Construction UK Magazine - November 2025

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November 2025 Contents

Quelfire Returns to London Build Expo 2025

London Build Expo Marks 10 Years with Its Biggest Edition Yet

Interview with James Rowell, founder of Capture Expense

Modern excavators & digitisation

- By Bart Vingerhoets

The New Cyber Risks Facing Property Managers

On The Tools Awards 2025 Finalists Announced

Free pitched roofing courses to address skills shortage

The Fight for Façades –Incorporating Building Services Effectively

Casey Group Applauded for Leading the Way

Does the construction industry have an Integrity problem

Tel: 01843 808 106

Editor Maria Lapthorn editor@constructionmaguk.co.uk

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Production/Design Laura Whitehead laura@constructionmaguk.co.uk

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Website: constructionmaguk.co.uk

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Every

CASTLEFORGE DELIVERS GRADE A OFFICE SPACE TO SUPPLY-CONSTRAINED CAPITAL WITH TOPPING OUT OF ONE GOLDEN LANE

London based real estate investment firm Castleforge recently celebrated the topping out of One Golden Lane, its 120,000+ sq ft Grade A office development adjacent to the iconic Barbican Centre in the City of London.

The ceremony, attended by senior City of London Corporation officials including Gwyn Richards, Planning and Development Director, marked the structural completion of the building’s 12th storey, set for completion in Q2 2026.

Pictured Left: Matthew Reid, Head of Development and Asset Management at Castleforge (centre), and Castleforge team

Located four minutes from the Elizabeth Line at Farringdon, One Golden Lane forms part of Castleforge’s broader pipeline, which will deliver over 1,000,000 sq ft of Grade A space in the next 24 months, including a landmark redevelopment at 75 London Wall, 55 Mark Lane and Cannon Bridge House.

The milestone comes at a critical time for Central London’s increasingly supplyconstrained office market, where Grade A vacancy rates have fallen to historic lows of just 2.1% in prime City locations.

The Grade II listed development, originally designed by Tate Britain architect Sidney Smith, retains its heritage features including the 1896 façade while its newly completed 12th storey offers commanding views across the Barbican—demonstrating how historic buildings can be transformed into best-inclass modern workspaces.

Additionally, One Golden Lane pioneers sustainability in construction, retaining 95% of the existing building and becoming the first London scheme to reuse over 5 tonnes of reclaimed steel from the same site.

The development is targeting Net Zero Whole Life Carbon and BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification, with integrated urban greening throughout and 100% renewable energy powering operations.

WREXHAM AFC APPOINT MCLAREN CONSTRUCTION UNDER PCSA FOR NEW KOP STAND REDEVELOPMENT

Wrexham AFC have appointed McLaren Construction Midlands and North under a PCSA for the redevelopment of the iconic Kop Stand at the STōK Cae Ras.

The project will restore the stadium to a full four-sided structure, increase capacity to over 18,000, and deliver modern facilities to achieve UEFA Category 4 compliance.

McLaren will finalise designs, subcontractor packages, and construction timelines, with early works beginning this month.

Completion is scheduled for the 2026/27 season.

Part of the wider Wrexham Gateway Partnership, the redevelopment will enhance both the stadium and the city’s infrastructure.

EDINBURGH’S 30 SEMPLE STREET

OFFICE DEVELOPMENT ACHIEVES SCOTLAND’S HIGHEST BREEAM SCORE

CBRE Investment Management’s (CBRE IM) ambitious sustainability approach has been fulfilled, with the final BREEAM certification for 30 Semple Street being awarded at the top “Outstanding” level.

With a final score of 93.2%, this marks a number of significant achievements for the project as it becomes Scotland’s first BREEAM Outstanding-certified office building, Scotland’s highestrated BREEAM building across all

NEW HOMES AT THE BRICKWORKS MUSEUM SITE NOW READY FOR CUSTOMERS

VIVID has completed its redevelopment of the historic Brickworks Museum site in Bursledon, with 12 new affordable homes now ready for customers.

Working in partnership with Imperial Homes, the 2- and 3-bedroom houses are built using traditional Flemish bond brickwork — a nod to the cottage-style homes once lived in by brickworks employees. The homes offer a blend of heritage and modern living, designed to meet local housing needs through a mix of social rent and shared ownership.

The land was purchased from The Brickworks Museum, allowing the renovation and preservation of two

Grade II listed Victorian brick drying sheds. Built in 1897, these historic structures were once part of a bustling site that produced over 20 million bricks a year.

This development brings everything full circle—breathing new life into the very place where the bricks that built our homes were once made.

asset classes, and the second highest-scoring completed building refurbishment in the world, according to published BRE records.

In addition to such other accreditations as NABERS 5*, “Platinum” scores for Air-Rated and Active Score, and an EPC “A”, the building is designed to achieve net zero carbon operation status in accordance with the UK Green Building Council’s framework definition.

Designed by MLA Architects, the redevelopment of 30 Semple Street comprised the strip-back to bare frame of the former office building on the site, the addition of two new floors, as well as a stunning 360-degree contemporary façade. The building has flexible floorplates up to 8,040 sq. ft. and an abundance of natural light and opening windows.

The design team also included mechanical and electrical engineering consultancy K J Tait, project management and cost consultancy Axiom Services Limited, structural and civil engineering consultancy Blyth & Blyth, and Atelier Ten as fire engineering consultants. Ogilvie Construction was the main contractor.

Cuthbert White and Knight Frank are marketing the remaining 25,000 sq. ft. of space in the property.

TOPPING OUT CEREMONY MARKS MILESTONE IN MULTIMILLION-POUND BRADFORD COLLEGE BUILDING PROJECT

Bradford College marked a significant milestone as governors and special guests gathered at the £19.3 million Junction Mills development for a commemorative topping-out ceremony.

The college event celebrated the highest point of the building’s structure being put in place, signalling the next phase of work to create a cutting-edge training facility for automotive, digital, and engineering skills.

Set to open its doors to students in 2026, the four-storey building has been made possible thanks to £17.8 million from the Department for Education Further Education Capital Transformation Fund (FECTF) and a £1.5 million College contribution. Morgan Sindall Construction is building the new facility.

Attendees included Bradford College governors, project delivery staff, and a group of current Level 2 Motor Vehicle students who will move to the new building on completion. After donning their safety gear, the group listened to a project briefing by Morgan Sindall’s Project Manager, Dan Marsh.

The group then toured the Thornton Road construction site, discussing internal spaces and their intended uses, construction methodology and logistics, and information about project-specific challenges. At the top of Junction Mills, the group signed the structural steel frame before the ‘topping out’ of the

building, with Vice Principal Chris Malish assisting with the laying of a roof ballast.

Once completed, the Bradford College Automotive and Digital Engineering Department will relocate from Bowling Back Lane to the premises, with as many as 650 students potentially enrolling at the Centre. Junction Mills will offer skills in new technologies, such as modern automotive and digital engineering, electric/hybrid vehicles and advanced manufacturing. The Centre will be vital in supporting the growth of technology and lowcarbon skills capability within West Yorkshire.

The project has already been awarded a Morgan Sindall platinum standard for carbon savingsthe first in the Yorkshire region. Currently, a total of 182 tonnes of carbon has been saved, which is equivalent to heating 67 UK homes annually.

The next phase of the project will include further watertightness works, window installation, completion of the Steel Framing System (SFS) and Cement Particle Boarding, and the continuation of super-structure brickwork.

FIRST NEW HOMES EMERGING AS PART OF MAJOR NEW PARK VILLAGE ESTATE REGENERATION

The first new homes as part of City of Wolverhampton Council’s transformation of New Park Village estate are emerging from the ground.

Chosen construction partner, Keon Homes, is currently constructing seven new wheelchair accessible council bungalows on Longford Road, which are expected to be completed in spring 2026.

It is part of a major redevelopment of council housing in the area that will also see 205 outdated 1960s maisonettes, within eight linked deck-access blocks, flattened and replaced with 188 new energy-efficient homes over two phases.

Phase one demolition has been completed by DSM Demolition, and the site has been handed over to Keon Homes, who are undertaking intensive underground surveys and liaising with utility companies to work through the complex water, gas, electricity and telecommunications layouts. Enabling works are expected to start later this year, with construction beginning in spring 2026.

The regeneration will provide new two, three and four-bedroom council homes for rent, as well as increased car parking and improved public open space at the heart of the estate, which will include a children’s play area, green gym and seating.

Pictured L-R: Sarah Stone, Secretary of New Park Village Committee and Resident Steering Group Member, Steve Spencer, Member of New Park Village Committee and Resident Steering Group Member, Matt Beckley, Partnerships Director at Keon Homes, Cllr Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, Esther Gogo-Hassan, Vice Chair of New Park Village Committee and Resident Steering Group Member, and Cameron Aziz, New Park Village TMC Housing Services Manager

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Safety, Security & Fire Prevention

THE POWER OF INTEGRATION: TRANSFORMING SECURITY FOR COMMERCIAL AND CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

By Paul Fitzgerald (right), Managing Director, HKC and Pip Courcoux (below), Technical and Product Director, Abloy UK.

The convergence of technologies in the built environment has accelerated in recent years. As security threats have become more sophisticated and expectations around safety, compliance and operational efficiency have grown, there has been a greater demand for integration.

One area seeing a rapid shift is the integration between access control and intruder alarm systems. Research shows having an access control system that can be integrated into a comprehensive security solution is of key importance to industry professionals.

In fact, 93% of respondents stated open architecture and interoperability was either very or somewhat important when specifying an access control system. A different study also found 27% of the existing access control hardware market was already integrated into either a building management system or physical security information management platform.

This evolution is not only enhancing security provisions but also delivering measurable benefits for commercial

premises and critical infrastructure sites alike.

A new integrated approach

Traditionally, access control and intruder alarms have been treated as separate entities - installed, managed and maintained independently. But this fragmented approach can lead to inefficiencies, higher operational costs, and critical gaps in security coverage.

In contrast, integration enables these systems to communicate in real time, providing a holistic overview of a site’s status and enabling faster, smarter responses to potential security threats or breaches.

For example, an access control system can instantly disable a user’s credentials if an intruder alarm is triggered or restrict access to specific doors or areas during a lockdown event. This level of interaction not only enhances safety but also ensures that protocols are automatically enforced, reducing reliance on human intervention.

For commercial buildings, the benefits are clear. Integrated systems support streamlined building management, helping facilities teams monitor occupancy, track movements, and ensure compliance with fire safety protocols, all from a single interface. They also support efficient staff workflows and reduce downtime in the event of a security incident, since alerts and access restrictions are deployed automatically.

In critical infrastructure environment, where uninterrupted operations and stringent regulatory compliance are paramount, the stakes are even higher. Here, integrated solutions can offer layered protection, ensuring that only authorised personnel gain access, and that any breach triggers an immediate and proportionate response. Importantly, these systems can also deliver comprehensive audit trails, which are essential for both internal governance and external inspections.

User demand

The shift toward integration is being driven not just by technology providers, but by end users demanding more intuitive, intelligent systems.

Security teams want to move beyond reactive alerts and into a realm of proactive management, where data is centralised, risks are identified early, and the system supports rather than hinders day-to-day operations.

HKC Security and Abloy UK have seen this change firsthand. HKC’s SecureWave 10270 panel has been designed with tools to help the professional installer deliver integrated solutions to the customer, allowing seamless connectivity with certain access control and fogging systems.

Meanwhile, Abloy’s SMARTair access control solution offers a flexible, scalable way to control movement throughout a building, and can be linked with alarm systems to enhance situational awareness.

As integration becomes the new standard, it’s clear that collaboration - both between technologies and between suppliers - is key to delivering more secure, efficient and future-ready environments. Whether it’s a highrise office building or a high-security utilities site, the message is the same: integrated security isn’t just better, it’s essential.

Accredited courses, expert trainers, and handson learning.

LEADING THE FIRESTOPPING CONVERSATION: QUELFIRE RETURNS TO LONDON BUILD 2025

Quelfire is a leading UK manufacturer of firestopping solutions for service penetrations in buildings. With a rigorous testing programme, awardwinning customer support, and over 600 tested details, the company helps customers find accurate, compliant solutions for even the most unique scenarios.

The company’s main mission is to educate the construction industry, which is why Quelfire’s team offers free training sessions, including early engagement consultations, product overviews, and its CPD titled, “Effective Passive Fire Protection for Service Penetrations in Buildings.”

The safest choice should always be the easiest choice. To support this, Quelfire makes its resources – including product documentation and its wide range of tested details – readily available for download at any time on its website. Additionally, Quelfire provides a library of YouTube videos that can be accessed 24/7 with a single click of a button.

Since the Grenfell tragedy, knowledge sharing has become more important than ever to bridge the gap between key stakeholders and ensure buildings are designed with the safety of the end user in mind.

Exhibitions like London Build support this mission and help the industry communicate in ways that everyday activities can’t match.

Team Orange is once again set to join the conversation at London Build 2025, where they’ll be on hand to support visitors and answer any questions.

As part of the ongoing “Because It’s Your Job to Know” campaign, this year’s stand will showcase Quelfire’s products before and after fire exposure, giving visitors a real-world look at how they perform and ‘what good looks like’.

As usual, the team will have product examples prepared for discussion, and the technical team will be available to help with any complex questions.

Quelfire provides a library of YouTube videos that can be accessed 24/7 with a single click of a button.

On the second day of the show, November 20th at 2 pm, Craig Wells, Quelfire’s Sales Director, will lead a panel discussion titled, “Gateway 2 Submissions: What We Know Now.” He will be joined by other industry professionals to share their experiences and insights.

Quelfire’s presence at London Build aims to stress the importance of collaboration and early engagement in construction projects, and to highlight the benefits, such as reduced risks, lower costs, and minimised rework.

To learn more about early engagement, visit Quelfire on stand N35 at Olympia London on November 19th and 20th, 2025. Because It’s Your Job to Know!

EXHIBITING AT LONDON BUILD 2025

19 and 20 November 2025 | Olympia London | Stand N35 th th

WE TEST…

Because evidence matters.

Because it enables us to respond more quickly.

Because offering transparency helps educate our customers.

Because it’s our job to inform best practice.

Because it’s our job to offer guidance.

Because firestopping is complex.

Because results are worth sharing. Because people matter.

WE SHARE… BECAUSE IT’S YOUR JOB TO KNOW.

Download our White Paper, ‘Early Engagement in Firestopping’ at quelfire.co.uk/campaign

The sooner, the better.

Scan here

Show Preview: London Build 2025

LONDON BUILD EXPO MARKS 10 YEARS WITH ITS BIGGEST EDITION YET - CELEBRATE

WITH THE UK’S ENTIRE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

London Build 2025 returns to Olympia’s Grand and National Halls on November 19th and 20th to celebrate 10 years of connecting the construction industry. To mark the milestone, this year’s event will offer more networking innovation, and community building than ever before.

Why Attend London Build 2025?

As the UK’s largest and most prestigious construction event, London Build is where the entire built environment comes together. With 38,000+ attendees, 750+ inspiring speakers, 450+ leading exhibitors, and 12 CPD stages, it’s your chance to connect with decision-makers shaping the future of the industry.

Who Will You Meet?

London Build attracts senior professionals across every sector of the industry, including contractors, architects, developers, housebuilders, civil engineers, government representatives, and major suppliers. Attendees include leading names such as:

• Architects:

Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, BDP, David Chipperfield Architects, Foster + Partners, Grimshaw Architects, Hawkins\Brown, HOK, Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, Sheppard Robson, WilkinsonEyre, Zaha Hadid Architects.

• Developers & House Builders: Barratt Developments, Bellway Homes, Berkeley Group, Countryside Properties, Crest Nicholson, L&Q Group, Legal & General Homes, McCarthy & Stone,

Notting Hill Genesis, Persimmon Homes, Redrow, Taylor Wimpey.

• Civil Engineers:

AECOM UK, Arup Group, AtkinsRealis, BDP Engineering, Buro Happold, Cundall, Faithful+Gould, Jacobs UK, Mott MacDonald, Pell Frischmann, Ramboll UK, Stantec UK, Sweco UK, Tony Gee and Partners, Waterman Group, WSP UK.

• Government:

Greater London Authority, Homes England, Transport for London, Network Rail, Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities, City of London Corporation, National Highways, HS2, London Boroughs including Westminster and Southwark.

As the UK’s largest and most prestigious construction event, London Build is where the entire built environment comes together.

• Exhibiting Companies include:

Acrow Bridge, Chelsea FC, Chevron, Hempel, Houzz Pro, Howdens, HSS Hire, Laing O’Rourke, Peel Ports Group, Saint-Gobain Group, Sherwin-Williams, Skanska, Southern Renewals Enterprise/ VolkerFitzpatrick, Technal, Toyota, Volker Wessels, Wates Group.

What You’ll Gain from Attending:

• Discover the latest products, solutions, and technologies driving the industry forward.

• Earn CPD points while learning from top architects, contractors, developers, and thought leaders.

• Network face-to-face with thousands of senior decision-makers, potential partners, and new clients.

• Celebrate 10 years of London Build with special anniversary events, competitions, and unique experiences across the show.

Event Details:

Dates: 19th November (9:30 am –4:30 pm) & 20th November (9:30 am – 5:00 pm)

Venue: Olympia (Grand & National Halls), Hammersmith Rd, London W14 8UX

Register: Visit www.londonbuildexpo.com to receive your free attendee pass and explore the full event programme.

Show Preview: London Build 2025

BULL PRODUCTS TO SHOWCASE FIRE 360° AT LONDON BUILD 2025

Bull Products will be exhibiting at London Build on 19–20 November on stand M50, where the company’s industry-leading Fire 360° service will take centre stage as a cornerstone of its commitment to construction site safety and compliance. This end-to-end fire protection solution has been developed to deliver systems and services that meet and exceed statutory requirements, with a focus on 100% compliance, reliability, and seamless support.

Fire 360° streamlines fire safety on construction sites across the length and breadth of mainland UK with an allencompassing fire safety solution. Fire 360° guides projects seamlessly through every major phase: from pre-construction fire protection strategy, through fire protection execution, to service and maintenance, and ongoing asset management. This approach ensures robust protection and 100% compliance at every stage, offering peace of mind from project inception to completion and beyond.

Bull Products’ fire detection and alarm range includes SITENET, a fully EN 54-certified solution developed in accordance with best practices outlined by HSE (HSG 168), JCoP, and UKTFA. As a BAFE-registered organisation, Bull

Products ensures that every customer benefits from expert support, with a dedicated team, including sales and service coordinators and CSCS-certified engineers, providing guidance and hands-on assistance throughout the process. Fire 360° delivers more than just equipment, from project start to end it offers 100% compliance, peace of mind, and support for sustainability goals by helping to reduce carbon footprint and operational costs.

As part of the event, Bull Products will be hosting a panel talk, ‘Fire 360° in Practice: Compliance, Regulation, and Sustainable Safety in Construction’, at the Building Security Stage, 10:00 -10:50 on 19th November. Attendees will gain valuable real-world insights into how Fire 360° streamlines fire safety on construction sites.

Visitors to the Bull Products stand will also learn more about the fire alarm product pyramid, featuring SITENET, SITEPROTECT, and SITEEVAC+. These systems are based on wireless mesh technology and are designed to address the diverse requirements and budgets of the construction industry. They also all bear the Made in Britain collective mark, an elemental part of Bull Products’ pledge to a more sustainable future.

On display will be SITENET, the only system on the market that is fully compliant with JCoP and HSG168. This fully EN 54 certified and wireless mesh intelligent fire detection and alarm system is built on patented self-forming, self-healing wireless mesh technology with multipath network redundancy and innovative channel hopping technology. SITENET provides a single integrated site-wide fire detection and alarm solution to meet the diverse needs of complex construction sites. Bull Products is the only provider offering a fully EN 54 certified fire detection and alarm solution for both internal and external spaces.

SITEPROTECT provides a versatile wireless mesh fire detection and alarm system that utilises EN 54-5 and EN 54-7 certified detector heads, encompassing wireless emergency fire, first aid, intruder, and lockdown alarms for complete site safety. The SITEPROTECT Lockdown alarm system, originally developed for the education sector, is also suitable for large public venues such as shopping centres, where rapid response to critical events is essential.

SITEEVAC+ is a wireless mesh fire detection and alarm system designed for cost-sensitive projects, allowing up to 50 devices across three zones. This easy-to-install and use system is ideal for housebuilders and developers, utilising EN 54-5 and EN 54-7 certified detector heads to maintain essential functionality without compromising quality.

Show Preview: London Build 2025

360° 100% Compliance

Two Calls, Total Control.

FIVE REASONS WHY LONDON BUILD 2025 MATTERS FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

London Build has grown beyond a trade show — it’s now a catalyst for industry change. Nowhere is this clearer than in its Women in Construction (WIC) focus, which champions equality, visibility, and lasting progress.

For 2025, London Build has pledged a 50:50 gender split across its speaker line-up — setting a new benchmark for representation. On the Diversity & Inclusion Stage, this commitment

ensures that panels reflect diverse voices, experiences, and leadership perspectives.

Beyond visibility, the event drives advocacy through its Ambassador Programme. Open to anyone passionate about equity in the built environment, it offers resources, public recognition via the “Wall of Fame,” and opportunities to shape live discussions — turning allyship into action.

This year also marks the launch of the WIC Resource Library, a practical online hub featuring guides like Breaking Barriers: Women in Construction Share Their Journeys and How to Network with Confidence. Combined with a dedicated LinkedIn group, it offers ongoing mentorship and community beyond the show.

London Build’s partnerships with NAWIC, Women in BIM, Modern Women, and WISH strengthen its reach — connecting attendees with established networks that sustain progress throughout the year.

More than ever, London Build 2025 embodies a shift from representation to inclusion. By combining resources, allyship, and real collaboration, it’s helping to build an industry where women don’t just enter construction — they thrive, lead, and inspire lasting change.

www.londonbuildexpo.com/womenin-construction

“SKILL, BABY, SKILL” –

NHBC

WARNS

HOUSING TARGETS AT RISK WITHOUT URGENT SKILLS PUSH

The Government’s new mantra to “build, baby, build” must be matched with a national effort to “skill, baby, skill,” the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) Chief Operating Officer David Campbell will warn at the Labour Party Conference on Sunday.

The call follows Housing Secretary Steve Reed’s vow to deliver 1.5 million new homes by bringing together developers and housebuilders to accelerate construction. But Mr Campbell will warn that without a significant expansion of the workforce, these targets will be difficult to achieve.

“We welcome ‘build, baby, build,’ but we need to ‘skill, baby, skill’ to ensure we have the workforce needed,” he will say.

£100m investment in training hubs

NHBC is investing £100m in 12 multiskill training hubs across the UK, each training 3,000 apprentices a year in

trades such as bricklaying, groundworks and site carpentry. Its first hub in Lichfield, developed with CITB and Barratt Redrow, is already open.

“More than 250,000 extra construction workers will be needed by 2028 just to meet current demand,” Mr Campbell will say.

“That’s why we must get moving now. You can’t create a skilled workforce overnight.”

Training apprentices in near-real site conditions and to NHBC standards, hubs are delivering qualified tradespeople in 14 to 18 months – nearly half the time of traditional education routes. With a 90% retention rate, most are expected to remain in the house-building sector.

Collaboration needed

NHBC also warns build quality is at risk without more skilled workers, highlighting the historic link between rising volumes and falling satisfaction. Mr Campbell will welcome government investment in skills but stress that collaboration between industry and government is essential.

“Together, we can build the homes this country needs and ensure they are built to the highest standards,” he will conclude.

WHAT THE NEW HOMES SECTOR NEEDS FROM GOVERNMENT TO BOOST DELIVERY

By Tim Foreman, Managing Director of Land and New Homes, LRG

The appointment of a new Secretary of State for Housing offers a chance to reset the agenda. Steve Reed has wasted little time urging developers to “build, baby, build”. His ambition to accelerate delivery is welcome, but ambition alone will not shift the numbers.

Housebuilding is stalling. Planning approvals are down, completions are falling, and confidence is subdued. While government remains committed to 1.5 million homes this Parliament, we are well off track. Developers face rising costs, more regulation, slower planning and constrained demand – a system increasingly misaligned with reality.

Figures underline the challenge. The S&P Global Construction PMI shows the steepest drop in activity since the

pandemic. Housing starts have lagged completions for six quarters. The OBR forecasts just 192,000 completions in 2026 – far below the 300,000 per year target.

Demand for homes remains strong, but transactions are weak because firsttime buyers are locked out. The average property costs ten times average salary, while deposits and mortgage costs remain prohibitive. Developers cannot accelerate delivery without viable demand.

At the same time, costs are rising. Requirements for affordable housing, biodiversity net gain, new building safety standards and infrastructure contributions all add up. For land bought before these obligations, many sites no longer stack up financially.

What can government do? First, restore demand from first-time buyers. While a return of Help to Buy is unlikely, a targeted equity loan scheme could

unlock chains and boost confidence. A more ambitious mortgage guarantee scheme, backed by better promotion, would help too.

Tax reform could also support delivery. While new builds are zero-rated for VAT, many associated costs are not. Cutting these would make marginal sites viable. Investment in skills is also critical: the HBF estimates 239,000 new recruits are needed in five years, yet support for training remains limited.

Finally, planning must be faster and more predictable, with clearer timelines and more flexible application of affordable housing and environmental requirements.

The housing sector is ready to deliver. With decisive action to ease regulation, support buyers and restore confidence, government could create the conditions for success. Without it, the target of 1.5 million homes risks becoming another missed opportunity.

FINTECH INNOVATION IS RESHAPING SITE SPENDING AND SUSTAINABILITY with James Rowell, founder of Capture Expense

James Rowell is the founder of Capture Expense, a fintech platform built to simplify and modernise financial workflows in construction. With a background in digital transformation and a focus on real-time data capture, James has spent his career helping firms replace outdated, manual processes with tools that deliver speed, control, and compliance.

At a time when many SMEs still rely on spreadsheets, paper receipts, and fuel cards, James is championing fintech as a way to bring automation, visibility, and sustainability directly into site-level decision-making. From linking project spend to cost codes at the point of purchase, to enabling instant subcontractor payments with full compliance, he sees technology as a driver of efficiency and resilience in an industry facing mounting regulatory, financial, and ESG pressures.

In this interview, James shares his insights on how fintech is evolving in construction, the inefficiencies it can solve, and the role it will play in enabling sustainable practices and stronger compliance in the years ahead.

How is fintech used in construction today, and how will it evolve over the next five to ten years?

While fintech is beginning to make its mark in construction, adoption remains uneven, especially among SMEs, many of which still rely on spreadsheets, email, paper receipts, and fuel cards to manage site spending. However, larger firms are beginning to embrace more advanced tools like virtual cards, expense apps, invoice automation, and ERP integrations.

However, the real value lies in controlling site spend at the point of purchase and ensuring coded data flows directly into the job ledger without delay.

Looking ahead, the next five to ten years will bring a shift toward real-time financial workflows. Purchases will be instantly tied to specific projects, cost codes, and budgets at the moment of payment. Virtual cards will be issued per project and supplier, with approvals happening via mobile messaging apps like WhatsApp or Teams, ultimately making the process more intuitive and accessible.

AI will automate the reading and matching of delivery notes, receipts, and purchase orders, significantly reducing manual intervention, while still allowing for human oversight where needed. Even subcontractor payments will become instant, with compliance checks running seamlessly in the background.

Where are the biggest inefficiencies in traditional workflows, and how can fintech fix them?

The biggest inefficiencies stem from an over-reliance on manual processes like spreadsheets and long email chains. Site managers often make ad hoc purchases,

receipts go missing, and coding is delayed (sometimes by weeks) which causes month-end processes to drift. Approvals are manual and scattered across inboxes. Petty cash and fuel cards often sit outside the finance system, leading to VAT errors, especially with reverse charge complexities, which I’m sure is something that everyone wants to avoid.

Adopting fintech solutions can help address these issues by shifting control to the start of the process. Mobile capture at the point of spend helps to ensure data accuracy, which is a huge help for finance teams. Card controls can be linked to cost codes and budgets, and OCR technology is now reliable enough to automate much of the data entry. Approvals happen in-app with a clear audit trail, and receipts are automatically matched to transactions. Data posts directly into the ERP with correct tax treatment, resulting in faster month-end close, fewer reclassifications, and tighter budget control.

What role can fintech play in ESG and carbon tracking?

Fintech can play a pivotal role in ESG reporting by turning everyday expense and purchasing data into actionable carbon insights. Capturing merchant details, spend categories, mileage, and travel modes at the point of purchase allows for automatic conversion into emissions data. This enables firms to set carbon budgets per project, surface environmental impact during approvals, and encourage more sustainable choices, such as rail over short-haul flights.

The same dataset also supports supplier transparency and waste reduction, all without introducing new manual processes. It’s simply a matter of capturing better data at the point of spend.

How will regulatory compliance impact adoption?

Regulatory compliance is a key driver of fintech adoption in construction.

AI will automate the reading and matching of delivery notes, receipts, and purchase orders, significantly reducing manual intervention, while still allowing for human oversight where needed.

Firms are increasingly seeking providers that can handle UK VAT rules, including reverse charge, as well as CIS workflows for subcontractors, PSD2 banking standards, GDPR, and certifications like ISO 27001. Data residency and retention policies are now central to procurement decisions.

Fintech tools that ensure correct coding by default and maintain a full audit trail help reduce risk and exposure to HMRC scrutiny. These are board-level concerns, and as a result, compliant fintech solutions are becoming the safer, more strategic choice. These solutions are not only helping firms reduce audit risk and improve governance but also help them build trust with clients and regulators.

This goes a long way in protecting the business and also strengthens its competitive position in a compliancedriven market.

What advice for firms starting their fintech journey, and what should they look for in a provider?

Start with the areas that cause the most pain but require the least disruption. Site purchasing and expenses are ideal; they impact cost, control, and speed without needing to replace your ERP.

When choosing a provider, look for:

1. Native project and cost code tagging - multi-entity support, and correct UK VAT handling, including reverse charge and CIS.

2. User experience on site - the solution should work on any phone and integrate with apps like WhatsApp or Teams for offline access and simple capture.

3. Controls - per-project budgets, merchant/category rules, and approval workflows that align with your governance.

4. Integrations - proven connectors to your ERP, with clean data posting and no manual rework.

5. Security and compliance - ISO 27001, GDPR, and clear data ownership and exit terms.

6. Time to value - a good vendor should be able to launch a pilot in 4–6 weeks with measurable outcomes.

www.captureexpense.com

Bricks & Blocks

Common bricks

DIFFERENT TYPES OF BRICKS AND THEIR USES

At first glance, most clay bricks appear similar, but beyond colour and texture lies a world of difference. Bricks are manufactured to meet distinct structural and aesthetic requirements, ensuring buildings are safe, durable and visually appropriate for their setting.

This overview introduces the most common brick types, their key characteristics and where they’re typically used.

Facing bricks

These are the visible bricks used on external or feature walls, where appearance is as important as performance. Despite their aesthetic role, they must also demonstrate excellent compressive strength, thermal performance and long-term durability.

There are four main manufacturing methods for facing bricks, each producing distinct finishes::

• Extruded (wirecut) bricks are formed by pushing clay through a die and cutting it to size with a wire. The resulting bricks can be perforated or

solid, with perforations helping to reduce weight and fuel costs.

• Waterstruck bricks use water to stop clay sticking to the die, resulting in a rougher, more rustic texture.

• Stock bricks are moulded with a frog (a hollow depression) to make them lighter.

• Handmade bricks are created by throwing sand-coated clay into a mould, giving each brick a unique texture and colour.

At Michelmersh, facing bricks are central to our product range, from high-volume options for large housing developments to bespoke handmade bricks for specialist or heritage projects.

Engineering bricks

Less visible but vital to structural integrity, engineering bricks offer exceptional compressive strength and low water absorption. These properties make them ideal for foundations, retaining walls, tunnels and other civil works exposed to pressure, moisture and temperature changes.

Despite their name, common bricks are often used in limited applications. They’re more economical due to lower-grade materials and simpler manufacturing, resulting in a rougher texture and less consistent colour. Typically used where surfaces will be plastered or rendered, they’re common in internal walls and secondary layers.

Special types of bricks

Certain applications demand more specific designs:

• Special bricks (brick specials) are purpose-shaped to suit particular architectural requirements, such as angles or curves. They may be extruded, handmade or cut to shape after firing.

• Clay pavers are laid horizontally for pathways or courtyards. Tested for slip, frost and abrasion resistance, they perform well under foot or light vehicle traffic.

• Air bricks available in clay, plastic or metal, provide ventilation through perforations that prevent damp and decay in sub-floor spaces.

• Fire bricks are made from heatresistant materials like alumina and silica, suitable for furnaces, chimneys, barbecues and pizza ovens.

Britain’s brick specialists

If you’re searching for more information about the best types of bricks to use on your project, we have multiple resources that can help. Our fully customisable Façade Designer tool allows you to create your own brick façade with our full range of products to visualise your perfect project. You can also learn more about clay bricks and get an accredited CPD certificate from our event ‘Right Brick, First Time’—contact us for more details and booking.

www.mbhplc.co.uk

sales@mbhplc.co.uk

0844 931 0022

HOW TO MANAGE AND REDUCE LEGIONELLA RISK IN A MIXED PROPERTY PORTFOLIO

By Charlie Brain, Senior Consultant, Water Hygiene Centre

Managing Legionella risk is rarely simple — and becomes even more complex when dealing with multiple, varied properties. This article explores how organisations can reduce risk effectively across a diverse estate.

ACoP L8 Guidance

All organisations must, as stated in ACoP L8:

(a) identify and assess sources of risk;

(b) prepare a written scheme for preventing or controlling the risk;

(c) implement, manage and monitor precautions;

(d) keep water safety records;

(e) appoint a competent person.

This can be straightforward in a single building, but more challenging across multiple, varied sites.

Different buildings, different management needs

Factors that can differ include:

• Size and complexity of systems

• Frequency of use

• Susceptibility of occupants

• Different management structures

• Building location

Organisations with multiple sites may centralise policies, training and contractors, but each building still requires tailored consideration.

Assessing the need for a Legionella Risk Assessment

A useful first step is a property risk screen, which categorises buildings by risk based on occupant susceptibility, exposure duration and system type. This helps prioritise risk assessments, highlight where controls are needed and identify properties requiring minimal management.

Risk assessments indicate a building’s inherent risk, ensuring control measures are proportionate and clarifying potential exposure if controls fail. Smaller, simpler systems with low-risk occupants require less oversight, while larger or more complex systems demand more resources.

Residential Accommodation vs Healthcare

The HSE offers simplified tasks for residential accommodation (HSG 274, part 2). By contrast, healthcare sites must follow stricter HTM guidance due to patient vulnerability. For mixed portfolios, resources can be focused on higher-risk healthcare sites, while applying lighter measures to offices or staff accommodation.

Legionella Written Scheme of Control and Water Safety Plans

ACoP L8 requires a document outlining risk systems and how they will be managed. Creating individual schemes for each building may be unmanageable, so many organisations adopt a broader water safety plan supported by asset registers.

The most challenging aspect is often scheduling maintenance and keeping accurate records.

Creating a logbook

Once control measures are set, a logbook of maintenance tasks is formed, covering activities such as:

• Monthly temperature checks

• Flushing infrequently used outlets

• Shower cleaning

• TMV servicing

• Water sampling records

Traditionally, these were paper-based at each site, but auditing them across portfolios is difficult. Digital logbooks now allow central access, real-time updates by contractors, and data analysis through dashboards and reports, making management more efficient.

Striving for consistency

The more varied a property portfolio, the harder it is to manage. Total uniformity is impossible, but consistency helps: using the same risk assessor, training provider, logbook format and record-keeping system across all sites simplifies oversight. Technology can further streamline processes, but it’s a clear management framework and proportionate resource allocation that make the biggest difference.

By recognising the differences across buildings yet applying consistent standards where possible, organisations can not only meet regulatory requirements but also protect the health and safety of all building users.

Drainage & Plumbing

SLOT DRAINAGE FOR READING’S

NEW URBAN GATEWAY

Blending Performance and Design

A brand-new public space has opened in Reading as part of the £850 million Station Hill redevelopment — and behind its clean, modern look is a smart and efficient drainage system. Designed for high foot traffic and visual harmony, this public realm now features our slot grating system combined with the MultiV200 drainage channel.

Installed across key pedestrian zones, this solution supports both surface water management and architectural integrity — making it a perfect match for one of the UK’s most ambitious urban regeneration projects.

Why Slot Grating? Seamless Design, Strong Performance

Slot grating is increasingly the drainage choice for public spaces, plazas, and pedestrian routes, and for good reason. At Station Hill, it provides the ideal balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Here’s what makes slot grating stand out:

• Discreet Appearance

With only a slim surface opening visible, slot drainage integrates beautifully into paved surfaces. It maintains the visual flow of the landscape — no bulky metal grates, no visual clutter.

• Safe for All Users

Designed with narrow openings, the system reduces trip hazards and accommodates all pedestrians, including those using mobility aids or pushchairs.

• High Drainage Capacity

Under the surface, the MultiV200 channel works hard to capture and direct runoff efficiently. It’s engineered for urban areas that experience large volumes of rainfall and foot traffic.

• Compliant and Durable

Fully compliant with BS EN 1433, the system is suitable for load classes up to D400 — making it tough enough for occasional vehicle access without compromising design.

MultiV200: Built for Urban Environments

At the heart of the system is the MultiV200 channel, known for its design, high hydraulic capacity, and ease of installation. Its wide internal dimensions help handle greater water volumes, while the V-shape profile increases flow velocity — reducing sediment build-up and improving self-cleaning.

For a landscape like Station Hill — with mixed gradients, planted areas, and a 4-metre level change — this kind of adaptability is essential.

A Better Urban Experience

Station Hill has transformed an underused part of central Reading into a welcoming, walkable space with green areas, seating, public art, and improved connections to the town centre. The drainage system may be invisible — but it plays a key role in keeping this space functional, safe, and looking its best in all weather conditions.

Looking to Improve Drainage in Your Public Space Project?

Our slot grating and MultiV200 system is the ideal choice for architects, engineers, and urban developers who want performance without compromising design.

Get in touch with our team to learn more or request technical specifications. Make the Right Choice for Your Drainage System

Contact ULMA today for expert guidance and reliable, high-performance drainage solutions.

WHY PVC BEADS ARE THE SUPERIOR CHOICE FOR COASTAL CONDITIONS

Life on the coast has its perks — nice views, fresh sea air, and an abundance of ice cream parlours. However, for builders and architects, the seaside also presents some serious challenges. The salty breeze and sea spray can wreak havoc on building materials, causing rapid corrosion, especially to steel components.

Render is often used on coastal houses to protect the substrate from the elements but staining from rusty steel beading, which is used to reinforce the edges and create attractive straight finishes, can spoil the look. Thankfully, there is a solution that stands up to the harsh coastal environment: PVC render beads. These beads offer longlasting protection and performance, outperforming their steel counterparts for a finish that endures.

Why do coastal conditions cause such severe corrosion?

The main culprits behind the rapid corrosion of steel near the coast are moisture and salt. When these substances combine with metal, they speed up the rusting process significantly. Steel exposed to salty air corrodes up to ten times faster than it would in typical inland conditions with normal humidity. This makes the choice of materials for coastal construction projects crucial, as the wrong choice can lead to rapid deterioration and costly repairs.

The effects of corrosion aren’t just a cosmetic issue. While rust from steel beads can cause unattractive stains on facades, the damage goes deeper. Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of the facade, and what starts as a minor issue can evolve into a major problem, requiring significant investment to fix or replace affected materials.

Top: A UK coastal residential street with a clean rendered house exposed to the seafront

Above: Sovereign Quay, Cardiff, an example of a coastal building where Renderplas PVC render beads have been used

What counts as coastal conditions?

Determining what qualifies as a coastal environment can be tricky. The impact of saltwater and salt air depends on a range of factors, including local geography, weather patterns, and wave heights. The more exposed an area is, the more likely it is to face harsh coastal conditions.

As a rule of thumb, any location within about 5 km of the sea is considered to be exposed to coastal conditions. Buildings within 500 metres are at even greater risk.

For a nation like the UK, which is surrounded by water, this means a significant portion of land — including many large cities — can experience these effects. Builders working in these areas need to be aware of the heightened risks and choose materials accordingly.

The best materials for coastal construction

Standards such as BS EN 139141:2016 advise using corrosionresistant materials for rendering in

marine environments. While marinegrade stainless steel is one option, it is often prohibitively expensive. A more cost-effective and durable choice is PVC beads.

Renderplas PVC render beads, for example, are designed specifically for harsh environments and come with a guarantee of at least 25 years of performance, or the complete lifetime of a render.

Unlike steel, PVC does not rust, making it an ideal material for use in coastal areas. It offers the same strength and reliability without the risk of corrosion, ensuring that buildings maintain their appearance and structural integrity over time. Additionally, PVC beads are easy to install and require little maintenance, saving time and money on projects, and can be manufactured from up to 100% recycled PVC to reduce a project’s carbon footprint.

A superior choice

Building in coastal areas presents unique challenges, but choosing the right materials can make all the difference. While stainless steel may seem like a solid choice, the rapid corrosion it faces in salty conditions makes it less ideal. PVC render beads, such as those offered by Renderplas, provide a robust, cost-effective alternative that ensures durability and longevity. For builders looking to protect their projects from the ravages of saltwater and salty air, PVC render beads are the superior choice.

Bottom left: Renderplas PVC render beads will not rust and are guaranteed for the full servicelife of the render, or at least 25 years

Bottom right: Examples of building render where steel render beads have been used, which has led to rust leaking into the render, causing unpleasant discolouration and damage

Tools, Plant & Equipment

MODERN EXCAVATORS AND DIGITISATION

By Bart Vingerhoets (pictured right), Senior Commercial Manager at Komatsu Smart Construction

Internet-connected hardware and artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming increasingly important in the construction and earthmoving industry, particularly site management. With advancements in technology, machinery such as excavators are becoming smarter, ultimately enhancing safety and efficiency on construction sites.

Have you found users asking for more technology on their excavator?

There has been a significant push towards digitisation by excavator operators, construction companies and governments. Technology is not only improving the efficiency of excavators but also aiding in increasing safety.

The earthmoving industry as a whole understands the benefits of technology. In Europe, some regions were initially priced out of being early adopters. However, with hardware becoming more cost-efficient, adoption rates are rising. Smart Construction has seen this firsthand, with 38% of its 3D Machine Guidance system sales taking place in East and South Europe.

Customer demands vary depending on region and client size. Many technologies initially adopted in West and North Europe are now being embraced elsewhere. In early adopter countries, the main concern is safety, along with productivity.

Digitally enabled hardware helps teams work more efficiently, make better decisions, and deliver stronger outcomes. For example, Komatsu’s Smart Construction Dashboard creates a digital version of the job site, showing live data on materials, measurements and potential issues.

What do users want the technology for?

Construction companies seek technological advancements to enhance profitability, save time, and reduce costs. Every year, businesses become more eager to improve risk

management and site safety, which digital solutions help facilitate.

Excavator operators benefit directly from incorporating digital solutions into their daily work. These tools save time for managers, enhance problem solving and improve data transfer. This allows more resources to be allocated to oversee multiple sites and communicate with suppliers and clients. Digital construction also enables virtual site inspections, reducing the need for frequent visits and cutting errors and rework.

Komatsu Smart Construction’s

Intelligent Machine Control excavators feature semi-automatic control to eliminate over-digging, avoiding costly re-work—especially crucial when working with different material layers. Teams can respond quickly, solve issues on the go, and avoid delays.

Do you anticipate users’ tech needs changing in the next five years?

The technology needs of excavator users are expected to evolve due to emerging trends. With the growth in digital twin technologies, excavators will play a key role in capturing surveygrade data. Having every bucket or blade move represented in a highly accurate model—such as Komatsu’s Intelligent Machine Control—adds productivity gains.

In 2025 and beyond, smart tech and AI adoption will continue to rise as more cost-effective options enter the market. The global AI in construction market was estimated at £1.3 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach £9.1 billion by 2030.

Digitalisation is making strides across earthmoving. Komatsu Smart Construction recently announced that its Remote solution is now standard with all Komatsu-branded guidance and control systems, promoting interoperability and ease of digital transformation.

Are users asking for additional tech solutions?

Smart Construction reported a 44% adoption increase in its software-asa-service (SaaS) tech from FY2023 to FY2024. Many users now say they couldn’t work without it. While each solution works independently, they deliver enhanced results when used together—such as Dashboard and 3D Machine Guidance.

We maintain close relationships with customers on the job, often turning their feedback into new features and products. In each country we operate, customers actively request to test new solutions based on our performance— like the latest version of Edge, launched last year.

As the industry evolves, we expect users to continue seeking additional technology that integrates with existing systems.

To find out more about digital solutions, visit: smartconstruction.io

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· Ultra easy to use

· Compatible with all common helmets, ear defenders and goggles

MULTI-PROTECTIVE CLOTHING WITH MAXIMUM SAFETY AND OUTSTANDING COMFORT

MASCOT® WORKWEAR has delivered professional workwear across industries for more than 40 years. Now it has launched a new range of multiprotective clothing that combines safety, comfort and freedom of movement in one solution.

Safety and comfort go hand in hand in MASCOT® WORKWEAR’s new range of multi-protective clothing. MASCOT® ACCELERATE MULTISAFE is an innovative multi-protective range that includes hi-vis and non-hi-vis products for use in particularly hazardous environments in the oil, gas and wind industries.

A maximum level of safety when it counts

MASCOT’s many years of experience means they can deliver the highest quality workwear combined with exceptional comfort - without compromise. Employee safety is not just a priority, but a necessity. They need to be confident that their workwear will protect them optimally in any work situation.

MASCOT® ACCELERATE MULTISAFE consists of products that have both antistatic and flame-retardant properties. The majority of the products in MASCOT® ACCELERATE MULTISAFE are certified according to EN 13034 Type 6 meaning the products have protection against liquid chemicals. The products have a PFAS-free surface treatment which helps repel and resist the penetration of sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide.

The range also provides protection against electric arc hazards according to EN 61482-2.

Try the layer-on-layer cladding method to increase overall protection. By using multiple layers of clothing, the overall protection can be higher as each layer helps to absorb and dissipate the energy from an electric arc.

Dope

Dye – Innovative dying method with environmental benefits

In the MASCOT® ACCELERATE MULTISAFE range MASCOT uses the dope dye method on several products to ensure higher colour fastness, equal distribution on dye and to ensure the colour does not wash out over time. All modacrylic in the main fabric of workwear and winter clothing (qualities 281, 284 and 292) in colour 010 – dark navy – is dyed using the dope dye method.

PROWASH® - Industrial washable products

Many products in the range have the PROWASH® label, meaning they are very durable and keep their shape and colour after repeated industrial washes. These products have been tested to ensure that they hold their fit, seam resistance, material strength and shrinkage, while also testing for colour change and smearing.

Ultimate comfort in every movement

With the MASCOT® ACCELERATE MULTISAFE range, MASCOT offers workwear that is so comfortable that it becomes a natural part of everyday life while providing protecting in the event of an accident.

ULTIMATE STRETCH is MASCOT’s term for garments with four-way stretch. This means that the garments are elastic in all directions, taking freedom of movement to new heights. It’s workwear you’ll never want to be without.

A complete solution for every work situation

MASCOT offers a complete solution –workwear in the same design for every work situation. MASCOT can dress the whole company, whether the need is workwear, hi-vis work clothes or multi-protective clothing. The design line across the MASCOT®ACCELERATE, MASCOT®ACCELERATE SAFE AND MASCOT®ACCELERATE MULTISAFE ranges are similar, giving you the opportunity to create a strong, common identify across work tasks and safety requirements.

MASCOT is more than the highest quality products. In addition to the industry’s widest range and high delivery reliability, you get simple and efficient online ordering, customised logo solutions and fast delivery.

Insurance BRICKS, MORTAR AND MALWARE: THE NEW CYBER RISKS FACING PROPERTY MANAGERS

Property management, traditionally focused on tangible assets and service efficiency, now faces a growing challenge: cyber risks. These threats demand a dual focus on physical and digital risk management to ensure operational continuity, tenant safety, and financial health.

Rising Cyber Threats

A 2025 Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) report revealed that 27% of UK buildings experienced cyberattacks in 2024, a 16% year-on-year increase. Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights the need to reassess vulnerabilities and build resilience.

AI and Cyber Fraud

Cybercriminals are exploiting Artificial Intelligence (AI) to target the real estate sector. AI enables the creation of deepfakes, voice cloning, and forged documents, making it harder to distinguish genuine communications from fraudulent ones. The sector’s reliance on trust, urgency, and highvalue transactions makes it particularly vulnerable.

Why Real Estate is a Target

Property transactions involve significant financial transfers among multiple parties, creating opportunities for exploitation. Remote processes and e-signatures, while efficient, expand digital footprints and reduce in-person verification, increasing risks.

Key Cyber Risks

1. Smart Building Vulnerabilities

Modern properties rely on interconnected systems for access control, CCTV,

HVAC, and building management. While automation improves efficiency, it also broadens the attack surface. Cyber-attacks can disrupt essential services, leaving tenants in unsafe or uncomfortable conditions.

2. Financial Fraud

Financial transactions, such as rent collection and vendor payments, are prime targets for scams like Business Email Compromise (BEC). AI-driven scams have become more sophisticated, tricking property managers into redirecting funds to fraudulent accounts.

3. Third-Party Weaknesses

Contractors and facilities management providers often lack robust cybersecurity measures, creating potential back doors for attackers. Shared credentials and unvetted remote access tools exacerbate these risks.

4. Tenant Data Exposure

Digital platforms for rent payments and service requests are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals. Fake apps, phishing emails, and spoofed alerts can lead to data breaches, eroding tenant trust and exposing sensitive information.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Unexpected bank detail change requests.

• Outdated software without a patching schedule.

• Contractors with remote access but no cyber policy.

• Unencrypted service charge communications.

• Staff using personal emails for critical messaging.

Strengthening Cyber Defences

To mitigate risks, property managers should:

• Train Staff: Educate employees on recognising phishing and social engineering attempts.

• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Make MFA mandatory for administrative access and tenant portals.

• Enforce Vendor Protocols: Include cybersecurity clauses in contracts and conduct regular security assessments.

• Verify Payments: Use dual verification for bank detail changes and impose a 48-hour waiting period.

• Update Systems: Replace outdated software and ensure regular patch management.

• Develop Incident Response Plans: Tailor response strategies for each property.

• Report to the Board: Include digital risk in governance updates.

Regulatory and Insurance Changes

Stricter UK regulations and insurance requirements are reshaping how organisations handle cyber threats. Insurers now demand proof of controls like MFA and incident response plans, making cyber resilience essential for insurability.

Conclusion

With the average cyber-attack costing UK businesses £10,830, property managers must prioritise cybersecurity. As building systems become more connected, proactive measures are essential to protect assets, tenants, and operations from evolving threats.

For further information scan the QR code above.

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Reduce average month-end close time by 25–50%.

Minimise busy work and increase time spent on analysis and strategy by 25–75%.

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UK’S TOP TRADESPEOPLE

REVEALED: ON THE TOOLS AWARDS

2025 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

The best of Britain’s construction talent has been unveiled as the finalists for the On The Tools Awards 2025, celebrating the skill, dedication, and innovation shaping the industry.

The shortlist recognises exceptional tradespeople across apprentices, bricklayers, carpenters, bathroom fitters, electricians, and more. Jewson returns as headline sponsor, supporting the awards in shining a spotlight on the people driving the UK’s construction sector forward.

Setting the Standard in Construction

From apprentices beginning their careers to highly experienced craftspeople perfecting decades of expertise, the On The Tools Awards finalists represent the pinnacle of UK construction.

Their achievements demonstrate not only technical skill, but also passion, innovation, and a commitment to raising standards across the industry.

Winners will be revealed at a prestigious awards ceremony in The Midlands later this year, celebrating those who make a tangible impact on their communities, their teams, and the industry as a whole.

Driving the Future of Construction

The On The Tools Awards continue to champion individuals who demonstrate excellence, resilience, and innovation. By highlighting those at the top of their game, the awards inspire young people to consider careers in the trades and shine a national spotlight on the professionalism, creativity, and dedication within the sector.

The finalists have now entered the final stage of the competition, with the winners set to be revealed on 30th October 2025 at a prestigious event at the Vox, Birmingham. The winners will be chosen by a prestigious panel of judges from across the industry, and their scores will be based on their expertise, quality of work, and commitment to their trades.

Visit www.onthetools.tv/awards to find out more.

WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE TOP 100 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION 2025

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is delighted to announce the winners for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2025.

The awards ceremony, which celebrates and honours the outstanding individuals within the sector, took place on 18th September at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.

The ceremony saw Katy Robinson – a Senior Project Manager with East Riding of Yorkshire Council and Campaign Leader for the National

Association of Women in Construction for Yorkshire (NAWIC) - awarded as the UK’s Most Influential Overall.

Deborah Madden, Executive Director, Nations Engagement at CITB said:

“It’s essential that we keep on paving the way for more women to join the industry.

Highlighting some of the trailblazing women already working in construction as inspiration for others is a key route to achieving this. We hope that these awards will encourage more women to consider, and forge, a career in construction. The workforce gap can only be bridged by attracting more people from more diverse

backgrounds to careers in construction – those who might not have traditionally joined the industry – and supporting their growth through training and skills development to retain their talent.”

WINNERS UNVEILED AT THE NATIONAL PROJECT EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2025

Some of the UK’s leading contractors and consultants, including Vinci, RLB, BAM, and Pulse, were among the winners at this year’s National Project Excellence Awards, hosted by the Procure Partnerships Framework at Liverpool’s Titanic Hotel.

The event brought together over 400 contractor, consultant and client partners to celebrate the projects delivered through the framework and the people behind them. Across 15 award categories, a total of 48 projects were shortlisted, recognising excellence in project delivery, innovation, decarbonisation and social impact.

Regional highlights included GRAHAM, which won Project of the Year (North) for Trevelyan Square on behalf of Leeds Trinity University, and Volkerfitzpatrick, which picked up Project of the Year (East) for Cambridge City Council’s sustainable Operations Hub. Danaher & Walsh secured Infrastructure Project of the Year for their work at Waltham Cross, while BAM was recognised with Project of the Year (West) for the Bedworth Physical Activity Hub.

Social value and sustainability took centre stage, Vinci claimed the Social Value Excellence in Action Award for its work with Sefton Council at Bootle Strand, and Tilbury Douglas took home the Social Value Impact Award after generating an impressive £16.4m in social value add while delivering the New Custody Suite for Durham Constabulary.

GSS Architecture, RLB and Bidwells all picked up awards for Consultant of the Year in their respective region, whilst the Multi-Disciplinary Team of the Year award went to Pulse Consult, who led a multidisciplinary team on the supported living accommodation Kingston Lane, on behalf of the London Borough Richmond Upon Thames.

The night’s top honour, Construction Project of the Year, was awarded to Speller Metcalfe for the Edmond Transplant Centre, delivered on time and on budget for University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust. Originally facing delays and cost pressures, the project team reworked both the design and programme to meet urgent clinical needs and was described on the night as a “true showcase of collaboration, innovation and project excellence.”

NHBC’S BEYOND ’26 LIVE TO TACKLE HOUSING GROWTH, NET ZERO AND THE FUTURE HOMES STANDARD

The UK’s house-building sector is gearing up to address its most urgent challenges, from housing market growth and climate change to the Future Homes Standard and build quality, as the industry works to deliver the government’s target of building 1.5 million new homes this Parliament.

The National House Building Council (NHBC) will host BEYOND ’26 LIVE on 25 February 2026 at the CBS Arena, Coventry. The event will bring together over 1,200 professionals and more than 40 expert speakers and leaders. It will offer valuable content for all levels, from CEOs and technical directors to site managers, sub-contractors and apprentices. Attendees will gain fresh ideas, practical guidance and new insights from leading voices in house building.

Hosted by broadcaster and journalist Louise Minchin (pictured below), best known for her 20 years on

BBC Breakfast, the event will take on the climate crisis with sessions on sustainable construction and preparing for the UK’s 2050 net-zero commitment. It will also address future skills needs, the current housing market and what needs to be done to stimulate growth.

BEYOND ’26 LIVE will showcase best practice in modern timber frame construction, including expert guidance and a live demonstration. A Pride in the Job panel will share insights from this year’s competition and what it takes for site managers to succeed. A dedicated stage will cover roofing quality, highlighting critical external elements and how to avoid common faults, costly rework and claims.

Other topics include NHBC Standards updates, new technologies, construction products, the Building Safety Levy, social housing and water efficiency.

The event will also provide attendees with valuable Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities.

With government housing targets under pressure, BEYOND ’26 LIVE promises to deliver actionable insights to help house builders overcome barriers and seize opportunities in a rapidly evolving market.

For more information and to register, visit nhbc.co.uk/beyond.

& Safety

WHAT THE UPDATE OF INFORMATION SECURITY ISO STANDARD MEANS FOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES

As construction sites become more connected and data-driven, the risks of cyber threats are rising fast. From digital blueprints to project management and client relationship platforms, and subcontractor details, the industry holds vast amounts of sensitive data. That’s why ISO 27001 – the global standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) – plays a significant role, and the latest update to ISO 27001 marks a pivotal shift for construction firms aiming to stay secure, compliant, and competitive.

Understanding the 2022 Update

The ISO 27001:2022 revision brings a sharper, more adaptable framework to help organisations manage digital risks. The number of controls has been reduced from 114 to 93, now grouped under four themes: Organisational, People, Physical, and Technological. These categories reflect how today’s threats span both digital infrastructure and human behaviour.

Newly added controls, such as threat intelligence, physical security monitoring, and data deletion, are highly relevant to construction environments, where remote site access, mobile devices, and shared platforms are commonplace.

For companies already certified, this update requires a transition – a rather urgent one: until the 31st of October 2025 – to align with the new Annex

A controls. For those yet to certify, it offers a clearer, more modern route to managing business security holistically.

Why You Should Pay Attention

Construction is now one of the top targets for cybercriminals. Whether it’s ransomware attacks, phishing schemes, social engineering probes, or unauthorised access to cloud-based drawings, contracts and financial documents, the sector’s growing reliance on technology makes it vulnerable.

The 2022 update renders ISO 27001 more practical and accessible, enabling the industry to:

• Better manage subcontractor risks

• Strengthen security across job sites and offices

• Show clients and regulators a serious commitment to information protection

ISO 27001 as a Competitive Asset

Beyond risk mitigation, aligning with ISO 27001:2022 can support growth. How? Many public sector and infrastructure tenders now require demonstrable information security credentials. An updated ISMS provides a valuable edge in competitive bidding, particularly as clients demand greater transparency around digital safety.

Next Steps for Construction Leaders

Whether managing multi-site builds or single-site operations, construction companies should now:

• Accomplish transitioning to the revised standard in case of holding earlier certification to ISO 27001:2013

• Review current security processes against the new ISO 27001 version structure and start their implementation for the first time certification

• Train key staff on new control areas, especially those involving access, monitoring, and incident response

The construction industry is changing and so are the standards that protect it. Embracing the ISO 27001:2022 update isn’t just about compliance; it’s about building safer, smarter, and more resilient operations from the ground up.

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Training & Education News

FREE PITCHED ROOFING COURSES TO ADDRESS SKILLS SHORTAGE

Roofing specialist BMI is taking action to tackle the critical skills shortage in the roofing industry with the release of free pitched roofing courses for the second half of 2025. Alongside new course dates, the BMI Academy has bolstered its team with new hires to meet rising demand for hands-on, high-quality training.

The construction sector is facing a well-documented skills crisis, with roofing among the hardest hit. According to the latest National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) State of the Roofing Industry Report, 47% of roofing contractors struggle to recruit skilled workers, highlighting the urgent need for training and investment across the industry.

In response to increased demand earlier this year, BMI released additional dates for its popular pitched roofing programme. Open to apprentices, contractors, merchants, specifiers, and other roofing professionals, the free courses blend classroom teaching with hands-on practice using real BMI Redland roofing systems. They’re designed to help participants at all levels build practical skills, stay current with industry standards, and gain confidence to make an immediate impact in their day-to-day work.

Commenting on the announcement, Stuart Farndell, Lead Technical Trainer at the BMI Academy said: “Roofing isn’t a static trade. There’s always something new to learn,

including new systems, updated standards or better ways of working. Whether you’re new to the trade or have years under your belt, the BMI Academy is here to help you sharpen your skills, grow your confidence, and stay industry-ready.”

The popular two-day BMI Basic Course – an introduction to Icopal flat and Redland pitched roofing systems – still has one final course date available this year on 9–10 December at the BMI Academy in Gloucestershire.

In addition to this free course, the BMI Academy offers bespoke sessions covering pitched roof estimating, Cambrian Slate installation, essential plain tiling, and understanding British Standards and workmanship best practices.

To deliver this expanded training programme, BMI has invested in its people with the addition of three dedicated Academy staff: Stuart Farndell as Lead Technical Trainer, Ben Prosser as Technical Trainer, and Charlotte Dixon as Marketing & Academy Coordinator. Together they bring extensive industry knowledge and practical expertise to ensure the academy continues to provide the highest quality roofing education.

To view full course content and book a place, visit: bmigroup.com/uk/bmi-academy

HOUSEBUILDER ENGAGES WITH MORE THAN 340 YOUNG PEOPLE ACROSS WALSALL

Keepmoat has bolstered its commitment to bridging the construction skills gap and supporting local economies by engaging more than 340 young people and creating 41 new jobs across Walsall.

Since construction began at the housebuilder’s Primrose Lodge site on Goscote Lane in 2019, a dedicated Social Value Manager has worked with numerous education providers and the community to create work placements, apprenticeships and site visits for 343 students.

In addition to the 41 new jobs created, Keepmoat also hired 35 local people for work placements and employed 14 apprentices across plumbing, carpentry, brickwork and electrical installation.

Keepmoat is a leading partnership home builder, focused on first time buyers, providing high quality homes throughout the UK that transform communities and improve the lives of local people.

OUTSTANDING STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS RECOGNISED AT LEEDS COLLEGE OF BUILDING AWARDS

Leeds College of Building (LCB) students and apprentices from the 2024/2025 academic year have been honoured at the annual BIG (Building Industry Greats) Awards.

More accolades than ever before were handed out, including 44 trophies, seven Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) QUEST Technician Scholarships, and one medal from the British Tunnelling Society Young Members.

One of the most prestigious trophies of the evening went to Gracie Belwood for her exceptional approach to studies. Gracie, who works at Systra Group, won The Governors’ Award after completing a Level 3 Transport Planning Apprenticeship at the college. She is now progressing to a Transport Planning Degree Apprenticeship at Northeastern University London.

Gracie (pictured left) also won the ‘Commitment to Industry and Professional Development’ Award (sponsored by Turner & Townsend) and said she was “ecstatic” to be honoured.

Howard Civil Engineering employee, Daniel Heffernan, also took home The Principal’s Award after completing a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying at LCB. Daniel has been at the college since 2019, progressing up from a Level 4 qualification in Quantity Surveying.

Daniel (pictured above) also won the ‘Commitment to the College’ Award and said he was surprised after only expecting to receive one trophy.

In total, 16 organisations supported the evening, including gold headline sponsor Marlborough, silver sponsor BAM, and bronze sponsors EPA Construction, Bentley and Sparta Systems.

Find out more about courses and apprenticeships at Leeds College of Building.

FUTURE VOTERS JOIN HOUSING SECRETARY TO LAUNCH SCOTLAND-WIDE HOMES CAMPAIGN

A new campaign, Homes Build Futures, launched today at St Andrew’s House, Edinburgh, aiming to raise awareness of Scotland’s urgent housing shortage ahead of next year’s Scottish Parliament election. The campaign, led by Homes for Scotland (HFS), highlights the impact of the country’s chronic housing undersupply on families and communities.

Scotland’s housing crisis is stark:

• 693,000 households in housing need

• 250,000 people on waiting lists

• 17,240 households in temporary accommodation, including 10,180 children

• Over 110,000 homes shortfall since 2008

The launch included future voters, apprentices, and sector representatives.

Nine-year-old campaign ambassador Eimear O’Leary presented a model brick house to Cabinet Secretary for Housing Màiri McAllan MSP, symbolising the need for action.

The campaign accompanies the HFS 2026 Manifesto, which calls for:

• A 25,000 all-tenure housing target to drive new home delivery

• An enabled planning system supporting sustainable residential development

• Support for SME homebuilders to expand sector capacity, currently at a 20-year low

Backing comes from leading homelessness charity Social Bite, known for its Social Bite Villages, and campaign supporters include architect and TV presenter George Clarke.

For more information visit: www.homesbuildfutures.scot

Training & Education News

PFP THRIVE WELCOMES ITS FIRST COHORT OF APPRENTICES

NEW APPRENTICES START LEARNING THEIR TRADES WITH HOUSEBUILDER

Five new apprentices are starting to learn their trades on site after joining the team at William Davis Homes.

The Loughborough-based housebuilder has been welcoming a new intake of apprentices annually since the 1970s and has just taken on a scaffolder, two bricklayers, a joiner and an electrician to join its team.

The new additions, all from Leicestershire, bring the number of apprentices currently learning their trade with William Davis to 35.

The new intake includes 19-year-old Joshua Jordan, from Coalville, whose elder brother Jack completed a joinery apprenticeship with William Davis and now mentors new trainees.

Each William Davis apprentice is matched with a mentor – often previous apprentices with the company themselves – to help guide them in their learning and development. In addition to their time spent on site, they regularly attend college to learn their trades in a classroom environment.

The company celebrates the progress of its apprentices with an annual awards event in November, naming one outstanding trainee as its Apprentice of the Year.

PfP Thrive, part of Places for People, has officially welcomed its first cohort of apprentices to a new state-of-the-art learning centre in Derby, marking a major step in addressing the UK’s housing and construction skills shortage.

With demand for qualified workers at an all-time high – and a 250,000-worker shortfall to complete the UK Government plans – PfP Thrive has been established to deliver high-quality, accredited training programmes designed to nurture new talent and upskill those already in the sector.

Its courses also tackle the urgent challenge of falling youth engagement in the industry, with apprenticeship entries from 16-year-olds dropping by 4% last year, with further falls among 17-year-olds (–2%) and 18-yearolds (–1%).

The diverse first intake of learners began their studies this week, embarking on a comprehensive programme covering essential housing and construction qualifications. Students range in age, experience, and background – testament to PfP Thrive’s commitment to inclusivity and workforce development at every level of the industry.

PfP Thrive has also secured the backing of partnerships with 40 housing providers, as well as trusted education providers – including The Retrofit Academy, City & Guilds, the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), and Study Academy – helping learners gain nationally recognised qualifications that reflect the future needs of the sector.

The launch follows a recent visit from National Housing Federation Chief Executive Kate Henderson, who described the Derby facility as “a high-tech learning environment designed to meet the needs of every learner.”

PfP Thrive also recently confirmed strategic social value partnerships with leading organisations committed to supporting the students with all the equipment they need to succeed.

PfP Thrive is now welcoming interest from sector partners looking to upskill their teams and invest in long-term workforce resilience.

People On The Move

KEY SUSTAINABILITY APPOINTMENTS AT THE CONCRETE CENTRE

The Mineral Products Association (MPA) has announced senior built environment sustainability appointments at The Concrete Centre.

Andrea Charlson has taken up the role of Senior Built Environment Sustainability Specialist & Circular Economy Lead and Jake Attwood-Harris is appointed as Senior Built Environment Sustainability Specialist. Also joining the team as a consultant is Senior Sustainability Architect Helen Raymond. The appointments follow the recent promotion of Elaine Toogood to Senior Director for MPA Concrete and the retirement of Building Physics Advisor Tom de Saulles.

Andrea Charlson has worked in sustainability in the built environment for 15 years, with a focus on materials, carbon footprinting and the circular economy. She originally trained as a structural engineer, starting out at Arup before moving on to roles with HS2, ReLondon and Useful Projects. A chartered environmentalist, Andrea most recently ran software company Madaster, giving materials a digital identity to help improve circularity and sustainability in buildings.

Jake Attwood-Harris studied architecture before joining a sustainable engineering design consultancy as an analyst / illustrator. Working in similar roles for a number of progressive architects, engineers and developers, he created internal and external sustainability policies and some key analysis tools, including the first Whole Life Carbon calculation tool for the BIM software Revit. Jake is also an accredited BREEAM Accredited Professional and PassivHaus Accredited Designer.

Helen Raymond is a qualified architect with a post graduate certificate in Energy and Sustainable Building Design. Having worked as Joint Head of Sustainability for the architecture team in a large consultancy, she helped guide a range of projects across all sectors to improve their sustainable design. Helen set up RAW Architecture in 2009 to focus on sustainable housing. She is a firm advocate for ‘less is more’, design efficiency and passive strategies, with a focus on thermal mass, thermal comfort, daylighting and resilience. Helen is member of the ARB, RIBA, Green Register and UKGBC.

PULSE CONSULT BOLSTERS HOTEL PROWESS WITH DIRECTOR HIRE

Sophia brings over 20 years of experience across contractor and consultancy roles, delivering high-value luxury hotel projects including The Savoy, The Peninsula, and several major Mayfair and Shoreditch developments.

At Pulse, she will lead growth in Londonbased client relationships and provide strategic cost consultancy across complex hotel projects, helping clients manage costs, reduce risk, and deliver high-quality outcomes.

Sophia’s appointment comes as Pulse Consult continues to expand its national footprint, building on a strong track record delivering thousands of new hotel rooms and refurbishing hundreds more. Her expertise in cost management and strategic project oversight complements the company’s reputation for high-quality, client-focused delivery.

HOW WEST FRASER’S CARBON NEGATIVE WOOD PANELS SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

As with any conscientious organisation, West Fraser’s approach to sustainability is rooted in science; and guided by global standards which result in forests, products and innovation working together to address climate change. Here, David Connacher, West Fraser’s UK Marketing Manager explains the story.

Given the evolving nature of carbon accounting in the forestry industry, West Fraser, as a leader in sustainability worldwide, is taking a diligent, prudent approach to understanding and reporting on emissions and carbon sequestration. Onwards, the company is advancing efforts to accurately and credibly characterise the carbon story in collaboration with industry leaders and community partners.

The organisation has made progress in the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), validating 2030 commitments, including planning for and addressing essential elements that will help work towards establishing a net-zero pathway.

For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit uk.westfraser.com

A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO STRUCTURAL ISOLATION

By Adam Fox, Director, Mason UK

As urban areas expand and mixed-use developments become more common, the need for effective building isolation is growing, particularly for structures near railways and highways. Understanding how to integrate isolation bearings into buildings is now essential.

Eliminating perceptible vibrations and re-radiated noise is a critical concern. Advanced techniques, such as low dynamic stiffness (LDS)

structural isolation bearing pads, have transformed how buildings can be protected from environmental vibrations. Structural isolation combines acoustical consultation, engineering precision, and strict adherence to building codes. Yet the effectiveness of these systems is most vulnerable during construction: improper installation or overlooked structural details can compromise vibration reduction. Frequent inspections and close coordination between architects, engineers, and contractors are therefore crucial.

Collaboration at the core

Successful isolation projects rely on early collaboration among acoustical consultants, structural engineers, architects, and material suppliers. Acoustical consultants assess the site and measure expected vibration levels, while engineers and architects design a cost-effective system that meets building codes, including requirements for wind and seismic loads.

This teamwork has transformed challenging sites—such as former car parks—into premium residential and commercial developments. A well-designed isolation system not only mitigates vibrations but also offers a service life often longer than the building itself, ensuring longterm performance in locations where inspection or replacement is difficult.

Designing effective isolation systems

Design begins with determining the structure’s natural frequency, requiring precise structural load calculations to

inform bearing compression. Correctly modeling spring rates and load redistribution prevents resonance and post-construction vibration issues. Retrofitting an isolation system is usually impractical, so initial design accuracy is vital.

Selecting the isolation plane is equally important. Placing it at a strategic height within the structure prevents short-circuiting and preserves isolation performance over time. For instance, positioning car parks below, rather than within, the isolation plane avoids unnecessary vibration transmission. Structural elements like shear keys and pins manage seismic and wind forces while maintaining system efficiency.

The role of bridge bearing pads

Bridge bearing pads, particularly natural rubber pads engineered for low dynamic stiffness, are among the most reliable isolation materials. Independent laboratory testing ensures compliance with ISO 9001 and standards such as BS EN 1337, providing developers with durable solutions.

Understanding material behaviour is critical. For example, a 25mm deflection in a helical steel spring behaves differently from a 25mm deflection in a rubber pad. Low-stress, low-strain design philosophies enable pads to last decades, often backed by 100-year engineering guarantees. Independent tests for creep, heat aging, ozone resistance, and tensile strength validate performance and reliability.

Testing and inspection

Designing and implementing isolation systems requires meticulous engineering. Bearings, tension rods,

and shear keys must be coordinated with structural supports to prevent errors. Engineers consider earthquakes, wind, and impact forces, placing shear keys strategically to distribute loads.

Certified bearings undergo independent testing for creep resistance and dynamic stiffness, ensuring decades of vibration mitigation. On-site inspections—ranging from 20 to 100 visits depending on complexity—are critical during construction to prevent short-circuiting, particularly when mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems cross the isolation plane. Retrofitting post-construction is often costly or impossible, highlighting the need for careful planning and execution.

The road ahead

Sustainable urban development is increasing the demand for structural isolation. Many existing buildings predate nearby transport infrastructure, resulting in vibration issues. Isolating existing structures can avoid expensive demolitions, preserve historic buildings, and reduce environmental impact.

A notable example is Cambridge House in London, being converted into a luxury hotel. Without isolation, vibrations from nearby tube trains would have made redevelopment unviable, requiring a costly rebuild and the loss of a historic structure.

Ultimately, the success of any building isolation project depends on early collaboration, precise design, rigorous testing, and vigilant oversight during construction. By following these principles, developers can deliver vibration-free, long-lasting environments that enhance occupant comfort and building longevity.

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Ecoblend is the most comprehensive range of manufactured and recycled sub-base and capping aggregates on the market - providing the construction industry with cost-efficient, sustainable solutions meeting the highest standards of quality and performance.

WHY LESS IS MORE HOW TO ACHIEVE MATERIAL SAVINGS WITH

MANUFACTURED AND RECYCLED AGGREGATES

In a world striving for greener, more sustainable construction, the principles of “reduce, reuse, recycle” isn’t just environmental alliteration, it’s a blueprint for a circular economy. At the heart of this shift lies the innovative use of manufactured, and recycled aggregates, like Ecoblend®, which deliver genuine material savings without compromising performance.

The circular economy centres on keeping materials in use for as long as possible – recovering, regenerating, and redeploying what would otherwise be waste.

Circular Economy in Action

The circular economy centres on keeping materials in use for as long as possible – recovering, regenerating, and redeploying what would otherwise be waste. In construction, this means repurposing secondary materials (such as construction demolition waste and premium grade IBAA) into vital infrastructure components. Not only does this reduce dependency on quarried aggregates, but it also diverts significant volumes of waste from landfill, helping to close the loop.

IBAA, a by-product of energy-from-waste processes, embodies these principles perfectly. Once processed, graded, and blended, it becomes a valuable option for sub-base and capping materials for the built environment, especially roads, pavements, platforms, and foundations. Through advanced manufacturing and blending techniques, Ecoblend delivers exceptional performance using fewer materials, prompting the question: how is this possible?

Why You Need Less to Do More

Here’s where the real value lies: volumetric efficiency. For example, unlike denser primary stone, Ecoblend CA’s IBAA element has a compacted bulk density of 1.83 t/m³, compared to 2.3–2.4 t/m³ for primary materials. This means that per cubic metre, you typically need 1520% less material by weight to achieve the same coverage. The reason? IBAA’s naturally vesicular structure - a result of combustion - makes it slightly lighter without compromising geotechnical performance or structural integrity.

So, a 100 m³ sub-base might require 220 tonnes of primary stone - but only around 185 tonnes of Ecoblend (depending on product selected). That’s fewer tonnes to purchase, handle, and haul, meaning reduced transport costs and fewer lorry movements, a clear logistical and carbon-saving benefit.

Calculating with Confidence

Ecoblend’s material calculator demystifies the process, letting you enter your required volume and instantly receive accurate quantity estimates based on the material’s specific density. This tool ensures you can optimise orders, prevent overbuying, and deliver more sustainable outcomes.

Ecoblend’s online material calculator empowers contractors and specifiers to realise these savings with confidence and precision.

In short, using blended IBAA and recycled aggregates supported by tools like the Ecoblend calculator, doesn’t just make environmental sense. Less material really is more.

THE FIGHT FOR FAÇADES –INCORPORATING BUILDING SERVICES EFFECTIVELY

With sustainability, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation increasingly taking priority during building design, MEP engineers and architects are coming into conflict as part of an ever-changing air quality landscape. Nowhere is this better highlighted than in the increasing need for louvres to be designed and incorporated into buildings, especially in applications where plant equipment requires effective air intake or exhaust.

Alexandra Davis, Mechanical Associate at Whitecode Consulting, assesses the importance of balancing aesthetics and ventilation and highlights how mechanical and electrical (M&E) design should be incorporated into early planning and decision-making.

At first glance, our latest project looked like it had plenty of space – especially with a large, open, naturally ventilated basement. That would make it perfect for air source heat pumps, right?

However, upon closer inspection, that ‘airy’ space wasn’t just for the heat pumps; it had to accommodate

ventilation for the underground car park, electrical substations, a standby generator, a spa and pool, gym facilities, and multiple plant rooms. Each one comes with its own airflow demands, and they’re all competing for the same free area.

What looked like abundant ventilation quickly turned into a game of Tetris, attempting to fit oversized ductwork, louvres, and exhaust routes into a limited envelope – and the implications spill far beyond the basement.

Façade Challenges

Many across the built environment don’t realise how much pressure additional mechanical and electrical (M&E) demands put on the building façade. For instance, more ventilation requires more louvres. However, façade space is finite, especially when planning permissions demand large, glazed areas or impose strict acoustic and aesthetic conditions.

Additional issues include:

• Noise management: More plant equipment often triggers acoustic requirements, increasing the need to design ventilation openings with attenuators, oversized plenum zones, or acoustic ventilation panels.

• Ductwork coordination: Larger ducts require more space within floor zones, and vertical risers reaching façade levels can clash with window positions, curtain walling, or brick detailing.

• Cooling requirements: More cooling equals larger air source heat pumps, which increase heat rejection requirements.

• Roof constraints: Architects, planners, and clients often prefer landscaped green roofs, PV panels, or roof terraces over visible plant, pushing equipment into basements or internal plant areas.

Air source heat pumps are ideal for installation in open air, with clean airflow and free discharge. Squeezed into enclosed basements, they require forced ventilation and risk compromised lifespan and performance.

Consequently, the façade often ends up with mismatched louvres, awkward penetrations, or last-minute additions — problems that could have been avoided if M&E was integrated at the very beginning of the design process.

Climate Change Impact

Rising external temperatures are increasing the risk of overheating in flats. Dynamic modelling requirements, such as Part O, are flagging overheating problems previously unnoticed at Stages Two or Three.

Glazing-heavy designs amplify solar gains, while client demands for amenities (gyms, spas, lounges, communal kitchens) increase internal heat gains and require mechanical ventilation.

The response: larger air handling units, more purge ventilation, and installation of comfort cooling systems, all of which increase cooling loads and air source heat pump capacity. This creates a feedback loop: as plant is upsized, the strain on the façade to accommodate it grows.

Solution: Early Integration of Façade and M&E Design

Façade planning needs to be moved upstream, with M&E involvement from RIBA Stage Two – not just as space planners but as performance drivers. Using passive design strategies can reduce mechanical load before any kit is upsized.

Key strategies include:

• Passive solar control: Brise soleils and vertical fins to reduce solar gain on glazed elevations.

• Natural/hybrid ventilation: Openable windows with acoustic ventilation panels.

• Plant placement: Position plant spaces in low-impact façade zones, not prime corners.

• Integrated penetrations: Design envelope penetrations as part of the façade, rather than adding louvres at the last minute.

The days of treating M&E as a bolton are over. The plant is getting bigger, cooling loads are increasing, and the façade bears the brunt.

Early integration of services into façade design ensures better performance, aesthetics, and avoids costly late-stage redesigns.

Key Takeaways

• Integrate M&E design into early planning stages to avoid last-minute façade compromises.

• Use passive strategies to reduce mechanical loads and overheating risks.

• Position plant and design penetrations strategically to maintain façade aesthetics and functionality.

• Collaborative design from the start ensures buildings meet sustainability, performance, and aesthetic goals.

The solution is obvious: bring everyone to the table early and work cohesively together. Design the façade like every duct, vent, or grille matters — because it does.

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WAY IN BUILDING SAFETY AS INDUSTRY AND REGULATOR WORK TOGETHER TO DRIVE CHANGE

The Casey Group, a leader in building safety works, has been commended by Dame Judith Hackitt – the architect of the landmark Building a Safer Future report – for its leadership and commitment to culture change following the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

During a recent visit to Casey’s offices and its Building Safety and Skills Academy in Rochdale, Dame Judith met with senior leaders, project teams, and operatives to hear firsthand how the firm is embracing the new responsibilities introduced by the Building Safety Act (BSA).

The visit also included a tour of Avro Hollows in Manchester, where Casey is remediating four 23-storey tower blocks in line with the new safety standards.

Dame Judith made reference to her visit in a recent appearance at the House of Lords Industry and Regulators committee where she gave evidence around challenges linked to building safety.

Casey Group says her praise highlights a growing sense of optimism across the sector, as more organisations actively work in partnership with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR)

to raise standards and ensure resident safety is prioritised, and the government looks into potential reforms to the building safety processes.

The visit also coincides with Casey achieving six successful Gateway 2 approvals — a key milestone under the Building Safety Act, ensuring projects are reviewed and approved before construction begins.

While the implementation of the new regulatory framework has brought challenges, including complexity and delays, leading contractors like Casey are proving that collaboration and shared learning can turn those challenges into lasting improvements.

The visit comes at a pivotal time, with a new inquiry led by Baroness Taylor of Bolton exploring how the new rules can be more effectively applied.

As the UK Government pushes forward with an ambition to deliver 370,000 homes annually, the alignment of safety, efficiency, and delivery remains a key focus. The Casey Group says it is not just focused on implementing the new regulations — it’s also helping shape how they work in practice. WATKIN

Watkin Jones, the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent, has announced the sale of a new c.784 bed purpose-built student accommodation (‘PBSA’) scheme in Glasgow (the “Ard”) to a newly created joint venture (the “JV Entity”) owned 95% by Maslow Capital and 5% by the Group (the “Transaction”).

The Ard will deliver high-quality accommodation in one of the UK’s prime cities for student living, in a central location highly accessible to Glasgow’s main universities.

The Transaction, which has a projected Gross Development Value of c.£182m at completion, will generate secured revenues for the Group of approximately £115m over the course of its three-year construction period. In addition, there is the potential to generate further revenue through the sale of the property once completed (the “Realisation Sale”).

Under the structure, the Group will be responsible for the delivery of the scheme through to completion, as well as its ongoing management by Fresh, the Group’s accommodation management business. Completion is targeted for the start of the 2028/29 academic year.

DOES THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY HAVE AN INTEGRITY PROBLEM?

By Frazer Argyros-Farrell, Managing Director – CHPK Fire Engineering and CHPK Façade Design

The recent forged, and potentially insufficient EWS1 form scandal at Tri Fire has cast a harsh spotlight on the construction industry and its integrity crisis.

For an industry that prioritises traceability, accreditations and third-party approvals as a safeguard to ensure competency, these measures are insufficient on their own, and in reality, can be exploited to create dangerous situations where substandard and even fraudulent work can slip through the cracks. This is

work that, in the case of fire safety, can quite literally be a matter of life and death. Even post-Grenfell and following the widespread calls for reform and enhanced regulatory oversight, incidents of substandard fire risk appraisal of external walls (FRAEW), inadequate cladding materials, and flawed safety inspections persist.

What this situation exposes is an uncomfortable truth; the construction industry is not just facing a competency problem but a moral one. Too often, companies and individuals operate within a ‘tick-box’ culture. We need to start placing as much emphasis on ethical conduct as we do on qualifications. But how do we ensure the integrity of those we work with?

The answer lies in the culture within businesses and across the industry as a whole. It starts with leadership. Business leaders must foster an environment of being transparent about mistakes and taking the time to address issues if they arise and prioritising quality over deadlines.

The industry must also push for regulatory change. Bodies such as the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), must be given stronger enforcement powers to hold individuals and companies accountable. Clients also have a role to play - rather than simply looking for firms with the right accreditations, they should seek out companies with a proven track record of ethical behaviour and transparency. Integrity is evident in how a company operates, communicates, and presents itself, not just in the certification it holds.

Finally, we must create a culture where whistleblowing is supported rather than feared. Those who speak out against unethical practices should be protected, not punished. Rather than be concerned about how it looks to the others, we must embrace those that call out the incorrect behaviour and embrace changes to ensure the unwanted behaviours cease and changes are made for the better. The fear of repercussions often keeps individuals silent, allowing dishonest practices to continue unchecked.

Having more senior leaders in construction talking about the importance of integrity and how to foster it within the sector is key.

I believe we all must work harder to shift our focus to developing a culture of ethical accountability, where doing the right thing is just as important as being qualified to do the job. Only then can we truly safeguard the future of our industry.

OLD MANSFIELD NIGHTCLUB TRANSFORMED INTO HOMES FOR PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES

The Old Eight Bells, which has been empty since 2018, has been transformed thanks to £1.6m of funding from social impact investor Resonance to convert the space into eight apartments, with the last tenant due to move in next month. The development also includes community spaces alongside office space for mental health and disability charity United Response, which will provide on-site support and activities for tenants.

The Old Eight Bells was last used as the Urban Cherry nightclub and forms part of Mansfield District Council’s Church Street rejuvenation plan.

The project is funded by the Resonance Supported Homes Fund, with Barrow Cadbury Trust and Better Society Capital providing investment as a direct response to Nottinghamshire’s shortage of high-quality supported housing.

The properties are being leased by Resonance to United Response, who will provide both landlord and support services to the tenants. The charity will also run the community space housed in the building.

The new service and people supported by United Response are also benefiting from a £17,000 grant donated by the Morrisons Foundation, which will help fund activities for both tenants and the local Mansfield community.

One of the first tenants moving in is Emma Dodd, who has Down’s Syndrome. She has always lived in Calverton with her twin sister Aynsley and has enjoyed the backing of a big family. Unfortunately, her mom passed away when she was just 17 and this left her dad being the main carer and support, with Aynsley increasingly helping her adjust to life after Covid.

Emma, who navigates life with therapy dog Robin, has been looking to move into independent living for some time, but needed to find the right property with the right wraparound support.

CHIPPINDALE & BANNER EQUIPMENT SUPPORT THE LIGHTHOUSE CHARITY WITH SANY EXCAVATOR WRAP

Chippindale Hire & Sales (part of the AER Rents Group) and Banner Equipment have joined forces to raise awareness of the Lighthouse Charity by wrapping one of their new SANY excavators in the charity’s branding. The striking machine highlights the support available to anyone working in construction while helping to promote the charity’s vital 24/7 free and confidential helpline.

The Lighthouse Charity provides 24/7 holistic support to the UK and Ireland construction community on all aspects of emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.

By sharing the helpline details on a highly utilised piece of equipment that will be visible on sites across the region, Chippindale and Banner aim to reach thousands of workers who may not know where to turn.

The machine itself is one of SANY’s latest excavators, combining cuttingedge features with market-leading reliability. It comes with an industryleading five-year/5,000-hour warranty and includes advanced operator comforts such as a fully fitted cab with radio, air conditioning, ergonomic seating, and keyless start with pincode security. SANY’s EVI telematics system

and efficient Stage V Izuzu engine deliver impressive fuel economy and real-time performance data, making it one of the most versatile excavators for construction, landscaping, horticulture, and demolition projects.

This initiative follows AER Rents’ recent multi-million-pound collaboration with SANY, which saw 50 new machines, including telehandlers and excavators, joining the fleets at Chippindale Hire & Sales, DHS Complete Hire, and MPH Hire & Sales. The deal underlines AER Rents’ long-term commitment to safe, productive and sustainable fleet growth.

If you or anyone you know is struggling, reach out for 24/7 free and confidential support now with the Lighthouse Charity.

Find out more at lighthousecharity.org