Commercial : Industrial News

Essential Loading Dock Equipment To Enhance Operations

The dock station is a vital part of all businesses that operate in the manufacturing and distribution industries. However, this area is often overlooked as a smaller detail; the docking station is the gateway between your business and your valued customers. Because opting for quality loading dock equipment and crucial

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6 Uses Of Woven Polypropylene Fabric In Construction

Polypropylene or PP fabric is a type of textile that’s said to have many uses in various industries worldwide. It’s created through the production of specific oil and gasses. Then, they’re woven into fabrics ready for use.  Without undergoing prior chemical treatments, untreated PP fabric can be both bleached and

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Flow Meters: Exploring Types, Technology and Applications

A flow meter is a machine that measures the density or velocity of fluids or gases. They are also known as flow rate sensors, flow indicator, flow gauge, liquid meter, etc. Flow meters are mostly used to measure the fluids or gases that flow within a pipe.   There are several

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RIDBA Announces Shortlist for the RIDBA Building Awards 2021

Last year, the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA) launched the RIDBA Building Awards 2021, designed to recognise innovation and excellence amongst members in the industrial and agricultural buildings industry. After receiving a record number of award entries, RIDBA is delighted to announce the shortlisted projects. Now in

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Musk Process Services to Undertake Production Site Upgrade

Musk Process Services to Undertake Site Upgrade

Lallemand Animal Nutrition, a global leader in yeast and bacteria production, has chosen EJ Musk Process Services to undertake a £2,000,000 expansion of its Malvern site. The investment will see the installation of new larger capacity fermentation vessels, increasing production capacity and underlining Lallemand’s commitment to UK production. Musk, part

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Latest Issue
Issue 334 : Nov 2025

Commercial : Industrial News

Expansion for Kaseum Technology at Moorfield’s Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks

Moorfield Group, the owner and landlord of Aberdeen Energy and Innovation Parks, has agreed lease renewal terms and an expansion with Kaseum Technology at the Energy Development Centre in Bridge of Don. Kaseum, specialists in the design, development and manufacture of downhole tools has agreed a new five-year lease renewal at Units 1 and 2. In addition, Kaseum has also agreed to expand its presence by 30% at the EDC having secured a lease on Unit 4, taking their total space to 6,700 sqft. Paul Church, Managing Director of Kaseum said: “We have managed to come through the Covid pandemic in a healthy position and have experienced increased demand for our products and services. This expansion will allow us to organise our electronics manufacturing more efficiently and will also free up space for our ambitious R&D program, supported by Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Investment Bank.” “Being able to expand our operation at the Energy Park is ideal for our business requirements and offers continuity for our staff and clients. We’ve been based here for four years and are very satisfied with the high quality and well-located space.” Hugh Canham, Head of Asset Management at Moorfield Group added: “Concluding this deal with Kaseum is very positive news for the parks, which has seen a flurry of occupier committing to lease re-gears and expansions in recent months. We have continued to invest in the parks through the pandemic to meet the changing needs of occupiers. We recently launched our flexible workspace offering which caters to a wide range of occupiers with the provision of standalone offices, serviced offices, coworking and workshops within a secure and spacious environment.” Matt Park, Associate Director at Knight Frank said: “With the return to the workplace now in sight, the Energy & Innovation Parks offer the perfect location for occupiers seeking extra space in line with social distancing. The parks are located conveniently close to the city centre, with ample car parking space and beautiful outdoor space. We anticipate increased demand for space over the coming months.” Knight Frank and Ryden are joint agents for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks.

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Essential Loading Dock Equipment To Enhance Operations

