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03/19 Switchboard +44 (0)20 7490 5595 Editor Will Mann In this issue 020 3865 1032 [email protected] Associate editor Neil Gerrard 020 3865 1031 [email protected] Production editor Sarah Cutforth Art editor Heather Rugeley 30 Community editor Nicky Roger Redesign art director Mark Bergin Advertising manager Dave Smith 0203 865 1029 Key account manager Tom Peardon 0203 865 1030 Credit control Eva Rugeley Managing director Stephen Quirke
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Editorial advisory board Mark Beard FCIOB, Ann Bentley, Ian Eggers, Peter Caplehorn, Harvey Francis, Professor Jacqui Glass FCIOB, Paul Morrell, James Pellatt, Nick Raynsford, Richard Saxon, Andy von Bradsky, Phil Wade
Construction Manager is published monthly by Atom Publishing. The contents of this magazine are copyright. Reproduction in part or in full is forbidden 22 10 26 without permission of the editor. The opinions expressed by writers of signed articles (even with pseudonyms) and letters appearing in the magazine News Technical Legal are those of their respective authors, and neither the CIOB, Atom Publishing nor Construction Manager is 04 £4m bill for Carillion tower 22 Jehovah’s Witnesses HQ 44 Liquidated damages responsible for these opinions or statements. The 06 Data: Regional starts editor will give careful consideration to material Concrete submitted – articles, photographs, drawings and 08 CCLG client buddy scheme Community so on – but does not undertake responsibility 09 Hackitt: start change now 26 Precast embraces BIM 46 Conservation conference for damage or their safe return. Printed by The 10 James Wimpenny interview 30 Brick-faced precast cladding 50 NI awards evening Wyndeham Group. All rights in the magazine, including copyright, content and design, are owned 14 Women on the tools 34 Structural versatility 51 Diary dates by CIOB and/or Atom Publishing. ISSN 1360 3566 36 Five concrete innovations Opinion Training & Recruitment 18 Project bank accounts bill BIM & Digital 58 Mentoring at Mace 20 Chris Blythe 38 Round table: Manufacturers 21 Feedback: Readers’ views 43 ISO 19650 need-to-knows
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03.CM.Mar19.Contents_sc.indd 3 19/02/2019 11:38 NEWS MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
06 DATA: REGIONAL STARTS 04-16 08 CCLG CLIENT BUDDY SCHEME 09 HACKITT: START CHANGE NOW 10 JAMES WIMPENNY INTERVIEW News 14 WOMEN ON THE TOOLS
News in pictures
£4m bill for glazing repair on Carillion tower
The cost of replacing failing glazing on the 47-storey Beetham Tower in Manchester (pictured) built by Carillion, is set to cost £4m, according to its owner. The building features fully glazed external elevations made up of glass panels and its owner North West Ground Rents (NWGR) was last month ordered by a High Court judge to undertake permanent remedial works to the building. Problems had emerged with the structural sealant used to bond the glass panels to a unitised frame which was hung from the edge of the floor slabs BIM use with MEWPs on the rise of the building. The use of digital MEWP objects is on the Now Malcolm Naish, chairman of NWGR’s increase after a selection was uploaded onto the NBS (National Building Specification) BIM parent company Ground Rents Income Fund, Library by the International Powered Access a real estate investment trust, has revealed Federation. BIM has been used extensively on that the cost of the works will be £4m the £70.5m new HSBC headquarters in Sheffield excluding VAT. (pictured), where architect Leonard Design has planned the building’s operational phase using Naish said: “In order to comply with the the MEWP objects. To find out more, turn to judgment NWGR will be required to finance page 4 of Powered Access magazine, bundled the remedial work and any litigation costs with this month’s issue of CM. while seeking recovery from Carillion’s insurers and BUG [subcontractor].”
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04_05CMMar19_news_sc..indd 4 19/02/2019 10:05 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 NEWS
Digital vision: Alex Lubbock of the Infrastructure & Projects For daily updates on the latest news, Authority on platform DfMA go to constructionmanagermagazine.com See BIM + Digital, p38
World’s largest 3D-printed News in quotes bridge built in Shanghai “It is a matter of some The world’s largest concrete 3D-printed bridge regret to me that it took has been built at the Wisdom Bay Industrial Park seven months to be in Shanghai by a team from Tsinghua University’s made public.” school of architecture. The bridge is 26.3m long Dame Judith Hackitt and 3.6m wide. The single-arched bridge was expressed her constructed from 176 concrete units that were disappointment to MPs printed using two robotic-arm 3D-printing systems. that the government’s The structure comprises 44 hollow units, while the delay in backing her deck is constructed from 68 pavement units. review of fire safety and Building Regulations led to a “loss of momentum” for reform.
“I feel glad that it is over and I feel totally vindicated by the action we have taken.” Redrow founder and chairman Steve Morgan reacted to winning substantial damages and an apology from Daily Mail publisher Associated Newspapers after a 2017 article TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE SCHOOL UNIVERSITY TSINGHUA falsely claimed he had bought houses Contractors picked for Old Oak meant for less-well-off and Euston HS2 stations buyers at a substantial A joint venture between Mace and Dragados has picked discount. The damages up the Euston HS2 terminus contract, beating bidders will be donated to two Costain/Skanska Construction UK and BAM Nuttall/Ferrovial special needs schools. Agroman. Meanwhile, a joint venture between Balfour Beatty, Vinci and Systra has won the Old Oak Common “A stench of project, seeing off competition from Mace/Dragados, complacency” Bechtel, and BAM Nuttall/Ferrovial Agroman. Designs for Sarah Jones, Labour the new station (pictured) were revealed last month. MP for Croydon Central, suggested there was Move over Banksy: Willmott complacency about replacing flammable Dixon art captures site life cladding on high-rise Willmott Dixon has used the skills of a buildings. She asked professional illustrator to promote life in the prime minister Theresa construction industry. Artist Lynne Chapman May why, 19 months on shadowed senior building manager Joshua from the Grenfell Tower Heavens on the £40m Rochdale Riverside disaster, 85% of them retail and leisure development. The sketches still hadn’t undergone aim to capture the human stories and remedial works. behaviours on site.
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04_05CMMar19_news_sc..indd 5 19/02/2019 10:06 NEWS MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
The amount a Bouygues joint venture was paid for its role in the scrapped £21.4m Garden Bridge project in London
Data
Best and worst-paying contractors revealed
Build UK contractors have reduced the amount of time they take to pay invoices from an average of 45 days to 43 days. The news came as the contractors published their payment results for a second time in six months.
60 21 Leeds
50 44 Manchester 40 34 Belfast
30
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10 Construction work hits 1 1 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 0 record level in regions 23 Birmingham The five fastest-paying The five slowest-paying Regional construction work hit record contractors are: contractors are: levels in 2018 amid strong confidence 1= Willmott Dixon: 32 days 1. Engie: 61 days among developers, according to the latest 1= Clugston: 32 days 2. Murphy Group: 57 days Deloitte Real Estate Crane Survey. 3. Vinci: 33 days 3. John Sisk & Son: The map shows the number of new 53 days 4. Canary Wharf construction starts in each city in 2018. Contractors: 34 days 4. Kier: 52 days 5. Mace: 34 days 5. Galliford Try: 50 days
News in numbers £275m 2025 5,000 3.5 9 0 The amount to which The date by which major The number of new The weight in tonnes The number of months The number of tower Interserve’s net debt housing association and homes volume of lithium-ion batteries it is expected to take cranes at the delayed will fall (from £650m) developer L&Q hopes to housebuilder Weston required to run what is Morgan Sindall to build Tottenham Hotspur if shareholders back be using MMC in all new- Group hopes to claimed to be the largest a new modular primary stadium in London, a “deleveraging plan” build homes, following manufacture offsite electric excavator school in Derby that being delivered by that involves issuing the launch of its new a year in its new ever built – a 26 tonne uses the Sunesis Mosaic Mace, after the last one £480m of new equity offsite strategy. £12m factory in developed by Caterpillar model developed by was finally removed at to creditors. Braintree, Essex. and Pon Equipment. Willmott Dixon and Scape. the end of January.
