Trades & Services : Construct & Build News
Final phase of restoration of the Warburg Institute begins

Final phase of restoration of the Warburg Institute begins

The final phase of an ambitious 18-month project to refurbish the renowned Warburg Institute in Woburn Square, central London started in September 2023. The institute has been part of the University of London since 1944 and is one of the world’s leading centres for research and teaching on the interaction

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New internships will provide vital skills for those looking to pursue careers in construction

New internships will provide vital skills for those looking to pursue careers in construction

As part of its commitment to upskilling the next generation, McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), has welcomed four new interns to its construction division, helping young individuals to gain valuable experience and strengthen their skill set. Apprentice planner, Tommy Bordicott; trainee quantity surveyor, Robbie Yusuf; trainee quantity surveyor Ellie Marnell

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Fortis Vision expands team with landmark appointments

Fortis Vision expands team with landmark appointments

Nationwide refurbishment contractor, Fortis Vision, has welcomed seven new team members into brand new positions as part of its national growth strategy. Tom Lewis – a new quantity surveyor, Tracy Lamont – a new project coordinator and Sam Wise – a new HR manager have joined the business this spring.

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Construction firm continues to build on education refurbishment portfolio

Construction firm continues to build on education refurbishment portfolio

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter has carried out more than £3.5 million pounds worth of specialist refurbishment works in the education sector, whilst schools and colleges were closed for the summer holidays. Alongside a strong work bank of new-build education works across the region totalling more than

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Mace confirmed for Landsec Timber Square

Mace confirmed for the Landsec Timber Square

Mace has been selected as the main contractor for the Landsec Timber Square redevelopment on Lavington Street in Southwark. The announcement confirms Landsec’s commitment to delivering the project in full and will progress Landsec’s ambition to deliver a one million sq ft green office cluster in Southwark. The redevelopment of

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Willmott Dixon appointed at Copr Bay project

Willmott Dixon appointed at Copr Bay project

Swansea Council has appointed Willmott Dixon to complete work at the Copr Bay district after the original contractor, Buckingham Group, went into administration. The Copr Bay scheme covers the area of the former St David’s Shopping Centre and across the new bridge over Oystermouth Road to Swansea Arena and the

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McLaren Construction appointed on £8bn Procure Partnerships Framework

McLaren Construction appointed on £8bn Procure Partnerships Framework

McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) has been appointed to two of the four lots awarded to McLaren nationally on the £8bn Procure Partnerships Framework. Procure Partnerships Framework has operated a national contractor framework for the last four years across 11 regions, and this second iteration covers four disciplines; construction, decarbonisation

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

Trades : Construct & Build News

Final phase of restoration of the Warburg Institute begins

Final phase of restoration of the Warburg Institute begins

The final phase of an ambitious 18-month project to refurbish the renowned Warburg Institute in Woburn Square, central London started in September 2023. The institute has been part of the University of London since 1944 and is one of the world’s leading centres for research and teaching on the interaction of ideas, images and society. Leading contractor Quinn London is working with architects Haworth Tompkins to realise the vision to renovate and expand the long-neglected building, which was designed in 1958 by architect Charles Holden. The building is being refurbished and extended to secure its future, provide more space and make it more accessible to the public. The institute has a rich history. Pioneering historian Aby Warburg, the eldest son of one of Europe’s great banking families, founded a private library in Hamburg in 1900. He famously made a deal with his younger brother to forfeit his right to take over the family firm, provided that his brother would provide him with all the books he ever needed. When the Nazis rose to power in 1933, the vast library was relocated to England and today is the only institution saved from Nazi Germany to survive intact. The current library holds 360,000 volumes of books and a photographic collection of more than 400,000 images. The three-phase project started in July 2022 and completion is estimated for early 2024. In the first two phases, the four upper floors were refurbished and areas opened out to accommodate the growing library over the next 20 years. Existing materials were used wherever possible and features including doors, joinery and skirtings were retained to maintain the ambience of the original building. Essential repairs were also made to the façade, roof and services. The institute has remained open to the public throughout the project and the books in the library  remained on site. Close communication with the institute ensured these valuable assets were protected and minimised disruption by setting fixed ‘noisy times’ for the works. The current phase involves redesigning the ground and lower ground floors. A new extension is being built in the existing courtyard to house a 140-seat lecture theatre above a new reading room for the archive and photographic collection, together with a new and improved exhibition space. The concrete frame of the extension has been especially challenging, as Alex Butt, site manager at Quinn London explains: “The architects set an extremely high bar for the visual impact of the concrete frame. As concrete is extremely difficult to control it took many meetings to decide the best type of concrete to use. We settled on self-compacting concrete for its ability to flow under its own weight and to fill the formwork completely with no need for vibration. The sharp lines for the frame and columns were very tricky to achieve, but we are all very pleased with the result which delivers the required aesthetic impact.” A standout feature of the expanded lecture theatre is a large concrete elliptical lantern on the soffit, around a metre in depth, which features both internally and externally. The design echoes a structure in the original library in Hamburg, but is expressed in a modern form. The ellipse was an important symbol for Warburg, representing concepts of freedom, and links between thought and research. Quinn London has also replaced the external fire escape stairs with a new steel powder-coated staircase which rises seven storeys from the courtyard to top of the building. At 25 metres high and weighing more than 7.8 tonnes, it was no mean feat to lift the staircase over the building and drop it into the small courtyard space below. The works are restoring a tired building into a superb modern space that honours Aby Warburg’s vision and will inspire the public for many years to come.

