Involving Residents in Development Plans

Although care facilities for older people have become a part of everyday life in the last century, demand for services and facilities is ever-changing. When designing a redevelopment project for a community of older people, it’s important to factor in a structured approach to resident relations.

Stuart Kerr from national contractor Willmott Dixon discusses how community engagement was the driving force behind the successful overhaul of a leading Nottingham extra-care facility.

The £13m Winwood Heights, Nottingham’s newest retirement village, comprises an industry-leading new build extra-care facility as well as the regeneration of two existing blocks of flats.

It was completed in summer 2019 on behalf of Nottingham City Homes, and included the renovation of 180 independent living apartments and the demolition of old garages and a community centre to make way for a state-of-the-art extra care centre designed by Halsall Lloyd Partnership and comprising 44 extra care apartments, a sky lounge, a beauty salon and an expansive shared lounge.

The carefully considered approach to resident engagement and involvement is what sets this project apart.

Connecting with the community

Like many extra-care developments, community engagement played a huge role in the Winwood Heights project. Willmott Dixon adopted an innovative approach to engagement by encouraging residents to be involved at every stage, from design and build to completion.

Stuart Kerr, operations director at Willmott Dixon in the Midlands, said: “As soon as the project was awarded to us and we met with Nottingham City Homes, it was clear that a lot of community engagement was part of the brief.

“Engaging with residents and the local community was absolutely integral to the project. We encouraged residents to come to us with their concerns and ideas, and where we could, we took them on board to improve the design and tailor it to what residents wanted to see.

“We held regular liaison sessions which not only allowed us to address any concerns at the root of the problem and reassure residents, but also allowed us to take on board resident suggestions, many of which ended up in the final build. A prime example was the request for the redevelopment of a path that links two nearby roads – it wasn’t part of the original plan,  but we incorporated it into the build as it provided added benefit to residents and the wider community.

“We made sure that residents were involved every step of the way. Going the extra mile to give them peace of mind is ultimately what made this project such a success, both on a construction level and for our project portfolio.”

Nick Murphy, chief executive at Nottingham City Homes said: “From the outset, we knew that we wanted the design to promote interaction between existing and new residents. Having a design that included areas across all five storeys of the new build where people could socialise was key, and resulted in a design that included shared areas ranging in size and intimacy, all of which are accessible for both existing and new residents.

“A spacious and relaxing community hub was integrated into the design of the ground floor of the extra-care apartment building, promoting ease of movement and access between the buildings on-site. A roof terrace was also included that has stunning views across the surrounding parkland to the city beyond.”

By ensuring that both supply partners and residents worked together throughout the planning, preconstruction and construction phases, the scheme was delivered within budget and on time – while also ensuring that Willmott Dixon received a score of 45 on the Considerate Constructor Scheme, something that is rare on a project of this scale.

Designing and building with older people in mind

The existing site at Woodthorpe Grange Park was home to two 1960s tower blocks known as Woodthorpe Court and Winchester Court. Owned by Nottingham City Council and managed by Nottingham City Homes, the development at Woodthorpe Grange Park is one of Nottingham’s many independent living communities for people aged over 55.

The most significant elements of the project were the new build extra care facility between the two existing clocks, and refurbishment of the ageing facades of the tower blocks themselves. Throughout an extensive design development process between architect, client and contractor, the brief evolved to maximise the potential of the site.

Stuart Kerr said: “Winwood Heights takes social housing for the over 55s to the next level and sets a new benchmark for older people’s living. We considered the appearance of the building and the way it integrated into its surroundings – the look had to be sympathetic to the parkland setting, and the design for all three elements of the project had to provide a dynamic and modern external aesthetic whilst blending in with the natural environment of the park – we retained mature trees and hedgerows around the site, and planted additional trees and vegetation to enhance its ecological value.”

Nick Murphy added: “The development is Secure by Design, so residents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they’re safe in their own home. Residents benefit from staff based on site 24/7, and a connection to Nottingham on Call, our 24-hour care alarm system, so that help is always on hand.”

The development – which was procured through the Scape Major Works Framework – included a new EWI (external wall insulation) system, to improve the look of the two existing tower blocks on the site. As well as looking great, the EWI also boosted both buildings’ thermal performance to create warmer and more comfortable living conditions for residents.

Daniel Marlow from Halsall Lloyd Partnership said: “The design of the EWI gives the appearance of cladding panels, but it’s actually render, applied directly to the outer insulation. This system is not only in keeping with the surrounding environment, but is made of a non-combustible material which mitigates the risk of potential fire spread.”

Willmott Dixon’s community engagement didn’t stop at the redevelopment process. They arranged charitable events for residents, such as raising money for the British Lung Foundation, and worked with the wider community to help ensure a lasting legacy. Willmott Dixon also worked with Nottingham City Council to support local people into finding jobs, and supported a school engagement project, Budding Brunels, by offering careers advice and work experience to 25 students. Apprentices were engaged through the supply chain, with over 330 weeks’ experience provided.

Using local labour and products was also key within the development, with 79% of labour coming from within 40 miles, and 45% within 10 miles. 88% of the work sourced was delivered through SMEs. 40% of goods were sourced from within 10 miles, and 80% within 40 miles.

Stuart Kerr ended by saying, “It’s been a pleasure working with Nottingham City Homes to create this fantastic facility.  We’re really proud to have been involved.”

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How to Fireproof Historic Buildings

Adrian Attwood, Executive Director of DBR Ltd., explains the reasons for historic landmark fires and how to prevent them from occurring.

General construction companies are well aware of the basic fire safety procedures which need to be put in place during the building phase of a project, however experts in conservation and restoration will know how to best protect a historic landmark.

Arson, electrical fires and construction mishaps are the three most common causes of fires in older buildings[1], and while one might think these can easily be prevented, fireproofing a historic site is anything but simple.

With the recent fire at Nantes Cathedral, which destroyed a 17^th Century organ, and the shocking Notre Dame blaze which brought down its iconic spire, it has become increasingly evident famous sites worldwide need stronger and better fire protection.

From fire upgrades which require detailed surveys and design development, to the installation of new fire doors and glazed fire screens that don’t compromise the historic building fabric, the process of safeguarding a heritage building is a lengthy one.

That said, fires are avoidable, and the risk can be significantly reduced by following the correct steps to ensure a historic site is safe.

Mistakes often made

Various mistakes made during construction are the most frequent reason for historic building fires.

One of the most common errors is the use of an unskilled or underqualified team to carry out fire improvement works. Fire safety training is essential for the building maintainers, contractors and people who occupy the building so that not only are fires avoided early on, but so that everyone on site can quickly and safely exit the premises should a fire occur.

Additionally, fire safety surveys are sometimes neglected, resulting in outdated safety features and too few, or inappropriately placed, fire extinguishers. Building managers therefore need to ensure these surveys are conducted regularly.

Another mistake is damage caused to the historic fabric by using inappropriate materials when upgrading fire doors. It’s essential the correct tools and knowledge are applied when improving the fire safety features of a historic building, otherwise the fabric can be left in an even weaker state than it was originally in.

In terms of arson, enhanced security measures put into effect by the site’s owners when possible, and removing highly flammable items once the building is closed, will make it harder for trespassers to set the building alight.

Solutions aren’t without their challenges

While there are many things to keep in mind when upgrading the fire safety features of a heritage landmark, several challenges come with the works.

Once the relevant permission is obtained to carry out fire upgrades, such as Listed Building Consent (required for all types of works on a listed building which affect the structure’s unique fabric), it’s important to understand the intricacies of installing different types of fire doors and screens.

Temporary Fire Doors

While temporary fire doors are just that, they still require careful consideration of the surrounding building fabric. The most important thing to consider when installing these types of doors is the fixing details. For example, we’ve developed a bespoke fixing method which avoids having to create additional fixing directly into the building fabric.

