Glasgow Queen Street Station and the University of Strathclyde Learning and Teaching Building, both designed by BDP’s Glasgow studio, have been shortlisted in separate categories of this year’s Scottish Design Awards. The transformation of Scotland’s third-busiest rail hub from a run-down collection of outdated extensions into a soaring contemporary concourse
DIGITAL PLATFORM provider MiProject Solutions believes it has the key to the pressing data challenge facing the UK construction industry. Time and again, reporting mechanisms are shown to be a significant contributing factor to the success of contractors – from identifying risks, to being appointed to frameworks and demonstrating clear KPI
Construction has begun on an 180,121 sq ft unit at Worcester Six Business Park for one of the UK’s leading dedicated flooring distribution companies. Developer Stoford is delivering a bespoke unit for Worcestershire-based Alliance Flooring Distribution, a subsidiary of Victoria PLC, which offers a UK wide storage, cutting and distribution
COMPLETE construction partner Stepnell has celebrated the achievements of six young people, who have successfully completed a ‘Get into Construction’ programme run by The Prince’s Trust. Working together with The Prince’s Trust and in collaboration with GLP Training, and with the support of supply chain partners VD Interiors and Phase9
More than half of SME builders feel unprepared for imminent changes in building regulations to improve energy efficiency, claims the Federation of Master Builders, FMB. New rules on ventilation, conservation of fuel and power, overheating and infrastructure for charging electric vehicles come into force on the 15th of June. FMB
Former England and World Cup footballer Trevor Steven is a special guest at this year’s Digital Construction Week event in May, talking about the role that sport and construction technology can play in improving mental health in the sector. Trevor is speaking at a presentation at 3pm on 18 May,
Glasgow Queen Street Station and the University of Strathclyde Learning and Teaching Building, both designed by BDP’s Glasgow studio, have been shortlisted in separate categories of this year’s Scottish Design Awards. The transformation of Scotland’s third-busiest rail hub from a run-down collection of outdated extensions into a soaring contemporary concourse that celebrates the station’s Victorian heritage, has been nominated in the ‘Public Building’ category, while the refurbishment of two existing buildings to form new teaching spaces, lecture theatre, Student union and support services, has been shortlisted in the ‘Retrofit’ category. And Ed Dymock, Architect Associate, BDP, said: “Since 1878, James Carswell’s original train shed has been hidden away at the heart of Queen Street, but the southern extension of the platforms gave us the opportunity to open up the views, work with volume and scale and allow the station to play a civic role within the city. Martin Jarvie, Architect Associate, BDP, said: “We are delighted to be nominated for these awards. At Strathclyde University the decision to transform the existing buildings rather than a new-build project has substantial sustainable benefits. Our Sustainability Team compared the embodied carbon of the adaptive re-use of the existing building structure to a notional new build equivalent and demonstrated that the project saved around 67% of CO2e.” The winners of the Scottish Design Awards will be announced on 29 June. Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
DIGITAL PLATFORM provider MiProject Solutions believes it has the key to the pressing data challenge facing the UK construction industry. Time and again, reporting mechanisms are shown to be a significant contributing factor to the success of contractors – from identifying risks, to being appointed to frameworks and demonstrating clear KPI performance. MiProject Solutions has created savings for major contractor Willmott Dixon of more than £1.1m per year and shares how this has been achieved while making data a key part of its digital transformation In the words of David Mosey, author of Constructing the Gold Standard, contractors must share information that they would usually “keep to themselves” in order to create meaningful change in the sector. Combined with recommendations from the Construction Playbook, the industry needs to see an urgent cultural shift to embrace transparent data capture, digital transformation, and greater collaboration between delivery partners. MiProject Solutions has adapted its suite of digital platforms to meet the evolving requirements of a wide range of major contractors and framework providers. However, its MiPerformance product has stood the test of time for Willmott Dixon, which was its first partnership seven years ago. The flexibility of its approach is paramount to its success. Martin Ward, director of digital solutions at MiProject Solutions, said: “There is a real impatience brewing among contractors and framework providers regarding inadequate data, and requirements to not only promise but to provide evidence of strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) credentials, robust