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Construction key to building sustainable Wales' – Jeremy Miles

‘Construction key to building sustainable Wales’ – Jeremy Miles

Wales will need an additional 11,000 construction workers to support its growing economy, the Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, tells a Construction Summit in Llandudno Junction. Speaking to delegates from the North Wales construction sector, Jeremy Miles emphasised the importance of the private and public sectors

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Prestigious award for Together Housing’s net zero drive

Prestigious award for Together Housing’s net zero drive

Together Housing has been named ‘housing association of the year’ at the Yorkshire and Humberside Energy Efficiency Awards 2024. The award reflects the social housing landlord’s ambitious plan to move over 30,000 of its homes across Yorkshire and Lancashire away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and lead the way

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Nordic Semiconductor recognized for milestone in greenhouse gas emission reduction targets

Nordic Semiconductor recognised for milestone in greenhouse gas emission reduction targets

The Science Based Targets Initiative officially validates Nordic’s ambitious emission reduction targets. Nordic Semiconductor, a leading provider of low power wireless IoT connectivity solutions, today announces that its ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). In its validation letter, the

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Survey: Green skills gap threatens UK's sustainability goals

Survey: Green skills gap threatens UK’s sustainability goals

A new survey from the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), The Environmental Services Association (ESA), Groundwork, and ESS Expo (Environmental Services and Solutions Expo), has revealed a significant green skills gap, with 58% of respondents feeling UK businesses are unprepared for the transition to a sustainable future. Findings from

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Former Leicester velodrome site prepping for low-carbon homes

Former Leicester velodrome site prepping for low-carbon homes 

LEADING housing developer Lovell Partnerships has been awarded a contract by Leicester City Council, which will bring forward 38 new low-carbon and energy efficient homes on the site of the city’s former velodrome.    The vital brownfield regeneration plans will bring this derelict land back into use, with support from the

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Latest Issue

BDC 319 : Aug 2024

Business : Sustainability & Net-Zero News

Net Zero Week 2024: How Coventry University Group is delivering innovative solutions to net zero carbon challenges

Net Zero Week 2024: How Coventry University Group is delivering innovative solutions to net zero carbon challenges

The UK faces several challenges in achieving its net zero ambitions by 2050. Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), Carl Perrin, highlights three of them and what we, at Coventry University Group, are doing to ensure a cleaner tomorrow.  The UK is committed to achieving net zero carbon by 2050. This statement has been echoed repeatedly in recent years, yet there remain several serious challenges to this ambitious mission.  To mark Net Zero Week and with a new Labour government coming into power, it seemed an appropriate time to explore some of these challenges and discuss how Sir Keir Starmer might go about addressing them in the months and years to come.  The first is centred around energy and technology uncertainty. Concerns remain about the role of key energy alternatives like hydrogen. There are doubts around the removal of greenhouse gases and carbon leakage, and the pathway to net zero has been scrutinised with questions persisting over the mix of technologies and energy sources required to achieve it.  Through our research into green battery technology, hydrogen power and future transport we are committed to working with partners to ease this uncertainty and deliver solutions to complex environmental concerns. Research is just one side of the coin, however, and we must continue to build partnerships in education, industry and policy to develop a positive narrative around green energy and emerging technologies.  Net zero strategy The UK emissions trading scheme (EMS) is central to the net zero strategy but addressing carbon leakage remains a challenge. Policies like the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) or a Mandatory Product Standard would certainly be a step in the right direction. They would help ensure the UK not only has optimal environmental policies for decarbonisation but is also putting in place preventive measures to ensure these emissions are not shifted elsewhere.  These are steps we are taking within our university group through our Decarbonisation Strategy. As a document, this informs our net zero carbon response by not only providing a route map to reducing emission but also placing targets on our Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions in the years to come.  Finally, to reach net zero carbon, electricity will have to get cleaner and there will need to be a lot more of it. Electricity demand is expected to rise as more systems including cars, buses and, in some circumstances heating, will be running on electrical power.  Greenpower Park Located at the heart of the UK’s manufacturing industry, the Greenpower Park is a trailblazing centre of excellence for electrification, battery technology and manufacturing, and represents a perfect example of what must become the norm if we are to produce and deliver cleaner, more efficient electricity.  As a university group, we’re incredibly proud to be directly involved in this ground-breaking location which seeks to foster the UK’s growing battery ecosystem by offering an all-in-one solution for battery research, industrialisation, manufacturing, testing, recycling and electrified logistics.  Researchers at Coventry University Group are attempting to meet these three major challenges head on at a national and international level, helping communities and habitats to regenerate themselves by engaging with citizens, with businesses and with technology. Our commitment to creating better futures for the communities around us is at the heart of much that we do and it is imperative that we, along with our partners in academia, industry and government continue to address these issues and deliver innovative solutions for a cleaner tomorrow. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Comments from Claire Petricca-Riding, Head of Planning & Environment at Irwin Mitchell

What can we expect from a new Labour government in the World of Housing, Planning and Environment…

Comments from Claire Petricca-Riding, Head of Planning & Environment at Irwin Mitchell Planning: We expect there to be immediate changes to the planning system which will allow for some flexibility at an early stage in the first year.  This includes changes to the NPPF and NPPG.  We expect to see the re-introduction to mandatory housing targets which will enable confidence in the market and contribute to the 1.5 million homes which are said to be developed in the next parliament. There will be amendments to the green belt policy which could see the easing of VSC and exceptional circumstances requirements for those areas which were previous developed and considered the “grey belt.” It is hoped there will be additional funding for local planning authorities to bring forward local plans and developments – funding more planning officers to unlock the current constraints in the planning system. Long term there could be a reintroduction of regional spatial planning  – whether this be at a broad regional level (North West, North East, Midlands etc as before) or the introduction of combined authorities where plans will incorporate development on a county wide level. In the immediate term there are a significant number of infrastructure and renewable energy schemes which are awaiting approval from the secretary of state – these would be easy wins for the SoS for DNEZ (assuming this will still be Ed Miliband) given his ambition for the England and the whole of the UK to be a global leader in achieving net zero and mitigating the effects of climate change. Environment: There will be a lot of focus on environmental issues with the introduction of GB Energy – providing clean renewable energy as a way of providing energy security for all for decades to come.  There should be the removal of the current moratorium for onshore wind in England  – paving the way for this sector to realise its potential once again.  There too will be a relaxed approach to nuclear energy but a hardening of old and gas with no new oil and gas licences in the medium to long term. There will be a fresh look at the Environment Act 2021 and how the UK and business can meet the desired targets – especially on air quality and waste management – focusing on the circular economy to prevent and re-use waste materials. There will be more focus on habitat protection and making ELM’s work for both the agricultural sector and the environment. It is also clear that there will be a review of the water industry and whilst many would like to see this sector once again nationalised, in the short-term holding water companies to account and reducing pollution incidents are stated goals. Conclusion “What I want to see is properly funded local planning authorities and the Environment Agency so they can function correctly.  Planning fees should be ring fenced for the planning department with any surplus going back to the funds of that council (currently they are not so they go directly to the central funds).  I also want some pace over perfection – we could have some easy wins which help the sector, but we should have continuous improvements instead of delayed perfection – this is what is required to get Britain building again. All improvements should have climate change and sustainability at the heart of those decisions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Sheffield apartment scheme delivered by Clegg Construction wins an Energy Efficiency Award

Sheffield apartment scheme delivered by Clegg Construction wins an Energy Efficiency Award

A £28.7m, 11-storey apartment scheme delivered by Clegg Construction in Sheffield has won an award at the Yorkshire Energy Efficiency Awards. The Ironworks took the title of Regional New Build Project of the Year at the awards ceremony, held in Leeds. Featuring 229 one and two-bedroom apartments, the scheme includes a range of sustainability features such as a biomass energy centre providing hot water and heating throughout the building, with the intention to connect to the city’s district heating system in due course and use hot water from energy generated from the city’s Energy-from-Waste (EfW) plant. Each apartment has a central thermostat that is linked to an app on the resident’s phone, allowing the heating to be carefully and remotely controlled. The flow rates and temperature of water going into and leaving every apartment are monitored daily and a monthly report provides data on areas where the efficiency of the system can be improved. Completed by Clegg Construction last year for Rise Homes, the scheme also includes flow rate restrictors, electric vehicle charging, Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR), bat boxes, and automatic light movement sensors. Michael Sims, managing director at Clegg Construction, said: “The Ironworks was a fantastic project to deliver for Rise Homes and we are delighted that it has been named as Regional New Build Project of the Year at the Yorkshire Energy Efficiency Awards. “It is truly deserving of this title, as the development includes an array of sustainability features which are helping to reduce impact on the environment and enable residents to live in a greener, more environmentally friendly, way. Congratulations to all involved in delivering The Ironworks, and to all those who won Yorkshire Energy Efficiency Awards at the recent awards ceremony.” The Ironworks has also been shortlisted for an Insider Property Dinner South Yorkshire award, having been named a finalist in the Sustainable Development of the Year Award. Nigel Rawlings, CEO of Rise Homes, said: “The Ironworks is an attractive private rented scheme that Sheffield, and everyone involved in delivering it, can be very proud of. For it to now win the title of Regional New Build Project of the Year at the Yorkshire Energy Efficiency Awards is a brilliant accomplishment and a great endorsement of our commitment to sustainability.” Clegg Construction is a Midlands, East Anglia, and Yorkshire-based construction firm specialising in the delivery of public and private sector projects. The company works with organisations of all sizes and specialities across a range of different sectors. For more information visit www.cleggconstruction.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Koba checks into Manchester with pioneering Material Passports– a vital tool in the step towards a more sustainable future for offices

Koba checks into Manchester with pioneering Material Passports– a vital tool in the step towards a more sustainable future for offices

New flex provider Koba has recently announced its official entry into the UK flex market with the launch of its first venture, Koba @ 100 Barbirolli Square, in Manchester City Centre.    We hear from Strategy and Sustainability Director Rob Stewart about an initiative the company has introduced to push the boundaries of sustainable practice and help transform the construction industry’s ability to reuse and repurpose materials via the pioneering Materials Passports system.  Moving away from the construction sector’s throw away culture, we have taken the innovative approach to sustainability through the groundbreaking use of material passports in our sites.  The future of work is not just about innovative spaces, but evidence-based, sustainable practices that redefine our relationship with the environment. Material passports are one of the latest original concepts we will be implementing later this year following the opening of our first flagship flex site in Manchester – Koba @ 100 Barbirolli Square – where our sustainability manifesto will be realised.  They enable the circular reuse of materials and a design that minimises the environmental impact during a building’s construction and its operation. This in turn helps address the challenges of the climate emergency and advance the sector towards its net zero targets. The key to the efficient reuse of structural elements of a building, material passports work much like your own passport, a digital ID that follows the material and stores information on the travels it has made.  It contains all the information about the construction, materials, and life cycle of one of our spaces from the inception to its decommissioning, providing a comprehensive record that delivers transparency and accountability for sustainability at every step. We have selected Madaster as the platform through which to create these material passports, measure their circularity and importantly feed this data back to customers.  Madaster is a leading platform for material passports and circular economy solutions in the built environment and we are excited to join their partner network which enables us to capture and share data insights about our project portfolio. The ability to display that data within our sites will be a big part of our brand proposition. But why do material passports matter? They provide transparency in both design and materials, aligning with this value and offer detailed insights into the sustainability of projects.  They also champion the circular economy. The use of material passports helps us to track and manage these materials more effectively, making our office solutions both innovative and environmentally responsible.  It is also our mission to reduce environmental impact, creating office interiors that are as sustainable as they are functional.  Material passports help drive prioritised materials that have lower environmental impact. Our approach to sustainable office interiors allows us to deliver customised sustainable solutions because we understand that each office has unique needs.  Building passports enable us to precisely tailor our sustainability efforts to ensure that our designs are both innovative and demonstrably sustainable.  This commitment to sustainability is also reflected in our choice of materials.  With material passports, we’re incentivised to obtain greener materials and products that are better for people and planet. In line with our goal to leave a positive impact on the planet, material passports help to minimise construction and demolition waste, as we seek to increase reuse and recycling. We’re not just creating office spaces; we’re designing the future of work where sustainability is at the core. Material passports are a vital tool in this journey, ensuring that every office we design is a step towards a more sustainable future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Construction key to building sustainable Wales' – Jeremy Miles

‘Construction key to building sustainable Wales’ – Jeremy Miles

Wales will need an additional 11,000 construction workers to support its growing economy, the Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, tells a Construction Summit in Llandudno Junction. Speaking to delegates from the North Wales construction sector, Jeremy Miles emphasised the importance of the private and public sectors working together to meet this demand. He set out his vision to ensure rapid growth and improvement, including: Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates, also addressed the event and emphasised there are many opportunities for the construction sector in North Wales. Jeremy Miles said: “The construction industry has a huge impact on our economy and society. It creates jobs, drives economic growth, and offers solutions to social, climate, and energy challenges. We are already doing a lot of things right in Wales, with many countries looking at our efforts to transition to a prosperous, sustainable future with fair work at its heart. “That is not to say we do not acknowledge the challenges construction employers face, the creation of a future talent pipeline, the identification of key projects and the need to support innovation are issues that need further backing. My message to the sector in North Wales is clear: whether through building vital infrastructure for a greener, more sustainable future or maximising opportunities presented by Free Ports and Investment Zones, the construction industry is crucial to shaping the Wales of tomorrow.” Ken Skates said: “I’m pleased this event is taking place in North Wales focussed on the construction sector in the region.  “Part of my role as Cabinet Secretary for North Wales is to champion  the interests of our communities, businesses and institutions. It’s about ensuring our policies reflect the circumstances, challenges and opportunities in the North. “We can achieve so much more by working together, and with exciting developments across the region, this is an exciting time for the sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Prestigious award for Together Housing’s net zero drive

Prestigious award for Together Housing’s net zero drive

Together Housing has been named ‘housing association of the year’ at the Yorkshire and Humberside Energy Efficiency Awards 2024. The award reflects the social housing landlord’s ambitious plan to move over 30,000 of its homes across Yorkshire and Lancashire away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and lead the way in greener social housing. This plan is part of Together Housing’s decarbonisation strategy supporting the drive to net zero. Through all its actions, products and services, the organisation is minimising its carbon footprint by reducing waste, cutting vehicle mileage and moving to an electric fleet. In Together Housing’s approach, each home has an initial survey and ventilation assessment to check the home is suitable for energy efficiency improvements. Then, depending on the measures needed to make the home warmer and cheaper to heat, additional insulation is added along with fitting an air source heat pump and solar power system. Jon Schofield, Assistant Director of Property (Net Zero) at Together Housing, said: “I’m delighted our decarbonisation programme has been recognised in these prestigious awards. Moving towards energy efficient and greener social housing is vital to ensure a sustainable future for all our residents. “As well as improving the energy performance of our existing housing stock and helping our most vulnerable residents to live in warmer, more comfortable homes, we’re also leading the way to deliver more environmentally friendly communities across the north of England. We plan to share our lessons learnt with other housing associations so they can follow our example.” The prestigious awards recognise the great innovators and achievements in the energy efficiency industry. Energy Efficiency Awards chairman Gary Braybrooke said: “This is our 10th anniversary, and we think it’s more important than ever that we continue to honour companies and individuals working in the energy efficiency industry, carrying out some of the most vital work in the UK today. The work that they do – helping people save energy, reduce bills and help the environment – is key to all our futures.” Together Housing was also commended in the ‘large scale project of the year’ category for the landlord’s carbon retrofit booster scheme improving the energy efficiency of 581 homes in Calderdale. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Nordic Semiconductor recognized for milestone in greenhouse gas emission reduction targets

Nordic Semiconductor recognised for milestone in greenhouse gas emission reduction targets

The Science Based Targets Initiative officially validates Nordic’s ambitious emission reduction targets. Nordic Semiconductor, a leading provider of low power wireless IoT connectivity solutions, today announces that its ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). In its validation letter, the SBTi commends Nordic Semiconductor’s net-zero target by 2050, which is currently the most ambitious designation available through the SBTi process. “Receiving validation from the SBTi is a significant achievement for Nordic Semiconductor,” says Ola Bostrøm, Senior Vice President of Quality, Nordic Semiconductor. “It confirms that our climate strategy and commitment to greenhouse gas emissions reduction are in line with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The SBTi validated targets provide a clear, science-based path to what level we must reduce our greenhouse gas emissions in both our own operations, and in our value chain.” In the near-term, Nordic Semiconductor commits to reduce its direct and indirect GHG emissions from energy usage (‘Scope 1’ and ‘Scope 2’) by 60 percent by 2030, with 2019 being its base year. Nordic will also reduce its emissions intensity (emission by value added) for other indirect emission (‘Scope 3’) by 60% percent by 2030, with 2019 being its base year. Nordic aims to achieve this by reducing energy consumption and increasing renewable energy in its own operations, while engaging with stakeholders in the value chain. In the longer-term, Nordic Semiconductor commits to a 2050 net-zero target, meaning any residual GHG emission in its value chain will be neutralized at that point in line with SBTi criteria. Further detailed information on Nordic’s commitment to its SBTi and GHG emission reduction targets is included in the company’s latest Annual Report 2023. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Currie & Brown reports that hotels could slash their carbon footprint by 75% by 2050

Currie & Brown reports that hotels could slash their carbon footprint by 75% by 2050

As politicians pledge action on net zero, a new report says hotels could use strategic energy efficiency upgrades to dramatically cut their carbon intensity by 75%. The report, “[Revive & Thrive: Decarbonising Hotels for a Sustainable Future]”, published by Currie & Brown – a world-leading provider of project management, cost management, and advisory services – outlines a clear path for hotels to significantly reduce their annual emissions per sqm from 70kg to just 20kg of CO² per m² per year. According to the report, these improvements could be delivered with a relatively modest investment of between £300 and £800 per sqm. To help organisations embed sustainability, be more cost efficient, and achieve their net zero ambitions, the report advises a four-stage strategy: “As the hospitality industry evolves, the focus must shift from merely adhering to traditional standards towards embedding sustainability in every facet of hotel operations and management,” comments Gillian Breen, senior director and head of commercial cost management at Currie & Brown. “This report not only guides hotel owners through effective strategies to increase profitability but also underscores the importance of immediate action in the face of global climate challenges.” The report calls for a collective industry effort to meet ambitious carbon reduction targets of 66% per room by 2030 and 90% by 2050. It also notes that by improving the environmental performance of their hotels, operators could see uplifts in revenue per room (RevPAR).  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Survey: Green skills gap threatens UK's sustainability goals

Survey: Green skills gap threatens UK’s sustainability goals

A new survey from the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), The Environmental Services Association (ESA), Groundwork, and ESS Expo (Environmental Services and Solutions Expo), has revealed a significant green skills gap, with 58% of respondents feeling UK businesses are unprepared for the transition to a sustainable future. Findings from the National Environmental Services Survey,[1] highlight that 58% of respondents feel there is or will be a green skills gap in UK businesses. When asked about what challenges they foresee in measuring and achieving biodiversity net-gain, the most cited answer was the [lack of] knowledge and skills gap. Meanwhile, 99.7% of respondents believe technology has a role to play in accelerating the path to net zero emissions. The latest findings show acute shortages underscoring the need for educational programmes to equip the workforce with the expertise needed. Leading the list, one in four (25.69%) respondents indicated a high demand for skills in waste management and the circular economy, followed by over one in 10 (12.33%) calling for expertise in resilience building and developing strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change. Other shortages revealed lie in sustainability and environmental management (11.41%), carbon management and offsetting (8.41%), and environmental law and policy (8.06%). The rise of roles such as the Chief Sustainability Officer – which saw more individuals hired in 2021 alone[2], compared to the previous five years combined – highlights an important shift towards organisations prioritising sustainability. However, the report data from ESS Expo suggests that many businesses are still struggling to find qualified candidates to fill these newly emerging positions. The research also touched on the path to net zero emissions, with a staggering 99.7% of respondents agreeing that technology has a role to play in accelerating the path towards carbon neutrality. Technology will likely offer numerous opportunities for bridging the green skills gap. For example, online learning platforms can deliver specialised green training skills to a wider audience, while virtual reality simulations can provide immersive training experiences for complex green technologies. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) could be used to personalise learning pathways and identify skill gaps within a workforce. By harnessing these technological advancements, organisations can equip the workforce with the necessary knowledge and expertise to effectively navigate the green transition. Dr. Adam Read, Chief External Affairs and Sustainability Officer at SUEZ and member of the Government’s Green Skills Delivery Group, commented: “These results, while not unexpected, are concerning given recent efforts by CIWM and others to highlight the need for future skills. The resources and waste management sector will expand from 150,000 to nearly 450,000 staff in just under a decade and in order to prepare for this, the sector must continue improving its attractiveness and upskilling the current workforce to ensure staff retention. “There are immense opportunities to rethink engagement and form new partnerships with schools, colleges, universities, and professional bodies. Key skills in demand lie in technology, design, AI, communications, engineering, policy implementation, regulation, and data analysis, plus of course in recycling, reuse, repair, upcycling, and refurbishment. “Although the sector is feeling both policy and skills demand uncertainty right now, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Together, if we work hard, we can make huge strides in our sector’s transformation and reinvention, delivering exciting new skilled jobs that underpin the fight against climate change.” Rob Mowat, Managing Director of ESS Expo, said: “The results of the survey make it abundantly clear that there is a green skills gap across the UK workforce. As we move forward, we are going to see more organisations increasingly chasing sustainability-related goals, driven in part by a younger generation that is passionate about environmental issues. However, these objectives will only be met if businesses are able to acquire the necessary green skills. This lack of preparedness could potentially hinder the UK’s ability to achieve its ambitious environmental targets and capitalise on the economic opportunities presented by the transition to a net-zero economy. “With this in mind, it’s crucial for businesses to invest in initiatives that bridge this gap, such as upskilling training programmes, nurturing apprenticeship schemes in green sectors, and fostering collaboration with educational institutions. By working together, we can ensure the UK workforce has the capabilities to deliver a sustainable future. “At ESS Expo, we’re using our platform to raise awareness and equip businesses with everything they need to navigate this transition. As part of our new series of educational webinars, we recently held our first session on green skills. The webinar was hugely well-attended and featured presentations and discussions on government initiatives, apprenticeship schemes, regional differences, and collaborations between UK universities and the industry. We look forward to continuing this focus at the upcoming event in September.” The survey gathered data from 1,498 professionals from across the environmental services industry from April-May 2024. Download the full report for free on the ESS Expo website here. To register to attend ESS Expo 2024 from 11-12 September at the NEC, Birmingham, visit the website here. [1] The survey gathered data from over 1,498 professionals from across the environmental survey industry from April – May 2024. https://www.ess-expo.co.uk/national-environmental-services-survey-insights-2024 [2] https://www.pwc.com/mt/en/publications/sustainability/the-rise-of-chief-sustainability-officers.html#:~:text=Yet%2C%20integrating%20sustainability%20across%20all,the%20previous%20five%20years%20combined. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Former Leicester velodrome site prepping for low-carbon homes

Former Leicester velodrome site prepping for low-carbon homes 

LEADING housing developer Lovell Partnerships has been awarded a contract by Leicester City Council, which will bring forward 38 new low-carbon and energy efficient homes on the site of the city’s former velodrome.    The vital brownfield regeneration plans will bring this derelict land back into use, with support from the government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund in preparing the site ahead of the work which is planned to commence over the summer.   All 38 new homes will be for affordable rent, and will include a range of low carbon elements to ensure environmental efficiency and longevity for the local community into the future. All homes will be fully electrical, with works set to showcase a fully fabric-first approach to construction, and each dwelling set to achieve an EPC A (92+) rating. The installation of ASHPs, PV panels, triple-glazed windows, electric vehicle charging points and MVHR will be delivered as standard, in line with the housing developer’s U-values.   Beth Bundonis, regional managing director for the East Midlands at Lovell Partnerships, said: “there is high demand for affordable homes to support local communities around the country, and revitalising brownfield sites like this one is crucial to be able to increase the much-needed housing stock in the region.  “This particular development will bring the historic velodrome area that has stood derelict for so long back into use for environmentally friendly and affordable homes. Our team in the East Midlands has extensive regeneration knowledge that we’re looking forward to leveraging to support the council in this latest development.   The Saffron Lane regeneration project is one of a collection of projects that the Lovell Partnerships team in the East Midlands is currently working on, as it continues to solidify itself as a leading developer for the region. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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