BDA Better With Brick Campaign Celebrates Clay Brick as the Ultimate Contemporary Building Material
The Brick Development Association (BDA) is commemorating clay brick’s appeal as a building material for the ages with the launch of its Better with Brick campaign. Packed with facts, stats and blogs featuring expert analysis and insights, Better with Brick proves there is more to clay brick than meets the eye. An historic and reliable building material, clay brick’s outstanding credentials make it the ideal building source for the here and now. It is a viable long-term investment, has excellent availability and a lower carbon footprint compared to many alternative materials. Better with Brick provides a comprehensive look at these benefits and more. So, if you thought you knew everything there was to know about the wonders of clay brick, Better with Brick may give you cause to think again. Keith Aldis, CEO of the BDA said: “With Better with Brick, our goal is clear: to reveal the timeless charm and unwavering reliability of clay brick, a material that has long been the cornerstone for builders, architects, and homeowners. This campaign will highlight why clay brick isn’t just a choice, but the best choice for your building needs. So, please join us in celebrating clay brick; a gift of a building resource that keeps on giving.” Giving a Voice to Clay Brick’s Unsung Qualities Covering topics that verify clay brick’s vital role in fulfilling our current and future building needs, Better with Brick is a chance to discover fascinating insights into this tried, trusted and beloved building material. Clay brick’s strength, reliability, design-friendly qualities and limitless kerb appeal are among its renowned beneficial traits – but what about its sustainable value aside from its inbuilt long-term weather resistance? Also, have you considered how clay brick could be pivotal to decarbonising construction and contributing to the national effort to achieve net zero? And there’s more: did you know that clay brick’s non-combustible performance is hallmarked by its A1 fire-rating? Better with Brick will outline in full each of these crucial underlying benefits in a series of expert blogs that will also reveal how the Brick Makers Quality Charter manages its credibility in respect of clay bricks. The BDA encourages you to follow them on social media platforms to hear directly from brick manufacturers, architects, and other industry experts about why clay brick is their preferred choice. Search for @brickdevelopmentassociation on your favorite platforms and join the conversation using the hashtag #betterwithbrick. But the campaign doesn’t stop there! Be sure to watch the launch video here and stay tuned for upcoming interviews and videos that will be posted on their social media channels in the coming weeks and months. “Better with Brick” offers a comprehensive and compelling exploration of this timeless material, revealing its surprising relevance and potential in modern construction. Discover more about the benefits of clay brick and the BDA’s campaign here: https://www.brick.org.uk/better-with-brick. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
UK infrastructure leaders convene to consider latest policy reforms at this year’s NSIPs Forum
With policy reforms for national projects high on the agenda for the UK government, major infrastructure leaders will come together at the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) Forum in London on 6-7 March 2024, to examine the latest policy updates and plans to speed up the consenting process. The two-day event, which will take place at the Royal National Hotel in London, will provide an opportunity for key stakeholders in major infrastructure projects, to network and share ideas concerning some of the biggest challenges currently facing the sector. Some of the key issues under discussion will be policy reforms, changes impacting the regime,and practical advice on all elements necessary for developing NSIPs that lead to the successful granting of Development Consent Orders (DCOs). A keynote address at this year’s forum will be delivered by James Heath, chief executive at National Infrastructure Commission (NIC). He will explore recommendations made in the second National Infrastructure Assessment. Other speakers include Natalie Freislich-Mills, strategic lead – skills for infrastructure at Suffolk County Council, who will give practical advice on how to build an effective skills strategy for NSIPs. While Douglas Johnson, director of advocacy at the global strategic communications and advocacy group SEC Newgate, will provide valuable insight into improving consultation and community outreach for major infrastructure projects. A panel comprising Jamie Baldwin, development project director at Ørsted (the largest energy company in Denmark), and Charlotte Rushmere, principal planning officer for national infrastructure at Essex County Council, will discuss the future of major infrastructure planning and how to create certainty in the process while navigating timeline constraints. Another panel discussion involving Jim Kitchen, national infrastructure manager at the Environment Agency, will explore how to create a collaborative planning process – one that includes working with key stakeholders across the heritage, nature and environment sectors. The event will be chaired by Gideon Amos OBE, the former planning inspector, UK Infrastructure Planning Commissioner and head of the Town and Country Planning Association, now managing director of Amos Ellis Consulting. As a current Council member of the National Infrastructure Planning Association, Mr Amos keeps a close eye on policy and practice developments and feels it is essential for the industry to come together after a sustained period of economic and political upheaval. Mr Amos said: “The NSIPs Forum 2024 offers a valuable platform for leaders in national infrastructure projects to reflect on the past year, provide practical insights into planning and delivery, and identify opportunities for organisations to make good progress amid ongoing economic instability. “This year I’m delighted our programme will span across a range of salient issues involving policy reforms and provide practical solutions to help improve outcomes for communities, contribute towards net zero and meet future population needs. “There will be plenty of opportunities during the event for delegates to network with over 250 major infrastructure leaders. We look forward to welcoming all our attendees.” The two-day event is organised by Waterfront Conference Company, which delivers physical and virtual policy conferences for the planning, energy, rail, ports and maritime sectors. For more information and to register for the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects Forum 2024, visit the event website https://www.nsipsforum.co.uk/ or for other Waterfront events, visit https://www.waterfrontconferencecompany.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Veriforce CHAS secures Feefo Platinum Trusted Service award for fifth year running
Veriforce CHAS, the supply chain risk management and compliance specialist, has consolidated its position as the accreditation provider of choice after being awarded the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for an impressive fifth consecutive year. The award is a testament to Veriforce CHAS’s commitment to delivering exceptional service to its contractors and clients. Each year, Feefo, the respected global buyer review platform, recognises businesses that consistently excel in providing outstanding customer experiences. The Platinum Trusted Service Award is a testament to the positive feedback received from numerous satisfied customers, independently validating the company’s dedication to quality. In an age where reliable customer service is not guaranteed, the Veriforce CHAS team consistently exceeds expectations, showcasing a commitment to excellence that sets them apart from competitors. Glowing testimonials from hundreds of customers, that are published online by Feefo for complete transparency, praise the CHAS customer service team for their helpful phone support and highlight their dedication to delivering an exceptional customer experience. There is also recognition for Veriforce CHAS’s streamlined and stress-free online submission process. Veriforce CHAS not only ensures excellent customer service for its contractors but also offers a range of additional benefits that set Veriforce CHAS membership apart. These perks include access to exclusive insurance offers, discounted e-learning resources, free legal advice, a 20% discount with Speedy Hire, free TradePoint cards, and discounted membership to Checkatrade.com. Expressing his pride in receiving the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service award, Veriforce CHAS Managing Director Ian McKinnon comments: “At Veriforce CHAS, we continuously strive to offer unparalleled service to our contractors and clients. Receiving the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award for the 5th year in a row is a tremendous honour and recognises the hard work and dedication of our entire team. “We believe that exceptional customer service is the cornerstone of our success,” Ian continues. “Our commitment goes beyond industry norms, and we are continuously investing in innovative ways to enhance our customer’s journey with us. While others may focus on different priorities, we remain steadfast in our dedication to our customers. We are proud to lead by example and set a standard that is the envy of our industry.” If you would like to learn more about the benefits of being a Veriforce CHAS member, please call 0345 521 9111. – the award-winning customer service team are waiting to talk to you. Or find out more by visiting: http://www.chas.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
BiKBBI Annual Conference highlights collaboration as solution to drive change in KBB installation sector
On Tuesday, 6 February the British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) held its 2024 conference in Westminster. This annual event, hosted at the prestigious QEII Centre and sponsored once again by Senstec and Quooker, is a crucial forum for professionals, industry leaders and experts from the KBB industry to gain insight, discuss key topics and make valuable connections. BiKBBI’s 2024 conference theme was “Driving industry change through collaboration”, and speakers and panellists shared opinions and experiences and debated the sector’s challenges and opportunities, across a series of engaging presentations and discussions. The event was hosted by Hannah Prevett – Deputy Editor of The Times Enterprise Network – who expertly guided activities and thoughts throughout the day. The conference was opened by CEO of BiKBBI Damian Walters, who celebrated the existing collaboration from sponsors, retail partners and stakeholders which drives positive change for the sector but warned there is still much to do and a need for greater collaboration from the whole industry on the subject of education, standards, compliance and sustainability. Results of the BiKBBI Installer Survey 2024 were also unveiled at the conference. Keynote speakers included Fergus Harradence, Deputy Director of Infrastructure Construction & Rail at the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) who shared the UK government’s predictions for 2024, highlighting that, despite the continued challenges with a shrinking workforce and the continued skills gap, there was growth potential with both consumer and business confidence increasing which would ultimately benefit the construction sector. Emily Wallace, CEO of the Trade Association Forum (TAF), also presented on the topic of the value of associations and what can be achieved when industries work together to influence policy, face challenges and grow skills. Industry insight data from AMA Research was presented alongside key findings from the Bathroom Manufacturers Association’s Understanding the Bathroom Installer Survey 2023 and kbbreview’s Retailer Survey 2024 as well as BiKBBI’s own Installer Survey 2024 – all highlighting collaboration as the pathway to success. BiKBBI hosted a sustainability panel featuring Phil Viner from Triton Showers, Tom Reynolds from the BMA and Lyrical Communications’ David Ventris-Field to discuss how to reach and support KBB installers better on the topic of sustainability. BiKBBI’s Installer Survey 2024 highlighted that 1 in 5 installers have noticed an increase in customers asking for recommendations on environmentally friendly products, and over 50% of installers feel the industry is not doing enough to reduce its impact on the environment. Diversity Ambassador for BiKBBI, the Rt. Hon Stuart Lawrence, supported by James Moore from the MoD’s Careers Transition Partnership and Apprentice Plumber Sophie Maguire, led a workshop on why and how the industry should work towards improving diversity and inclusion, highlighting the benefits that a diverse workforce can bring to businesses and the industry. Stuart Lawrence then asked delegates at the conference to sign BiKBBI’s ‘Charter for Change’ – a commitment to work with BiKBBI to explore a revised inclusivity recruitment strategy– with 55 businesses pledging their support for the charter. Education and apprenticeships also remained on the 2024 conference agenda, being a key area of focus for BiKBBI as a route to tackling the current skills gap. A panel of experts, led by Hannah Hockley from The Apprenticeship Partner, included Wickes Apprenticeship Programme Manager Connie Collett, independent retailer and apprenticeships champion Simon Taylor, KBB apprentice employer Paul Miles, and previous KBB apprentice Elliott Perry. The panel discussed recent advances in apprenticeships and training, including the new standalone Apprenticeship Standard for Fitted Furniture Installers reinforcing that access to education and training is integral to resolving the skills shortage, with Hannah Hockley highlighting the importance of the whole industry recognising the severity of the situation and the importance of support from all areas of the sector. Damian Walters, CEO of BiKBBI, said ‘The BiKBBI annual conference has seen significant growth over the past three years, and it is not by coincidence. The attendance of so many brands and businesses here today is representative of the importance that installation plays to the whole industry and recognises the role that we fulfil as an institute. The theme of the day was collaboration, which was demonstrated by the 160 delegates who took time away from their busy day jobs to come here, join the conversation, and support this vital sector of the KBB industry. But now the real work begins, and we will continue to drive the agenda on the topics raised today with the support of our corporate sponsors, retail partners and wider stakeholders. I would like to personally thank all contributors, speakers and panellists involved in today’s event, along with all of the delegates who, through collaboration, made the event a success and have given the industry a solid platform to move forward from.” The results from the BiKBBI Installer Survey 2024 can be view here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CIOB launches £10k award in memory of inspirational built environment professional
The legacy of a respected built environment professional will live on thanks to a new Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) award. Paul Dockerill had an immense passion for building safety, skills development, and improving fire safety in the UK up until his tragic and untimely death in November 2022. After being raised in a low-income household and leaving school without qualifications, Paul became a carpenter and joiner in his younger years before progressing his career within the construction sector. Paul worked in social housing for more than 20 years and before he passed away was director of energy and programme management at a non-profit housing provider. His meteoric rise also saw him achieve FCIOB and CIOB Trustee statuses. To commemorate his life, CIOB has launched The Paul Dockerill Award – with a value of £10,000, which is open to any UK resident looking to develop a research project fuelled by innovation, skills development, fire safety, and resident engagement. For example, applicants could seek funding for developing a building safety app or platform for social housing residents to access information on safety and fire issues in their homes. Antonia Lanyiova, Qualifications Liaison Manager at CIOB, said: “Paul was a visionary and a dedicated professional in the construction industry, and this award reflects his passion for innovation in building safety through mentoring, skills development, and, most importantly, improving fire safety and resident engagement in the UK. “He believed that positive change could come from anyone, regardless of their background or professional affiliation, so we are thrilled to open this award to anyone with fresh and innovative ideas. “Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a student, or someone with a unique perspective, we encourage you to submit your innovative project or idea for consideration. You do not necessarily need to work within the construction sector to be considered. “Thank you to Paul’s family, friends, colleagues, professionals, and the amazing CIOB staff for their unwavering support throughout the journey, making The Paul Dockerill Award a reality.” Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, Paul worked closely with the fire brigade to ensure their response to a fire in a high-rise building was as quick, safe, and effective as possible. He was fundamental to the development of the Twinnedit digital twin solution following the 2017 tragedy. The idea of creating the award was inspired by his family, friends, and colleagues, all of whom were touched by Paul’s generosity. Kayleigh Hills, Paul’s daughter, says: “Dad was well loved by everyone who had the fortune to meet him, and he often shared his knowledge and skills with anyone who would listen. He never forgot what it felt like to be the family scraping by in social housing, or the new kid on the construction site getting his hands dirty.” Applications opened on 1 February 2024, and must be submitted by 30 June 2024. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed in July 2024, with the funding available to the selected successful applicants for up to 18 months. Meanwhile, applications for CIOB’s Construction Innovation Scholarship, designed for aspiring construction management professionals by providing a platform to get involved with a research project or enterprising work experience activity, will be available at the same time. Last year’s winner was Don Samarasinghe, a lecturer in Built Environment at Massey University in New Zealand. He was given funding towards his project titled: Pioneering Sustainable Future in Construction through Raw Earth 3D Printing Training. For more information, visit. www.ciob.me/scholarships Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LABC spotlight exemplary construction projects at industry awards
LABC has showcased projects that demonstrate high quality, and exemplary standards in construction at an industry event in London attended by more than 900 leading industry figures. A panel of industry experts at the LABC Building Excellence Awards Grand Finals judged the highest quality projects, professionals, and teams from around England and Wales to showcase solutions to complex technical or construction issues, site constraints and technical innovation. One of the unique aspects of the awards is their recognition of the vital contribution public sector building control teams make as part of the project team in all manner of projects, from individual housing extensions to large housing developments. To this end, winners in the ‘place’ categories included nationally significant projects such as the conversion of Battersea Power Station, as well as residential projects including the conversion of Smithy Cottage in Yorkshire, and the high-volume new housing development of The Green in Devon alongside the small social housing development of Hen Orsaf in Gwynedd. Further categories included Best Non-residential New Build, won by Lancaster Energy Centre and Best Purpose-Built Accommodation, won by Eign Gate in Herefordshire. Smaller Build Projects Within smaller build projects, Best Individual New Home was awarded to Above Town in Devon and Best Residential Extension was taken by Whin Hill Road in South Yorkshire. Black Pheasant Barn in Suffolk took Best Residential Conversion to a Single New Home and Best Non-Residential Extension, Alteration, or Conversation was taken by Ince Benet in Merseyside. This year’s awards are especially timely thanks to new measures coming into force as part of the Building Safety Act. This includes professional registration of Building Control Professionals backed by competency assessments. LABC’s chief executive, Lorna Stimpson commented: “These awards showcase the breadth of projects that building control is involved in, each with their own building regulations and standards, as well as the skills and expertise needed in our industry to support them. “When Dame Judith Hackitt threw down the gauntlet to the whole construction industry in 2017, the building control sector was the first to focus on improving skills, proving its competence and bringing in new generations of talented workers. “The winning projects at this year’s Building Excellence Awards are shining examples of quality, professionalism, and high standards expected of registered professionals. They clearly demonstrate the progress made since 2017, as well as setting a bar for future projects to aspire to.” Criteria used to choose the winners included employing creative solutions to improve sustainability and energy efficiency, as well as cooperative team working. The Best Small New Housing Development was taken by Chestnuts, Hertfordshire, whilst the Best Medium Volume New Housing Development was named as St Mary’s Vale in Leeds. The Best Large Social Housing Development was the Former George Gay Gardens in Swindon. Entries for the 2024 Building Excellence Awards are now open. Find out more on the LABC website: www.labc.co.uk/awards Winning projects www.labc.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals