Spencer Bridge Engineering has been recognised for its outstanding work on two iconic bridges at separate industry awards ceremonies. The company has won awards for projects on Union Chain Bridge and Menai Suspension Bridge. Spencer Bridge Engineering completed a programme of essential works to preserve Union Chain Bridge linking England
It is difficult to imagine improving the incredible views over Lake Windermere, in Cumbria’s Lake District. Yet Kendal-based groundworks contractor Andrew Harvey does just that, providing a range of groundworks services, hard and soft landscaping, external works and construction up to DPC, for many customers in the area. The company
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has awarded its first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer (CIE) title to Chris Landsburgh, a Decarbonisation Director at infrastructure consulting firm AECOM. Chris has been involved in the infrastructure sector for over 10 years and specialises in decarbonising infrastructure. He provides advice on net zero plans,
hyperTunnel, a technology company innovating underground construction methods, has signed an exclusive distributor agreement (EDA) with AmcoGiffen for the application of its technologies and systems in the UK rail sector. Under the EDA, AmcoGiffen will have exclusive rights to use hyperTunnel technology – including digital twins, robotics, 3D printing and
The Government has announced that works have began on the Lowdham Cocker Beck Flood Alleviation Scheme, a Nottinghamshire flood scheme. The new £26 million flood storage reservoir will protect homes and businesses in the Nottinghamshire village. Environment agency officials, local MPs, councillors and members of the local flood action group
Major repairs to a Grade II listed bridge are progressing on schedule according to North of England contractor, Esh Construction, who is delivering the project on behalf of East Riding of Yorkshire Council. A 15-week scheme to deliver emergency repair and strengthening works to the structure got underway in July
In a move to prioritise the well-being and comfort of its employees, Blackwell Earthmoving has enlisted the services of Roadshow Promotions. The promotional bus specialists have provided a fleet of single and double-decker buses for site welfare for Blackwell’s major earthwork projects. Roadshow Promotions, the UK’s leading provider of promotional buses,
Leading civil engineering and building contractor Farrans Construction has launched its application process for 50 high-demand positions on its industry leading graduate programme, Farrans Foundation, with intake dates in June and September 2024. Farrans Foundation is an award-winning, two year graduate programme which provides applicants with the necessary experience and
Leading multi utility connections provider, Aptus, is celebrating five years of its Burntwood depot which opened in the Midlands in 2018. Since its inception half a decade ago, Aptus’ Midlands team has secured over 250 contracts worth more than £50 million in value, including the award of 87 lighting projects.
Knights Brown has been awarded the contract to build Cardiff’s new coastal flood defence system in south-east Cardiff. The scheme, on the Rover Way foreshore and the banks of the River Rhymney, has been designed to protect properties from the impact of extreme weather events, and from rising sea levels
Spencer Bridge Engineering has been recognised for its outstanding work on two iconic bridges at separate industry awards ceremonies. The company has won awards for projects on Union Chain Bridge and Menai Suspension Bridge. Spencer Bridge Engineering completed a programme of essential works to preserve Union Chain Bridge linking England and Scotland, which is more than 200 years old. The crossing over the River Tweed from Horncliffe in Northumberland to Fishwick in Berwickshire has a single span of 449ft (137m) and was the longest wrought iron suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1820. Spencer Bridge Engineering was appointed by Northumberland County Council to dismantle the bridge and carry out a complete refurbishment and rebuild. A key element of the project was to ensure modifications were in keeping with the historical significance of the bridge. This included restoring, rather than replacing, the suspension chains wherever possible and using stone from the original quarry to repair masonry work on the bridge’s two towers. Spencer Bridge Engineering has been named both the ‘Gold Winner’ of the Restoration Project of the Year Award and the ‘Silver Winner’ of the Community Engagement Award for the Union Chain Bridge project at the National Building and Construction Awards 2023. It received the Community Engagement Award for its commitment to working closely with partners and stakeholders throughout. These included Northumberland County Council, the Scottish Borders Council, Museums Northumberland and the Friends of Union Chain Bridge. The Spencer Bridge Engineering team became a part of the community it worked in, taking time to help residents with roof repairs, handing out firewood, building a community bar at a local village hall and even providing medical assistance to a resident living near the bridge. Spencer Bridge Engineering has also been recognised for emergency works carried out on the Grade I listed Menai Suspension Bridge, the second oldest operational vehicular suspension bridge in the world. The bridge crosses the Menai Strait between the island of Anglesey and mainland North Wales and, when opened in 1826, it had the longest span in the world at 176m. It was designed by prolific road, bridge and canal builder Thomas Telford, who became the first President of the Institution of Civil Engineers. The bridge was immediately closed to vehicular traffic on October 21st, 2022 after a safety issue related to potential hanger failure was identified. Spencer Bridge Engineering rapidly designed, procured and installed secondary fail-safes at strategic hanger locations, enabling the bridge to be reopened on schedule on February 1st, 2023. In partnership with UK Highways A55, COWI, and the Welsh Government, Spencer Bridge Engineering has now won both the Infrastructure Project of the Year Award and the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Award at the Welsh Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) Awards 2023. Luke Fisher, Director of Spencer Bridge Engineering, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have been honoured with these prestigious awards across two separate awards ceremonies. “These awards further reinforce Spencer Bridge Engineering’s reputation as a leading specialist bridge works company. “Our expertise, experience and wide-ranging capabilities across the company mean we’re a partner that can be trusted to deliver for our clients. “I’d like to congratulate the team on their tremendous work that’s lead to this recognition.” Spencer Bridge Engineering is part of Hull-based multi-disciplinary engineering specialists Spencer Group. To find out more about its expertise, visit www.thespencergroup.co.uk/our-work/bridges/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
It is difficult to imagine improving the incredible views over Lake Windermere, in Cumbria’s Lake District. Yet Kendal-based groundworks contractor Andrew Harvey does just that, providing a range of groundworks services, hard and soft landscaping, external works and construction up to DPC, for many customers in the area. The company completes that work with a range of compact machines, including the latest 2.5-tonne CASE CX25D and a 9.0-tonne CX90D, both recently supplied by local CASE Construction Equipment dealer Dennis Barnfield of Carnforth. The CASE mini and midi excavators are equipped with Engcon tilt-rotators and the company has a Digitec iDig 2D machine guidance system, that can be used with either model, to maximise versatility and productivity on site. Mr Harvey is no stranger to the CASE Construction Equipment brand. Initially from an agricultural background, he started the groundworks business in 1997, with a CASE 580 backhoe loader and has been using machinery from Dennis Barnfield since that time. “The support from the whole team at Dennis Barnfield over the last 25 years has given us the confidence to specify the machines the way they are today,” said Mr Harvey. “We know from our own experience that we’ve got a reliable product and a dealer that will back us up if there is ever an issue. That in itself is almost priceless to a smaller business in today’s climate.” Both excavators have been built to the company’s own specification, with additional counterweight on the smaller CX25D to offset the weight of the tilt-rotator. The CX90D is equipped with rubber bolt-on track pads, allowing the machine to work on finished driveways. Both machines have extra LED lighting, on top of that supplied by Dennis Barnfield to all CASE excavators, for maximum visibility in poor weather and light conditions. Perhaps most strikingly, the firm has had the side and rear glazing tinted, to prevent glare in the cab on sunny days. This modification has proven so popular with other businesses in the area, that Dennis Barnfield has already been asked if it can provide a similar specification. Mr Harvey’s son Mark, who joined the company four years ago, is also driving forward the use of technology within the business, including the investment in the tilt-rotators and the machine guidance system. The company has a growing range of attachments to suit the Engcon tilt-rotators, including pallet forks and a grading bar, which may soon be joined by a materials handling grab. “It’s just a completely different way of working,” said Andrew Harvey. “We looked at another brand, but we wanted to be sure of dealer back-up. We’d had the CASE machines supplied byDennis Barnfield and they are training up an engineer on the Engcon tilt-rotators, so we will have someone to talk to if necessary.” The company purchased its first 8.0-tonne CASE excavator in 2006 and had moved up to a 13-tonne model in the past. However, the CX90D offers the perfect combination of size, power and reach for Harvey’s mainly residential contracts. Having the main boom mounted in front of the upper structure, with an offset facility, also makes the CX90D ideal for tighter working conditions and, when combined with the tilt-rotator, it is possible to operate a cross a wider envelope around the machine, rather than relocate on the tracks. “The 9.0-tonne machine has bags of reach and it’s really stable,” said Andrew Harvey. “We can lift a full pack of blocks over the side on pallet forks, even with the Engcon tilt-rotator. It’s got the dozer blade as well, which makes it perfect for us.” Mark Harvey added: “The D-Series is a lot lighter on fuel than our previous machine. We are saving 1-1.5 litres an hour against the C Series. It’s fast and it’s smooth, you really can’t knock it.” With five full time staff, the business operates within a 20-mile radius of Kendal, in Cumbria. It has plenty of return business, though there is no intention to expand further in the short term. “We’re lucky, we are well established in Windermere, Ambleside and Bowness and we don’t need to get a lot bigger. We like to have a family relationship with our clients,” said Mark Harvey. It’s a similar story with the CASE dealer, as Dennis Barnfield works closely with the company to ensure that the machines are regularly serviced and maintained. “We’ve been happy with the dealer back-up since 1997,” said Mr Harvey. Quick SpecificationsCX25DOperating weight (with cab): 2,710kgEngine power: 13.7kW (18.6hp)Maximum digging depth: 2,700mmBucket breakout force: 22kNArm breakout force: 14.5kN CX90DOperating weight: 8,360kgEngine power: 50.7kW (68hp)Maximum digging depth: 4,590mmBucket breakout force: 56.9kNArm breakout force: 39.5kN Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has awarded its first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer (CIE) title to Chris Landsburgh, a Decarbonisation Director at infrastructure consulting firm AECOM. Chris has been involved in the infrastructure sector for over 10 years and specialises in decarbonising infrastructure. He provides advice on net zero plans, whole life carbon accounting, and sustainability strategies for governments and businesses. Already a Chartered Environmentalist, he was formerly an ICE President’s Future Leader under past president Paul Sheffield, is an ICE Carbon Champion and was involved in creating the PAS 2080 standard for carbon management in infrastructure. The CIE title is the first new title to be awarded since 1923 when the first Chartered Engineer titles were awarded. What is a Chartered Infrastructure Engineer? The CIE title was acquired by the ICE in response to the recommendations made by Professor John Uff in his 2016 review of UK engineering. Professor Uff observed that a significant number of academically qualified, practising engineers were operating outside the Professional Engineering Institution structure. In the report he recommended these engineers become professionally qualified to help assure the public that the engineers who are delivering the infrastructure they use daily are current, credible, and competent. The CIE title, the introduction of which was approved by members in 2022, allows the ICE to professionally qualify engineers involved in all aspects of infrastructure delivery and welcome them into its membership. The introduction of this new title acknowledges the changing needs of an industry which has been transformed by innovation, new technologies, and a desire to build a more inclusive and sustainable world through multi-disciplinary collaboration. How does someone become a Chartered Infrastructure Engineer? CIE candidates must participate in a similarly rigorous process as Chartered Civil Engineer candidates. The same assessment standard and methodology is applied but tailored towards the CIE candidate’s specialism. This process includes submitting documentary evidence of competence and professional commitment, passing a written communication task and interviewing with at least two professional qualified reviewers. One reviewer is a civil engineer, the other has knowledge of the CIE candidate’s specialism. Chartered Infrastructure Engineers will help society meet engineering challenges Chris Landsburgh said,‘The ICE has been a professional home for several years, and becoming the first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer is an honour. ‘This new title fosters a culture of inclusivity and collaboration and reflects the industry’s commitment to evolve. ‘Drawing on the collective knowledge of many disciplines will set the industry and society up well to navigate the challenges we’re facing such as climate change and the need to decarbonise infrastructure’. ICE President Keith Howells said, ‘I’m delighted to conclude my tenure as ICE President with the announcement that Chris Landsburgh has become the institution’s first Chartered Infrastructure Engineer. ‘Awarding this new protected title follows years of discussion about modernising and broadening the ICE to become a professional home for all those working in infrastructure. ‘The Engineering Council, HM Privy Council and others all required assurance that this new title was needed and that the highest standards of professional review would be met. ‘All believed that introducing the title aligned with the ICE’s mission to ensure that the world has the infrastructure it needs to thrive.’ ‘I look forward to welcoming many more like Chris in the future’. AECOM’s chief executive for Europe & India, Colin Wood said, ‘I know I speak for many in our industry in warmly welcoming the new title of Chartered Infrastructure Engineer. ‘As we collaborate to solve the important challenges of our time, such as decarbonisation and resilience, it is right that we recognise the valuable expertise and experience of our colleagues who haven’t specifically taken a civil engineering route, but whose professional capability is instrumental to the outcomes we are working to achieve. ‘Huge congratulations to Chris on this achievement’. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
hyperTunnel, a technology company innovating underground construction methods, has signed an exclusive distributor agreement (EDA) with AmcoGiffen for the application of its technologies and systems in the UK rail sector. Under the EDA, AmcoGiffen will have exclusive rights to use hyperTunnel technology – including digital twins, robotics, 3D printing and digital underground surveying, supported by AI and VR – for all enhancements, repair, rehabilitation and monitoring of underground spaces, slopes and track bed infrastructure, including stabilisation and water management. hyperTunnel launched exclusive distributor licensing agreements in 2022. EDAs provide engineering contractors the opportunity to differentiate themselves by offering hyperTunnel technologies exclusively within certain applications, sectors and territories. The solutions, which enable the highly efficient building, enlarging, repairing and monitoring of underground structures, allow license holders to increase their operating margins and grow market share while