Refurbished unit at Cambridge Science Park gets a top mark thanks to Kawneer glazing. Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer have helped to refurbish an office building at Cambridge Science Park into the city’s only platinum-rated building on the WiredScore commercial property ranking system. Kawneer’s aluminium AA®100 zone-drained
Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, has appointed Neil Syder to managing director to lead the glass manufacturer as it adapts to an age of decarbonisation and targets new opportunities. Neil brings over 30 years’ experience within the company to the post. Most recently as head of
Architectural glazing by Kawneer features on a landmark residential tower in Liverpool. A diverse range of architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer were specified for a landmark BTR (Build-to-Rent) residential development overlooking Liverpool’s iconic waterfront. Kawneer’s market leading AA®100 curtain wall, AA®720 windows and doors, AA®541 window vents
A Welsh company that has worked on many of Wales’ most iconic buildings is celebrating a key anniversary by giving to and helping charities – rather than holding a physical celebration. AB Glass, an award-winning architectural aluminium and access control specialist, marks its 30th anniversary – and will celebrate by
Curtain walling, windows and doors by Kawneer were used on the third and final phase at The Slate Yard. Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer featured on the third and final apartment building at The Slate Yard, which forms part of the wider £1 billion, 50-acre Salford Central
The GGF has reacted to the news of the Government extension of the transition period for the end of recognition of the CE mark in Great Britain has been extended until 1st January 2023. MHCLG (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) on Tuesday 24th August updated its Guidance providing practical information
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) Group is pleased to announce strategic changes to its management structure, to focus on improving services and further development of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies, FENSA, BFRC, Installsure and RISA. The following changes have been made with full approval of the GGF
As lockdown restrictions continue to ease around the UK, the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) advises all companies to be cautious and still adhere to the GGF and Government’s guidance to make sure that employees and customer stay safe. On 12th April, the Government guidance was updated to state that
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has issued revised guidance for Home Improvement companies and sub-contractors operating in England during the current National Lockdown, following confirmation from Government officials of a new interpretation of the guidance for in-house selling during the pandemic. The general Guidance on the subject of sales,
Following the announcement of a £15m capital grant from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the Transforming Foundation Industries Challenge to bring globally leading capacity to the Glass Futures’ Centre of Excellence in St Helens, Glass Futures’ Chief Executive Richard Katz, said: “This £15m funding is an essential catalyst to
Refurbished unit at Cambridge Science Park gets a top mark thanks to Kawneer glazing. Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer have helped to refurbish an office building at Cambridge Science Park into the city’s only platinum-rated building on the WiredScore commercial property ranking system. Kawneer’s aluminium AA®100 zone-drained curtain wall and thermally superior AA®720 entrance doors feature on all elevations of Unit 216 at the UK’s leading science park, while AA®190 TB severe-duty doors have been used on the main entrance. The unit was taken back to a concrete shell and rebuilt with a brick and glazed façade by main contractor Hutton Construction and is now the new home for Amgen, one of the world’s largest independent biotechnology companies. Amgen, which focuses on R&D in Cambridge, relocated from the neighbouring Units 214 and 240, which will be remodelled and refurbished to the same standard as 216 by LGIM Real Assets, a division of Legal & General Investment Management. Unit 216 was externally remodelled with the addition of a new second floor at a cost of £7.2 million to provide 35,746ft2 of new, Grade A offices delivered to a BREEAM “Very Good” standard. The design by architects Broadway Malyan included projecting feature fins around the perimeter of the curtain wall on the front elevation. These were glazed into the Kawneer curtain wall by approved specialist subcontractor Elliston Steady & Hawes (Aluminium). Elliston Steady & Hawes (Aluminium), who offered an alternative quotation using the Kawneer system, had teams of up to four operatives on site to complete the work.
Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, has appointed Neil Syder to managing director to lead the glass manufacturer as it adapts to an age of decarbonisation and targets new opportunities. Neil brings over 30 years’ experience within the company to the post. Most recently as head of operations, Neil has brought a new standard of efficiency and customer focus to the St Helens manufacturing operations. He was the second Syder to hold the position of head of operations at the glass giant, moving temporarily to Sweden as a child as his father established the company’s Halmstad plant. Neil began at the company working in R&D in the 1980s, building extensive experience over four decades in specialist glass coatings, running production lines, and operational planning. Neil takes over from Matt Buckley, who takes retirement after serving as managing director for more than a decade and having spent 30 years with the business. The change takes effect from the end of December 2021. “It’s an exciting time to take this new post, with the glass industry set to play a transformative role in an age of decarbonisation. We’ve undertaken the world’s first trials in powering a glass furnace with hydrogen at our base in St Helens to help improve our carbon impact within supply chains, while simultaneously delivering the materials that will enable better energy performance in the built environment,” said Neil Syder, incoming managing director at Pilkington UK. “What’s more, Pilkington UK has a fantastic team with a wealth of expertise, operational efficiency, and range of advanced production capabilities to grow as an even more dynamic supplier. Agility will be crucial as we target more collaborative growth opportunities with our customers, while seeing off current headwinds facing the wider manufacturing sector.” Pilkington UK recently became the first glass manufacturer to trial the use of hydrogen in a glass furnace. In 2022 Pilkington UK will also mark the 70th anniversary of the float glass process – the method of manufacturing glass pioneered by Sir Alastair Pilkington in St Helens, Merseyside, and used to this day around the word. In 2006, Pilkington was acquired by leading glass supplier The NSG Group, which today has principle operations around the world and sales in more than 100 countries.
Architectural glazing by Kawneer features on a landmark residential tower in Liverpool. A diverse range of architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer were specified for a landmark BTR (Build-to-Rent) residential development overlooking Liverpool’s iconic waterfront. Kawneer’s market leading AA®100 curtain wall, AA®720 windows and doors, AA®541 window vents and AA®190 TB doors all feature on the £60 million Copper House at 21 Strand Street, designed by Leach Rhodes Walker architects and developed over three years by main contractor GRAHAM. The Kawneer systems were installed by teams of up to 20 operatives by approved specialist sub-contractor FK Group. These included AA®100 zone-drained curtain wall on the ground, second and third storeys, AA®720 top-hung casement and fixed light windows at the rear of the building, and AA®720 single and double-leaf doors on the first and sixteenth floors. AA®541 casement vent inserts also featured in the curtain wall on floors one to 16 and AA®190 TB doors to the ground floor screens. The city centre brownfield site, formerly offices and car parking, has been transformed into a 29,000m2 (GIA) landmark development of 383 apartments for rent over 15 floors, with communal facilities including a residents’’ lounge and private gym and 1,000ft2 of commercial units on the ground floor. It is framed around two concrete tower structures, with off-site podded bathrooms and a system façade designed to withstand the inclement weather conditions overlooking the River Mersey estuary. Residents of the one- to three-bedroomed apartments benefit from rooftop facilities – garden space with flexible and fixed seating, booths with fire pits and fire tables, an outdoor covered kitchen, and a multi-use central space for events or exercise, all enclosed by a 2m-high glass balustrade that provides weather protection without detracting from the stunning views of the river and the Albert Dock. Constructed of reinforced concrete frame and lightweight external walls with rainscreen and brick facade, the building has risen adjacent to the Albert Dock Conservation Area. Christian Gilham, Director at Leach Rhodes Walker for the project, said: “We had promised the city a high quality, landmark building befitting its fantastic location, and we needed the same high quality materials to accompany the quality of design proposed.” Joe Carroll, Project Architect and designer of the scheme, said: “I am very proud we have realised this exciting and unique design on the prominent site, and being able to specify the quality of façade materials was key in delivering this.” Ralph Sage, Senior Project Leader for Leach Rhodes Walker who are frequent specifiers of Kawneer systems, said the systems were specified for “familiarity, known quality and extensive range” and were a significant feature of the elevational treatment. “They provided the quality feel and appearance appropriate to the prestige location. They also met the security requirements where required and the thermal and acoustic