bdc magazine

Headingly Stadium ready for key refurbishments

The unique design of a new double-faced sports stand that works seamlessly for both Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the rugby league Super League club Leeds Rhinos posed a unique set of challenges for ironmongers Em-B and architects DLA in Leeds. Security, public safety, and access control were all key

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7 Things To Know About A Tourniquet Kit

A tourniquet is an essential gear used to stop bleeding in an extremity. A tourniquet kit also comes with an emergency bandage or pressure dressing and (optional) hemostatic agent. These kits are quick and simple to use and are designed for individuals without any medical training.  The most common construction

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New laboratories to spur growth in energy security solutions

Nuclear AMRC Midlands is set to lead dynamic supply chain developments in high value UK manufacturing Work on a transformative £15m nuclear research facility in Infinity Park Derby (IPD) is now underway, which will advance manufacturing capabilities in sustainable energy using pioneering technologies. The 46,728 sq. ft research centre, Nuclear

Read More »

Buro Happold acquires laboratory planning and design specialists Abell Nepp to broaden science-focused service offer 

Global engineering consultancy Buro Happold has announced its acquisition of London-based Abell Nepp, specialists in laboratory planning and design in the science and higher education sectors.   Buro Happold has already built a strong working relationship with directors Chris Abell and Bruce Nepp over the past two decades, both prior to

Read More »

Loose Moissanite Stone – the Ultimate Save Option

Creating a unique piece of jewelry is now easy using moissanite loose stone. Most importantly, moissanite comes from ethically acceptable sources. Therefore, loose moissanite gems are a great option over diamonds on such grounds. Typical cushion-cut moissanite loose stones have exceptional cuts. Their sparkle and brilliance are comparable to that

Read More »

Revealed: the UK cities where builders are most in-demand

Brits search for local builders on Google 162,238 times a month and now new research has revealed where they are most in-demand.  The study, conducted by IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s largest supplier of specialist ironmongery, analysed search data from across the nation..  Exeter is the biggest hotspot, with 1,702 monthly searches

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WORK STARTS TRANSFORMING LANDMARK LEEDS CITY CENTRE BUILDING

Work has started on the transformation of a landmark building, Fairfax House, in Leeds city centre’s Arena Quarter, into a major new residential development consisting of 168 apartments. Fairfax House, on the corner of Merrion Street and Wade Lane, is being developed by Leeds based property company YPP and has

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Major digital construction event showcases North East’s low-carbon future

BUSINESS leaders from across the region’s construction industry are descending on Sunderland this month to build the foundations for a greener future. Reducing emissions through digitalisation is a hot topic for the built environment to enable it to achieve ambitious targets by 2030, in line with Government policies. Digital technologies

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Latest Issue
Issue 335 : Dec 2025

bdc magazine

Headingly Stadium ready for key refurbishments

The unique design of a new double-faced sports stand that works seamlessly for both Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the rugby league Super League club Leeds Rhinos posed a unique set of challenges for ironmongers Em-B and architects DLA in Leeds. Security, public safety, and access control were all key considerations throughout, all on a project specced to the highest standards of design and finish of the hospitality industry. The unique concept of a double-sided, jointly owned stand posed double the amount of challenges for Em-B who were appointed following a successful project on Headingley’s East Stand 15 years ago. Two clients, two architects, two designers with completely different needs to deal with, plus the demands of different door suppliers to coordinate. Em-B was tasked with coordinating all these different elements, acting as technical consultant for door hardware and access control throughout, checking compliance across the piece and bringing the project together. The Emerald Headingly Stadium is home to both the Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club and Yorkshire County Cricket Club, both of whom had very differing needs and requirements for the project in terms of security, accessibility, and aesthetics. Em-B worked on both sides of the stand including boxes, changing rooms, hospitality areas and concourses: a complex brief. The owners, Caddick Group, brought in Em-B as the result of previous successful projects, bringing them in at a very early stage of the process to consult on security and access control. The project had been planned by architects DLA for six years. The spec, especially for the hospitality areas, was exceptionally high. The client wanted the directors’ suite to have the finish of a high-end boutique hotel rather than a sports stadium, combined with high levels of security for corporate and players’ entrances. “Em-B worked closely with us to manage all of the hardware requirements for the complex Headingley stand project. We have worked with Em-B in the past and knew we could rely on them to deliver the outcomes we wanted.” said Chris Wilson, of client Caddick Construction. The project was a complex one with different requirements from the cricket and rugby clubs  – from high security access control to high-end hospitality areas across both sides of the stand. Em-B coordinated two architects, two designers, steel door and shutter manufacturers to deliver an end product that looks great, works seamlessly and is totally compliant with all the regs.” Em-B is a thriving, well-established architectural ironmongery practice and supplier of door solutions based in Leeds established in 1998. The firm regularly win awards for its architectural ironmongery schemes on some of the UK’s most prestigious projects, working for household name architects and clients. Em-B’s success is built on working as a true partner within the construction process from drawing board to installed product and beyond.