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which is poorly defined, and then there is a ‘Buddy’ pilot scheme tendency to go for the cheapest one without understanding what is or is not included. for inexperienced “The cowboy element of the industry tends to flourish on the back of that. So what we are trying to do is to make sure clients are well informed. clients launched “Less well-informed contractors will then need to up their game and those unwilling to do Heathrow Airport is CCLG AIMS TO RAISE CLIENTS’ one of the clients so will effectively find it difficult to secure work.” AWARENESS OF BEST PRACTICE backing the scheme Understanding the process The buddy scheme is live and CCLG hopes that through industry collaboration it will eventually become a sustainable national scheme and be able to be extended to include domestic clients. Eddie Tuttle, the CIOB’s director of policy, research and public affairs, said: “Having construction clients understand clearly how they fit into the construction process is so important, yet so often overlooked. “The goal of raising the perception of the WARREN ROHNER WARREN industry is one the CIOB has been working A “buddy” scheme that aims to support case studies on various types of work which towards with its new Quality Code of Practice small business owners unaware they are about people can go onto the website and view. which includes key references to having clients to become construction clients, by pairing “The hope is that, by looking at what other at the heart of project teams. Without the them with clients when needed, has launched. business owners have done, new clients will client being fully engaged in the project and The scheme, devised by the Construction pick up most of the answers to questions possibly lacking the knowledge and confidence Clients’ Leadership Group (CCLG) and funded they will want to ask. If they have any more to play their part effectively, quality can be by BEIS, the Chartered Institute of Building questions after that, they are able to fill in compromised and costs can spiral.” (CIOB), HSE and CCLG members, aims to a form online and we will arrange a call to He added: “This Construction Clients’ raise the perception of the industry as well discuss things in more detail. Leadership Group initiative goes a long as boosting productivity, reducing project The scheme has been based on the CCLG way towards addressing that, and should be costs and improve health and safety. model where members help each other to be welcomed by the construction sector.” ● CCLG said it wanted to make business owners better clients in specific areas. embarking on construction work aware that This concept was seized upon by the HSE’s they have duties they have to understand Construction Industry Advisory Committee The clients involved so far in and comply with, as set out in the CDM 2015 (CONIAC) working group as part of its work CCLG’s buddy scheme: Regulations. to reach and influence small employers and l The Crown Estate The body’s operations director Gren Tipper, occasional clients. l Landsec who is overseeing the project, said it would aim Explaining why the industry should get l Thames Tideway to answer most questions new clients had on its involved, Tipper said: “It is all too easy for clients l Liverpool University l Leeds University website. He said: “I am talking to experienced not to be clear in what they want in the first l Imperial College London clients and designers to try and capture all the place. Therefore they go to the industry with an l ProCure22 obvious questions that someone new to buying ill-informed brief of what the requirements are. l Heathrow Airport construction would want to ask. We are building They then start getting prices in for something
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08_09.CM Mar19.news_sc.indd 8 19/02/2019 10:24 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 NEWS
James Wates: programme will have a positive impact
evidence session, she said: “I recognised at the on several of the competency working groups, Hackitt urges time of doing the review that the regulatory set up following Hackitt’s report last June system would take time to redraft and there is to identify and develop specific competency construction to a good deal of work going on. frameworks and accreditation pathways. “I said in my review we did not need to Additionally, CIOB members are participating start ‘behaviour wait for the regulation before people started in the early adopters programme, established to change their behaviours. That is what we in July last year, to develop and showcase good change’ have been trying to push for and now we have practice, raise standards within the construction that clear message from government that the sector and help shape policy interventions. WATES CHAIRMAN SAYS regulations are going to be implemented in full Wates is one of the eight organisations IMPLEMENTATION OF HACKITT there is a need for us to underline that. There (see box) which have joined the programme. REVIEW RECOMMENDATIONS really is no reason to wait for the regulation James Wates, chairman of Wates Group, and ARE ‘CRITICAL’ before the behaviour change starts to happen.” past president of the CIOB who also sits on its Hackitt chairs the Industry Safety Steering quality commission, said: “We believe that the Group, set up to provide strategic oversight of implementation of the recommendations in cross-industry delivery work on the government’s the Hackett review are critical to the safety of Building Safety Programme. Members – drawn communities living in high rise accommodation. from various industry sectors and regulatory “The Wates Group has worked with MHCLG bodies – include CIOB past president and on their early adopters programme since its quality commission chair Paul Nash. inception, and we are confident it will have “The people who live, work and play in the a positive impact on the quality of people’s buildings that we create and manage have a homes for future generations.” ● right to expect that they are safe and, as an Dame Judith Hackitt has urged construction industry, we have a collective responsibility not to wait for regulatory reform and to begin to ensure they are safe,” said Nash. Hackitt early adopters changing the industry’s culture immediately. “The current system has too often programme participants: The government has promised to implement prioritised time and cost at the expense of l Kier the recommendations from her review of quality and, ultimately, safety. That system l Willmott Dixon Building Regulations and fire safety, which needs to change but that will only happen l Wates l followed the Grenfell Tower disaster, but if, as an industry, we look at what we do and United Living l Barratt Hackitt has expressed concern about how how we do it. We must recognise the need to l L&Q quickly the industry will respond. think and act differently if we are to deliver l Salix Homes Speaking before MPs during a Housing, buildings that are safe, now and in the future.” l Peabody Communities and Local Government Committee The CIOB is chairing or has representation
Construction mental health toolkit launched Mental health charity Mind has find out how to put employee how to deliver information say it does enough to support those launched a toolkit to help employees mental health and wellbeing at on mental health and start a who live with mental health issues. deal with the pressures of working the heart of their organisation. conservation in the workplace. We are delighted to support the in the construction industry. It shows companies how to write The CIOB’s head of toolkit and encourage our members Devised in conjunction with a Building Mental Health Charter, communications, Saul Townsend, to lead the way in supporting the volunteer organisation Building how to get access to Construction said: “Construction can offer an welfare of others in construction.” Mental Health, the toolkit contains Industry Helpline packs, and interesting, varied and sometimes To find out more information, information, links and resources to also has a link to a mental health exciting career. But as an industry go to: mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/ support construction employers toolbox talk showing employers it has a long way to go before it can construction
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08_09.CM Mar19.news_sc.indd 9 19/02/2019 10:25 NEWS MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Interview
‘WE HAVE TO RECOGNISE CHANGE IS NECESSARY’ THIS YEAR MARKS BAM’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY AND, WHILE PROUD OF ITS HERITAGE, THE COMPANY ISN’T RESTING ON ITS LAURELS. IN THE SECOND OF OUR CEO INTERVIEW SERIES, BAM CONSTRUCT’S UK CHIEF EXECUTIVE JAMES WIMPENNY TELLS WILL MANN HOW THE FIRM IS KEEPING PACE WITH THE SKILLS AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS OF A FAST-CHANGING INDUSTRY
Royal BAM Group celebrates its 150th birthday this year. Its history includes acquisition of UK firms Higgs & Hill, Kyle Stewart and GA Construction, and the building of some of Britain’s most famous landmarks: the Tate Gallery (1897), BBC TV Centre (1960) and the Lord’s Mound Stand (1987). BAM Construct’s UK chief executive James Wimpenny, himself 33 years with the company, is rightly proud of its built environment legacy: “These buildings are part of the fabric of society,
PHOTOGRAPHY: MORLEY VON STERNBERG VON MORLEY PHOTOGRAPHY: and the industry doesn’t always get credit for that.”
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10_12.CM.Mar19.news interview_sc.indd 10 19/02/2019 10:52 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 NEWS
Reflecting its focus on diversity, BAM Construct UK currently has 18 women 18 in apprenticeships
But he adds: “We have to look to the future. “Then we can start comparing the data Wimpenny on… The industry’s culture hasn’t changed much in properly. Internal efficiencies will come out … offsite construction a generation, but the speed that we now have of it. But we can also demonstrate to clients We’re examining to deliver has changed significantly.” how it can help their operational efficiencies.” what we can learn Digital technology, new approaches to Wimpenny points to a Netherlands hospital from our parent in the people management and a global outlook are BAM has built, the Erasmus Medisch Centrum Netherlands. We’ve at the forefront of Wimpenny’s thinking, as he in Rotterdam, where the operator is reducing built up our M&E starts his second year in the CEO job. operating costs with help from asset data the modular capability with an in-house Being part of a multi-national construction contractor supplied. “We could do the same business, which handles about 50% group helps in terms of ideas sharing, for an NHS trust here,” he says. of our engineering services work. Wimpenny says, adding that BAM’s 2,500- strong UK business is probably “learning more Single source of truth from its Netherlands parent and other group Another benefit from BIM, Wimpenny believes, ...working with tech start-ups businesses than ever before”. will be improved quality. The culture has already We now recognise the This year, Royal BAM Group has opened a changed dramatically post Grenfell, he says. potential of digital 3D concrete printing factory in Eindhoven “Quality management used to be a manual and data, and we’re and bought into Irish modular business MHI checklist,” he says. “But Grenfell changed starting to engage Homes. Wimpenny says he is examining how all that. We have delivered projects where with tech start-ups. the modular technology could work in the UK. subsequently there has been a refurbishment Construction is not used to working “Some schools in the UK are built almost and, if there’s a claim, it becomes difficult to with other industries; that’s a totally offsite now, and there are many establish who was responsible for what. So mindset we have to change. factory-built elements on all our projects,” we’ve realised we need a ‘single source of he says. “Can we exploit that further? In truth’ for all our projects, and that’s where the Netherlands they have very efficient digital comes in. manufacturing processes which means they “We are looking at a system where we can can get a house built within 100 days.” laser scan the built asset, and use artificial But he notes that introducing offsite, BIM intelligence to check if all the assets match the or other digital technology to a project is model. So if, for instance, the fire stops are not difficult, given the short lead-in. in the right places, that will quickly be flagged.” “The challenge for the industry is that the Wimpenny acknowledges that clients do not added value in what we do is in preconstruction always see the benefits of BIM, from a quality, – the design, planning and organising of the FM or whole-life operational perspective. project,” he says. “But we are not involved “We are quite fortunate in the BAM group to early enough to influence the front end. have the whole project life cycle represented James Wimpenny CV “So, the future is better use of data. It – property, design, construction and FM – and l Started out with his north-east business will help us make choices quicker at the that does influence our digital strategy,” he says. family’s construction in 2009. preconstruction stage. Then we can give a This “overarching view” of the sector is a firm Eric Wimpenny l Appointed BAM better outcome. And with that, will come trust key USP for the group, Wimpenny believes, and Son, which is still chief executive in trading today. in how data can improve our business.” and is reflected in graduate training. “They January 2018. l Joined BAM – then BAM now plans to bring standardised get to see all parts of the business through l Sits on the Higgs & Hill – in 1985. management board formats to all the data it uses on projects. secondments,” he explains. “People have l First major of Royal BAM Group. “Information management is at the heart historically stayed in one business, now we project was the l Yorkshire-born of everything we do so we need to get that might send them across to the Netherlands. Alhambra Theatre and a season refurb in Bradford. ticket holder at right,” he says. “That means all the hundreds We’re trying to bring through people who are l Appointed regional Huddersfield of projects around the BAM business will report, comfortable talking about digital to customers director of BAM Town AFC. manage and store their data in the same format. at all stages of the life cycle.