The dock station is a vital part of all businesses that operate in the manufacturing and distribution industries. However, this area is often overlooked as a smaller detail; the docking station is the gateway between your business and your valued customers. Because opting for quality loading dock equipment and crucial maintenance can enhance productions, you should consider kitting out your docking station with this essential equipment while also prioritizing ongoing maintenance of the equipment is just as vital. Loading Dock Bumpers Quality loading dock bumpers from Miner Corp are vital components of any dock station. It can be pretty tricky to maneuver a large trailer or truck, even for expert drivers, and this challenge can potentially increase the risks of damage to the loading dock. Installing dock bumpers is a practical way to reduce the chances of damages while also ensuring processes are smoother and less challenging for your drivers. These innovative essentials act as a safety cushion between the truck or trailer and your building. There is quite a wide variety on the market, so be sure to opt for dock bumpers that are best for the type of trucks or trailers at your facility. Dock Seals Dock seals are vital for creating a waterproof seal between the delivery vehicles and the loading dock. Installing dock seals will reduce the costs of energy consumption for your business simply by making it possible to maintain the internal climate of the dock station. When it comes to lean manufacturing, reducing energy consumption is just as crucial as reducing waste, so dock seals can enhance your lean manufacturing status and ensure you can save on expenses as a direct result. Aluminum Loading Dock Boards Aluminum loading dock boards are another piece of essential yet simple equipment required for loading docks. These dock boards will expedite the process of loading-in and loading-out by streamlining the process. However, aluminum loading dock boards are primarily suitable for facilities that deal mostly with lighter loads of less than 15,000 pounds. The boards serve as a bridge between delivery trucks and the dock station. Aluminum is the cheaper material solution for dock boards, although they may need replacing more often than higher quality materials. Regardless, they will get the job done if kept in ideal condition and only used for lighter weight loads. Steel Loading Dock Boards Suppose your facility deals primarily with heavier loads. In that case, steel dock boards will be a more viable solution as these serve the same purpose as aluminum dock boards, although they are significantly more robust and more durable. Steel docking boards can handle loads of up to 60,000 pounds. Even if your facility is handling lighter loads, steel loading dock boards may be the better solution. You won’t have to replace them often; therefore, you can save substantially by investing in the more durable material regardless of how light your delivery loads are. Loading Dock Levelers Loading dock levelers are essential to bridge the gap between the dock station and the delivery trucks or trailers. The decision to install dock levelers will streamline business processes in this area of business and ensure no damage is done to your facility during the delivery process. With that said, you have the choice of hydraulic dock levelers and mechanical dock levelers. You will have to evaluate costs and determine your needs when choosing the best dock levelers for your dock station. Maintaining Loading Dock Equipment Maintaining your dock equipment is just as important as opting for quality equipment installation. Therefore, once you have all the essentials, you should ensure regular maintenance is prioritized. Proper cleaning of the loading dock is part of maintenance, and when cleaning, you should ensure all items are secure before pressure washing the station. Imposing a no eating and drinking policy will also avoid the unnecessary mess that can jam equipment. In addition to this, you should opt for routine pressure washing to keep your equipment in ideal condition while ensuring you are devoted to a maintenance routine with reliable maintenance services is just as crucial. Equipment cleaning and maintenance should be prioritized just as you do loading dock safety. Equipment failure can lead to unplanned downtime, which will have mammoth impacts on profits, processes, and ultimately, your reputation in the industry. So when finding all the necessary equipment for your dock station, you should also ensure you have a proper maintenance and cleaning plan with the right services.

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WORK STARTS ON MAJOR NEW INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT ON FORMER COLLIERY SITE

Yorkshire construction company, Harris CM has started work on a £3.4million contract to build a major new industrial development on part of the former Kellingley Colliery in Knottingley near Wakefield. The scheme will offer 11 high specification units that range from 3,000 sq ft to 4,000 sq ft and is being developed by CRT Property Investments Ltd, which is wholly owned subsidiary of The Coalfields Regeneration Trust. Work will complete by the end of the year.  The development, which is supported by a £1.8m grant from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), will offer extensive car parking with electric vehicle charging points along with high quality landscaping. The project team features the Yorkshire offices of architects, The Harris Partnership, construction consultants Rex Procter & Partners, HJ Consulting Engineers and building services and environmental engineering firm, Hydrock MRB. Jason Adlam, CEO at Harris CM, said: “This site is steeped in history and was the UK’s last deep coal mine to close in 2015. In its heyday, it employed thousands of local people and now through its regeneration, it can play an important role in the local economy once again. “This is our first project with CRT Property Investments, and it is a great opportunity to contribute to the continued regeneration of the ‘Five Towns’, on a site that is only 20 minutes away from our head office near Pontefract, which makes it a fantastic scheme to be involved with.” Shaun O’Brien, Property Investment and Development Director, from CRT Property Investments, said: “These units will appeal to a wide range of SMEs and help address the  shortage of available property in the local area. Once complete, the development will offer a high-quality working environment where businesses can thrive, as well as playing a crucial role in the local economy by creating jobs and opportunities for people in and around Knottingley. “This site is a prime example of how we can create opportunities within the coalfields, and everyone involved with the development is pleased to see work starting on site.” The wider 151-acre Kellingley Colliery site is currently being transformed by Harworth Group into a large-scale development, known as Konect, that will offer 1.45m sq ft of manufacturing and distribution space. The Coalfields Regeneration Trust is the only organisation dedicated to supporting the 5.7m people living in former mining communities throughout the UK. With three priorities for action: employment, skills, health and wellbeing, the organisation redirects funds and support through a programme of activities to ensure that it has a positive impact where it is needed the most.