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7 Things To Know About A Tourniquet Kit

A tourniquet is an essential gear used to stop bleeding in an extremity. A tourniquet kit also comes with an emergency bandage or pressure dressing and (optional) hemostatic agent. These kits are quick and simple to use and are designed for individuals without any medical training.  The most common construction injuries used for these kits include gunshot wounds, hunting accidents, knife cuts, and on-the-job injuries.  Below are seven things to know about a tourniquet kit: Tourniquet Kits Come In Different Sizes First, tourniquets come in different sizes. Some, such as the Special Ops Tactical Tourniquet (SOF-T), are designed on large appendages. Others, such as the Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT), are made to handle small limbs. Some tourniquets come in one size and can be adjusted to fit all-sized limbs. On the other hand, some tourniquets are designed for infants (the Wymedi Infant TK4L). You can visit https://www.sammedical.com or other medical stores to get any tourniquet kit, regardless of the size. A Tourniquet Kit Can Provide Instant Stopping Of Bleeding A tourniquet kit can stop bleeding quickly and effectively, which is extremely important when someone needs emergency medical attention. Whether you’re clearing debris and sudden injuries on the job site, or you need to stop blood loss in a car accident, a tourniquet kit will do the trick. You might think this sounds great, but how quickly can a tourniquet work? Like any other piece of equipment that saves lives, the amount of time it takes for the kit to work will vary based on the situation. However, experts say that using a tourniquet can help slow down arterial bleeding from minutes to seconds. Tourniquet Kits Are Designed To Be Used By People Who Have No Medical Training It’s important to remember that tourniquet kits are intended to be used by people with no medical training. Anyone—regardless of whether they know how to perform a tracheotomy or set a bone—can use the kit to save their own life or the life of someone else in need. A tourniquet is an easy-to-use device that prevents hemorrhaging from a severed limb. It also prevents excessive blood loss from wounds like deep gashes and gunshot wounds. In some cases, it can also cut off blood supply to a limb before amputation. All Tourniquet Kits Require The Same Basic Steps Once you’ve found an appropriate tourniquet kit, you’re ready to apply for it. Here’s what you do: Wrap the tourniquet as tightly as possible around the limb above the wound. Tie the ends of the tourniquet together securely, and cinch down until bleeding stops. Tie a knot in place, or secure with provided clips/clamps. Do not loosen or remove it unless instructed by medical personnel. Seek medical attention immediately! These steps are essentially universal for any tourniquet kit. However, you’ll need to be able to apply its use before using one for either yourself or another person. Different Tourniquets Work Better On Different Body Parts There are several types of tourniquets, as previously mentioned. Each works better on specific body parts in case of construction injuries. The combat application tourniquet (CAT) is great because it’s so simple. There’s no windlass, and you don’t have to do anything fancy with your hands. So, it’s a good option for shoulders, thighs, or calves. However, applying to the upper arms or lower legs can be challenging, where there isn’t much room for your hands. A cravat tourniquet works best on arms and legs because of its flexibility—you can tie it how you like and adjust it for comfort. You loop the cravat around the limb, tighten it by twisting the two ends together (or using something like a stick), then secure it by tying off around one end so that it doesn’t unwind. Tourniquets Can Only Be Left On For A Certain Amount Of Time Before Requiring A Check If you’ve tightened a tourniquet properly, it’s important to note that it cannot remain in place indefinitely. Although the amount of time a tourniquet can be left on safely depends on the person and the type of tourniquet used, all should be checked at least every 30 minutes.  If blood is seeping through the bandage, make sure that you tighten it again until the bleeding stops. However, if there are signs that the tourniquet is cutting off circulation (for example, if your skin begins looking blue or gray), loosen it immediately so that blood can flow again. Tourniquets Can Cause Damage To The Limb If Misused If you’re going to apply a tourniquet in an emergency, it’s vital that you do it correctly and that the venous blood flow is cut off completely. Even after the bleeding has stopped, it’s important to remember that tourniquets are only meant to be temporary. They should not be left in place for longer than two hours. If they are, the patient can lose their limb or die of sepsis. Conclusion The bottom line is an everyday-carry tourniquet kit can help you stay prepared for a potentially dangerous construction situation. However, you shouldn’t just grab a random kit and toss it in your bag without understanding its features and how to use it correctly.  To get the most out of this equipment, do your research!

