Category Archives: Construction News

Construction, Construction News, News

JDP has ‘Grand Designs’ on growth after record-breaking year

Ambitious residential designs, healthcare projects, community buildings and a Grand Design that featured on a TV show hosted by Tinie Tempah have helped a Bridgnorth architects practice post its best-ever year.

Johnson Design Partnership (JDP) has seen appointments rise significantly by 30% over the last twelve months and currently has more than 130 live contracts under management as clients explore inventive design and a more personal service.

Architects at the Station Lane firm have also identified its ability to deliver complex work that peers often turn away and its recent Paragraph 70 approval that was granted without the need for appeal – one of the first in the UK to get through.

JDP, which has also been behind the redevelopment of Bishop Percy’s House in Bridgnorth, has taken on three new staff to cope with demand, including an experienced architect and two senior technicians who bring with them significant expertise in key markets.

Vic Johnson, Founder of Johnson Design Partnership, commented: “We’ve always tried to be different to your large, city centre practices, preferring to listen to what the client wants rather than forcing the latest design trend on them.

“This has really paid off, whether it is working for a couple who are transforming their property, a refurbishment of a school or creating a new multi-use space at one of the UK’s largest hospitals. It’s about understanding their brief and using our design skills and knowledge of new materials and technology to create something that excites and is fit for purpose.”

He went on to add: “Covid-19 was really busy as I think a lot of people focused on making improvements to their home, mainly because they spent so much time in them. Then, as soon as lockdown eased, a lot of stalled projects came back online with a vengeance. At the last look, we’re managing 130 jobs.”

Johnson Design Partnership hit the headlines last year when it was chosen by production company Avalon to be featured in its Extraordinary Extensions series on Channel 4.

The programme, which was hosted by rapper Tinie Tempah, charted the progress of Evenhay Farm near Ludlow, a stunning £250,000 ‘angular’ conversion of a three-bed Grade II listed cottage and barn, featuring a new glass fronted annexe and glazed walkway.

Alan Harris and Lynda Hall decided to move back to the area from Nottingham and had the vision to work with Alan Harris senior to turn the family home into a place which they could all live in and enjoy the stunning views.

They turned to JDP for expert advice on initial designs, feasibility studies and securing planning, with the architect working with Hayward Construction to turn the dream into a reality.

Matt Spinks, Director, went on to add: “Our Grand Designs and work with the Paragraph 70 house was already provoking a lot of conversation, but the Channel 4 show really catapulted us into the limelight.

“It was arguably the most successful project featured on the programme and proved how you can use new design techniques and materials to open a truly stunning location with unique views. The phone and inbox haven’t stopped since and we’re looking to make the next twelve months even more successful.”

Johnson Design Partnership, which now employs nine people at its Bridgnorth office, offers a complete project management service from feasibility work and planning to detailed design, project monitoring and contract administration.

It has recently invested in the latest 3D design software and management systems, as well as embarking on a social media campaign to showcase its vast array of successful projects.

 

Construction, Construction News, News, North of England

Roann Limited secures South Yorkshire development contract with Barratt Homes

Wakefield-based granite and quartz worktop supplier, Roann Limited, has been selected as the exclusive kitchen worktop supplier for the David Wilson Homes, Penning Ridge housing development in South Yorkshire.

The national housebuilder, David Wilson Homes, is part of the Barratt Developments PLC Group and selected Roann Limited to supply 400 houses with the Consentino Silestone range as part of a worktop upgrade option for house buyers. 

Surrounded by stunning countryside, the Penning Ridge housing development will feature both three and four-bedroom luxury homes and is located in a highly-sought after location in the heart of South Yorkshire, in Penistonne.

Residents will be able to benefit from a great range of local amenities and easily access major towns and cities with the M1, located just three miles away. 

Roann Limited has previously worked alongside David Wilson Homes but this project marks the first within the Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes Sheffield region. 

Speaking about the project, Scott Wharton, the Sales Director at Roann Limited said: “As a Yorkshire based business, we are excited to be working on a Yorkshire-based project. Penning Ridge is located near the beautiful Penistone countryside and we are delighted that Roann Limited was selected for this project. Residents will be able to upgrade and select from a range of quality Consentino Silestone worktop colours and styles to suit their new kitchen. We have over 30 years of experience in supplying quartz worktops and we thoroughly enjoy transforming kitchen spaces by supplying a selection of kitchen worktops and splashbacks.” 

Construction News, News

A Glazing Guide: Glass Types & What They are Used For

When you are in the midst of a renovation, structural glass glazing is probably not at the top of your list of exciting projects, but it is an essential aspect, as it ensures your project is as airy and light as possible.

It is also essential to get your glazing right, as it will have a major impact on the warmth of your home, which will have a significant influence on your heating costs.

Regardless of whether it’s an internal door, a glass extension, or windows for your home, it is essential to consider what type of glazing you should use.

This article will look at the different glass types on offer and what they are used for so that you can pick the right option for you.

What Types of Glazing are There?

In total, there are so many types of glazing to choose from, and each one will offer different benefits for your project. Toughened glass is a great option for any glass that you anticipate will have plenty of contact. Laminated glass is ideal for preventing breakages, and soundproof glass is perfect for busy, noisy areas.

Ultimately, whichever one you choose will depend on your needs.

The Different Types of Glass Options Available

There are plenty of modern design ideas that involve using glass in various forms, but it is essential to use the correct glass for each project, or you risk having a structurally inefficient or dangerous result.

Toughened Glass

Toughened glass is frequently used on systems and products as standard due to the fact that it offers a more durable option than normal float glass. Toughened glass is ideal for any project where you anticipate the glass aspect will undertake heavy contact.

When glass gets knocked into or bumped regularly, you want to ensure it is as robust as possible.

Laminated Glass

Another glass type to consider for your project is laminated glass. Laminated glass is a fantastic option for roof or overhead glazing. The reason it is so popular in these instances is that the lamination ensures the glass stays in place even if there is a breakage.

So instead of the glass roof falling in on itself and causing damage or harm, laminated glass will keep the glass in place until you are able to fix it.

Low Maintenance Glass

Another option available to you is low-maintenance glass, which is an excellent option for coastal projects or hard-to-reach areas. Essentially, this glass is the right choice for any project where salt deposits found in the air can settle on your glass.

The low-maintenance glass option allows you to implement a smooth surface that particles struggle to settle on.

Solar Controlled Glass

Solar control glass is used frequently for any residential extensions or new build projects that require south-facing glazing. It is also frequently used for large elevations of glass that could potentially overheat internal living spaces if another glass type was used.

Solar-controlled glass coatings can reduce how much shortwave radiation can move through the glass panel, which also lowers the increased heat levels. This glass type can save you plenty of money on cooling and heating costs.

Low E Glass

The term Low E glass refers to glass that has low e-coatings and low emissivity. The coatings get used to lower the heat a glazing unit can take in.

These low e-coatings get applied to almost all insulated glazing units and improve the thermal performance of the glass, which is great for your energy bills.

What are Single, Double, and Triple Glazing Glass Types Used for?

Single glazing consists of one glass pane, which offers no thermal or insulation support. However, this also makes single glazing the cheapest option available, and it is extremely easy to repair.

Double glazing is much more energy-efficient as the glass holds the heat, and triple glazing is the most expensive option and offers the most thermal and insulation support.

Double Glazing is Better for Heating Costs

While single glazing offers zero insulation, double glazing provides a full thermal break and a gas-filled cavity to build highly insulated rooms and keep the heat in.

Single-glazed external windows will leave you needing constant heating for your home, whereas double-glazing will offer support with your heating and reduce your heating costs.

Certain glass has Soundproof Qualities

Another glass type that often gets used is acoustic reduction glass, which can be used within glazing to lower noise pollution, which is ideal in densely populated areas.

This specialist acoustic reduction glass captures the sound and stops it from travelling inside the home.

 

 

Charity & CSR, Construction News, News

Covers employee braves the shave and raises over £7,500 for charity following her own cancer diagnosis

An employee from Covers Timber & Builders Merchants in Chichester has raised over £7,500 for Cancer Research UK, following her own breast cancer diagnosis in March of this year.

Gina Trusler, Administration Manager at Covers head office in Chichester, underwent a mastectomy earlier this year and took the decision to shave off her hair before losing it due to chemotherapy treatment. After being contacted by a friend who said she was going to ‘brave the shave’ by also shaving her own hair, Gina set up the Bald Babes for Breast Cancer fundraising initiative, which has so far raised £7,532.

Gina commented:

“Being open about my diagnosis and sharing my own story has enabled others going through cancer to contact me, including some of my lovely friends. Offering others help and support whilst they are going through their own journey and fundraising for Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research has helped me feel like I am giving something back. The support I have around me is overwhelming.”

Cancer Research UK is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in 2022, although its history dates back 120 years under various names and the merging of organisations. The charity’s main aim is to progress towards a world where everybody can lead longer and better lives, free from the fear of cancer. Cancer Research UK receives no government funding, so it relies on a network of supporters like Gina to fundraise and help it invest in and undertake research.

Sarah Verity from Cancer Research UK added:

“The fantastic amount of money that Gina has raised so far, including gift aid, could cover the cost of running one of our research groups at the Cambridge Institute for a day.

“The Cambridge Institute is home to 16 research groups and brings together the leading scientists, doctors and nurses across the city to push forward improvements in diagnosis and treatment. In particular, the Cambridge Institute focuses on breast, lung, ovarian, pancreatic, oesophageal, blood and prostate cancer. As Gina’s fundraising is for breast cancer research, the donation will likely go to one of our current research groups.”

Henry Green, Managing Director of Covers, said:

“We’re all so proud of Gina for not only the amazing amount of money she has raised for such a fantastic charity, but also the strength and positivity she has shown during her treatment. As part of Covers funding scheme which we launched in 2019, we have pledged £1,000 to Bald Babes for Breast Cancer to show our support.”

Donations can be made to Gina’s Bald Babes for Breast Cancer fundraising campaign by visiting https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/gina-g-and-the-bc.

Construction, Construction News, News

Winvic Breaks Ground in Milton Keynes to Construct Four Sustainable Industrial Facilities for PLP

While the delivery of the civils and infrastructure contract for PLP at South Caldecotte, Milton Keynes is ongoing until June 2023 – comprising S278 and earthworks – Winvic Construction Ltd has now been appointed by the developer to construct the first four industrial facilities at PLP MK and has celebrated with a ground-breaking ceremony.

The leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects was awarded the contract due to its knowledge of delivering projects with sustainability at their heart. Winvic will deliver the facilities as Net Zero Carbon in construction and there is an opportunity for tenants to achieve Net Zero Carbon in operation.

Unit 1 – 203,200 sq ft, 18-metre haunch height with 14,900 sq ft of two-storey office space

Unit 2 – 155,000 sq ft, 18-metre haunch height with 11,500 sq ft of two-storey office space

Unit 3 – 293,600 sq ft, 18-metre haunch height with 14,700 sq ft of two-storey office space

Unit 4 – 131,600 sq ft, 15-metre haunch height with 13,200 sq ft of two-storey office space

In addition, 17-acres of lowland meadows and 3.8 kilometres of pedestrian and cycle ways – integrated into the MK Red Way cycle network – will be created at park of the project. Handover of the first unit is scheduled for February with final completion by the end of June 2023.

Winvic will be delivering the project as Net Zero Carbon and in line with the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) Net Zero Buildings Framework. It is already realising PLP’s sustainability goals by acting on its research to source quality, reduced carbon intensive materials, using green suppliers and sourcing local materials and appointing local labour. Robust Carbon measurement tools are being utilised in the design and operational planning processes and any minimal residual carbon following carbon reduction measures on the PLP MK project will be offset, focusing on a split across ecology, social value and renewables.

