One In Eight British Homeowners Are Planning To Buy A Second Property In The Next 10 Years

A new study has revealed that whilst 12% of homeowners polled in a new study are saving to invest in a second property within the next decade, the majority of these individuals admit they’ve not fully researched the costs associated with doing so, such as stamp duty surcharges and periods of unoccupancy.

Whilst undertaking new research into the future investment plans of homeowners, a UK insurance agency has uncovered that as many as two thirds of Britons want to add value to their homes through extensions, conversions or conservatories, whilst almost one in three plan to make overpayments on their mortgage product in order to pay off their loan before their agreed term length ends.

As part of the study, the team at www.coverbuilder.co.uk polled 2,784 UK adults aged 25 and over, who’d all purchased a property within the last 10 years, in order to understand Britons financial plans for the future with regards to homeownership. All those taking part were from an even split of each of the UK regions.

When respondents were initially asked to state roughly how much longer they had left on their mortgage terms, the average length of time emerged as 14 years.

All homeowners were then given a list of potential options relating to their property and asked to reveal which, if any, they’d considered doing themselves during the next 10 years. The results emerged as follows:

1. I plan to add extra rooms to my property (e.g. extensions/loft conversions/conservatories etc…) – 59%
2. I plan to remodel rooms in my house – 47%
3. I plan to take in lodgers/tenants to rent out spare rooms in my property  – 32%
4. I plan to make overpayments on my mortgage in order to pay off my loan before the agreed term length ends – 28%
5. I plan to save up and purchase a second ‘buy-to-let’ property – 13%

Next, those that stated that they were planning on owning a second property within the next decade were asked if they’d begun to fully research the costs associated with doing so, such as the stamp duty surcharge and the issues surrounding periods of unoccupancy. The majority of these individuals (71%) confessed to researchers that they’d not yet begun to look into the implications and potential drawbacks of owning a second property, but that they planned on doing so within the next year.

In order to uncover the areas of the UK with homeowners most likely to want to invest in a second property within the next 10 years, researchers analysed answers to reveal the geographical breakdown of participants, with the number of those looking to purchase another home as follows:

• South East – 16% (of those looking to purchase a second property lived here)
• South West  – 15%
• Scotland – 12%
• North East – 10%
• London – 9%
• West Midlands – 8%
• East of England -6%
• East Midlands – 6%
• North West – 5%
• Northern Ireland – 4%
• Wales – 4%
• Yorkshire and Humberside – 3%

Finally, the 87% of homeowners not planning to purchase a buy-to-let property in the future were asked if it was something they’d previously considered, with more than one fifth (21%) admitting they’d “considered it in the past but decided it was no longer something I wanted to pursue.” When asked to reveal why they’d come to this conclusion, “increasingly strict regulations and legal requirements for buy-to-let owners” (64%), “the hassle of on-going maintenance work on the property” (27%) and “the financial risks of not finding suitable tenants” (12%) emerged as the most common reasons Britons had been put off.

Rob Rushton, Head of coverbuilder.co.uk says:

“To purchase a buy-to-let or not to purchase a buy-to-let, that is the question. In theory there are many benefits to owning a second property, but unless you are fully prepared for the reality of the additional financial costs, legal requirements and have a sufficient amount of funds to fall back on, then it might not be the best financial investment for you.

“In 2015, there were an estimated 700,000 empty properties in the UK, so there is also the potential risk of purchasing a home that ultimately won’t have an immediate tenant. This, combined with increasing regulations and rules surrounding a second property will have Britons questioning whether they are truly prepared for both the financial and administrative commitment.”

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/30/one-in-eight-british-homeowners-are-planning-to-buy-a-second-property-in-the-next-10-years/

DESIGN AND IN-USE: CLOSING THE PERFORMANCE GAP

As we drive the performance of our building stock, it is becoming clear that one of the key challenges we must address is narrowing the gap between design and actual performance. The industry needs support to ensure we use more accurate modelling and data in order to understand how the building will perform in operation. If we don’t, the gap in performance can be as big as 200-450% greater than predicted.

With project costs squeezed and ‘value engineered’, all too often performance suffers. By allowing design teams more time to spend on modelling and considering how the building will be used by its occupants, rather than being forced into ‘default values’ and specification, we will go some of the way to eliminating this performance gap.

 

Understanding the gap

The performance gap has two components: the compliance gap and the actual performance gap. The modellers estimate 50-70% is the compliance gap and can be solved by more realistic modelling mirroring the conditions more closely. The reasons for the second and larger actual performance gap are generally unknown. There’s speculation about this and assumptions, but little in the way of hard evidence.

When a building is managed effectively, property value is maximised. A high performing building will ultimately generate maximum profit via high and continuous rental income, low operating and maintenance costs and low depreciation.

Modelling tools are used for compliance, which means they use standard default values for the building design. All the operational plant which controls the building is then set at these ‘standardised driving’ conditions and the occupancy density (i.e people versus square metres) is based on industry averages.

As a result these standard default values underestimate the usage by up to 100%. Software is used to meet building regulations and energy performance certificates, as well as being used for ranking rather than the operation of the building. When you pass the design stage, it’s essential that real numbers are inputted and this can be done via modelling techniques such as the Green Deal software developed by BRE. This allows users to tailor the usage of the building to match real operating conditions in. It allows you to work out what it should and shouldn’t be.

But from that point onwards much depends on how well the building is commissioned; what maintenance strategies and schedules are put into place; and how the building is managed. If this doesn’t happen you begin to see divergence. Buildings need to be commissioned properly with particular attention made to control systems and the needs of the occupants.

 

The power of management

Building management systems (BMSs) and building energy management systems (BEMSs) are powerful tools in ensuring that buildings are run efficiently and provide the desired environment for the occupants. As technology becomes cheaper and advances more rapidly, control systems need to be flexible, upgradable and have the facility to easily communicate and integrate with other systems.

However, care needs to be taken in their operation, and staff using these systems need to be fully trained. Ongoing commissioning and preventative maintenance needs to be carried out to ensure the potentially large energy savings are realised, operational costs are controlled and expensive failures do not occur. End-user needs should be taken into account, while staff training and awareness-raising should be carried out to get the building’s occupants involved.

Ongoing commissioning is essentially a higher form of maintenance. Maintenance simply deals with faults. It’s also important to consider management issues. Is the right environment being provided? Is it being provided in the proper place? Is the building being turned off at the right times?

If it is not managed properly, the performance gap will only get worse. Modelling doesn’t help with the building in-use but baselines the building predicted performance. It starts by putting decent controls in so things are turned off when they are not occupied. Once you have control of the building, you can put the management systems in place so that building is optimised for energy usage.

 

Focus on people

One of the most important things to remember is that a building is built for the occupant. In terms of costs, staffing is around 95% and workplaces are key to productivity. Any reduction in productivity has a large effect on a business’s bottom line; after all 95% of operational costs are the staff. Buildings therefore need to be efficient, responsive and innovative, which is why it is so important to optimise the environment in first place.

It’s imperative that the industry treats the underlying causes not the symptoms. It’s like the heart problem analogy. A surgeon might repair a damaged heart with a stem cell but not treat the inherent diet and lifestyle issues.

One of the main problems is that architects are not bringing the design teams early enough in the design process. The later you do this, the more expensive it gets and reduces the benefits in the long term. By engaging with the performance gap, it’s possible to deliver the triple bottom line of people, planet and profit.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/26/design-and-in-use-closing-the-performance-gap/

UK Construction Week 2017 provides a vital boost of optimism and record attendance

UK Construction Week closed its doors last week on its most successful outing in its three year history, with a record 33,697 construction professionals attending over three packed days of business, networking, discussion and celebration. The increased attendance represents an 11% increase year on year, proving that a large scale construction event for the whole sector is needed for this vital part of the UK economy.

UK Construction Week 2017 provided an opportunity for construction firms of all sizes to gain competitive advantage, as well as learn how to deal with BREXIT, seize the advantages offered by modern methods of construction and how we all tackle the skills shortage. These debates were held in front of the nation’s media including BBC Breakfast, ITN, Sky News and regional news outlets, bringing construction front and centre of national debate.

Nathan Garnett, Event Director for UK Construction week commented “This was a big year for UK Construction Week. It was only our third year, but to get an 11% uplift in attendees is a real stamp of approval that we are delivering the kind of innovative, forward thinking, national event that brings the whole sector together. It has proven itself as the place to meet and do business, and look at how we tackle the enormous challenges to come in the years ahead. It is also a massive celebration, with thousands of professionals attending a variety of awards over the three days.”

Mark Farmer, author of the landmark Modernise or Die report spoke at the event and said “UK Construction Week brings together a massive cross section of the construction industry so not to be here would be a lost opportunity”.

Visitor feedback has been phenomenally positive, with innovation and solutions provided by over 650 exhibitors: “Regulations are changing all the time, and a lot of the guys here have solutions we need to know about so, this is a one stop opportunity to meet all of those people” Russell Shellard, Managing Director of Bramdean Construction.

Key industry brands have commented on the events success, and a large number of them have already confirmed their return for 2018.

James Fairclough, Head of Marketing for CEMEX said “We have had another great year at UKCW talking to many new and existing customers. We felt it was a perfect event to launch our new ‘neogem’ aggregates range which received a massive amount of interest. We have already booked for 2018 and are looking forward to yet another successful event next year!”

“UK Construction Week is more than a trade show; it’s where you do business. First time exhibitor but what a successful week we had!” Katrina Gates, Client Engagement Director, TLC.eu

Companies who have already made their commitment to UK Construction Week 2018 and the 9 dedicated events within it include Rockwool, CAT, Velux, G2 Energy, Steico, Fundermax, and Lumineux. The number of companies stating their commitment to UKCW in the week after has quadrupled year on year

The amount of press surrounding this year’s event also meant the visitors were coming from further afield, shining a spotlight on UK companies. “The show brought a high quality, broad spectrum of customers from all areas including London, home counties, North East, Midlands, Ireland, Middle East and even the Seychelles.” commented Surfaces & Materials exhibitor, John Barham from Barham & Sons.

The plethora of partners to UK Construction Week gives it the ability to bring everyone together. Lead partner for Timber Expo, TRADA comments: “The Media 10 team are very passionate about Timber Expo, as they are for UK Construction Week and all their other shows. It was great to see plenty of engaging stands and features this year.  I encourage every company selling wood-based solutions and products to pull together, get involved and help make the ‘timber pie’ bigger.” Rupert Scott, Membership and Marketing Manager, TRADA.

Plans are already well underway for the 2018 event with a large amount of space already committed to by exhibitors and a number of new innovative features and events planned, next year promises to be even bigger and better for UK Construction Week.

UK Construction Week 2018 is set to take place from 9 – 11 October, please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com   for more information.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/25/uk-construction-week-2017-provides-a-vital-boost-of-optimism-and-record-attendance/

OVERCOMING SITE DELIVERY CHALLENGES

It was recently announced that the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, is introducing a new Ultra Low Emission Zone in Central London from Monday 8^th April 2019. Whilst this is a clear step towards reducing pollution within the City, the restrictions are the latest addition to a long list of challenges facing construction companies and suppliers that work and deliver in London. Carl Ghinn, Managing Director at Fixmart, discusses how suppliers like Fixmart, can help customers overcome these challenges by providing flexible delivery solutions.

In order to provide an effective solution that helps our customers, I believe it is important to understand the challenges they face. When we visit our clients on site, they frequently discuss the challenges of strict delivery timeslots. Failure to meet these can result in large penalties for the contractor, and to a company that is working to tight margins, this can result in a loss for the project. A good way of combating this is by finding a supplier that offers timed delivery slots and communicating with the site before the delivery is due. It enables workers to prepare for the delivery and be advised of any potential delays.

Health and safety is also a key consideration. There are specific rules that delivery companies must comply with before they are allowed on site, especially in London. Many require vehicles to be FORS accredited, which is a voluntary scheme that promotes best practice in terms of safety, efficiency and environmental protection. I have also known delivery drivers to be turned away if they are wearing shorts rather than trousers due to health & safety regulations. Similarly, if a product isn’t packaged properly it can become a safety risk and the site manager won’t accept the delivery. By being aware of the restrictions, and ensuring drivers and vehicles comply with regulations, you can help avoid a failed delivery.

Another key issue facing contractors is the lack of available space on site. With a variety of different trades operating within the same space, storage is at a premium, and as a result, many need products that cannot be delivered too far in advance. Whilst this may be a simple requirement, it poses a great challenge as workers need to trust that their supplier will have the right products in stock at short notice. On the other hand, this needs to be balanced with the introduction of the Ultra Low Emission Zone which has resulted in many developers pushing for fewer deliveries. Consequently, workers are looking for increasingly flexible delivery options to support this. At Fixmart, we offer an order cut-off time for next day delivery of 5pm, as well as the option for customers to cancel an order up to 2 hours before the delivery is due, free of charge. This enables workers to react to changes on site without incurring extra costs.

In conclusion, as restrictions continue to tighten, it has never been more important for suppliers to fully understand the complexities of delivering in London and provide a flexible solution that helps customers to overcome these challenges.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/24/overcoming-site-delivery-challenges/

APE Mobile sets sights on U.S. expansion

APE Mobile is expanding its global reach and setting up in the U.S following last quarter growth of 55%. The company, which already boasts a growing portfolio of U.S. customers, is announcing a series of initiatives in order to capitalize on sales within in its fastest growing market.

 

APE Mobile is a paperless site app that enables building and civil construction companies to replace their traditional paperwork with a single, low-cost, cloud-connected app.

 

Preparations to open a North American office are underway which will support sales and customer success teams. By establishing U.S operations, APE Mobile will be able to serve its existing customers better and work more closely with its key partners in the region.

 

APE Mobile is positioning itself as the best-of-breed paperless site app that sits within the cloud connected software ecosystem. Matt Edwards, CEO of APE Mobile, explains that, “We’ve integrated to the top three Construction ERP platforms in the U.S and connected to over 800 cloud solutions because we believe successful construction companies of the future will have to be data driven to win. Companies can use the best tool for their site paperwork as an extension of their existing project management and ERP systems.”

 

In an industry that has traditionally been very adverse to change, APE Mobile has taken a deep dive into site paperwork to solve the shortcomings that have seen previous mobility projects fail. Edwards says “The solution put in place had to be better than paper for the person in the field, with low risk to the business and high user acceptance. Instead of building a platform that imposes a certain way of doing things, we built a system that adapts to the processes of each customer.”

 

The app has had success in achieving an ROI for companies from day one. In a recent time and motion study from one of Australia’s largest construction and mining contractors, they found an ROI of 1500% in using the app solely on safety forms. The use in that company has now expanded to all other paperwork to double down on the benefits.

 

About APE Mobile

APE Mobile is a venture capital funded app that replaces paperwork on work sites enabling building & civil construction contractors, specialist subcontractors and mining companies to easily go paperless using their existing ISO accredited templates. APE Mobile supports all site paperwork, is quick to implement and practical onsite. As well as capturing data on site, you can also access and mark up all your site plans and documents to keep the team on the same page. APE Mobile integrates with over 800 cloud solutions including Spectrum by Dexter + Chaney, Vista by Viewpoint and Sage 300 CRE, extending the capabilities of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/23/ape-mobile-sets-sights-on-u-s-expansion/

BREXIT WILL BE A BIG BOOST FOR BRITISH BUILDERS: New survey shows uplifts in skills, techniques and manufacturing levels

UK Construction Week opens on Tuesday, and will bring together a wide spectrum of the construction trade together over three days at the NEC Birmingham (10-12 October). Ahead of the event, UK Construction Week conducted a Brexit survey from over 2,500 industry leaders. The survey canvassed architects, contractors, SME builders, surveyors, engineers, local authorities and many more.

The survey clearly shows that the UK Construction industry wants to discuss the positive impacts of BREXIT, with the majority of respondents believing it will force us to solve the skills shortage once and for all by investing in younger generations and encouraging them into the sector. This places extra emphasis on making sure the CITB is fit for purpose, and also supports the Farmer Report, Modernise or Die. Mark Farmer will present his view on what needs to be done following on from the report at UK Construction Week on Wednesday 11th October.

 

It also points to resurgence in British building materials, as contractors and house builders protect themselves from any tariffs in future, but also to taking advantage of a blossoming UK manufacturing base. This week’s UK Construction Week is a perfect demonstration of this with major British firms taking centre stage, such as Easy-Trim (Roofing and sealants), Forterra (Bricks and Building Materials), Tufeco (Modular Housing), Potterton (Heating), Portakabin (Modular Buildings) and HG Matthews (Bricks).

 

Offsite and Modular construction are also cited as a solution to build quicker in post BREXIT Britain.  Event Director, Nathan Garnett said “Offsite and Modular Construction is a major theme of UK Construction week in 2017 with over 100 manufacturers and suppliers in the sector exhibiting, an increase of 65% on last year. This is a reflection of how Offsite construction has now become accepted as a mainstream method of construction, increasing speed and productivity in the sector.”

 

The best possible example of home grown manufacturing and skills can be exemplified by the stunning world premiere of a two-story modular house at the show. Jon Gunn, CEO of Tufeco and a partner at ATELIO, said: “We see tremendous opportunity in the next few years for us as British manufacturers of world class modular buildings. We have worked in collaboration with Grimshaw, so our project is a real testament to UK skills and knowledge, and are confident our product can be a real advantage in the challenge to build the homes we need in the next decade.”

 

One of UK Construction Week and Timber Expo’s partners, Dougal Driver, CEO of Grown in Britain, said:”It is great to hear the UK Construction Week survey indicates support for British made materials. British-grown timber returns social and economic value back to communities here in the UK, supporting rural jobs and local economies.”

 

Key survey findings:

• 64% believe BREXIT will force us to solve the skills crisis and invest in younger generations
• Over 50% said it will make us buy British Building Materials
• 43% believe building material costs will stabilise and 10% think materials prices may actually go down
• 53% said we will embrace offsite manufacturing as a solution to the challenges ahead

 

Whilst leaving the EU poses challenges, the construction industry is already looking ahead to the positives outcomes BREXIT could bring. The UKCW survey however has laid down a very clear mandate for the UK Government to invest more in apprenticeships and support British manufacturing.

 

All of these topics will be discussed at UK Construction Week in the Development and Regeneration Hub and the UKCW stage, from 10-12 October at the NEC Birmingham.

 

For more information and free registration visit www.ukconstructionweek.com.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/20/brexit-will-be-a-big-boost-for-british-builders-new-survey-shows-uplifts-in-skills-techniques-and-manufacturing-levels/

Chancellor unveils extra £400m for transport in North

UK Construction Week opens with a bang!

UK Construction Week opened its doors this morning to thousands of visitors who are all here to see the largest free construction trade show in action. Nine separate events, over 650 exhibitors, hundreds of product launches, and hours of seminars from the biggest names in the industry will take place over the next few days.

The opening ceremony was hosted by architect and broadcaster, George Clarke, who was also on hand to welcome a group of cyclists who made the trip from London to Birmingham to raise more than £5,000 for Construction Youth Trust, a charity helping young people build better futures by giving them access to training, education and employment opportunities in the construction industry.

 

Boasting more UK-first new product launches than any other show, visitors to UK Construction Week can expect to see over 10,000 innovative product launches, while networking and participating in learning events. Here are some of the reasons to attend, and what to expect over the next few days.

 

1. Post-Grenfell: The latest advice. Over 100 free CPD workshops will cover everything from safety legislation and product safety guidance to fire prevention strategies.

 

1. A stellar speaker line-up. UKCW 2017 boasts an impressive line-up of speakers, including George Clarke, Tom Dyckhoff and Steph McGovern.

 

1. Emerging trendsetters. Head to The Material Lab Hub to discover the rising stars and cutting-edge brands shaping the world of surfaces.

 

1. Offsite. UKCW will contain hundreds of offsite innovations, with more exhibitors in this field than any other event.

 

1. If you are looking to further your career or for a job change, UK Construction Week is a must attend event. Find out about career opportunities and roles with leading UK construction firms at the event where the whole industry gathers. Meet recruiters, recruitment agencies, gain invaluable career advice and take up free CPD accredited education

 

1. UKCW recognises the brilliant work the industry is doing and wants to reward it. This year will see a number of new, specialist awards. These include: Construction Enquirer Awards, Low Carbon Vehicles Awards, BIM Awards, Offsite Awards and WAN Awards. 

 

1. And finally, it’s not all just work. Why not take the chance to show off at the Dodgeball tournament, relax at the Beer and Ale festival or place your cards at the Casino night alongside key industry professionals?

 

Consisting of Build Show, sponsored by EasyTrim, Timber Expo, sponsored by Steico, Civils Expo, sponsored by Finning CAT, Plant & Machinery Live, sponsored by AutoTrader Plant, Energy 2017, sponsored by G2 Energy, Smart Buildings 2017, sponsored by KNX, Surface & Materials Show, sponsored by BLFA, HVAC 2017, sponsored by Flakt Group, and Grand Designs Live, UK Construction Week caters for the entire spectrum of the industry from builders, architects, innovators and consultants, each show provides exhibitors with the opportunity to network alongside decision makers and purchasers while showcasing their services and products to thousands of visitors.

 

For additional information on the full programme of events, please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/10/uk-construction-week-opens-with-a-bang/

UK Construction Week offers insight into the rebirth in social housing

UK Construction Week returns next Tuesday to the NEC, uniting over 650 exhibitors with 30,000 trade visitors in what is set to be the largest gathering of the built environment community. This year’s event, running from 10-12 October, is more topical than ever and guests to the free trade show can expect to hear how the industry plans to foster the rebirth in social housing.

The show’s Development and Regeneration Hub offers the perfect antidote to those who want to tackle this key topic, which is especially relevant after the government announcement of an extra £2bn pledged towards social housing. Featuring guest speakers such as Mark Jones from the National House Building Council (NHBC), Ayo Allu, Chairman of The Chartered Institute of Building, Bristol & Bath Regional Capital CIC’s Edward Rowberry, Paul Smith from Bristol City Council, Angharad Palmer of Pocket Living, and Simon Underwood from Elements Europe, there is a wealth of experience and insight ready to be had at the growth session.

 

What’s more, in light of recent tragic events, UK Construction Week has put together a free and comprehensive CPD programme that will tackle issues surrounding building quality, safety and fire prevention. With the repercussions of Grenfell set to change the landscape for all of us in construction, key topics up for discussion will be: Flammable Building Materials, Building Regulations, Fire Prevention, Improving Safety through technology, as well as Health & Safety. These completely unbiased and factual workshops will give visitors the opportunity to both broaden and share their knowledge, whilst valuable questions are put to industry experts.

 

Full timetables of the CPD workshops taking place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday can be viewed on the UK Construction Week website here:

http://www.ukconstructionweek.com/site/building-safety

 

If you’re interested in attending one of the CPD workshops, please note that places are extremely limited, and you should confirm your place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/10/uk-construction-week-offers-insight-into-the-rebirth-in-social-housing/

Next Generation Design Brum set to be showcased at UK Construction Week

The winning design from the Next Generation Design Brum competition by Scale Rule is set to be displayed at UK Construction Week’s Timber Expo from 10-12 October.

 

Scale Rule is a voluntary initiative that receives funding from the Institution of Structural Engineers and provides a unique insight into the engineering and architecture professions for the next generation of designers – school students. Over a two-day workshop, nine teams were asked to design a ‘fun outdoor pavilion’ which featured exclusively at Birmingham Weekender Festival last month, and is set to be showcased once again at UK Construction Week’s Timber Expo.

 

Led by a professional team made up of talented engineers, architects and designers from Arup, Curtins, Intervention Architecture and AKSward, the students developed a design concept that consisted of a dome like structure with a number of openings for access and light, while focusing on natural shapes and forms.

 

Nathan Garnett, Event Director at Media 10, which runs the show, said: “We’re proud to welcome Scale Rule to showcase a perfect example of collaboration by students, local authorities and the built environment profession. As a collective they are extremely passionate about inspiring the next generation of designers, something we support wholeheartedly and will be an area of focus at UK Construction Week. We hope that everyone gets an opportunity to see this remarkable structure in person at the Timber Expo.”

 

In line with supporting up and coming talent, UK Construction Week will also host Construction Careers Week. This is the perfect opportunity to explore career opportunities and roles with leading UK construction firms, including HS2, Thames Tideway, Morgan Sindall, Sir Robert McAlpine, Taylor Wimpey, Kier, as well as local authorities and housing associations and the UK’s leading architectural practices. Meanwhile, visitors can also participate in over a hundred CPD accredited workshops free of charge.

 

Consisting of Build Show, sponsored by EasyTrim, Timber Expo, sponsored by Steico, Civils Expo, sponsored by Finning CAT, Plant & Machinery Live, sponsored by AutoTrader Plant, Energy 2017, sponsored by G2 Energy, Smart Buildings 2017, sponsored by KNX, Surface & Materials Show, sponsored by BLFA, HVAC 2017, sponsored by Flakt Group, and Grand Designs Live, UK Construction Week caters for the entire spectrum of the industry from builders, architects, innovators and consultants, each show provides exhibitors with the opportunity to network alongside decision makers and purchasers while showcasing their services and products to thousands of visitors.

 

For additional information on the full programme of events, free registration, accommodation, and discounted Virgin train travel, please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/09/next-generation-design-brum-set-to-be-showcased-at-uk-construction-week/

Health & Safety North is coming to Manchester for its biggest ever conference and exhibition

Health & Safety North is coming to Manchester for its biggest ever conference and exhibition

The Health & Safety North conference and exhibition will take place in Manchester for the first time on October 10^th and 11^th. The 2017 event has moved from Bolton to the larger EventCity venue in Manchester, where it is expected to attract 2,000 visitors and 200 exhibitors.

The move to the centrally-located EventCity, the second largest venue outside London, also enables the inaugural Fire Safety North event to run alongside Health & Safety North.

 

Running from 10 to 11^th October 2017, the event, the biggest of its kind in the north of England, is set to attract professionals from across the region for two days of educational seminars, industry debates, networking opportunities and equipment displays.

 

The main conference programme, curated by the event’s educational partner the British Safety Council, promises invaluable presentations from a line-up of industry leaders. Highlights will include a session on the results of a new Britain’s Healthiest Workplace survey and a legal update from legal firm Clyde & Co. Meanwhile, the Safety Dialogue Theatre, sponsored by 3M, provides a forum for panel debates on topics including fall protection, hearing and respiratory health.

 

Leading industry organisations will be represented at the event, including the National Examination Board for Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), the Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), the Energy Institute and the International Institute of Risk & Safety Management (IIRSM).

 

Tim Else, event director at Western Business Exhibitions, which organises the event, said: “After 10 excellent years at the Bolton Arena, the growing volume of exhibitors wanting to participate and the growing need to satisfy the educational requirements for the visitors to the event was such that we had to seek a larger venue. By moving to Manchester we have more space to meet that demand.

 

“There is no other event in the north of England providing this level of education, debate and networking for professionals whose job involves health and safety. With thanks to our partners and sponsors, we’ve put together another great programme and look forward to welcoming the safety and health community to our new home in the north.”

 

Free registration is now open. To register and view the full educational programme online, visit: www.healthandsafetyevents.co.uk

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/06/health-safety-north-is-coming-to-manchester-for-its-biggest-ever-conference-and-exhibition/

Welsh businesses raise thousands in aid of male suicide awareness with charity triathlon

More than 150 Welsh property professionals from across the country downed their tools and swapped their suits for swimming goggles, cycling shorts and running shoes to raise over £12,000 to tackle male suicide at this year’s Wales Property Triathlon.

The annual triathlon, now in its fifth year, organised by family firm Jehu Group, took place in aid of male suicide prevention charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), in a bid to help stop male suicide, the leading cause of death for men aged 20 to 49 across the UK.  Jehu has chosen to support the charity following the loss of a respected and popular co-worker in July of 2016

Staff from the Jehu Group and Waterstone Homes, together with many of their clients including Principality Building Society, Berry Smith and Coastal Housing Group took part in the sprint triathlon, which involved a 500m pool swim, 20k bike ride and 5k run.

Taking first prize was Jamie Best, from Melin Consultants while the fastest female was Sarah Smith. The fastest team was Spring Design, made up of Alun Brown, Ian Boobyer and Sion Evans.

Jehu has taken part in a number of fundraising activities throughout the year in support of CALM, its chosen charity for 2017, including a property band night held in Cardiff’s popular music venue, Tramshed.

Anna Jones, Fundraising Director at CALM, said: “We are extremely proud and thankful that Jehu Group have selected CALM as its charity of the year and will help us to raise awareness of the fact that suicide is single biggest killer of men under 45 in the UK.  It was great to see such a fantastic turnout today and the money raised will help make a difference to the lives of men who need support.”

This year’s event, hosted at Pencoed Pool and Rugby Club in Bridgend, included individual competitors as well as teams of three, with separate members swimming, cycling and running.

New to 2017, the property triathlon saw the introduction of a ‘Buddy Up’ scheme, designed by Jehu to partner up individuals looking to complete just one leg of the race with their very own team mates to form a full squad. The novel initiative meant that professionals could still take part even if they did not have a team ready or did not want to complete the full triathlon themselves.

The scheme saw individuals sign up and buddy up with others through social media by requesting which leg of the triathlon they would like to complete. Teams were created from companies such as Trivallis, TC Consult, Linc Cymru and the Building Engineering Services Association.

Lydia Jones of Working Word, is one of the people who chose to #BuddyUp for the triathlon, keen to help raise awareness for the charity after losing a close friend to suicide herself, the actor and singer Dafydd Dafis, in April this year.

Lydia said: “Dafydd sadly suffered with depression most of his life, and it breaks my heart on a daily basis that I’ve lost him, so I was very keen to join Jehu’s triathlon and help raise awareness for CALM’s good work and its helpline.”

Jehu’s original Property Triathlon was started in honour of former Jehu Group employee, Hugh Walker, who sadly lost his life aged 46, just four months after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. The family-run construction and property firm has also supported Llamau the homeless charity prior to its support of CALM.

Managing Director of Development at Jehu Group, Simon Jehu, said: “It’s truly humbling to see our triathlon continue to grow and this year has been our biggest event to date. We are thankful to everyone that has shown their support for CALM, both those who took part in the race and those behind the scenes making valuable donations.

“As a family company, we have always tried to support charities that have a connection to our company in one way or another. Following the tragic loss of a colleague last year to suicide, for us, there was no question in supporting CALM as our charity of the year. As we have seen first-hand, suicide can affect anyone, and so it’s important to us that we can do all we can to support CALM in improving its services, raise awareness and promote understanding of the issues surrounding male suicide.

“The money we have raised is a real reflection of the hard work, dedication and generosity of people working across Wales’ property sector.”

Further donations: http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/jehugroup17

CALM’s helpline is 0800 585858 with webchat available on www.thecalmzone.net

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/04/welsh-businesses-raise-thousands-in-aid-of-male-suicide-awareness-with-charity-triathlon/

Discover the unique Innovation Trail at UK Construction Week

 

UK Construction Week, the largest gathering of the UK’s built environment community, is set to return to Birmingham NEC from 10 – 12 October. The show promises to be the largest and most impressive yet, with an anticipated 35,000 visitors and more than 650 market-leading exhibitors aiming to showcase the most pioneering products, services and working practices.

 

The construction industry is one of the most innovative industries, with new ways of working, sustainable products, collaboration and continually evolving technologies. UK Construction Week is set to prove this once more with the Innovation Trail – a trail that will bring together the very latest products and services that are changing and will change the way we build.

 

The Innovation Trail will include the latest in Mobile Mapping from Central Alliance. Central Alliance is the first surveying company to offer the ground-breaking ROBIN LiDAR mapping system that provides three alternative mounting options rolled into one solution, allowing the user to map a variety of areas via walking, driving or flying.

 

Graphene will showcase its 3D printed graphene shoe with pressure sensor.  This is an example of how adding graphene to pre-existing materials can increase its functionality.  At the least, this demo needs a lap to count the step on the pressure sensor.

 

Texo Drone will introduce advanced UAV services for construction surveying – the world’s first UAV integrated survey-grade LiDAR system.

 

Solisco will showcase its innovative Solar EV-Port Systems that offer a balanced solution to power cars with renewable energy whilst helping to balance the grid.

 

On display at UK Construction Week is the Clevertouch Pro 4k interactive touchscreen, which is tantamount to having a large tablet on the wall encompassing a digital whiteboard, annotation app, browser, access to files and documents, as well as a save and email function. It produces a stunning image incorporating 955% more pixels than a data projector. It’s a display you won’t be able to miss.

 

Designer and manufacturer of heating and hot water systems, Ecovolt will be showcasing its JouleTherm CeP product, in which technology turns a standard plasterboard wall into a very efficient radiant heater using a special conductive paint. The company will also be exclusively launching its JouleTherm H20 Hybrid Hot Water System that can turn waste heat into stored hot water through mechanical ventilation. If that’s not enough, Ecovolt will also display its JouleTherm JTR Electric Ceramic Heating System with multizonal central control technology.

 

Potterton Commercial, division of Baxi Group Ltd, will showcase its new ‘Assure’ range of boilers for social housing. Visitors can learn about how the product was developed in partnership with landlords and contractors, which resulted in the boilers incorporating useful safety and energy-saving features, while remaining quick and easy to install.

 

Introducing the new living comfort control system LUXORliving is the new ?exible comfort control from Theben, offering all-round home comfort without the complexity of many smart home systems. Switching and dimming lights, regulating the heating and controlling shutters, blinds or curtains are just a few features.

 

ZIP panelling, a technical revolution in construction. The product is a lightweight composite panel board designed for use in building construction for external walls, party walls, internal walls, cladding and flooring.

 

And last but by no means least, 3THERMO will showcase the world’s first hybrid concealed heating system at HVAC 2017.

 

Other companies confirmed to participate in the Innovation Trail include Kirona, Durisol, PowerCem Technologies, Safety Point and Sound Impact.

 

Consisting of Build Show, sponsored by EasyTrim, Timber Expo, Civils Expo, Plant & Machinery Live, Energy 2017, Smart Buildings 2017, Surface & Materials Show (featuring Kitchens & Bathrooms Live), HVAC 2017 and Grand Designs Live, UK Construction Week caters for the entire spectrum of the industry from builders, architects, innovators and consultants, each show provides exhibitors with the opportunity to network alongside decision makers and purchasers while showcasing their services and products to thousands of visitors.

 

For more information and free registration visit www.ukconstructionweek.com.

from The UK Construction Blog http://ukconstructionblog.co.uk/2017/10/02/discover-the-unique-innovation-trail-at-uk-construction-week/