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A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO BOOKING VACATION HOMES IN SEA ISLE CITY, NJ     

Hundreds of thousands of people visit Sea Isle City every year, making it one of the most spectacular and popular tourist destinations in New Jersey. The best thing about touring this fantastic city is that there are attractions that appeal to people of all ages and travel tastes. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, museums, and festivals. Plus, it can be a fantastic base for various day trips across New Jersey.  Unsurprisingly, Sea Isle City rentals have skyrocketed in recent years, as most folks prefer renting fabulous beachfront vacation homes, spectacular accommodations in town, and gorgeous homes by the bay to explore the city at leisure. This way, tourists can stay as long as they want and see everything they wish to at a comfortable pace. Therefore, tourists can rent stunning local homes since most of the homeowners in Sea Isle city list their second properties as vacation rentals. Folks residing in nearby or faraway states planning a trip to Sea Isle City might want to know about vacation homes here. The region is frequently visited by travelers from New York City and Philadelphia who often book such accommodation. The ensuing points highlight the most crucial aspects of renting these fabulous homes, helping first-time visitors understand how amazing they can be. But first, What is a vacation home? Before booking a rental home for your vacation to Sea Isle City, understand what such a home means. Typically, a vacation home is one that locals in your travel destination offer on rent to tourists visiting the area on holiday. It can be an apartment, a condo, an independent unit, or a beachfront home with spectacular sea views. Furthermore, as the name suggests, a vacation home in Sea Isle and other New Jersey cities is your home away from home. In short, it offers all the essential services and comforts you enjoy in your own home. For instance, many city homes come equipped with functional kitchens, a fireplace, private pools, parking, etc. Depending on your convenience, budget, and other requirements, you can pick any one of these. However, if you prefer mountain adventures, Moonlight Basin Big Sky in Montana offers luxurious amenities of a vacation home, along with the serenity and natural beauty of a mountain landscape. Key things to know when renting one Sea Isle City population barely exceeds two thousand at any given time, with most crowds being made up of tourists. The number can go upto forty thousand or more during the summers, its peak visiting time. But in the off-season, it can be a relatively less-crowded place to explore if you visit. You can attend the famous Sara The Sea Turtle Festival, visit Gillian’s Wonderland Pier amusement park in nearby Ocean City amusement park, explore John F. Kennedy Boulevard, or walk along the fantastic promenade that stretches for approximately a mile and a half. Even the vacation homes will come cheaper at this time, ensuring you enjoy a holiday that does not burden your financial situation. Here are some specific things to note when looking for a suitable vacation home in Sea Isle City: Finding a reliable rental company It is pivotal to find a dependable company to book the most stunning homes when it comes to Sea Isle City rentals. Look for professionals who have at least a decade of experience, if not more, offering a sea of spectacular homes in the area. Check their reviews, read customer testimonials, find what kinds of owners they deal with, and make an informed decision at the end. Ideally, you should consider local companies that offer the most gorgeous Sea Isle City homes at affordable prices, enabling you to enjoy a budget-friendly trip. You should be able to book beautiful homes for any number of travelers at short notice. So, keep these critical points in mind and find a reputable company to help you find your dream vacation home. It can make an incomparable difference to your travel experience, making your visit more memorable and enjoyable.