health and safety practices and strong corporate governance. “There is no sign of this slowing down, and our data-hungry industry will only continue to multiply to meet the UK’s sustainability targets. “Digital transformation is required to turn a new leaf in the sector, which has long held a reputation for being notoriously slow to digitally innovate. We see our job as streamlining data processes to make them as pain-free and efficient as possible, to allow contractors to do what they do best. Our solutions navigate KPIs to revolutionise the way we see data in the sector.” Willmott Dixon’s initial investment in the MiPerformance platform followed its appointment to a SCAPE framework, as it identified the need to accurately calculate local spend and social value. Ahead of the curve for its time, this triggered several other contractors on the framework to see its benefits, choosing to adopt the platform too. SCAPE was then able to view transparent data and KPI performance across its delivery partners in one window and assess progress across a breadth of projects – something they had not seen before. Scott Corey, strategic accounts and services director at Willmott Dixon, said: “When done well, data input, analysis and forecasting can deliver hugely positive outcomes. It can spot time and cost efficiencies in advance, as well as strengthen processes and policies to benefit a wide range of stakeholders. “On the other side of the coin, poor data processes can place extreme pressures on staff, pose security risks and create backlogs that are detrimental to contract performance and business improvement. “Efficient digital data processes are an absolute necessity for a modern contractor. In our case, MiPerformance has cut time spent on admin by 50 per cent, as it calculates social value in real time and streamlines manual processes. “The platform also reduces the opportunity for human error by generating alarms and alerts to help gear us towards our deadlines, and even suggests improvement actions.” Willmott Dixon praised the benefits of good digital data management and its wide-ranging effects – slashing time spent on preparing bids or award submissions, demonstrating value to potential clients and supporting eligibility for accreditations. Scott said: “We need the digital assistance of this platform to identify risks, keep teams on track and accountable, and encourage constructive conversations at all levels. This is what drives performance and allows us to reach internal and external KPIs at Willmott Dixon. “We can’t afford to bypass the digital tools at our disposal – it is an essential step in the industry’s journey to meet the high bar set for us by governing bodies. “I understand that many contractors might be initially reticent to share data with their partners, either out of fear of exposing vulnerabilities or ‘giving too much away’. However, what I have found is that the tool brings a greater sense of collaboration as we work together to reach shared goals. “The system is embedded into our culture, with all new employees inducted straight onto it. We are now seeing the system track more than 20 data collection points per project across all our sites and operations.” Willmott Dixon is also using the platform to track its internal KPIs. It has been configured to pull a wide range of data from several of its key internal information systems, including the customer relationship management (CRM), CSCS system and other MiProject Solutions’ products to serve as the central hub of all knowledge. Framework providers are increasingly aware that a unified approach to digital data processing creates greater transparency and certainty of delivery, helping to build trust and cultivate strong working relationships. In Willmott Dixon’s case, data is not a taboo subject, and a transparent approach to data processing is a strong force for change. MiPerformance is the leading digital solution provided by MiProject Solutions. To learn more about MiPerformance, visit: https://miprojectsolutions.com/solutions/mi-performance/ Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
Construction has begun on an 180,121 sq ft unit at Worcester Six Business Park for one of the UK’s leading dedicated flooring distribution companies. Developer Stoford is delivering a bespoke unit for Worcestershire-based Alliance Flooring Distribution, a subsidiary of Victoria PLC, which offers a UK wide storage, cutting and distribution service for both soft and hard flooring and is moving its operations from Kidderminster to unit 7 at the business park. To meet its targets of reducing its carbon footprint, the build of the unit will be net carbon zero in operation and will feature extensive electric vehicle charging points and photovoltaic panels on the roof. Stoford is also creating two new ponds, which will further improve the green infrastructure on the business park, provide an attractive setting and also introduce new habitats for wildlife. Contractor Benniman has been appointed to build the unit, which will comprise 157,000 sq ft of warehousing, as well as 21,000 sq ft of offices and ancillary space. Completion is expected in Q4 2022 and Alliance Flooring Distribution, which hopes to create a further 60 roles over the next three years, aims to be fully operational on site early 2023. Edward Peel, Development Manager at Stoford, said: “It’s great news that we have started to build this bespoke unit for Alliance Flooring Distribution. We’ll deliver a high-quality unit on a business park that is already making its mark on the local economy and gaining attention from global and national companies that are keen to base themselves in a strategic location that is convenient for both the south west and the Midlands. “Worcester Six has attracted several significant employers that are making their homes and are planning their long-term futures here. This is all positive news for Wychavon, in which the business park sits, and surrounding areas.” Philippe Hamers , CEO of Victoria PLC, said: “A fast and effective distribution network is vital in our industry and this project shows how serious we are about servicing the UK and in an environmentally friendly way. Worcester 6 futureproofs the fantastic distribution service that we offer both to the Victoria brands and our valued third-party customers. We are looking forward to seeing the completion of the building works and starting to operate out of this top-notch facility early next year.” In the past four years, Worcester Six has welcomed Marmon Food and Beverage Equipment, Siemens, Spire Healthcare, Kimal, Kohler Mira and IONOS. For details about Worcester Six Business Park and other units that can be provided, contact the agent: Charles D’Auncey at Harris Lamb – charles.dauncey@harrislamb.com or Ben Wiley at BNP Paribas – ben.wiley@realestate.bnpparibas Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
COMPLETE construction partner Stepnell has celebrated the achievements of six young people, who have successfully completed a ‘Get into Construction’ programme run by The Prince’s Trust. Working together with The Prince’s Trust and in collaboration with GLP Training, and with the support of supply chain partners VD Interiors and Phase9 Roofing who donated materials, labour and tools for students, Stepnell helped to facilitate the three-week course onsite during its work on the University of Worcester’s new state-of-the-art healthcare teaching facility. This is currently under development at the university’s Severn Campus on Hylton Road, Worcester. The course has led to all of the young people achieving a City and Guilds Level 1 Award in Health and Safety within a Construction Environment (RQF), as well as a CSCS Card. Elaine Kendall, social value and engagement manager at Stepnell, said: “Upskilling local people and supporting them into employment is a key focus for Stepnell, as we understand the positive societal impact delivering social value has on the communities where we work. We are delighted to be a part of this fantastic programme to help local young gain the experience, knowledge and qualifications they need to start a career in construction. “This collaborative partnership with The Prince’s Trust and GLP Training is helping to improve the employability of young people in Worcester and inspire the next generation, supporting our aim to address the skills shortage we face in the construction industry.” The programme culminated in a celebration event on the final day of activities at GLP Training’s offices, in which representatives from Stepnell, the University of Worcester, The Prince’s Trust and GLP Training were in attendance. Katie Marie Lynch, Youth Development Lead at The Prince’s Trust said: ‘‘The programme was a great opportunity for young people to explore a career in construction. Each of the young people gained invaluable skills both theoretical and practical, including teamwork and building confidence, which enabled them to build a foundation to work in the construction industry. “Working in collaboration with GLP Training and Stepnell was a positive experience and we look forward to seeing the progression of each young person in the future.’ Gemma Parsons, CEO of GLP Training, said: “This is a fantastic programme that enables young people to gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours to enter the world of construction through a supportive learning environment on an actual construction site. “Learners not only gain the relevant qualifications to enter this key sector but also gain practical work experience in a variety of construction skills to introduce them to a career in construction. The young people have been fantastic and their enthusiasm has been clear in both the learning and practical training.” Mark Evans, assistant director of Estates at the University of Worcester, said: “The University makes a significant contribution to the local economy. When procuring works we always look to include a commitment to working with local contractors and encouraging training and development opportunities wherever possible. “It is therefore pleasing to see that our latest development is having such a positive benefit in the local community, offering these excellent training opportunities to young people.” To find out more about Stepnell’s apprenticeship opportunities, visit: www.stepnell.co.uk or join the conversation at @Stepnellltd. Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
More than half of SME builders feel unprepared for imminent changes in building regulations to improve energy efficiency, claims the Federation of Master Builders, FMB. New rules on ventilation, conservation of fuel and power, overheating and infrastructure for charging electric vehicles come into force on the 15th of June. FMB chief executive Brian Berry said: “Over 50 per cent of small, local builders are not yet prepared or are not aware of the changes. This puts them at real risk of delivering new homes or projects that fall short of the new regulations.” Mr Berry described the latest practical guidance on the changes as complex and difficult for ‘time-poor’ smaller builders to get their heads around. “We are urging the government to provide clear guidance to help make sure small builders are informed of the changes.” Repairs, maintenance and improvement sector up against it He said this was especially important as the repairs, maintenance and improvement sector would be hit on the first day of changes, 15th June. Those in the housebuilding sector who submit plans before that date have one year to construct their development under the existing rules. The changes are interim measures ahead of the future homes and building standards expected in 2025. Property finance intermediary Hank Zarihs Associates said development finance lenders backed the campaign for the government to make guidance clearer for SMEs so they could build with confidence. The concern among smaller builders about the new regulations was a key feature in the FMB’s latest quarterly state of the trade survey. Rising prices and material costs were also a major concern for respondents. Nearly all the FMB members, 98 per cent, reported an increase in material costs with 61 per cent experiencing a rise in wages and salaries. About four out of five said they had increased their charges for work. Although the FMB has welcomed the scrapping of VAT on energy-efficient improvements on the 1st of April, it would like to see this extended to all repairs and maintenance work. “Removal of VAT on all repairs and maintenance jobs, would lower costs for consumers ensuring work doesn’t drop off for builders,” said Mr Berry. Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News
Former England and World Cup footballer Trevor Steven is a special guest at this year’s Digital Construction Week event in May, talking about the role that sport and construction technology can play in improving mental health in the sector. Trevor is speaking at a presentation at 3pm on 18 May, hosted by Causeway Technologies, on ‘Joining the dots between construction, mental health and football’, and will be sharing an update on Causeway’s current research into mental health issues faced by site-based workers in particular. Trevor joined Causeway in November 2020 as Mental Health Ambassador to spearhead Causeway’s partnership with Everton in the Community. The aim of the partnership is to highlight and raise awareness of poor mental health in the construction industry and to campaign for positive change. He is a former England international professional football player with a sporting career spanning 17 years across various clubs including Burnley, Everton, Glasgow Rangers and Olympique de Marseille. Trevor also played for England as part of the 1986 and 1990 World Cup squads. Other topics being discussed by Causeway at Digital Construction Week include a talk by Dr Adam O’Rourke, Causeway’s Emerging Technologies Consultant, on the role of construction technology in helping the sector achieve its Net Zero targets. The session will cover how technology can be used to measure and manage carbon and waste data and how to achieve full transparency on environmental performance across the construction lifecycle. Rebecca Sperti, Customer Relationship Director at Causeway, will also present on the way that digital enablement of a fully interconnected construction ecosystem, not just individual companies, will radically change the sector. Causeway’s vision is to drive a digitally enabled construction industry and become the platform that connects solutions across all parts of the construction value chain. Causeway, which is a headline sponsor of Digital Construction Week, will have an expert team available on Stand DD40 to showcase the full range of Causeway’s software solutions that help companies digitise the entire construction lifecycle. Digital Construction Week is the UK’s only event dedicated to digital construction, engineering, design, manufacturing, and operation. It is running at ExCeL in London on 18-19 May 2022 and is free to attend. Register at: https://www.digitalconstructionweek.com Causeway Technologies was established in 1999. Headquartered in Buckinghamshire in the United Kingdom, it serves over 2,800 customers and has over 370 employees. Causeway provides enterprise and cloud software solutions to the construction and infrastructure maintenance industries and spans the full value and supply chain. www.causeway.com Building Design and Construction Magazine | The Home of Construction & Property News