Sustainability on construction sites is a major talking point in the industry – and many businesses share a resolve to take measures that reduce carbon emissions and help protect the planet. However, it can also be a confusing and sometimes overwhelming space, especially for those just beginning the journey. Avril
TSL Contractors Ltd Utility’s aviation business, Skyhook Helicopters, is proud to announce the arrival of its brand-new utility H125 aircraft, marking an exciting step forward in serving our market across the UK and Ireland. This addition enhances our operational capabilities, bringing greater efficiency, performance, and sustainability to our services. The
The Yeomanry Close retirement housing facility on Priory Road, Warwick, now boasts a modernised passenger lift as part of a comprehensive refurbishment plan with Warwick District Council aimed at enhancing the safety and reliability of lift systems across their buildings. With the original lift system dating back to 1984, the
The reimagined Creamery building at the heart of Castle Cary railway station now boasts a striking, all-glass passenger lift from Stannah. This modern addition combines style with accessibility, offering a transparent and elegant way to visit the trackside restaurant and working creamery. This historic structure, which has been a part
MODULAR pool provider Myrtha Pools is set to deliver a new state-of-the-art hydrotherapy swim offering at Surrey specialist school, Philip Southcote School, as part of wider expansion works on the school’s main campus, on behalf of Surrey County Council. Procured through the fifth generation of the Southern Construction Framework, Morgan
The Asticus London building, a striking ten-storey landmark, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally constructed in 2006, the office building features a stunning new reception, business lounge, landscaped terrace, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, luxurious end-of-trip facilities in the basement, and the addition of four new Stannah passenger lifts, one of
Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Big Green Coach continues to lead the way in providing carbon-neutral transportation services nationwide. Already established as the UK’s largest events travel company, Big Green Coach continues to grow its Transport Solutions business within the BDC sector, prioritising sustainability and efficiency in its operations.
Sensitive work to remove damaging paint from a listed building in Dorset has completed the regeneration project on one of the county’s most historic high streets. Bournemouth-based building conservation expert Gary Elford was contracted to undertake the restoration work at the Grand Parade on Poole High Street. The building in
A VITAL new quay on the south bank of the River Tees is set to be operational in early summer 2024 for the Teesworks industrial development, after the completion of a multi-million-pound investment programme. Building work on the first 450-metre phase of the South Bank Heavy Lift Quay is now
The BPMA’s annual awards programme has been recognising and rewarding the achievements of pump businesses, large and small for over two decades. Throughout that time, it has become one of the leading events to serve the industrial and commercial arena. So, if you have a pump related product, system, or
Sustainability on construction sites is a major talking point in the industry – and many businesses share a resolve to take measures that reduce carbon emissions and help protect the planet. However, it can also be a confusing and sometimes overwhelming space, especially for those just beginning the journey. Avril Coleman, Business Administration Director at SafeSite Facilities, a UK leader in site safety and security, outlines the ‘quick wins’ that can get you started. 1 Look for opportunities to encourage ‘circularity’ – including hiring instead of buying Circularity, a sustainable model which focuses on re-use and the elimination of waste, should be a key focus for businesses starting their sustainability journey. One solution for construction sites is to consider hiring equipment rather than buying it outright. This might apply to CCTV but also to safety barriers – in fact anything which is not required permanently. 2 Look for suppliers that offer buy-back on products For businesses that prefer to buy, choosing a supply partner that offers buy-back options when the products are no longer required is an alternative way to support circularity, Extending the lifecycle of products is particularly relevant to construction sites, because when a job is complete the temptation is to simply send unwanted products to landfill. At SafeSite Facilities, we offer to buy back products that are still intact, such as fence sets and barriers, to extend the life cycle of these products. It’s something that suppliers in other industries could look at, too. Equipment that is bought back is either re-sold or sent to scrap metal experts who re-use it. Plastic materials often go back to the manufacturer to be re-used or turned into new products. It’s about extending the lifecycle of a product. 3 Choose recyclable products made from natural materials Products that are recyclable, or made from recycled material, create a circular economy. This might include aluminium, which is 100 per cent recyclable, steel, bamboo, wood and cork. Plastics, including plastic barriers, still have an important part to play in the market, too, but look out for plastics that are recyclable. 4 Make the switch to electric vehicles wherever possible Removing petrol and diesel vehicles from a company fleet is a long-term ambition for many businesses in the construction sector. There are still some significant challenges in this arena as we wait for technology to catch up. Electric delivery vehicles, for instance, remain a challenge because of range anxiety and inefficient charging stations. But switching to electric cars for executives and the sales team is more achievable in the short term. 5 Choose suppliers that calculate optimal routes for delivery drivers One way to reduce emissions in a petrol or diesel fleet is to work harder to reduce journey times. AI software is now available that can calculate route planning to deliver more efficient journeys. Upgrading vehicles, putting limiters on vehicles so they can’t go above a certain speed can also have an impact. That’s important because transport is such a huge contributor to the scope of any business’ carbon footprint. 6 Work with other businesses that hold recognised environmental and sustainability certification It’s always good to work with suppliers and partners who share your values, especially when it comes to sustainability. There are a range of environmental and sustainability certifications to look out for, including ISO 14001. This is a global standard that provides a framework for organisations to design and implement an Environmental Management System, created by the International Organization for Standardisation (ISO). 7 Go paperless Removing paper from your operation, and choosing suppliers who have done the same, is an important early step. Long gone are the days when deliveries required a pile of paperwork. Most transactions and documents can now be handled on a screen. There are plenty of software options available now which can facilitate this. 8 Train your team in sustainable practices For a business to be truly sustainable it needs buy-in from all its people. Everyone can play a part. The best way to create a culture of sustainability is to train your people and make reducing emissions part of everyday business. There’s no point in having environmental and sustainability policies if nobody in the company actions them. 9 Consider products that use solar power Reducing energy usage on site is a challenge, but solar power can help. CCTV cameras and lighting can now be powered effectively by solar panels, for instance, and technology is improving all the time. 10 Take measures on site that support and protect wildlife There’s more to sustainability than using less energy and reducing waste. Protecting wildlife should also be a consideration for construction sites, especially those in rural areas. SafeSite Facilities offers a range of newt and reptile wildlife fencing, designed for protected species mitigation projects and managing wildlife movement. These are perfect for applications such as construction sites, power stations, highways, rail networks, utility pipelines, and ecologically sensitive areas. They serve as an effective barrier to keep newts and other amphibians out of your site as well as conforming to the guidelines laid out in the Great Crested Newts Guidelines. There are even fences available to protect snakes. By embracing all ten of these tips, construction sites can make a positive start on the journey towards a more sustainable industry in which carbon emissions are reduced. About the author: Avril Coleman has worked at SafeSite Facilities for nearly a decade and is passionate about creating environments where people feel valued and empowered in the construction industry and beyond. As Business Administration Director, she leads on administrative functions and sustainability at SafeSite Facilities, which sells and hires non-mechanical safety and security products to construction sites, major highways projects, events and festivals nationwide. Avril was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction for 2024 as a Local Hero for the South East, by the National Federation of Builders, for her continued commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion within the construction industry in the UK. Building, Design &
TSL Contractors Ltd Utility’s aviation business, Skyhook Helicopters, is proud to announce the arrival of its brand-new utility H125 aircraft, marking an exciting step forward in serving our market across the UK and Ireland. This addition enhances our operational capabilities, bringing greater efficiency, performance, and sustainability to our services. The H125 is renowned for its versatility and high performance, making it the ideal aircraft for demanding utility work. Whether supporting telecoms operations, renewable energy production and distribution, peatland restoration, forestry management or aerial surveys, the H125 offers unmatched reliability lifting capacity in its class. With its advanced technology and fuel efficiency, this aircraft significantly reduces our carbon footprint, aligning with our commitment to sustainability and responsible aviation. As a leader in the utility aviation sector, Skyhook Helicopters continues to invest in modern technology to provide the safest and most effective solutions for our clients. The H125’s superior payload capacity, agility, and safety features ensure that we continue to meet and exceed the expectations of industries that rely on aerial support. Managing Director Andy Knight said, “We look forward to deploying the H125 across a range of projects, demonstrating its capabilities and reinforcing Skyhook Helicopters’ position at the forefront of utility aviation in the UK and Ireland, this is an exciting time for our company, our clients, and the future of sustainable aviation”. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Yeomanry Close retirement housing facility on Priory Road, Warwick, now boasts a modernised passenger lift as part of a comprehensive refurbishment plan with Warwick District Council aimed at enhancing the safety and reliability of lift systems across their buildings. With the original lift system dating back to 1984, the infrastructure had aged significantly, necessitating upgrades to meet current fire safety, accessibility and operational regulations. The new lift system by Stannah not only meets these standards but also includes features that ensure a safer, more accessible and comfortable experience for Yeomanry Close residents, supporting their mobility and independence. The client Originally built in 1984, Yeomanry Close is a retirement housing facility managed by Warwick District Council. The building consists of 31 one-bedroom flats and offers a wide range of services and amenities to support its elderly residents. Key facilities include lifts, stair lifts, laundry services, landscaped gardens, activities room, hairdressing salon, library and more. The entire site is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that residents can move freely and comfortably throughout the building. The project, awarded directly to Stannah Lifts in partnership with Seddons and Warwick District Council (WDC), involved a complete refurbishment of the building’s outdated lift system. In collaboration with Seddons, the client was involved in selecting lift car interiors that would meet both functional needs and design preferences, ensuring the refurbished lift would enhance overall performance. The work The original lifts at Yeomanry Close had seen minimal updates since the building’s construction, gradually becoming outdated in both function and safety standards. As the building entered a phase of broader refurbishment, managed by Seddons, it became clear that the lifts no longer met the updated fire safety policies for the site and required substantial improvements. This highlighted the need for a full lift refurbishment to comply with modern regulations and ensure the safety of the building’s residents. It was determined that a complete refurbishment would be more cost-effective than a partial lift upgrade and better suited to ensuring compliance with fire safety and accessibility standards. Additionally, the new lift system would seamlessly integrate with other modernisations in the building, contributing to a cohesive upgrade throughout. This comprehensive approach created a secure and accessible environment for all residents, future-proofing the facility’s infrastructure for years to come. The challenges Refurbishing the lift system presented several challenges, primarily due to the need to work within a live environment where residents continued to occupy the building. Coordinating with other stakeholders required close communication and scheduling to minimise disruption and ensure the comfort and safety of residents. Working alongside multiple teams required careful planning to avoid conflicts in timing, workspace usage and access. Stannah collaborated closely with all stakeholders, including Warwick District Council and on-site contractors, to ensure that the project remained on schedule and within budget. The solution Stannah proposed a comprehensive lift refurbishment solution that addressed both aesthetic and safety concerns while fully aligning with current regulatory standards. The refurbishment included a complete interior upgrade, which the client helped to choose, ensuring the new design reflected the building’s aesthetic vision. As part of the safety upgrades, robust, fire-rated doors were installed and the lifts were brought up to BS EN 81-73 fire safety standards, enabling reliable emergency recall in case of a fire. Additionally, the lift alarm systems were upgraded to meet BS EN 81-28 standards, ensuring that emergency communication systems were dependable and fully compliant. Given the needs of elderly residents and the commitment to maintaining full wheelchair access through the building, accessibility was a central focus of the refurbishment. The lifts were updated to meet BS EN 81-70 standards, which include enhanced control panels, clear signage and other accessibility features designed to support ease of use for all residents. The result The newly refurbished lift system at Yeomanry Close now offers step-free access across all three floors, enabling residents to move safely and freely throughout the building. The lift’s car finishes were carefully chosen to complement the sophisticated interior design with lower linen wall panels and white-panelled upper walls. The existing exterior architraves were wrapped to seamlessly blend with the surrounding decor to create a sleek and cohesive look. Overall, the entire refurbishment adheres to the standards specified in BS EN 8486-2, which governs the safe and efficient operation of lifts in residential buildings. By choosing a full refurbishment over a partial upgrade, Stannah Lifts achieved a cost-effective solution designed to meet the building’s long-term functional and aesthetic needs that are now in line with current fire safety and accessibility regulations, significantly improving overall living at Yeomanry Close. Andy Miller, Branch Manager at the Stannah West Midlands & Mid Wales branch said: “We’re proud to have worked with Warwick District Council again, helping to improve their lift systems for the safety of their residents and the efficiency of their buildings. This partnership reflects our commitment to enhancing accessibility and ensuring that all community members can move freely and safely within their environments.” Martyn Stacey from Warwick District Council said: “We’ve worked with Stannah on multiple of our residential developments and it’s been a pleasure working with them again. Their dedication to enhancing accessibility and lift performance demonstrates a genuine commitment to improving residents’ quality of life. Thanks for a great refurbishment, it’s been a pleasure working with you.” www.stannahlifts.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The reimagined Creamery building at the heart of Castle Cary railway station now boasts a striking, all-glass passenger lift from Stannah. This modern addition combines style with accessibility, offering a transparent and elegant way to visit the trackside restaurant and working creamery. This historic structure, which has been a part of the area since 1912, recently underwent an extensive renovation to enhance the safety, stability and user experience. The Creamery is renowned for its tower, ‘La Belle Epoque’, which still stands tall today as a symbol of industrial innovation and artistic flair. Originally established by brothers G&C Prideaux as a milk factory, the creamery processed milk delivered by local farmers into cheese, then transported to London via the railway. Today, The Creamery is open to the public and has been transformed into a community hub, featuring a restaurant and shop, and offering a range of delightful food options to travellers, visitors, and train passengers while reviving its cheesemaking heritage. The client The Creamery is owned by Koos Bekker and his wife, who also owns The Newt in Somerset, which was recently awarded the World’s Best Boutique Hotel at The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023. Ken Biggs Contractors were appointed as the principal contractor on this project and made contact after being impressed by Stannah’s distinctive refurbishment of a vintage passenger lift at the YMCA in Bristol. Working with architects Stonewood Design, and Ken Biggs Contractors, Stannah Lifts worked to deliver a lift that was both modern and harmoniously integrated with the early 20th-century aesthetic of the building. The project’s vision was to blend the 1912 style with contemporary elements, which also resulted in Ken Biggs Contractors reconstructing the entire Creamery. The work Stannah Lifts collaborated with architects to incorporate the new lift into the design of the re-imagined Creamery. The project commenced with the installation of vertical rail guides to keep the lift aligned within the elevator shaft, followed by the mechanical first fix in 2023 and the completion of the mechanical package. Shortly after, works commenced on the glass lift shaft and car. The lift shaft and car featured bespoke glass sourced from Gemtec, a specialist German company. Stannah Lifts facilitated a 24-hour visit to Germany for Ken Biggs Contractors and Stonewood Design, allowing them to review the glass and how it would integrate with the lift design before shipping it to the UK, which minimised the need for additional modifications. To ensure the glass was installed without any issues, Gemtec provided helpful support throughout this stage. Meanwhile, Stannah Lifts supplied and fitted custom trims and a glass panel to fill the gap adjacent to the glass car doors. A CTV mechanical lift car package was fitted as part of the overall lift components and snagging works meant full lift completion in April 2024. Additional building works in the Creamery included a new brick extension to match the original factory’s detailing, reflecting the 1912 era and the Titanic’s historical significance, with posters embedded in the staircase brickwork. The design also pays tribute to the rich history of milk and cheese production at the Creamery, with milk bottle carvings integrated throughout the building and on the lift car doors. The challenge One particular challenge was aligning with the client’s design vision while maintaining the lift’s structural integrity for safe and efficient operation. As a result, the design and concept of the lift evolved during the project to better address customer needs and project requirements. Precision was crucial as several design elements, including lighting and fitting locations, were adapted throughout the project. Stannah Lifts collaborated closely with the client to balance their needs with practical and mechanical feasibility, such as incorporating shaft lights underneath the lift structure for a minimalistic look, creating an illuminated effect. At the customer’s request, the lift’s structure wasn’t initially anchored to the brickwork, resulting in a requirement to monitor structural movement. Stannah conducted wind load calculations, revealing potential issues during gale-force winds. To ensure the safety of passengers, Stannah proposed securing the lift to the brickwork. Given the complexity of the installation, Stannah assembled a highly skilled team to execute the project, which included Gemtec, R&R Lifts, and Vinsol. Stannah participated in regular meetings and design consultations with the client to ensure their requirements were thoroughly addressed. The result The custom-designed passenger lift features a minimalist approach with discrete fixings and fixtures. It seamlessly integrates handrails through the glass without additional supports or corner trims. This 8-person all-glass lift allows natural light to illuminate the interior, offering passengers views of the Creamery as they travel to the first floor. The hydraulic passenger lift serves two floors and travels 3.6 metres to provide step-free access from The Creamery restaurant to the train station’s platform. A unique aspect of the lift is the placement of the keyhole for manually operating the car and landing doors. Traditionally mounted at the top of the landing doors, Stannah positioned the keyhole at the bottom to align with the minimalist design, effectively concealing the system. To address signal issues within the shaft, a GSM package was installed with an antenna mounted on the structure ensuring reliable signal reception. The bespoke lift adheres to all open protocol requirements, allowing for independent maintenance and repair, and is fully DDA compliant, ensuring accessible features like illuminated push buttons are positioned at a height accessible to wheelchair users. All Stannah lifts are certified according to the Lifts Regulations 2016 (2016 No. 1093). Ben Harding, Bristol Branch Manager at Stannah Lift Services, said: “We’re proud to have worked on this unique project. It hasn’t come without its challenges but we can proudly say this bespoke glass lift embodies our client’s minimalist vision while offering a safe and accessible alternative to reaching the train platform. It seamlessly blends modern design with functionality while offering an unobstructed view of the Creamery as passengers ascend.”www.stannahlifts.