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New Improvement and Compliance Manager Will Lay Firm Foundations at Priestley Construction

New Improvement and Compliance Manager Will Lay Firm Foundations at Priestley Construction

Teagan Hudson has been promoted to Improvement and Compliance Manager, which is a newly created role at award-winning Leeds based contractor Priestley Construction. Teagan will be responsible for updating and revising the company’s processes and systems to ensure they are as efficient and effective as possible. She will also oversee staff training and provide inductions to new recruits spanning Priestley’s procedures and policies. In addition, she will manage the implementation of new IT solutions and software, as well as providing relevant training, to streamline how the company stores, accesses, monitors and distributes information internally and externally. She will also explore and implement new standards from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that could benefit the company. Teagan joined Priestley Construction almost 18 months ago as a buyer and estimator. Teagan said: “The construction industry is evolving fast, and companies must be as proficient and capable as possible in today’s market in order to be successful and genuinely add value to their clients and projects. This role is all about identifying and implementing potential improvements in a wide range of areas to make Preistley Construction even better at what it does. “It feels very rewarding that the directors have created this new role and given me this opportunity to drive so many positive changes forward.” Nathan Priestley, founder and CEO of the Priestley Group, said: “Teagan boasts a wealth of analytical skills and when this is combined with her superb attention to detail and overall knowledge of the construction industry, there’s no doubt this is a role that she’ll thrive in. “We’ve shaped the job around her specific skillsets, and she will now be responsible for promoting, improving, updating, revising and monitoring all of our operational and commercial processes, with the overall aim of driving continuous improvement across our business. This makes it an exciting opportunity for both Teagan and Priestley Construction alike.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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REFURBISHMENT OF CITY OF LONDONS FIRST STEEL FRAMED BUILDING STARTS ONSITE

Refurbishment of City of London’s First Steel Framed Building starts Onsite

Construction is now under way on the comprehensive refurbishment of the Grade II listed Adelaide House in the City of London. Originally completed in 1924 on the site of the original London Bridge, Adelaide House was the City of London’s first steel frame building. At the time of construction, it was also considered the tallest building in the City. Designed by Scott Brownrigg for St Martins Property Investments, the refurbishment will enhance and celebrate the existing structure of the building, whilst improving accessibility and weaving in contemporary services and facilities as required by tenants today. New interventions and materials pay homage to the building’s historic elements, whilst referencing the modern context. Staff and visitors will have access to high quality amenities onsite which include a new business lounge within the reception area on the ground floor. The roof top, originally a rose garden and putting green for building occupiers, will once again be accessible to tenants as it is converted into a communal terrace with extensive views over the River Thames. The BREEAM Excellent design will provide double the number of cycle parking spaces and changing facilities than currently recommended by the British Council of Offices, facilitating a greener commute to work. With Galliford Try appointed as the Main Contractor, the building us expected to be complete in early 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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New internships will provide vital skills for those looking to pursue careers in construction

New internships will provide vital skills for those looking to pursue careers in construction

As part of its commitment to upskilling the next generation, McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), has welcomed four new interns to its construction division, helping young individuals to gain valuable experience and strengthen their skill set. Apprentice planner, Tommy Bordicott; trainee quantity surveyor, Robbie Yusuf; trainee quantity surveyor Ellie Marnell and construction apprentice, Rhys Collins joined the team this summer. Tommy will be assisting the lead planner on the Longwood Close project, in Coventry, where he will be creating programmes to support key activities throughout. He hopes to further develop his interpersonal and time management skills while building in-depth knowledge of the industry. Attracted to McLaren’s vision and values, Tommy said of his new position: “McLaren embodies both a community and a team. They are actively supporting my skill and career growth and I hope to one day be in the position where I can provide someone else with the same fantastic opportunity that they have given to me.” Trainee quantity surveyor, Robbie, will be working onsite, measuring drawings using Bluebeam (CAD), and issuing revisions alongside producing purchase orders and completing administrative duties. When asked what you are most excited about for his internship, Robbie said: “It is a real privilege to be taught by industry-leading experts who can share their knowledge and help me develop my skills.” Ellie joins the McLaren team with an eagerness to learn new skills, gain industry knowledge and support on site to see projects come to life, all of which will contribute to her achieving a future career goal of becoming a senior quantity surveyor. Ellie was initially drawn to McLaren Construction due to its strong focus on personal development and support. She said: “The company prioritises their employees’ well-being and I am fortunate to receive guidance and mentorship from experts at the forefront of the construction industry, who I greatly admire.” Construction apprentice, Rhys, will be gaining experience across multiple departments, as well as on-site, where he is looking forward to developing engineering and management skills allowing him to see projects all the way from inception to completion. Hoping to be a long-term member of the McLaren team, Rhys said: “I have been inspired by McLaren for a number of years, having been particularly interested by their Aston Martin headquarters and Leicester City training projects. I am looking forward to working hard in this new role and putting all my efforts into achieving the best I can.” McLaren’s comprehensive apprenticeship scheme is designed to provide aspiring individuals with an opportunity for growth and development. As part of the program, apprentices work closely with McLaren’s site teams, gaining invaluable exposure to the dynamic world of construction. The program provides successful applicants with a tailored development plan to guide them towards achieving their apprenticeship qualification in their chosen discipline, while being mentored and coached by McLaren’s experienced managers, ensuring they receive the guidance and support they need to thrive. Gary Cramp, Managing Director of McLaren Construction, said:  “We’re delighted to welcome four enthusiastic interns to our company. We are passionate about supporting them with their career journeys by helping them to enhance their skills through mentorship and valuable hands-on experience in construction, preparing them for their future careers. Investing in the upskilling of the next generation will positively contribute to the bright future of our industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Fortis Vision expands team with landmark appointments

Fortis Vision expands team with landmark appointments

Nationwide refurbishment contractor, Fortis Vision, has welcomed seven new team members into brand new positions as part of its national growth strategy. Tom Lewis – a new quantity surveyor, Tracy Lamont – a new project coordinator and Sam Wise – a new HR manager have joined the business this spring. Tom joined the Bristol office and will be commercially managing iQ student accommodation projects from tender stage, through to handover. With a BSc in Commercial Management and Quantity Surveying and a background working as a quantity surveyor at a renowned national construction group, he is highly skilled in cost management and planning, procurement, and risk management. Tracy is a highly organised, methodical, and pro-active project coordinator with a proven record of project on-time delivery and many years of project planning experience, in public and private sectors. Tracy is supporting the project delivery team from tender through to practical completion and is also assisting with the management of PR and social media for the company. Sam has 13 years of HR experience working in a variety of industries including Storage and Warehousing, Oil and Gas, Childcare, Education and Training, Hospitality, and the Motor trade. In her new role she will be focusing on applying her experience to the company’s vision for the future, striving to ensure Fortis Vision is an employer of choice by providing an inclusive and forward-thinking culture. The business has also invested in the role of a logistics manager based in the Bristol office and is delighted to welcome Joel Phillips into the role. Joel has a background in outdoor pursuits and will be assisting in several upcoming outdoor charity events. Project manager Ian Armstrong has also joined the team and will be fully engaged in the Midlands and London areas, working on a range of dynamic student accommodation schemes. In addition, the company has invested in two new trainees in separate disciplines – Ollie Dowde as an undergraduate placement surveyor in building surveying and Charlie Borthwick as a management trainee in an operations discipline. Both will be completing degree qualifications in their respective disciplines. David Borthwick, managing director at Fortis Vision, said: “We’d like to welcome all of the new starters from diverse backgrounds to Team Fortis, all will contribute to differing degrees, as we support them on their career journeys.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Construction firm continues to build on education refurbishment portfolio

Construction firm continues to build on education refurbishment portfolio

Yorkshire and Lincolnshire construction firm, Hobson & Porter has carried out more than £3.5 million pounds worth of specialist refurbishment works in the education sector, whilst schools and colleges were closed for the summer holidays. Alongside a strong work bank of new-build education works across the region totalling more than £25m in the previous year, the business has had a hugely successful summer period in its dedicated minor works division, delivery a huge portfolio of rapid-delivery, complex refurbishment projects in education assets across the region. One of the projects included the creation of a new multi-use games area (MUGA) at St Hugh’s School in Scunthorpe. The sheltered MUGA will enable students to utilise the area in most weather conditions, transforming an area which was previously unusable for the special educational needs (SEN) students at the school. Jonathan Kenyon, who is the head teacher at the school, said: “We would like to share our heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional work that has gone into the construction to the school MUGA. The result is truly outstanding and a testament to the dedication and expertise of everyone involved.  “The MUGA is a massive, valuable addition to our school, and it will undoubtedly benefit our students for years to come and enrich their learning journey. It’s thanks to the team from Hobson & Porter, who go above and beyond that we can provide such enriching opportunities for our students, and we are truly fortunate to have had such a committed team working on our project.”  For East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Hobson & Porter has refurbished four science classrooms, a prep room and office, as well as replacing pipework, cabling and mechanical ventilation at Beverley High School. It has also refurbished both flat and pitched roofs, as well as tennis courts at Howden School and a timber framed extension at Hornsea Primary School. At Swanland Primary School in East Yorkshire the company has upgraded the heating and hot water systems, boilers, hot water storage and distribution pipework. For York County Council, Hobson & Porter has worked at three schools over the summer – Clifton Green Primary School, Huntington Primary Academy and Yearsley Grove Primary School. The works included building a new, secure lobby at Clifton Green Primary School, with a revised access ramp and a relocation of the reception and visitor counter. Internal alterations included an upgraded meeting room, head office and new offices with replacement windows. The firm has also extended a meeting room and refurbished the car park, with three new access gates and overhead lighting. At Huntington School, Hobson & Porter has re-roofed a building and made modifications to the drainage system, and at Yearsley Grove Primary School the firm has also carried out re-roofing works, as well as upgrades to the heating and electricity supplies. Sam Robertson, from Hobson & Porter’s minor works division, said: “When it comes to the education sector, we have more than fifty years of experience of mobilising our teams for a huge uplift in education refurbishment and repurposing work over the summer months. We appreciate how important it is to work to a set timeframe so that we can have everything handed over and ready for the start of term. These projects are often incredibly intricate and require a real hands-on approach to deal with the unforeseen challenges which arise. Thankfully we can rely on our hugely experienced, directly employed team of management staff and operatives to deliver to our steadfast standards in these circumstances. “We’ve worked across a huge portfolio of primary, secondary, further and higher education buildings in the Yorkshire and Lincolnshire region and we value our relationships with a diverse set of clients in the education sector. Creating an inspiring environment for pupils to learn and thrive in is something we are hugely committed too, and our proven track record for delivering on our promises means that we always have a very busy schedule of works to carry out not only in the summer break, but also during all academic holidays throughout the year.” As well as refurbishment works, Hobson & Porter is also highly skilled at delivering new build projects for schools and colleges in the region. The firm has recently broken ground on a new £7m primary school in Northallerton for North Yorkshire Council and Dales Academies and has recently handed over a £6m new-build project at Fulford School in York, where it has built a new English, drama and art centre for the South York Multi-Academy Trust. Hobson & Porter is also building a £5m technical, engineering and construction facility at York College and recently completed projects for The University of Sheffield and Humber Engineering Training Association (HETA). The firm has also recently broken ground on the pioneering £10m Horizon Youth Zone in Grimsby. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Mace confirmed for Landsec Timber Square

Mace confirmed for the Landsec Timber Square

Mace has been selected as the main contractor for the Landsec Timber Square redevelopment on Lavington Street in Southwark. The announcement confirms Landsec’s commitment to delivering the project in full and will progress Landsec’s ambition to deliver a one million sq ft green office cluster in Southwark. The redevelopment of the former printworks will be the latest large-scale project Landsec is carrying out in Southwark, following the recent delivery of The Forge, the UK’s first Net-Zero commercial building designed in line with the UKGBC’s framework, which was completed by Mace and its joint venture partners, Sir Robert McAlpine. Building on the lessons learnt from The Forge, the project will further pioneer new approaches to designing and building net zero spaces, expanding the use of low-carbon materials to achieve around a 50% reduction in Co2 during construction compared to a typical office build. Timber Square will offer 380,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, split between two linked buildings, as well as retail space and a vibrant destination with a sizeable public realm which will boost pedestrian routes in the area. Timber Square is a pioneering net zero office development and will retain 85% of the existing structure by embracing a range of modern methods of construction, including the use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) to deliver a highly sustainable, energy-efficient space. Air Source Heat Pumps will be the primary heat source of the development. The redevelopment is targeting a BREAAM ‘Excellent’ and Well Core Platinum, as well as £205 million social and local economic value generated during the project life cycle. Pat Fitzgerald, Commercial Director for Major Projects at Mace, said: “We are delighted to be working with LandSec on another fantastic project. We are aligned by our common purpose to create sustainable, high-quality office spaces for London such as Timber Square. We look forward to getting started on this major redevelopment to play a part in the regeneration of London’s Southbank.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Willmott Dixon appointed at Copr Bay project

Willmott Dixon appointed at Copr Bay project

Swansea Council has appointed Willmott Dixon to complete work at the Copr Bay district after the original contractor, Buckingham Group, went into administration. The Copr Bay scheme covers the area of the former St David’s Shopping Centre and across the new bridge over Oystermouth Road to Swansea Arena and the coastal park. Most of the scheme is complete and open, so it’s business as usual at Swansea Arena, the Copr Bay south car park, the coastal park, the Green Room Bar and Kitchen, and the residential unit on the north side of Oystermouth Road. Willmott Dixon, which has an office nearby in Cardiff, will focus on completing the car park on the north side of Oystermouth Road and some other snagging work on site. The St David’s multi-storey car park – which is earmarked for demolition – will remain open in the meantime A Swansea Council spokesperson said: “The Copr Bay district is at the heart of Swansea’s on-going regeneration of the city centre. When our contractors Buckingham went into administration, we had to act quickly to protect the council’s position and complete the unfinished work. We’re delighted to appoint Willmott Dixon, one of the country’s leading specialists, to manage the construction and ensure the unfinished work is completed as soon as possible. “The snagging works will now be finished as soon as possible, and work to finish the car park is anticipated for completion in the spring of 2024. The financial arrangements we have in place mean we don’t envisage these works leading to extra costs for the council or the taxpayer.” Neal Stephens, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in Wales and West, added: “It is very sad what happened to Buckingham Group and to see their supply chain partners go through such a difficult period. We will try to use as many as possible as we complete this important project for Swansea. We have extensive experience of working in the local area and are pleased to be working with Swansea Council to bring this fantastic development to a fitting conclusion.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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McLaren Construction appointed on £8bn Procure Partnerships Framework

McLaren Construction appointed on £8bn Procure Partnerships Framework

McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) has been appointed to two of the four lots awarded to McLaren nationally on the £8bn Procure Partnerships Framework. Procure Partnerships Framework has operated a national contractor framework for the last four years across 11 regions, and this second iteration covers four disciplines; construction, decarbonisation and retrofit, demolition and site preparation and infrastructure. Under the construction discipline, the McLaren Construction (Midlands and North) division has been appointed to deliver public sector projects from £15m-£30m in the East Midlands and £30m+ in the West Midlands. The contractor is one of 87 appointed to the second-generation Framework which will run from 1 November 2023 for four years. McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) secured its place on the Framework through a rigorous selection process encompassing several critical assessments, including: PAS91 Selection Questionnaire, Financial Standing Checks, Relevant Experience, and Commercial Assessments, alongside Quality Assessments – covering aspects such as cost management, health and safety, sustainability, social value, and performance management. Gary Cramp, Managing Director at McLaren Construction (Midlands & North), said: “The new iteration of the framework is set to transform public and private sector procurement. McLaren Construction is proud to have been selected to deliver high-quality public sector schemes. “Both McLaren Construction and the Framework have a shared priority of delivering projects that have a strong emphasis on generating social value, and we are looking forward to what will be achieved for communities in the next four years.” Robbie Blackhurst, Director and Founder at Procure Partnerships Framework, said: “It was of paramount importance to us that the new framework addresses the growing needs of the industry, whilst ensuring clients have access to specialist contractors for their projects. McLaren Construction has an extensive portfolio of delivering successful construction projects, and we’re delighted to welcome them back onto the second iteration of the Procure Partnerships Framework.” McLaren Construction London and South have also been appointed to two lots covering £30m+projects in the East of England and Southeast. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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Henry Brothers awarded £30m contract for new Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre

Henry Brothers awarded £30m contract for new Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre

A contractor has been appointed for the Queen’s University Belfast-led Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), a £100m Belfast Region City Deal project, with almost £80m coming from the UK Government. Henry Brothers has won the £30m contract to construct the 10,500m² Factory of the Future building at Global Point Business Park in Newtownabbey. AMIC will reinvigorate Northern Ireland’s industrial potential and address the future technology and skills challenges faced by the region’s manufacturing sector. It is being delivered by Queen’s in partnership with Ulster University, industry, and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and supported by the UK Government and NI Executive.  By 2050, it’s estimated that AMIC will have contributed more than £1bn to the local economy, directly and indirectly created over 1,500 permanent jobs and supported the training of 300 apprentices. Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University, said: “Queen’s vision as a civic university and a Belfast Region City Deal partner is to create tangible impact where it truly matters. We are determined to drive societal progress for generations to come through delivering three Innovation Centres in advanced manufacturing, clinical research and secure, connected digital technologies. “Connecting our underpinning high-quality research with industry, government and the manufacturing sector will turbocharge our region’s capabilities and embed a culture of innovation to act as a driver for increased productivity. “Our focus is on driving sustainable economic growth to have a positive impact on the lives of people across Northern Ireland.” Professor Stuart Elborn, Interim Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Queen’s University, said: “As part of our City Deal programme AMIC will create jobs by supporting local companies to be more competitive on a global scale, attract new investment and ensure that we have the skilled workforce needed for the future. “Through City Deal we are committed to delivering inclusive growth benefits right across Northern Ireland in terms of productivity, jobs and skills and for the AMIC project we’re delighted to be working with Henry Brothers, a company which shares this ethos.” Henry Brothers, which is headquartered in Magherafelt, with more than 200 employees based across Northern Ireland, England, and Scotland, has been awarded the construction contract after a competitive tendering process. Work includes the early contractor involvement process, construction of an engineering hall, a clean room, laboratory spaces, an auditorium and office accommodation as well as external landscaping and mechanical and electrical services. Planning permission for the building was given in May, and it’s hoped that construction work at the site can start next spring. AMIC plans to be operating from the Factory of the Future by 2026, with capacity for 150 staff, as it delivers for Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector. David Henry, Managing Director, Henry Brothers, said: “We are pleased to be working with Queen’s University on the new Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre, which will provide support for the manufacturing and engineering sectors in Northern Ireland and beyond. “As one of Northern Ireland’s leading construction companies, we understand how important facilities like these are in addressing the industry-wide skills shortage. “Having previously delivered the redevelopment of McClay Library and David Bates buildings at the University, we have an established relationship with Queen’s that we look forward to building on. “Working with the Belfast Region City Deal partners and sharing their vision to create ‘inclusive economic growth that delivers more and better jobs’, Henry Brothers is committed to embedding social value through delivery of this project, with a focus on creating apprenticeship opportunities and providing student placement and professional trainee opportunities, together with delivering paid employment opportunities for those currently facing barriers to employment.” Mike Brennan, Permanent Secretary of the Department for the Economy, said: “The Department, along with Invest NI, continues to support the development of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre and we are delighted to see another key implementation milestone being achieved by Queen’s University Belfast. “The £100m investment shows the commitment that exists within Queen’s and the Belfast Region City Deal to collaborate with industry partners in order to unlock innovation within our region. AMIC will play a key role in the realisation of the 10x vision for our economy, by driving growth through innovation.” Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Mark Cooper BEM, said: “The appointment of a contractor for AMIC is great news bringing the development a step closer. The Council is delighted to support this project with a £10m investment which will see this flagship facility, the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, set for Global Point Newtownabbey. “This state-of-the-art centre will act as a catalyst for advanced manufacturing in our Borough and will further strengthen the Council’s plans to transform Global Point into a world-class hub of advanced manufacturing excellence.” AMIC is building on 50 years of sustained innovation and industry support through the Northern Ireland Technology Centre (NITC), the Polymers Processing Research Centre (PPRC) and the more recent university-industry partnership, the NI Advanced Composites and Engineering (NIACE). It will provide a specialised environment for advanced manufacturing, materials, and engineering sectors to access the latest digital, automation and robotics technology supported by experienced engineers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals 

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