reducing environmental impact. “Construction and maintenance companies are consumed day-to-day with delivering against contracts on tight margins,” commented Steve Jordan, co-CEO of hyperTunnel. “Yet, at the same time, they need to develop sustainable innovations that will take their businesses forward, potentially leading the next technological leap. “Through this EDA, AmcoGiffen can tap into our approaches and methodologies, R&D investment and industry experts from day one. It is a win-win – our products are commercially ready and in AmcoGiffen we have a partner that will allow us to get robots into the ground quickly and prove the hyperTunnel method in an unforgiving commercial and operational environment.” Owned by Renew Holdings Plc and publicly listed on the London Stock Exchange, AmcoGiffen specialises in the design and delivery of innovative and complex multi-disciplinary engineering, construction and maintenance services across the transport, energy and environmental sectors. Dave Thomas, Operations Director at AmcoGiffen added: “We are convinced that the future of maintaining underground structures lies in robotics and automation. AmcoGiffen is equipped and ready to partner with hyperTunnel to pioneer its approaches in the UK rail sector while being fully aware of the challenges that may lie ahead for an early adopter of such exciting technology. This exclusive contract represents a significant business opportunity for AmcoGiffen and reflects our long-term ambition to lead innovation in the UK rail sector.” To discover more about hyperTunnel and becoming a technology distributor, contact distributor@hypertunnel.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Government has announced that works have began on the Lowdham Cocker Beck Flood Alleviation Scheme, a Nottinghamshire flood scheme. The new £26 million flood storage reservoir will protect homes and businesses in the Nottinghamshire village. Environment agency officials, local MPs, councillors and members of the local flood action group attended an official ground-breaking ceremony. The flood storage area will be able to hold up to 100,000 cubic meters of water when the Cocker Beck floods. Construction work will involve cutting into an embankment of the Cocker Beck and using compacted soil and ultra-low carbon concrete to create a raised reservoir. Moreover, trees will be planted on the site as well as the creation of three hectares of new woodland nearby. Paul Lockhart, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency said: “We are delighted that we are now in the position of being able to commence the construction of a major Flood Alleviation Scheme to protect the people of Lowdham. “The reservoir we are building will provide a very high level of protection against flooding to 191 properties, and it represents excellent value for money for the taxpayer. “We would not have been able to achieve this without the long-term support of the MP for Newark, Robert Jenrick MP, our local authority partners (Nottinghamshire County Council and Newark and Sherwood District Council), the members of the Trent Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, and, most importantly, the local community Flood Action Group (FLAG) and the Parish Council, who have been very supportive throughout the process.” The Rt Hon Mark Spencer MP for Sherwood and Minister for Food, Farming and Fisheries said: “As a serving Defra Minister, and local MP, I am acutely aware of the distress and cost that flooding causes to our communities. “This £26m Reservoir Scheme will provide a very significant level of protection from flooding to the community and will, I’m sure, give confidence to the people of Lowdham so they will be able to carry on with their lives without the constant worry of future flooding.” The scheme that will generate £50 million for the local economy will be completed in Spring 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Major repairs to a Grade II listed bridge are progressing on schedule according to North of England contractor, Esh Construction, who is delivering the project on behalf of East Riding of Yorkshire Council. A 15-week scheme to deliver emergency repair and strengthening works to the structure got underway in July after the stone bridge, which carries the A163 over the River Derwent, was hit by a car in September 2022, causing significant damage to the headwall and parapet. The first phase of works saw the installation of an encapsulated scaffold which allowed grit blasting, steel girder reinforcement and masonry repairs to the parapets to be carried out safely. At the half way point, masonry repairs which include the use of steel staples to pin the stonework together for additional strength are now complete, and the steel girders have been refurbished. The next critical phase will see specialist vacuum excavation works undertaken to remove the fill from the eastern and western bridge arches, this will allow steel anchors and concrete infill to be installed to further strengthen the structure. Steven Garrigan, divisional director for Esh Construction’s civil engineering division, said: “We are pleased with progress to date and remain on schedule. “We understand the strain the closure of the bridge is having on the local area and as such made a commitment to procure local suppliers and sub-contractors where possible to do so given the specialist nature of some of the trades required. I am delighted to report that more than half of the contract value has been re-invested within 20 miles of the site. “While we have overcame any obstacles so far to allow us to remain on programme, we would like to remind everyone that the risk of uncovering further structural issues still remains high, but we are working collaboratively with East Riding of Yorkshire Council to ensure they are fully informed every step of the way.” Adam Holmes, director of infrastructure and facilities at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “We are pleased with the progress of the repair and strengthening works on this bridge project. “We’d like to thank Esh Construction for being so accommodating with its work schedules to help speed up this work so we could plan for the bridge to be reopened sooner, and for its support of local businesses during this scheme.” Additional work to be delivered in the coming weeks includes the installation of a vehicle restraint system to prevent any future damage of a similar nature, as well as kerbing, ducting, surfacing and road marking. Originally built in 1798 and a Grade II listed structure, all repairs undertaken are sympathetic to the existing bridge and its surroundings. The project is due to complete at the end of October 2023. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a move to prioritise the well-being and comfort of its employees, Blackwell Earthmoving has enlisted the services of Roadshow Promotions. The promotional bus specialists have provided a fleet of single and double-decker buses for site welfare for Blackwell’s major earthwork projects. Roadshow Promotions, the UK’s leading provider of promotional buses, worked alongside the earthworks contractor to deliver well-being buses to their sites. The buses will serve as multipurpose facilities, accommodating offices, canteens, rest areas, and changing rooms. The buses are being used to enhance working conditions, allowing colleagues to enjoy meals, take breaks, and rest in a comfortable and convenient environment. Recognising the importance of providing adequate facilities for their workforce, Blackwell Earthmoving made a significant investment in this initiative. Blackwell’s Construction Manager Nick Drage expressed his satisfaction with Roadshow Promotions, particularly highlighting the assistance provided by Stuart Greenley who has over 30 years of experience in running promotional bus tours. Nick said: “Stuart’s efficiency and responsiveness ensured a smooth collaboration, with the first bus delivered to the site within a remarkable five working days from the initial contact.” In response to the challenging weather conditions at the time, Roadshow worked closely with Blackwell Earthmoving to create a bespoke drying unit in a standalone static vehicle. This innovative solution proved invaluable for what was one of the wettest summers on record. The buses are providing an effective use of resources as work progresses along the site and they are able to move, providing a dynamic and ecofriendly solution. The arrival of the buses on-site has generated enthusiasm among the Blackwell Earthmoving team. The enhanced welfare facilities not only promote a more comfortable work environment but also foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork among colleagues. Natasha Greenley, Director of Roadshow Promotions, commended the initiative, saying: “With this forward-thinking approach to employee welfare, Blackwell Earthmoving continues to set a positive example for the construction industry. By prioritising the needs and well-being of their workforce, they aim to increase productivity and job satisfaction, ultimately leading to successful project outcomes. We’re delighted to support them and look forward to working together to ensure the comfort and welfare of the site’s employees across their sites.” Specialising in earthworks contracting, consultancy and restoration services, Blackwell Earthmoving has worked on a number of the country’s significant infrastructure projects. The company provides a range of earthworks services including site clearance and preparation, bulk earthmoving, excavation, landfill engineering and soil stabilisation. Blackwells has a large and modern fleet of plant and equipment as well as experienced and qualified staff. Companies can get a quote for a bus tour in under a minute here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading civil engineering and building contractor Farrans Construction has launched its application process for 50 high-demand positions on its industry leading graduate programme, Farrans Foundation, with intake dates in June and September 2024. Farrans Foundation is an award-winning, two year graduate programme which provides applicants with the necessary experience and knowledge to fast track their career in construction, quantity surveying and civil engineering. With a blend of classroom-based learning and on-site experience, this is the starting point on the journey to becoming the future leaders of Farrans. This year, Farrans will be hosting a series of virtual career open days in September, October and November for those people who are interested in finding out more about what it is like to be a graduate or a placement in the company. Farrans Construction, a CRH company, has over 80 years’ experience of delivering world-class projects across the UK and Ireland. The company which employs more than 600 people has offices in Cambridge, Edinburgh, Leeds and Belfast with further site offices connecting its regional network. Dominic Lavery, Managing Director of Farrans, said: “We understand that the move from education to employment can be a big step and we want to make the experience as enjoyable as we can. Our graduate programme, which has recently been CPD Accredited by Engineers Ireland, will provide you with all of the necessary experience and knowledge you need at the start of your career. We will support you to begin your journey to become Chartered with your relevant professional body and, with over 60% of our professional employees Chartered, we are able to give you all the help, guidance and support required to attain your professional qualification. “We receive a high volume of applications for our programme so I recommend that anyone who is interested should join a virtual open day to find out what we look for in our graduates and placements and to take your time to make your application the best it can be.” Conor McCourt, senior engineer and Farrans Foundation Graduate, said: “Farrans Foundation is a graduate programme that provides you with an opportunity to learn about all aspects of the business so that you understand the ‘why’ of the work that you are doing. It certainly made me more commercially astute, taught me time management skills and opened my eyes to the many career paths I could take. University focuses on the theory while Farrans Foundation provides a framework to excel on the ground. “One of the major benefits is that you are able to make connections with colleagues at many levels. The programme gave me a support network of experienced professionals to call on for help if I need it. Skills from Farrans Foundation can be easily transferred to working towards Chartership.” For more information, to register for an virtual open day and to submit an application to Farrans’ Graduate and Placement Programme visit: www.farrans.com/graduates/ and www.farrans.com/placements/ Virtual open days will take place on 27th September from 5-6pm, 18th October from 1-2pm and on 23rd November from 4-5pm. Register here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading multi utility connections provider, Aptus, is celebrating five years of its Burntwood depot which opened in the Midlands in 2018. Since its inception half a decade ago, Aptus’ Midlands team has secured over 250 contracts worth more than £50 million in value, including the award of 87 lighting projects. During that time the site has also gone from having one team to a 40-strong workforce, and counts Taylor Wimpey, David Wilson Homes and Bellway among its roster of over 80 clients. Another reflection of the site’s success can be seen in the number of plots they’ve secured too – more than 15,000. The Midlands arm of Aptus was also trusted to novate all of Western Power Distribution’s existing schemes when they exited the market. This was based on the recommendation of the adopting network providers to Western Power Distribution, highlighting Aptus’ standing and reputation in the Midlands. The team at Burntwood is led by Midlands General Manager Jon Patrick, who has reflected on the depot’s first five years and spoken about plans for the future: “I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made at Burntwood. A lot has changed since I took on the role in 2018 with one team and project manager working under my direction. “To have secured over 250 contracts and worked with more than 80 clients is a real testament to the team. We never rest on our laurels at Aptus though and are determined to keep growing the Midlands arm of the business. Here’s to the next five years!” Aptus designs, builds and installs gas, water, electricity and street lighting infrastructure for housing developers and construction clients. Operating from its Bolton headquarters, Aptus has regional depots across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Knights Brown has been awarded the contract to build Cardiff’s new coastal flood defence system in south-east Cardiff. The scheme, on the Rover Way foreshore and the banks of the River Rhymney, has been designed to protect properties from the impact of extreme weather events, and from rising sea levels for the next 100 years. The scheme adheres to Cardiff Council’s adopted shoreline management plan of “hold the line” and has been approved by The Welsh Government via the coastal risk management programme. Now this process is complete with the contract awarded, work is expected to start on site later this year and will take approximately 3 years to complete. The total cost of the project is expected to be in the region of £35 million, with the majority of funding provided by Welsh Government. When built, the scheme will deliver: And it will: The scheme will deliver an effective flood defence while minimising impact on wildlife and improving the walking route forming part of the Wales Coastal Path, which links to existing public rights of way. Cllr Caro Wild, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change has welcomed the progress of the scheme, and said: “Cardiff is already starting to feel the effects of our changing climate and as a coastal city flooding has become an increasingly significant risk as sea levels rise and extreme weather events become more frequent. “Enhancing our coastal flood defences is a key priority, especially in areas where residential properties are potentially at risk. “Through our One Planet Cardiff strategy, we’re making good process on reducing the Council’s own carbon emissions, ensuring we’re playing our part in limiting global temperature rises, but proactive steps like this scheme on the foreshore and River Rhymney, are also essential if we are to ensure Cardiff is resilient enough to cope in years to come.” The One Planet Cardiff strategy sets out a range of ways in which Cardiff is moving towards being carbon neutral, including: reducing energy consumption and energy efficiency in council buildings, increasing the supply of renewable energy, shifting to more sustainable and active modes of transport, reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions from purchased goods and services, making smarter choices to waste less and recycle more, and increasing opportunities to absorb emissions through green infrastructure and tree planting. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