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10_12.CM.Mar19.news interview_sc.indd 11 19/02/2019 10:59 NEWS MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Wimpenny on… Casting the recruitment net wider is also, how different people react in different situations Wimpenny adds, an important part of BAM’s has been a real eye-opener,” says Wimpenny. “We ...Insight profiling Brexit safety net strategy. As is boosting are a people-driven business so it’s important, I’m a ‘green’– I work diversity. Wimpenny set up BAM’s diversity for instance, for a project manager to understand more on feel and like steering group three years ago, hiring a the relative strengths of his team so they’re not to be inclusive. It’s consultant to provide a “useful” external insight. all charging off in the same direction. important we understand “Since then, we’ve run unconscious bias training, “It’s a fast-changing world, where we need to how different people introduced ‘blind’ CVs for all recruitment, and be quick and agile, so we need the right people react; a project manager has to know last year we supported Pride,” he says. in different situations.” the relative strengths of the team. BAM has decided not to set gender quotas. Change management is “not easy in the “A nice ‘problem’ we have is that people tend construction industry”, Wimpenny believes, to stay here a long time, so it is harder to get but says, “we have to recognise it’s necessary”. … professional development women in to senior roles – the opportunities “We have 150 years of history at BAM, we’re Both the industry and our aren’t there,” Wimpenny explains. “However, profitable, we keep winning work – so people people need to recognise more female recruits are coming through at think we’re doing ok,” he says. “So it can be their development needs; graduate trainee level and among apprentices.” hard to get the change message through. it’s a two-way street. “We see how other industries are changing – we Our people need to Diversity in apprenticeships built the new Rolls-Royce factory in Rotherham develop digital skills and improve BAM focuses its recruitment on apprentice- three years ago, and saw how they completely their softer skills. The industry needs ships, and since the levy changed two years ago, re-engineered their old factory into a futuristic, to help with that development. Wimpenny says it has “allowed us to develop hi-tech plant. It’s hard to see such a transformation bespoke training, more connected to what we do, in construction, but we need to try.” ● than generic industry schemes”. He also sees it “This is important because we want long- as the best way to boost diversity; the company term, collaborative relationships with our currently has 18 women in apprenticeships, clients, such as with Argent at King’s Cross. around a fifth of the total, and the CEO says the Digital makes it easier to collaborate – working “proportion is progressively going up”. in a virtual environment, making adjustments “We feel the chance of increasing diversity to models, which allow you quickly to see the is better among younger people, whereas cost implications.” graduates have usually already decided about A conundrum for all construction companies is career routes,” he says. that, while young recruits come into the business Beyond diversity, BAM is trying to improve digitally literate, many in the existing workforce “soft” skills more broadly, which Wimpenny says are not. BAM is trying to address that through a “may be the biggest thing we need to change formalised mentoring system, where the digital about our industry, more so than the technical skills of younger generations are matched skills”. The company has recently run insight up with technical knowhow of established profiling for its staff – which assigns people workers to share knowledge. “Mentoring colours based on their preferred working styles. has always been there informally, but we’ve Wimpenny says his ‘lead colour’ is green. recognised it needs more structure because of “I tend to work more on feel,” he says. “I’m not a the speed of change,” says Wimpenny. ‘do this’ type of person, I like to be inclusive and Wimpenny expects more digital skills to come believe you get the best out of people by creating into the industry from outside construction. the right environment for them to work in.” “I can see more roles emerging for data analysts – The insight profiling assigns three other lead if the attitude is right, we can train the necessary colours to people: red – competitive, yellow – technical construction skills,” he says. creative, or blue – analytical. “Understanding BAM’s CEO presents the outcome of his insight profiling
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10_12.CM.Mar19.news interview_sc.indd 12 19/02/2019 10:52 Yes there are alternatives to NHBC
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P089 - Construction Manager - Alternatives to NHBC - March 2019 - RHP_V1.indd 1 28/01/2019 15:18 NEWS MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
% % 2Just 2% of the workforce in skilled manual 39In 2017, 39% of manual workers across trades are female, according to CITB figures all industries in the UK were female
WHERE ARE ALL THE WOMEN ON THE TOOLS? WOMEN ARE GROSSLY UNDERREPRESENTED IN SKILLED MANUAL CONSTRUCTION ROLES. NEIL GERRARD ASKS WHAT CAN BE DONE TO BOOST THE NUMBER OF ‘WOMEN ON THE TOOLS’
Nowhere is it more obvious that women are underrepresented in the construc- tion industry than at ground level, on the sites themselves. The contrast Only 14.5% of the construction between the workforce as a whole is female, but number of women shockingly that drops to just 2% when in skilled manual it comes to skilled manual trades, construction roles and those in according to CITB figures. That’s a manual roles in the number that has changed little since wider workforce is 2014 and lags well behind the rest of immediately visible the economy. Across all industries in 2017, 39% of manual workers in Employing more women on site among manual workers during the the UK were female. ought to be a “no-brainer”, particularly £20m restoration of York Minster was While several larger employers given the industry’s much-publicised an impressive 40%,” notes Thompson. are making efforts to redress the skills shortage. “A diverse team is Meanwhile, one in six joiners, one in balance, there are still very few more profitable, more innovative and three glaziers, and 25% of stonemasons “women on the tools”. Ahead of happier,” asserts Rebecca Thompson, at the £12.4m restoration of Lincoln International Women’s Day on CIOB past president 2017/18 and Cathedral under main contractor 8 March, CM asks why the number founder of Thompson Heritage William Birch & Sons were women. of females in skilled trades positions Consultancy. Thompson thinks that the way is so low – and what is being done to The heritage sector bucks the wider in which employers communicate change this? industry trend. “Female representation about site-based opportunities is
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14_16.CM Mar19.women_sc.indd 14 19/02/2019 12:37 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 NEWS
Wendy’s story Wendy Gill has worked as a self-employed tiler for 10 years
key when it comes to attracting York Minster: women. “Employers need to soften women are better representated in the language they use, and that is not manual roles in the just for women but when considering heritage sector diversity in every respect,” she says. Hand-in-hand with that goes the creation of a more welcoming team ethos on site, while Thompson also highlights the importance of providing better welfare facilities in order to entice more female workers “I spent 10 years in an office-based into manual trades – an issue that “Female representation role but I couldn’t shake off the contractors like Multiplex are now feeling of dissatisfaction. trying to address (see box, p16). among manual workers “I had already completed a Campaign group Women and during the £20m restoration basic tiling course so I thought Manual Trades (WMT), formerly of York Minster was an I might as well try my luck with that. “I was really surprised at the known as Women on the Tools, wants impressive 40%” Rebecca Thompson, response I received and wondered more effort in engaging women in the CIOB past president if there could be a place in the manual trades sector of the industry. market for a female tiler. Part of social housing procurement “Fast forward a few years later, with a Tiling NVQ level 2 body Procure Plus, WMT argues that qualification, a van and a website women are generally keen to know under my belt, I’m finally feeling a more about skilled trade careers in sense of satisfaction. construction when it is presented as As part of this, WMT has devised the “It’s definitely a challenge an option. 3:2 initiative, which is designed to overcoming the stereotypical views associated with a woman doing “We’re calling for employers to be secure students studying a trade paid what’s perceived to be a ‘man’s role’. braver, ring-fencing apprenticeship work experience in construction on the “Teaming up with other trades- roles for women, or guaranteeing two days a week they have free from women is beneficial, particularly on interviews for female applicants,” college, to help them build their larger projects. We like to think we bring a fresh approach to bathroom says Mike Brogan, chief executive of confidence about working in the sector. design and the domestic bathroom Procure Plus. “We have been working Contractors including Connolly, Dodd fitting industry.” with employers and colleges to help Group, Emanuel Whittaker, Jackson & them reach women who are keen to Jackson and the Casey Group are Source: Women and Manual Trades take up such roles.” supporting the scheme.
Donna’s story “After over 15 years in the local college. It took some I was the girlfriend of one of the voluntary sector, I wanted months but I eventually found other students and had come Donna Lister to do something different. another electrician to take me along to show support. as worked as a I asked my electrician if I on as a part-time apprentice. “Determination helps a lot. self-employed could shadow him. I enjoyed It just so happened she was Plus being connected to a small domestic the variety of the work and another woman. but amazing network of female electrician for was encouraged when he “When looking for my first electricians. In fact, many of said I had potential. job, I found it hard to get my clients choose me because 12 years “I quit my job and enrolled anyone to take me seriously. I am female.” on a two-year part-time City When I had my interview at and Guilds course at my college, the tutor thought Source: Women and Manual Trades PORTRAITS THIS PAGE: LEO HILLIER PHOTOGRAPHY THIS PAGE: PORTRAITS
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14_16.CM Mar19.women_sc.indd 15 19/02/2019 12:49 NEWS MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
% 40Women make up 40% of the workforce on site at the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ UK HQ, p22
Jean Duprez warns that labour agencies are Multiplex leads call for discouraging women applicants better facilities
“If you think Contractor signs up to Unite’s about how ‘period dignity’ campaign much labour in construction comes through But encouraging more women into the agencies, manual trades involves more than and they just targeting the employers and are saying educators, says Jean Duprez, director they can’t of Duprez Consulting and Women Into take females Construction. on, then we She worries that labour agencies, definitely have which contractors rely on heavily, a problem” discourage women from coming onto Jean Duprez, their books because they don’t regard Women into the construction environment as Construction Not many sites provide adequate facilities for female workers suitable for women. Multiplex has become one of the first l Sanitary bins are provided and they “A rising female star of one of the contractors to sign up to a scheme are cleaned and emptied regularly; and pre-employment programmes I work devised by Unite calling for better l Sanitary products are provided on was rejected by one of these welfare units. A survey of Unite’s in a dispenser in a discreet location, employment agencies,” Duprez says. female construction members found free to workers. this was a “major issue” for many Multiplex head of community “If you think about how much workers, particularly when they engagement Caron Dunlop said: labour in construction comes through were having their periods. “At Multiplex, we are committed the agencies, and they are saying Members’ responses to the survey to providing great workspaces for they can’t take females on, then we included: “The toilets where I’m everyone, which includes making our definitely have a problem.” working are unisex Portaloos. These sites as comfortable for women as they are usually disgusting.” are for men, so supporting the period Duprez says that there needs to Another said: “One Portaloo. No dignity campaign at our University be more governance of employment separate changing facilities. No of Glasgow Campus Development agencies to ensure that they provide sanitary product bins or dispensers. project complements what we a minimum proportion of female Asked for sanitary bins, got ignored. currently provide.” If a female says anything they don’t “Our work identifying new ways of workers to industry, advocating the like, they put it down to PMT.” improving our workspaces for everyone creation of a kitemark-style scheme The four-point “period dignity” has recently led to the development to show that agencies comply with plan asks for companies to ensure: of a whole new standard for temporary minimum standards. l Each site or depot has a designated construction accommodation and While construction has recently female toilet, which is always offices – Multiplex Better Workspaces accessible, regularly cleaned and – and we are planning to certify all began waking up to the lack of diversity lockable; of our sites to this standard by the in the industry, and the shortcomings it l Handwashing facilities with running end of the year.” leads to, there is clearly still a long way water and soap are provided in all Unite said other sites are expected to go before women on the tools start welfare facilities; to sign up in the coming weeks. to be regarded as the norm on sites. ●
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18-21 Opinion
Once a contracting authority has authorised payments, they will have to be deposited in a PBA Rudi Klein where the monies have trust status. This means SEC Group a tier 1 contractor’s insolvency practitioner will not be able to have access to the funds in the PBA. Both contracting authority and contractor What will the Project will be trustees of the monies and either the authority or contractor will be account Bank Accounts Bill do? holders. Instructions will be issued to the bank to release the monies simultaneously to the tier 1 RUDI KLEIN SETS OUT THE BENEFITS OF contractor and subcontractor beneficiaries. MP DEBBIE ABRAHAMS’ PRIVATE MEMBERS’ Whether or not a subcontractor is a BILL CALLING FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF beneficiary will be dependent upon the value PROJECT BANK ACCOUNTS, WHICH IS READ of the subcontract; the aim is to include within FOR THE SECOND TIME THIS MONTH the PBA as many subcontractors as possible. A subcontractor will then be able to receive payments within as little as three days once the monies are in the PBA. The bill will extend to the whole of the UK. It is expected that there will be widespread support from the industry. It was no accident that it was introduced in parliament on the same date that Amid all the hullabaloo around the Brexit contractors in the supply chain. Public bodies Carillion went bust a year earlier. If PBAs had debate in parliament, the Public Sector Supply don’t go bust, meaning that tier 1 contractors’ been in place on all Carillion’s public sector Chains (Project Bank Accounts) Bill has been monies are protected. This protection is not, projects, the losses incurred by firms on those introduced. This was a private member’s bill of course, available along the supply chain. projects would have been far less. laid by Debbie Abrahams MP, a long-standing The bill will require that the following are Messages in support of the bill should be parliamentary campaigner for fair payment. deposited or kept in a PBA: sent to Debbie Abrahams. A second reading of The bill will mandate the use of project bank l progress payments; the bill is due on 1 March, having been heard in accounts (PBAs) in the public sector for all tier 1 l disputed amounts as between a tier 1 parliament on 15 January. ● contracts over £500,000. It acknowledges that contractor and subcontractor beneficiaries; and Rudi Klein is chief executive of the Specialist there is a disparity in insolvency protection l supply chain retention monies (if Engineering Contractors’ (SEC) Group and as between tier 1 contractors and other deducted by the tier 1 contractor). president of the NEC Users’ Group.
The inception of VAT reverse As it becomes the customer’s delaying payment until the Reverse VAT means charging as of October 2019 responsibility to account for VAT, issue is reconciled. will undoubtedly cause three there will be no opportunity for l Supply chain contractors more payment major headaches for industry. the supplier to disappear. But it will no longer be able to use the headaches The mechanism sees the will lead to three major issues: monies owed to HMRC as VAT customer responsible for VAT, l In businesses that operate as working capital. rather than the supplier. across consumer, tier 1 and lower Subcontractors will need to The reverse charge aims tiers of the supply chain, staff prepare for this, to ensure the to prevent missing trader will have to be retrained; short-term challenges do not fraud – where a supplier l If subcontractors do not adapt prove insurmountable. The new VAT reverse charge charges VAT, is paid it, then and get their paperwork in order, Rob Driscoll is deputy director of will cause more payment “goes missing” before then tier 1 contractors will use business policy and practice at the headaches, warns Rob Driscoll declaring to HMRC. non-compliance as a means of Electrical Contractors Association.
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18.CMMar19_opinion_sc.indd 18 19/02/2019 12:48 New ads CM 208_255 template.indd 12 21/01/2019 15:44 OPINION MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Chris Blythe Chief executive CIOB
Top-earning QSs are now reported to be seriously prejudice their ability to do their pocketing £100,000 a year, according to best for the end user, the ultimate beneficiary recent reports. Comment of the construction process. Put that alongside the following comments, To be balanced, I must add that the first from Dame Judith Hackitt. In her interim characterisation Dame Judith puts on, say, review report, it says: “It has been observed value engineering is considered by some that the use of ‘value engineering’ is almost Greed isn’t good people unfair and misrepresents what value always about cutting cost out of a project, engineering is about. THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY NEEDS at times without due reference to key But the overall tone of her reports – and TO PUT ASIDE GREED AND FOCUS specification requirements…” what it says about the industry culture – have ON THE NEEDS OF THE END USER IF Another significant quote comes from not been challenged because it is true. IT WANTS TO AVOID A RACE TO THE the CIOB publication on Construction and BOTTOM, SAYS CHRIS BLYTHE the Modern Slavery Act. A leading dispute Stamp duty slowdown resolution expert says: “We have trained a As the squeeze seems to continue in generation of young people in the industry contracting, the “woe is me” is coming to think beating up subcontractors is the way from the London apartment builders. As business should be done – it is shameful. “ one said, the higher levels of stamp duty My final quote, again from Dame Judith have all but killed off the central London in her final report, neatly summarises all property market. It has all but killed off of this: “The issues have helped to create high-end properties. a cultural issue across the sector, which Most of us find it difficult to relate to the can be described as a ‘race to the bottom’ slowdown in the high-end property market caused either through ignorance, indifference, – especially as many of the properties at or because the system does not facilitate “The overall tone of this level are barely occupied with absentee good practice.” Dame Judith Hackitt’s owners. This market is not a market for There are many people who work in reports – and what it says Londoners. contractors and subcontractors who are about the industry culture – Dame Judith was correct when she said familiar with these sentiments. I know that have not been challenged that our culture is one of ignorance and because it is the one recurrent theme that indifference. What she did not include was comes up time and time again from people because it is true” greed, but that can be clearly inferred. I just I meet. hope that those raking in the £100,000 are It is not just a sense of aggravation, but a about delivering real value rather than heartfelt belief that these sorts of behaviour driving the race to the bottom. ●
Search under way for new CIOB CEO The search is under way for a new chief shown significant leadership on a range of issues He added: “The CIOB has an ambition to secure executive of the CIOB, following Chris Blythe’s – consumer protection from rogue tradespeople, a first-class new CEO. The ideal candidate will announcement that he will retire in May this year. helping to establish the industry initiative ‘Trustmark’; bring strategic leadership, business judgement and Headhunter Kinvara Partners has been supporting work to tackle ‘cover pricing’, an illegal political nous to the role, along with an overview appointed to handle the mandate on behalf of form of bid rigging; the collaboration with Stronger of the importance of the industry and how it the CIOB. Blythe is one of the longest-serving Together, an industry alliance, to help construction influences and shapes society and the economy.” chief executives at a professional body, having businesses tackle modern slavery and, most recently, Kinvara will evaluate potential candidates over served in the role for almost 20 years. overseeing the launch of the CIOB Construction Quality the next few weeks, with an eye to final interviews Chris Soffe, CIOB president, said: “With Commission as a response to the increasing number of by the end of March. More information is available Chris’s influence and experience, the CIOB has failures in public infrastructure and housing projects.” at www.kinvarapartners.com/current-opportunities
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20_21.CM Mar19.Chris Blythe.feedback_sc.indd 20 19/02/2019 11:44 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 OPINION
Concrete special: the rise of brick-faced precast cladding, p32
Feedback
Organisations are calling for construction A selection of readers’ comments about roles to be added news and issues in the industry from to the Shortage www.constructionmanagermagazine.com Occupation List
CM 25/01 CM 08/02 CM 25/01 CM 12/02 Shortage rolls call L&Q survey: young people shun construction Housing complaints Sprinkler advice
Stephen McGowan Anthony Carroll Les Jennison Kevin J Sherwood Gary With limited labour available L&Q are to be commended The construction, and Well it’s most definitely Let’s be realistic. If it’s not in the UK, the industry has to for leading the way here housebuilding Industry, long overdue. The in the building code then make itself more attractive and investing £1m of their together with offsite customer, whether of it’s unlikely developers than other sectors. own funds into a schools construction, robotics and rented or new homes, will act on a “crucial Unfortunately, construction programme. energy efficiency/carbon should have peace of mind recommendation”. companies don’t look at this. reduction programmes and know there is a clear The only reason construction Austin Hargreaves affect every individual in support system there if Charles is short of labour is due to the I joined the industry in this country, and the world. unfortunately required. Gary, yes that would be industry itself not investing 1965 and have found I cannot see that this is I am in the industry the “Show me where it in its own Industry, It’s not construction to be so boring – on the contrary, and I feel it may help says” approach. up to government to ensure interesting, challenging, we all face the greatest improve the standards Just as well there are the correct skills are available rewarding and financially a available challenge, and of workmanship – that very limited consequences to sustain construction very stable means of having the work is completely for some time now have (in the event of a fire with companies, it’s up to the a most enjoyable life. satisfying. continued to fall below casualties) for people companies themselves. I technically retired at what I believe to be good who make decisions like age 57 years old, but as Hazel Howell-Smith enough, as the industry this, isn't it? Roy A an experienced senior Delighted to read this is fundamentally driven If politicians (of all parties) manager, I still found lots article as I have long since by maximum productivity Tania stopped using the industry as of opportunities to assess thought that there has not and profits. The London Fire Brigade a political football, and gave other managers, so that been enough emphasis on Housebuilders’ boards fail to acknowledge the workers secure jobs instead they could obtain NVQ jobs in the construction seem not to be overly additional health and of seeing them as casual level 6 or 7 qualifications, industry during careers concerned about the safety risks to residents workers, young people might as experienced, safe and advice in schools. end customer. that fitting sprinklers will see the industry as a future competent members of I truly hope that L&Q create. Very blinkered prospect for themselves. the qualified construction succeeds in promoting approach on their part. Additionally, when workforce. interest in the variety of employers finally wake up to The range of construction work available to learn and the fact that they ALL need projects never ceases to to reassure students that to train apprentices, instead amaze me and generates they can succeed and be of waiting for someone else as much job satisfaction proud to be a part of this to do it, they may have the now as it did when I joined essential work. “skilled” workforce they as a 16-year-old. keep saying they need.