requirements,” he said. FK Group’s Associate Design Director Robert Clarke said: “We tendered Kawneer due to our very strong relationship with the systems company, both in fabrication and technical. They are our preferred and No 1 system supplier.” GRAHAM was appointed by joint venture partners Patten Properties and Panacea Property Development on behalf of Invesco Real Estate, the global real estate investment manager, as part of its growing UK residential portfolio. Peter Reavey, Construction Director for GRAHAM, believes The Copper House set a new standard for residential accommodation in Liverpool. “GRAHAM is proud to have delivered this high-quality residential scheme that provides a stunning addition to this iconic part of Liverpool city centre. The Copper House is a stand-out development. The quality of both the design and the build sets it apart, offering future residents a modern living environment with a community feel.” Neil Patten, Joint Managing Director of Panacea Properties, said: “We were ambitious in the vision we set out for The Copper House, and to see it realised in such a spectacular way is something the entire team is very proud of. This has been a long, challenging scheme, but the commitment to get every detail right has paid off considerably. Liverpool now has a sought-after residential development that encapsulates the optimism and ambition of the city. “We enjoyed working with Invesco Real Estate and the delivery of the project by Graham has been first class. The consultant team have all worked tirelessly to deliver a building that sets a new standard for the quality of residential living in Liverpool City centre. My thanks go to the entire team for their efforts, especially in the face of the challenges presented by the pandemic.”
A Welsh company that has worked on many of Wales’ most iconic buildings is celebrating a key anniversary by giving to and helping charities – rather than holding a physical celebration. AB Glass, an award-winning architectural aluminium and access control specialist, marks its 30th anniversary – and will celebrate by renewing its commitment to charities associated with the armed forces. AB Glass was founded by managing director Alan Brayley in 1991 after he cut his teeth as an apprentice in the glass and glazing industry. He started by going door-to-door seeking work in the Swansea area and it was four years before the business moved into its first premises. Today, from its state-of-the-art, purpose built, headquarters in Swansea West Business Park, the company employs more than 40 people and supports a 20+-strong team of sub-contracted installation specialists. It has won numerous awards for its quality and environment standards as well as commitment to a number of charities. The business has worked on a host of landmark buildings in Wales including the Royal Mint Visitor Centre, the Royal College of Music and Drama, the Newport city centre campus of the University of South Wales, The Institute for Innovative Materials, Processing and Numerical Technologies (IMPACT), and HMS Cambria in Cardiff Bay, which is now the Royal Navy’s sole reservist base in Wales. It has also worked on a number of important education institutions including the £40 million ‘super school’ in Baglan, Port Talbot, Croesyceiliog School in Cwmbran, Ysgol Carreg Hir in Briton Ferry, Dylan Thomas School in Swansea, Cefn Saeson Comprehensive School in the Afan Valley, Aberystwyth University, Swansea University’s Bay Campus and many phases of student accommodation including a landmark scheme for Fusion Student in Swansea. As it turns 30 this year, it had planned a summer barbeque. Instead, driven by the many challenges that charities have faced in the past 18 months because of COVID-19, it will donate what it would have spent on a party to a number of charities. The company has a strong affinity with the armed forces and the veterans community in this part of Wales. Alan Brayley served in the Royal Regiment of Wales and Royal Welsh for 20 years, finishing his military career as a Sergeant Major. AB Glass has also employed many ex-service personnel and helped many more in other ways. He is a big supporter of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity – the national charity of the British Army – and recently judged the Welsh Veterans Awards. In addition, he will support The Queen’s Green Canopy, a unique tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. As Deputy Lieutenant for West Glamorgan, supporting Louise Fleet, JP, HM Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan, Brayley will also play a wider role in helping organise the Platinum Jubilee celebrations locally. Alan Brayley, managing director, AB Glass, said: “We have been debating how to celebrate this landmark for some time. It has been a tough period for everyone in the past 18 months due to COVID but many charities have really felt it. As such, we decided that rather than spend the money on ourselves, it would mean a lot more to help others – something that has always been central to our ethos as a company. “We will still raise a glass to what we have achieved internally. I am very proud of everything we have achieved. My colleagues and clients have always been incredibly supportive, and I would like to thank them for everything they have helped us achieve – here’s to the next 30!”