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New laboratories to spur growth in energy security solutions

Nuclear AMRC Midlands is set to lead dynamic supply chain developments in high value UK manufacturing Work on a transformative £15m nuclear research facility in Infinity Park Derby (IPD) is now underway, which will advance manufacturing capabilities in sustainable energy using pioneering technologies. The 46,728 sq. ft research centre, Nuclear AMRC Midlands, scheduled for completion by early 2023, next to Rolls-Royce and within 20 minutes’ drive of global manufacturers Toyota, Alstom and JCB, is preparing to support companies of all sizes to join carbon neutral supply chains ahead of the global race to achieve net zero by 2050. With energy prices now at record levels, Nuclear AMRC Midlands will help to guide the manufacturing industry towards critical energy transitions to facilitate growth in a carbon neutral economy. Development of the new Nuclear AMRC facility follows a successful pilot programme at Infinity Park’s Connect iHub, joined by the University of Derby, now home to fifteen engineers and support staff. The new research site will support 35 collaborative research and development projects, including high value sectors such as aerospace, automotive and rail within the first five years. Professor Warren Manning, Provost – Innovation and Research at the University of Derby, said: “Co-locating the Institute of Innovation in Sustainable Engineering with the Nuclear AMRC will enable us to share resources and expertise and open up new opportunities for our academics to support whole business sectors to become greener, more efficient, more competitive and ultimately help drive the recovery and future prosperity of our city and region.” The Government-backed IPD collaboration, with the University of Derby, Derby City Council, Wilson Bowden, Peveril Securities, Harpur Crewe Estate and Rolls-Royce, with over £9m from D2N2, will accelerate technological innovations uniting skills, markets, and demand with clean energy. Andrew Storer, CEO, Nuclear AMRC said: “As the first High Value Manufacturing Catapult facility in the East Midlands, we will continue to work closely with local industry, academic and government partners to deliver sustainable growth for decades to come. The coming years will see increasing investment into clean energy and low-carbon technologies, and the region is well placed to capitalise on the opportunity thanks to its wealth of experience, innovation and engineering expertise. We have already helped dozens of Midlands-based manufacturers to develop their capabilities for the nuclear sector and want to work with even more to support their ambitions across other growing low-carbon sectors.” Mark Bielby, of March Developments, development managers for IPD LLP said: “Nuclear AMRC is a beacon of excellence and its involvement at Infinity Park Derby is projected to add £71m to the local economy over five years. The shift to carbon neutral technologies is now an obvious priority for industry and with the help of our construction partner Stepnell we will deliver a sustainably designed building, which will lead by example.”

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Buro Happold acquires laboratory planning and design specialists Abell Nepp to broaden science-focused service offer 