Graham Skeer We have had this situation Provide your own feedback on latest industry issues by posting comments with EU nationals working online at www.constructionmanagermagazine.com or emailing the editor for wages well below the UK at [email protected] average, thus taking UK jobs.
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20_21.CM Mar19.Chris Blythe.feedback_sc.indd 21 19/02/2019 11:44 TECHNICAL MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
CONCRETE: 26 PRECAST EMBACES BIM 30 BRICK-FACED PRECAST 34 STRUCTURAL VERSATILITY 22-41 36 FIVE INNOVATIVE PROJECTS BIM & DIGITAL: 38 ROUND TABLE: MANUFACTURERS Technical 43 ISO 19650 NEED-TO-KNOWS MARCO TIDEI
Volunteer workers live on site in completed WITNESSING A MODEL residential buildings CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IT’S A CONSTRUCTION SITE, BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT. KRISTINA SMITH TOURS THE REMARKABLE NEW JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES’ LIVE-WORK HEADQUARTERS TAKING SHAPE IN ESSEX
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22_25.CM Mar19.tech Jehovah_sc.indd 22 19/02/2019 14:10 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 TECHNICAL
Ian and Laura Cogswell are full‑time construction volunteers
Walking round the site of the new Jehovah’s together. They describe themselves Jehovah’s Witness (JW) headquarters Witnesses HQ as “members of a religious order” and buildings in Chelmsford, Essex, is a bit Scope: live-work receive only what they need to live. development of like being in a promotional video for 40,000 sq m Those who are working on site for “It’s not uncommon what the industry should be like. You can Cost: £150m a while, stay on site. Four of the six for contractors to say this imagine kids watching it and thinking Client: Jehovah’s residential blocks are already occupied is the best site they have “Yeah, that looks a fun place to work.” Witnesses by volunteers. And there is also a village ever worked on” It’s difficult to say what is most Architectural and of caravans. This live-work approach Rob McRedmond shocking: the demographics or the structural design: to construction has been lauded by project director in-house diversity. There are a lot of young BREEAM assessors as an admirable Building services people on this site. Lunchtime in the design: Crofton way to reduce carbon emissions and large canteen, one of three sittings, Consulting congestion on surrounding roads. plant, the silver insulating lagging is a bit like being back at university. Interior design: Given the number of volunteers and around the pipes is the neatest you will John Evans Walking round the job, there are almost the wide range of skills and experience, ever have seen. Fire, security and as many women as men, with a woman alarms: Siemens the other aspect that surprises about For those packages of work that are smiling from the wheel of most pieces Landscaping design: this project is the quality of what they subcontracted out, JW’s standards are of construction equipment. Murdoch Wickham are delivering. “Don’t mistake the equally high: “We are not developers, we Everybody is happy here. The senior Piling contractor: word ‘volunteer’ for ‘unskilled’,” warns are building a facility that we are going managers are greeted with waves, Van Elle McRedmond. “People are either very to live in. When we contract somebody handshakes and even a hug. “Everyone Concrete frame: HPC skilled or highly skilled.” to do the work, we introduce the idea here is doing it because they really want Roofing: In the basement of one of the that we want the best work possible,” Contour Roofing to be here,” says Keith Cady, project residential blocks, inspecting the says McRedmond. “It has surprised Programme: design manager for JW. “We don’t have combined heat and power (CHP) some contractors, the level of quality 2014 – 2015: to give them a cheerleading speech to Site clean-up management that we have here.” get them motivated.” July 2015 – A mind-boggling 4 million November 2016: Search for a site Earthworks volunteer hours have gone into this JW’s UK branch moved into its current November 2016: 40,000 sq m project which will be a Construction begins headquarters in Mill Hill, London in live-work campus and the new UK December 2019: 1959. Since then the organisation had headquarters for Jehovah’s Witnesses. Construction changed and grown and over time It is actually several projects in one: six complete purchased properties at Wembley, residential blocks, a central building Boreham Wood and Friern Barnet. for events and gatherings, an office “Things got fragmented and spread block, two warehouse buildings, a out,” says Cady. sports hall and swimming pool. From JW’s six-year search for a new home here, the organisation will print its covered 300 sites before it found the magazine The Watchtower, and carry 33ha Temple Farm site in Chelmsford, out work related to online publication Essex. Having been a car breaker’s yard and translation. and an illegal waste processing site, the Some volunteers have worked on area was in a sorry site. the site for years, some come for a few Chelmsford Council welcomed them days, some just for one day. Cady and with open arms, says McRedmond, who Rob McRedmond, the project director, was involved with the search. “While Husband and have been delivering projects for JW for we had in mind a different property, wife volunteers 33 and 27 years respectively – though working on when we met with the local Chelmsford this is the first time they have worked drywall installation Council, they recommended this site
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22_25.CM Mar19.tech Jehovah_sc.indd 23 19/02/2019 14:10 TECHNICAL MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
The 40,000 sq m campus just outside Chelmsford has involved 4 million hours 4,000,000 of volunteer work by Jehovah’s Witnesses
because planning permission already Existing trees, including oaks, and The five-storey residential build- existed for a previous development ancient hedgerows have been saved and ings, with their in-situ reinforced that did not go forward.” exploited in the design while 700 more concrete frames and brick facades, Cady says that the planning process trees have been planted. A strategy to are cleverly designed so that car parks has been “very smooth”. “We have never increase biodiversity is already bearing at ground level appear to be under- waited for any planning permissions and fruit, with the return to the site of the ground. Earth is ramped up to the never been held up in any way by the endangered European dormouse. first-floor level, reducing the height planning or approval process,” he says. The development has been assessed of the blocks visually. The council’s planning officers as Outstanding under BREEAM, The civic building is steel frame have been intimately involved in the only the second to do so under its to allow open spans, clad in precast scheme, making suggestions about a community scheme. It has also won concrete which has come to the site from whole host of things from windows the very first innovation credit for a fabricator in Belgium. The two ware- and views to the style and feel of the a community scheme, thanks to the house buildings are long-span portal buildings. And, perhaps unlike some environmental benefits of having much frames with cladding coloured to help commercial architectural firms, Cady of its workforce living on site. blend them into the hills behind the site. and his team have been willing to take The design team considered four those suggestions and work with them. Several projects in one different systems before choosing Though thousands of car carcasses Having gained planning approval reinforced concrete in situ frames for were removed by the previous owner, in 2015, earthworks ran on the site the four-storey office block. “One of
JW still had a massive clean-up between July 2015 and November 2016 Volunteers will the reasons we went for reinforced operation when it arrived on site in 2014. when contractor Van Elle began work pitch in and help concrete is that it acts as a thermal Much of the ground was contaminated, on the first concrete-piled foundations. subcontractors mass,” says Cady. as revealed by an extensive borehole survey, and 800 tyres were unearthed and recycled. The saving grace was that the contamination was largely limited to the top 600mm, since below that is clay. The clean-up involved moving the contaminated ground into huge heaps to be sorted through by volunteers for anything recyclable. The remaining muck was then entombed in a clay- lined pit at the edge of the site. The location is registered but should not be disturbed again, says Cady. “That saved us millions,” he comments. The landscaping of the site is an impressive project in itself. Landscape architect Murdoch Wickham is working to create what will be a beautiful facility for those living on campus and for local residents, as there is a public footpath running around part of the boundary. There were several ponds on site which are being added to, with some
of them forming part of a SUDS system. HANNAH SHANKLAND
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22_25.CM Mar19.tech Jehovah_sc.indd 24 19/02/2019 14:11 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 TECHNICAL
Some 700 trees have been planted, and ancient
JATHAN ROGERS JATHAN hedgerow saved
The building services for the office, now being fitted out, have been designed to allow the spaces to be open plan, portioned or a combination of the two. “One of the things the client “We had a number of was very interested in was flexibility in women on site and we found design,” says Cady. A system involving out that they made excellent 3m by 4.5m modules, with chilled heavy plant operators” beams, has delivered this require- Keith Cady, ment. The fire system was a particular project design manager
challenge, with the solution being an BLEEKER DAVID aspirating system. Women make up around 60% of the site’s plant operators Both warehouse buildings were well This includes letting packages out to progressed by January 2019, with a meet programme and volunteer skills Women on site: no big deal steel stud and plasterboard contractor constraints and changing scope where The Jehovah’s Witnesses “We don’t have working on office space and changing necessary, for instance swapping to (JW) project in Chelmsford prejudice. We don’t have room facilities at the ends of the permeable asphalt from block paving has almost inadvertently wolf-whistling on site buildings. As were the steel-framed on a car park to help with programme become a champion of or any disrespectful women in construction. behaviour,” says JW sports hall and cross-laminated timber and budget. It came about because project manager Rob swimming pool, which make up a Subcontractors aren’t expected to many of the thousands McRedmond, who has wellbeing centre. work with volunteers. However, if they of Jehovah’s Witnesses worked with women on look as if they need it, McRedmond who have turned up to numerous previous JW Good progress would offer help: “If a contractor is volunteer – some of them projects. for months or years – There are female A huge amount has been achieved on falling behind or does not have the are women. tradespeople on site this site in just over two years. The resources, we pitch in and help them. “There are a lot of too. We walk past a male landscaping has progressed in parallel We encourage them to come to us if young couples,” says and female plasterer. with the building which means that by they have any difficulties.” Keith Cady, project The man seems to be architect for JW. “They explaining something to the time everything is done and dusted It feels like a good environment come because one of them his colleague. at the end of this year, the site will be to work in. “It’s not uncommon for has a particular skill set, “That’s funny,” well established. contractors to say this is the best in some cases the man, in comments McRedmond Though many construction managers site they have ever worked on,” says some cases the woman, with a wry smile, would dread the prospect of working McRedmond. although the reality is that “because she’s actually it’s more often the man. far more experienced with a mixed team of subcontractor and It’s certainly rare to come across a “We found we had a than him.” volunteers, the opposite has been the site with its own hairdresser. Yet, here, number of women on site The most noticeable case here. “Rob and I have not worked there is one. A hairdresser who lives in so we started looking at thing about this site on many projects that have run this a neighbouring town donates a day or the best way to use them. is that there’s nothing We found out that they special about being a smoothly,” says Cady. That said, many half a day a week. She’s contributing made excellent heavy woman here. And that of Cady and McRedmond’s projects her time, which means fewer expenses plant operators.” means that female have been overseas where working to pay to the volunteers, explains The team put a site workers want to stay on environments, skills levels and cultural McRedmond – which in turn helps the training plan in place for a the project, and that they constraints are far more challenging. donations from members go further. variety of equipment, such encourage their friends to as telehandlers, diggers volunteer here too. The project is run by a committee Leaving site, it’s still a bit of a shock and cranes. Now around There’s got to headed up by McRedmond, with Cady to be waved at so enthusiastically by 40% of the workforce and be a lesson for the and three others. They take deci- the security guards. But it does mean 60% of the plant drivers wider industry in here sions together and have autonomy that visitors leave with a smile on are women. somewhere. to run the project in the best way. their face. ●
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22_25.CM Mar19.tech Jehovah_sc.indd 25 19/02/2019 14:11 CONCRETE MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
26-37 Concrete
Clockwise from top left: Detail of BIM’s relationship with concrete to Makda says: “Digital construction can Techrete’s model for the V&A Dundee; date is a tale of two halves. While BIM facilitate the workflow between different FP McCann used Tekla to custom use on reinforced concrete frame stakeholders on a project. An architect design bespoke precast units for DIRFT; Creagh’s concrete cores for the projects has been limited, as CM’s can send their 3D model to the precast company’s HSBC project in Sheffield research with Trimble on p28 shows, firm, who can create a highly detailed the precast sector is quickly discovering model with all the embeds, reinforcement the technology’s benefits. and so on, while the engineer can use “Precast is perfectly placed to exploit the model to assess the structural BIM,” says Matthew Butcher, environ- characteristics, such as wind loading.” mental and technical officer at British FP McCann became the first precast Precast. “Precast firms are working in a specialist to achieve BIM Level 2 controlled factory environment, which accreditation with BSI, two years ago, HOW QUICKLY is ideal for the principles of design for and completed its first BIM Level 2 manufacture and assembly.” project last year, a warehouse job at IS CONCRETE “The government is prioritising the Daventry International Rail Freight use of offsite manufacturing, and Terminal (DIRFT). ADOPTING BIM? now wants a ‘platforms’ system of “The shift to working in a data-rich standardised components, while major 3D environment has meant significant THE CONCRETE SECTOR’S BIM JOURNEY clients like Heathrow are also moving additional work, training people in new IS PROGRESSING AT DIFFERENT SPEEDS; in this direction.” software and developing components PRECAST SPECIALISTS ARE EMBRACING THE BIM software house Trimble sees with embedded data,” explains senior TECHNOLOGY, BUT IT’S EARLY DAYS FOR THE exciting digital possibilities for the technician Colin Mackenzie. “Benefits RC FRAME SECTOR. WILL MANN REPORTS precast sector. Business manager Ismail have included clash detection, for
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26_28.CM Marb19.concreteopener_sc.indd 26 19/02/2019 14:26 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 CONCRETE
Techrete used Tekla to model the positioning of 2,400 concrete planks at the V&A Dundee
example, allowing steel frame issues to on cost build-up for estimates, reduced be highlighted early, and quicker design.” lead times, and improved timeframes The company typically works with “Benefits have included during the critical path process. the architect’s 3D model and Mackenzie clash detection, for example, “We are seeing better quality says federated models are rare. “We allowing steel frame issues control, with a reduction in remakes generally work at LOD [level of detail] of to be highlighted early, and miscasts, plus we can be sure of 4 or 5,” he says. “More recently, we have and quicker design” ordering the exact quantities of cast-in started receiving BEPs [BIM execution Colin Mackenzie, components. BIM has promoted more plans], where the LOD and LOI [level of FP McCann sustainable and lean manufacturing information] have been specified for processes internally.” various project stages.” Precast firm Techrete used Trimble’s On the DIRFT scheme, Mackenzie which links with our modelling data, Tekla package on the V&A Dundee. adapted Trimble’s Tekla software to and allows our planners to assign “As there were no straight external speed up design of bespoke precast units. units to casting beds in the factory and walls, the challenge of designing, “There were, for example, 77 T-wall then link up with deliveries to site,” manufacturing and installing the 2,400 sections required, of which 30 were Mackenzie explains. precast concrete panels, which brought bespoke,” he explains. “Each one Meanwhile, Creagh is also seeing the geometrically complex design to would have taken two hours to model advantages from implementing BIM life, was recognised at the beginning individually. Instead, using the custom across its business. Connor McMahon of the project,” explains Makda. components editor in Tekla, I defined was project manager on the company’s “Therefore, BIM was used throughout possible parameters for the bespoke Sheffield HSBC project, where Creagh the project, with every precast plank elements. Then, when the designers was brought in by main contractor BAM modelled by Techrete. This allowed the began work, they could define the Creagh modelled with just 16 weeks’ notice to deliver design team to search the model, zoom unique requirements of each unit, such three concrete cores three concrete cores. in and spin the plank around to ensure as different dimensions, fixing positions. in Revit to meet a Each one was 34.5m tall and comprised it fitted the design.” 16-week delivery “Working this way, we designed date on its HSBC 17 precast sections, consisting of flat While the V&A Dundee has been each unit in just two minutes. The total Sheffield project walls, “C-shape” units, boxes, stairs, a showcase for BIM, Makda feels modelling took less than a week.” landings and capping slabs. The largest there is still “work to do to enable Mackenzie says FP McCann’s greatest sections were 8m by 4.6m across and external stakeholders to collaborate gain from BIM adoption has been 2m high, weighing around 27 tonnes. more effectively through digital the parallel development of internal Creagh modelled the cores in Revit to construction”. There is a culture of production processes. LOD 5 then worked collaboratively on the retaining information they consider “Using the embedded data in our design with other project team members. sensitive, he says, but BIM is about Tekla software, we have been able to “The model became an interactive “openness and transparency”. transfer information to lasers allowing tool, so we could visualise the product Mackenzie believes there needs to be quicker and easier mould set-up,” he on the project virtually, before the more drive from clients for BIM to be fully says. “Additional investment in data prefabricated component is cast in the implemented. “We currently find that driven mesh/rebar machines, adopting factory and arrives on site,” McMahon while there is intent, it is not necessarily simpler reinforcement configurations, says. “Creagh uploaded data drops to followed through with full adoption,” will accelerate rebar cage fabrication. the common data environment [CDE] he explains. “We have worked on three On box culverts, we’ve reduced cage used on the project, so this provided projects where the client wanted BIM fabrication time by 50-60%.” Bam with evidence of how the precast Level 2 protocols, but the schemes did The next step in FP McCann’s BIM cores had been developed.” not end up being managed that way.” transformation is coordination with He says a rise in productivity has Some questions also remain over logistics. “Software firm StruSoft has increased Creagh’s trust in BIM: “We product data formats. British Precast supplied us with their Impact system, can work quicker, with more accuracy says it is continuing to work with
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26_28.CM Marb19.concreteopener_sc.indd 27 19/02/2019 14:27 CONCRETE MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Slow BIM take-up for In association with: RC frame construction
Research by CM and software specialist Trimble indicates reinforced concrete frame contractors are lagging behind other structural specialists on BIM uptake. Duncan Reed explains
A survey by CM and Trimble and safety planning are all areas capable of working with BIM, and Solutions of around 100 where models are rarely used. precast is not far behind with 67%. construction professionals Safety planning can be improved This isn’t really a surprise, as has thrown up an interesting by using the model to determine steel fabricators and detailers disconnect between the sequencing of the works, have worked with Tekla Structures understanding of the benefits of temporary works requirements, for decades, as have a high using BIM on a reinforced concrete access, egress and giving site proportion of precast concrete (RC) frame project – and whether workers access to up-to-date fabricators. Both disciplines have those benefits are realised. and relevant safety information. used 3D models for design and The potential benefits are well Risks associated with are also pushing constructible recognised, with over 50% of procurement and supply chain data through to manufacture, site respondents recognising that the management can be mitigated by scheduling and logistics. technology aids: structural design; the accurate quantities contained By comparison RC frame DIRFT was FP McCann’s first Level 2 project connections and interfaces in a model and the ability to allocate subcontractors are only considered with other components and every part of the project to a works to have a degree of capability by work packages; reinforcement package. As the work progresses 57% of respondents, despite the detailing; programming; and on site, the model can also be used functionality in Tekla Structures temporary works design. for a quality check as well. being available to them. The results “Designers will be able to call But BIM is only used in well- The results show that while show there is some way to improve up EPD data from all products established processes such other structural framing solutions from 7% to the “very capable” 26% on a project using the BIM as clash detection, structural are seen to be a mature BIM score of steel subcontractors. analysis and design. However, option, there is a perception This is perfectly achievable now model and obtain up-to-date many aspects of the construction that in situ concrete frames are with the software available. environment assessments” process that could benefit from not as developed. Some 79% Duncan Reed is digital Matthew Butcher, data held in a digital format: supply of respondents consider steel construction process manager British Precast chain management, procurement subcontractors to be at least at Trimble Solutions
What BIM is used for most commonly Potential benefits of BIM the Construction Products Association on its Lexicon concept, the plan for a on RC frame projects on RC frame projects single data standard across all industry 80% Clash detection product categories. Precast objects in the NBS National Design
BIM Library are mostly limited to Structural 60% analysis infrastructure products. FP McCann, for Construction instance, has uploaded pipes, rings and programming manhole covers. However, Mackenzie 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 40% says there is “limited demand” to extend n Very rarely n Rarely n Occasionally the provision of standard components n Commonly n Very commonly across other product groups. Meanwhile, British Precast has created BIM capability of structural frame suppliers 20%
Environmental Product Declarations Steel (EPDs), with life cycle assessment data, for several product groups, which will Precast 0%
allow greater sustainability scrutiny Timber n Aiding structural design through BIM. “Designers will be able to n Connections/interfaces with RC frame other components/packages call up EPD data from all products on a n Reinforcement detailing project using the BIM model, and obtain 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% n Programming up-to-date environment assessments n Temporary works design n Uncapable n Not very capable n Capable n Cost management on those materials to inform the n Somewhat capable n Very capable n Introducing precast elements specification,” explains Butcher.●
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26_28.CM Marb19.concreteopener_sc.indd 28 19/02/2019 14:27 Intelligent 3D modelling software designed to help you deliver all types of concrete and rebar elements at the right time to the right place. Integrating design and detailing with manufacture, project management and efficient information sharing Tekla Structures can do it all.
Together we are shaping a smarter future for construction. www.tekla.com/uk/solutions
TRANSFORMING THE WAY THE WORLD WORKS CONCRETE MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Working for Multiplex, Thorp Precast supplied around 1,100 precast panels to the Cartwright Gardens student accommodation project in Bloomsbury, London. The units included three- storey “T-sections”, each weighing 12 tonnes
“Complicated designs, including perforation, soffits, corbelling or other patterning in the brickwork, are much easier” Chris Bell, Sterling Services
Brick buildings are back in fashion – but not all of them are built using traditional brickwork construction. Increasingly, many use precast cladding panels – with the bricks fitted to the panel in the factory, which is then transported to site and installed on the building. “Once complete, you would be hard-pressed to tell the buildings were not built with traditional brick construction,” says Elaine Toogood, senior architect at The Concrete Centre. Aside from the aesthetics, brick- faced precast cladding offers the usual advantages associated with offsite manufacturing, including high product quality, speed of installation and reduction in site labour. Clients, architects and main contrac- tors are now recognising these benefits, says Thorp Precast technical manager Steve Morgan. “Most jobs start as traditional, hand-set brickwork projects,” he THE RISE OF BRICK-FACED explains. “In Thorp’s early days, we would sell the brick-faced concept PRECAST CLADDING on buildings above four storeys to the main contractor, who would then BRICK-FACED PRECAST CONCRETE CLADDING convince the client. That’s still the case GIVES A BUILDING THE APPEARANCE OF BEING on many jobs today. TRADITIONALLY BUILT – BUT THE USE OF FACTORY “There is some resistance from clients METHODS OFFERS ADVANTAGES IN TERMS OF and architects to consider brick-faced DESIGN, QUALITY AND SPEED. WILL MANN EXPLAINS cladding, because of precast concrete’s brutalist reputation. But architects are
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30_32.CM Mar19.brick cladding_sc.indd 30 19/02/2019 14:38 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 CONCRETE
Eight key benefits of using brick-faced cladding
Sterling Services supplied 215 brick-faced precast cladding units (left, in mould) – each weighing up to 10.4 tonnes – for this 11,500 sq m Brick-faced cladding offers many advantages civic centre in south London, part of Morgan on a construction project. Steve Morgan, Sindall’s Lambeth Town Hall (below left) technical manager at Thorp Precast, explains
brickwork is incredibly intricate, and it Warranty. Brick-faced brickwork. Without delays cladding panels are fully caused by shortage of wouldn’t have been possible to achieve warranted, with a design bricklayers or weather, the programme if built in situ,” he says. life guarantee of 50 years time and cost certainty “Architects can push the boundaries,” minimum and scope to are guaranteed. believes Toogood. “The aesthetic of brick increase this to 100 years. construction has developed out of the Design, manufacture and Fewer site trades. installation follows the long- No external scaffolding is way it has to be built. For example, you established BSI standards required, unlike for traditional need a lintel because you have to span BS 7543 (Durability of brickwork. Door units, a window. But you don’t need that with buildings and building windows and insulation can a panel. So an architect could decide to elements, products and be installed in the factory. components), BS EN 1990 For main contractors, far recreate the traditional appearance, or (Basis of structural design), less supervision and do something completely different. BS 8500 (Guidance for management time is required. “It may also be possible to use a more concrete specification) expensive brick than the budget for a and BS8297 (Design Reduced waste. With traditional brickwork project might have and installation of brick-faced cladding, non-loadbearing precast there is no onsite storage allowed for, because less brick material concrete cladding). required as panels are is being used,” she adds. lifted off specially adapted Architects also see the quality Fire safety. Materials and delivery vehicles directly control benefits of manufacturing, designs used meet the onto the building. There is requirements of the Building no packaging to dispose of Morgan says. “They sign off the brick- Regulations, NHBC and and little site waste, meaning faced panels in the factory,” he explains. other insurance providers. no need for skips and “If they are inspecting brickwork on Non-combustible insulation associated hire costs. site, and spot any issues such as colour materials applied to the beginning to appreciate the advantages variations, that is much harder to internal face of the panels Health and safety. The in buildings over 18m also working at height risks and the design possibilities.” rectify than in the factory.” achieves full compliance. of traditional brickwork These include sophisticated Thorp can work with “almost any If necessary, firestops can are eliminated. Panels are patterns or details that would be hard kind of brick material”, Morgan says. be accessed following lifted into position by crane to achieve on a tight programme with “There is a perception that irregular panel installation. and finishing is carried out using MEWP or cradle traditional brickwork. or hand-made bricks can’t be used with Reduced loading. The dead access. Once the cladding is “Complicated designs, including precast panels because of issues placing loads of brick-faced panels installed, the internal trades perforation, soffits, corbelling or other them within the grids. That’s not our can be up to 60% less than are protected from the patterning in the brickwork are much experience. We have used all sorts of for traditional methods of weather. Noise levels easier,” says Chris Bell, managing bricks and installed them in numerous construction. This offers are minimised, a benefit potential for using brick both for site workers and director of another precast specialist, types of patterns and recesses.” facades more widely on neighbours. Sterling Services. Typically, Thorp will use a 50mm-thick high-rise buildings. There “Architects realise that it gives them brick slip, with positive key, for its brick- is also no requirement for Quality. The finishing of more scope to play around with the faced cladding. “It is possible to go as secondary steelwork, for brick-faced cladding is of example to support glazing, high quality as the panels are design. We’re currently working on thin as 17mm, with rib backs, which as precast panels are manufactured in a controlled a herringbone pattern on one project gives a positive key,” explains Morgan. designed to accept these factory environment. Mortar which would be nigh on impossible to “Sometimes we will go as thick as 65mm, loads, as well as wind loads. joints can be pointed in the do with bricklayers on site because of for a three-hole perforated brick, where mould, while panel to the level of detail required.” we have to cut the brick in half just Time and cost certainty. panel joints can be kept Construction programmes to a minimum of 10mm, Morgan points to Thorp’s Victoria Gate beyond the perforation, so we can get can be up to 50% less when creating the appearance Arcade project in Leeds, where the firm the positive key. But that is not ideal as using brick-faced cladding of traditional brickwork on supplied 525 brick-faced panels to main it leads to more waste and makes the instead of traditional the finished building. contractor Sir Robert McAlpine. “This panels heavier.”
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30_32.CM Mar19.brick cladding_sc.indd 31 19/02/2019 14:39 CONCRETE MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Q&A: Technical considerations when using brick-faced cladding
Elaine Toogood, The Concrete Centre’s senior architect, on the design considerations and technical requirements of brick-faced cladding
defines dimensions and incorporates Are design principles the Significant efficiencies can same as for conventional be made by using bricks with punch windows. We will incorporate precast cladding? four usable faces. the glazing in the panel at the factory Brick-faced cladding uses prior to delivery and installation.” similar design principles to How are bricks placed into Joints between bricks on panels are other forms of architectural the mould? pointed in the factory using conventional precast, but panel sizes should Bricks are placed facing-side align with brick dimensions. down in the concrete mould, mortar, so are indistinguishable from Offcuts should be avoided. in the required bonding or traditional brickwork, but joints Detailing of reinforcement, pattern. Proprietary templates between panels are harder to disguise. thickness and specification of are used to hold the bricks “The BS 8297 standard says joints concrete will be determined in position, spaced apart by by structural requirements and 10mm for the mortar joints. between panels should be a maximum performance specification. Non-standard patterns or sizes of 20mm, but we have worked hard to Panels are typically around will require proprietary spacing reduce that to 10mm on our projects,” says 200mm thick, incorporating templates. Three-dimensional Morgan. “For mastic seals on soft joints, facing brick which is usually elements may need additional there have been advances in the colour around 50mm thick. means of supporting the bricks until the concrete has cured. ranges, and sometimes we will ‘dust’ Can brick facing be used for The reinforcement and the joints, so they are harder to detect. other precast components any lifting eyes and fixing Architects are taking this on board.” like balconies? supports – typically located on On site, the installation benefits come Brick facing can be used hiding facings – are then put for bespoke applications, into position and the concrete into their own. “Logistics is a big factor, including arches, columns, placed into the mould. particularly on city centre sites, such as balconies, soffits as well as Once it has reached our Lambeth Town Hall scheme which conventional wall panels. its required strength, the was in the middle of Brixton,” says Bell. formwork is struck and the Thorp Precast supplied 525 brick-faced “But we don’t need scaffolding, and there Can windows be fitted into panels turned over. The panels to main contractor Sir Robert the panels? brickwork is cleaned and, McAlpine for the Victoria Gate Arcade isn’t the need for onsite storage of the As with all precast cladding, where required, mortar joints project in Leeds. Technical manager bricks, the silo, a forklift for moving bricks insulation, doors, windows pointed. Brick slips offer the Steve Morgan says the “intricate” around. There is not the worry about and other facade features can time-efficient option of pre- brickwork patterns would have made the bricklayer availability or weather delays.” be factory-fitted if required. filling the mortar joints before programme impossible if built in situ the concrete is poured. Morgan jokes that the main Are there any restrictions contractor will never admit what the on the types of brick used? Are there any special benefits are in pure cost terms. Virtually any brick material can requirements for joints? “On paper, it looks like it should be used, but not all types are Joint widths between panels cost twice as much as traditional,” he appropriate or can bond into are typically larger than the concrete. A positive key at the 10mm mortar joints and are says. “But when you factor in all the back of the brick anchors it to determined by the tolerances Sterling Services recently invested advantages – certainty of delivery, the concrete. For brick slips, necessary for manufacture, in a Ferrari automatic brick-cutting quality of product, reduced site labour, this profile of well-formed natural shrinkage, thermal machine. “Depending on the architect’s a warranty – the cost gap narrows. grooves is created when expansion and installation. manufactured. For cut bricks They should not exceed 20mm. specification, we can now cut any bricks Certainly, many main contractors think the original perforations can The joints are filled with into slips or pistols,” Bell says. He adds that it’s worth paying the premium.” provide the anchor once cut, sealant after installation, that the important issue for Sterling is Morgan sees brick-faced cladding otherwise a dovetailed slot specified to ensure the ensuring the bricks are positioned in the becoming more widespread as architects can be cut into the back. appropriate thermal expansion moulds correctly and pointed properly. and clients appreciate its long-term At window reveals, corners, and avoid colour-staining. A corbelling and other three- “dusted seal”, where the joint Moulds are no different than for other durability. “Concrete facing will eventually dimensional details, bricks will is rubbed with mortar dust architectural precast cladding. “We can stain due to the effects of weather and require multiple finished faces, when newly applied, provides incorporate any bond pattern or recess pollution,” he says. “Brick, on the other and specials may be required. better visual consistency. details,” says Morgan. “The shuttering hand, ages well. It is far more enduring.” ●
