Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of modern building design, driven by the dual goals of reducing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. While much attention is given to insulation, windows, and HVAC systems, plumbing systems also play a critical role in optimizing energy usage within buildings. Cutting-edge plumbing solutions help
ENHANCING modern firefighting services and responding to vital community need, work on a new carbon neutral fire station is underway in Surrey, with work set to complete in 2026. The existing Reigate Fire Station, located on Croydon Road, is set to be demolished to make way for a purpose-built 950
Leading corporate services provider,NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), has today unveiled a £500m framework agreement designed to help public sector organisations – including the NHS – decarbonise their estates. The new Decarbonisation of Estates framework agreement helps the NHS achieve its ambition of becoming the world’s first net zero
Key announcement set to reduce direct CO2 emissions by up to 90% in line with the Glencar target to reduce Scope 1 emissions by the end of 2025. Glencar, a leading UK based construction company recognised for its past ranking among Europe’s fastest-growing businesses and known for delivering high quality
Households across parts of North West England and Central Scotland can now get free help to plan home improvements that save money on energy bills and carbon emissions, thanks to a new service, Energywise. People can access free impartial advice, online or over the phone, from a team of experts
Bellway has won a prestigious award for its strategy to reduce carbon emissions across the business as it helps lead the housebuilding industry towards net zero. The company, which is based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and builds homes across England, Scotland and Wales, scooped the prize for Best Carbon Reduction Innovation or
10 properties at Kedward Avenue in Middlesbrough will be energy efficient and future-proofed for residents. Esh Construction is helping raise the bar for sustainable living in Teesside as it develops 10 net-zero carbon homes for Thirteen Group. Part of an £18 million development known as Kedward Avenue – one of
Vantage, a sustainable retrofit and principal contracting business, proudly announces the successful completion of its photovoltaic (PV) installation project at The Arches, a new build-to-rent development in Leicester, for the Catella European Residential Fund III (CER III). The project was delivered on budget and a week ahead of schedule. Commissioned
The National Home Decarbonisation Group, in partnership with Futurebuild and Innovate UK, has launched its Big Retrofit Challenge, a bold new competition aimed at unearthing game-changing solutions in home decarbonisation. The Big Retrofit Challenge offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and companies to showcase their innovations in front of key
Virgin Media O2 has signed a commitment to invest in a new state-of-the art office space in central Manchester, agreeing a contract with Island that will see the new and innovative net zero carbon workspace become the company’s central Manchester office location from late next year. With the lease of
Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of modern building design, driven by the dual goals of reducing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. While much attention is given to insulation, windows, and HVAC systems, plumbing systems also play a critical role in optimizing energy usage within buildings. Cutting-edge plumbing solutions help conserve water while also greatly lowering energy usage. In this article, we explore how innovative plumbing systems enhance energy efficiency and why consulting a certified plumber is vital for their implementation. 1. Smart Plumbing Fixtures Smart plumbing fixtures, such as low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets, have become a game-changer in modern buildings. These fixtures minimize water consumption while maintaining performance. For instance, low-flow showerheads use air infusion technology to deliver strong water pressure while using significantly less water. Using less hot water also leads to a decrease in energy consumption for heating water. A certified plumber ensures proper installation of these advanced fixtures, maximizing their efficiency and preventing potential issues like leaks or uneven pressure. 2. Tankless Water Heaters Tankless water heaters, sometimes referred to as on-demand water heaters, are highly efficient appliances for contemporary plumbing setups. In contrast to conventional water heaters, which constantly heat and store water, tankless units heat water only when it is required. This eliminates standby energy losses and can save up to 30% on energy bills. These systems demand careful installation and ongoing maintenance, so having a certified plumber’s expertise is crucial. Incorrect installation can lower efficiency and cause system breakdowns. 3. Greywater Recycling Systems Greywater recycling systems are a cutting-edge solution to improve water and energy efficiency. They gather wastewater from sources like sinks, showers, and washing machines, process it, and repurpose it for non-drinking uses such as flushing toilets and watering plants. By reusing greywater, buildings reduce their reliance on freshwater supplies and lower the energy required for water treatment and transportation. Designing and installing a greywater recycling system involves detailed planning to meet local regulations. A licensed plumber is essential to ensure the system functions safely and efficiently. 4. Hot Water Recirculation Systems Hot water recirculation systems provide instant access to hot water at fixtures, minimizing water waste by eliminating the wait time for it to heat up. These systems use pumps to circulate water through pipes continuously or on demand. While they require some energy to operate, the overall savings in water and heating energy outweigh the costs. A certified plumber can design a recirculation system tailored to the building’s layout and ensure energy-efficient operation by incorporating timers, sensors, or smart controls. 5. Energy-Efficient Pipe Insulation Insulating hot water pipes is a simple yet highly effective way to reduce heat loss. Effective insulation helps preserve the water temperature as it moves through the pipes, decreasing the need for reheating. This is especially crucial in large buildings with extensive plumbing systems. A certified plumber can identify areas where insulation is most needed and install high-quality materials to achieve optimal energy savings. 6. Leak Detection and Prevention Systems Water leaks not only lead to water wastage but also drive up energy consumption, especially when they involve hot water. Modern leak detection systems utilize sensors and smart technology to monitor plumbing systems, notifying property owners of potential problems before they worsen. Certain systems can even automatically cut off the water supply when a leak is identified. Hiring a certified plumber to install and maintain these systems ensures accurate detection and reliable performance. 7. Solar Water Heating Systems Solar water heating systems capture the sun’s energy to warm water, greatly decreasing dependence on traditional energy sources. These systems are highly effective and can supply a substantial portion of a building’s hot water requirements, particularly in areas with ample sunlight. Installing a solar water heating system involves complex plumbing work, including integrating solar panels, storage tanks, and piping. A certified plumber has the expertise to handle these tasks and ensure seamless operation. 8. Smart Water Management Systems Smart water management systems leverage IoT (Internet of Things) technology to track and regulate water usage in real-time. These systems offer valuable data on consumption trends, identify inefficiencies, and provide suggestions for optimization. Some advanced systems can even integrate with building automation systems to optimize water and energy usage collectively. A certified plumber can install and configure these systems, ensuring compatibility with the building’s plumbing network and other smart technologies. The Role of Certified Plumbers in Energy-Efficient Plumbing While advanced plumbing systems offer significant benefits, their performance depends heavily on proper installation and maintenance. This is where a certified plumber becomes indispensable. With in-depth knowledge of modern plumbing technologies, building codes, and energy-efficient practices, certified plumbers ensure that systems are installed correctly, operate efficiently, and comply with regulations. Additionally, certified plumbers can assess a building’s unique needs and recommend customized solutions. Their expertise minimizes the risk of errors and maximizes the return on investment for energy-efficient plumbing systems. Conclusion Modern plumbing systems are transforming how buildings handle water and energy usage. From tankless water heaters to greywater recycling systems and smart water management technologies, these innovations contribute to substantial energy savings and environmental sustainability. However, achieving these benefits requires the expertise of a certified plumber, whose knowledge and skills ensure the effective implementation of these systems. As the construction and building industries continue to prioritize energy efficiency, the role of advanced plumbing systems will only grow. By investing in these technologies and partnering with certified plumbers, building owners can create sustainable spaces that align with modern energy efficiency standards.