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GMI awarded major contract by Symphony Group to expand major production facility

Design and construction of a 332,626 sq ft production/warehouse facility to be built adjacent to existing facility at their HQ in Barnsley with the design mirroring the existing building. GMI Construction, a leading main contractor to a growing portfolio of public and private clients throughout the UK has announced that it has been awarded a major new contract by The Symphony Group – the UK’s largest privately owned manufacturer of fitted kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furniture to develop a new 332,626 sq. ft. production warehouse facility at their HQ in Barnsley. The facility which has been designed by Architect Garnett Netherwood and will feature enhanced FM1 floor slabs will be constructed adjacent to the existing Symphony production plant with a harmonious design that mirrors the existing building.  The new facility will provide Symphony with much increased storage and production capacity, along with the enabling of key equipment to enable Symphony to fulfil its plans for growth. The build is expected to take 38 weeks with the expectation that the facility will become fully operational later the same year. Speaking about the appointment Lee Powell, GMI Divisional Managing Director said: “We are very pleased to have been instructed by Symphony Group to construct this important new production plant and warehouse to enable their next phase of expansion. GMI is well known for its work and credentials in the production and warehouse sector and we look forward to working with Symphony and the full project team to deliver this building on time/budget”.

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6 Uses Of Woven Polypropylene Fabric In Construction