Global engineering consultancy Buro Happold has announced its acquisition of London-based Abell Nepp, specialists in laboratory planning and design in the science and higher education sectors.   Buro Happold has already built a strong working relationship with directors Chris Abell and Bruce Nepp over the past two decades, both prior to and following the founding of Abell Nepp in 2009. The two firms have collaborated on various projects including Imperial College London’s Michael Uren Biomedical Engineering Hub and the London Institute of Medical Sciences for the Medical Research Council. Building on this foundation, the two firms have taken the natural next step to combine practices.  Abell Nepp boasts a wide-ranging knowledge of the science, research and technology sector. It has worked on a range of campus, building, and laboratory planning projects covering biomedical, biopharma, engineering and forensic science. The integration of Abell Nepp will strengthen client-consultant teams, ensuring Buro Happold can provide a seamless offer to clients that includes design alongside integrated engineering services for its growing sectors.  Buro Happold and Abell Nepp will combine abilities to deliver world class, innovative spaces that provide the optimal environment for scientists, clinical specialists and technology engineers to solve current and future real-world challenges.   Chris Abell, director of Abell Nepp, says: “We’ve built a close relationship with Buro Happold over the past 20 years, so it was a logical move to unite our two likeminded practices. By combining our engineering and deep sector expertise we can leverage the wider capability set of the firm to offer a new level of integration and creativity to our client base.”  “As a specialist consultancy embedded within Buro Happold, we will continue to provide science-focused services to clients and architects as well as other engineers while expanding resources to improve the integration of laboratory design and technical services. We are enthusiastic about the new collaboration and the resulting creativity and synergy from our combined expertise,” adds Bruce Nepp, director of Abell Nepp.  “We’re thrilled a company as highly regarded in the sector as Abell Nepp has joined the growing Buro Happold portfolio,” says James Bruce, chief executive officer at Buro Happold. “There is increasing interest for engineering-led design teams in the Healthcare, Science and Technology sector, so having the ability to offer consulting services for laboratory planning and design is an exciting next step.   “Expanding our collective consultancy capabilities for existing and new clients both nationally and internationally forms a major part of Buro Happold’s vision for sustainable growth over the coming years.”  CEO James Bruce unveiled ambitious plans in early 2021 to see the business double from 2,000 to 4,000 employees in six years through acquisitions, joint ventures and partnerships in key regions across the globe. Since then, Buro Happold has acquired three other firms including leading acoustics and AV consultancy Vanguardia Limited and its subsidiary Crowd Dynamics International, alongside US sustainability consulting firm Paladino and Company and higher education consultancy firm brightspot strategy.  The acquisition of Abell Nepp follows the appointment of John Swift last month as the Global Sector Lead for Healthcare, Science and Technology.  

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MKDP appoints Activate, Workman, to seek development partner for Milton Keynes market opportunity

Ahead of a full tender process, expected to take place this summer, MKDP has appointed Activate – Workman Placemaking to lead the search for a development partner to help transform this centrally-located commercial space, into a vibrant, future-proof destination. Currently covering 3,446m2 of Grade A retail space, the scheme contains a strong core of 100 existing outdoor commercial units. Milton Keynes Development Partnership (MKDP) has announced its intention to seek an investment, development, and operational partner to facilitate the development of Milton Keynes Open Market, a centrally located, prime commercial space. MKDP has appointed Activate, Workman’s in-house placemaking team, to assess initial interest in this scheme. As the landowner, MKDP is seeking a partner to help transform Milton Keynes Open Market into a destination retail, leisure, and food and beverage scheme which will be future-proofed against market changes by providing a dynamic, modern, customer experience to local residents, and visitors, whilst retaining the market’s core values and appeal. MKDP is keen to work with partners with broad experience in the retail destination sector, and remain open to new ideas, and innovative concepts for the space. Tracey Aldworth, MKDP’s Managing Director said: “MKDP is seeking comments, and enquiries, from partners keen to enter into a long-term agreement and is open to partnering with a singular institution, or a consortium. We are also seeking the views of potential partners to determine the best-suited contractual vehicle for the development of this site.” Esther Worboys, Placemaking Manager for Activate, said: “Milton Keynes Market is an essential element of Milton Keynes’ civic fabric, and retail offer. The market is centrally located on Midsummer Boulevard and immediately adjacent to the centre:mk shopping centre which attracts 23.4mn visitors per year. We are keen to find a partner who will work with MKDP on both operating the market as it is in the short-term, but also developing it in the medium to long-term into a destination for local residents and visitors.” For more information, visit www.mkdp.org.uk or email activate@workman.co.uk Responses must be received by May 6th, 2022.

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Loose Moissanite Stone – the Ultimate Save Option

