‘Hear our voice’ – UK Construction Week invites new PM to Birmingham show
Organisers of UK Construction Week (UKCW), the UK’s biggest event for the built environment, have sent their congratulations to Sir Keir Starmer on last night’s General Election victory – along with an open invitation to this autumn’s show. UKCW Birmingham (NEC, 1-3 October) has invited the new Prime Minister to not only speak at the three-day event, but hear first-hand from industry leaders on the issues they are currently facing, and how the new Labour government can best support a sector that employs over 1.5 million people and contributes more than £130 billion to the UK economy. At UKCW Birmingham, Sir Keir will have the opportunity to speak to a wide range of professionals from the industry, including architects, contractors, designers, planners, surveyors, and key national house builders, including Berkeley Group, Barratt Developments, Persimmon Homes and Bellway. Sam Patel, Divisional Director – Construction, commented: “We would like to congratulate Sir Keir and his party on last night’s victory, and would like to extend an invitation for him and his new Cabinet to come to the NEC in October and hear how they can help our sector over the next five years and beyond. “The theme for UKCW Birmingham 2024 is ‘Growth’, and we hope the new Labour government will quickly set to work on delivering on its manifesto promises on homebuilding, fast track approvals of urban brownfield sites and updating the National Policy Planning Framework.” With its reputation for networking and knowledge sharing, organisers of UKCW Birmingham asked its 2024 Role Models nominees what they would do if they became prime minister. Insightful responses included: Paula McMahon – Honorary Professor of Teesside University (Icon nominee) Kevin Pratt – Director, Purehaus (Pioneer nominee) Rekiya Shodunke, Apprentice Technical Coordinator, Berkeley Group (Rising Star nominee) UKCW Birmingham’s own election wishlist addresses three core topics – mental health, skills and planning: Opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter George Clarke, UKCW Birmingham attracts visitors and exhibitors from across the globe, and will showcase a host of international exhibitors from the likes of Turkey, China and India. The multi award-winning show will feature over 200 exhibitors. 300-plus seminars, CPD sessions and workshops, and over 300 thought leaders and keynote speakers. To find out more and register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://ukcw-birmingham-2024.reg.buzz/cabpr Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Innovation Festival ‘sprint’ to explore opportunities for delivering the lowest carbon AMP8 Programme
Northumbrian Water’s Innovation Festival will take place between 8 and 11 July at Newcastle Racecourse. Esh-Stantec, Avove and Galliford Try have teamed up with Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) to launch a ‘carbon sprint’ at this year’s Innovation Festival. Titled ‘Disrupting the Norm: Bold Path to Net Zero’, the four-day sprint will consider the path to net zero construction and how NWG’s Five Point Plan will deliver the lowest carbon AMP8 Programme possible. Returning for the eighth time and taking place between 8th and 11th July, NWG’s Innovation Festival will bring together attendees from the worlds of construction, science, technology and more, at Newcastle Racecourse to solve some huge environmental and societal challenges. Partners working with NWG through its capital delivery frameworks including Living Water Enterprise and the Ecosystem, as well as suppliers of products and services, delegates from local authorities, education and other related industries, are urged to secure a place at the sprint and work together to develop ideas and initiatives that will improve carbon performance. Sprint delegates will engage in thought-provoking discussions and work collaboratively to consider new ideas for successfully implementing the “The Five Client Carbon Commitments”, launched by the Construction Leadership Council under its CO2nstruct Zero initiative which NWG has recently signed up to. Themes for discussion will include fossil fuel use, low carbon concrete, low carbon steel and PAS 2080 adoption. David Pratt, Divisional Director at Esh-Stantec, said: “The subject of carbon reduction and the road to net zero is of huge significance to the way construction projects are delivered now and in the future. It is a challenge, but also a huge opportunity for real change to be delivered throughout the AMP8 programme, ensuring sustainable practice is woven through all areas of construction, from procurement to design and delivery. This sprint is another important step in that journey.” The theme for this year’s festival is ‘Speed and Scale’ and will focus on growing good ideas at pace and will also help to progress on existing ideas from previous festivals. The sprint concept follows a specific and structured five-stage process – created by New York Times bestselling author, Jake Knapp, when he worked at Google – and is led by a sprint lead. Leading the sprint from NWG are Donna Rawlinson, Principal Project Manager, and Ben Gilbert, Project Manager, who commented: “Our Innovation Festival has supported our carbon reduction journey hugely over recent years, each sprint delivering real value helping us get to where we are currently. We expect this year’s sprint to help us accelerate our delivery of our reduction commitments outlined in the Construction Leadership Councils ‘CO2nstruct Zero initiative’, by delivering real reductions through key areas such as procurement, material selection and improving the construction processes we use in delivering our capital investment programme.” Earlier this year, Esh-Stantec and Avove were named as Living Water Enterprise partners by NWG – a collaborative delivery vehicle made up of the water company and 12 supply partners responsible for delivering its large-scale construction programmes throughout AMP8 and beyond. Galliford Try is appointed to deliver on NWG’s Wider Ecosystem Framework. To register a place at ‘Disrupting the Norm: Bold Path to Net Zero’ sprint visit: https://www.innovationfestival.org/the-festival/sprints/avove-and-esh-stantec-and-galliford-try/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Shaping the Future: Offsite Construction Week Advisory Group Announced
The UK construction industry is set to experience a shift in thinking with the September launch of Offsite Construction Week (OCW) – an unprecedented collaboration amongst leading industry pioneers and associations. Organisers of the influential Offsite Expo and Offsite Awards have partnered with industry leaders with the specific goal of inspiring strategic collaboration across the offsite construction sector. A UK first, Offsite Construction Week will bring together clients, manufacturers, developers, architects, specifiers, project managers, legislative and accrediting bodies for a week-long series of events, debates, and discussions on how to accelerate sector growth by removing current barriers to MMC implementation. Uniting industry leaders from different construction and material sectors, the newly-formed Advisory Group will create a set of objectives for successfully expanding the application of offsite construction methods and technologies, ensuring that every stakeholder’s perspective is reflected in the resulting strategy. The Advisory Group comprises 20 of the most well-informed and respected industry figures at the forefront of offsite innovation from pioneering companies and industry bodies. For full details of the Advisory Group, go to: www.offsiteconstructionweek.co.uk/advisory-group Together, these industry leaders will curate the Offsite Expo Masterclasses, roundtable debates and events that take place throughout the five days of Offsite Construction Week. Through a series of practical seminars that share insider knowledge of projects success factors and learnings – speakers will offer solutions to legislative, procurement, procedural, and financial roadblocks to accelerating the pace of implementing offsite methods and products in construction. Key topics to be addressed will include but are not limited to, creating industrialised construction ecosystems, enhancing building safety, increasing productivity, closing the performance gap, driving innovation, digital delivery for tomorrow, creating a zero-snag culture and delivering against net zero carbon targets. On behalf of the Advisory Group, spokesperson Tudi Sully said, “We will act as industry ambassadors for delivering a better built environment, chairing roundtable debates and connecting decision makers from various client organisations, industry bodies, government stakeholders and the supply chain. “By engaging in an open, unbiased and critical debate of current roadblocks to the implementation of approaches such as DfMA, offsite, MMC and industrialisation; showcasing past project challenges and successes; and offering insights from different vertical sectors, the Advisory Group will demonstrate a roadmap for the wider adoption of these innovative solutions. “With the ambitious goal to help accelerate the UK government’s agenda for a safer, more sustainable and faster-growing built environment, the Advisory Group will not only connect top decision makers but will also oversee an educational outreach to young professionals, apprentices and students in construction programmes – all of which will start at Offsite Construction Week.” The Advisory Group’s involvement during Offsite Construction Week will include curating the programme and leading the Masterclass seminars, sharing insights from the organisations they represent and presenting a highly focused, factual overview of the sector and the challenges it faces. Whilst the discussions in the Masterclass Theatre will equip attendees with a well-balanced view of the industry’s roadmap for the future, the Advisory Group will set the tone for a series of live webinars on some of the most pressing issues in the industry. About Offsite Construction Week Taking place from 16-20 September 2024, Offsite Construction Week will showcase the most comprehensive series of offsite technology events ever seen in the UK. The aim of the curated selection of seminars, industry awards ceremony, site tours and features exhibition, is to highlight the benefits and advancements in offsite construction, driving innovation and collaboration across the sector. Unilateral Support Offsite Construction Week is supported by a robust lineup of industry associations, including BUILDOFFSITE (BOS), Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT,) Light Steel Frame Association (LSFA), MMC Ireland, Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA), Offsite Alliance, Steel Construction Institute (SCI), Structural Timber Association (STA) and others have come together to support the most comprehensive series of offsite events the country has ever seen. To keep informed go to: www.offsiteconstructionweek.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Robotics and Artificial Intelligence event highlights opportunities to speed up deployment of technology in challenging environments
INDUSTRIES and businesses which fail to embrace the safe deployment of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence to improve their operations may face a similar fate as those who shunned other major technological opportunities such as the Industrial Revolution or the internet. That was the view shared at a major industry conference – “Harnessing Robotics and Artificial Intelligence in Challenging Environments” – which attracted almost 300 delegates and exhibitors to the event at Energus, Workington, Cumbria on Tuesday (May 21). Attendees heard how embracing robotics and AI can help meet the two global challenges of climate change and energy security. Delegates heard RAICo, a collaboration between UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Sellafield Ltd and the University of Manchester, plays a vital role, aiding collaboration and bringing the greatest minds together – including end-users, problem-holders and researchers – to find solutions to shared nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering challenges. The deployment of robotics and AI was described as being key to accelerating nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering in a way which delivers missions safer, faster and more cost effectively. Keynote speakers from the nuclear sector, including Professor Sir Ian Chapman, CEO of the UKAEA; Mr David Peattie, CEO of the NDA; Mr Roddy Miller, Nuclear Operations Director at Sellafield Ltd, and Francis Livens, Professor of Radiochemistry at The University of Manchester, shared with delegates their visions for the safe deployment of the latest technologies. David Peattie said: “I’m passionate about creating opportunities for collaboration across the NDA group, the wider sector, academia and the supply chain and particularly inspiring young people to engage in the work we are doing and develop innovative solutions. “We are proud to be part of RAICo and committed to exploring how we can utilise technology and innovation to create a safer working environment for our employees, deliver more effectively and efficiently, to leave a more sustainable legacy for generations to come.” Roddy Miller said: “Harnessing the power of robotics and AI is not just about technological advancement; it’s about creating a sustainable and safer environment for future generations. This event highlighted the incredible potential of these technologies and the important role Cumbria plays in this transformative journey.” During a panel session hosted by Professor Rob Buckingham, Executive Director of the UKAEA, in which keynote speakers were asked their views on risk, Ian Chapman highlighted that, while safety of operations was paramount, it was also important to consider the risk of industry and businesses failing to adopt technologies which help them achieve some tasks safer, faster and more cost effectively. He said: “I also consider aggregate risk in conversations like this. The biggest risk for the nuclear sector is that it will cease to exist. Just go back to the Industrial Revolution, or the internet, those (businesses) who decided not to engage, those companies do not exist.” Engaging with supply chain companies was also highlighted as vital for industries to fully embrace robotics and AI. The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) announced the launch of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster at the event. This cluster brings together organisations with a shared vision to elevate Cumbria as a globally recognised centre of excellence in the field of robotics engineering. RAICo is a founding member of the cluster which is set to play a crucial role in developing advanced robotics technologies and skills that address industrial challenges, particularly in the nuclear industry and other challenging environments. Dr Kirsty Hewitson, Director of RAICo, said: “This cluster represents a significant opportunity for synergy and innovation amongst Cumbria’s robotics experts and industries. Through this collaborative effort, we are set to map out and expand the capabilities of robotics in the region, driving forward our joint goals of technological advancement and capacity building.” Kirsty added: “The supply chain is absolutely crucial to RAICo’s success and that broader success across both Sellafield, the wider NDA estate but also the UK Atomic Energy Authority. “They (the supply chain) absolutely possess those unique skill sets, technologies that they have developed over many years which we should be tapping into and harnessing and working collaboratively with them. “It was great to see a number of those large and small companies come to the event and join in the discussions taking place across the room.” Organised by FIS360 on behalf of RAICo and its partners, the event also highlighted the social impact of robotics and AI in Cumbria and beyond. Adopting robotics and AI provides opportunities to upskill workforces, create new higher skilled jobs, and offer exciting careers for young people and graduates. Eleven students aged 16 to 18 from West Lakes Academy and the Energy Coast University Technical College (UTC) who took part in a four-week sprint programme set by RAICo and iSH, to develop a small robot that could move a mock nuclear barrel around a track, shared their learnings and experiences at the event. Mr Richard Christensen, Senior Mechanical Design Engineer at RAICo, said: “What has been achieved by these talented students in such a short time is incredibly impressive, and watching them speak so confidently (at the event) about their findings was fantastic. “At RAICo, we want to champion the next generation of innovators within the robotics and AI industry, providing students and young professionals with opportunities to help them get a foot in the door for a rewarding career.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Midlands Engine Partnership showcases £48bn+ investment opportunities across the Midlands at UKREiiF 2024
The Midlands Engine Partnership came together at this year’s UK Real Estate Infrastructure Investment Forum [21-23 May] to showcase to a global audience partner priority investment propositions worth in excess of £48bn and with the potential to create around 380,000 jobs – more than doubling current jobs in the region. For the first time, the Midlands Engine Partnership hosted its own pavilion giving local authority, business and university representatives a platform to present investment opportunities from across the Midlands. Panel discussions covered diverse topics from how Lincolnshire is powering the low-carbon energy sector, and how multiple developments will rejuvenate Derby city centre, to how Worcester’s Shrub Hill Development will bring a boost to the city with 5000 new jobs. Panel sessions in the pavilion were followed by the Midlands Investment Reception on Tuesday evening. An established event at UKREiiF, the Reception featured a welcome from Sir John Peace and the newly elected combined authority mayors – Richard Parker for the West Midlands and Claire Ward for the East. An updated Midlands Investment Portfolio worth £48bn+ Midlands Engine partner priority propositions can be accessed through the Midlands Investment Portfolio, updated for 2024. Newly added propositions include: St George’s’ development site in Wolverhampton city centre; Nottingham Studios, home to the recently launched R&I hub; and Sandwell’s ‘Grove Lane Masterplan’, a key regeneration area delivering more than 800 new homes in Smethwick. Altogether, the updated portfolio showcases the 90 most significant capital investment opportunities in the Midlands across a range of sectors, with a Gross Development Value over £48bn. Presenting a clear, easy-to-use tool for investors, the sites within the Portfolio have the potential to create 380,000 jobs, driving economic and social prosperity across the Midlands region. Sir John Peace, Chairman of Midlands Engine, said: “The potential for the Midlands to lead the way in driving national economic growth is hugely significant. UKREiiF continues to provide the Midlands Engine Partnership with the platform it needs to demonstrate to global investors that investing in the Midlands and its exceptional development opportunities is a sound business decision.” Launch of ‘Invest in UK University R&D’ campaign with £3 million fund A campaign demonstrating how university research and development can be the catalyst for investment in the region was also officially launched at the Midlands Investment Reception at UKREiiF. The campaign, co-led by Midlands Innovation and Midlands Engine, presents five investment prospectuses – each with a focus on a sector where the Midlands leads the world in R&D: agri-tech, creative and digital, health and life sciences, transport technology and zero carbon energy. Speaking at UKREiiF, the Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Andrew Griffith MP, announced an award of £1.5 million from the UK’s International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF) to support the campaign over the next two years. This is being matched by regional partners to provide £3m. The Minister said: “‘UK universities have directly attracted nearly £5bn of international industry funding into their research since 2015. But they are also a significant part of the UK’s global reputation as one of the world’s most innovative economies – attracting global investment that grows our economy and improves lives for people across Britain. I am delighted to announce £1.5m of Government support from the International Science Partnership Fund for this pioneering Campaign – led by our world-class universities in the Midlands. With this support, and working in partnership with the Government’s Science Innovation Network, universities will leverage their extensive global connections to alumni, industry and research to help drive inward investment into the regional economy.’ Sir John Peace, Midlands Engine Chairman, commented: “Our universities continue to be drivers of innovation with huge potential to attract investment from across the world. This campaign – the first of its kind – puts Midlands universities at the forefront of driving growth in the regional and wider UK economy.” Read more about the campaign launchwww.midlandsinnovation.org.uk/midlands-universities-launch-3m-campaign Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pexhurst Hosts Informative Industry Insights Event on Sustainability
With sustainability being a key focus for the built environment, encouraging conversation and educating industry professionals on the importance of designing and building future-proof buildings is absolutely essential. To that end, Pexhurst recently hosted an Industry Insights/CPD morning in partnership with Landways and Mitsubishi Electric. The morning, held at Bread Street Kitchen & Bar in Liverpool Street, London, began with a warm welcome and registration at 8.15am, followed by breakfast that provided all attendees with an opportunity to network and connect with like-minded professionals from various sectors across the industry. Landways delivered the opening CPD session on multi-use digital and DC power infrastructure design and how this can help deliver smarter, greener solutions. The in-depth Q&A session that followed allowed those attending to engage directly with the experts, address queries about the sustainability advantages it could bring and deepen their understanding. Mitsubishi Electric then took to the stage to present the importance of retrofitting building stock and why choosing heat pump technology as a low-carbon solution could be pivotal for the future of the industry. Additionally, the session highlighted what good looks like and how it can be achieved. Following the event, the attendees completed a survey to review the Industry Insights morning and give their feedback. The respondents highlighted the importance of face-to-face interactions and the networking opportunities in-person events offer. One attendee commented: “The morning was incredibly informative and there was a good mix of clients and consultants in attendance. Great work team Pexhurst!” Delighted with the turnout for the event and the conversations created, Pexhurst Director Nick Tagliarini said: “This was our second Industry Insights/ CPD morning, following the success of our first, last year. We were absolutely thrilled with the turnout and the attendees were keen to learn and engage with the content. “It was another hugely successful event and we were incredibly grateful for the valuable contributions from our partners, Landways and Mitsubishi Electric.” Pexhurst remains committed to industry excellence and creating opportunities for professionals to keep up-to-date on the latest advancements and best practices in the industry. Follow us on LinkedIn to stay informed on all relevant industry news – https://www.linkedin.com/company/pexhurst-services-limited/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals