Category Archives: Construction News

Carmarthenshire, Construction, Construction News, News

Pentre Awel Project Takes Shape with First Steel Structure

Bouygues UK and Carmarthenshire County Council have revealed the first steel structure for the landmark Pentre Awel project. This is the first of five buildings and will house education and business development.

Leaders from Carmarthenshire County Council joined representatives from Bouygues UK and local contractors Shufflebottom and Dyfed Steels to view the steel structure, which marks a significant milestone in the project.

The multi-million pound development is being delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council and is the largest regeneration scheme in south west Wales. It will bring together life science and business innovation, community healthcare and modern leisure facilities at the 83-acre Delta Lakes site on the Llanelli coastline. It is part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal (£40million) and is the largest regeneration scheme in south west Wales.

Lead contractor Bouygues UK is committed to using local subcontractors as part of its commitment to provide employment, training and skills opportunities to local people and underrepresented groups.

Dyfed Steels is providing the reinforcement bar for the project’s foundations which has 98% recycled content, and Shufflebottom is providing the structural steel for the building, which has 80% recycled content. With a commitment to the heritage of the area, the steel frame also provides the historical link to the previous industrial buildings that were located on the site. These including South Wales Tinplate Works and the Richard Thomas (Tinplate) Mills.

Pentre Awel 3.8.23 (LtR) Wesley Shufflebottom (Shufflebottom), Cllr Gareth John, Peter Sharpe (Bouygues UK), Cllr Darren Price and Ian Mills (Dyfed Reinforcements)

Peter Sharpe, Bouygues UK’s Pentre Awel Project Director, said the steel structure marks a significant part of the project.

He said: “This is a major construction milestone at Pentre Awel and an exciting one as we can really start to see the structure taking shape providing the scale of the project. Steel framing has a proven track record of providing sustainable benefits and it also offers significant cost benefits compared to alternative materials.

“For us it’s very important that we have as many local sub-contractors as possible working with us on this project and it’s great to welcome our guests from local companies Shufflebottom and Dyfed Steels to see the progress that is being made here.”

 

Cllr. Darren Price, Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council added:

“Whilst works have been progressing at pace for many months, this milestone represents the start of aboveground works. We are delighted that Carmarthenshire businesses, Shufflebottom of Cross Hands and Dyfed Steels of Dafen, are playing such a significant part in the construction of Zone 1. Their skill and expertise as two local businesses helping us deliver what will be a fantastic facility at Pentre Awel is a significant boost to the local economy. This alongside the project’s complementary programme of apprenticeships, recruitment and training, reflects the County Council’s and Bouygues UKs joint ambition to maximise opportunities for local people and businesses.”

 

As well as Shufflebottom and Dyfed Steels, other companies contracted to work on Pentre Awel include: Green4Wales, Redsix Partnership, Gavin Griffiths Group, Davies Crane hire, Dyfed Recycling Services and Owen Haulage.  Bouygues UK has opportunities for numerous trades over the next few years of the project, from those in external works to companies who specialise in internal fixings.

 

Caerphilly, Construction, Construction News, News

Mon Timber extends branch network and online offer for customers

Leading timber supplier Premier Forest Products has rebranded its Crumlin location to bring it under the Mon Timber banner.

The decision to rebrand was taken because of the strong brand recognition that Mon Timber enjoys across south Wales. On a practical level it also enables Mon Timber’s existing customers to use their accounts across a wider selection of sites more easily.

The Crumlin branch will continue to sell its current range, which will be extended to incorporate Mon Timber’s offering which includes hardwoods, flooring, doors, joinery and engineered timber.

The rebrand coincides with the launch of the new Mon Timber website. The website showcases the range of products available and links to Mon Timber’s online store, milltimberdirect.co.uk. Trade customers can access their account online so they can easily view their orders, invoices, delivery addresses and other account information, 24/7.

Mon Timber products are available to purchase online and can be collected at one of the brand’s three sites in Crumlin, Newport or Cardiff.

 

Terry Edgell, Co-founder & CEO of Premier Forest Products said, “One of the things that initially attracted us to Mon Timber was the strong brand the owners had developed over the years. This is the perfect opportunity to build on that reputation for quality and ensure that our customers continue to have access to the best possible products.

“By offering Mon Timber’s high-quality products for click and collect or delivery, our intention is to make the customer experience as streamlined and convenient as possible and we look forward to their feedback over the coming months.”

 

Premier Forest Products is engaged in the importation, processing, merchanting and wholesale distribution of timber and timber products from multiple sites across the UK.

Business News, Construction News

The Importance of High-Quality Fixings & Fasteners in Construction

In the world of construction, every detail matters. From the foundation to the finishing touches, every element plays a crucial role in ensuring the durability, safety, and longevity of a structure. One often overlooked aspect of construction is the importance of high-quality fixings and fasteners. These small components may seem insignificant, but they are the backbone of any construction project. In this article, we will explore why using high-quality fixings and fasteners is essential for successful construction projects.

1. The Role of Fixings & Fasteners in Construction

Fixings and fasteners are essential components used to join different elements of a structure together. They provide strength, stability, and structural integrity to the building. Whether it’s connecting steel beams, attaching panels, or securing electrical fixtures, fixings and fasteners play a pivotal role in holding everything together. Using inferior-quality fixings and fasteners can compromise the overall strength and stability of the structure, leading to potential safety hazards and costly repairs in the future.

2. Safety and Reliability

One of the primary reasons to prioritize high-quality fixings and fasteners is safety. Construction projects are subjected to various forces and stresses over time, including wind, seismic activity, and general wear and tear. High-quality fixings and fasteners are specifically designed to withstand these forces and maintain their structural integrity. They ensure that the structure remains safe and reliable, minimizing the risk of accidents or structural failures.

3. Durability and Longevity

Another significant benefit of using high-quality fixings and fasteners is the increased durability and longevity they provide to a structure. Cheap or low-quality fixings are more likely to corrode, degrade, or fail prematurely, leading to issues such as loosening of connections or even complete failure.

On the other hand, high-quality fixings and fasteners are made from robust materials, such as stainless steel or high-grade alloys, which offer excellent corrosion resistance and long-term performance. By using top-quality fixings and fasteners, construction projects can withstand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

4. Efficient Installation and Time Savings

In construction, time is money. High-quality fixings and fasteners are designed to be user-friendly and provide efficient installation. They often come with advanced features like self-drilling or self-tapping capabilities, allowing for faster and easier installation. By using these high-quality products, construction teams can save valuable time during the construction process, resulting in increased productivity and cost savings.

5. Compliance with Building Codes and Standards

Construction projects must adhere to strict building codes and standards set by regulatory bodies. These codes ensure the safety, quality, and sustainability of the structures being built. High-quality fixings and fasteners, such as those offered by ADA Fastfix, are specifically engineered to meet and exceed these codes and standards. Using subpar or non-compliant fixings and fasteners can result in non-compliance issues, causing delays, fines, or even legal repercussions.

 

In conclusion, the significance of high-quality fixings and fasteners in construction cannot be overstated. These small components play a vital role in ensuring the safety, reliability, durability, and compliance of a structure. From safety to longevity, efficient installation to regulatory compliance, using high-quality fixings and fasteners is a wise investment for any construction project. So, when it comes to construction, never underestimate the power of high-quality fixings and fasteners!

 

Construction, Construction News, Training & Apprenticeships

High hopes for Design Engineer Construct! as it bids for “alternative academic qualification” status

Pioneering learning programme celebrates tenth birthday in the House of Lords, amid calls for greater support from ministers, industry and universities 

The creator of Design Engineer Construct! (DEC), an innovative and successful learning programme which builds a professional talent pipeline into the construction industry, is today appealing for its qualifications to be recognised as a key academic subject for university entrance in England.

Tomorrow (Wednesday, July 5th), Class Of Your Own, the social enterprise established to support delivery of the DEC programme, celebrates ten years of nurturing young talent at an event hosted by former education minister, Lord Knight, in the House of Lords.

Although the DEC programme was launched in 2013, a number of UK universities still don’t accept it as a facilitating subject for entry into architecture, engineering and construction degree courses, despite a growing skills gap.

Alison Watson

Alison Watson, creator of DEC and founder and Chief Executive of Class Of Your Own, says: “It’s ten years since the Construction 2025 strategy set out a vision to promote the success of the UK construction sector as a sector of choice for young people.

“The strategy recommended early engagement in schools that should be consistently applied right through to further and higher education. DEC was cited as an effective solution, and it still remains one of the most respected through-school programmes a decade later, despite an ever-changing secondary education landscape.”

 

If all universities accepted DEC as a facilitating subject, thousands more young people could look forward to a bright future in an industry that desperately needs such professionals.

 

Watson adds: “The students coming through the DEC programme are outstanding. They’re seeing incredible success at university and in advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships.

“Despite the lack of consistent support and investment from governments, universities and industry, they are delivering the skills needed to exceed our country’s ambitions for a digital, zero-carbon, climate-resilient, construction industry.”

 

Thirty students will attend the House of Lords event tomorrow, each of whom represents a major DEC success story and each reinforces the need to deliver applied academic subjects in school from an early age, particularly given the focus on ‘leveling up’ educational opportunities for all children.

 

John Haylett is one of DEC’s star students. John’s background typifies those of “disadvantaged working class” pupils and especially those in coastal towns referenced in a number of recent reports. He not only excelled in his DEC studies but now works for global consultancy Atkins, was a finalist for two years running in the RICS Young Surveyor of the Year and just last month was awarded a first-class degree in Building Surveying from Anglia Ruskin University.

 

John Haylett said: “If all students were given the chances I was given, then the construction industry would have a much bigger pipeline of young people. DEC provided me not only with a future successful career but with a foundation in the job and industry that I love.”

 

A recent study by the charity Engineering UK reports that a “staggering” increase in the number of girls studying maths and physics at A level is needed to bridge engineering’s gender gap.

Graduate civil engineer Lauren Cunningham has just achieved a first through her degree apprenticeship with global engineering consultancy Sweco at Liverpool John Moores University.

Heriot-Watt University civil engineering graduate Alizah Mughal has also achieved a first in her Masters degree. Both Lauren and Alizah studied DEC at school and cite the subject as the inspiration for their careers.

Three DEC success stories from three different students from the South East and North West of England, and Scotland, with so many more across the UK and around the world.

DEC has risen above the challenges of the Department for Education’s past review of qualifications for students aged 16 and above. It was retained on the ‘high value course’ premium list to encourage delivery of subjects that are “crucial for the labour market, lead to higher wage returns and a more productive economy”.

Furthermore, DEC was spared the recent cull of Level 3 qualifications that ‘overlap’ with the government’s new T-level programmes.

DEC’s organisers hope that with the next cycle of government reforms taking shape, a new hope is on the horizon for this dynamic qualification.

From 2025, only qualifications that are “necessary, high quality and have a clear purpose” will remain an option for young people.

Watson hopes that DEC, as it is submitted this month as an ‘alternative academic qualification’ (AAQ), will bring a whole new respect to the wide range of professions in the construction industry and channel even more uptake for Built Environment degree courses and apprenticeship routes.

 

Watson finishes: “DEC is not a gimmick and it’s not a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. It’s a subject in its own right, studied all the way through school and taught by outstanding teachers.

“Our planet cannot wait for more reports and more conversations. It needs collaborative action from the world’s biggest carbon contributor, and I hope, as we celebrate ten years of incredible student outcomes – the real proof of the pudding, that government, industry and academia will now fully support Design Engineer Construct! as a most robust and highly respected route into higher education.”
—

Header image caption: DEC students from left Lauren Cunningham, John Haylett and founder Alison Watson

Construction News, Homes, News

Compare Companies reveals the most sought-after tradespeople in 2023

UK households have made more than half a million (580,920)1 searches online for local tradespeople in the first half of this year and now new research reveals the most in-demand trades across the country.

Data experts at Compare Companies, an online business that helps people find a tradesperson to compare prices for their home improvements, analysed search data from across the nation and found that plumbers are the most sought-after.

UK households have made 110,000 searches for plumbers in 2023, which represents almost a fifth (19%) of all online trade enquiries.