PLP’s commitment to deliver all its new speculative developments as Carbon Net Zero includes targeting an EPC A rating, a minimum BREEAM certification of ‘very good’ and utilising low carbon concrete and steel where possible; each unit’s roof at PLP MK in Milton Keynes, has been designed to hold up to 100% PV panels, which helps tenants to achieve Carbon Net Zero operations. Winvic will be constructing the four facilities with low carbon concrete, cladding and steel.

 

Winvic’s Head of Industrial, Distribution and Logistics, Danny Nelson, said “We have worked in partnership with PLP on previous schemes and we are also continuing to deliver the S278 and infrastructure works across the 135-acre site at South Caldecotte. I’d like to thank the PLP team for putting their trust in us once more, seeing our commitment to realising clients’ Carbon Net Zero aims and engaging us to deliver these four industrial facilities totalling 838,000 sq ft. We have been working hard together during the pre-construction and design stages to ensure we find desired carbon savings at every turn and for the buildings to be sustainable in the long-term for the benefit of the occupiers. This is our second industrial project currently located in the Milton Keynes area and we look forward to reaching safe completion in June 2023.”

 

Edward Jackson from PLP, added: “PLP are wholly focussed on the delivery of a best in class, customer focused Net Zero Carbon business park. This ambitious target is being achieved through smart design, well considered social amenity and uncompromised specification.  For PLP, Winvic’s proved track record and highly professional team are the perfect delivery partner for the Infrastructure and Units 1 to 4 and we look forward to welcoming our first customers in early 2023.

 

For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk.

Construction, Construction News, Yorkshire

Winvic Awarded Emergency Bridge Repair Project Under National Highways SDF

Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of multi-sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been given its first contract within National Highways’ new Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF). Routine investigations to the M62 Ouse Bridge, located between Goole and Howden in Yorkshire – or between junctions 36 and 37 of the M62 – identified a partial failure of a joint on the eastbound carriageway. Therefore, Winvic has been appointed as one of the organisations on the SDF undertaking temporary and then permanent repairs on the structure and highway.

It was discovered that increased vibration from traffic had started to damage the concrete under lane three and a bridge joint, which allows the carriageway to expand and contract with the weather. A contraflow was immediately put into place, reducing traffic on the eastbound carriage to one lane, to allow temporary works to begin, while a series of overnight road closures during the week commencing 13 June facilitated a second eastbound traffic lane to open on Saturday 18 June minimising disruption to road users.

Winvic installed temporary metal bridging plates across parts of the eastbound carriageway, which enabled a further eastbound lane and the eastbound exit slip road at junction 37 to be reopened on Friday 8 July.

Winvic has employed its ‘one-team’ approach and is working closely with a number of National Highways project partners; Jacobs is designing the repairs, traffic management is being led by Amey and Winvic, along with specialist Contractor VSL, is heading the joint repair and replacement. Together the companies are currently working on the complex design process required to replace all eight joints across both carriageways towards a solution that reduces the need for full closures in the future as much as possible. Temporary bridging plates have been installed over the damaged bridge joints as a temporary mitigation measure, and a second set will be added this autumn. The two most critically damaged joints on the eastbound carriageway will be replaced by spring 2023 and the project will be fully complete in Autumn 2023.

Winvic won its place on the National Highways SDF in September, along with 49 other contractors that will deliver £3.6 billion of road renewal works on England’s motorways and trunk roads over the next six years.

Rob Cook, Winvic’s Director of Civils and Infrastructure, commented: “We have been working hard with National Highways and the Yorkshire North East region to mobilise the Scheme Delivery Framework since we were awarded our place on it in September, so we were able to mobilise rapidly on this project on the M62 Ouse Bridge to begin the necessary immediate temporary works. We put multiple interfaces in place with the National Highway team and the other project partners, so we could work as one-team, towards one-goal with safety as the ultimate priority.

“The surfacing and bridging plate works have met programme expectations, meaning road users have been able to go back to using multiple carriageways and the programme is in place to install more plates this Autumn; while the priority always must be safety, it’s also crucial that disruptions to people’s journeys is minimised as quickly as possible and negate the need for full road closures as much as possible. Once the permanent solution has been fully designed and fabricated, we will undertake these permanent works, facilitating the long-term safe use of the Ouse Bridge.”

Members of the public can keep up to date about the project and any related traffic disruption, by visiting https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-work/yorkshire-and-north-east/m62-ouse-bridge/.

Phil Jepps, National Highways Programme Delivery Manager, added: “The temporary repair work around the bridge joint and the permanent replacement of all eight joints on the Ouse Bridge is a very complex project. To complete this as quickly, safely and effectively as possible, it’s important we work with outstanding partners who share our commitment to working towards the highest possible standards. We would like to thank Winvic and our other partners on the Scheme Delivery Framework for their ongoing support to keep traffic moving safely while completing the vital resurfacing and bridging plate work.”

For more information on essential safety work taking place on Ouse Bridge, visit the National Highways dedicated web page for the bridge https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/yorkshire-and-north-east/m62-ouse-bridge/ or follow National Highways Yorkshire on Facebook.

Winvic will be attending the Highways UK event at The NEC, Birmingham, on 2 and 3 of November 2022 – find them at exhibition stand number E6 or contact the firm to pre-book a meeting.

For more information on Winvic, the company’s latest project news and job vacancies please visit www.winvic.co.uk.

Construction, Construction News, News, North of England

From footballer to a career in construction

Alsager’s Shaun Miller has swapped the football pitch for a building site in Congleton, embarking upon a brand new career aged 34.

Having enjoyed a fulfilling career as a professional footballer playing for Crewe Alexandra, Sheffield United, Coventry City FC and Bolton Wanderers, Shaun was well aware that his time with the beautiful game was coming to an end.  Having been interested in construction whilst at school he started to make enquiries regarding roles in construction locally.

Bellway North West, who are currently building one, two, three, four and five bedroom homes at Somerford Gate on Black Firs Lane in Congleton, immediately saw potential in Shaun and enlisted him on its apprentice scheme on a three month trial basis.

Having successfully impressed Bellway during this initial period, Shaun was taken on by the housebuilder on a permanent basis and is a trainee assistant site manager at Somerford Gate, just 20 minutes from his home.

Shaun says: “I knew I would need to change career paths as my football career came to an end and so I approached a number of North West-based housebuilders to see what opportunities they could offer me.

“Bellway responded with a really strong apprenticeship scheme that incorporated training and NVQs, alongside working full time on site.  I am loving working on site.  As a footballer I spent a lot of time outdoors training and playing matches, so being in the fresh air is great.  I was mentally ready for a change so this experience is new and exciting for me and I am enjoying every second.

“The training is superb and I am looking forward to achieving some qualifications and in due course, furthering my construction career with Bellway.  I have my sights set on an assistant site manager role next, before progressing to site manager in time, and who knows, even further!”

 

Ian Hopkins, construction director at Bellway North West, adds: “Bellway’s apprenticeship scheme is ideal for someone like Shaun looking for a career change, as no prior experience is required and we provide on-site experience, full training and educational opportunities, with future job progression very much in mind.  Shaun has proved himself to be a hard working, committed construction professional in just a few short months and we are thrilled to have him part of the Bellway team.”

Shaun concludes: “Construction is an excellent industry to get into as housing demand remains high across the UK.  Apprenticeship and trainee schemes are a brilliant way to start a brand new career as prior experience is not necessary, which was perfect for me.  Plus there are so many qualifications to gain, which is great as it means you can pick several modules and learn from each one, taking away a vast amount of construction knowledge.”

 

Away from work, Shaun still plays football part time.  He has three boys, aged two, six and eight, who occupy much of his spare time.  The oldest two boys play football and Shaun loves watching them, as well as enjoying family days on a Sunday.

There is currently a selection of three and four bedroom homes available at Somerford Gate, with prices starting from £319,995.  For further information, please contact Bellway on 01260 241 660

Apprenticeships, Construction, Construction News, News, North of England

Building College Launches Innovative Commercial Gas Engineering Apprenticeship

A new apprenticeship for Commercial Gas Engineering Operatives has officially launched at Leeds College of Building.

The apprenticeship is the first of its kind in Yorkshire, and the first time the College has offered a commercial rather than domestic pathway for gas engineers. The training is aimed at individuals employed by gas, heating, and ventilation firms who specialise in business services.

Jim Branney, Curriculum Manager for Gas and Short Courses at Leeds College of Building, explained:

“Since changes were made to the entry requirements to allow people work in the gas industry, employers have been unable to easily tap into this kind of commercial gas engineering training. We have therefore been responsive to employer feedback and adopted a BPEC curriculum framework, endpoint assessment, and accredited certification specifically for these apprentices working in commercial organisations.

“The training is a little different to the domestic route as it’s not a qualification – it’s a managed learning programme leading to Gateway. The outcome is still an End Point Assessment and ultimately an apprenticeship certificate. Training is designed for those who need to know theories and safety procedures involved in the commercial installation, commissioning, decommissioning, or service and repair of gas appliances and associated equipment.”

Jim continued:

“This is probably one of only a handful of apprenticeship routes regionally into the commercial gas industry, yet there is a huge demand for trained professionals needed for thousands of opportunities nationally. This apprenticeship is an ideal route for individuals looking to specialise as commercial gas engineers.”

The new apprenticeship will cover statutory requirements such as health, safety and environmental legislation and regulation, along with maintenance of gas installations and appliances in accordance with industry standards.

Apprentices also learn about electrical and mechanical principles, energy efficiency, products, company rules, policies and procedures, risk assessments, tool maintenance, personal protective equipment (PPE), working on customer premises, effective communication, working with different trades, flue testing, pipework installation, ambient air testing, and identifying faults.

In the final three months of the apprenticeship, trainees submit a portfolio consisting of a Gas Safe® registration certificate, competency test, and work-log review which includes an interview with a Technical Expert. On achieving a pass or distinction, apprentices will be eligible for membership with the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) professional registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech).

Applicants should be aged 16 or over and ideally already be employed or have secured a work placement. Those unable to find an apprenticeship can apply for a study programme at Leeds College of Building and switch over to an apprenticeship at any point when a vacancy becomes available.  Visit the Leeds College of Building website for more details about how to apply or to enquire about training your employees.

Construction, Construction News, News, Sustainability, Waste and Recycling

Should We Rethink The Way We Managing Waste In Construction?

Construction often falls under the microscope when it comes to sustainability, particularly when it comes to waste management.  Neal Gordon, Director of Blakeney Leigh, considers whether the industry could make changes to make waste management in construction a more circular process

Our industry has long been criticised for its negative impact on the environment.

From the emissions created by large building sites, to the mountains of unused or damaged materials produced daily, it is no wonder people are calling for a rethink in the way we’re managing waste in construction.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how the majority of the industry currently goes about it and highlight some of the differences between large and small-scale projects.

It’s becoming more and more critical that we look at ways in which we can improve upon disposal methods in order to have a more positive impact on the environment and recycle as much waste material as possible. Climate change is becoming a more eminent topic each day. There is no excuse to hold off making a difference any longer.

Managing Waste In Construction Today

Also known as C&D (construction and demolition) disposal, we are referring to the debris generated during the building, renovation, and demolition of property or infrastructure.

This can include anything from concrete and bricks to wood and drywall. It also encompasses packaging materials such as plastics and Styrofoam used to protect equipment or products during shipping.

As the UK’s biggest consumer of natural resources, the industry uses up around 400 million tonnes each year. This results in an average of 100 million tonnes being thrown away, much of which is improperly or inefficiently disposed of.

The majority of it ends up in landfill where it takes years to break down – if it ever does at all.

In fact, it’s estimated that as much as 50% of all waste in England is from activity within this sector. This is despite the fact that up to 90% of it could be recycled or reused.

Without proper understanding and increased media attention – the public is oblivious to the size of the problem. As a result, little is likely to change as no one is well-equipped enough to adapt and remove processes accordingly.

The Negative Implications

So what are some of the implications of managing waste in construction so poorly? For starters, there’s the obvious environmental impact.

As we mentioned, a lot of construction waste ends up in landfill where it takes an extremely long time to break down – if at all. This means more emissions being produced and a larger carbon footprint for the industry as a whole.

Not only that, but landfills are also a breeding ground for methane gas. This is a greenhouse gas that’s around 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide and hugely damaging to our atmosphere in large quantities.

When managing waste in construction, we need to be mindful of the long-term effects it will have on the environment as we are already at the point where no change now means we may never see a marked improvement in the climate crisis.

As well as the huge environmental impact, it is costing the industry thousands each year. More considered methods could mean we are saving huge amounts of money by reusing materials. Because the truth is, a large percentage of the things we get rid of could be used again and again – if not recycled for use elsewhere.

As fairly universal processes, it doesn’t matter if the project is a simple home renovation or a commercial development, the damage is being done from all sides.

So, unless we make these changes prominent and encourage consistency, it’s not going to have the same effect as if one or the other takes our message on board.

Improving Waste Management In Construction

There are plenty of ways we could adapt our attitude towards this topic with relative ease. It doesn’t have to be an overhaul of everything we know – small steps and some careful consideration can make a big difference. Having an  agreed Waste Management Plan in place will set the scope of requirements.

Recycled Materials

Firstly, we do it more in our homes than on the building site and that is recycling. Using recycled materials in construction whenever possible can ensure we are not throwing money or emissions out the window. This can be things like using recycled metal or plastic instead of buying new, or even encouraging the use of crushed concrete as a sub-base for domestic driveways.

In doing so, we are doing four main things:

  • Avoiding the ever-mounting cost of landfill tax
  • Reducing disposal costs and amount of material wastage
  • Increasing your competitive advantage in the industry by providing eco-friendly services
  • Reducing CO2 emissions

So, not only are you saving money and impacting the environment more positively – but you are beginning a more circular economy of using less, using for longer and using things again. If everyone adopts this way of managing waste in construction, we would see a marked improvement.

Get Your Logistics In Hand

Another way is by managing waste on-site more efficiently. As simple or obvious as it may seem – many people don’t do this to an extent that actually makes an impact.

General best practice would be to initially decide who is responsible for the movement of materials and rubbish throughout the site. Having one person that knows exactly where each skip or container is, mitigates the risk of things being disposed of improperly.

On smaller projects, this will be easier to delegate and someone usually ends up with that role anyway. Especially in domestic jobs – the usual lack of disposal methods or designated areas makes it far easier to ensure it is being done correctly.

However, for larger sites we would ask you to consider how many containers you are likely going to need and where the optimal locations for storage will be when construction begins.

This will ensure the entire process is as simple as possible for everyone involved.

As well as this, simply ensuring work is carried out in a logical and planned order will reduce the risk of unnecessary waste and remedial actions. This is something we don’t often consider – but communication is undoubtedly going to play a huge role in the industry’s ability to better the ways we are managing waste in construction.

Consider How Excess Material Can Be Used

When we think about the whole process, we often get caught up in the intention of getting rid of everything. However, the best way to improve the whole idea is to minimise the things we throw away and think more clearly about reusing them instead.

There are many ways that excess material can be used on-site or even off-site that don’t involve simply chucking it in a skip. If you have rubble from an excavation or demolition, for example, this could be crushed and reused as a sub-base elsewhere on your site or donated to a community project who can make use of it.

Alternatively, domestic projects often result in plenty of usable materials that may not even need to be recycled. From one neighbour to another – you could be contributing towards landscaping projects with old bricks or giving someone the opportunity to upcycle your once-loved kitchen units.

Researching these possibilities prior to completion will ensure you’re segregating the materials appropriately during each project and can minimise waste to the highest level.

The point is that there are options available to us which mean we don’t need to get rid of everything that isn’t used in a project directly. This not only saves money but reduces the amount of waste going to landfill

Final Thoughts

Everyone needs to start managing waste in construction with the long-term effects in mind. It will require a change in the way we think about disposing of materials as well as a more proactive attitude towards reuse and recycling.

But, if we can make these small changes, the benefits for us, the environment and future generations will be huge.

Not only do larger organisations like ourselves need to form new habits, but by pushing this message through wide media and educating the general public – we can create a community who are willing to turn this industry on its head.

Being labelled as the most wasteful industry is not something we are proud of – nor do we want this to be the case any longer, so feel free to get in touch with our team for more information or advice on how you can better your next big project!

Blakeney Leigh is actively involved in working with our contractors on large and small sites to manage waste. We recycle as much material as possible, separate out into different containers and encourage innovative solutions to reduce the overall impact of the waste materials we generate.

 

About the author

Neal Gordon is the Director of Blakeney Leigh and has a wide range of experience in the construction industry, ‘cutting his teeth’ in local authorities and major housing associations before moving to private practice. Becoming chartered in 1996 Neal has focused on building surveying and project management for property managers, party wall matters, contract administration and expert witness. Outside of the work environment Neal enjoys motorcycling, skiing and boating.

Construction, Construction News, News

New CFO for Premier Forest Products

Newport-based Premier Forest Products has appointed a new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to support the company through its next period of growth.

Neil Davies joins the company as CFO with over 25 years’ financial experience. Neil started his career with PwC and prior to joining Premier spent 20 years working in the steel industry.

During his time with Tata Steel Neil held senior roles at a group and business level, including finance director of its south Wales operations. More latterly, Neil was one of three executives, along with a consortium of business and public service representatives, who formed an employee management buy-out bid for Tata Steel UK in 2016.

Most recently Neil was the CFO for the UK Windows and Doors Group Ltd as they went through a significant financial and operating restructuring and turnaround plan. Neil is also a board member and Chair of the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee at Hafod Housing & Care.

Neil said: “With its history of success and recent, rapid growth, I’m excited to be joining a business of Premier Forest Products’ stature.

“I’m looking forward to building on the great work undertaken by my predecessor Peter Morgan and using my financial knowledge and experience to help drive Premier’s next phase of development through acquisitions and organic growth.”

 

Co-founder and CEO of Premier Forest Products, Terry Edgell, said: “We’re pleased to welcome someone of Neil’s calibre to the team as we continue to invest heavily in the business. The last 12 months have seen record turnover for Premier and we have ambitious plans in place to continue this trajectory of growth into 2023 and beyond.”

Neil takes over from retiring CFO Peter Morgan who has been with Premier Forest Products since 2008 and has helped steer the company through major changes and rapid expansion.

 

Peter said: “During my time with Premier Forest Products, I have seen major growth in the business and watched as the company built an excellent workforce with a great bunch of colleagues.

“I have seen a lot of changes, with nine acquisitions during my time with the company but one that stands out the most is saving the Brooks Timber and Building Supplies business in Ireland from liquidation. Preserving jobs and the business, as well as providing the necessary support to restore it to robust financial health, was very memorable, culminating with the sale of the business last year.”

 

Terry said: “Peter has been a constant source of support to co-founders Dilwyn, Nigel and myself and we’d like to thank him for all his hard work and advice over the last 14 years. We would like to take this opportunity to wish him a long and happy retirement.”

 

Premier Forest Products is a vertically integrated timber operation engaged in the importation, sawmilling, processing, merchanting, and wholesale distribution of timber and timber products from its 12 sites in the UK.