ENHANCING modern firefighting services and responding to vital community need, work on a new carbon neutral fire station is underway in Surrey, with work set to complete in 2026. The existing Reigate Fire Station, located on Croydon Road, is set to be demolished to make way for a purpose-built 950 sq. m. facility, designed to meet the needs of firefighting crews and the communities they serve. Facilities will include a new kitchen, gym and lounge space, with private rest rooms and shower facilities. A gender-neutral design will be central to the new fire station, as fire and rescue authorities look to encourage more diverse recruitment into the sector, as well as maximise space and cost efficiencies. As a 24/7 operating base, energy management will also be central to the new fire station, with an all-electric and solar solution in place to ensure the facility fits in with the local, regional and national net zero drives. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard is supporting the project, operating under the Surrey County Council Professional Services Framework to provide design services up to RIBA Stage 3, while acting in a technical advisory capacity from Stage 4 onwards. The firm was instructed by Surrey County Council and is working closely with contractor Neilcott Construction and the Council to bring the new design vision to life. Chris Gilbert, associate director at Pick Everard, said: “Renovating and modernising fire estates is a crucial undertaking in the blue light sector, ensuring our emergency services have the tools at their disposal to respond quickly to critical need. “The work being undertaken at Reigate is exemplary of this approach, with significant investment allowing for a build that is more responsive, adaptive and energy efficient, meeting the needs of an increasingly diverse and flexible workforce. “We’re looking forward to our collaboration with Neilcott Construction and Surrey County Council, which will provide a comfortable and agile new space for crew members and a vital resource for the local community.” As well as housing its fire crew, the new fire station at Reigate will also provide a space for the South East Coast Ambulance Service, as Surrey Fire and Rescue Service continue to work even closer with their blue light partners. The investment by Surrey County Council forms part of a wider plan to modernise and improve fire and rescue services in the county, with further fire station renovations taking place in Chobham and Lingfield. Training facility upgrades at Wray Park are also part of the wider plan, which is the largest single investment in training for frontline staff in Surrey Fire and Rescue Service’s history. Chief Fire Officer at Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, Dan Quin said: “We are pleased to be making the necessary improvements to Reigate Fire Station. This investment means we can enhance and update our facilities and better serve our communities. “I’d like to thank our staff, partners at Pick Everard and Neilcott Construction, residents and the community of Reigate for their support with this piece of work.” Councillor Natalie Bramhall, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Property, Infrastructure, and Waste said: “We are delighted that Pick Everard are facilitating the upgrades at Wray Park. We are making significant investments in our Fire and Rescue Service to ensure that we are providing Surrey’s firefighters with modern, state-of-the-art facilities which align with our net zero carbon ambitions and are fit for the future.” For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading corporate services provider,NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), has today unveiled a £500m framework agreement designed to help public sector organisations – including the NHS – decarbonise their estates. The new Decarbonisation of Estates framework agreement helps the NHS achieve its ambition of becoming the world’s first net zero national health service, reaching net zero by 2040 for the emissions the NHS controls directly. Work covered under the agreement includes internal and external wall insulation, ground source and air source heat pumps, electric heating solutions, photovoltaic systems, ventilation systems and lighting works as well as traditional works such as replacement of windows and doors, and solutions to tackle damp and mould in domestic properties. The framework agreement has been designed via extensive consultation with the public sector and Greener NHS leads. Importantly, it enables estates managers to create greater value by combining decarbonisation works with their backlog investment works to create cleaner, greener and more attractive estates. Anjub Ali, Senior Category Manager at NHS SBS commented: “With the announcement of over £1bn for public sector decarbonisation in 2024’s Budget, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero confirmed funding for the next wave of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. “This new framework agreement will support the delivery of the NHS’s ambition in ‘Delivering a Net Zero Health Service’ and is a response to the profound and growing threat to health posed by climate change. It is geared towards helping the NHS modernise and decarbonise aged assets and buildings throughout the public sector’s estates.” NHS SBS’s framework agreement allows for both further competition and direct award across seven geographical regions. Both public projects and domestic dwellings are in scope, and the framework agreement can be used by all NHS and wider public sector authorities, including local government and housing associations. Suppliers awarded to the framework agreement include both well-known multinationals and small and medium-sized enterprises. All have been assessed on their ability to reduce the environmental impact of service delivery through the use of ground-breaking equipment, decreased energy and fuel consumption, and the monitoring of data of retrofit projects. For more information about the Decarbonisation of Estates framework agreement contact the NHS SBS team at: sbs.hello@nhs.net. For more information about NHS SBS framework agreements click: Framework Agreements | NHS SBS Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Key announcement set to reduce direct CO2 emissions by up to 90% in line with the Glencar target to reduce Scope 1 emissions by the end of 2025. Glencar, a leading UK based construction company recognised for its past ranking among Europe’s fastest-growing businesses and known for delivering high quality projects across various sectors, most notably in Logistics & Industrial, Life Sciences & Pharma, Data Centres, Commercial, Ports, Film Studios & Leisure and Civils, has today announced its intention to switch to low carbon Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel across all active construction sites from the start of the year and going forward. The major move will see HVO to be used across all site set ups, welfare establishments, and on-site power generation across all of its construction sites. Glencar is one of the first contractors specialising in the Logistics & Industrial sector to mandate the switch to HVO across all sites. HVO is a low carbon biofuel typically made by reacting waste vegetable oils and animal fats with hydrogen to create a fuel suitable for use in diesel engines. The switch to HVO will deliver up to 90% reduction in direct CO2 emissions and 80% in other harmful emissions such as particulate matter. The amount of diesel that Glencar uses annually emits over 720 tonnes of CO2 which accounts for the majority of our Scope 1 carbon emissions which the use of HVO is set to reduce. Speaking about the move Glencar Director of ESG James Scott said: “Our transition to HVO is a major strategic step change that will make an immediate difference and impact on our carbon in construction performance. We estimate a reduction in over 90% in our Scope 1 emissions when every construction site is using HVO. We have set ourselves ambitious targets to achieve Net Zero for Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2025 and 2045 for Scope 3 emissions and this is another important milestone on the journey. We will continue to monitor new technologies and innovation to ensure we are at the forefront of clean and efficient sustainable solutions. The switch to HVO will also give us further confidence in our emissions data that will enable us to track our reductions and performance against our ESG goals, with the knowledge that HVO itself is a sourced product that is certified through collection of feedstock, manufacturing and delivery into the UK terminal using the ISCC scheme, and thereafter using the UK’s RFAS scheme. This ensures that all feedstocks are classed as 100% renewable under the Renewable Energy Directive 2. Whilst we recognise the carbon reduction potential of HVO, we are also aware of the environmental impacts of HVO production and will closely monitor the sustainability of our supply chain. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Households across parts of North West England and Central Scotland can now get free help to plan home improvements that save money on energy bills and carbon emissions, thanks to a new service, Energywise. People can access free impartial advice, online or over the phone, from a team of experts at the Energywise service which officially launched today. Delivered by energy experts Energy Saving Trust and funded by SP Energy Networks, Energywise will help householders identify the best low carbon solutions, such as solar panels or a heat pump, to suit their home, budget and goals. People using the service will receive a comprehensive costed improvement plan, outlining next steps and the option of a free follow up conversation with an expert advisor. The free service also offers help to find funding and certified installers, making it easier to get the work done. Research by Energy Saving Trust has shown that 82% of homeowners in England are interested in making home improvements to reduce their energy bills, however more than a third (39%) are not confident assessing where to start with the process1. Additional research reveals that more than a third of UK adults know nothing about heat pumps, while a quarter think heat pumps are not suitable for UK homes2. With energy prices continuing to climb, and the need to cut domestic carbon emissions to curb the climate emergency, SP Energy Networks is the latest energy distributor to commission Energy Saving Trust to set up support services for the public to encourage action. Laura McGadie, Operations Director at Energy Saving Trust, said: “It’s exciting to be offering this bespoke service to help people choose what’s best for their homes when it comes to low carbon technology. Improving public awareness and understanding of things like heat pumps is a really vital part of the shift we need to make to a net zero society. We know people are willing to make changes, they just want a bit of guidance on where to start, so Energywise is there to help them plan and go on to take positive action.” Energywise is now live for those living in an area of England or Scotland serviced by the SP Energy Networks energy grid. People can check if they live in one of these via the Energy Networks Association postcode checker. To get a free personalised Energywise home improvement plan visit getenergywise.org.