Historic Fire Doors

When upgrading existing historic fire doors, avoid ironmongery that isn’t CE marked or fire rated. Often, these doors have been poorly upgraded or maintained for a number of years, so they must be handled delicately. Depending on the severity of the damage, skilled conservation carpenters should be hired to carry out the work either on site, in a mobile workshop or in an offsite workshop environment.

Another thing to take into account with historic fire doors is asbestos. It’s vital workers wear the proper protective gear when approaching historic material that is potentially harmful and to remove the asbestos as soon as possible.

Glazed Fire Screens

With the aid of a fire consultancy team, glazed fire screens can be secured to historic opening and door surrounds.

Comprehensive design and project testing is required for fire screens before the system can be manufactured, and as every site is different, this can prove to be challenging at times.

Further, clients will sometimes change the specification measures of the glazing, causing the glass to be extremely thick. This, in turn, requires the frame that is holding the glass in place to be made thicker as well, calling for new considerations to be made and additional labour.

New Fire Doors

When historic fire doors cannot be repaired or upgraded, new doors will need to be installed. This can prove to be a challenge at times due to both expensive burn tests, if the door construction has not been tested, and costly development of spindle moulds to replicate the details of the original doors.

Finally, with any type of fire safety upgrade, stakeholder liaison and adequate access to the space is key. The project team needs to make sure its workers are set up in a manner which enables flexibility and allows the client to maintain normal building function and operation. This is especially important if the site experiences consistent heavy footfall, such as a government building, place of worship, department store or tourist attraction.

Taking necessary measures 

There are a range of measures, in addition to the installation of fire doors, which must be taken in order to reduce the risk of fire.

These include the development and implementation of a robust fire strategy, taking the building’s current use into account, and carrying out ‘hot’ works away from the building when possible. They also involve building occupiers maintaining regular testing and improvement works, and employing competent contractors who have well-developed systems in place to plan, monitor and manage the fire safety work.

It can be done

Fire safety repairs may seem like a daunting task, especially when conducted in older buildings. However these buildings are where fires are most easily started and quickly spread, which means it’s essential the proper precautions are taken to minimise this risk.

Fireproofing a historic building is by no means a simple process. However with the right team and expertise, fires can be avoided, and history can be preserved for both current and future generations to appreciate and enjoy.

[1] https://ift.tt/3aXVtYY

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Mottram bypass reaches major milestone

Plans for a new £200 million bypass to improve journeys on the main route between Manchester and Sheffield have reached a major milestone.

Highways England has appointed Balfour Beatty Atkins as its delivery partner to design and construct the new bypass which will take traffic away from the village of Mottram in Longdendale.

A public consultation on the scheme is now being planned for this winter, and a planning application is due to be submitted next year. If the plans are approved by the government then work on the project could start by spring 2023.

Around 25,000 vehicles currently travel along the A57 through Mottram every day, including over 2,000 HGVs. The village is on the key 25-mile trans-Pennine route between Manchester and Sheffield, connecting the M67 in the North West to the M1 in Yorkshire.

The new dual carriageway would run from the end of the M67 (junction 4) through a new underpass to the north of Mottram in Longdendale. The road would then join the A57 east of the junction with the A6018 (Black Moor).

A new single carriageway road is also being planned to link the A57 from Mottram Moor to Woolley Bridge, taking traffic away from the current route of the A57 along Woolley Lane.

Andy Dawson, Highways England’s Project Manager, said:  “We’re pleased to have a contractor on board for the bypass which will take traffic away from Mottram in Longdendale, and provide quicker, safer and more reliable journeys for thousands of drivers every day.

“The bypass is part of a series of improvements we’re planning to improve journeys on the trans-Pennine route between Manchester and Sheffield, along the A57, A628 and A616.

“We can now start the detailed design work for the bypass and expect to be able to hold a public consultation on our proposals this winter.”  

On Friday 21 August 2020 Highways England unveiled plans to deliver £14bn of projects over the next five years, increasing the quality, capacity and safety of the motorways and major A roads that have helped keep the country going during Covid-19 pandemic.

Almost £11bn will also go into improving everyday journeys by repairing and replacing parts of the strategic road network which connects the country, largely built in the 1960s and 70s.

Four major road schemes are due to be completed in the North West by spring 2025, and another five major projects are planned to start construction including the Mottram bypass.

Phil Clifton, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s Highways business, said: “Balfour Beatty, and our design partners, Atkins, are proud to be delivering this critical project to support economic growth in the North of England.

“We are pleased to contribute to the development of the local area by connecting communities and bringing additional social value through the use of local suppliers and supporting employment opportunities within the area; helping to leave a lasting legacy in the communities in which we work.”

Work also started earlier this year to improve the flow of traffic and increase capacity at Westwood roundabout in Tankersley, on the stretch of the Manchester to Sheffield route near the M1 in South Yorkshire.

Highways England is widening the approach roads at the junction and adding an extra lane on the roundabout to increase capacity, as well as installing traffic lights to help reduce congestion and make journeys more reliable.

New electronic road signs are also being installed along the A628 (Woodhead Pass) to provide drivers with early warnings of closures due to bad weather or other incidents.

More details on the schemes taking place along the trans-Pennine route are available at www.highwaysengland.co.uk/projects/a57a628-trans-pennine-programme

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£200m to Transform College Buildings

From September 2020, more than 180 further education institutes will receive a share of £200 million to allow them to begin immediate work to repair and refurbish their buildings and campuses, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson announced on Wednesday 19 August 2020.

The funding marks the latest step in the UK Government’s drive to overhaul further education and deliver the skilled workforce that is much needed by employers and the economy alike. Doing this will help with the Government’s plans to ‘level up’ skills and opportunities for more people throughout the country.

This cash boost forms part of a major £1.5 billion investment that will transform colleges over the next five years, with the initial investment being fast-tracked so colleges can kick-start work this year, meaning students and staff will benefit from it a year earlier than originally planned.

Gavin Williamson, Education Secretary, said: “We want to build a world class further education system which delivers for the whole nation, and a key part of this is ensuring colleges are fit for the future – with better facilities and brand-new buildings.

“It is brilliant news that more than 180 colleges will receive a share of £200 million so they can start immediate work to renovate buildings and facilities, with further funding being invested over the next 5 years.

“We want all students to continue to receive high-quality education and training, no matter where they grow up or what college they go to. Now more than ever, it is vital that colleges can support their students to gain the skills they need to progress and help the economy to recover and grow.”

The funding comes ahead of the publication of a White Paper this autumn in which plans will be set out to a build high-quality further education system that will provide skills that individuals, employers and the economy will need to grow and thrive in the future.

Work is under way to transform technical and vocational education and training in the England, including the introduction of new T Levels– high-quality technical courses equivalent to three A Levels – from September and working with employers to create more apprenticeship opportunities.

The government is also establishing a network of twenty Institutes of Technology. These are collaborations between universities, FE colleges, and leading employers. They will specialise in delivering high-quality higher technical education and training in STEM subjects, such as digital, advanced manufacturing and engineering. Backed by up to £290 million in capital funding to help provide cutting-edge industry standard facilities and kit, they will help deliver the skilled workforce employers need.

Later this year, the government will launch a second competition to ensure that all parts of England are covered by Institutes of Technology, so everyone has the chance to gain higher technical skills and help unlock growth across the country.

David Hughes, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges, said: “Colleges will be pleased to see their individual allocations as they prepare to provide training, skills and education to over 2 million young people and adults next year. It will help them provide the facilities, advice, support, and high-quality teaching they deserve and need.

“This capital resource, for bringing building and digital infrastructure up to date is important but they will need to move quickly to spend this money. The college condition survey confirms that there has been underinvestment in the college estate in recent years so it is good news that the Treasury has allocated money for a five year programme to put this right and to ensure that future students and apprentices learn and train in world-leading environments.”

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Public Service Development Approved

Planning permission has been approved for a new multimillion-pound public service development at Western Way, Bury St. Edmunds. The new development looks to unite public services with enterprising space.

The new 17-acre development will provide a nationally ground-breaking way to deliver integrated public services for its communities and be part of a network of existing and planned ‘hub’ projects throughout West Suffolk.

It will offer a new state-of-the-art leisure centre with an integrated health and social care hub. The development will include a large amount of new employment space, council services, police services, an advice centre, voluntary organisations and community and education services, all of which will be conveniently located in one building, improving public access, service delivery and efficiency.

Along with this, there will also be the opportunity for multiple other partners to join the scheme under the auspices of the Government’s One Public Estate programme. The project will repurpose a 10,000m2, 1960s depot building as part of its sustainability objectives, including significant infrastructure improvements, whilst further work will take place on a green travel plan, with the emphasis being on the reduction of car travel.

The new plans were approved by West Suffolk Council at a committee meeting last week. A full range of services will be undertaken by built environment consultancy, Pick Everard.

Paul Darlow, Regional lead for East Anglia at PerLect Circle, who is also regional director at Pick Everard, said: “We are really pleased to receive planning permission for the redevelopment of Western Way. This is set to be a significant project for the region and will form part of the long-term vision to create jobs and attract investment to the area.”

Councillor John Griffiths, Leader of West Suffolk Council, said: “We are pleased that another important step has been taken along the way to deliver another ground-breaking initiative in West Suffolk. Not only will people be able to access health, leisure, education, and public services on one site, but it shows that working together across the public sector in new ways can bring greater benefits to health and wellbeing. We are now looking forward to working with our partners to consider the next stages of delivering this long-term and exciting project, which if anything, recent events have shown is even more needed than ever”.

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Construction Complete at First All Timber Building

BAM are pleased to announce that construction has completed on the brand-new King’s Cross Sports hall, a community sports centre and gym, located at the North East edge of the 67-acre King’s Cross Development.

The building, which was designed by Bennetts Associates along with engineering firm Arup, features an indoor sports hall as well as a health and fitness suite over two levels. The sports hall has been built to Sport England standards and can be used as either four badminton courts, a basketball court, a volleyball court, or a five-a-side football pitch. The building is to be operated by Camden Council, with the gym being managed by Better Gyms.

The Sports Hall, built by BAM, is primarily constructed using a cross laminated timber (CLT) frame and glulam timber columns, a neutral alternative to steel and concrete that is both lightweight and carbon friendly. Its has been clad in zinc and has a super-lightweight concrete substructure which runs perpendicular to the tunnels of the underground to prevent concentrated loads.

It was also designed to meet a near-zero carbon target, with several innovative features being incorporated into the design. The building’s sustainability credentials are further bolstered by the fact it was designed to have multiple lives. When it opens, the gym and fitness suite on the upper floor will be open to the public, however for a time the sports hall will be the home of the Construction Skills Centre. This is a temporary fixture until the skills centre moves to their new home in Euston, at which point the sports hall will open to the public.

Project Manager, Christian Clues, BAM noted: ‘Q2 posed some unusual challenges. It sat over three Victorian brickwork live Network Rail tunnels serving King’s Cross Station. This required very precise tunnel monitoring; our careful methodologies avoided any complications. The technical tunnel works were conducted with painstaking care and attention to detail. We conducted extensive tests on the bespoke concrete mix to ensure it wasn’t too heavy. This regime affected batching plant operations, and meant independent testing on site, and re-weighing before a pour commenced. The timber also had its technical aspects, CLT’s moisture retaining properties making it hard to dry. We came up with a vented design solution where we could install the roofing membrane and allow air/moisture to escape so the timber dried out. This worked very successfully. We managed to bring the scheme in despite the start of the UK lockdown and I’m delighted to say the finished building looks impressive.’

Will Colthorpe, Partner, King’s Cross Central Limited Partnership comments: ‘We are thrilled that the Sports Hall has now completed, adding a further piece to the King’s Cross jigsaw. Our development activity is now largely focused at the northern end of the site and we’re extremely pleased with how it is all coming together and offering residents, workers and visitors a wide range of amenities. The Sports Hall will be a fantastic asset for the local community, and we look forward to opening the gym later this year.’

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UKIS Engage New Speakers Announced

This year, the UK Infrastructure Show (UKIS) is going online and will be delivered as a live, online interactive event on Wednesday 9 September 2020. The decision was made to move UKIS 2020 into a virtual event as a consequence of COVID-19, taking into consideration the health and wellbeing of all participants and attendees of the event.

Here at UK Construction Online, we are pleased to announce that two new speakers have been confirmed who will be giving talks at the event on Wednesday 9 September 2020.

The first new speaker is Denise Wetton, Commercial and Business Development Director, North West and Central Region at Network Rail. Denise will speak from 11:15-11:45am at the Transport and Logistics Zone.

The second new speaker announced is Nick Wilkinson, Commercial Director at the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), who’ll be taking to the virtual Live Stage at 12:30-12.40pm, with his speech titled, “Supplying to Defence Infrastructure Organisation”.

Using innovative technology, the new immersive experience will connect the infrastructure and supply chain community, with participants being able to browse valuable content, use chat tools to network with exhibitors. They will also be able to choose and attend their preferred presentations and training sessions.  This year’s UKIS is surely an event not to be missed!

UKIS Engage 2020 will also allow participants to join the event from any location they wish via desktop, mobile or other device. This will ensure that delegates can engage with the event on the move. On top of this, participants won’t miss anything as there will also be an option to catch up later via our an-demand option.

More information on what you can expect from this new digital event experience can be found by visiting the UKIS website here.

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Can Digitisation Set Construction Firms Apart

David Hose is CEO at AirMap, in this feature he writes about how digitisation has the ability to set construction firms apart and strengthen their position amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recent industry reports indicate that the UK construction sector may be on the cusp of a revival following a period of uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the latest IHS Markit/CIPS UK Construction Purchasing Managers’ Index, construction activity in the UK rose to 55.3 in June 2020, signaling that companies are getting back to work.

These findings align with analysis from the Office for National Statistics, which recently reviewed the business impact of COVID-19 on the UK construction sector and identified an increase in the number of construction companies operating during June. But despite these gains, economic recovery will not be instant, and construction output in the final quarter of 2020 is widely estimated to fall below pre- COVID-19 levels.

 

Could cutting edge technologies play a role in helping the construction sector get back on its feet? Paul Cuatrecasas, founder and CEO at advisory firm Aquaa Partners, thinks so. Cuatrecasas is calling on the UK government to form a specialist taskforce to encourage the nation’s construction industry to adopt leading technologies. He argues that UK construction firms can increase efficiency and recover revenue by digitising their operations and partnering with, investing in, or utilising new technologies such as drones, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence.

The construction industry lags behind other industries such as manufacturing when it comes to adopting automation technologies that improve productivity. But COVID-19 has started to change that. Construction companies both in the UK and around the globe are beginning to realise how virtual construction tools such as drone technology can keep their projects on track despite work from home and social distancing mandates.

With drone technology, construction professionals can monitor project progress without ever leaving their desks. They can conduct virtual site visits and provide regular updates to investors and other stakeholders. This is particularly prevalent in the current climate where social distancing regulations remain in force in the UK. Drone technology facilitates compliance with social distancing measures as it allows construction teams to conduct contactless inspections that keep workers safe by limiting their interactions with each other and with shared equipment.

Furthermore, images captured by drones allow construction firms to view their job sites from all angles, gain increased visibility, and unlock critical business intelligence that saves both time and money. Construction firms that regularly survey their sites with drones benefit from access to 360-degree images, orthomosaics, and image series captured over time. This data, or ‘drone capture,’ enables construction professionals to make observations that would not be seen from the ground or during a standard inspection. As a result, mistakes are easier to identify, defects quicker to eliminate, and issues resolved as they occur.

Rework is an expensive part of the construction process, extending project timelines and contributing as much as 5% of a project’s overall contract value. But rework can be reduced by using drone captures to identify errors, report on productivity pitfalls, and ensure that a project meets pre-defined and agreed-upon standards.

