The installation of a ground-breaking solar and battery system at Portsmouth International Port has reached a major milestone. The scheme, managed by Portsmouth City Council’s in-house energy services team and installed by Custom Solar, has seen 2660 solar panels installed ready for the next stage of the project. The project
In the property purchasing process, there are more people involved than just the seller and buyer. Financial institutions, building inspectors, and realtors are generally the people who help finalize the property sale. However, a person who is often overlooked in the property purchasing process is the real estate lawyer. The
When you move house, you’re understandably concerned about how you can reduce the number of your belongings that end up in a landfill. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple ways to do this when it comes to packing and moving your household items. You can work with leading moving companies
So, you want to be a construction worker? It’s not as easy as it looks. Sure, anyone can swing a hammer or carry some lumber, but there’s more to it than that. If you’re thinking of making a career out of construction, you’ll need to know your way around a
Have you recently decided to reduce some costs by learning to do things like plumbing yourself? Let’s be honest; calling the plumber for doing something you can do yourself can be somewhat of a loss. Things like unclogging the drains, sealing the pipes, or changing the fittings, are easier than
The lead contractor behind the redevelopment of Birmingham’s iconic Alexander Stadium is reflecting on the success of the project and the wide range of community benefits brought to the local area following its recent completion. McLaughlin & Harvey has detailed the outcomes of its social value programme which was implemented
Planning permission for new, 10-storey student accommodation on Talbot Street, Nottingham was granted on the 24th June 2022. The scheme, which will house 318 student beds, will replace the former Domestic and General office building located on the site. East Midlands-based engineering consultancy Howard Ward Associates (HWA) has been appointed
One of the UK’s leading joinery and interior fit-out contractors, which has posted the highest annual revenues in its history, has £60 million of secured work for the new financial year. Leicester-based EE Smith Contracts, which is celebrating its 125th birthday this year, has recorded a turnover of £61.5 million
hub South West Scotland has handed over the new Prestwick Educational Campus project to South Ayrshire Council. Based at Sherwood Road in Prestwick, the new educational campus has been developed on the site of the existing Glenburn Primary School and will accommodate the school’s current intake, as well as the
A mortgage is a loan specifically meant for property development or purchase. Refinancing a mortgage means paying off a loan and replacing it with a new one. The decision to refinance your mortgage will depend on many factors, including the loan duration, prevailing interest rates, the loan estimate, how long
The installation of a ground-breaking solar and battery system at Portsmouth International Port has reached a major milestone. The scheme, managed by Portsmouth City Council’s in-house energy services team and installed by Custom Solar, has seen 2660 solar panels installed ready for the next stage of the project. The project began in February 2022 and incorporates roof-mounted solar panels across a number of buildings, a large battery and solar canopies. The project has broken new ground for the council and in the national context. It is the first UK port to have solar canopies, and will have a mega-watt sized battery installed as part of a renewable installation. The power produced by the 2,660 solar panels will contribute around 35% of the site’s power; a significant step in Portsmouth International Port’s ambition to be the UK’s first net zero carbon port. It’s all part of an integrated approach that will also help the port offer shore power for smaller ships, without having to take extra power from the local electricity grid. When completed, the 1.2 megawatt peak system, will be the largest solar and battery installation to date across the council’s portfolio of renewable generation systems. As well as generating carbon-free power, the solar canopies will provide shade for cars waiting to board ferries; allowing them to stay cooler for longer, without having to run their engines. The battery, with a capacity of 1.5 megawatt hours (enough to run a typical home for 4 months), will capture green power that would otherwise be exported from the site, which can be used then used at the port when needed. The new battery will work in tandem with a previously announced battery storage pilot, which will balance services to the national grid and storing power during lower pricing periods. When complete, it is estimated that in peak conditions that 98% of the electricity consumed by the port will