney fires when burned in a sufficiently maintained stove and alongside a regularly swept chimney.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SEGRO V-Park Grand Union has become the first industrial and logistics building in the world to achieve WiredScore Platinum certification Located in Park Royal, SEGRO V-Park Grand Union is a six-storey urban logistics development that has been recognised for its outstanding digital infrastructure. Awarded following a rigorous assessment, the WiredScore Platinum rating, reflects the building’s high-speed fibre connectivity, strong mobile signal, secure telecoms spaces and future-ready features such as rooftop installation capacity and AV-enabled meeting rooms. It also incorporates sustainability-focused technology like EV charging stations and real-time energy monitoring. The building scored an impressive 91 out of 100, placing it among the best-connected industrial spaces in the UK. Hand in hand with this recognition, SEGRO has achieved Platinum Partner status within the global BCS partner network. This reflects the company’s continued investment in digital expertise and the professionalisation of its Digital function across the organisation. Fewer than 75 organisations worldwide have earned this distinction and SEGRO is the only property company to have reached this level of excellence. Rich Corbridge, Chief Information Officer, at SEGRO, said: “The WiredScore Platinum certification at SEGRO V-Park Grand Union is a powerful recognition of the investments we’re making in digital excellence, ensuring our spaces are not only future-ready but also deliver exceptional connectivity for our customers. “Alongside this, we have also become the first commercial property company to be recognised by the BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, as a Platinum status partner. These achievements, both ‘platinum firsts’, underline our commitment to digital transformation, sustainability and supporting our colleagues with professional development opportunities that keep SEGRO at the forefront of the industry.” William Newton, CEO, WiredScore said: “Industrial and logistics real estate is undergoing a transformation and at WiredScore, our mission is to accelerate that evolution by setting the global benchmark for digital connectivity and future-readiness. With SEGRO, we’ve found a partner that shares that vision; investing in technology and infrastructure that ensure industrial spaces can meet the demands of modern commerce and urban living. “Achieving WiredScore Platinum at SEGRO V-Park Grand Union is not just a world first for industrial real estate, but a signal of SEGRO’s leadership. The building’s integrated approach to connectivity and sustainability demonstrates what best-in-class looks like.” About SEGRO SEGRO is a UK Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), listed on the London Stock Exchange and Euronext Paris, and is a leading owner, manager and developer of modern warehouses, industrial property and data centres. It owns or manages 10.8 million square metres of space (116 million square feet) valued at £21.4 billion serving customers from a wide range of industry sectors. Its properties are located in and around major cities and at key transportation hubs in the UK and in seven other European countries. For over 100 years SEGRO has been creating the space that enables extraordinary things to happen. From modern big box warehouses, used primarily for regional, national and international distribution hubs, to urban warehousing, located close to major population centres and business districts, it provides high-quality assets that allow its customers to thrive. A commitment to be a force for societal and environmental good is integral to SEGRO’s purpose and strategy. Its Responsible SEGRO framework focuses on three long-term priorities where the company believes it can make the greatest impact: Championing low-carbon growth, Investing in local communities and environments and Nurturing talent. Striving for the highest standards of innovation, sustainable business practices and enabling economic and societal prosperity underpins SEGRO’s ambition to be the best property company. See www.SEGRO.com for further information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Development and asset manager, Canmoor, is delighted to announce that Westway at Glasgow Airport has been shortlisted for Best Overall Scheme (Logistics Park) at the prestigious Industrial Agents Society (IAS) Awards 2025. The recognition places Westway among the UK’s most outstanding industrial and logistics developments. The IAS Awards, regarded as one of the most respected accolades in the property sector, celebrate excellence in industrial and logistics real estate. Being shortlisted reflects the quality, vision and positive impact that Westway has delivered to both occupiers and the wider community. In particular, the shortlisting recognises Canmoor’s ambitious speculative development programme, which has delivered 300,000 sq ft of high-quality, sustainable industrial space to the Scottish market. This includes the successful completion and pre-letting of two flagship units within the park: Westway 90, now home to sustainable packaging innovator Pulpex, and Westway 200, secured by the UK Government. Designed and built with sustainability at their core, both buildings embody sustainable design, earning BREEAM “Excellent” and EPC “A” ratings. The facilities are all-electric capable and include electric vehicle charging stations, photovoltaic panels, and air source heat pumps. Key amenities include dedicated car parking, HGV parking and extensive yard space, all within Westway’s 24/7 fully secure environment. Gregor King, Scottish Director of Canmoor said: “We are delighted that Westway has been recognised on a national stage. This shortlisting in recognition of Westway 90 and Westway 200 is a testament to our commitment to delivering ‘best in class’, sustainable logistics space on a speculative basis. “Securing Pulpex and the UK Government as occupiers demonstrates both the park’s appeal and the importance of our role in supporting innovation and public sector operations.” The winners of the IAS Awards will be announced at a ceremony in London on Wednesday 24 September. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) is proud to reaffirm its ongoing commitment to championing engineering excellence across the pump sector through its highly regarded and long-standing annual awards programme. The 2026 Pump Industry Awards are now open for entries, and the BPMA is calling on the industry to get involved and celebrate the innovations, individuals, and initiatives that continue to power this vital sector. Set to take place on Thursday 19th March 2026 at the prestigious Hilton at St. George’s Park, Burton upon Trent, the gala awards evening will once again provide a unique platform to recognise, reward, and promote the outstanding achievements that continue to shape the UK pump industry. With a strong heritage of acknowledging technical excellence, sustainability, innovation, and service, the Pump Industry Awards programme plays a key role in supporting professional recognition while delivering superb promotional value for all participating companies and individuals. Shortlisted entries and winners alike benefit from high-profile exposure before, during, and after the event—across trade media, online platforms, and through sector-wide engagement. Entries Now Open – Don’t Miss the Deadline If you, your team, your company, or your innovations have made a difference in the pump industry over the past 18 months, now is the time to step forward. The entry deadline is Friday 28th November 2025, and submitting a nomination is a clear statement of pride in your work and a strategic opportunity to raise your industry profile. The online entry forms are available at www.pumpindustryawards.com and are designed to make the process simple and accessible. Submissions should relate to activities and achievements within the 18-month period leading up to the deadline. Award Categories Include: Product of the Year – Sponsored by Plant & Works Engineering 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 (<£3M & >£3M) – Sponsored by Calpeda & Caprari Supplier of the Year – Sponsored by Wilo Contribution to Skills & Training – Sponsored by ABB Rising Star Award – Sponsored by Innomotics Sustainable Contribution for a Better World – Sponsored by AESSEAL The BPMA is once again honoured to have the continued support of leading industry names, who understand the importance of recognising excellence across this essential sector. Additional thanks go to Brook Crompton for sponsoring the Drinks Reception, and to Apex Pumps for supporting the always-popular Survivors Breakfast. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for companies looking to align themselves with the very best in pump engineering and innovation. Wayne Rose, Director and CEO of the BPMA, commented: “Pumps and related systems underpin so many of the essential services we all rely on—from water and energy to food production and transportation. The BPMA is proud to support an awards programme that celebrates the expertise, creativity, and dedication driving this crucial sector forward. I strongly encourage all those involved in the pump industry to submit their entries and help showcase the best of our profession.” For more information on the 2026 Pump Industry Awards, including how to enter or become a sponsor, please visit www.pumpindustryawards.com or contact Event Director, Andrew Castle, on 07785 290034 or via andrew@touchwavemedia.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MPs across the UK are being urged to support the second Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week as campaigners highlight the urgent need for coordinated action on a widespread housing crisis that costs the NHS over £1.4 billion every year. The week, taking place from 20–26 October, was first launched in 2024 to shine a spotlight on the devastating health and housing consequences of damp and mould – an issue affecting up to 6.5 million households in England alone. Last year’s inaugural campaign brought together housing providers, charities, health professionals and tenants, reaching over three million people through national press, radio and TV – and even received a note of commendation from King Charles III. This year’s campaign gains added urgency as Awaab’s Law comes into effect, requiring social landlords to fix reported health hazards like damp and mould within strict legal timeframes. The law, named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died from prolonged exposure to mould in his home, aims to ensure tenants can hold landlords accountable through the courts if their homes remain unsafe. Campaign organisers at home safety specialist Aico are now calling on MPs to show their support, raise awareness in their constituencies, and encourage local stakeholders to take part in this vital public health initiative. They have written directly to MPs across the UK, urging them to play an active role in addressing unsafe housing conditions in their local areas. Dr Sam Collier, Policy & Research Manager at Aico, said: “We launched this campaign in response to a glaring gap – there was no single, coordinated platform dedicated to addressing one of the most prevalent and dangerous issues in UK housing. We wanted to change that. “Damp and mould doesn’t just damage buildings – it damages lives. From asthma and respiratory issues to mental health problems, the effects are serious and far-reaching. That’s why this campaign is so important – and why we’re asking MPs from across all parties to stand with us and make it a priority. “MPs are uniquely placed to amplify this issue and influence real change. By supporting this campaign, they can help bring landlords, local authorities, health services and tenants together to tackle it head-on.” This year’s campaign will include a range of free webinars, thought leadership articles, downloadable resources and digital content designed to help educate and empower professionals and residents alike. Aico has also developed a comprehensive campaign toolkit filled with resources to help housing providers, local authorities, charities and community groups get involved and show their support. Damp and mould produce allergens, irritants, mould spores, and other toxins that are harmful to health. The NHS spends an estimated £1.4 billion a year on treating illnesses associated with living in cold or damp housing. When wider societal costs such as ongoing healthcare are taken into consideration, the figure leaps to £15.4 billion. “We want this to be a truly collaborative effort – one that grows stronger each year until no family has to live with the fear or reality of unsafe housing,” Dr Collier added. For more information about the campaign and how to get involved, visit www.aico.co.uk/damp-mould-action-and-awareness-week Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
