Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
UK Construction News Archive for September 2007
28/09/2007
One of the most ambitious and impressive proposals for Nottingham's transport and economic development has been given a boost by funding from East Midlands Development Agency (emda) and the Greater Nottingham Partnership (GNP). A development grant of over £1.5 million has been awarded to take forwa
28/09/2007
The Strategic Forum for Construction has agreed a framework for delivering major improvements across six key industry areas. Taking a lead from its work in developing the 2012 Construction Commitments, the Forum will be focusing its attention on:
28/09/2007
Gladedale, one of Britain’s largest private housebuilders, has announced a new senior appointment to drive forward its growth in Scotland. Crawford Copstick has been appointed as the new managing director of Gladedale, (Central Scotland) Ltd, one of the company’s biggest operating regions. This yea
28/09/2007
The Platform Lift Company, one of the UK’s leading suppliers and fitters of platform lifts for disabled access, has announced its collaboration with the Italian platform lift and stairlift designers, Vimec. Now a major international distributor for Vimec, The Platform Lift Company will be promoting
28/09/2007
Connectors and structural systems specialists for the construction industry, Simpson-Tie is celebrating a major accolade at this year's prestigious TTJ Awards. Hosted at London’s plush Park Lane Hotel by Tony Blair’s former master of spin, Alastair Campbell, a record audience of over 400 figures fr
28/09/2007
Timber door manufacturer Jeld-Wen has expanded its tri-fold 'Wellington' patio door range to enable developers to make the most of natural light in their properties. This stylish sliding folding door is now available in a choice of attractive unfinished hardwood and fully finished softwood designs.
28/09/2007
Noise pollution is a common problem in apartments and Orion Homes was determined to ensure that its buyers would benefit from harmonious living. ADM Systems, one of the leaders in air management, supplied 17 energy efficient heat recovery systems for the development, 'Wentworth Mews' based in Ackwo
28/09/2007
One of the first installations of ACO’s new smaller Qmax sizes has just been completed within a car park at Oxford Brookes University. The 22 metre run of Qmax 225 slot drain prevents surface water ponding in a service car park on the University’s Harcourt Hill Campus – a location that had been pro
27/09/2007
Miller Cromdale, the joint venture company between Miller Developments and Cromdale Ltd, has acquired Riverside Business Park, Aberdeen, for £2.54 million from ING Real Estate. Riverside Business Park, located on North Espalande West, totals 18,439 square foot and includes a two-storey office pavil
27/09/2007
In a move hailed by Association for Consultancy and Engineering Chief Executive Nelson Ogunshakin as a massive boost to the Association's growing representation of its sector, leading international consultancy Mott MacDonald were announced this week as a new member. Mott MacDonald employs over 12,0
27/09/2007
Construction services group Pyeroy has expanded its specialist asbestos removal and waste handling capabilities with the acquisition of a business in Scotland. Pyeroy has acquired the Paisley-based asbestos division of Gordons Environmental Ltd for an undisclosed sum. Gordons is a long established
27/09/2007
This year's JCT Annual Conference will be staged by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors at its headquarters, 12 Great George Street, London, on Wednesday, October 31. Entitled 'JCT- What’s new?', the theme for the day-long conference is turning collaboration into competitive advantage. An
27/09/2007
Designed and manufactured by Makita and exclusive to Screwfix, the new SITE range features exceptional performance with all the features and support associated with a world leading manufacturer. Combining design style with accuracy and ease of use, these tools also offer the robustness, precision a
27/09/2007
In a bid to target unnecessary waste of money and energy, the Heat Project, a long running nationwide campaign, actively aims to reduce householders’ energy usage and save them money. The Heat Project is a hugely successful campaign that was established by the award winning firm of energy consultan
27/09/2007
Established since 1975, DAB is a leading manufacturer of motor-driven pumps for heating, air conditioning, drainage, pressurisation and industrial applications. Recent developments have seen the launch of comprehensive pumping systems for the management and distribution of recycled rainwater. For a
27/09/2007
The Power of Aluminium Awards, a brand new international competition designed to recognise and reward design and innovation using aluminium, has now been launched, with a chance to win a share of £50,000 in prize money. Backed by leading UK designer Wayne Hemingway, the Awards will celebrate design
26/09/2007
Secretary of State for Business John Hutton has announced that work to examine the feasibility of generating electricity from the Severn Estuary will begin immediately. A Severn Barrage would harness the power of the Severn Estuary using the proven technology of a hydroelectric dam, but filled by t
26/09/2007
A systematic campaign to improve the image of the construction industry in Wales is one of a series of wide-ranging recommendations made in a new report on the future development sector. Construction is an important and growing contributor to the Welsh economy. The sector sustains some 10,000 busin
26/09/2007
The refurbishment of a Hampshire County Council respite care unit for adults with a learning disability has won an award for its design. The extension to Highfield House in Bishopstoke was designed by Winchester-based Alexander Design. The design team drew up the plans in consultation with the unit
26/09/2007
Employers are being urged by ConstructionSkills to sign up to the new 14-19 Construction and Built Environment (C&BE) Diploma as the Government opens 'Gateway 2', the latest window in which companies can apply to participate in the partnerships which will deliver the Diploma. With just one year to
26/09/2007
The Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT), the UK’s largest contract authoring body, will host a policy meeting on November 7 to discuss how contracts and guidance might help improve sustainability in the construction industry. The Stern Report last year predicted environmental Armageddon unless mankind c
26/09/2007
Lindapter steelwork clamps are simplifying the construction of the on/off ramps needed for the Brisbane North South Bypass Tunnel project. When completed, this 6.8 km long construction will be the longest tunnel in Australia. The piers that support the ramps are being made by the formwork and scaf
26/09/2007
Forth Plant Hire of Alloa now operates a 100 per cent Kubota mini excavator fleet after buying a U25-3GL 2.54 tonne zero tail swing model. It replaces a Volvo machine and joins two KX36-3 1.5 tonne models and two U10-3 1.0 tonne zero tail swing machines in the company's all-Kubota fleet. The U25-3
26/09/2007
UK water softener manufacturer Tapworks has been independently assessed as the first carbon neutral water softener manufacturer in the UK – and it is believed to be the first popular household appliance manufacturer of any kind to be able to claim carbon neutral status or better. The company called
25/09/2007
Defence Secretary Des Browne has announced an extra £80 million is to be allocated to improve Army housing, following reports of UK soldiers living in poor conditions. Mr Browne revealed the money will be used to create a further 1,350 new en-suite bed spaces to be built as part of an ongoing proje
25/09/2007
The first phase of infrastructure work that will mark the start of Newport’s £48 million Rodney Parade waterfront development gets underway this month. The project, which will dramatically transform this area of Newport, combines the regeneration of the prominent waterfront site, the creation of a
25/09/2007
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has launched the Faculty of Building Control and Standards. Kevin Dawson, the CIOB’s Faculty Chair, welcomed the news, saying: "We are delighted to announce the introduction of this new Faculty. The intention is to raise the professional profile of buildin
25/09/2007
Simon Bartley, chair of SummitSkills, has been appointed Chief Executive of UK Skills, the organisation that promotes skills and learning through competitions and awards. Simon's main responsibility will be raising the profile of skills across the United Kingdom, primarily through the support of sk
25/09/2007
Social housing specialist Swish Building Products has added two new coloured product ranges to its extensive offer, giving residents and the commercial sector new choice and flexibility. The new Anthracite and Grey product offers include a full range of fascias, soffits and bargeboards as well as c
25/09/2007
The Platform Lift Company, one of the UK’s leading suppliers and fitters of platform lifts for disabled access, has announced a collaboration with the Italian platform lift and stairlift designers, Vimec. Now a major international distributor for Vimec, The Platform Lift Company will be promoting t
25/09/2007
To help reduce carbon emissions and maintain energy within a house, Schiedel chimney systems are now available with a built-in flue damper. The damper can be closed when the fire is not in use avoiding heat loss and helping maintain energy within the house. The amount of CO2 in the SAP rating is ha
25/09/2007
Top firms have just weeks left to apply for the 2008 Queen’s Award For Enterprise - the UK's highest business honour for business success. Applications for next year’s Queen’s Awards close on 31 October 2007, with winners announced on 21 April 2008. The Awards recognise and reward outstanding achi
24/09/2007
Europe's largest professional occupational health and safety body, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), and MPs are demanding urgent action over construction industry safety following a report by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that shows almost a quarter of sites inspecte
24/09/2007
Transport Minister Rosie Winterton has approved a £15 million scheme to repair nine bridges and 3.5km of retaining walls on the road network in Kirklees in West Yorkshire. This essential maintenance work will improve the condition of important access roads in the Kirklees area and prevent the possi
24/09/2007
Responding to users’ demands, LHC Network has opened an office in Scotland to help procurement professionals in the public sector meet the Scottish Housing Quality Standard by 2015 compliantly and efficiently. LHC Network had noted an increasing interest coming from Scottish users who were particul
24/09/2007
CALA Homes and Barnardo Developments cemented a winning partnership as they celebrated the sell-out of two of the premier developer’s high profile developments. Signature in Edinburgh’s prestigious Grange, features eleven contemporary apartments nestling in a private garden. With stunning southerly
24/09/2007
Employers are being urged by ConstructionSkills to sign up to the new 14-19 Construction and Built Environment (C&BE) Diploma as the Government opens ‘Gateway 2’, the latest window in which companies can apply to participate in the partnerships which will deliver the Diploma. With just one year to
24/09/2007
Fairview Crane Hire has selected Genie as the sole supplier for its growing fleet of aerial work platforms. The supply of access equipment for rent is a new avenue for the Essex-based company, which specialises in mobile crane hire. The company purchased several machines from Genie at the end of la
24/09/2007
The Joint Industry Board for the Electrical Contracting Industry (JIB) is inviting applications for this year's Further Education Fund, which provides financial assistance for those wishing to undertake further training or education in the electrical contracting industry. The JIB Chairman, Sir Mich
24/09/2007
Imtiaz Farookhi, Chief Executive of National House-Building Counci (NHBC) has welcomed the creation of a health and safety forum, chaired by Peter Hain, Work and Pensions Secretary. However, Mr Farookhi stressed that it was important to separate fatalities in new build from those in the repair, re
21/09/2007
'Building for Life', the Government-endorsed standard for well designed homes, has awarded the Gold Standard to luxury housebuilder Chase Homes, for the design and construction of 'The Russells' at Broadway, Worcestershire. Other winners of the gold standards include Ecos Homes and Stride Treglown'
21/09/2007
Average house prices in North East England reached their highest ever mark across most types of property last year - with the median price tag for a property rising to £119,000 in 2006. Data from the region’s Annual Housing Summary shows that while growth rates in house prices eased off between 200
21/09/2007
Following the Construction Safety Summit on 17 September, chaired by Peter Hain MP, Secretary of State for Works and Pensions, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) is warning that the Government needs to tackle the grey economy in the construction sector if it wants to reduce the number of accide
21/09/2007
SED (Site Equipment Demonstration) 2008 is off to a flying start with the number of stand bookings well ahead in comparison to this time last year. The show is taking place a week earlier in 2008 from 13 – 15 May at Rockingham Motor Speedway, in Corby Northamptonshire, the show's third year at the
21/09/2007
The Flat Roof Alliance (FRA) and The Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC) have pledged their formal support for the Green Roof Campaign. The campaign, fronted by Dusty Gedge and sponsored by Permanite Engineered Roofing Systems, aims to increase support for a solid government policy on green roofs in the U
21/09/2007
In the construction industry stampede to meet the requirements of the new building regulations which came into force in May this year, timber frame companies could be fairly relaxed. Among these companies, Scotframe, the privately-owned manufacturer and supplier could afford to be more relaxed than
21/09/2007
The National Specialist Contractors’ Council (NSCC) Fair Payment Campaign has been officially unveiled to the construction industry at a champagne reception in London. The Fair Payment Campaign, which is calling for proper and timely payment throughout the supply chain to improve the quality of all
21/09/2007
Rollins & Sons (London), the leading tool distributor for Marshalltown Tools, will be launching a series of fact sheets at Interbuild 2007 to educate and encourage a new generation of skilled tradespeople. The informative fact sheets highlight everything a beginner needs to know about Roofing, Bric
20/09/2007
Cardiff has played host to one of a series of stakeholder events being held to capture the views of green groups, energy companies, businesses, consumer groups, unions, faith groups and academics on the future of nuclear energy. The stakeholder meetings are part of the Government’s discussion with
20/09/2007
Responding to the DCLG announcement for incentives for local councils to accelerate the building of much needed new homes, HBF Executive Chairman, Stewart Baseley, has said: "We welcome the objective of the new Housing and Planning Delivery Grant. Ensuring that funding helps support those authoritie
20/09/2007
Homes and interiors retailer Au Naturale is gearing up for its official move to a new distribution centre on Scotland's leading mixed use business park, at Eurocentral. As the completion and handover stage of the move begins the Glasgow-based business aims to be fully operational by early 2008. Da
20/09/2007
Scottish house builders will benefit from a high profile national campaign to promote excellence in the profession with the launch of a new independent awards programme. The Scottish Home Awards, sponsored by the Dunfermline Building Society, will highlight the quality and diversity of new housing
20/09/2007
Environmental technology manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric has launched an incredibly efficient new heating system that harvests and upgrades the energy found naturally in the outdoor air to minimise energy use within our homes and dramatically reduce carbon emissions. The Ecodan heat pump boiler ga
20/09/2007
Terex has appointed Glyn Goodwin to the position of UK regional sales manager for the Terex Aerial Work Platform (AWP) Business which includes Genie, Terex Lift and Terex light construction products. Glyn joined Terex AWP in December 2005 following extensive experience in the access industry. Durin
20/09/2007
Jeld-Wen, one of the UK’s largest manufacturers of timber doors, has released a stunning new addition to its range. The Clifton softwood doorset offers the opportunity to maximise the amount of natural light in a home, without compromising on security. The Clifton doorset is one of the first volum
20/09/2007
StuffBak, the nation's leading loss protection and recovery service and CoSoSys, a European software development firm, have announced a partnership that enhances Carry it Easy and Carry it Easy +Plus software. When a StuffBak registered USB flash drive is lost, the Carry it Easy software assures t
19/09/2007
With effect from October 1 2007, CCL Lindab will be known simply as 'Lindab', as part of a final phase of its merger. Work has already begun on erecting new signs at the company's 25 branches throughout the UK and on a new livery for its large fleet of delivery vehicles. The move marks the last st
19/09/2007
Häfele’s roll-for-the-pocket Essentials catalogue has now reached 150 pages and carries an even bigger range of products for smaller shop and interior fitters and for site-workers. Essentials 10 is the first catalogue of its type to offer a range of format options. In addition to the traditiona
19/09/2007
Since taking over as Rockwool UK’s Managing Director on May 1 2007, Hans Schreuder has presided over one of the UK building materials industry’s biggest announcements of recent months. The unveiling of a €100 million investment by the Rockwool Group in the Bridgend plant, doubling capacity, underli
19/09/2007
A packaged pumping station from ITT Flygt is playing a key role at a quayside expansion scheme on the Isle of Wight. The two-pump Compit unit has been installed as part of a South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) project to extend facilities for business based at Venture Quays. Complete wit
19/09/2007
Hanson Formpave, an established manufacturer of concrete block pavers and permeable paving solutions, in partnership with appointed South Africa licensee Concor Technicrete, has completed the first ever permeable paving contract in the country. The driveways and yard areas of an affordable housing
19/09/2007
The Construction Products Association has written to the Chancellor ahead of the Pre-Budget Report stressing the need to avoid any further increase in the fiscal burden on business either through new taxes or increases in existing ones. In particular the Association has urged the Chancellor not to
19/09/2007
The National Insulation Association (NIA) has welcomed the 'Blueprint for a Green Economy' paper submitted by the Quality of Life Policy Group. Neil Marshall, Chief Executive of the NIA, said: "Insulating every home in Britain will not only significantly reduce carbon emissions but also result in a
19/09/2007
Hard landscaping company Marshalls has announced the signing of an agreement with the Carbon Trust to carbon label its domestic products. Carbon footprinting of products is not new, but in the landscaping industry it was unknown until Marshalls launched its Carbon Calculator in January 2007. The n
18/09/2007
Following the launch of the Conservative Party's 'Blueprint for a Green Economy' the Construction Products Association has welcomed the recognition by the party of the need for action to improve the environmental performance of homes throughout the country. John Tebbit, Industry Affairs Director,
18/09/2007
The next phase of clearance and regeneration of the Lyndhurst estate in Erdington, in Birmingham looks set to be approved by the Cabinet. A meeting will take place on 24 September in an attempt to transform the area into a sustainable, new build development fit for the 21st Century. The Cabinet wi
18/09/2007
The UK Government will today give planning approval for the world's first large scale wave farm off the coast of Cornwall in South West England. It means the £28 million project, which has been developed by the South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA), has cleared the last major regu
18/09/2007
Leading wood finish specialist Osmo now offers a professional, eco-friendly coloured foundation for all wood floors, as part of its market leading Polyx-Oil range. Available in four subtle colours, (light oak, mid-oak, dark oak and white) Polyx-Oil Colour Foundation is ideal for properties demandi
18/09/2007
A new protocol has been agreed between Bristol City Council and local business organisations, aimed at ensuring major planning applications in the city are dealt with more efficiently and with greater community involvement. Bristol is the engine room of the South West's economy with more and more b
18/09/2007
In response to the rapidly increasing demand for super eco-friendly Passive Houses, Timbmet is the first company in the UK to launch Passive components for windows and Passive door panels. The new product range reinforces Timbmet as the market leader in its commitment to environmental sustainab
18/09/2007
The central belt operations division of Scottish architecture and space planning business Space Solutions has netted contracts worth in excess of £600,000 since the start of the year, prompting a search for larger premises. The company’s in-house commercial logistics management and furniture instal
18/09/2007
The Miller Group, the UK’s largest, privately-owned housebuilding, property development and construction business, has pledged ongoing sponsorship support for the Olympic-hopeful sailing duo of Luke Patience and Chris Grube. Luke Patience (20), from Helensburgh, and Chris Grube (22), from Chester,
17/09/2007
Taking a unique approach to the verification assessment of tender returns for its school modernisation programme, Glasgow City Council chose to actively evaluate the performance of the designs themselves, rather than settling for proof provided by bidders that they met the required criteria. Wishi
17/09/2007
The demolition of two defective 13-storey tower blocks in Bartley Green, Birmingham, will make way for new homes and an improved environment for local people. John Lines, local councillor for Birmingham Council, will take the controls of a JCB to help with the demolition, which will be carried out
17/09/2007
A machine capable of munching its way through 600 tonnes of rock-hard Scottish granite an hour has just arrived at Craigenlow quarry, near Aberdeen. The mobile primary jaw crusher, the biggest of its kind in Scotland, weighs in at 170 tonnes and can crush boulders up to two tonnes in weight and a m
17/09/2007
"Everyone has a right to a decent affordable home and when that right is being denied it's not surprising there is a public outcry," said Grahame Barn, Director of FMB Scotland. He was speaking in response to the current housing crisis and the public demonstration of support for Shelter Scotland's
17/09/2007
A revolutionary new foundation system for conservatories and lightweight structures will be unveiled at Interbuild. Called Quickbase Foundations, the unrivalled modular system has been pioneered by Shire Structures in partnership with Thor Helical Remedial, part of the Wykamol Group. It promises
17/09/2007
Dandara, Scotland’s newest property developer, scooped two awards at this year’s prestigious Herald Property Awards for Scotland 2007. Gh2o, Dandara’s first luxury development of waterfront apartments in Scotland, was named as the best waterfront development and the best overall development in Sco
17/09/2007
As part of its 25th anniversary celebrations, Lawcris Panel Products has pledged to support the fundraising efforts its team member, Mick Halton, who will be heading Stateside this October to take part in the world renowned Death Valley Cycle Challenge. Mick will be cycling across Death Valley on a
17/09/2007
The web is having a significant and positive impact on the fortunes of businesses in Scotland according to a new study released. The research by thebestof, a national network of local marketing websites, run by local people, that champion the best businesses in their area shows that small and mediu
14/09/2007
Peter Hain has reaffirmed his pledge to reduce the number of fatalities in the construction industry. The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions was speaking to the Trades Union Congress (TUC) on Tuesday, in which he stated he would no longer “tolerate a continued increase in construction deaths”
14/09/2007
Sarah Buck, of BSW Consulting (Exeter), will become the Institution of Structural Engineers’ (IStructE) 88th and first female president. She will take office on 4 October 2007 and her presidential session will coincide with the Institution’s Centenary year. On becoming the first woman president o
14/09/2007
Peel Holdings subsidiary Glasgow Harbour Ltd, the company behind the £1billion Glasgow Harbour waterfront development, has lodged a planning application for the construction of a major supermarket. If successful, the 130,000 square foot supermarket will be built at the West End of the 130-acre rege
14/09/2007
The National House-Building Council (NHBC) has developed a new course, "CDM Awareness", to examine the roles and responsibilities of dutyholders under the new Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007. These regulations, introduced in April this year, affect every aspect of health and s
14/09/2007
The Tory Quality of Life Group have published a report which sets out a range of policy proposals concerning electricity generation. Central to its propositions is making the reduction of carbon emissions the main energy policy goal. Commenting on the report, David Porter, Chief Executive of the A
14/09/2007
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has announced the shortlist for the Manser Medal, sponsored by The Rooflight Company. The award is given for the best one-off house or major extension designed by an architect in the UK. A modernist seaside house in Essex and a transformed Victorian
14/09/2007
Kohler Mira is the first member of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) to have an employee gain the Certificate in Bathroom Studies from the Bathroom Academy. Avril Capel started with the company in June 1998 as a Customer Services Representative and has held the position of Technical Advi
14/09/2007
In line with its commitment to provide high quality, low cost products that combine innovation with time, money and, wherever possible, energy-saving benefits, Screwfix is no longer supplying standard GLS light bulbs. Instead it is promoting the use of energy efficient lighting in the latest Screwf
13/09/2007
CALA Finance, the residential funding arm of Edinburgh-based residential and commercial property developer CALA Group, has backed a £12m development by central Scotland developers MCA Homes in East Kilbride. MCA Homes will develop 80 new houses and apartments on the 3.5 acre site, located on Lindsa
13/09/2007
The roof of Apex House, one of Birmingham’s most famous landmark buildings, has been overhauled by roofing contractor Rio Asphalt with Liquid Plastics’ high performance polyurethane coating, Decothane Omega 15. The glass and brick fronted five storey building has recently undergone a high profile
13/09/2007
Speedy Hire has topped a new league table ranking all of the FTSE 350 companies based on their ethical and environmental performance. The UK’s largest tool and equipment hire business, which has over 500 depots across mainland Britain and Ireland, leapfrogged some of the best known companies in the
13/09/2007
The European Week of Safety and Health at Work is set to run from 22 to 26 October 2007, and will focus on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs are the most common form of ill health disorders at work, both in the UK and across Europe. Work-related MSDs affect about one million people in Great Br
13/09/2007
Senior managers and company owners in the construction industry are coming under unprecedented pressure as the sector faces rapid change, consolidation and an ever-increasing burden of regulation. Smaller companies are losing out to the purchasing strength and huge land bank firepower of larger riv
13/09/2007
One of the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of low density thermal insulation materials is to establish a new manufacturing site at Eurocentral business park in Lanarkshire. American owned Calcarb Limited purchased the 5.35 acre site from SE Lanarkshire and will construct a 70,000 sq ft
13/09/2007
Back for its second year after its debut in 2006, Grand Designs Live, running from 5-7 October at the NEC Birmingham, is set to wow visitors with some amazing new show features. Features in the 2007 show include the GRANDSalvage Yard, the Property Ladder Seminar Theatre and the Property Ladder Auct
13/09/2007
For the first time Makita have added a cordless pin nailer to the ever-expanding inventory of professional power tools. This first from Makita is a 14.4volt, Lithium-ion powered cordless pin nailer crammed with “big tool” features. Weighing just 2kgs this tool will prove ideal for on-site installat
12/09/2007
Clyde Valley Housing Association (CVHA), the largest Registered Social Landlord in Lanarkshire, has completed an £80m refinancing deal with a syndicate of Bank of Scotland Corporate and Barclays. This new deal represents a strategic milestone for the Clyde Valley Group as it positions itself to con
12/09/2007
Nearly one in three construction refurbishment sites inspected put the lives of workers at risk, Stephen Williams, HSE Head of Construction has revealed. This figure comes after the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) carried out over 1,500 inspections as part of its rolling inspection programme, res
12/09/2007
IKO PLC has launched five new and easy-to-use dedicated websites for all of its market leading brands. Expertly designed with the user in mind, the new innovative websites have been created to make the product selection process simpler, as well as providing excellent technical support and advice.
12/09/2007
As part of its Fair Payment Campaign, the National Specialist Contractors’ Council (NSCC) has published a ‘toolkit’ specifically for Specialist Contractors. The NSCC Specialist Contractor’s Toolkit is divided into three key sections - Before You Start, While You’re There, and When You’ve Finished -
12/09/2007
Tyco Thermal Controls is at Interbuild 2007 (Stand 03/3A-N36) exhibiting its acclaimed Raychem electric underfloor heating systems and its latest solutions for snow melting applications, hot water services and frost protection in new build or refurbishment projects. These feature the significant en
12/09/2007
Specifying commercial and industrial flue systems has been simplified with the publication of a range of commercial product literature and a comprehensive CD from Schiedel Rite-Vent. Specifically produced for M&E consultants and contractors the new material gives anyone specifying systems where la
12/09/2007
Homes can greatly cut fuel consumption and increase comfort with a new Honeywell concept called Line of Text (LoT ™) which makes it easy for users to control central heating systems to match lifestyles. While heating controls have increased greatly in sophistication, many users find them difficult
12/09/2007
Honeywell has produced a free DVD guide towards the best choice of boiler and heating controls for new or upgraded central heating systems, while considering energy efficiency, Building Regulations, convenience and matching heating with lifestyle. The DVD covers underfloor and radiator systems, ven
11/09/2007
To help address the high skills needs currently being encouraged in the heritage sector, a new Traditional Building Skills Bursary Scheme has been launched, with the first trainee placement now in post in the Works Department at York Minister. The four year Traditional Building Skills Bursary Schem
11/09/2007
The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) has published its latest technical publication, 'Guide to the advanced fire safety engineering of structures'. Designed for structural engineers, fire engineers and approving bodies, this new guide discusses the range of methods available when desi
11/09/2007
Fusion Building Systems have expressed their delighted at taking part in the recent SmartLIFE Training event held at the SmartLIFE Training Centre, Cambridgeshire for two days on June 5 and 6, 2007. Fusion donated a ground floor unit of their factory insulated steel frame, complete with floor casse
11/09/2007
Scotland's leading mixed use business park has confirmed plans to build an additional 244,000 sq ft of high specification industrial and warehousing space, which will be available to let. This £30 million phase of the advance build programme at Eurocentral in Lanarkshire is being pushed forward fol
11/09/2007
Leading construction firm Mansell has announced two senior promotions within its Safety, Health, Environment & Quality (SHEQ) department. Ken Moncur, has been appointed Company SHEQ Manager for the whole of the UK, having previously worked as Mansell’s Divisional SHE Manager for Scotland. Ken, wh
11/09/2007
There are currently an estimated 20,000 unfilled jobs in the consultancy and engineering sector, a new damning report by the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) has revealed. The findings of the ACE HR Review on skills shortages and recruitment agency behaviours underline the urgent n
11/09/2007
In line with the increasing trend towards off-site construction Schiedel have introduced their new Prefabricated Chimney System to complement the popular Swift Chimney System. The Prefabricated Chimney System is assembled under factory conditions and lifted into a house in sections – reducing the
11/09/2007
Geoff Lister, the President of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), is the newest FMB member to join the employee benefits scheme, Template, having signed up his company Greenwood Estate & Property Management Ltd. Template is offered by B&CE Benefit Schemes to all FMB members as part of an ongo
10/09/2007
Residents are being invited to have their say on exciting plans to boost health, leisure, training and employment opportunities in South Bristol - with consultation leaflets being delivered to more than 62,000 homes and a series of exhibitions on the proposals being held between September 18 and 22.
10/09/2007
The current high price for scrap copper and lead is creating havoc for householders and businesses across Bury, it has been revealed. Over the past 12 weeks 56 reports of lead and 18 reports of copper were reported stolen to the police. Business premises, public buildings and residential homes have
10/09/2007
Network VEKA has once again proved its motto - "reliable in the extreme" - by flying the flag at the highest point on earth. The feat comes courtesy of James Ogilvie, brother of Network's Managing Director, John Ogilvie, who conquered Mount Everest in aid of charity. "I feel privileged to be one o
10/09/2007
ITT Flygt has secured a framework agreement with United Utilities, the UK’s largest operator of water and wastewater systems. It is the first time the pumping specialist has been awarded a capital supply agreement by United Utilities. Flygt will design, supply, manufacture, off-load, position, ins
10/09/2007
Timber window manufacturer Jeld-Wen has been awarded International Safety Awards at four of its manufacturing sites from the British Safety Council (BSC). The BSC awarded JELD-WEN’s sites in Melton Mowbray (frames and stairs), Sheffield and Lowestoft the accreditation, which recognises companies wi
10/09/2007
The South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA) has taken formal possession of St Austell's cinema as work continues to gather pace on the £75 million town centre regeneration scheme. The RDA's demolition contractor Gilpin has been tasked with the project and has already moved in. Over
10/09/2007
Civil and Marine has met its Climate Change Agreement (CCA) targets for the third consecutive time, highlighting the company's green credentials. CCAs offer energy intensive business users the chance to reduce their Climate Change Levy - a tax on the use of energy aimed at improving efficiency and
10/09/2007
Proposals for a new development at Western Harbour are now proceeding through consultation, following validation of FM Homes' planning application. Plans for the development, their second within the area, comprise 109 apartments and 13 townhouses. Western Harbour has seen tremendous redevelopment
07/09/2007
Opening up a vista of stunning views was the overriding criteria for an award-winning project that features Sapa Building Systems' Dualframe casement windows. The project – 'Uplands' near Newmarket in Suffolk – won the Home Award category in the last RIBA East Spirit of Ingenuity Architectural Awar
07/09/2007
The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme website at
07/09/2007
Palgrave Brown, the £62 million engineered timber specialist, now offers a range of high performance external doors to provide over 500 different options and combinations, all contained in a full colour brochure. The best-selling line-up of the robust Scotdoor and Timedor timber doors has now been
07/09/2007
Land Registry, the government department responsible for land registration in England and Wales, has exceeded its annual target and is well on course to achieving its aim of a comprehensive land register, according to the Annual Report and Accounts 2006-2007. Almost 60 per cent of land in England a
07/09/2007
Period timber windows and doors supplied by Mumford & Wood have been used in the sympathetic restoration of an 1810 Tudor Hall situated in idyllic rural Kent countryside. The property has a history of its own, and not always without drama. Originally an all-boys school, the property was converted t
07/09/2007
NHBC is re-running its highly successful Alternative Remediation Techniques course to help builders identify potentially cost-effective alternatives to dig and dump. This one-day course is run in conjunction with remediation experts and is designed to familiarise housebuilders with a variety of rem
07/09/2007
Trimble has launched the new Trimble SPS710 and SPS610 Robotic Total Stations for construction layout applications, at Trimble’s Construction Boot Camp 2007, a field-based, hands-on training event for the construction industry. Used with the Trimble LM80 Layout Manager, the new Trimble SPS710 and S
07/09/2007
SGTF, the construction division of Saint-Gobain Reinforcement, has launched a brand-new website to provide invaluable help to customers in the construction industry when they are selecting fibreglass technologies. Specifically aimed at European customers,
06/09/2007
Dawn Construction has won a £60 million construction contract together with the facilities management contract for two new secondary schools at Armadale Academy and Deans Community School, Livingston. The contract – as part of HDM Schools Solutions Ltd, a consortium comprising Dawn Construction, Ho
06/09/2007
The Housing Supply Task Force, the new government instituted body charged with tackling obstacles that are hampering the provision of more homes, has held its first meeting. Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell chaired the session with a membership drawn from local authorities, house-builders, the
06/09/2007
A majority of electricity producers received top marks for environmental performance in 2006 according to a report by the Environment Agency. Significant progress has been made on reducing waste and sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions. SO2 emissions in 2006 were the lowest on record after power station
06/09/2007
This month, Xena Systems Ltd, one of Europe’s largest loading platform hire company have delivered record hire volume, up by 30 per cent over a similar period in 2006. Construction contractors are now realising the productivity gains and cost savings that can be made using platforms over more tradi
06/09/2007
The nature of employment in the construction industry is undergoing a sea change with increasing numbers of students realising that the sector can offer rewarding, fulfilling and environmentally sustainable careers. In recognition of this, the Edinburgh and District Master Builders’ Charitable Trus
06/09/2007
Floorstyle 2008, a brand new exhibition for the flooring industry, will be launched at ExCeL London next summer. Running from 29 June to 1 July, Floorstyle is set to attract over 100 exhibitors from the wood, laminate, vinyl, rubber and linoleum sectors, as well as suppliers of associated accessori
06/09/2007
Acoustic specialist Hodgson and Hodgson Group has achieved a Euroclass A1 fire rating for its Thermos acoustic ceiling tile pads. The rating, part of a new common system of fire testing across the European Union, is the highest product standard for non-combustibility. Thermos acoustic ceiling tile
06/09/2007
Stertil Koni has introduced another model into its fixed 4-post lift range - the new ST4120 replaces the ST4100 and offers an additional two tonnes of lifting capacity over its predecessor. The ST4120's electro-hydraulic lifting system removes the need for cables or pulleys and can lift up to 12 to
05/09/2007
There are currently an estimated 20,000 unfilled jobs in the consultancy and engineering sector, according to a new report by the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE). The comprehensive report has been produced from the results of a survey sent by ACE to the industry to examine the ext
05/09/2007
The Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT) hosted a party of construction students from the University of Hong Kong last week. The students, all from the Department of Real Estate and Construction, were in the UK to see how the building industry works in Britain. JCT hosted the group for a day. During t
05/09/2007
MITIE’s engineering services division has scooped the top prize in the Scottish Edge Awards 2007, which recognise organisations offering practical-learning opportunities for young people. The prize comes with a grant of £12,000 for MITIE to invest in future training plans. MITIE will go on to comp
05/09/2007
Devon County Council has won praise from the Carbon Trust for its work to reduce carbon emissions. The County Council is participating in the Carbon Trust’s Local Authority Carbon Management programme and contributed to last year being the most successful year to date. The energy efficiency projec
05/09/2007
Lee Brand, a former Lochgelly High pupil who has risen through an apprenticeship at Fife Fabrications (FiFab), has scooped the top prize in the Edge Practical Learner Award 2007, which recognises young people who have succeeded by learning on the job. The prize comes with a grant of £2,000 for FiFa
05/09/2007
An innovative unloading system from Easilift Loading Systems has been chosen by Tesco for the loading bays at its flagship environmental store in Wick, Scotland. It was designed, built and installed by Easilift to meet Tesco's specific requirements for what has been described as 'Britain's greenest
05/09/2007
Following the revision of UK Building Regulations to meet the obligations of the European Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD), Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES) is now the only commercial software provider to offer compliance solutions for all regions of the UK. Addressing reductions i
05/09/2007
Sontay, the market leader in control peripheral products, has promoted Iain Johnstone from Customer Services Advisor to the key position of Customer Service Supervisor. Iain brings with him many years experience in this field, including previous roles of Customer Service Supervisor for Homebase and
04/09/2007
An investment of more than £3 million in new affordable homes in Kelso, Eyemouth and Jedburgh has been announced. Communities Minister Stewart Maxwell approved the new schemes as he officially opened the Eildon Housing Association's newly-built Mossilee housing development in Galashiels. The £5mil
04/09/2007
A former local authority sports centre in Hellesdon, Norwich has been turned into a state-of-the-art Esporta Health Centre thanks to a £8.5 million makeover from Senior Aluminium Systems. Senior worked with fabricators Quadrille to provide its high performance SMR 900 curtain wall system to form th
04/09/2007
HM Doors will be showcasing its extensive product portfolio at this year's Housebuilding 2007 Exhibition in October. With more than 18 years' experience in the house building industry, HM Doors is now recognised as one of the UK's leading suppliers to the new build market. As a specialist provider
04/09/2007
An office based on Charlotte Square in Edinburgh fought off competition from over 80 offices across the UK to win two awards at the recent Hays Construction & Property conference. The Edinburgh office won the sought after title of Hays Construction & Property Office of the Year and Tamara Jaberu,
04/09/2007
Stanley Primary School in Ardrossan welcomed not only an influx of new pupils for the latest school session last week, but is also enjoying a brand new school building after the handover of the school from leading construction firm Dawn Construction. The primary school - part of North Ayrshire Coun
04/09/2007
Dawn Group has completed the initial phase of Glasgow North Retail Park, Robroyston, an investment of £30m in one of Glasgow's largest growth areas. Dawn Construction, working in partnership with their sister company Dawn Developments, has completed the Retail Park and dual carriageway works on pro
04/09/2007
Green Building Store, one of the leading suppliers of sustainable building products in the UK, is launching The Water Saving Collection - an exclusive range of water saving products available to buy mail order. The Water Saving Collection is available from the end of September and includes a wide a
04/09/2007
The first BTEC's in Construction Lean Improvement Techniques have been awarded to four employees from Cowlin Construction, the Cardiff-based building contractor. These are the first externally verified and nationally recognised UK qualifications in lean construction. The BTEC Level 3 Advanced Awa
03/09/2007
Statistics released by NHBC, the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes, have shown that the number of new homes started so far this year has increased slightly when compared to last year. Despite a fall in the number of new home starts during the three months to the end of July, NHB
03/09/2007
Sunand Prasad, Founding Partner of Penoyre and Prasad Architects, has become the new President of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Sunand is the 72nd RIBA President, a position previously held by Sir G. Gilbert Scott, Sir William Tite, and Sir Basil Spence, among others. He takes o
03/09/2007
A new design and engineering centre has been opened at Teeside on behalf of AMEC, the international project management and services company. Around 150 highly-skilled designers have relocated from AMEC’s office in Wallsend, Tyne and Wear to the new state-of-the-art facilities at Lion Court, Wynyard
03/09/2007
A Bedfordshire man has been fined £8000 and ordered to pay £1359 costs for illegally storing four tonnes of roof sheeting. Anthony Julian West from Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire was charged with two offences, the first related to storing asbestos without a licence and the second related to the removal o
03/09/2007
Irish precast concrete products company Readymix, has sold part of its business to a construction materials manufacturer. It is understood Acheson and Glover bought it for €49 million in cash. Readymix has said it had a business turnover of €55.8 million and earnings before interest, tax, deprecia
03/09/2007
Arch Timber Protection had double success with the award-winning Savill Building in Englefield Green, Surrey, where it has provided two levels of protection to the spectacular curved timber ceiling. The 12mm double skinned birch plywood roof was treated with both VACSOL Aqua and DRICON, providing b
03/09/2007
Irish buildings group Kingspan have announced pre-tax profits of €108.2 million for the first half of 2007, an increase of almost 30 per cent in the past year. The company’s earnings per share also grew 30 per cent to 52.7 cent and a 33 per cent higher interim dividend of eight per cent will be pai
03/09/2007
Mitsubishi Electric Living Environmental Systems UK has announced that it will no longer be promoting cooling-only air conditioning products in the UK and is now phasing out all existing models from its stock. The move is part of Mitsubishi Electric's 'Green Gateway Initiative' and comes on the bac
03/09/2007
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has welcomed figures in the Government’s panel of inspectors’ report on the draft South East Plan, as a key step in ensuring the region achieves its ambition of sustainable prosperity over the next 20 years and retains its position as the powerhouse
03/09/2007
Eurocell Profiles, the Derbyshire-based PVC-u window and door profile manufacturer, is celebrating the success of its sponsored teams, the Eastwood Town 'The Badgers' and 'Little Eaton Diamonds', both based in Derbyshire. Eastwood Town won promotion to play in this season’s UniBond Premier division