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway has won a prestigious award for its strategy to reduce carbon emissions across the business as it helps lead the housebuilding industry towards net zero. The company, which is based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne and builds homes across England, Scotland and Wales, scooped the prize for Best Carbon Reduction Innovation or Practice at the 2024 Building Innovation Awards. The award was presented at a gala dinner and awards ceremony held at The Hilton Deansgate in Manchester on Thursday (17 October). Carbon reduction is central to Bellway’s Better with Bellway sustainability strategy, which aims to put people and the planet first. The company has taken an all-encompassing approach to the delivery of low-carbon homes – through pioneering research, collaboration with the energy industry, and sharing findings and knowledge with the wider housebuilding industry. Bellway has also made highly significant progress towards science-based carbon reduction targets, which have been independently validated by the SBTi. Simon Park, Group Head of Sustainability for Bellway, said: “Carbon reduction forms one of the three key priorities of our over-arching Better with Bellway sustainability strategy and we are delighted that our industry-leading work in the drive towards net zero has been recognised at the Building Innovation Awards. “The ability to deliver carbon reduction at scale is an essential part of Bellway’s low-carbon strategy – in fact, scaling up is the very purpose of it, to ensure the industry can meet the challenges faced by climate change. “We are taking the lessons learned from the experimental Future Home we have built in a climate chamber at The University of Salford – where pioneering research is being conducted on a range of low-carbon technologies – and rolling out this knowledge to live development sites across the country. “Homes heated by air source heat pumps are now being built by each of our divisions and we’re the first national housebuilder to partner with energy provider Octopus on low-carbon Zero Bills homes. “We have also created a Future Hub within four Future Home exemplar plots at our Barton Quarter development in Bolton to provide training for our employees and other small and medium-sized housebuilders on Future Home technologies. This is spreading knowledge and expertise more widely, to help deliver the changes required to meet net-zero targets.” The first results from Bellway’s Future Home at The University of Salford’s Energy House 2.0 facility were published in January this year, showing that the fabric of the house closely reflects the proposed Future Homes Standard. Bellway has also started construction at several ‘no gas’ developments, where air source heat pumps will be installed at every plot. These are at Springstead Village in Cherry Hinton near Cambridge, Ivy Hill in Bacton, Suffolk, and The Willows in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. Meanwhile, Bellway’s first Zero Bills homes have been builtat Victoria Gate in Stafford. Each property features roof-integrated solar panels, a domestic battery and an air source heat pump, alongside Octopus Energy’s Kraken energy management platform. To find out more about Bellway’s sustainability strategy, visit https://sustainability.bellwayplc.co.uk/carbon-reduction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
10 properties at Kedward Avenue in Middlesbrough will be energy efficient and future-proofed for residents. Esh Construction is helping raise the bar for sustainable living in Teesside as it develops 10 net-zero carbon homes for Thirteen Group. Part of an £18 million development known as Kedward Avenue – one of three sites Esh is delivering for Thirteen in Middlesbrough – the new timber-framed homes will feature a raft of state-of-the-art technologies as the housing provider explores net-zero carbon opportunities in the region. Four bungalows and six semi-detached two storey homes will benefit from enhanced insulation, triple-glazed windows, air source heat pumps and a mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) system. Photovoltaic solar panels, battery storage and electric vehicle charging points will also be installed externally. To proclaim a property as net-zero carbon, homes must undergo rigorous energy performance standards testing, to meet a Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) score of two or lower – a much higher requirement than the standard home requirement of 5 or under. Mark Binns, Operations Director for Esh’s affordable housing division, said: “It is a landmark moment for Esh Construction and Thirteen Group to be providing the net zero offer. The project marks a significant step forward in sustainable construction and underlines a shared commitment to delivering future-proofed and energy efficient homes. “These 10 properties won’t use gas, instead the MVHR system, and an air source hot water cylinder will be used to suck air into the properties, while photovoltaic solar panels and electric vehicle charging units will support the energy efficient home management plans.” To prepare the properties for net-zero carbon status, challenges around architectural and design aspects had to be navigated, as well as educating the project team on key protocols. While the remaining properties in the 105-home development will include standard 140mm insulation, the net zero properties include an additional 25mm of insulation bonded to the plasterboard to prevent cold bridging, while insulation depths beneath the concrete are enhanced from 100mm to 150mm. Door frame sizes had to be adapted to allow the MVHR units to be installed and wider pipework had to be catered for. Joy Whinnerah, Thirteen’s Executive Director of Development and Partnerships, said: “We’ve made a firm commitment to becoming a net zero organisation by 2050 and we know we need to innovate and invest to achieve that. “Use of this kind of technology in our homes can be a key part of our net zero roadmap. We’ll be monitoring the performance of these homes very closely so we can learn as much as possible about the effectiveness of the various net zero features and then apply that learning to future development. “Alongside that, we will of course be working closely with our customers to help them get the most from those features.” Mark added: “At Esh, we are on our own journey to become a more sustainable contractor and reduce our carbon emissions with a view to achieving net zero, therefore we are pleased to be supporting our clients with their own ambitions and targets on live schemes.” To find out more about Esh Construction, visit www.eshgroup.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vantage, a sustainable retrofit and principal contracting business, proudly announces the successful completion of its photovoltaic (PV) installation project at The Arches, a new build-to-rent development in Leicester, for the Catella European Residential Fund III (CER III). The project was delivered on budget and a week ahead of schedule. Commissioned by CER III and Catella APAM, the site’s asset managers, Vantage began by assessing The Arches’ energy performance baseline and producing a tailored decarbonisation pathway. The report identified the potential for a significant roof-mount PV array, alongside a selection of other energy and carbon reduction projects. Following an extensive feasibility study – which included a structural assessment as well as planning and Distribution Network Operator (DNO) applications – Vantage executed a comprehensive design and build solution, acting as Principal Contractor for the project. Vantage managed all aspects of the project, including in-house procurement, project management, cost management and construction site oversight. The successful installation now allows The Arches to generate 25% of its total electrical load from on- site renewable energy, significantly decreasing reliance on grid energy and bolstering the asset’s energy performance credentials. Marwin Weber, CER III Fund Manager, commented: “We have integrated a climate strategy into our investment strategy aiming to decarb and adapt at the lowest possible cost point. This is another milestone of our pan-European climate strategy.” Adam Fairless, Managing Director of Vantage, added: “The PV installation marks a significant milestone on the asset’s journey to net zero. We’re thrilled to have delivered this project ahead of schedule and within budget, and look forward to continuing to support CER III on future sustainability enhancements.” Chalwe Silwizya, Asset Manager at Catella APAM, stated, “This project underpins the CER III Fund’s commitment to reducing its climate impact and increasing the energy efficiency of its portfolio. This is one of several initiatives being undertaken at The Arches as part of our ESG strategy, to adapt to the changing climate and occupier demands” For enquiries about the Vantage turn-key decarbonization model or if you’re interested in enhancing your assets EPC rating please contact us at info@vantagezero.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The National Home Decarbonisation Group, in partnership with Futurebuild and Innovate UK, has launched its Big Retrofit Challenge, a bold new competition aimed at unearthing game-changing solutions in home decarbonisation. The Big Retrofit Challenge offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and companies to showcase their innovations in front of key industry players and get their ideas to the market. The innovations that come through the competition should aim to either directly address central challenges to the sector or improve wider processes for the delivery of projects that help consumers live in healthier homes, tackling issues such as exposure to damp and mould and alleviating fuel poverty. The judges are looking for innovations that go beyond just products, including new systems, approaches, solutions, and processes that contribute to creating healthier homes. Entries are open to UK-registered businesses that have an annual turnover of £15 million or less, with priority being given to less established organisations. The submitted solutions must be suitable for retrofitting or renovating existing homes or non-residential properties. While solutions designed for new builds are also welcome, they must demonstrate applicability to retrofit projects as well. Six shortlisted winners will have the chance to pitch their solutions on stage at Futurebuild’s National Retrofit Conference, and attend a networking morning to showcase their innovation to NHDG members with each winner having allocated slots to network directly with its members. Winners will also be given the exciting opportunity to discuss with NHDG members the potential of piloting their technology on a live decarbonisation scheme, accelerating their path to market and turning ideas into reality. It offers shortlisted winners a unique opportunity to actively work with the private sector to deliver retrofit. Paul Rogers, National Decarbonisation Manager at CLC Group, and member of the National Home Decarbonisation Group who are managing The Big Retrofit Challenge on behalf of the team, said: “By collaborating on the Big Retrofit Challenge, we are supporting the discovery and implementation of solutions that address the urgent need for greener, healthier homes. This competition will help unlock innovations that reduce fuel poverty, improve living conditions, and advance the UK’s decarbonisation agenda.” Mat Colmer from Innovate UK, and Senior Innovation Lead for Construction and Net Zero Heat at UK Research and Innovation, also commented on the competition: “Innovation is key to solving the complex challenges we face in home decarbonisation. The Big Retrofit Challenge provides a crucial opportunity for cutting-edge solutions to be tested and scaled, ultimately helping the UK meet its net zero targets while improving the quality of housing for consumers.” Martin Hurn, Event Director at Futurebuild, said: “The Big Retrofit Challenge is about turning bold ideas into impactful solutions. We are excited to partner with Innovate UK and the National Home Decarbonisation Group to create a powerful platform where innovators can showcase their game-changing technologies that will accelerate the decabonisation of homes across the UK.” The Big Retrofit Challenge is an inspiring step towards transforming the UK’s housing sector and achieving net zero goals. By fostering bold innovation and collaboration, the competition aims to deliver real-world solutions that will make an impact on the environment and communities across the country. Enter now for your chance to make a real impact. Further criteria and guidelines are found on the application form. The competition will close at 11am on Thursday 28th November 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Virgin Media O2 has signed a commitment to invest in a new state-of-the art office space in central Manchester, agreeing a contract with Island that will see the new and innovative net zero carbon workspace become the company’s central Manchester office location from late next year. With the lease of its Wythenshawe office due to expire in early 2026, Virgin Media O2 undertook a comprehensive review of its property options in the area, drawing up a shortlist of several properties within 10 miles of central Manchester that could act as a base for employees to get together in person, while also supporting Virgin Media O2’s flexible working policies. Island, a net zero carbon workspace being developed by joint venture partners HBD (part of Henry Boot plc) and Greater Manchester Pensions Fund, was the company’s preferred choice, with employees set to benefit from excellent local amenities and in-building facilities. The site has strong transport links, excellent cycle storage and shower facilities, and features a rooftop terrace among its 12,500 sq ft of communal spaces, which include a wide range of food and drink options for employees. Among the teams moving to Island will be Virgin Media O2’s multi-skilled customer service teams who provide bespoke and specialist support on a range of customer issues, including sales and retentions, service issues, bereavement and telecare support. Having first moved to Wythenshawe in 1991, this new agreement with Island further extends Virgin Media O2’s long-term association with, and investment in, the Manchester area. Island is targeting an Excellent BREEAM Sustainable Building Certification, demonstrating the innovative strategies and green technologies it uses to achieve an exceptional level of environmental performance. A net-zero workspace from day one, Island’s sustainable features include centralised air handling units and demand-controlled CO2 sensors to improve indoor air quality, 350m² of solar panels, real-time energy consumption data screens, efficient lifts and LED lighting. This major investment from Virgin Media O2 will provide a modern, future-proof space for its people to meet and collaborate in the North West, consistent with the company’s flexible working policies. Virgin Media O2 will provide clear communication and support for employees currently based at Wythenshawe to ensure a smooth transition next year. Patricia Cobian, Virgin Media O2’s Chief Financial Officer, said: “This significant investment demonstrates our commitment to retaining a sizeable presence in Manchester, with a flagship new office that places us in the heart of the city’s thriving technology hub. “The state-of-the art office will provide a vibrant space for our employees in the North West to get together in person and collaborate, meeting our needs now and helping to attract future talent. Improving our people’s experience was a key focus in the selection process, and Island offers our employees a wide range of amenities and facilities that are not currently available to them. “With enviable environmental credentials and excellent transport links, this move will help reduce our carbon emissions and make it easier than ever for our employees to choose more environmentally-friendly modes of transport.” Ed Hutchinson, Managing Director at HBD, said: “Virgin Media O2’s decision to invest in Island and call this remarkable building its new home in Manchester is testament to the exceptional space we have created here. Island has been carefully designed around the needs of the occupier. Not only is it a highly intelligent and sustainable building, but it’s one which prioritises people’s health and well-being. Virgin Media O2’s values are perfectly aligned with ours and we’re proud to welcome them to Island. “At Island Virgin Media O2 will enjoy a building which has achieved Well Building Gold Rating. Designed to ensure that occupiers can be highly inclusive, Island features design elements and spaces which support neurodiversity, people of different faiths and gender identification as well as spaces for nursing mothers. “There is strong interest in the remaining space that is available at Island, with plenty of options to join Virgin Media O2 across the remaining four floors.” Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “It’s very positive to see Virgin Media O2 bring their new North West HQ to Manchester in a state-of-the-art facility with net-zero carbon workspaces that enhance our carbon neutral plans. This multi-million-pound investment will bring a significant boost to the city-region and highlights Greater Manchester as a place where companies want to invest.” Island will become Virgin Media O2’s third major new office space since the merger in June 2021. The company is currently preparing to move teams into a new state-of-the-art HQ in Paddington by the end of the year, while it was recently confirmed that staff in Lanarkshire will transfer to a new office in Maxim Park in early 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