come from the solar and battery, combined. Cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment at Portsmouth City Council, Cllr Kimberly Barrett, said: “It is the council’s priority to support clean growth. This major milestone on this innovative project means that the project is on-track to begin generating clean energy later this year. When operational, it will reduce annual emissions by 239 tonnes at this busy site. “We’re committed to take positive action to tackle climate change, and this cut in emissions will boost our ambitions to to reduce carbon emissions across the city to net-zero by 2030”. Jerry Clarke, pilot and senior project manager at Portsmouth International Port added: “The port is owned by the people of Portsmouth, so we have a obligation to reduce the impact of our operations on the environment, whilst reaching the ambitions set out in our 20 year Masterplan. “Combined with other sustainability initiatives, it will help us achieve our ambition of reaching net-zero carbon by 2030, and becoming one of the UK’s first zero emission ports by 2050”. The work is the latest in a series of solar and battery projects being managed by the council’s in-house energy services team. The team procured Custom Solar after a competitive tender exercise through the council’s recently established PV and Storage framework. Gary Sucharewycz, CEO of Custom Solar, said: “We are incredibly proud of the progress that has been made on this groundbreaking project. It has been a perfect amalgamation of solar innovation and engineering ingenuity. “The project will certainly be a landmark moment for UK ports as Portsmouth International Port will be one of the first to install a solar carport canopy system. We are extremely excited to finalise and showcase the project in its entirety. “
In the property purchasing process, there are more people involved than just the seller and buyer. Financial institutions, building inspectors, and realtors are generally the people who help finalize the property sale. However, a person who is often overlooked in the property purchasing process is the real estate lawyer. The real estate lawyer plays a vital role in the successful conclusion of the property sale – even if your state doesn’t mandate their services. So, whether you’re going through the property purchasing process or you are a realtor advising your clients to get legal representation, you may need the services of Peter B Mason Real Estate Lawyer for four main reasons. 1. Protect Your Interests Hiring a real estate lawyer to facilitate the real estate transaction is the best way to ensure everything is above board and legal. Your real estate lawyer will examine the legal paperwork, act as an advisor for anything to do with the property, and serve as a mediator if there are disagreements between any of the parties involved in the property sale. Above all, your real estate lawyer will ensure that the real estate legal contracts serve your best interests and that you are protected. 2. Get Legal Advice If you have never gone through the process of buying or selling real estate, you probably won’t know what the process entails. Because legal real estate transactions and ownership can be confusing to the layman, you might have questions about how everything works, especially if you’re looking at modern million dollar beach front estates in a foreign country. By hiring a qualified real estate lawyer, you’ll have someone on hand to answer any questions you may have about the process. You’ll also have someone to guide you through all the real estate purchasing or selling steps. A real estate lawyer will also be able to bring any legal issues to your attention to make sure everything is ethical and legal. 3. Avoid Expensive Mistakes Because there is a significant amount of money changing hands when you purchase a home, you may feel tempted to forgo hiring legal representation to avoid the costs involved. However, going through the real estate purchasing or selling process yourself may result in mistakes that can be extremely costly to rectify. A real estate lawyer will ensure that all the legal documents are in order and ready to be filed by the deadlines. If you try to get your documents ready yourself, you can easily become overwhelmed and miss deadlines. If you miss deadlines, you could incur extra expenses and fees that you may not have considered – or, even worse, the transaction could fall through completely. 4. Draft a Will When you become an official homeowner, you’ll need to ensure the continuity of your estate and asset. While you may not even consider the possibility of never making your mortgage payments or living in your new home, unfortunate accidents can and do happen. Your real estate lawyer will help you draft a will or set up a trust to ensure that your assets – including your new home – are distributed as you see fit. Your real estate lawyer will also ensure that the assets named in your will are handed over to your beneficiaries promptly should you pass away.
When you move house, you’re understandably concerned about how you can reduce the number of your belongings that end up in a landfill. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple ways to do this when it comes to packing and moving your household items. You can work with leading moving companies near me at Moving Feedback and check their steps towards lesser carbon emissions and hire them to reduce carbon footprints. Keep reading to find out how to reduce your carbon footprint when relocating a house. Why is it important Reducing your carbon footprint is important for several reasons. For one, it’s good for the environment. Additionally, it can save you money on your energy bills, and it’s a great way to be more sustainable. Here are a few tips for reducing your carbon footprint when moving house – Move locally whenever possible. – Take short trips in a fuel-efficient vehicle instead of driving long distances in an SUV or truck. – Keep boxes closed tightly and shrink wrap plastic bags so that they can’t open while being transported by car or plane. – If you’re packing food in boxes, remember to pack frozen items like ice cream last so that they don’t melt before getting where they need to go! – Make sure all electronic devices are off and unplugged during transport. – Turn down the thermostat if you won’t be home while the place is being packed up. – Remember to recycle everything possible including cardboard, paper, cans, bottles, and plastics! It might seem tedious at first but over time it will become second nature. – Pack eco-friendly cleaning products and disposable plates, cups, and utensils to cut back on waste. – Rent moving equipment rather than using a big truck or van – this will make the trip easier as well as less expensive. Where should you start looking for alternative energy? If you’re looking for alternative energy sources, the best place to start is with your utility company. Many utilities offer green power programs that allow customers to support renewable energy sources. You can also look into installing solar panels or wind turbines. There are also several tax incentives and rebates available for homeowners who install renewable energy systems. For example, if you purchase an electric vehicle and use it as your primary mode of transportation, there are federal and state rebates on the purchase price. However, if you live in an apartment complex or rental house where there’s no room for installation or ownership of these items (or enough electricity), one way to reduce your carbon footprint is by investing in a low-carbon home service like HomeHero. What are your moving options? So, you might be worried about how to reduce carbon footprints on your own. Right? You can always work with green moving companies which are growing at a rapid rate due to aware customer demands. There are a few things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint when moving house: – See if you can downsize to a smaller home. This will require less energy to heat and cool, and you’ll likely have less stuff to move. – If you’re moving long-distance, try to consolidate your belongings into as few trips as possible. The more trips you make, the more emissions you’ll produce. – Ship your belongings instead of driving them. Are you ready for an alternative energy solution during relocation? When you’re planning a move, it’s important to consider your carbon footprint. One of the best ways to reduce your impact is to switch to an alternative energy solution, like solar power. Solar panels can help offset the emissions from your move, and they’ll also save you money on your energy bills in the long run. If you’re not ready for a complete switch, there are still plenty of ways to reduce your carbon footprint when moving house. Conclusion When you’re moving house, there are a few things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint. First, try to move during the off-peak season. Second, pack lightly and use reusable packing materials. Third, hire a green moving company. And fourth, donate or recycle unwanted items. By following these tips, you can help make your move a little bit more eco-friendly.
So, you want to be a construction worker? It’s not as easy as it looks. Sure, anyone can swing a hammer or carry some lumber, but there’s more to it than that. If you’re thinking of making a career out of construction, you’ll need to know your way around a job site. There are plenty of reasons why you might want to consider a career in construction. It can be rewarding work, both financially and emotionally. And with the right training and experience, you can advance quickly up the construction ladder. Experience If you’re just starting out in construction, the first thing you need to do is get some experience under your belt. The best way to do this is by working as an apprentice. An apprenticeship is a great way to learn the ropes and get paid while you’re doing it. There are many different types of apprenticeships available, so you should be able to find one that’s a good fit for you. Once you have some experience, you can start looking for entry-level jobs. These jobs will usually be in construction labour. You can expect to earn around $15 per hour when starting out in this field. With experience, you can move up to higher-paying positions such as project manager or site supervisor. It’s important to remember that experience is the key to success in the construction industry. The more experience you have, the better your chances of landing a good job and making a career out of construction. There are many different ways to get experience in the construction industry. The best way to get started is by finding an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a great way to learn the ropes and get paid while you’re doing it. There are many different types of apprenticeships available, so you should be able to find one that’s a good fit for you. Skills In addition to experience, you’ll need to have the right skills if you want to be successful in construction. Some of the most important skills you’ll need include: Being able to read and understand blueprints is an essential skill for any construction worker. If you don’t have this skill, it’s important to learn it as soon as possible. Blueprints are the roadmap for any construction project, and being able to understand them is essential for your success in this field. Another important skill for construction workers is the ability to use power tools safely. Power tools are a necessary part of the construction process, but they can also be dangerous if used improperly. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you know how to use them safely before operating them on a job site. Strong problem-solving skills are another must-have for anyone working in construction. There will inevitably be problems that arise during any construction project, and it’s up to the construction workers to solve them. If you’re not good at solving problems, you’ll likely struggle in this field. Good communication skills are also essential for construction workers. Construction is a team sport, and being able to communicate effectively with your teammates is crucial for your success. If you’re not good at communicating with others, you’ll likely find yourself struggling to get along with your co-workers. These are just some of the skills that you’ll need to be successful in construction. If you don’t have all of these skills, don’t worry – they can be learned with time and practice. The important thing is that you’re willing to learn and grow as a construction worker. Training In addition to experience and skills, you’ll also need to have the right training if you want to be successful in construction. There are many different types of training programs available, so it’s important to find one that’s a good fit for you. One option is to find a construction trade school. These schools offer programs that will teach you the basics of construction. They usually last around two years, and upon completion, you’ll have the skills and knowledge you need to start working in the field. Make sure you get the most out of being a student and take advantage of student deals offered by companies. Like Student SIM deals, for example, will let you use the internet to its full potential, as you’ll need it to look up diagrams, details in the blueprint, and more. Another option is to find an apprenticeship program. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn while you’re getting paid. They usually last around four years, and upon completion, you’ll have the skills and experience you need to start working in the field. However, it’s important to note that apprenticeship programs are very competitive, so you’ll need to make sure you have the experience and skills required to be successful. The important thing is that you find a training program that’s right for you. Not all programs are created equal, so it’s important to do your research and find one that will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in construction. No matter what route you choose, remember that training is essential for your success in construction. Without the right training, you’ll likely struggle to find a job and make a career out of this field. Network In addition to experience, skills, and training, another important thing you’ll need if you want to be successful in construction is a strong network. Construction is a very competitive field, and having a strong network of contacts can give you a significant advantage. Some ways to build your network include: Attending industry events. Industry events are a great way to meet other construction workers and learn about the latest trends in the field. Attend as many events as you can, and make sure to introduce yourself to as many people as possible. You never know who you might meet and how they could help you in your career. Joining industry organizations. There are many different industry organizations for construction workers. These
Have you recently decided to reduce some costs by learning to do things like plumbing yourself? Let’s be honest; calling the plumber for doing something you can do yourself can be somewhat of a loss. Things like unclogging the drains, sealing the pipes, or changing the fittings, are easier than you would think. Learning about the various tools you can use to do the simpler plumbing work can help you maintain your house efficiently without spending much money. Want to start somewhere? Consider investing in these plumbing tools that are must-haves in your plumbing kit. You may not need them frequently, but you’ll have them handy whenever you have a plumbing issue. Drain Cleaning Tools Although keeping drainage tools in the house may seem unnecessary initially, they can be really helpful. Investing in good quality drain cleaning tools will save you many costs later, especially when your pipes need immediate cleaning. Here are the drain cleaning tools that you must have. No matter how much you need to get these, you can save a lot of costs later on since you’ll have these handy. 1. Drain Inspection Camera The first and most important thing you need in your drainage tool kit is a drain inspection camera or a borescope. You should be able to take it deep enough, and the picture should be clear for you to inspect where the blockage is. When choosing a sewer camera, you need to have criteria based on which you’ll select the tool. Choose wisely, as the best sewer camera will feature self-leveling for stable viewing as well as 120-degree views. This will help you locate the clog effectively so that you can dissolve it. 2. Hand Auger Although this is more like a traditional version, hand augers are useful enough to break apart drain clogs that aren’t too difficult to clear. Plumbers use these circular hand-held devices to steer a cable down a drain with a hand crank and clean out the clogs. 3. Plumber’s Snake A plumber’s snake, also known as a snake machine, is a motorized version that helps to break down and clean out very stubborn and deep drain clogs. These are flexible and have enough strength to move deep into the clog and break it down. 4. Hydro Jet This high-speed water jet is very effective in blasting out light clogs in the sewer. It comes with a hose that’s designed to blast water at high pressure in the clogged line and break the clog. The dirt then comes out of another opening and is dispensed off. Wrenches There are quite a few types of wrenches to choose from. Of course, there are the basic ones, like the torque wrench and the faucet key, that almost every household has. There are other types of wrenches that you must have. Why do you need them? Investing in these can save you a lot of money in fixing plumbing fittings. 1. Internal Pipe Wrench Does the name suggest anything? Although a bit less common, plumbers use the internal pipe wrench to remove rusted nuts, bolts, and other rusted internal parts in old pipes. This helps in changing the pipes systematically, or just cleaning out and replacing the internal parts, thus saving costs. 2. Adjustable Wrench This is nothing extraordinary, just something every household should have in their toolbox. However, this is something very essential. Most of the fittings and screws in faucets and plumbing lines are hexagonal. An adjustable wrench has a hexagonal fit which helps fix these parts of the pipes using enough torque. The bigger the diameter of the wrench, the longer it will be, thus providing more torque for bigger fittings. 3. Basin Wrench Unlike any traditional wrench, a basin wrench is a T-shaped wrench whose design will allow you to use them in very confined spaces. Due to the length of this tool, it’s effortless to turn and fasten or loosen the faucet parts under the sink. There are various sizes of basin wrenches, so you can choose whichever you think fits most of your sink fixtures. 4. Pipe Wrench Pipe wrenches are the most common tools plumbers love keeping in hand. They essentially help in doing most plumbing fittings. Have you seen plumbers use one wrench to hold the pipe while rotating the fittings in the right direction? Yes, those tools. Investing in pipe wrenches can help you effectively cut off costs when you need to change pipes or fix something in the plumbing lines. Of course, you should learn to use it in conjunction properly. 5. Faucet Key A faucet key, also known as a faucet wrench, isn’t a traditional wrench. It’s an X-shaped wrench that helps to loosen and tighten all types of faucets that would be hard to open otherwise. Depending on the fittings you aim to fix, you can find various sizes of faucet keys in the market. By measuring the diameters beforehand, you can choose the one that’ll fit the sillcocks and spigots in your home well. Other Plumbing Equipment You Should Have There are other types of equipment that you must add to your plumbing toolkit if you don’t have them already. These tools won’t only help in plumbing and drainage work but will also be helpful in other cases. Knowing how they work can also help you fix things quickly. Here’s a list of these items and what their functions are. 1. PTFE Tape Polytetrafluoroethylene film tape, or PTFE tape, is mostly used to wrap around pipe threads. It seals the threads to each other securely. There are a few names for this tape- thread seal tape, Teflon tape, and plumber’s tape. There are a few types of this tape, white, yellow, red, green, copper, and silver, each serving its purpose separately. Use them for sealing hose ends, natural gas fittings, water heater pipes, welding lines, pipes for medical purposes, and other types of pipe fittings. 2. Pipe Cutters Sometimes, you need to replace pipes, whether they’re old
The lead contractor behind the redevelopment of Birmingham’s iconic Alexander Stadium is reflecting on the success of the project and the wide range of community benefits brought to the local area following its recent completion. McLaughlin & Harvey has detailed the outcomes of its social value programme which was implemented over the course of the redevelopment in a report published today (17 August 2022), including impressive local job creation figures, ethical procurement, and a range of community partnerships. A total of 370 jobs were created and sustained throughout the redevelopment of the stadium over the last two years, as well as a total of 35 apprenticeships, work placements and internships, and 756 weeks’ worth of vocational training. 58% of employment was created for those living within 30 miles of the site, and an impressive 334 members of the workforce were upskilled throughout the course of the project. 91 community and education groups and over 600 school pupils have been engaged throughout the redevelopment, and £80,000 of community investment, both financial and in-kind, was achieved. McLaughlin & Harvey recently won the Inspiring Change in the Community Project Award for their Employment & Education Academy initiative on the project, which addressed the employment and skills gap by removing inequalities and barriers in employment and education. Judges at the Inspiring Change Conference & Awards, organised by CECA, praised the contractor for their outreach to local ‘hard to reach’ community groups, which ultimately led to 48 new entrants to the industry, including 26 long-term unemployed. Ethical procurement and working with local suppliers was also key to McLaughlin & Harvey’s social value programme. 50% of project spend was with local businesses and in total the social value programme generated £21.5m of local economic value. Martin Keys, Operations Director at McLaughlin & Harvey, said: “The greatest challenge faced was ensuring the project ran to time and budget. This was achieved amidst a world health pandemic and a global shipping crisis – to name a few – thanks to the collaboration, engagement and one-team approach from all partners involved. “Alongside this excellent achievement, today’s report also highlights the real benefit we have brought to local communities here in Birmingham, both engaging with young people and hard-to-reach groups, encouraging them into work and bringing a lasting legacy to the area, which as a business, we are very proud of.” The £72.4m stadium redevelopment project was part-funded by West Midlands Combined Authority (£25m) and the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (£20m), with Birmingham City Council providing the remainder of the funding. Cllr Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Anyone who visits the venue knows what an amazing job our contractors have done on the redevelopment of the Alexander Stadium – which is now the undisputed premier athletics facility in the country. “But the community story is just as impressive. McLaughlin & Harvey told us they would be good neighbours and project partners and they backed up their words with a really impressive programme of community engagement and support for grassroots projects not only in Perry Barr, but right across the city. “They’ve set a standard for other firms working on projects for the council to meet.” Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “We invested in the stadium redevelopment because we knew that it would provide a world class sporting facility for the region and enhance our reputation on the global stage. Anyone can see the contractors have certainly delivered on that. “This project also creates a social legacy as we can see with hundreds of quality construction jobs and training opportunities created and supported through the pandemic and engagement with the community including local school children who will be inspired by their experiences for years to come.” Anita Bhalla, Interim Chair, Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) said: “After successfully completing the redevelopment of Alexander Stadium on time and on budget, this latest report highlights how McLaughlin and Harvey also managed to deliver a wide-ranging and impactful community engagement programme. “Increasingly, social value is at the heart of how we measure our GBSLEP investments like the £20 million that went into this City Council project. We recognise how critical it is that local people feel the benefits of the major developments that are happening on their doorstop. This contributes to driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth across our region and for all our communities.” The report can be viewed at https://www.mclh.co.uk/media/6076/mclh-alexander-stadium-social-impact-report.pdf
Planning permission for new, 10-storey student accommodation on Talbot Street, Nottingham was granted on the 24th June 2022. The scheme, which will house 318 student beds, will replace the former Domestic and General office building located on the site. East Midlands-based engineering consultancy Howard Ward Associates (HWA) has been appointed as civil and structural engineer on the development through repeat work with long established clients, McLaren Property. From its head office in Nottingham, HWA delivers construction engineering consultancy services across a range of sectors, including education, healthcare, emergency services, commercial and residential throughout the country. HWA has given pre purchase advice on engineering site constraints such as contamination, site levels and services. To support the planning application HWA provided a contamination preliminary risk assessment, transport assessment and travel plan, flood risk and SuDS strategy alongside civil and structural engineering design. The project provides an opportunity to regenerate an inner-city site in an area which is closely linked to Nottingham Trent University. Over the last five years, Wollaton Street, adjacent to Talbot Street, has been extensively redeveloped, providing areas which resemble an extension of the university campus. The purpose-built student accommodation provides social benefit by relieving pressure on community housing. Dan Bailey, managing director at HWA, said: “We are delighted to be working on the Talbot Street development following planning approval – refurbishing the former Domestic and General building into quality student accommodation for an area closely linked to Nottingham Trent University. “The site presents great opportunity to give a worthwhile contribution to the ongoing regeneration efforts in the inner city. We have been involved providing pre purchase due diligence on engineering matters and support through the planning phase for this student resi with McLaren Property, along with planning consultants Savills who navigated gaining the permission.” HWA will be working alongside Leonard Design, Chord Consult, Pulse Consult, and Evolve in the following phases, with the project programmed to complete for occupation in the 2025 academic year.
One of the UK’s leading joinery and interior fit-out contractors, which has posted the highest annual revenues in its history, has £60 million of secured work for the new financial year. Leicester-based EE Smith Contracts, which is celebrating its 125th birthday this year, has recorded a turnover of £61.5 million for the year to March 31, 2022. This record-breaking activity has been secured partly by working on multiple prestigious developments including the luxurious The Peninsula London hotel overlooking Hyde Park Corner and the completion of 15 super-prime apartments in Knightsbridge in London. Profits have bounced back strongly following Covid-19 and are forecast to exceed pre-pandemic levels for the year ahead. EE Smith Contracts enters the new financial year with £60 million of secured work, with significant flagship opportunities for the months ahead. The business, which employs 285 staff, has reduced carbon emissions by over 20 per cent in the last year despite the growth in activity at its sites in Leicester and London by investing in a new £125,000 extraction system. There is also continued growth in long-established apprenticeship programmes, with 35 new apprenticeships having been recruited since the outbreak of Covid-19. Neil Simpson, Finance Director at EE Smith Contracts, said the company has enjoyed record-breaking liquidity through the year, giving it a secure platform for the coming years. He said: “The annual results to March 2022 have delivered the highest annual revenue in the company’s history which is due to the hard work and unwavering commitment of our staff. “We are in advanced discussions regarding a few contracts in the high-end residential and hotel markets which remain stable despite a challenging economic backdrop. “All this is the best possible way for the business to celebrate its 125-year history which is a history built on employee training and development and investment in cutting-edge technology, and delivering best-in-class craftsmanship. “EE Smith Contracts has a long history of training youngsters and a significant number of our current employees are former apprenticeships who have stayed with us because it is a family environment. “We have established great links with London colleges and have 30 apprentices on our sites in London who are learning from among the finest craftspeople in the country. The London labour market is very dynamic and we’re building the EE Smith Contracts family environment on those sites as well to retain our apprentices and provide a pathway for their career. “Further reductions are forecast in our carbon emissions following significant investment in carbon saving technology in the last six months because this is an area which is really important to us. “Overall, after evaluating the cost of the pandemic, which we estimate cost the business £3.8 million, to reach a stage where profits are now healthier than pre-Covid is testament to the high standard of our work and the high calibre of our staff.”
hub South West Scotland has handed over the new Prestwick Educational Campus project to South Ayrshire Council. Based at Sherwood Road in Prestwick, the new educational campus has been developed on the site of the existing Glenburn Primary School and will accommodate the school’s current intake, as well as the relocation of the nearby St Ninian’s Primary School and the creation of a new Early year’s centre and nursery As the Authority’s development partner, hub South West Scotland (hub SW) managed the development and delivery of the project and worked closely with construction partner Morgan Sindall, architect BDP, independent tester Capita and principal designer and cost consultant Gardiner and Theobald. South Ayrshire Council formally announced the project in May 2019 with work beginning on site in early 2020. The new campus consists of 22 classrooms and multi purpose rooms spread over two storeys, with an Early Years centre and nursery facilities for children aged two to five. Incorporating leading sustainable methods into the project was key with the new campus running purely on electric power thanks to the installation of roof solar panels and air source heat pumps for heating. In addition to a state-of-the-art sports hall, the new Prestwick Educational Campus will feature outstanding outdoor sporting amenities, including an all-weather pitch. A new allotment garden, willow garden and sensory garden will offer students and children from the surrounding community the opportunity to learn about local nature. Councillor Stephen Ferry, South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Education said: “We’re committed to providing children and young people with the best possible start in life, and I’m delighted that pupils can now set foot into their brand new school after what I’m sure felt like a long wait for them. “Prestwick Educational Campus will provide a modern and engaging environment for learning and will ensure pupils can thrive throughout their years at school. We’re continuing to transform learning in South Ayrshire with our school build programme, and I know that both schools will benefit from the shared provision. “I’d like to extend my thanks to everyone involved in making this project a huge success, and wish all of the children, teachers and school staff good luck for the year ahead.” Michael Ross, Chief Executive of hub South West Scotland, said: “We are incredibly proud to have led the delivery of this project for South Ayrshire Council, delivering the project early – enabling the full school to decant before the end of the summer holidays – on budget, and to the highest quality standards. “This is the 14th project we have successfully delivered for South Ayrshire Council. It is this long-standing relationship that has enabled us a platform to invest in ongoing initiatives, continuous improvement and processes to support our joint agenda for excellence in project delivery which has been demonstrated and proven here. “This platform allows us to implement our unique Build Ayrshire events that upskill SMEs, facilitate our hub clubs that create a network of connected Ayrshire businesses and also reinforces our partnership with Ayrshire College where we support curriculum activities. “This project was a real team effort. A huge well done goes out to all parties involved, the local supply chain and our construction partner Morgan Sindall.” Stuart Parker, managing director of Morgan Sindall Construction’s Scotland region, said: “It’s an honour to deliver this state-of-the-art educational campus to the local community. “Our aim was to create an inspiring space where students can socialise, learn and flourish in an environment that feels special to them – we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy it. “This campus is yet another example of working collaboratively with our partners to create special places that have a positive impact, so a huge thank you to all involved.” Lindsey Mitchell, Architect Director, BDP Glasgow Studio, said: “I’m thrilled that pupils will be starting their first day at nursery or school at the new Prestwick Campus. We received such positive engagement and involvement with the pupils, parents, staff and the wider Prestwick community and I hope the buildings and open spaces we have created reflect their needs and views. “The design celebrates the identity of both of the primary schools and the shared space will help bring together each of the school communities. “We aimed to create something authentic for the community that will be inclusive, welcoming and provide a platform for contemporary learning and teaching. The buildings present a positive, community facing frontage that will provide a strong sense of arrival to all pupils, staff and visitors regardless of whether they are using the facilities, teaching or learning at the campus.” The outputs delivered as part of the Prestwick Educational Campus project are not limited to the built environment. hub South West Scotland tenders and awards projects to help drive job creation and investment in the local Ayrshire SME base. As a collective team we facilitated 14 apprenticeships filled by local young people. As part of the work experience programme, attendees supported the groundworks team with setting out, kerbing, landscaping and joinery. They were also given the opportunity to observe key milestone activity on site including cement pours and completion of steel work. hub SW tendered the project competitively to maximise local economic output which saw two jobs created and also saw a graduate quantity surveyor and graduate QHSE manager hired to work on the project. hub SW has held multiple workshops with local SMEs and ensured that 80% of packages were tendered by territory supply chain. This project has awarded £9m of works packages to subcontractors within the hub SW territory, included within that is £3.7m of spend with subcontractors in Ayrshire and £3m of that with South Ayrshire Council based businesses.
A mortgage is a loan specifically meant for property development or purchase. Refinancing a mortgage means paying off a loan and replacing it with a new one. The decision to refinance your mortgage will depend on many factors, including the loan duration, prevailing interest rates, the loan estimate, how long you plan to live in the property, e.t.c. It is difficult to know whether refinancing a mortgage is a good idea as it will ultimately come down to the reasons for financing. The following are situations when refinancing a mortgage might be worth it: To Secure A Lower Interest Rate An excellent reason to refinance a mortgage is to get a lower interest rate, which is a good idea when you consider you will be paying the loan for decades. You should particularly refinance your mortgage when market interest rates drop after an announcement by the Federal Reserve. Most experts say you should refinance your mortgage if you can reduce it by 2%. You should hence understand your APR and visit loandepot.com for the best mortgage rates. It helps to have an excellent credit score when refinancing your mortgage to get the best interest rates. Reducing your interest rate will not only save you money but will increase the rate of equity buildup in your property. To Consolidate Debt Many people are drowning in debt and will refinance their mortgage to consolidate their debt. Debt consolidation is one of the main strategies to reduce your debts. Though it does not erase your debts, it makes it easier for you to pay them. Replacing high-interest debt with a low-interest mortgage is a good idea and reduces the amount you have to pay. However, it requires financial responsibility, and you should only do it if you are sure you will not spend the money once the refinancing frees you from debt. To Access Your Home’s Equity Homeowners will often access the equity in their homes to cover significant expenses like paying for life insurance, college education, or renovating their homes. They will justify the additional debt, for example, to remodel as it will increase the property’s value. The interest on the new loan may also be lower than the interest on the previous mortgage, which helps save money. Cash refinancing is especially popular among modern homeowners. You can access your home’s equity through a cash-out refinance if you will have at least 20% equity after completing the transaction. Cash refinancing rates are often higher than rate-and-term refinance rates, but it is still one of the cheapest ways to borrow money. To Shorten The Loan’s Term When interest rates drop, you can refinance your mortgage, not to get lower interest rates but to shorten the loan’s duration. Even though the interest rate and monthly payments might rise, for example, when refinancing a 20-year mortgage to a 10-year mortgage, you will pay less interest over time. The amount you save on a shorter loan term due to fewer interest payments will be particularly beneficial if you do not include the mortgage interest deduction on your tax return. To Change An Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) to A Fixed-Rate Mortgage (FRM) ARMs typically offer lower interest rates than FRMs in the beginning. However, with time as interest rates rise, a fixed-rate mortgage may become more appealing than an adjustable-rate mortgage. You can refinance your mortgage to take advantage of the lower interest rates in the FRM. Conversely, if prevailing interest rates fall, you can switch from an FRM to an ARM to take advantage of the opportunity by refinancing your mortgage. Refinancing your mortgage is worth it if it shortens the duration of your loan, gives you a lower interest rate, helps consolidate your debt, builds up your home equity, and reduces your monthly payments. However, it would be best if you were financially prudent when refinancing your mortgage. Otherwise, you will be in a worse financial situation than before the refinancing.