Polypropylene or PP fabric is a type of textile that’s said to have many uses in various industries worldwide. It’s created through the production of specific oil and gasses. Then, they’re woven into fabrics ready for use.  Without undergoing prior chemical treatments, untreated PP fabric can be both bleached and cleaned; more processes may be done for further refining the product. The fabric is also known for its strength and utility, hence, many in the construction industry prize it for its benefits. The following points pertain to how different construction companies are using the material for a variety of purposes.  1. Rubble Mound Creation  Polypropylene fabrics are used in geotechnical engineering, a branch of engineering that involves the earth, materials related to the soil, and their behavior when used in construction. Coastal drilling and mining are just some of the activities that fall under the said category. PP’s also known as a geotextile or a special type of fabric favored for its geosynthetic feature and superior filtering capabilities.   Woven polypropylene fabric suppliers can create tear-resistant, mildew-resistant, high-strength, and lightweight materials that can withstand stretching and shrinking. The fabric prevents the mixing or transferring of delicate material like soil and sand with rocks or gravel.   It’s advisable that the material itself, however, needs to be protected by small stones that help prevent damage from rocks and blocks. Polypropylene is sometimes mixed with other similar geotextiles such as polyamide and polyethylene to enhance its usefulness and serve more specific tasks.    The synthetic fabric is used at beaches wherein it replaces rocks in locations that lack quarries. They can also be used as primary materials for the construction of rubble mound breakwaters to prevent the impact of ocean waves in coastal erosions and the transportation of sediments.   2. Flood Control  Locations that are constantly battling extremely wet weather conditions can use sandbags to protect different establishments. Polypropylene fabrics can be turned into sandbags. However, they’re not to be confused with earthbags for the two are different from each other. Sandbags are believed to be helpful flood control solution examples to prevent the flow of water as much as possible.   You can place sandbags in front of entrances and indoor water drainages such as the restroom and laundry room in your home. Sandbags are especially useful when the structure is made of fibro-sheeting or wood materials.   It’s important to note that this type of bag must only be filled with sand and not with clay, soil, or gravel as they’ll not hold water. They can go as heavy as 20kg and must be laid on top of a plastic sheet like you would with bricks where the unfilled part of a sandbag is topped with the filled end of another.  3. Fences And Screens    Polypropylene is one of the most widely used plastic materials in the world. It’s also used as a means to secure construction sites by keeping unauthorized persons out. Construction locations can be dangerous, and the use of polypropylene fences or screens is a safe and temporary alternative to other types of blockers a construction manager may use.   They’re economical and don’t cause harm to both motorists and pedestrians. Constructions sites also use them for aesthetic reasons as they can help block out the unsightly environment of the site from onlookers and passersby.   PP fabrics are regarded as a great material for construction fences because they’re resistant to the seasons and changing daily weather conditions. Their heat-enduring features prevent them from chipping or flaking that makes the covers long-lasting. In addition, they contain pigments and fillers that block out UV rays or ultraviolet radiation to protect both workers and the construction from possible damage.  4. Silt Fences For Erosion Control  Polypropylene silt-films are temporary shields used in construction sites to help prevent ground sediments from breaking or falling apart. It’s an essential tool for areas near bodies of water as it prevents the contaminated soil from eventually seeping into the water.  PP’s a durable material that’ll last up to six months with good care. They also make great temporary solutions to fencing because they’re easy to remove and can’t have a lasting effect on the environment.   Silt fencing can be a construction of wood and geotextiles like polypropylene material. They’re also resistant to water as it’s believed that they can withstand the pressures brought upon by a cubic foot of water.   5. Road And Railway Construction  Geotextiles like polypropylene fabrics, also called geotechnical materials mixed with other plastics, are also used to construct roadways and railways that make travel easier and faster. These unique types of fabrics are utilized to stabilize substrates or underlying layers of substances such as soft or uneven terrain underneath a construction feature.   In road construction, geosynthetic fabrics are laid out over muddy and unstable soil. Heavy machinery then spread out a subbase layer of rock or gravel on top. The plastic fabric helps prevent the subgrade material from sinking into the muddy ground. The area then becomes leveled and lowers the need for more maintenance work in the long run.   PP fabric is also placed between a layer of substrate underneath. A ballast layer is set on top to maintain structural integrity under the tracks. Railways tend to degrade over time because of subgrade cohesion. Geotextiles make it easier to save on labor costs because it puts a long gap between the maintenance periods of rail tracks.  Polypropylene combination fabrics can help prevent the subgrade underneath from pumping when trains travel on the tracks. The reinforcement barrier can help strengthen the layered elements to make them safer and sturdier throughout the years.  6. Earthbag Construction  Polypropylene fabrics can be made into earthbags that are used for home construction. They’re economical alternatives to conventional blocks and bricks but are also durable and holds well against water damage and rotting. They can be eco-friendly too as some earthbags are mixed with portions of clay and burlap or hemp. Some earthbags also come with UV protection.   No energy

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Flow Meters: Exploring Types, Technology and Applications