Curtain walling, windows and doors by Kawneer were used on the third and final phase at The Slate Yard. Architectural glazing systems by leading UK manufacturer Kawneer featured on the third and final apartment building at The Slate Yard, which forms part of the wider £1 billion, 50-acre Salford Central masterplan. Two types of Kawneer’s zone-drained curtain walling – AA®100 with 50mm sightlines and AA®110 with 65mm – as well as AA®541 top-hung casement windows and thermally superior AA®720 balcony doors were specified by AHR architects for Plot A7 at The Slate Yard. The 20-storey building comprises 199 apartments for rent for client The English Cities Fund (ECF) – a partnership between national urban regenerator Muse Developments, Legal & General, Homes England and Salford Council. ECF is currently delivering some of the most complex urban regeneration projects across the UK. The first phase of The Slate Yard was one of the first institutionally funded, custom-built BTR (Build to Rent) schemes to be delivered in Greater Manchester, with all three phases at The Slate Yard forward funded by Legal & General. Architect Feidhlim White of AHR, which frequently deploys Kawneer, said the systems were specified due to their aesthetics, practicalities, and cost-effectiveness as well as the company’s standards of customer service. “The system provided the match to the planning images, enabling us to deliver the project to the aesthetic and practical vision,” he said. “The opening lights aided the ventilation system with the ability for purge ventilation whilst still maintaining acceptable sightlines. The simplicity of weatherproofing by glazing in the EPDM makes it an ideal system.” He added: “We tend to use Kawneer a lot as we have a good relationship with their support team and local reps. They’re also well priced in the market, I believe. The client is very pleased with the overall outcome and how the building sits as a suite of three.” The Kawneer aluminium systems were installed over 15 months of the two-year build for main contractor Morgan Sindall Construction by approved specialist sub-contractor FK Group who also installed the Kawneer systems specified by AHR at Plot A6 (the Graphite building), a neighbouring BTR apartment block comprising 135 apartments over 16 storeys for the same client.
The GGF has reacted to the news of the Government extension of the transition period for the end of recognition of the CE mark in Great Britain has been extended until 1st January 2023. MHCLG (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) on Tuesday 24th August updated its Guidance providing practical information for placing construction products on the GB market. The Government announcement stated; “Businesses must prepare for the end of recognition of the CE mark in GB and affix the UK marking using a UK-recognised ‘approved body’. Our intention is to end recognition of the CE mark by 1 January 2023. Current rules will remain in place until legislation is laid to end recognition of the CE mark. Businesses should comply with the new UK regime, as soon as possible. This includes use of the UK mark in GB. To allow businesses time to adjust, some CE marked goods, that meet EU requirements, may continue to be placed on the GB market. However, we intend for this arrangement to end on 1 January 2023, and businesses should ensure they are prepared for the new system before it comes into effect after we have laid legislation.” On hearing the confirmation, David Borland, GGF Senior Technical Officer commented: “Though we anticipated there would be an extension, we are relieved that the extension period has been confirmed, giving companies an additional twelve months to comply with UKCA marking.” Over the last two years, the GGF has been in discussions with MHCLG (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) on the issues (testing and certification) around the continuous implementation of the Construction Products Regulation and CE marking post–Brexit. The concerns raised by the GGF still remain and the Federation is constantly pushing for a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) that would be accepted by the EU27 before the legislation expires at the end of next 2022. David Borland continued, “The EU has refused to recognise test evidence for AVCP3s (Assessment and Verification of Constancy of Performance 3) since 1st January 2021 if supplied by a UK testing body. This will still mean additional testing costs for UK businesses notwithstanding the possible backlog of products to be tested. So whilst we are relieved for the extension, we remain cautious about the future of testing and certification for UK products. On behalf of our Members, we will continue dialogue with Government and hope for a smooth transition to UKCA marking.”
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) Group is pleased to announce strategic changes to its management structure, to focus on improving services and further development of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies, FENSA, BFRC, Installsure and RISA. The following changes have been made with full approval of the GGF Board and the Senior Management Team of the GGF Group. With immediate effect, GGF Managing Director John Agnew will assume overall responsibility for the operational activity of GGF (trade federation), GGF’s central internal services (HR, Finance and IT), and all subsidiary commercial companies. All GGF trade federation management, heads of central cervices & subsidiary commercial company heads will report to John Agnew in their day-to-day roles. Also with immediate effect, Anda Gregory will assume the new role of Chief Development Officer and take full responsibility for the business development activity of the GGF Group, including the trade federation, the central internal services and subsidiary commercial companies. All employees of GGF, the trade federation, central internal services and subsidiary commercial companies will report to Anda on all matters relating to the development of the business processes and systems and more importantly Anda Gregory will lead the development of the GGF Group’s products and services to all GGF Group shareholders, stakeholders and customers. Both John and Anda will continue to report to the GGF President, Tony Smith, acting on behalf of the GGF Main Board. On the new structure, GGF President Tony Smith stated, “This is an exciting time for the GGF Group of businesses, and these changes will enable us to drive the businesses forward creating excellent opportunities for our employees, customers, and shareholders.” On her new role, Anda Gregory commented, “I’m really excited by my new role as it will free up time to work on developing the business in a positive way, which is hard to do effectively around business as usual. And it’s great knowing that the commercial businesses will continue to be well looked after with John Agnew at the helm.” John Agnew concurred, “The changes that we have made in roles and responsibilities, will position the GGF Group of businesses to really focus on operational activities, whilst also developing the opportunities for business growth. This a very positive change for the whole organisation and I look forward to working with my colleagues as we embed the new structure for the benefit of all parts of the GGF Group.” Anda added, “The pandemic has given us the opportunity to reflect on what will work best for the businesses and the group as a whole. Standing still isn’t an option if we are to retain our leading positions in the glass, glazing and fenestration sectors. I’m very much looking forward to the new challenges and working on exciting initiatives for our industry.” Companies who are part of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies, should benefit significantly from these changes, with the new and sharper focus to take advantage of the raft of opportunities emerging as the industry recovers from unprecedented times. The new structure, will enable the GGF Group to grow quicker and improve all aspects of the business, from revenues, profits and investment, through to better processes, systems and a sustainable business that can enable a secure long term future for many in the industry. Tony Smith concluded by sharing his thoughts from a strategic perspective, “For many years, the GGF and its commercial companies have operated well but often independently. These changes will see the GGF Group make better use of its specialist skills across the organisation to improve the delivery of existing services and be more effective in the joint promotion of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies. I am sure all connected to the GGF Group will join me in extending our best wishes to John and Anda in their new roles.” The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is the primary trade association for companies that make, supply or fit flat glass and related products representing more than 60% of the industry’s turnover. As such the GGF is the recognised leading authority for employers and companies within the flat glass, glazing, window, home improvement, plastics and window film industries. This includes double glazing, Energy Efficient Windows, replacement windows, doors, conservatories, applied film, hardware, safety glazing, sealants, fire resistant glass, emergency glazing, decorative glass, secondary glazing, solar control and plastics. The GGF provides information for homeowners, professional specifiers and anyone seeking professional and unbiased information on any aspect of glass and glazing in the UK. GGF members supply replacement windows, doors, conservatories and Energy Efficient Windows in all framing materials including Aluminium, PVC-U, Steel and Timber. The GGF is a great promoter of energy efficient glazing and the GGF’s Carbon Calculator enables homeowners and others to see how much money and carbon can be saved by installing new Energy Efficient Windows. Architects and Specifiers are well supported with a range of literature and professional advisors to assist with all aspects of specification and related issues. GGF Members sign up to the Federation’s Code of Good Practice and are vetted before being accepted. A free conciliation service is provided for mediation between customers and supplying member companies when required. For further information go to: http://www.ggf.org.uk or for consumer information generated by the GGF please visit www.MyGlazing.com
As lockdown restrictions continue to ease around the UK, the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) advises all companies to be cautious and still adhere to the GGF and Government’s guidance to make sure that employees and customer stay safe. On 12th April, the Government guidance was updated to state that all retail (including showrooms, garden centres and concession stores) in England is now permitted to open. Wales and Scotland re-opened showrooms earlier in April and in Northern Ireland retail is expected to re-open by the end of April. In the Republic of Ireland Government will re-open retail on 4th May. In addition, the Scottish Government also announced that non-essential work in people’s homes can resume in Scotland from 26th April. The GGF wrote to the Scottish Government regarding this matter in March, urging that this restriction be removed and aligned with the rest of the UK, where working in people’s homes has been allowed since last year. On the news of the restrictions be lifted, John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented, “It is with some relief for all consumer facing companies that the restrictions are now being eased. With all the Government statistics going in the right direction, the GGF advises all companies re-opening retail premises to operate under the GGF and Government COVID-secure guidance.” James MacPherson, GGF Health, Safety and Environment Manager added, “It’s great to see that the Government testing and vaccination programme are having a significant impact and numbers of cases, hospitalizations and fatalities are coming down. However to make sure that we don’t slip back into another lockdown, it is vital that everyone behaves responsible and takes the necessary precautions. If companies need any support or guidance on this I urge them to utilize the GGF website and check our COVID safe guides.” All companies in the industry can access and download the GGF specific guidance via the GGF website. Please see links below: GGF COVID Safe guides COVID Safe guide for consumers COVID Safe guide for Installers COVID Safe guide for manufacturing and the supply chain
The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has issued revised guidance for Home Improvement companies and sub-contractors operating in England during the current National Lockdown, following confirmation from Government officials of a new interpretation of the guidance for in-house selling during the pandemic. The general Guidance on the subject of sales, published on the Government’s website, as detailed below remains the same and is unlikely to change for the next few weeks. “Door-to-door sales should not take place, and sales activities should be conducted remotely (such as by phone, online, or mail).” The slightly more relaxed interpretation of the rules around the restrictions may allow for sales people to enter the home, if necessary but it is vital for all individuals who are entering a property to ensure they are following the Safe Guidance and social distancing guidelines. John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented on the change, “Government officials have recently confirmed directly to the GGF that if selling and surveying in England cannot be done remotely, then companies and their sub-contractors can conduct pre-booked in-house sales and surveys, if carried out within the Safe Guidance.” The GGF recommends that consumers are offered a remote appointment in the first instance and that advises companies, who cannot sell or survey remotely to ensure they do so, in a controlled and measured manner. John Agnew added, “The GGF recommends that any in-house selling activity should start in February to ensure a responsible and gradual industry approach.” The GGF also advises that all individuals entering a home to carry out work should use the NHS Test and Trace App which can be downloaded from the NHIS website https://covid19.nhs.uk/. On the subject of door to door canvassing, the Government is clear that this activity should not be undertaken at present and this has been underlined by the GGF. In a statement issued to its Membership, the GGF highlights that local authorities in England can issue a prohibition notice on businesses. The GGF’s Primary Authority Partnership confirmed “the (current) level of risk to public health met the requirements for local authorities to be able to issue prohibition notices to businesses as allowed by the regulations”. Companies should be mindful of this possible sanction if they ignore the advice and continue to canvass. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is responsible for enforcing COVID secure guidance in terms of how you are working. The HSE has the power to issue an enforcement notice on any business that is not operating in accordance with COVID secure guidance creating a potential risk to public health and safety. With the restriction on in-house selling slightly relaxed, and if the pandemic health statistics show the situation is improving, the GGF expects the Government to ease the restrictions gradually over the coming weeks and months. In the meantime, the GGF has urged companies who can continue to operate, to do so responsibly and within the spirit of the guidance. John Agnew summarised, “The published GGF and Government Safe Guidance has not changed, all companies who can continue to operate should ensure they follow the safe guidance to safeguard their employees and customers, and to protect the NHS and save lives.” To access the very latest GGF and Government guidance please click on the links below: GGF COVID Latest News Page GGF COVID Guidance Table GGF COVID Guide for Manufacturers and the Supply Chain GGF COVID Guide for Installers GGF COVID Guide for Homeowners