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MODULAR pool provider Myrtha Pools is set to deliver a new state-of-the-art hydrotherapy swim offering at Surrey specialist school, Philip Southcote School, as part of wider expansion works on the school’s main campus, on behalf of Surrey County Council. Procured through the fifth generation of the Southern Construction Framework, Morgan Sindall Construction is leading the construction work, which includes two new blocks, one comprising of new classrooms, an ICT suite and additional provision for hearing impaired students, and the second housing the specialist hydrotherapy pool, being delivered by the Myrtha Pools team. The 20 x 8 x 1.2mt pool is set to showcase cutting-edge technology which utilises offsite construction and a stainless-steel makeup in favour of reduced cost and installation time, along with offering carbon reductions of up to 45%. Also set to be delivered within the pool design are hydromassage areas to promote circulation and relaxation for users, offering increased ergonomic benefits. Kevin Burns, UK business development manager at Myrtha Pools, said: “A core ethos for us at Myrtha Pools is providing a positive impact for our end users, and this project couldn’t be more aligned with that. Having the opportunity to boost wellness and wellbeing within an educational environment is a huge privilege and we’re looking forward to watching the project unfold alongside Morgan Sindall over the coming weeks. “The bespoke hydrotherapy facilities we are delivering is just one example of our acceleration within the UK leisure market over the past year. We have a growing portfolio of operators who are beginning to understand the unique benefits stainless steel pools hold over traditional concrete. We’re helping create a positive and healthy future within the leisure market and having specialist schools as part of this mix adds to the growing level of expertise we can offer right here in the UK.” Guy Hannell, area director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Southern Home Counties, said: “At Morgan Sindall, we understand the importance of providing inspirational learning environments to every child in order to provide them with the very best start in life. It has been a pleasure to work with Myrtha Pools and Surrey County Council to provide prospective learners with some of the most state-of-the-art equipment in the region.” Additional car parking facilities and external landscaping will also be created as part of the Philip Southcote scheme in Weybridge. For more information on Myrtha Pools and its solutions, visit https://www.myrthapools.com/en/dealers/myrtha-pools-uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Asticus London building, a striking ten-storey landmark, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Originally constructed in 2006, the office building features a stunning new reception, business lounge, landscaped terrace, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views, luxurious end-of-trip facilities in the basement, and the addition of four new Stannah passenger lifts, one of which can be used by emergency services in the event of a fire. Architects, Aukett Swanke, envisioned a remarkable Cat A office refurbishment design, with a strong focus on sustainability, achieving BREEAM Very Good accreditations. The building prioritises inclusivity with the new lifts providing daily step-free access. The Client The re-imagined Asticus building was acquired in 2016 by AXA IM Alts, a global leader in alternative investments. AXA IM Alts teamed up with primary contractors MND Construction Services, and architects Aukett Swanke, to undertake a comprehensive building refurbishment to all areas. This also included adding a new floor, all part of a broader lease opportunity. Stannah worked with MND Construction Services and Aukett Swanke to create modern and compliant step-free access throughout. Work Stannah installed three passenger lifts, as a triplex, each accommodating 13 people, transporting visitors and staff from the ground floor all the way up to the new tenth floor, with one lift extending to the basement. Stannah installed the lifts using a scaffold-less method. These passenger lifts were specified at 1000kg capacity and operated at a speed of 1.6m per second, providing a quick and efficient ride for passengers. Stannah also installed a fourth lift which is for firefighting but can be used as a normal passenger lift. A firefighting lift is an essential safety asset in high-rise buildings and has dedicated control features to aid the fire and rescue service. Some of the key features included in the firefighting lift design are trap doors, ladders, an emergency intercom system, and a separate power supply used by firefighters during rescue operations. This ensures the lift can operate efficiently even if the main building electrics are compromised. All the lifts adhere to the relevant performance and safety standards. Additional works included a new tenth floor, extensive refurbishments featuring new Cat A and optional Cat A+ finishes, the implementation of end-of-trip facilities such as bike storage racks, and a complete renewal of building services. Challenges New modern lifts were required to accommodate the increased number of people working in the building due to the addition of a new storey. This resulted in the need for a fully compliant and modern firefighting lift to meet the associated fire and safety specifications. There was an existing firefighting lift, although a survey by Stannah revealed concerns about compliance and operational issues. Before the new lifts could be installed, the existing four lifts had to be removed whilst minimising disturbance to the building occupants, ensuring safety and retaining step-free access at all times. This site was a live office environment, meaning it had existing tenants on some of the floors. As always for Stannah, safety was the first priority during the work as well as managing dust and noise levels. The Stannah team took great care to understand the operational requirements and concerns of the building occupiers to ensure that disruption to their daily activities was kept to a minimum. This even involved site tours so that they were fully involved in all aspects of the programme. Results The lift solution provided by Stannah at Asticus centred around accessibility, design and, for the fourth lift. fire safety. Stannah provided a tailored lift solution that not only fulfilled the design requirements but also aligned perfectly with the logistical needs of the construction process. To ensure precision in meeting the design requirements, Stannah delivered black-painted glass car finishes, with careful attention to the equal spacing of grey vertical stripes, even where the back and side panels met. Given the lifts’ placement on an odd-floor triplex, Stannah incorporated priority buttons into the design of the lift which served all floors, enabling efficient group call planning. Additionally, two lifts were installed with counterweight safety gears, emphasising Stannah’s commitment to delivering a functional, secure and aesthetically pleasing lift solution tailored to the specific needs of the project. The bespoke full-depth architraves, which were acid-etched with floor markings, added a decorative touch to the building’s design. The passenger lifts resulted in a practical and elegant solution, transforming the building into a desirable office refurbishment with step-free access to all areas. The 63,000sq of reimagined office space launched in February 2024. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Big Green Coach continues to lead the way in providing carbon-neutral transportation services nationwide. Already established as the UK’s largest events travel company, Big Green Coach continues to grow its Transport Solutions business within the BDC sector, prioritising sustainability and efficiency in its operations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Big Green Coach demonstrated agility by pivoting its services to meet the pressing need for safe transportation of essential workers. This move not only showcased its adaptability but also spurred growth in its staff transport business, which continues to expand post-pandemic. Working with Laing O’Rourke, Eiffage, Kier Group, East West Rail, Volker Rail, Murphy Group, Matiere and other key industry-leading businesses has underscored the growing demand for sustainable transport options within the BDC sector. Big Green Coach’s tailored solutions address the specific needs of these clients, whether it’s streamlining logistics for large-scale projects or facilitating daily commutes for workforce teams, while remaining committed to its carbon-neutral ethos. The experienced travel company can source a diverse range of vehicles, including cutting-edge electric minivans and environmentally friendly Euro VI coaches. All vehicles are Chapter 8 compliant and come with fully registered and certified drivers. The trusted and professional service also comes with a 24/7 transport manager, ensuring that there is always a single point of contact to deal with any difficult situations. Paul Johnson, Business Development Manager at Big Green Coach, expressed his enthusiasm about the ongoing growth of the company’s Transport Solutions department: “We are delighted to continue our longstanding relationships with companies such as EKFB, while also embracing new partnerships within the BDC sector. Leveraging our extensive experience in event travel, we continue to offer robust staff transport solutions. This ongoing growth enables us to expand our services while actively contributing to a sustainable future.” As Big Green Coach looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to environmental responsibility and client satisfaction, driving positive change within the transportation industry. Companies looking to find sustainable solutions to their transport needs can request a free consultation with Big Green Coach. The initial call will endeavour to help the sustainable transport experts at Big Green Coach understand the requirements and set out the next steps to achieve the company’s goals. Request a free one-to-one call with a dedicated member of the Big Green Coach Transport Solutions team and sign up for its Business Travel Newsletter here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sensitive work to remove damaging paint from a listed building in Dorset has completed the regeneration project on one of the county’s most historic high streets. Bournemouth-based building conservation expert Gary Elford was contracted to undertake the restoration work at the Grand Parade on Poole High Street. The building in question was suffering from internal damp issues due to an incorrect, non-breathable paint finish being applied over the original limewash coat. Gary used the