In fact, among the top 25 list of tradespeople in the country’s largest towns and cities, plumbers are the most coveted tradespeople with 5400 searches a month in the South, 3600 in the Midlands, 2900 in the Southwest, 1900 searches in the North and 1500 searches in Southeast alone.

The second highest search for a tradesperson online is for a Locksmith (74,000), followed by an Electrician in third (60,500), Roofers in fourth place (40,500) and Landscape Gardeners in fifth place (33,100).

More than 27,100 people often search for a Handyman and 22,200 people often search for Cleaners, Plasterers, or Tree Surgeons. Meanwhile, 18,100 people search for Joiners or Carpenters, respectively.

Andy Royle, Managing Director of Compare Companies, explains: “Thousands of people have turned to professional tradespeople this year to help them turn their home improvement visions into a reality.

“At Compare Companies, we’ve seen a natural increase of 10% in quotes for tradespeople compared to last year, so there’s definitely a rise in demand for home improvement services despite the cost-of-living crisis.

“It’s interesting to see where the most sought-after skills are right now. Overall, we’ve seen the most demand for plumbers and electricians and we put that down to them being available for home emergencies and necessary fixes that won’t wait.”

The most in-demand trades across the UK are:

The most in-demand trades in the UK

# Trade Average UK searches Jan-May 2023 Percentage of all searches for tradespeople
1.       Plumber near me 110,000 19%
2.       Locksmith near me 74,000 13%
3.       Electrician near me 60,500 10%
4.       Roofer near me        40,500 7%
5.       Landscape gardener near me 33,100 6%
6.       Handyman near me 27,100 5%
7.       Cleaner near me 22,200 4%
8.       Plasterer near me 22,200 4%
9.       Tree surgeon near me 22,200 4%
10.   Joiner near me 18,100 3%
11.   Carpenter near me 18,100 3%
12.   Pest control near me 18,100 3%
13.   Chimney sweep near me 14,800 3%
14.   Architect near me 14,800 3%
15.   Painter and decorator near me 14,800 3%
16.   Tiler near me 14,800 3%
17.   Gas engineer near me 12,100 2%
18.   Structural engineer near me 12,100 2%
19.   Gutter cleaner near me 9,900 2%
20.   Blacksmith near me 5,400 1%
21.   Interior designer near me 5,400 1%
22.   Welder near me 5,400 1%
23.   Stonemason near me 4,400 1%
24.   Quantity surveyor near me 480 0.1%
25.   CCTV installer near me 440 0.1%
1Total Combined Searches: 580,920  

 

Methodology: SEMRush Search Volume data was analysed between January to May 2023 – comparing search volumes for the top 25 tradespeople over the first half of the year to date.

Cardiff, Construction, Construction News, News

Continued success for Welsh fabricator with quartet of new education sector contracts

CARDIFF-based fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium has secured four projects in the education sector which will benefit students of all ages from primary school to university.

The fabricator will be working alongside Andrew Scott Ltd on Ysgol Gynradd Groes-wen Primary School in Cardiff. When completed, the school will feature contemporary architecture and a range of amenities accessible to the public.

With 420 primary school places and an additional 96 part-time nursery places, the school will be the first of its kind in the city to provide a dual language education stream, offering both Welsh medium education and English and Welsh dual-language education.

Dudley’s will install Metal Technology System capped curtain walling, doors and windows on the build, as well as automatic doors, louvres and an entrance canopy.

The fabricator will also work with Andrew Scott on the refurbishment of St David’s 6th Form College in Cardiff, installing Metal Technology System capped curtain walling, casement windows and doors plus automatic entrance doors and double glazed units with integral blinds.

In Pontyclun, Dudley’s will support Morgan Sindall Construction Ltd with the extension of Y Pant Comprehensive School, installing Kawneer capped curtain walling, doors and windows.

The fabricator’s fourth education sector project will be a complete window and door replacement for Cardiff University’s School of Healthcare Sciences which will be located on a single site adjacent to the University Hospital of Wales.

The project aims to provide the best possible learning environment for the rapidly growing numbers of students through increased space for teaching and facilitating immersive simulated educational spaces on a larger scale.

Teaming up with ISG Construction Ltd, Dudley’s will install Metal Technology System capped curtain walling, doors and windows on the build, as well as automatic entrance doors and fire rated windows and doors.

Colin Shorney, Managing Director at Dudley’s Aluminium, said: “We are delighted to have secured these four projects to support students across south Wales. Each project will provide enhanced learning environments, helping to maximise opportunities for students at every stage of their education.”

 

Since 1993, Dudley’s Aluminium has offered clients full in-house design and production facilities, completing many successful and prestigious projects within the education, health, commercial, retail, residential and defence sectors throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

Dudley’s reputation for quality has been recognised with several industry-related accreditations. The company is CHAS accredited, Constructionline registered and BM Trada certified to manufacture enhanced security products to align with PAS24:2016 and BS 4873.

Construction, Construction News

What Is OSB3? 5 Things To Know

When it comes to construction materials, OSB3 is a popular choice. But what exactly is it? And why should you consider using it?

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of OSB3 and provide five key points you need to know before deciding. We’ll dive into what OSB3 is and why it’s becoming a popular choice for residential and commercial construction projects. 

Let’s get into it! 

 

What Is OSB3 Made From? A Material Breakdown

OSB3 stands for ‘oriented strand board’ – an engineered wood product made from compressed and glued wood strands. It is readily available from most UK building material suppliers, such as MGM Timber. 

It is composed of flakes or chips placed in alternating layers to form boards with durability and strength similar to plywood. The strands used in OSB3 come from fast-growing trees such as spruce, fir, pine, and larch. 

These woods have high resin content, which helps create strong bonds between the individual pieces when pressed together under immense pressure. 

Due to its excellent load-bearing capacity, this process creates an extremely dense yet lightweight material ideal for construction projects like roofing and flooring. Additionally, OSB3 provides good insulation properties making it perfect for use in hot and cold climates. 

Its uniform composition also makes cutting into regular shapes easier than other types of lumber. Overall, OSB3 is a great choice for any project where strength and stability matter most.

 

Strength And Durability: Why OSB3 Excels

OSB3 is an engineered wood panel that’s built to last. 

The panel has excellent load-bearing capabilities to handle heavy loads without sagging or buckling. It is also highly water resistant and more resistant to natural decay like fungi due to its coating. 

The panels also have good fire resistance, making them suitable for construction where there is the potential risk of fire exposure. Finally, OSB3 is extremely durable; this material will last for decades when properly installed and maintained.

Because of these qualities, OSB3 makes an ideal choice for various applications, including flooring underlayment, wall sheathing, roof decks, furniture components and more. Its strength and durability make it the perfect solution for any project requiring long-lasting performance.

 

Applications Of OSB3: Versatility At Its Best

OSB3 is an environmentally responsible structural board combining strength, durability, and affordability. It has a wide range of uses in residential, commercial and industrial applications. Here are some of the key reasons why OSB3 is a versatile building material:

  • It’s strong enough for flooring or wall sheathing, providing superior protection against moisture damage.
  • It can be used for roof decking, which provides greater load-bearing capacity than other building materials like plywood.
  • Due to its ability to resist shrinkage and swelling over time, OSB3 can be used in outdoor projects such as decks and fences without compromising quality or aesthetics. 
  • Its uniformity makes it ideal for furniture manufacturing or cabinetry making, where consistency is important.
  • Because of its lightweight properties, OSB3 can be easily cut into strips to form intricate patterns – perfect for decorative accents around the home!

In short, OSB3 is an incredibly versatile product that offers stability and affordability for all kinds of construction projects. Whether you’re looking for flooring material or something more creative like patterned walls – this structural board will not disappoint.

 

Choosing The Right OSB3: Factors To Consider

Choosing the right OSB3 can be a daunting task, and there are many factors to consider when choosing the most suitable product for your project or application. Here are five things to know about selecting an OSB3 board:

1) Density is one of the main considerations when looking at different types of boards. The higher the density, the greater strength and stability you get from each sheet. It would help if you also looked at moisture resistance levels; some products may not be durable enough in wetter climates.

2) Look out for ratings such as fire performance, structural suitability and load-bearing capabilities – these will better indicate how well it will perform under certain conditions. This information can usually be found on manufacturers’ websites or data sheets.

3) Different sizes and thicknesses vary according to what type of job you’re doing – make sure you understand what size/thickness is required before making a purchase.

4) Don’t forget to check whether there’s any warranty associated with the product, too – this could save time and money if something unexpected happens further down the line!

5) Lastly, price shouldn’t necessarily dictate which product you go for, but cost-effectiveness is always important, so don’t neglect to compare prices between suppliers either.

It pays to do thorough research before buying any building materials, especially those used in constructing larger structures like houses or commercial buildings. 

Doing so increases the chances that you’ll select an appropriate product that meets all your needs while avoiding potentially costly mistakes later on down the line.

 

Common Misconceptions About OSB3: Debunking The Myths

OSB3 has been widely misunderstood, and several things need to be clarified. To begin with, the idea that OSB3 is only suitable for outdoor use is false; it can be used indoors and outdoors. 

Moreover, many people believe that OSB3 requires more maintenance than other materials, but this is different – in fact, it’s easy to maintain as long as you follow a few simple steps. 

Another common misconception is that OSB3 cannot absorb sound or reduce noise levels; however, this isn’t true either – its acoustic insulation properties make it a great choice for any setting where sound needs to be reduced. 

Finally, some assume that because it’s made from wood chips and glue, OSB3 must look cheap and unattractive; yet, when finished properly, it looks like any other type of wood panelling.

 

In Conclusion, 

In conclusion, OSB3 is a great choice for construction and other applications. Its versatility makes it suitable for all kinds of projects from flooring to wall coverings. 

We hope that this article has helped to answer the question ‘what is OSB3?’ and given you some ideas as to what you could do with it. What will you build first?

 

Construction, Construction News, Employee Engagement, News

Record high levels of commitment and engagement for construction workers compared to other industries

  • The industry has the top Engagement Index Score at 77% compared with 71% across other sectors
  • Construction workers feel 17% more positive about working at their organisation than others
  • ‘Committed’ is the most selected positive emotion for this sector with 45% of employees choosing this answer
  • Insight from over 60,000 employees in the construction sector

The construction industry has the highest Engagement Index Score in comparison to other sectors, according to the latest research from Inpulse, experts in employee engagement.

Over 60,000 construction employees have been surveyed. Their responses revealed that they are more engaged than employees from the retail, transport, education, finance, recruitment, legal, healthcare and technology sectors. Employees in the construction industry have an Engagement Index Score of 77%, in comparison to an average of 71% across the other sectors.

In addition, when asked how positive they felt about their employers, construction workers scored 17% higher than the other industries. In fact, 63% of construction workers feel positive about their workplaces, with the most selected positive emotions being committed, valued and happy. Only 16% feel negatively selecting irritated, frustrated and stressed.

Jodie Harrison, Insights Consultant at Inpulse, said:

“Historically, construction has been a very operations-focused industry. However, these scores reflect the sector’s devotion towards making a transformational change to improve employee engagement and experience. Looking after people and connecting with teams is now given the same respect and investment as other business-critical topics such as safety. We see buy-in from execs and senior leaders, where focusing on employee engagement generates a higher Return-on-Investment (ROI) than focussing solely on profit.”

Breaking the numbers down further, 76% of construction workers felt they had an opportunity to share their ideas to improve the business compared to the average of 58% amongst other sectors. Moreover, 75% would recommend their company as a great place to work compared to an average of 66%.

The industry only scored lower when asked about effective collaboration between departments (61% vs an average of 65%) and long-term career opportunities (57% vs an average of 58%).

Harrison explains:

“Workload-related stress is an ongoing issue facing most organisations, but in industries with a dispersed workforce, like construction, this stress is surpassed by irritation. Outdated systems and processes impact how people work together, resulting in poor cross-team collaboration. This can result in workplace silos which cause delays, inefficiencies and hinder the ability of the business to operate as one.”

Harrison continues:

“Ensuring people can see a path to continue their career within their organisation is crucial to retaining talent and building a skilled workforce. In this sector, where changing projects or work locations is the norm, sharing the work pipeline and what it means for each individual is critical to avoid anxiety and fears around job security, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. Despite this, construction is an industry where people enjoy their jobs, as opposed to office-type positions where we have seen the rise of quiet quitting, for instance.

“Fortunately, with high levels of commitment still intact, construction organisations can prevent negativity from spreading by looking at ways to modernise technology, facilitate positive colleague interactions and show that they are listening to people’s feedback and feelings, particularly during times of change and uncertainty”, concludes Harrison.

Business, Business Mergers, Acquisitions & Partnerships, Business News, Construction, Construction News, North of England

MBO at multidiscipline construction company fuels turnkey ambitions

Multidisciplinary construction company the Beech Group (John Beech Limited) has announced the successful completion of a Management Buyout that will fuel the business’s focussed growth and turnkey service delivery plans, a deal advised on by the GS Verde Group.

 

Established September 1963, John Beech Limited has experienced significant change over the years, as methods and legislation both influenced ‘smarter’ and ‘safer’ working. Beech Group even had the privilege of undertaking works with the late Fred Dibnah, when a pint and demolition went hand in hand – though nowadays it is a cup of tea and biodiesel (HVO).

 

Set to celebrate their 60th year of trading in September, the Birkenhead-based Group has developed a wide range of services including demolition, scaffolding, geotechnical, asbestos surveying and removal, mechanical and electrical installation, and construction design management. The business’s clients come from a variety of sectors and include the likes of Land Rover, Stellantis – Vauxhall, Essar Oil UK – Stanlow, and Alder Hey NHS.

 

The MBO, led by Gareth Vaughan, will allow the company to begin to fulfil their focussed growth and turn-key service delivery plans, building upon a long and established reputation, in the commercial, industrial, automotive, and petrochemical sectors.

 

Since joining John Beech Limited in May 2021, Gareth has enabled the business to go beyond historic trading, from a £5-6m turnover, to over £12m 2022/2023, and from an historical average EBIDTA of £500k to £2.5m 2022/2023. The business is set to continue on this upward trend.

 

Managing Director of John Beech Limited, Gareth Vaughan commented: “The Beech Group has a well-established, experienced team in place to deliver some of the most hazardous services to new and continually valued clients. We are committed to the continued delivery of our specialist services to identify, manage, control and reduce and remove hazards, whilst protecting clients, their employees, and their brand reputation.”

Sellers Philip Jordan and Christopher Wainwright have supported the management team, providing them with an opportunity to take full control of the business with financial backing from SME Capital.

Said Philip Jordan: “We would like to thank all those involved who made the MBO possible. Gareth has been an integral part of the Beech Group, utilising his broad skillset and knowledge to expand and further develop our services and we look forward to seeing the business flourish under his leadership.”

 

Multidiscipline dealmaking experts GS Verde Group advised throughout every aspect of the transaction, including the financial analysis and forecasting, valuation, funding arrangements and legal structuring.

Construction, Construction News, News, Wales

Welsh Fabricator returns to Cambridge for innovative project

WELSH fabricator Dudley’s Aluminium has secured another project at Babraham Research Campus in Cambridge.

Dudley’s will be working with SDC Builders Ltd on the B960 building, a new 54,000 square foot multi-tenanted laboratory building with associated car parks, landscaping and servicing. The building is designed to be constructed to the BREEAM Excellent standard.

Kawneer curtain walling with feature face caps and commercial doors will be installed by the fabricator, as well as a revolving door for the main entrance and fire rated curtain walling and doors.

Babraham Research Campus provides high quality, flexible and sustainable laboratory and office accommodation for existing and new life sciences companies. The campus facilitates companies with innovative research to scale rapidly.

 

Colin Shorney, Managing Director of Dudley’s Aluminium, said: “We are delighted to be returning to Cambridge for our third project at the Babraham Research Campus. This will be a fantastic addition for bioscience and life sciences businesses in the area looking to grow and develop.”

 

Since 1993, Dudley’s Aluminium has offered clients full in-house design and production facilities, completing many successful and prestigious projects within the education, health, commercial, retail, residential and defence sectors throughout the UK and Channel Islands.

Dudley’s reputation for quality has been recognised with several industry-related accreditations. The company is CHAS accredited, Constructionline registered and BM Trada certified to manufacture enhanced security products to align with PAS24:2016 and BS 4873.