Construction disputes are costly and time-consuming: according to the Arcadis 2019 Global Construction Disputes Report, disputes cost global construction companies an average of $33m in 2019 and took approximately 17 months to resolve. Drone technology can help resolve disputes and lessen the cost. Drone captures provide an objective, unambiguous record of progress, from initial site survey through to project completion. With the right software solution, construction companies can ensure that their drone-captured data is stored in the cloud and accessible to key internal and external stakeholders. They can also use their data to settle disputes and avoid potentially costly legal fees.

All these gains translate to economic benefit. PwC released a report last year highlighting the potential for drone technology to revolutionise industrial inspections, especially within the construction industry. In the report, PwC estimates that widespread adoption of drones could contribute an £8.6bn uplift in GDP by 2030 thanks to productivity and efficiency gains.

In order to get maximum value from their drone operations, construction companies should seek out solutions that allow them to automate high-precision image capture and deploy smart data processing in order to generate insights. These solutions ensure airspace safety and compliance and are integrated with widely used project management tools. Using an integrated software platform allows construction companies to complete drone inspections safely and efficiently and gain insights at scale across their entire project portfolio. UK construction firms can also choose to work with hardware retailers that offer access to construction-specific software solutions for automating drone operations.

Drones are no longer the next frontier in construction; they are the here and now. By harnessing automation, integrating drones into day-to-day operations, and finding the right software solution, UK construction firms can gain actionable site intelligence, increase efficiencies, and keep their projects on track at a time when operating remotely is critical to business success.

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Plans for Nottingham Guildhall Granted

Planning permissions have been granted by Nottingham City Council for the much anticipated multimillion-pound development of Nottingham’s Guildhall. The new plans will bring the currently vacant building into its next lifetime and will create more than 250 jobs in the city.

A planning application was submitted by a JV between Locksley Hotels Ltd and hotel group Ascena in May 2020, which detailed plans for a 162-bed, four-star hotel, which will include a rooftop fine dining restaurant, and a spa as well as wedding and conference facilities.

The hotel will also house luxury rooms and existing courtrooms in the building will be converted into bar and restaurant facilities, which means they will retain the existing original listed features. The modern extension to the northern elevation of the existing building will also utilise high-grade materials to give a nod to Nottingham’s lace heritage in its design.

John Wilby, Project Lead for Ascena, said: “Having most recently housed the city council’s offices, Nottingham’s Guildhall is an iconic building in the city centre, which has hosted a magistrates’ court, police station and fire station since it was built in 1887. After it has sat vacant for the best part of a decade, we are pleased to have hit this significant milestone in breathing new life into it. The development will not only bring jobs to the area but will also help elevate the city as a tourist destination.”

Councillor David Mellen, Leader of Nottingham City Council, said: “I’m very pleased that these exciting proposals to turn Nottingham’s Guildhall into a high-quality hotel have been given the go ahead. It’s something we have been keen to happen for a long time and our planning officers have worked with the developers to help them shape a development which respects the history of this grand old building and bring it back into use.

“The mixture of uses on the rest of the site will help to reinvigorate this part of the city centre at a time when new developments and the jobs they bring are very welcome indeed.

“This investment in the city shows ongoing confidence in Nottingham and will complement other schemes that are transforming the city centre into a new destination for residents, businesses and visitors.”

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The Worksite of Tomorrow, Today

Burcin Kaplanoglu is Executive Director, Innovation Officer at Oracle Construction and Engineering. In this feature he writes about how the construction industry is responding in innovative ways to the disruption it has faced in recent months

The construction industry is finding itself learning to respond to this new and unprecedented era of disruption. From global supply chains disruptions to adopting strict physical distancing rules to keep sites open, it has resulted in a slower-than-usual progress on many projects.

While the delays have been exacerbated by Covid-related challenges around health, safety and productivity, it only reveals what the industry already knows – that it remains one of the least digitised industries, with many onsite projects completed in the same way they were being done decades prior.

With the unpredictability around job sites, project managers must consider innovative but dependable solutions to achieve project delivery success in this new reality. In many cases, it may require adjusting the means and methods traditionally used when delivering projects in the past.

Here are a few solutions available that can help address the current unique industry challenges, ensuring construction projects are progressing with as little disruption as possible.

Remote visual monitoring of construction sites

In lieu of on-site inspections, construction companies have begun embracing a variety of remote visual tools, including drones, laser scanning, light detection and ranging technology (LiDAR), to remotely monitor the progress, quality and security of their projects.

By conducting field inspections and scheduling reviews from the safety of workers’ own homes, these new technologies can enable teams to review what is there versus what should be there to sub-centimetre accuracy. This allows for social distancing and enables project teams to revise contractors’ work sequences to physically separate otherwise risky work interactions.

In addition, site cameras can also provide real-time monitoring and security. For example, pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras let users monitor various areas of the site and zoom into areas of interest while creating panoramic images and time-lapse videos. Site cameras use thermal sensing and edge-based analytics to sense motion, which triggers email/SMS/text alerts. In addition, fixed cameras are increasingly leveraged to enhance remote collaboration between stakeholders while also capturing images and time-lapse videos to send regular updates.

Social distancing on construction sites

In the case that on-site inspections are necessary, construction companies have found success with artificial intelligence (AI) in improving jobsite safety and mitigating risk. This is due to its ability to provide more safety coverage without sending additional people to the site – creating automated reports to help with mitigation plans and documentation.

With sensors attached to the workers, it is also possible to emit a progressively louder alarm as a reminder whenever workers are too close to each other. The alarm will serve to gradually change and improve the habits of workers to practice safe social distancing.

In addition, in the event that there is a confirmed case of Covid-19 on a worksite, an employer can use historical data captured passively by the worker’s device to gauge who may have been exposed.

Bring people, information, and processes together

To protect teams, operations and ultimately project outcomes, it is important that all project schedules are updated throughout the project. This means data silos and offline recordkeeping are minimised.

The update should be comprehensive, documenting a completed and in-progress status for all design, permitting, bidding, procurement, submittal, fabrication, delivery, and construction activities. This can be quite time-consuming, so a schedule management solution is ideal in this case to ensure a more seamless and efficient integration to log the data. Ideally this would be directed to a centralised centre.

It is remarkable that today’s high-tech buildings and infrastructure assets are contrasted with dated, low-tech processes. Yet as a result of the ongoing global crisis, construction industries are finding themselves pursuing – and in some cases fast-tracking – digital transformation in order to continue to operate through this new reality. Whether it is to mitigate the direct impacts of Covid-19 on the worksites or new ways to approach project delivery, it is clear that the digital agenda cannot be ignored.

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VST Awarded CityFibre Contracts

VolkerSmart Technologies (VST) has been awarded full fibre rollout contracts in Swindon and Slough by CityFibre. Part of their £56 million investment into high-speed broadband in both towns, the contract is set to begin in October 2020 and will continue to 2023.

VST is the Smart Cities initiative from highways service provider, VolkerHighways. It will construct full fibre networks on behalf of CityFibre, which will reach almost every home and business throughout Swindon and Slough. These projects will secure employment for over 100 people over the next three years.

The works include excavating 430,00m of new trenches in Swindon and 262,000m in Slough. The teams will also install ducting, before blowing, splicing, and finally testing the fibre optic cables.

The introduction for full fibre will make it easier for residents to work from home , the works will also be providing the essential infrastructure needed for almost every home and business in Swindon and Slough to access the UK’s fastest broadband services.

Where possible, the works will involve a combined installation, incorporating both new underground trenched duct network and existing overhead infrastructure. By using a hybrid installation, the team will be able to deliver with speed and efficiency, while also minimising disruption for residents.

Swindon and Slough will both benefit from this major investment in their future, as part of CityFibre’s plans to replace the nation’s legacy networks with gigabit-capable full fibre connectivity. The state-of-the-art infrastructure is expected to boost business productivity and innovation is expected to boost business productivity and innovation, as well as delivering millions in economic benefits, whilst giving residents access to the UK’s fastest broadband services.

Alistair Thompson, managing director of VolkerHighways, said: “We are pleased to work on these additional contracts for CityFibre in Swindon and Slough, following our current contract rolling out a full-fibre network in Ipswich. It’s great to be part of an enterprise that transforms communities’ digital experiences, by giving them faster and more reliable broadband.”

James Thomas, Director of Supply Chain at CityFibre, said: “We are delighted to be extending our collaboration with VolkerSmart Technologies in Slough and Swindon in order to support the roll-out of new future-proof Full Fibre infrastructure. We believe they are capable of being a model build partner, consistently delivering a high standard of work, and at the pace we require.

“Forging long term partnerships with successful, nimble contractors that are able to scale alongside us while being prepared to work closely with the local communities we serve is a key aim for us. VolkerSmart Technologies is a great example of this and we look forward to working with them for years to come.”

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UKIS Engage: Build, Build, Build Two Months On

On 30 June 2020, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson promised the nation he would ‘build, build, build’, saying he wanted to use the crisis caused by the Coronavirus pandemic to tackle the UK’s great unresolved challenges, and to get UK construction moving again, after it had spent 3 months locked down.

With a vision of trying to emulate the New Deal Polices of Franklin D. Roosevelt, Mr Johnson promised some of the most radical reforms to UK the UK planning system since WW2, with an acceleration of infrastructure schemes and increased funding for school buildings and hospital projects.

With a total of £4.43 billon, the value of civil engineering approvals during the three months leading to July was three times higher than that of 2019 and, with major projects totalling £3.6 billion, they were 343% higher than in 2019.

So, with the development pipeline looking healthy, and as we quickly approach the two-month mark since the PM’s speech, what has changed, and what opportunities are arising from the promises that were made?

As part of its support for construction, the UK Government wants to streamline the planning system, reducing unnecessary bureaucracy and speeding up development. Major planning reforms were introduced by the Government at the beginning of August 2020. Under these new rules, land will be designated in one of three categories:

• Growth
• Renewal
• Protection

Robert Jenrick, the Housing Secretary, said: “Land designated for growth with empower development – new homes, hospitals, schools, shops and offices will be allowed automatically.”

This means planning permissions for new housing and hospitals will automatically be granted, which will cut time for developments to proceed to site as well as cutting costs for the developer.

Areas of natural beauty and green belt will also be protected. The Government has insisted that this will allow developments to be built at a faster pace, despite some critics claiming it could lead to bad quality housing.

Boris Johnson also highlighted road projects as a key area of Government investment to get the UK moving again, and in terms of restarting work on site, this has been an area of significant progress in recent months.

According to the latest Glenigan data, road projects during the three months leading to July added up to £971 million, which is an 85% increase on 2019.

Among major road projects currently under way, Balfour Beatty has commenced on-site work at the £355 million A63 Hull improvement project they were working on pre-lockdown. Kier has also commenced on-site work at the new £150 million A585 Windy Harbour to Skippool Bypass.

The Government also gave backing to £282 million worth of improvement to Junction 6 of the M42, in May 2020. This scheme comprises of 2.4km dual carriageway link road between the A45 Clock Interchange and a new junction on the M42, with Skanska being awarded the main contract.

The Government has also committed to some major utilities schemes in recent months, which has boosted the development pipeline massively.

The backing of the £1.8 billion Norfolk Vanguard offshore windfarm has provided a big boost for the sector, and ground investigation works are now on site for a period of four months, though a main contractor is still be appointed.

The Government has also granted approval for Manson Airport during the three months leading to July. The £200 million development comprises of the re-opening of the airport, primarily as a cargo airport with a capacity of at least 12,000 air cargo movements per year. This project is yet to go out to tender.

When looking to the future, there are a number of high-value infrastructure projects that are yet to receive planning permissions, but which are waiting in the wings to commence on-site in the near future.

The £290 million A1 Morpeth to Ellingham dualling project is one of them, having submitted detailed plans, tenders have been returned on the project, with a public consultation due to be held in summer 2020.

Improvements to the A7 from North Tuddenham to Easton is one scheme which could be given the go-ahead in the not so distant future. The £153 million development is yet to be granted approval, but its anticipated to start on-site in June 2022.

Despite still being in its early stages, the Government’s ‘build, build, build’ promise is showing positive signs and is pushing projects through the pipeline, as well as driving activity. Planning changes could take some time to make any real difference, but with a solid pipeline of infrastructure projects the Government is clearly boosting confidence in the sector.

Glenigan is a partner of the UK Infrastructure Show (UKIS), the UK’s leading infrastructure and supply chain event, which explores the latest developments across the sector. This year, UKIS is going online and will be delivered as a live, online interactive event on Wednesday 9 September 2020.

More information on what you can expect from this new digital event experience can be found by visiting the UKIS website here.

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SELECT Continue to Support Members

SELECT is continuing to support its members by launching an in-depth guide for users of its popular SELECTcerts digital certification app.

The 60-page booklet, which is available digitally, includes practical information on all aspects of the service, from getting started to creating certificates and making the mot of the app’s many functions.

It has been created by SELECT Technical Adviser Neil Sim, along with input from other members of the trade association’s Technical team, the guide also features clear imagery to help users gain the maximum benefits from the service.

SELECT Director of Technical Services Dave Forrester said: “We are delighted with the new user guide, which has been created in response to specific Member feedback.

“The new guide will help Members create a full range of electronic certificates quickly and easily and assist in the creation of a client database and installation locations.

“It’s yet another way in which we continue to listen to our Members and deliver the services and support they need.”

The new guide follows on from a range of dedicated services introduced for SELECTcerts users since a new version of the app was launched in February 2020. In addition to this, the app has been updated, and features the following updates:

• Spacing added to R2 and Zs columns on circuit chart/test results
• Fix for toggle fields (e.g. polarity) showing incorrect value on test results when scrolling.
• Improvements to backup feature to assist support calls
• Fix freezing issue after inactivity on Windows and iOS (Microsoft Xamarin Forms bug/update)
• Fix issue with EICR inspection schedule tick on item 5.12 a)

Mr Forrester added: “We will continue to upgrade and improve the app over the upcoming months, reacting to feedback to create the ultimate user experience for our Members.”

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Mace Manage Brent Cross Station Project

Mace has been selected to provide project management services for the Brent Cross West Station development in North London.

The project, which is being spearheaded by Barnet Council, is part of an ambitious urban regeneration for the Brent Cross area. The plans involve the construction of a new rail station, which will be linked to the nearby Brent Cross South scheme and is set to complete by the end of 2022.

The news of Mace’s involvement in this scheme comes off the back of the construction company’s other win in the rail sector in which the firm has secured the Programme Support Office partner role on the £39 billion Northern Powerhouse Rail Scheme, which was announced in June.

At Brent Cross West, Mace has been brought in to manage a wide range of activities associated with the station’s development, including:

• Relocation of existing rail operation offices and welfare facilities
• Realignment of existing railway and creation of railway sidings
• Construction of the new five platform railway station at Brent Cross West

Taking up the role of project manager on the site, the firm will also be responsible for overseeing all planning, integration and construction, as well as the implementation of a programme controls function, securing and issuing all notices and approvals, assurance of contractor performance, and commercial and contract management.

A team of 30 Mace employees will deliver the services, and will work alongside Barnet Council, and other key partners on the scheme, including VolkerFitzpatrick.

Councillor Daniel Thomas, Leader of Barnet Council, said:

“We are pleased to be working with Mace to project manage the station programme through to completion in 2022 when the new Brent Cross West Station will connect both new and existing communities to the heart of London in under 15 minutes.”

Jason Millett, Mace’s CEO for Consultancy, said:

“With the Prime Minister calling for infrastructure to form the backbone of the UK’s economic recovery, flagship schemes like the new Brent Cross West Station are critical to proving our industry is able to deliver. Securing this role enhances Mace’s reputation as a leading consultant in the rail sector, adding to a portfolio that includes the new HS2 Euston Station, and marks another important win in our efforts to step up and meet the government’s requests.”

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Part Two of Innovation Accelerator Launched

On Monday, 17 August, HS2 Ltd launched the second tranche of recruitment to its Innovation Accelerator programme. This follows on from the overwhelming response to its first call out to tech start-ups and innovative SMEs earlier in the year.

The company behind the UK’s largest-ever transport infrastructure project is looking to recruit five more smaller firms with bright ideas in the following:

1. What is the best way people can spend time at stations before their train leave?
2. How to optimise digital solutions for building HS2 to make every second count

The five entrants that win will join the first cohort, chosen from 109 applications from the first recruitment programme, and will work on the challenges of:

• Productivity
• Environment
• The circular economy

Ideas include 3D concrete printing and using automated drone technology to assist with the planting of seven million trees along the HS2 route.

As of Monday, an online application portal will be open for a month, after which HS2 Ltd will pick five of the companies who entered to take forward on the Innovation Accelerator.

The Accelerator will provide both commercial and technical support, as well as a rent-free Birmingham-based workspace to develop their proposal.

After six months, solutions will be showcased and pitched to industry investors and HS2’s supply chain, which is made up of the thousands of suppliers.

HS2 Ltd Head of Innovation Howard Mitchell said: “We received over 100 applications from innovative tech start-ups and SMEs to join Cohort One of HS2’s Innovation Accelerator programme, which beat all our expectations.

“The level of interest underlines the opportunity that HS2 offers to some of the most innovative and dynamic young firms in the country.

“I’m therefore extremely positive about the prospects for Cohort Two, and new thinking on how we build Britain’s new high-speed rail network and enable passengers to make best use of their time in our stations. “

The Portal closes to applications on 18 September. HS2 will announce the successful enterprises in the autumn.

HS2 Ltd is a partner of the UK Infrastructure Show (UKIS), the UK’s leading infrastructure and supply chain event, which explores the latest developments across the sector. This year, UKIS is going online and will be delivered as a live, online interactive event on Wednesday 9 September 2020.

More information on what you can expect from this new digital event experience can be found by visiting the UKIS website here.

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SELECT Helps Blaze Trail with Fire Sector

The Electrical Contractors’ Association of Scotland (SELECT) has helped to shape a new Occupations Qualification Structure by the Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) industry, which will lead to Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) Card recognition.

Aimed at promoting high standards and skills, this new structure has been developed by an industry-wide working group formed by SELECT and other leading trade associations and employer representatives, including:

• British Security Industry Association (BSIA)
• FESS Employer Group
• Fire Industry Association (FIA)
• Fire & Security Association (FSA)
• Security Systems and Alarm Inspection Board (SSAIB)
• Joint Industry Board (JIB)

Uniquely recognising the introduction of the FESS Trailblazer, the new structure sets the standard for new entrants to the market at Level 3 while also addressing the need to recognise the training, experience and qualifications of the current workforce.

This new pathway recognises the differences in training, experience and qualifications for those already in the industry, which critically identifies a minimum standard for those who install and maintain fire, emergency and security systems.

Fiona Harper, Director of Employment and Skills at SELECT, said: “This new development is a significant step forward as it recognises existing professionalism and also blends upskilling and training with formal and structured assessment.

“SELECT particularly welcomes its introduction as it dovetails perfectly with our own ongoing contribution towards modernisation of the ECS in Scotland. Ensuring the FESS workforce of tomorrow has the correct qualifications with meaningful assessments also reinforces the importance of our campaign for protection of title, to ensure only properly qualified individuals build an electric future for us all.”

There are now four sector disciplines recognised by the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) in the Fire, Emergency and Security Systems (FESS) industry which include:

• Fire
• Fire and emergency lighting
• Security (Including access control, intruder and CCTV systems)
• Fire and security.

Each sector recognises three disciplines which will include Systems Operative, Systems Technician and Technical Manager, in addition to this, the occupations of Labourer, Trainee and Apprentice are also recognised by ECS.

Jay Parmar, Chief Executive of the JIB, said: “I’m delighted to have worked alongside the Fire, Emergency and Security Systems industry who collectively represent over 3,000 companies with over 80,000 employees who will benefit from the introduction of the new Occupational Qualification Structure and the new suite of ECS cards which recognise the skills of the entire FESS workforce.

“A key strength of ECS and its partnership with CSCS is that it provides assurance that cardholders working across sites in the UK have a high level of skills and experience.”

Information about the full suite of cards, together with information on the pathway-specific FESS assessments and details on how to apply for the ECS FESS cards will be available on the SJIB website in due course. Alternatively, call 0131 445 9216.

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UKIS Engage: HS2 Sign R&D Agreement

On Friday 14 August 2020, HS2 Ltd signed a ground-breaking agreement with leading research centres in UK universities to enable it to access world-leading research capabilities, knowledge and facilities, a part of its innovation programme.

This agreement with the UK Rail Research and Innovation Network (UKRRIN) will allow HS2 Ltd to be at the forefront of innovation within the rail sector, and will also help accelerate new technology and products from research into market applications on a global scale.

Along with the “3 Cs” – increasing capacity on the rail network, offering greater connectivity throughout the UK, and creating a low carbon transport alternative – building HS2 will also show off the best of British skills, innovation and engineering, and this partnership is a key example of this.

The University of Birmingham will coordinate UKRRIN activities in support of HS2 Ltd under the agreement, and support R&D across the three UKRRIN academic centres of excellence, including:

• Digital Systems (led by the University of Birmingham)
• Infrastructure (led by the University of Southampton)
• Rolling Stock (led by the University of Huddersfield)

Upon signing the agreement with UKRRIN on behalf of HS2 Ltd, the project’s Head of Innovation, Howard Mitchell, said: “HS2 is a major opportunity for British academia and UK plc to come together and meet the challenge of delivering what is a huge investment in the country’s future. The programme’s scale and longevity create the right conditions to develop solutions for High Speed 2 and also the wider rail industry – both of which are crucial in helping Britain to decarbonise.”

The first project under the new agreement is to be led by the University of Birmingham and will use simulation models in order to improve understanding of the performance of expansion joints used on high-speed rails.

Professor Clive Roberts, Director of the Birmingham Centre of Railway Research and Education (BCRRE) added:
“BCRRE works very closely with our industry partners to develop and deploy world-leading technologies onto the railway.  High speed rail is a vital part of the future of rail innovation in the UK and we’re delighted to be joining forces with HS2 to play our part in that future.”

Professor Stephen Jarvis, Head of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Birmingham, said: “By supporting HS2’s research programme we can help accelerate advances that will improve the UK’s railways through increasing capacity and decreasing the system’s carbon footprint. Through initiatives like this we can put the UK at the forefront of rail innovation and play our part in restoring the UK’s economy.”

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Bolton Council to Deliver £1bn Masterplan

The socio-economic changes that have been caused by COVID-19 have been accommodated by Bolton Council and its development partners to ensure that their delivery of the £1 billion masterplan to regeneration Bolton town centre by 2030 will be fit for purpose, according to new analysis from Deloitte.

The investor prospectus commissioned by the authority shows how its Vision 2030 programme will address the new circumstances which have been brought about by the pandemic, thus allowing the town to fulfil its potential for the next decade and beyond.

Simon Bedford, Partner at Deloitte, and Head of the Local Government Development Team said: “Bolton Council remains committed to delivering its plans for a redeveloped town centre and continues to engage with developers and investors to understand the implications of the pandemic on committed and emerging schemes within the six identified opportunity areas.”

“Local retail centres will have a role in driving future economic recovery as consumers increasingly choose to buy local, supporting local businesses and supply chains post COVID-19.”

The Deloitte study also examines how Bolton Council is working with its developer partners in order to respond to trends that affect its six landmark mixed use schemes at Trinity Quarter, Church Wharf, Crompton Place/Bolton Victoria Square, Croal Valley, Cheadle Square and the new Blackhorse Street-Bolton Digital City.

The Big Four firm also believes Bolton’s town centre schemes ‘present an opportunity for remodelling the urban environment to better meet the needs and demands of a post-COVID society.’

Cllr David Greenhalgh, Leader of Bolton Council, said: “The flexible and adaptable nature of our six mixed-use schemes, and the commitment of our developer partners, means we remain on course to deliver a transformed town centre by 2030.”

It is hoped that Bolton’s regeneration programme will have provided 1,700 homes and 4,411 full-time jobs by 2030, injecting £487.5m GVA of additional economic activity.

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Isle of Anglesey Takes Planning to Cloud

The Isle of Anglesey County Council has gone live with a new cloud-based planning and building control system. Arcus Global’s cloud-based system enables the Council to record and process all applications, notifications, and enquiries. It will provide a single source of data to drive business efficiency and will also enable remote working.

For the planning team at Anglesey Council, the software has given them the functionality to process enquiries, appeals and enforcements both quickly and easily. Likewise, the building control team are able to communicate electronically with citizens and stakeholders, and now also have the ability to manage inspection dates, in one place.

Before going live with the public portal, the Council had to consult on new planning applications by post, which meant printing out plans and all related documents. With the new system, time and money will be saved.

Elena White, Business Systems Manager at Isle of Anglesey County Council, explained: “As well as printing costs, we’d also spend a considerable amount on postage. With the portal in place we’ve saved time and cut down our costs.”

“The current restrictions to our daily work and travel have been a fantastic test for the system. The entire Council has been working from home for the past 18 weeks and our planning, building and public platforms have been working perfectly – showing our employees they can carry on as normal without being in the office. It just goes to show what a difference being cloud-based make.”

With the planning and building process online and easily accessible, it has given council employees the ability to work remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Lockdown’s taught us other way’s of working

Adrian Attwood, Executive Director at DBR Ltd., discusses how the conservation construction industry is recovering—and thriving—post shutdown

It’s fair to say the UK construction industry was significantly affected by the coronavirus pandemic, however the good news is it’s finally starting to bounce back.

The UK Construction PMI jumped to 55.3 in June 2020 from 28.9 in the previous month, with the latest reading signalling the steepest increase in construction output since July 2019. Much of this increase is down to the speed with which the construction supply chain resumed, and the efficient reopening of sites, following stoppages and business closures due to COVID-19.[1]

While the green shoots of recovery are beginning to appear, the conservation construction sector has seen mixed success. This is related to various factors, including: new health and safety procedures, the types of projects worked on, how much access workers have had to construction sites during the height of the pandemic and working remotely.

Undoubtedly, there have been many challenges for those working in construction. However, a number of companies not only weathered the storm but actually flourished during lockdown, with projects moving full speed ahead, albeit with social distancing and additional hygiene measures in place. This bodes well for the industry moving forward.

COVID-19 challenges

One of the biggest challenges faced by the conservation construction industry involves the inevitability of multiple personnel working in tight spaces, such as tunnels and crypts. Strict health and safety requirements had to be put in place to ensure worker safety.

Company procedures were revised to ensure they fell in line with updated government guidelines, and extensive discussions with clients took place so everyone was fully briefed and able to abide by the new rules.

Additional costs are another challenge as the number of workers on site has been reduced, resulting in extended programmes of work. The additional health and safety procedures has meant increasing the size of welfare units, putting management procedures in place to stagger break times, enhanced sanitation and more PPE (if it can be obtained). In fact, lack of available PPE is a persistent problem, especially face shields tailored to meet the needs of construction professionals.

A third issue is transport, which remains a major challenge. One COVID-positive case, resulting from a packed train or bus, can prove catastrophic for everyone on site. Employee health and wellbeing needs to be every construction company’s priority; just as a building can’t stay standing if its structure is weak, a construction team may not be able to work efficiently if a team member is unwell.

In terms of projects, government sites and palaces have generally taken longer to ramp back up because they needed to be particularly careful about how they proceeded during the shutdown as their primary functions would take priority over construction work. Conversely, where public buildings had lost their footfall, such as museums, the opportunity to carry out essential maintenance work without the usual constraints was immediately available.

There’s light at the end of the tunnel

While the commercial and residential construction industry took a hard hit, conservation construction saw some positives during, and as a result of, the lockdown.

One of our largest projects, Liberty London, stayed on track, as we were able to carry out the work without any interruption. For example, we could remove more windows for repair than we normally would have been permitted to, as there wasn’t anything on display to work around due to the store being closed. All merchandise could be moved from the working area.

We also used the time effectively to get the scaffolding built before losing the good weather window. This was the case with the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, the repairs of which include extensive stonework replacement and the dismantling and rebuilding of its iconic Porte Cochere columns.

Further, the shutdown has inspired, for the most part, a better work-life balance. It has shown us there is another way of doing things, and while solely working remotely isn’t effective in the construction industry, there is certainly room for it.

Lastly, business enquiry levels have remained stable for us, and for some of our services, have increased. This is most likely due to surveyors and architects finding they have more time to develop and submit documents for projects already in the pipeline. However, this will only truly be confirmed in 2021, once we revisit the status of projects that haven’t yet entered the design stage due to the pandemic.

A resilient industry

Teamwork, employee welfare checks and following government guidelines are all essential to a successful recovery. This has been a difficult time for everyone regardless of their profession, so one can imagine the struggles construction professionals have faced, whether from continuing to work on busy sites or not being able to work for a long period of time.

However, with every negative there is a positive, and this has certainly been the case in the construction industry. The challenges faced have shown contractors to be resilient, teaching them to find new ways not only to cope but to excel.

Nations need to build and repair to survive, so there will always be new construction projects. That being said, it never hurts to reflect on when times were hard and to work towards a better, brighter future.

[1] https://ift.tt/2rrEKGR

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Collaboration Lead to Success for Land & Water

Land & Water Group, a provider of wet civil engineering services, has received a honourable ‘Performance beyond Compliance’ recognition on behalf of the Considerate Constructors Scheme for its work overseeing a lakes restoration project in South Thamesmead.

On behalf of client Peabody, the Land & Water team completed environmental enhancement works on the lake at the end of June 2020, to help enhance the area as part of a wider redevelopment scheme.

The project, which was a collaborative effort between various arms of the Land and Water Group, successfully progressed over the last few months, despite the COVID-19 lockdown. Land & Water Group worked efficiently and quickly within UK Government guidelines, whilst also meeting the specific criteria including ‘Respect the Community’, ‘Protect the Environment’, ‘Secure everyone’s Safety’ and ‘Protect their Workforce’. As a result, the Considerate Contractor Scheme recognition is even more significant to the Group, which has continued to carry out essential works throughout the Coronavirus pandemic.

The project, part of Peabody’s wider regeneration plans, will see 20,000 new homes created and more jobs in the area. Along with this, it will also improve blue and green spaces in Thamesmead. Using their expertise on site, Land & Water’s team helped ensure that Southmere Lake fulfils the requirements of this project, a venture which incorporates a comprehensive 30-year plan.

Land & Water Services worked alongside Terraqua Environmental Solutions (TES) to create five floating islands, reed beds and wetlands, providing much needed habitat in the area. In turn, this has helped to encourage wildlife and improve the ecological status of the lake. These structures promise to help stabilise banks and filter out bacteria, fungi and algae, futureproofing the biodiversity of Southmere Lake. TES has also grown native wildflowers from seed to provide interest and add to the habitat created around the lake. Meanwhile, Land & Water Services has dredged material which will be used to create further reed bed areas, whilst improving navigation on the lake for boating and sailing.

Discussing this recognition and what it means to Land & Water, the project’s Site Manager, Andy Mickelburgh, said: “We have all loved working on this project. Contributing to the rejuvenation of this area and the enjoyment it will provide for years to come is something we’re very proud of.

“Every member of our Land & Water Services and TES teams have helped to make this project a success. Using our impressive fleet of plant and vast expertise, we have managed to exceed expectations during a period of adversity and all in a timely manner. To have these efforts be recognised by an accredited body is an accomplishment which the Land & Water Group values immensely. This is a true reflection of the team’s unwavering hard work and determination over what has been, for everyone, a challenging few months. As always, Land & Water has delivered excellence.”

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Mental Health in the Workplace

Dicky Lewis is director at White Red Architects, in this feature, he writes about how the COVID-19 lockdown has had an impact on the mental health of many workers within the industry.

The last few months have created numerous new pressures within society and have required the total re-evaluation of how we live and work. With many people being forced to work from home, on furlough or even losing their jobs, it has undoubtedly been a stressful period for many. In more recent times, consideration towards mental health within the workplace had become an issue that was emerging as important, but Coronavirus has accelerated it to the forefront. With the sudden and drastic changes to people’s lives, not to mention the uncertainty, mental health is an issue which many employers are being forced to address and respond to. As designers, our next challenge is how to create places that respond sensitively to the issues of mental health as the lockdown eases, as we return to the ‘new normal’ and acknowledge that things will never really be the same again.

Many of the projects my firm is working on have required us to present designs which will have a positive impact on the occupants of the building; on how they use the spaces, interact with each other and of course providing opportunities for respite during the working day.

We recently completed a fit-out for a large technology company.  The client wanted to continue the flexible working practices that lockdown had required them to adopt recently.   Their concern was that the current traditional open-plan office space could potentially inhibit staff collaboration and interaction. Through the use of collaboration spaces, delineated zones for teams and even an ambient sound strategy, we assisted in designing a space for teams to engage and employees to utilise the office in order to suit their personal working practices.

Multi-use / collaborative spaces encourage colleagues and team members to come together, discuss problems or communicate solutions. Creating spaces for open conversation can assist in minimising the build-up of stress or anxiety. Open-plan offices are commonplace, but a lot of people find this format distracting or find difficulties focussing. Collaborative space should be able to accommodate what open plan does not. As businesses re-evaluate their spatial requirements post-lockdown, implementing more collaborative spaces could be a good way of using any unused space.

Making design changes can assist in nurturing improvements such as creating healthy habits, increasing productivity by positive mood reinforcement and facilitating the reduction of stress. One of the biggest anticipated changes is how office space will be used as companies adopt flexible working strategies.

A large part of improving mental health in the workplace is engaging employees and incorporating them within the team, which is the antithesis of what remote working offers.  Therefore, the office space must be designed to allow for an improvement in collaboration and team building, especially in the more limited time frame which is likely to be spent within the office moving forward.

Consideration toward mental health and wellness in student accommodation is of utmost importance as the younger generations return to studying post-lockdown. Provision for students must extend beyond sanitisation and must address the difficulties presented by social distancing in an environment where it is imperative for students to socialise.

We recently designed a proposal for the refurbishment of a pair of 1990s student housing blocks (327 rooms, 6,300m² of accommodation) in Southampton, linked to a new pop-up pavilion space built inside a listed goods shed adjacent to the site. The buildings now need investment to optimise the offer to the student market and we were asked to explore options to create a great place for students to live and socialise in the post-lockdown period.

An opportunity for the creation of a space for socialising lay in the Grade II-listed Victorian goods shed currently used as a car park and which would provide a dedicated student pavilion including a courtyard with a piano and a projector, coworking and meeting spaces, games area, and a basketball/five-a-side pitch.

The proposals will be hugely beneficial in that they re-use an existing, historic building and one which provides permeable inside/outside space that can be adapted, moved around, and opened up, creating a variety of social spaces that are not confined to small, indoor rooms.

I am optimistic about the possibilities that design and construction can provide, positively contributing towards the creation of space that assists in reducing stresses on mental health.  There have been many lessons learnt from recent months and it is important for us build on these to promote the design of better workplaces and dwellings for the long-term welfare of the people who use them.

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Construction Industry is Ours to Shape

Lesley McLeod is Chief Executive Officer at The Association for Project Safety, in this feature she writes about how changes need to be made in the construction industry as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic

I used to work in an office but, since March, that has been my kitchen table with daily calls to check in on colleagues for both work and welfare. The Association for Project Safety [APS] has stayed out to help out.

I am also used to living alone and I am not trying to work on a complex building project or with a big firm, far less doing any – or all – of that while juggling responsibilities for shielding relatives or truculent schoolchildren.

As a result – and because I am not one for crowds and mass-gatherings – the limitations of lock-down have not presented me with any particular problems. However, as the country makes a halting, hiccoughing return to work and play, there are lessons for us all.

There is, and will remain, a need for greater planning, care and control if we are to find our way in the new normal. We must recognise how our actions have an impact and that behaving responsibly is a vital part in keeping everyone safe. The need to think before you act has not gone away: Covid-19 is dampened and not yet defeated.

But other little disasters still happen daily in construction. Some have no adverse consequences. Others echo for years through the lives of construction workers, their families and to those caught in the fall out. Yet most accidents are preventable with planning, care and control.

Recently, we have all seen examples of where self-centred attitudes get us. We have all seen scenes of crowds at pubs, on beaches and in beauty spots. The disregard for anything beyond the next drink, or towel-space on the sand, threaten the health and livelihoods of thousands risking a resurgence of coronavirus and consequent local restrictions.

Pictures from Beirut showed how, in a flash, daily life was destroyed by either incompetence or corruption. These actions – both great and small – make us realise that, where personal responsibility fails, checks and balances must be in place to prevent disasters overwhelming us all.

And construction in the UK cannot be complacent because we are not immune – just consider Grenfell.

It’s all about attitude. And it’s our values that will set us apart and will help shape our future.

The government is clearly setting much store in building the nation out of the Covid-induced economic downturn. The recent publication of the draft Building Safety Bill, as well as the promised overhaul of the planning regulations, is evidence of this for England. And the effects of both legislative changes will have ripples throughout the construction industry in the devolved administrations too.

And, be in no doubt, change is inevitable.  Frankly, I am more than a little tired of talk about getting back to normal. That’s gone. The world had moved on by the time our feet were firmly back on the ground. So, let’s take this opportunity to move to something better. The industry has a limited window of opportunity to change practices for the better, putting our own house in order while having a hand in framing the laws and regulations that will govern the future.

At the Association for Project Safety [APS] we are particularly interested in the redefined principal designer role that will come is as a result of the proposed changes. Members of the APS have in their DNA the desire, and will, to help other people help themselves.

So, we will be working with BSI helping frame what those new dutyholders look like. We believe this is vital because we cannot sit on our hands as our fate is determined by people who may lack the practical experience to turn a theoretical list of characteristics into a properly safety-focussed role.

But we do not have to wait to be told what to do about everything. We need to take responsibility for our own lives, actions and the impact they have on others. There has been much good work done already to help people return safely to work. Distancing is difficult but, in most cases, it is working well with one-way flows and enough sanitiser to drown in. People are getting used to face masks – not that that should have been such a challenge for workers supposedly used to mitigating the effects of asbestos or silica.

But the construction industry can, and should, do more. In future it should be reason enough to close down a site if there is no adequate provision for hand washing and hygiene.

The industry can’t just – and pardon the extended metaphor – throw in the towel because it is difficult. And we could do more to pre-fabricate elements of any build off-site. This would not just be faster – and thus, help attain the government’s targets for new homes – but both cheaper and safer. It’s time to embrace computer modelling and stop just BIM-ming on about it.

But there are other looming issues. There is a shortage of new architects and principal designers on the horizon. And this is without the numbers of people in the industry who are simply going to jack it all in.

We are hearing from our members that many are bringing forward their proposed retirement dates because Covid-19 has brought them to realise that life is too short, and too precious, to spend it on site or in the office if they have the wherewithal to travel the world, go down the allotment or raise a glass in the 19^th hole of their favourite golf course.

There really is life beyond construction. And the future is ours to shape. I have not worked long in construction, but I have witnessed a tendency to sit back and wait for things to come at us. We own our own destiny. It is time to step up and step out. And remember, as at the bottom of Pandora’s box, there is hope. Think back a year to the collapse of the Morandi Bridge in Genoa and remember that, with determination and hard work, it has already reopened.

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