Doff III superheated steam cleaning system – the latest and recently-launched iteration of the iconic machine from Gloucestershire pioneers Stonehealth – to carefully remove the paint layer and expose the original lime finish beneath. The machine uses steam at 150 degrees C to create an extremely gentle cleaning operation which preserves the integrity of historic stonework. The project in Poole was one of the first in the UK to see the new machine in action – launched last month after four years in development. “It’s great to be able to put the Doff III to good use,” said Gary. “Unfortunately the existing paintwork is totally the wrong type of finish to be used on a Grade II listed building like this, so it’s was causing damp issues inside. “These buildings were originally designed to allow water vapour to escape through the mortar joints and brickwork, so layering non-breathable paint over the top is a really bad idea. “I’m happy to have worked with the Council to rectify the problem and play my part in improving this part of Poole. The Doff III is perfect for this type of work and it’s great to see it in use.” Gary’s work, coordinated with the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council and the building owner, was part of the Heritage Action Zone project which has focussed on the area from the High Street to the historic Quayside. The regeneration work to the town centre location has seen repairs to historic buildings and brought vacant premises and upper floors back into use, especially for creative start-ups. The work also funded improvements to the public realm and pedestrian routes to make the town centre more attractive and accessible, in a bid to improve footfall and vibrancy. The Doff III is a new and improved, even safer and more sustainable version model of the machine favoured by architects, specifiers and cleaning industry professionals in the UK and worldwide. Four years and a six figure sum have been invested in the development of the new machine, which features an improved, lighter, fully integrated pump requiring 50 per cent less power usage, a remote power control, an electronic temperature control system to reduce water consumption, and increased maximum hose length of 45 metres, while still achieving a steam heat of 150 degrees C at the end of the nozzle. Angela Southern, Business Development Director at Stonehealth, said: “We care about the preservation of historic buildings and so it is important that contractors using our systems are properly trained in the right techniques and maintenance. Gary has been working with our machines for many years so we know he’s done the machine and the centre of Poole proud. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A VITAL new quay on the south bank of the River Tees is set to be operational in early summer 2024 for the Teesworks industrial development, after the completion of a multi-million-pound investment programme. Building work on the first 450-metre phase of the South Bank Heavy Lift Quay is now complete – with 30,000 tonnes of concrete poured into its construction. A total of c. £114m has been invested into the quay on the back of a loan by the UK Infrastructure Bank, which is to be repaid in full by private partners of Teesworks Ltd, as activity over the quay ramps up. Combined with the recently completed South Bank Link Road, the quay will help serve SeAH Wind’s huge £650m monopile manufacturing facility, which is currently under construction immediately to the south of the quay. With its deep-water capabilities and substantial storage, the quay will offer direct access for SeAH’s monopiles to be shipped out to offshore wind farms in the North Sea. The quay will also enable components and raw materials to be shipped into SeAH’s plant and the wider Teesworks site for use in the manufacturing process. Its capabilities are already attracting significant interest from other companies in the offshore wind sector, as Teesworks Operations Director Garry O’Malley explained. Mr O’Malley said: “South Bank Heavy Lift Quay will be a major strategic facility for the North Sea offshore wind industry over the next few decades. “There’s a real shortage of ports on the east coast which have deep water capabilities and large areas of land for storing and marshalling offshore wind farm components before they are shipped out for installation. “South Bank Quay and Teesworks combines both so there’s a real demand for facilities like this.” The deep-water quay, which has taken two years to build by UK contractor GRAHAM will offer at least 13.6 metres of depth for vessels at any state of the tide. Its 450-metre length means that two of the largest offshore wind installation vessels can be comfortably accommodated at the same time, using the heavy lift platform of 30t psm. Leading up to the quay is the recently completed 1.7km South Bank Link Road which unlocks access to more than 500 acres of land, including the SeAH monopile factory, and allows occupiers seamless transport to the Tees and out to the North Sea. Negotiations are advanced with a potential operator of the quay and the facility is set to be operational by early summer. Teesworks CEO Martin Corney said: “Both of these vital projects will unlock access and help trigger thousands of jobs on the Teesworks site and in the wider Teesside/ North East region. “We’ve had a significant amount of interest from global companies on the back of the progress at the quay – and the end of building work means we’re a big step closer to having direct riverside access to Teesworks and a vital route to the North Sea. “The South Bank Link Road is not only vital to unlocking access for SeAH Wind – it also unlocks 500 acres of land for development.” A mammoth 40,000 tonnes of asphalt and surfacing has been laid by North East firm Rainton Construction Ltd – part of the MGL Group – in creating the South Bank Link Road. The £8million of works also include footpaths and a cycleway within proximity to South Bank Station. This underscores the project’s broader aim of enhancing transportation options, not only facilitating rail connectivity but also improving road, cycling and walking infrastructure in the area. The link road is set to extend further through the South Bank site in future phases with building work on an office hub to serve the quay now well underway. Plans are now being examined for phase 2A of the South Bank Heavy Lift Quay which could increase the length of the quay by up to 300 metres, depending on demand from potential occupiers and users. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “We simply could not have achieved what we have on the Teesworks site without our Joint Venture partners – they have been crucial in how far we’ve come, and these milestones are perfect examples of that. “All the jigsaw pieces are falling into place for South Bank Quay to serve Teesside as a vital link to the North Sea. We’re also making sure the infrastructure, roads and power are all in place so more huge investors can come to Teesworks to create good, well-paid jobs for local people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The BPMA’s annual awards programme has been recognising and rewarding the achievements of pump businesses, large and small for over two decades. Throughout that time, it has become one of the leading events to serve the industrial and commercial arena. So, if you have a pump related product, system, or service that you feel is deserving of industry-wide recognition, this is the ideal platform. Maybe you are proud of a particular pump project, or your overall environmental credentials? Perhaps you have a staff member who has gone above and beyond or you believe your commitment to skills development is worthy of acknowledgment. Whatever your engineering or business successes might be, third-party endorsement of your key achievements through this awards process delivers unrivalled promotional opportunities. The closing date for all entries is Friday 5th January 2024, so you now have just over a month to consider, prepare, and submit your entries. Entering is simple, and by putting forward a nomination you are demonstrating confidence and pride in the quality of your work, people, products, and projects. Submissions are sought for activities and achievements that took place in the 18-month period up to December 2023, and the online entry forms will remain on the dedicated awards website – www.pumpindustryawards.com – until the entry deadline of 5.00pm on Friday 5th January 2024. Please make a note of this important date, and begin considering which key developments, initiatives, staff, and successes you will be putting forward for wide spread recognition. Maintaining the early Spring timeline, and following the huge success of the 2023 event, the next Gala Dinner and Presentation Ceremony will take place on Thursday 14th March 2024 at our fantastic venue – the Hilton at St George’s Park in Burton on Trent. Situated on the edge of the National Forest, this impressive hotel is part of St. George’s Park – the training ground for all 28 English national football teams – and recognised the World over as the Home of English Football. Sporting excellence is synonymous with this venue, and early next year it will once again become the location for heralding engineering excellence across the pump sector. This key sector of industry continues to play a crucial role in ensuring our food production, utilities, manufacturing processes, transportation and other essential services are maintained, and the 2024 awards programme, will again give special recognition to those companies and individuals who have not just met, but exceeded the demands and challenges presented by the sectors served. This recognition and acknowledgement will be represented by eight award categories, that collectively honour the full breadth of product and service delivery by the pump industry: • Product of the Year – Sponsored by DFA Media Group • Project of the Year – Sponsored by AESSEAL • Environmental Contribution of the Year – Sponsored by SPP Pumps • Manufacturer of the Year – Sponsored by WEG UK • Distributor of the Year – Sponsored by Caprari / Calpeda • Supplier of the Year – Sponsored by Wilo • Contribution to Skills & Training – Sponsored by Crest Pumps • Rising Star Award – Sponsored by World Pumps Once again, we have secured the support and backing from a host of leading brands, all of whom recognise the value and importance of promoting excellence across the sector. In addition to our main category sponsors (highlighted above) there are also other sponsorship options to help support specific elements of the 2024 presentation evening. Several opportunities still exist, so please get in touch if you would like your brand aligned to outstanding engineering achievement. Wayne Rose, Director and CEO at the British Pump Manufacturers Association, commented: “This year’s awards ceremony – the 22nd such event – was as good as any I can remember. The atmosphere was fantastic, and the competition intense. Business and professional excellence deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated and these awards do just that for this most important of sectors. I would therefore encourage all those involved in the pump industry to prepare and submit their entries for the 2024 awards programme.” For further information on the 2024 Pump Industry Awards, and to submit your entry(s) please visit the website – www.pumpindustryawards.com – or call Event Director, Andrew Castle on 07785 290034. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