On Thursday 13 November 2025, the UK’s leading voices in fire safety will gather for one of the sector’s most anticipated events – FIRE2025. Taking place at the QEII Centre in London, with the option to join online, this dynamic one-day conference promises to deliver vital insights, foster collaboration, and provide actionable solutions for an industry that continues to evolve at pace. Developed in partnership by the Fire Protection Association (FPA), Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the Fire Sector Confederation (FSC), FIRE2025 will bring together over 400 professionals from across the fire, construction, insurance, risk management, local authority, and property sectors. With legislative changes, sustainability requirements, and the push for ever higher safety standards shaping the built environment, FIRE2025 offers an opportunity to hear from industry experts at the forefront of these developments. A full programme of keynote presentations, seminars, and breakout sessions will explore how organisations can meet building safety expectations, adapt to new regulations, and embrace innovation in fire safety technologies. Why Attend?Beyond the speaker sessions, FIRE2025 is designed to be a hub for high-quality networking. Delegates will have the opportunity to connect with peers and suppliers during the dedicated exhibition periods – covering registration, breaks, lunch, and the informal evening drinks reception. Exhibitors will showcase the latest products, services, and solutions, providing hands-on demonstrations and in-depth advice. For professionals seeking to enhance their expertise, the conference offers six hours of IFE-accredited CPD, ensuring attendees not only gain insights but also tangible career benefits. Who Will You Meet?The event attracts a broad and influential audience – from chief fire officers, directors, and chartered building surveyors to fire engineers, risk managers, insurers, architects, and consultants. Whether you’re looking to connect with decision-makers, share best practice, or explore potential collaborations, FIRE2025 brings together the right people in the right setting. A Hybrid ExperienceWith both in-person and online options, FIRE2025 is accessible to professionals across the UK and beyond. The hybrid format ensures those unable to attend in London can still benefit from the knowledge, networking, and exposure the event offers. Be Part of ItWhether you attend as a delegate, showcase your solutions as an exhibitor, or take advantage of the exclusive partnership opportunities, FIRE2025 is a must-attend date in the fire safety calendar. It’s where strategic thinking meets practical application – and where the industry comes together to influence the future of fire protection. For further details, visit fireconference2025.eventbrite.co.uk or contact the event team at events@thefpa.co.uk. Also, to see the Event PDF with further details, please click the below button. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Four Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes site managers across several Kent developments including Roman Walk, The Poppies, Saxon Fields and Aylesham Park have won a top national award for the quality homes they are building. Neil Johnson at Roman Walk, Mark Dyson at The Poppies, Sarwar Mohamad at Saxon Fields and Mark Fairman at Aylesham Park have won a Pride in the Job Award from the National House Building Council (NHBC). Now in its 45th year the awards are widely considered the ‘Oscars’ of the homebuilding industry, showcasing the highest standard of building homes. In total there have been 115 Pride in the Job Quality Achievements awarded to Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes site managers, which marks the 21st year in a row that the housebuilder has won more than anyone else. This achievement underlines just how important Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes sees building high quality homes for its customers. The award acknowledges the very best site managers across the country based on their technical expertise, health and safety, consistency, leadership and attention to detail. Each site manager is celebrated for their role in ensuring new homes are delivered on time, on safe sites and to the highest standards. Natalie Perry, Sales & Marketing Director at Barratt David Wilson Kent, commented: “It is fantastic that as a region we have received a high rate of Pride in the Job awards. It goes to show the high quality standards of our homes and the site team that works to provide them. Our division can feel proud that we have contributed to yet another win for the housebuilder, taking first place once again for the 21st year in a row.” The awards closely follow Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes being awarded 5-stars by its customers for satisfaction in the annual Home Builders Federation (HBF) new homes survey. This is the 16th year in a row that Barratt Homes and David Wilson customers have rated it as a 5-star housebuilder, with more than 90% of its customers saying they would recommend it to a friend. Barratt David Wilson Kent is selling a selection of three- and four-bedroom homes at Roman Walk, Saxon Fields, The Poppies and Aylesham Park, with prices starting from £307,995. To find out more about Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, visit www.barratthomes.co.uk / www.dwh.co.uk or call 0333 355 8502 / 0333 3558 503. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals