bdc magazine

Vp plc launches its Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero

Specialist equipment rental group Vp plc formalises its environmental ethos. To help mark Earth Day on April 22nd, global specialist equipment rental group Vp plc has officially launched its Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050. The roadmap was actually initiated in 2021 and has already marked a number

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SUPPLY CHAIN SUSTAINABILITY SCHOOL HONOURED WITH QUEEN’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE IN THE CATEGORY OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Supply Chain Sustainability School (the “School”) has joined an exclusive group of companies in receiving Britain’s most coveted business prize; a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Launched in 2012, the School is an industry-wide collaboration of major companies to enable a sustainable built environment through knowledge and collaboration. The School is

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Nathan Barr appointed as new managing director for Westgate.

Westgate situated in Stafford are pleased to announce the arrival of Nathan Barr as their new Managing Director. Nathan joins the business following a successful career at ODL Europe where he has driven revenue growth through market share and introduction of new products via various channels. Having established his career

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K SYSTEMS SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS TALL BUILDING AWARDS

Kilwaughter Minerals brand, K Systems, has been named as a finalist on three projects at this year’s prestigious Tall Building Awards, in recognition of the company’s position as a leading system provider of External Wall Insulation (EWI). The Tall Buildings Awards intend to celebrate those that are developing unique design and engineering

Read More »

Forrest Park developers back Aycliffe’s Make Your Mark awards

The developers of one of the biggest new industrial developments in the region are showing their commitment to the local community by backing an awards event. Richardson Barberry, the team behind the huge Forrest Park development at Aycliffe Business Park, has joined the growing list of high-profile names to back

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SMT GB proudly announces return to Hillhead 

After a two-year break from exhibitions due to COVID-19, SMT GB is excited to showcase a wide range of the latest Volvo machines and service solutions at Hillhead 2022. On the SMT GB stand, visitors will have the opportunity to see a host of new Volvo excavators, displayed for the

Read More »

LAND & WATER STARTS PHASE TWO OF WORKS AT BLENHEIM

After completing phase one of works at the end of 2020, leading wet civil engineering firm Land & Water, is now starting phase two of a wider restoration project at Blenheim Estate. The restoration works, which are due to start this month, will see Land & Water begin the first

Read More »

6 Safety Tips For Maintaining An Empty Property

Your property may fall vacant for various reasons. Perhaps you’ve just relocated and are yet to rent or sell your property. Other times, you may have moved out for renovations or gone for a long holiday. Leaving your property uninhabited may expose it to numerous risks. For instance, thieves find

Read More »

PREMIER MODULAR IS AWARDED EUROPE’S FIRST ESG CERTIFICATION

Premier Modular, one of the UK’s leading offsite construction specialists, has been awarded Europe’s first ESG certification. Following a rigorous independent audit conducted by global testing, inspection and certification specialists SGS, Premier has been assessed and certified for its management and performance in Environmental, Social and Governance. According to David

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First residents set to move in at Meppershall development

Davidsons Homes is set to welcome the first residents into their new homes at a housing development in Meppershall. The developer is building a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes at Woodlands Rest, located off Shefford Road. Of the 145 homes being built, two are due to be

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Latest Issue
Issue 335 : Dec 2025

bdc magazine

Vp plc launches its Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero

Specialist equipment rental group Vp plc formalises its environmental ethos. To help mark Earth Day on April 22nd, global specialist equipment rental group Vp plc has officially launched its Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero by 2050. The roadmap was actually initiated in 2021 and has already marked a number of milestones, including reviewing and modifying data capture procedures for greenhouse gas emissions, waste and water, committing and developing Science-based Targets for all scopes, and implementing actions from a water audit. Vp plc has also already collated group-wide environmental initiatives and promoted its sustainability report to stakeholders, switched to 100% REGO*-backed renewable electricity that has reduced Scope 2 emissions by 70%, and is conducting a comprehensive Scope 3 inventory. Between 2022 and 2023, Vp plc has pledged to optimise its fleet management by introducing PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) and EVs (electric vehicles) into the fleet where it is appropriate to do so. A behavioural change programme will see green driver training (most divisions have already achieved FORS Gold), travel reduced, the introduction of environmental and waste champions, and environmental toolbox talks. Last year, diversion from landfill stood at 94%, compared to 93% in 2020 and 80% in 2019. ISO 50001 will be achieved by September (2022) at all the group’s UK sites and divisions, although three of the group’s divisions – Brandon Hire Station, MEP Hire and ESS – have already achieved this accreditation. Diesel alternatives will be sourced by exploring the EV market for larger EV fleet options and HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel is available to customers at all branches. To build on its work in 2021, Vp in 2022 is looking to partner with a range of wildlife and rivers trusts around the country with exemplary nature conservation and restoration projects – some reintroducing white tailed eagles, lake sturgeon and bison, others tackling sand dune restoration and community rewilding. They are also pursuing an exciting close partnership with the Wildlife Trusts – the national umbrella organisation. “At home”, it is looking at biodiversity offsets such as the planting of trees and shrubs, installing bird boxes and feeders, and replacing lawns with wildflower meadows. Then between 2023 and 2025, it will support trials and encourage the adoption of hydrogen combustion engines and actively engage its supply chain in their own Net Zero agenda. The group’s sustainability programme manager Fred Pilkington, who has a MSc in Conservation Science, said: “Our roadmap strikes a balance between ambition and realism but what makes it distinguished is we have commitment from the very top of the organisation. Added to that has been the encouragement and motivation we have received from colleagues and suppliers who are putting some real time and effort behind it. We are now grabbing the bull by the horns and shouting about it.” To view a video about Vp plc’s Short Term Roadmap to Net Zero, please go to video link is https://youtu.be/4S-benpf-jo.

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SUPPLY CHAIN SUSTAINABILITY SCHOOL HONOURED WITH QUEEN’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE IN THE CATEGORY OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Supply Chain Sustainability School (the “School”) has joined an exclusive group of companies in receiving Britain’s most coveted business prize; a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Launched in 2012, the School is an industry-wide collaboration of major companies to enable a sustainable built environment through knowledge and collaboration. The School is unique – it enables collaboration between competitor companies who share a common supply chain, and a realisation that the industry cannot develop the sustainable buildings and infrastructure society it needs without more sustainable suppliers. Its free online learning platform gives 50,000 registered users access to 3,000 learning resources, 400 virtual training sessions each year, and a range of diagnostic and benchmarking tools to support companies on focusing their sustainability strategies. The School has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development because its approach has delivered significant environmental, social and economic benefits to its Members and Partners. The School has led pioneering work to set new standards in climate change, modern slavery, social value, sustainable supply chain management and more. Ian Heptonstall, Director of Supply Chain Sustainability School said: “When we first floated the idea of an online sustainability learning platform for the built environment industry, we were told it was unlikely that competing companies would collaborate, nor would people use an online training platform. But most of all, that the supply chain were simply not interested in sustainability. “A decade on and 50,000 people have trained through the School – last year alone we had over 100,000 e-learning downloads. We’re thrilled to receive a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. I see it as thank you to all those people who have joined us to collaborate and drive real sustainable change across our industry.” Co-funded by over 180 collaborating companies (Partners), the School is delivered by an independent third-party consultancy, Action Sustainability. Leadership is provided by a School Board comprising elected representatives of Partners, responsible for fiscal governance and strategic direction. A Code of Ethics is signed by all Partners as part of the School Constitution and Partners lead the direction of the School content and activities through leadership groups. Her Majesty The Queen personally approves the winners and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy publicly announced the winners on Thursday 21 April 2022. Now in its 56th year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the country, only awarded for outstanding achievements, entitling winning businesses to use the esteemed Queen’s Awards Emblem for the next five years. Shaun McCarthy OBE, Chair of Supply Chain Sustainability School said: “I was honoured by Her Majesty in 2013 with an OBE for services to sustainability and London 2012. This is different, it’s not about me, it’s for everybody involved in the School over the past 10 years and so, we dedicate this award to you! Thank you, all.” The School’s 10-year anniversary will take place on Tuesday 21 June 2022. Its vision is of a built environment industry where everyone has the skills and knowledge to deliver a sustainable future.

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Nathan Barr appointed as new managing director for Westgate.

Westgate situated in Stafford are pleased to announce the arrival of Nathan Barr as their new Managing Director. Nathan joins the business following a successful career at ODL Europe where he has driven revenue growth through market share and introduction of new products via various channels. Having established his career credentials within the manufacturing sector working both nationally and internationally over a number of years, Nathan looks to spearhead the continued growth of Westgate’s business. The move comes as part of extensive expansion plans for Westgate, which has seen significant growth through new market and product developments over the past five years. Nathan’s experience within the manufacturing sector, combined with his achievements in previous roles, strengthens Westgate’s commitment to its future aspirations, its customers, suppliers, and employees. Commenting on his appointment, Nathan said “I am excited to join Westgate at this time to build on the great work and foundations the team has put in place. With an extensive product range, new products in development, ambitious plans and a phenomenal culture we will continue on our growth journey.” Gerrard Gates, Director said “It is a very exciting time here at Westgate and with the arrival of Nathan I am confident that the business will further grow and develop. Nathans specific skills and experience when combined with his ‘can do’ approach fits nicely with culture here at Westgate and, both I and our board, look forward to the positive changes that Nathan’s arrival will bring.”

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K SYSTEMS SHORTLISTED FOR PRESTIGIOUS TALL BUILDING AWARDS

Kilwaughter Minerals brand, K Systems, has been named as a finalist on three projects at this year’s prestigious Tall Building Awards, in recognition of the company’s position as a leading system provider of External Wall Insulation (EWI). The Tall Buildings Awards intend to celebrate those that are developing unique design and engineering solutions to maximise space in city centres where demand is high, whilst creating a legacy of iconic superstructures that are transforming the UK’s built environment.  K Systems was shortlisted in the Best Tall Building Façade and Fenestration Engineering Project category for its work on the River Gardens development in London. A further two entries were shortlisted for the Best Tall Building Retrofit Project award. These were in recognition of K Systems’ role in the restoration of Cartcraigs in Glasgow and Gaywood House in Bristol.  Speaking following the shortlist announcement, David Grace, Sales Director at Kilwaughter said: “K Systems is a leading UK provider of EWI systems, and our innovative, safe and stylish solutions have been tried, tested and trusted for over 30 years. “We are very pleased to have been named as a finalist for the 2022 Tall Building Awards and appreciate receiving industry recognition as a leading player within the UK market. “I would like to congratulate all of those named on this year’s shortlist and I look forward to the upcoming awards presentation event.” The Tall Buildings Awards are set to take place in June in Central London following the Tall Buildings Conference. Kilwaughter was also recently awarded a prestigiousInsulated Render & Cladding Association (INCA) Award for best-in-class in the insulation and rendered finish refurbishment category, ranking higher than numerous UK-wide counterparts and also received a community engagement award for Stakeholder of the Year at the 2021 Social Enterprise NI Awards. In addition to K Systems, Kilwaughter brands include Kilwaughter Lime and the marketleading K Rend. To find out more about Kilwaughter and the variety of products and solutions available please visit: www.kilwaughter.com/our-brands

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Forrest Park developers back Aycliffe’s Make Your Mark awards

The developers of one of the biggest new industrial developments in the region are showing their commitment to the local community by backing an awards event. Richardson Barberry, the team behind the huge Forrest Park development at Aycliffe Business Park, has joined the growing list of high-profile names to back Aycliffe Business Park’s Make Your Mark awards, in association with Husqvarna. The glamorous awards ceremony – organised by Aycliffe Business Park Community (ABPC) – will be held at the stunning Redworth Hall Hotel on Friday, May 20. Richardson Barberry are backing the awards by sponsoring the Engineering and Manufacturing award – joining headline sponsors Husqvarna and category sponsors Gestamp, Stiller, Ebac, Business Durham, Think Kudos and Jacksons Law Firm. Barberry industrial development director and shareholder Jon Robinson said: “It’s great to see the return of the Make Your Mark awards after what has been a highly challenging couple of years for many companies. “Everyone at Richardson Barberry is delighted to be able to support such a prestigious event which celebrates some of the exceptional achievements of people and companies at Aycliffe Business Park. “Together with our joint venture partners Richardson, we are excited at the prospect of adding to the success of Aycliffe Business Park by delivering new industrial and logistics units at Forrest Park. “Situated on a 116-acre site, it will be one of the North-East’s premier business parks, stimulating economic growth by an estimated half a billion pounds in the next 10 years and creating over 3,000 jobs for the region. “We are submitting our reserved matters planning application in April 2022 for our phase one scheme comprising of c: 780,000 sq ft over eight buildings and are talking to local, national and international occupiers who have expressed interest in taking some of the 1.8 million sq ft of industrial space available at Forrest Park. “They are attracted by the fact that it is a serviced and consented site, in a first class business location on a motorway junction, with access to an excellent, skilled labour demographic. “Companies moving to Forrest Park will also benefit from becoming part of the vibrant and highly successful Aycliffe Business Park community. “We are looking forward to joining everyone at the awards and celebrating the hard work, innovation, investment and successes of those businesses that have been shortlisted.” ABPC board director Thomas Prentice, who’s business development manager at Stiller, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have Richardson Barberry on board with the Make Your Mark awards. “The Forrest Park site is a hugely exciting development for Aycliffe Business Park and it’s fantastic to see its developers not only engaging with the business park so positively, but also embracing these awards, which are so important.”

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SMT GB proudly announces return to Hillhead 

After a two-year break from exhibitions due to COVID-19, SMT GB is excited to showcase a wide range of the latest Volvo machines and service solutions at Hillhead 2022. On the SMT GB stand, visitors will have the opportunity to see a host of new Volvo excavators, displayed for the first time in Great Britain. These include the EWR130E wheeled excavator, the EW200E material handler, EC530E excavator and EC300E Hybrid excavator. The multipurpose Volvo EWR130E wheeled excavator sets a new standard for powerful machine performance in an unbeatably compact package. Ideally suited for working in tight urban spaces, its wheeled drive means it can quickly move through infrastructure projects with ease. Designed especially for waste and recycling, the all-new Volvo EW200E material handler is built on the success of the larger EW240E MH and delivers outstanding results in waste and recycling applications. The Volvo EC530E crawler excavator, launched along with the EC550E in 2020, will also be shown on the SMT GB stand. Designed for heavy-duty digging, mass excavation and large site preparation, both the EC350E and EC550E boast superb operator comfort and a new generation of electro-hydraulics. Another star of the show will be the new Volvo EC300E Hybrid crawler excavator. This machine delivers the same levels of controllability and performance as an equivalent conventional machine, but with an up to 17% potential fuel efficiency improvement, making it the environmentally respectful choice for powerful performance in built-up areas. Due to be shown for the first time at Hillhead in 2020, the Volvo EC950F crawler excavator will be working in the demonstration area directly behind the SMT GB stand. The 95 tonne EC950F is the largest Volvo excavator to date and delivers maximum productivity in heavy rock or muck shifting applications thanks to its perfect combination of power, stability and breakout force. New Volvo electric compact range A specially designed “electric village” will also be featured on the SMT GB stand, which will offer Hillhead visitors their first opportunity to see the newly expanded range of fully electric compact machines from Volvo Construction Equipment. This includes the new Volvo EC18 Electric and ECR18 Electric compact excavators and the Volvo L20 Electric compact wheeled loader. The Volvo ECR25 Electric compact excavator, which was displayed for the first time at Bauma in 2019, will also be shown on the SMT GB stand. Visitors will be able see the new electric machines working in mock real-world applications during daily demo shows on the stand at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00. Efficiency and productivity boosting solutions In addition, SMT GB will be showcasing its latest service solutions in the categories of “Efficient Sites”, “Intelligent Data” and “Flexible Maintenance and Repair”. Not only do these solutions boast the latest technologies to help boost site, project and machine efficiency and productivity, but also reduce downtime, waste and total cost of ownership for customers. The “Efficient Sites” solutions being showcased are Volvo Co-Pilot, Volvo EcoOperator training, state-of-the-art simulators and SMT Site Simulation. Having a reliable and efficient fleet of machines plays an important part in every project, but it is the performance of the operator and the efficiency boosting technology available to them that really makes the difference. This is where Volvo Co-Pilot and EcoOperator training delivered by SMT GB makes a real difference. Volvo Co-Pilot with Haul Assist provides articulated hauler operators with real-time information via a touchscreen display in the cab to improve their productivity, efficiency and safety. Using a state-of-the-art cab mounted touchscreen, Volvo Co-Pilot provides the operator with all the information they need to complete projects in less time and with more precision. Through the specially designed advanced training course provided by SMT GB, Volvo EcoOperator training teaches operators how to get the most out of their Volvo machines, while also reducing fuel consumption, emissions and wear. This is made possible thanks to the cutting-edge SMT GB machine simulators, providing operators with the ability to get hands-on with a highly accurate digital version of their machines, along with real-world feedback in a safe classroom environment to hone their skills and identify areas for improvement. The newly developed SMT GB Site Simulation solution, meanwhile, uses advanced drone technology to generate highly accurate 3D models of any site it is deployed on. This provides customers with the ability to accurately determine the current condition of a site, suggest optimal machine pairings and identify what changes will improve on-site productivity and efficiency. Actionable data at customers’ fingertips The solutions being showcased for the “Intelligent Data” area include CareTrack, ProCare, Insight Reports and MySMT. CareTrack provides customers with the ability to monitor and analyse a broad range of data on a fleet-wide basis, while SMT ProCare goes one step further to offer real-time performance data on individual machines within a fleet. Insight Reports combine the information from both CareTrack and ProCare to generate reports on fleet performance that are easy to understand and analyse. MySMT provides customers with a web browser-based portal to provide easy access to all of SMT’s intelligent data solutions, order parts and book servicing or repairs from anywhere. Maintenance made easy Lastly, the “Flexible Maintenance and Repair” solutions area will showcase the benefits of SMT GB Customer Support Agreements, as well as Volvo certified rebuilds, used parts and equipment, and the online parts portal. Recently overhauled to introduce two new levels of cover, SMT GB Customer Support Agreements provide a set of service packages to provide comprehensive machine cover and suit all customer budgets, offering customers considerable peace of mind to protect the investment made in their machinery. Thanks to the quality of refurbishment available from SMT GB’s Volvo certified rebuild programme, purchasing from new is no longer necessarily the best option available to customers. Similarly, SMT GB’s expert used equipment and parts teams provide a highly credible and cost-effective alternative to purchasing new parts and equipment. The SMT GB online parts portal provides customers with the ability to search for and order parts from anywhere 24/7 and receive free standard shipping for

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LAND & WATER STARTS PHASE TWO OF WORKS AT BLENHEIM

After completing phase one of works at the end of 2020, leading wet civil engineering firm Land & Water, is now starting phase two of a wider restoration project at Blenheim Estate. The restoration works, which are due to start this month, will see Land & Water begin the first dredge of Queen’s Pool in over 100 years. The lake was created by Sir Capability Brown around 1763 as part of his extensive re-landscaping of the World Heritage Site. Land & Water will be removing 300,000 cubic metres of silt over the course of the nine months, which is enough to fill the height of Wembley Stadium, to return the lake to its ideal depth of two metres from its current shallows of 30cm. Charlie Oakes, Project Manager at Land & Water says, “It is great to be back at Blenheim and continuing works to safeguard the future, and protect the history, of this prestigious site and its landscapes. “Queen Pool has become heavily silted which can have a detrimental impact on its ecosystem. By carrying out these dredging works, we are able to increase the depth of the lake so that it can continue supporting the flora and fauna which thrives there. “Land & Water is also proud to be using HVO fuel throughout the project which is up to 90+% net carbon neutral and biodegradable meaning that we are significantly reducing the carbon output of these works.” “The dredge is one of the most ambitious civil engineering projects undertaken here at Blenheim over the last 300 years. It is vitally important to help ensure the long-term health of the lakes, surrounding waterways and parkland and the rich biodiversity that it supports as well as mitigating the risk of environmental damage due to climate change,” said Roy Cox, Blenheim Estate’s Director. “We’re delighted to be working with the hugely experienced team from Land & Water on this landmark programme which will write another fascinating chapter in the history of the Blenheim Estate,” he added. HVO fuel is a sustainable solution being harnessed by Land & Water as it continues to show its commitment towards becoming carbon net zero by 2030 and safeguarding the future of the planet. Land & Water has also been dedicated towards its social responsibility and has been working alongside the team at Blenheim to involve the local community in the restoration project through a competition that aims to name the specialist plant being used during the works. The winning names are Winston, Clementine, Swan, Mallard, Reg Who Likes To Dredge and Fair Rosamund.

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6 Safety Tips For Maintaining An Empty Property

Your property may fall vacant for various reasons. Perhaps you’ve just relocated and are yet to rent or sell your property. Other times, you may have moved out for renovations or gone for a long holiday. Leaving your property uninhabited may expose it to numerous risks. For instance, thieves find it easy to break-in. It’s also vulnerable to vandalism, squatting, and disasters like fire, floods, wind, and hail. With that in mind, you need to safeguard your property, whether you’re leaving it vacant for a long or short period. Here are six incredible tips on maintaining your empty property: Provide Security    You may consider hiring Empty property security guards from reputable firms to maintain, safeguard, and oversee your vacant property. The guards should monitor your property full time. This protects it from vandals and squatters. In addition to offering security services, they may undertake risk evaluations and help keep your compound clean until you’re back. Aside from that, you’d want to install security cameras and alarms as a reinforcement to the guards. Install Smart Home Devices Technological advancement has made it possible to monitor your home remotely through smart devices. This helps keep your property safe and gives you peace of mind since you can see all that’s happening around your home. You may install smart home cameras that record live footage and send it to your phone directly. In case of an attempted break-in, you can notify security quickly, saving your property from vandalism. You can also consider installing a smart lighting system that lets you turn your lights on and off even when you’re away. This scares those with ill intentions as they may think you’re around.  Additionally, make a point of installing smart thermostats. These enable you to adjust your home’s temperatures according to the current weather conditions. For instance, during cold seasons, you may keep your home warmer and prevent your pipes from freezing entirely and even bursting. Use Metal Doors Metal doors provide extra security for your property. Burglars can’t break in simply because they must use special equipment to force the door open, unlike wooden doors. The noise generated in the process alerts your neighbors, who can inform the police, thus thwarting the attempted robbery. Metal doors also provide a barrier to vandalism and trespassing. And no matter how long you’re away, metal doors can’t be destroyed by pests and insects. This maintains the sound state of your doors and saves you from the costly repairs associated with dilapidated doors. Inform Your Trusted Neighbors Your neighbors are an indispensable asset when it comes to vacant property. You can speak to the ones you trust most, informing them about your intended absence. As they’re always around the home, they can constantly watch your property and report anything strange to you or the police. You can also assign someone to conduct periodic inspections to check for issues like leaking pipes and report them to you.    Purchase An Empty Property Insurance If you’re going to leave your property unoccupied for a long time, you may consider purchasing vacant property insurance. This primarily covers theft, vandalism, and natural disasters like fire outbreaks, hail, and winds.   Vacant property insurers know the risks of an empty property. If you inform them, they can make regular visits to your asset and identify any problems timely or even keep them at bay. Maintain Internal And External Cleanliness One obvious indicator of an empty property is bushy and dirty surroundings. Once thieves, vandalizers, and squatters notice that your home is increasingly unkempt, they conclude that you’re not around. Thus, they’ll go ahead and break into your property.  Therefore, you need to ensure the grass and bushes in your compound are trimmed, and the flowerbed is neatly weeded. Also, remember to remove any litter around and empty the dustbins. This gives your surroundings an attractive look and gives the impression that it’s inhabited. Don’t forget to dust your house. Even though it’s unoccupied and locked, dust still gets in. Dusting prevents any permanent stains from forming on your expensive furniture and interiors.  To make all these maintenance chores possible, you may employ a friend or neighbor to do it on your behalf.  Conclusion  Leaving your property empty for lengthy periods is risky. Therefore, you need to put appropriate measures to safeguard it from burglars, vandals, and trespassers. Remember, prevention is better than cure. It’s better to take precautions against theft and break-ins than to come to terms with huge losses.   So, consider appointing security guards, replacing wooden doors with metal ones, installing smart home devices, and purchasing empty property insurance covers. This way, you’ll keep your unoccupied property safe.

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PREMIER MODULAR IS AWARDED EUROPE’S FIRST ESG CERTIFICATION

Premier Modular, one of the UK’s leading offsite construction specialists, has been awarded Europe’s first ESG certification. Following a rigorous independent audit conducted by global testing, inspection and certification specialists SGS, Premier has been assessed and certified for its management and performance in Environmental, Social and Governance. According to David Harris, Managing Director of Premier Modular, “Our aim is to radically improve the sustainability of the built environment with our approach to construction, and to generate social value across all our building projects and operations. We are therefore delighted to be the very first company in Europe to receive the new certification developed by SGS. This is the next step in our ESG journey, and it demonstrates our serious commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability.” “This independent endorsement gives all our stakeholders – staff, customers, supply chain, and investors – complete assurance that we are evaluating our ESG performance in line with the latest best practice, and that our ESG data and analysis are both accurate and transparent.” “This has been an important initiative in helping us to advance our commitment to reducing carbon emissions within Premier and in the long-term operation of our modular buildings for both rental and permanent space. And by prioritising social value in everything we do, we have the potential to unlock a range of social, economic, and environmental benefits for the communities we work in.” Jonathan Hall, Global Head for Certification Services at SGS said, “The ESG standard developed by SGS focuses on the most important environmental, social and governance risks to a company. This enables Premier to better assess, monitor and evaluate ESG at different stages, allowing it to further reduce energy consumption across its operations, optimise material efficiencies in manufacturing, manage risk more effectively, demonstrate strong leadership in ESG, and enhance employee engagement.” “The Premier team has worked really hard to attain this European first and we would like to congratulate them on this significant achievement.” A key aspect of Premier’s ESG commitment is reducing carbon footprint and a number of new initiatives are underway. An R&D project is in progress looking at alternative materials for modular building manufacture, which have lower embodied carbon, and Premier will be launching a new range of sustainability and fabric first options for its building rental fleet this year. Premier has a zero waste to landfill policy in the manufacture of its buildings. Its modular buildings are fully re-useable, reconfigurable, relocatable, and the steel-framed structures are infinitely recyclable, meeting decarbonisation goals. Low and zero carbon technologies can also be specified to incorporate renewable energy into its buildings for both rental and permanent space. For further information, visit www.premiermodular.co.uk, call 0800 316 0888 or email info@premiermodular.co.uk.

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First residents set to move in at Meppershall development

Davidsons Homes is set to welcome the first residents into their new homes at a housing development in Meppershall. The developer is building a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes at Woodlands Rest, located off Shefford Road. Of the 145 homes being built, two are due to be occupied and 26 have sold so far off-plan. Simon Tyler, Sales Director for Davidsons Homes South Midlands, said: “The first homeowners moving in will mark an important milestone at Woodlands Rest. “Ever since we released the first homes for sale last spring, we’ve experienced incredibly high demand at the development. We’ve received interest from buyers locally as well as further afield, including buyers from the outskirts of London who are looking to relocate to a quieter village location. “We’ve also found that buyers are attracted to the development for our high quality and traditional style of build, as well as its central location with a wealth of amenities close by. “We look forward to seeing buyers settle into life at the development and to witnessing this brand-new community start to take shape.” Two new showhomes and a brand-new sales office were opened at the end of January at Woodlands Rest by Councillor John Thompson, Chairman of Meppershall Parish Council, and the Parish Clerk Alessandra Marabese. Simon added: “The recent launch of our Winchester and Barnwell showhomes gives house-hunters the perfect opportunity to get a feel for the luxurious and spacious interiors of the homes on offer here at Woodlands Rest.” There is currently a selection of three, four and five-bedroom homes available to reserve at Woodlands Rest, with prices starting from £419,995. For more information, visit davidsonshomes.co.uk.

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