A flow meter is a machine that measures the density or velocity of fluids or gases. They are also known as flow rate sensors, flow indicator, flow gauge, liquid meter, etc. Flow meters are mostly used to measure the fluids or gases that flow within a pipe.   There are several options in flowmeters, such as magnetic Coriolis, single-use, variable area, etc. However, they can be different in price, accuracy, and functionality. Ultrasonic flow meters are an extremely accurate and multi-use option but tend to be quite expensive. For a low-price option with better accuracy, you can choose single-use turbine sensors. But they are only good if the working fluid is low viscous. For higher viscous flowing liquid, disposable ultrasonic meters are a good choice for single-use.  Things to Consider while Choosing a Flow Meter Type of Flow Measurement. Volumetric or Mass Flow, Momentum or Velocity. Type of Media. Liquid, gas, or slurry. Media Conditions. Temperature and pressure of the media and whether the conditions remain the same or change with time. Accuracy. Accuracy level required for the readings. Flow Range. Requirement of minimum and maximum readings in the flow range. Geographical Conditions. Clean installation, tamper proof-readings, ATEX zone installation, etc. Flow Meter Options Available 1. Ultrasonic Flow Meters. These are more advanced and flexible than other flow meters. They measure the frequency of ultrasonic waves passed through the fluids. Two popular categories of ultrasonic flow meters are Transit-time and Doppler. Doppler meters use particles in the liquid by their reflection mechanism to measure the speed of the liquid. The Transit-time meter measures the difference in frequencies of forward and reverses signals passed through the clean liquid. Transit-time works best in clean fluids without any particles or solids. As they are flexible, ultrasonic flow meters are widely used in many industries. That includes facilities management, chemical, paper and pulp, and mining sectors. Petrochemical, water, wastewater, and aquafarms also procure the technology. 2. Coriolis Flow Meters. They provide the measurement of true-mass flow from two designs: a single tube and two parallel tubes. They work through an oscillation that is induced within the tubes at indicated frequencies. It is based on Newton’s Second Law of Motion, the frequency of oscillation changes with a change in flow rate. Coriolis flowmeters are best suited for growing and broad collection of liquid and gas applications. They give multi-parameter details on temperature, density, and mass. Mainly used in the wastewater treatment facility, pharmaceutical manufacturing, gas facility, and nuclear facility 3. Gear Flow Meters. These use oval-shaped gears that are interlinked and rotates when liquid passes through them. The volume of fluid that passes through the oval gears is well controlled, which gives the meter higher accuracy. The structure is simple and rugged, which delivers the flexibility of installation in most types of environments. Gear meters are best suited for high-viscous fluids. The gear meters work well in the paper and pulp industry, oil and fuel transfer, and manufacturing. Because of stainless steel gears, they are best suited for petrochemical and any environment dealing in light to heavy oils.  4. Magnetic Flow Meters. They are also known as Magmeters and found in two types: full-bore and insertion. Magmeters work by assessing the electric content present in water or other fluids. The technology has no moving parts, and full-bore types provide no intrusion in the fluid stream. Magmeters are used in water purification, mining, food and beverage, paper and pulp, petroleum, and chemical industries. The use of Magmeters should be prevented in low-conductive liquids like de-ionized water. 5. Turbine Flow Meters. They have a bladed rotor connected to a centerline of a flowing stream. The rotator section provides a pulse while moving either an optical or a magnetic sensor. The pulse frequency is directly linked to the velocity of the liquid. Some turbine meters give higher accuracy and can deal with higher-viscous fluids. Two main applications for turbine flow meters are water purification and irrigation. However, they can also be applied in wastewater, utilities, and oil and gas industries. If accessed with proper sanitized connections, they manage flow in the food and beverage sectors. Not suited for a low-flowing stream. 6. Vortex Flow Meters. They use pressure sensors for measuring pressure pulse.  Pressure pulses are measured from vortices, which come from the flowing liquid passing a bluff object. A simple explanation for this can be the waving of the flag. The pulses and rate of flow are directly proportional. Although the vortex flow meter is lesser-known, it provides higher accuracy. The design is perfect for high-purity and aggressive applications. These meters are suitable for wastewater, food and beverage, oil and gas, and water industries. They can also be applied to chemical, utilities, and water purification. Be Wise While Choosing Flow Meters Although all the flow meters have their unique features, you must choose a flow meter wisely and based on your requirements. Consider factors like usage, sanitization, place of installation, pricing, maintenance, viscosity, temperature, etc., before making a decision. Make your choice that’s wide enough to cover your needs. The measurement accuracy depends on several factors. A low-cost, lower-quality meter will give lower accuracy results, while the same is true the other way around.

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RIDBA Announces Shortlist for the RIDBA Building Awards 2021

Last year, the Rural and Industrial Design and Building Association (RIDBA) launched the RIDBA Building Awards 2021, designed to recognise innovation and excellence amongst members in the industrial and agricultural buildings industry. After receiving a record number of award entries, RIDBA is delighted to announce the shortlisted projects. Now in their fifth year, the Awards demonstrate the diversity of skills of RIDBA members, from schools and offices to cattle buildings and grain stores. There are seven categories on show this year including: Education & Leisure, Industrial & Production, Farm Storage, Public Services, Livestock, Residential & Offices, and Retail & Distribution. There is also an additional category to recognise Training. The judging panel consisted of industry experts including: Martin Heywood (Head Judge and RIDBA Technical Consultant), Jamie Robertson (RIDBA Livestock Consultant), Joe Black (Chairman of the Advisory Committee for Roofsafety), Andrew Brown (Owner, Visit Our Farm), Niresh Somlie (Principal Technical Officer at BM Trada), Stuart Roberts (Deputy President of the NFU). The judges were very impressed by the high level of technical excellence demonstrated by RIDBA members delivering successful projects to their clients. Head Judge, Martin Heywood said: “I would first like to congratulate everyone who entered the RIDBA Building Awards this year. We received some excellent entries, demonstrating that members continue to exceed high standards of work in the industrial and agricultural buildings industry. Although a challenge, we are delighted with results of this year’s Awards and look forward to sharing them with you at the flagship event in September.” The winners will be announced at the Awards ceremony on Thursday 30 September 2021 at the Macdonald Hotel in Manchester. Bookings for the event are now open, and guests can secure their places by completing the booking form. RIDBA would like to take this opportunity to thanks its sponsors for supporting this event: Headline sponsor: AJN Steelstock Premium sponsors: Joseph Ash Galvanizing, Hadley Group, Kingspan, and Steadmans. Event sponsor: STRUMIS Media Partner: Farming Monthly RIDBA would also like to thank Joseph Ash Galvanizing as the Evening Drinks Reception sponsor. The shortlisted projects can be viewed here.

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Lincoln Enterprise Park expansion won on appeal enabling economic growth for the city

Following the continued demand for commercial property in and around Lincoln and a successful planning appeal win – Lincoln Enterprise Park has been granted planning permission for the extension of the site – bringing new jobs to the city. Following the completion of phase 6 in 2019, the newly approved phase 7 will bring 15 new mixed-use units to the park – located on the A46 near Thorpe on the Hill – offering in-demand expansion opportunities for current occupants and new commercial premises for other businesses. It is estimated that circa 50 jobs will be created following the extension of Lincoln Enterprise Park, which in due course could directly or indirectly grow to 200. Developer and site owner LEP Developments brought together a team of highly experienced industry professionals to successfully appeal the local authority’s initial decision to deny the planning approval. Managing director of LEP Developments, Nicholas Falkinder, said: “Lincoln Enterprise Park’s growth over the last 15 years has been driven by the demand from businesses wanting to either expand, or relocate to the area. “Naturally, we are pleased with the decision to enable us to progress with our plans – myself and the wider team have worked hard to ensure our proposals are in line with the local authority’s policy to support economic growth and productivity, protect employment and encourage new business start-ups. “We will be delivering a high-quality and sensitively designed development, which has carefully considered its context and setting – contributing towards driving the Lincolnshire economy forward.” Alongside LEP Developments, Lincoln-based Heronswood Architectural Design led the original application, planning consultancy GraceMachin Planning & Property led the appeal, and landscape architect practice, Influence, created the landscape plans and impact assessment of the extension. Partner of GraceMachin Planning & Property, Nick Grace, said: “This is the right decision to enable welcome economic growth in Lincoln – a vibrant city which continues to attract inward investment from businesses that want to operate here. “The National Planning Policy guidance published in 2019 gives significant weight to economic growth and productivity, and this should be driven forward in Lincoln, as it is in other areas, for the benefit of the local economy. “LEP Developments offer a premium product in a unique and highly accessible location and those firms that are already on the park and are thriving, will be able to expand their premises and operations.” Landscape architect Influence created the landscape design and planting plans for the site, which includes the addition of native trees, hedgerows and wildflowers. Sara Boland, managing director of Influence, said: “The current footprint of phase 7 which is grassland is low in ecological diversity and this is a good opportunity to improve on the biodiversity and habitats on the site. Our plans include significant ecological and biodiversity enhancements and the landscape provision goes above and beyond what is usually expected at a commercial site – which is fantastic. “As a practice we have supported LEP Developments since its first application for this extension and conducted a detailed landscape visual assessment. We maintained our position in the appeal that the plans had no landscape or visual impact, and we are pleased that the Planning Inspectorate was in agreement. “I wish Nicholas and the team all the best with the extension and look forward to seeing the business park continue to thrive.” Rather than speculative building, LEP Developments does not begin construction until the majority of the units have been let or sold, so there are rarely long-term vacancies. The new units, which range from 1,500 to 12,000 sq ft. are being marketed by Lambert Smith Hampton. Lincs-based law firm Roythornes worked with LEP Developments on the planning appeal.