Creating a unique piece of jewelry is now easy using moissanite loose stone. Most importantly, moissanite comes from ethically acceptable sources. Therefore, loose moissanite gems are a great option over diamonds on such grounds. Typical cushion-cut moissanite loose stones have exceptional cuts. Their sparkle and brilliance are comparable to that of diamonds. The D-E-F (colorless) colors loose stone moissanite also resembles a blemish-free diamond. In addition, it has a dazzling sparkle due to its almost-perfect cut. Again, you can find custom moissanite-cut stones in different sizes and shapes. If you choose moissanite over diamonds, you get much more value for money. Most importantly, it is an environmentally friendly choice and ethical. The Cost-Benefit of Loose Stones over Set Stones Loose stones are precious or semi-precious gems that are not set in jewelry pieces. Consumers use them as an investment. However, some people obtain this version of gemstones in bulk, which affords them some good discount. Later on, they can set the loose stones into jewelry pieces and sell them at a profit. Buying colorless loose moissanite for your engagement ring will save you good money. However, several factors determine the final cost of your ring. One of the considerations to make is buying a loose stone. That way, you can easily come up with a bespoke ring. In addition, it will cost you less unlike if you were buying a premade ring.  Why buy loose Moissanite stones? The main objective of investing in loose moissanite stone is to help you save on your jewelry purchase. Therefore, there is a big cost difference between a loose stone and a set one. This is the best route to go if you are working with a small budget. Most importantly, you will have the say in how you want to set your jewelry piece. To get the best out of loose moissanite, experts can help you cut it to your preferred dimension. That way, you can set your loose moissanite in a specific frame of your choice. Do not shy away from picking a loose stone for your jewelry. With the help of a jewelry expert, you will get the perfect jewelry for your use. Jewelry Pieces to attach your loose Moissanite Stone You can use your loose moissanite stone for a bracelet, engagement ring, bridal set or wedding ring. In addition, this option gives you control over your jewelry because it is customer-centric. They also come in various colors, which gives you the freedom to pick what you want. Loose moissanite stones also come in different shapes. These include heart shapes, emerald, oval and round brilliant among others. All you need is to pick the right setting to brag about your new jewelry. This option is perfect for unique presents for those who have all they need. You can also give a loose moissanite stone to someone you love. That way, they can take it to the jewelry store and get a jewelry set of their choice. This is a great gift idea that will bring a great experience to the end-user. Benefits of Moissanite stones Moissanite is lab-grown. Therefore, it presents you with many options to pick the loose stones you want. Here is what you should expect buying loose Moissanite: Loose moissanite presents a unique idea for a gift. You will not find many people with the same thought. Therefore, it is a special thing to do for your loved one. The possibility of personalizing your jewelry piece is a great advantage to consider. Moissanite is a hard and durable stone that will last forever You can easily clean and maintain your moissanite stone, unlike other gemstones. All you need is a soft cloth, warm water and soap. A loose moissanite stone will fit anything. You can pass it on to future generations. Final Thoughts If you browse through the available moissanite rings and have not found one that you like, you can choose loose moissanite stones. That way, you can come up with a custom option uniquely designed for your use. With the help of an expert, you can get your ring done perfectly and at a low cost. Instead of buying a pre-set moissanite jewelry piece, choose a loose moissanite stone for a different experience.

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Revealed: the UK cities where builders are most in-demand

Brits search for local builders on Google 162,238 times a month and now new research has revealed where they are most in-demand.  The study, conducted by IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s largest supplier of specialist ironmongery, analysed search data from across the nation..  Exeter is the biggest hotspot, with 1,702 monthly searches for local builders, on average. 1.       Exeter – 1,702 monthly searches (14 per 1,000 people) 2.       Bath – 1,277 (13) 3.       Bedford – 1,053 (11) 4.       Preston – 1,078 (11) 5.       York – 1,740 (11) The most in-demand trades across the UK are:  The people of Bath are most likely to seek the services of a tradesperson, with 103 monthly Google searches per 1,000 residents – the highest rate in the UK. The Somerset city is followed by Preston (102) and Bedford (88).  However, this varies by trade, with Exeter being the most lucrative city for many workers.  Dominick Sandford, Managing Director at IronmongeryDirect, said: “Tradespeople are incredibly valued members of communities all over the UK, but it’s interesting to see exactly where their skills are most sought-after at the moment.  “For people looking to enter a trade or set up their own business, data like this could be really useful when choosing a location to establish yourself, as it’s a helpful indicator of potential demand for your services.”  To see the top five locations where each trade is most in-demand, visit: https://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/blog/the-uk-cities-where-each-trade-is-most-in-demand   