Following the announcement of a £15m capital grant from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the Transforming Foundation Industries Challenge to bring globally leading capacity to the Glass Futures’ Centre of Excellence in St Helens, Glass Futures’ Chief Executive Richard Katz, said: “This £15m funding is an essential catalyst to kickstart the delivery of Glass Futures’ £54m Global Centre of Excellence in St Helens, an area rich in glass history. The state-of-the-art R&D facility will enable Glass Futures and its members to work collaboratively to research and develop innovative solutions enhancing resource efficiency, moving the industry closer to sustainable low-carbon glass production and increasing productivity.” “With this grant, UKRI recognises the importance glass has to play in a future to be built on sustainable, fully recyclable, low-carbon products manufactured with highly efficient processes.” The £15m UKRI grant will be used to install a collaboratively designed, globally unique, experimental furnace and state of the art infrastructure capable of producing 30 tonnes of glass per day. This line will enable Glass Futures’ members and researchers to work together with academia to test alternative fuels, new raw materials, Industry 4.0 concepts, demonstrate new products and develop new processes, enabling the Glass Industry to implement change in a safe experimental space. Developments at the facility will also have profound implications for other Industries such as Chemicals, Ceramics, Paper, Steel and Cement. Together with Glass, these industries known as Foundation Industries provide the foundations for civilisation. They share common challenges and require similar developments and, although Glass Futures’ primary focus is the glass sector, it is hoped many of the industry efficiency projects can be directly implemented in other Foundation Industries. Richard added: “The world as a whole needs to move to low carbon and highly efficient processes, but this change does not come without investment, both in time and money. Our Government is supporting the Foundation Industries to enable innovation and help create shared prosperity. No single organisation can enable a global shift in industrial practice, but Glass Futures has begun to show a new path to collaboratively pooling knowledge, resources, and effort. We sincerely thank all our members and supporters who are helping realise an ambitious and game changing facility.” Glass Futures is a not-for-profit membership organisation with a Board comprising leading individuals from the global glass industry, its supply chain and academia. The facility will also enable highly diverse apprenticeships and a unique centre to up-skill workers across the total glass supply chain, tapping into existing and potential talent within the St Helens’ community, across the Northern Powerhouse and internationally. The facility will attract inward investment to the north-west of England as leading players across the glass supply chain and academia begin to use the facility for R&D, training, conferences and even as a new base for parts of their business. Global glass manufacturers, large and small, and their supply chains are invited to join with Glass Futures to be at the forefront of these essential new technologies, promoting collaboration and change. Equally, the sister Foundation Industries are welcome to join and share knowledge. Further Background on Glass Futures: The 158,000 sq. ft facility is being built on a 14-acre site adjacent to St Helens’ Rugby League ‘Totally Wicked’ stadium. The facility will be centred around a 30 tonne per day low carbon demonstration furnace creating the world’s first openly accessible, commercially available, multi-disciplinary glass melting facility with provision for research and development trials to establish new manufacturing techniques, raw materials, improved efficiencies whilst decarbonising the glass industry. The site in St Helens is expected to create around 50 highly skilled jobs directly, along with hundreds of indirect employment opportunities. Earlier in 2020, Glass Futures was awarded a £7.1m contract by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to investigate alternative low carbon energy sources to replace high carbon natural gas in the production of glass. Glass Futures is already lauded as a game changer leading to substantial improvements in manufacturing methodology, enhanced automation and increased efficiencies whilst targeting the removal of CO2 from the manufacturing process, significantly enhancing sustainable growth in the Liverpool City Region.