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SEGRO Appoints Winvic for Eighth Industrial Warehouse at SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been awarded the eighth contract to build a net zero carbon industrial warehouse at the 700-acre SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway (SLPEMG). It is the first speculative development at the park, which is adjacent to East Midlands Airport and 1.5 miles from the A42/M42 connection at J23A, and the £9 million project will be completed in November 2021.   The 200,000 sq ft unit, with a 15m clear height to the eaves, will be cold store ready and have 17 docks, 4 Euro docks and 4 level access doors and is being designed by Winvic using BIM Level 2. As part of this digital design development and careful supply chain choices, Winvic has already reduced material wastage on this project by 34 per cent and upscaled the development so it will achieve an EPC A+ rating. It will be constructed to BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and sustainable features will include roof mounted photovoltaic (PV) panels, LED lighting and upgraded cladding which improves air-tightness for temperature controlled operations. It is the first time that PV has been used on an industrial warehouse at SLPEMG and it will be installed to offset all operational carbon based on the base build specification. All embodied carbon associated with the building will be calculated and offset through a scheme in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) framework and utilising Gold vested carbon credits. For example, this could include UK tree planting, supporting local communities, schools and charities and improving clean cooking facilities, whereby efficient stoves replace wood burning open fires. Additionally, the scheme comprises 10,000 sq ft of two-storey office accommodation, a 3,000 sq ft transport office, a 55m yard, and parking for 170 cars and 45 HGVs. Winvic will also be undertaking all associated external works including hardstandings, car parking, landscaping and drainage, plus alterations to the existing estate road with pedestrian crossing points. Winvic has had a presence on the SLPEMG site since its inception February 2017 when the main contractor began the civils and infrastructure work to facilitate the park and a Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) and are currently constructing two other modern industrial warehouses. One of which is a 694,000 sq ft facility for DHL, which comprises two mezzanine levels and over 25,000 sq ft of two-storey integral offices. Unusually, it has a 33m high bay and an 18m low bay that wraps around two sides of the unit, and it is due to complete in September 2021. The second facility is a 150,000 sq ft fulfilment centre with ancillary offices, car parking including double-deck parking for 200 electric vans and lorry loading facilities. Danny Nelson, Winvic’s Head of Industrial, Distribution and Logistics, commented: “We’re thrilled that the SEGRO team has once again put its trust in Winvic at SLPEMG, and this eighth unit means we have three separate project teams working at the 700-acre site. It is a special facility due to its true net zero credentials and we’re utilising BIM to its full potential to assist with this goal. For example, our design team has been working closely with SEGRO to push the scheme to achieve EPC A+ and material wastage has been reduced through digital processes by a significant 34 per cent. The short 26-week programme means we will be handing the scheme over in November of this year, and we are ready to assist with fit out when a tenant is secured.”   Andrew Pilsworth, Managing Director, National Logistics at SEGRO, said: “This speculative development is really exciting, as it highlights our confidence in the ongoing demand for well located, connected, modern space in the East Midlands and underpins the importance of logistics. Including this speculative build, Winvic is currently constructing three units for us at this site and the company’s expertise with net zero carbon projects is evident. With the park nearly 75% full, we’ll be working hard over the coming months to secure customers for the spec build and the remaining 1.5m sq ft of space to ensure that SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway can continue to play a key role in creating jobs and economic growth in the region.” For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk. Join Winvic on social media – visit Twitter @WinvicLtd – and LinkedIn.  

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Musk Process Services to Undertake Production Site Upgrade

Musk Process Services to Undertake Site Upgrade

Lallemand Animal Nutrition, a global leader in yeast and bacteria production, has chosen EJ Musk Process Services to undertake a £2,000,000 expansion of its Malvern site. The investment will see the installation of new larger capacity fermentation vessels, increasing production capacity and underlining Lallemand’s commitment to UK production. Musk, part of the Edwin James Group, is delivering the turnkey project from design to installation with fabrication handled via the Musk workshop in Swadlincote. “This investment and the improvements at our Malvern production site will help us to meet the growing demand for our products. We are committed to our UK production and delivering more solutions that positively impact animal nutrition and well-being.  The team at Musk showed a real understanding of the project, and with their other group companies they were able to provide us with a full solution from planning and design right through to manufacturing and implementation,” said Jonathan Wiffen, Operations Director at Lallemand Animal Nutrition. Lallemand Animal Nutrition specialises in microbial fermentation using yeast and bacteria in animal agriculture. The business develops, produces and markets high-value yeast and bacteria products, including probiotics, silage inoculants, and yeast derivatives. Commenting on the project Charlie Price, operations director at Musk Process Services, said: “We are working in partnership with Lallemand to deliver a turnkey project that will expand capacity at this key production site in the Malverns. It underlines the integration of services across the Edwin James Group to deliver everything from project design to fabrication and installation.” Edwin James Group is a national engineering, technical and process services group that operates throughout the UK. The group offers a complete range of services that are delivered by a highly skilled workforce.

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