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WORK STARTS TRANSFORMING LANDMARK LEEDS CITY CENTRE BUILDING

Work has started on the transformation of a landmark building, Fairfax House, in Leeds city centre’s Arena Quarter, into a major new residential development consisting of 168 apartments. Fairfax House, on the corner of Merrion Street and Wade Lane, is being developed by Leeds based property company YPP and has been designed by Brewster Bye Architects. The main seven-storey office building, which was built in the 1960s, is being transformed into 154 studio and one-bedroom apartments, which already had permitted development approval. In addition, Brewster Bye secured planning permission earlier in the year for a two-storey rooftop extension that will comprise of 14, one, two and three bedroom apartments, and will replace an existing rooftop plant structure. Amenity space for residents will also be incorporated into the scheme. Colbre Projects Ltd has been appointed as principal contractor and work is due to complete in August 2023. The development will then be managed by YPP Lettings and become part of the Live Oasis brand which offers high quality rental apartments across numerous purpose-built developments throughout Leeds and beyond. A spokesperson from YPP said: “Securing planning permission and then immediately starting work on the transformation of this iconic Leeds building, is a fantastic position to be in. “The scheme benefits from having both Leeds Arena and the city’s main shopping and leisure areas on its doorstep. It’s also in a part of the city that is currently benefitting from a huge amount of new development, as well as numerous new and completed tall building projects, which all enhances the vibrancy of the area and will make it a fantastic place to live.” Andrew Chapman, associate director at Brewster Bye Architects, said: “Fairfax House is a very distinctive Leeds building in a prominent city centre location, but it was no longer fit for purpose and looked dated in this fast-evolving part of the city. “As part of the development’s design, we’ve made major improvements to enhance the building’s appearance which will include partial glazing and recladding, and a smart new welcoming feature entrance will be created. This will be complemented by a generous outdoor and indoor amenity space for residents to enjoy across the ground and upper ground floors, that will offer landscaped seating areas and various other communal spaces. “Once complete, there’s no doubt it will be a sought-after place to live in one of the city’s most exciting areas.” This is YPP’s latest development in the city’s Arena and Northern Quarters. The company is also behind Havana Residence, Q1, Belgrave & Warwick and Commerce House, which is currently under construction.

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Major digital construction event showcases North East’s low-carbon future

BUSINESS leaders from across the region’s construction industry are descending on Sunderland this month to build the foundations for a greener future. Reducing emissions through digitalisation is a hot topic for the built environment to enable it to achieve ambitious targets by 2030, in line with Government policies. Digital technologies are regarded by many as providing significant opportunities for construction to reduce waste, curb errors and slash the environmental impact of build across the entire value chain. Taking place on the morning of Wednesday, April 27, the “Digital Construction – Accelerating to Net Zero” event will be hosted by the International Centre for Connected Construction (IC3) and Sunderland City Council, with up to 100 businesses expected to attend the in-person event at the newly-opened state-of-the-art City Hall, at Riverside Sunderland. The event forms part of a series of advanced, green and smart events culminating in Expo Sunderland 2024, which will welcome tens of thousands of local and national visitors to the most important regeneration and net zero future living event of its kind in the UK. Sunderland will become a shining example of what greener, smarter and integrated living and working can be, showcasing the city’s innovative and transformational regeneration projects, as well as unveiling the development of thousands of carbon-neutral smart homes in summer 2024. The networking conference will include keynote speeches from Tom Harrison, chair, and Dr Kay Rogage, senior lecturer, Digital Living, from the International Centre for Connected Construction (IC3); Billy D’Arcy, CEO of the 5G telecommunications experts, BAI Communications; Peter McIntyre, executive director of city development at Sunderland City Council; and Scott Bibby, managing director of CORE HAUS. Also joining the event will be Patrick Melia, chief executive of Sunderland City Council, who said: “The Digital Construction conference will bring the region’s construction businesses to City Hall and together, help to develop the Net Zero strategy to ensure the region remains at the forefront of innovation within the global construction industry.” The event will help local and regional construction companies to understand and embrace digital technologies by showcasing some of the innovative strategies and methods that are currently being adopted worldwide, helping them to better prepare for stringent new environmental build legislation and helping them stay ahead of the Net Zero curve and in line with current consumer demands. The event is free to attend for relevant industry professionals, strictly on a first-come, first-served basis, with breakfast and lunch included. To find out more and to request a ticket, visit: https://bit.ly/35xbGWU

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