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30_32.CM Mar19.brick cladding_sc.indd 32 19/02/2019 14:39 33.ad.CMMar19.layher.indd 12 18/02/2019 18:06 CONCRETE MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
The Concrete House in East Sussex used fibre-reinforced self- compacting concrete
It’s one of the oldest construction Contractors used 500 tonnes of steel THINNER AND products in the known world, so surely fibre to reinforce the slip formed main the boundaries for concrete have been inner lining of the Lee Tunnel in east STRONGER: pushed as far as they can? London as part of Thames Water’s When the Romans invented concrete, sewer upgrade scheme which will CONCRETE’S they could not have dreamt just how help reduce the number of stormflow ubiquitous this material would become, discharges in the River Thames. STRUCTURAL how it would shape the development And Cemex researchers in of the built environment across the Switzerland, based at the company’s VERSATILITY world and help improve the lives of its global R&D centre, have helped deliver citizens – but they must have had some an innovative, efficient home in the UK THE RANGE OF STRUCTURAL idea that they were on to a good thing. using its Resilia HP fibre-reinforced self- APPLICATIONS FOR CONCRETE At a time when Britons were building compacting concrete for the structural IS GROWING SIGNIFICANTLY, AS huts using wattle and daub, Emperor walls and horizontal elements. R&D GATHERS PACE. CEMEX Hadrian – he of wall fame – had The Concrete House in East Sussex NATIONAL TECHNICAL MANAGER commissioned and built the Pantheon was featured on Channel 4’s Grand RICHARD KERSHAW EXPLAINS in Rome, complete with 42m diameter Designs and the use of Resilia HP concrete dome. It still stands today. enabled the design team to reduce the Since then concrete has become the amount of steel reinforcement to less go-to construction material. There are no than 60% of the original total. Steel fibre was used to reinforce the main inner lining of the Lee Tunnel in east London, as part of Thames Water’s sewer upgrade parts of the world that remain untouched There is a perception that fibre- by it. Today it’s the most consumed reinforced concrete is costlier than man-made material in the world. steel-reinforced concrete, but that isn’t But its ubiquity has not stopped its always the case. Developers perhaps continuing development. Across the don’t factor in the overall construction world scientists, chemists, engineers, cost savings. Advances in fibre dosage mix-designers and concrete specialists designs have led to higher tensile and keep pushing the material’s boundaries. flexural strengths, which can be helpful Research and development (R&D) has when value-engineering a scheme. always been an integral part of the Those efficiencies will continue to concrete sector – and its structural grow, as researchers and academics possibilities have grown significantly. across the globe are looking at ways to This is partly down to growing use improve the material’s elasticity and of fibre-reinforced concrete. Increased ductility. Innovations in development understanding of the efficiency benefits include self-healing concrete, super- it offers project managers has seen its thin concrete – even floating concrete. popularity increase. Modern methods of construction will The use of steel fibres to reinforce demand thinner, stronger concrete that concrete can reduce or eliminate the can provide significant cost savings. requirement for heavy, cumbersome Over the last 30 years we have seen steel reinforcement bars – improving the average strength of concrete durability and reducing permeability we supply soar. In the 1990s, a 40N and plastic cracking, while offering a concrete was considered specialist. reduction in labour and material costs. It Now it is not uncommon – particularly has been proven in both civil engineering on central London sites – for us to
CHRIS NORTH and building applications recently. supply 100N mixes. ●
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34.CM Mar19.concrete future_sc.indd 34 19/02/2019 13:06 58_PERI_AD_PRINT_CM_255x208_21-JAN_19_AW.indd 1 17/01/2019 16:10 CONCRETE MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
3D printing helps Ely bridge project Formwork specialist RMD Kwikform helped the complicated construction of the Ely bypass bridge (below) in Cambridgeshire by 3D-printing a visualisation of its planned solution (left). The V-shaped bridge piers have a complex geometry, with heavy loads running through to the foundations, which was difficult to model accurately in 2D. RMD Kwikform’s 3D-printed model helped main contractor VolkerFitzpatrick and formwork contractor Sword visualise the project, rectify potential issues in advance, and understand the engineering tolerances.
IN PICTURES | FIVE OF THE LATEST CONCRETE INNOVATIONS CM TAKES A LOOK AT NEW AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS IN CONCRETE, FROM DIGITAL DESIGN INNOVATION TO LOW-CARBON CEMENT PRODUCTION
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36_37.CM.Mar19.concreteprojects_sc.indd 36 19/02/2019 14:58 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 CONCRETE
Keltbray installs ‘first ever’ cement-free pile Keltbray Piling has installed what it claims is the first ever permanent works pile using a zero cement concrete, Cemfree. Working for Taylor Wimpey at Mount Pleasant, London, Keltbray is installing a secant wall and bearing piles for main contractor Bouygues. The Cemfree material, manufactured in the UK by DB Group, is a low-carbon alternative to traditional cement, which Keltbray says has the structural characteristics of traditional concrete, is more resistant to chloride ingress and requires fewer construction joints and less crack-control steel.
Cambridge researchers developing self-healing concrete Cambridge is the latest university to research the potential of “self-healing” concrete, using microencapsulation technologies developed by Dolomite Microfluidics. Old clothes and carpets fuel cement plants Microcapsules containing Cement manufacturing is energy-intensive, and Cemex “healing” agents has been pushing the use of alternative fuels, which now – such as epoxy or account for 58% of its UK production. Climafuel (below) polyurethane – are uses household waste, including shredded paper, carpet, added to the material textiles and plastics. Cemex is also replacing cement through to allow self-repair use of fly ash and GGBS in mixes, while byproducts of the of small cracks production process – cement kiln dust and bypass dust – are which develop being developed for use as replacements for cement in soil due to fatigue. stabilisation applications. Cemex is also using 100% Cambridge’s renewable electricity at all its supplied sites. researchers plan to add the Hanson’s record pour on tallest City tower microcapsules to Hanson says it recently delivered the highest ever lightweight the concrete prior concrete pour in London, on 22 Bishopsgate, the 278m tower to use, which are which will be the tallest building in the City on completion ruptured as cracks next year. The materials firm is supplying 52,000 cu m of appear, releasing structural concrete on the 62-floor steel-framed tower, their payload which has a central jump-form concrete core and perimeter and stabilising columns. Hanson, which recently reached level 54, says its the material. pour beats the previous record of 50 floors set by RMC at One Canada Square, Canary Wharf, in 1984. Main contractor is Multiplex while Careys is concrete contractor.
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36_37.CM.Mar19.concreteprojects_sc.indd 37 19/02/2019 14:58 BIM & DIGITAL MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
38-43 BIM & Digital WHAT ROLE DO MANUFACTURERS PLAY IN CONSTRUCTION’S DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION? FOR THE FOURTH IN OUR SERIES OF DIGITAL DEBATES, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CENTRE FOR DIGITAL BUILT BRITAIN, WE EXAMINE THE ROLE MANUFACTURERS HAVE TO PLAY IN DELIVERING BIM LEVEL 2. WILL MANN AND NEIL GERRARD LISTENED IN
Clockwise from top left: Paul Surin (Wienerberger); John Bedford (Ark Consultancy); Terry Stocks (CDBB); Jaimie Johnston (Bryden Wood); Tim Thomas (BASF); Jeff House (Baxi) PHOTOGRAPHY: JULIE KIM PHOTOGRAPHY:
If manufacturers didn’t know it do you keep sensitive information before, they are now realising the secure? How can their data contribute importance of data to their digital to the “golden thread”? These strategies. The product data they were some of the questions that produce could be “the bedrock of the arose during the discussion among digital twin” and has the potential to manufacturers who gathered for the shift their position of influence in the fourth in our series of digital debates, construction supply chain. organised by Construction Manager, How do they drive the changes the Centre for Digital Built Britain required? What is the best way to (CDBB) and the Chartered Institute make product data accessible? How of Building (CIOB).
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38_41.CM.Mar19.Roundtable_sc.indd 38 18/02/2019 16:05 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 BIM & DIGITAL
What part do manufacturers play in delivering BIM Level 2 as business as usual and is this properly understood by the construction industry?
Terry Stocks, leader of the CDBB BIM John Bedford Jeff House Jaimie Level 2 workstream – who chaired the Ark Baxi Heating Johnston Consultancy We have to be Bryden Wood discussion alongside Fiona Moore, At the moment, central to the P-DfMA is a BIM Level 2 programme manager at the client doesn’t under- digital conversation. massive opportunity for CDBB, and David Philp, BIM Level 2 stand the value of digital It doesn’t seem to me as manufacturers to get communications manager – kicked off delivery, so manufacturers though we are going to closer to clients. It should by asking how mature manufacturers need to convince them. end up with a very specific be making the tier 1s feel The construction industry steer from government, very nervous. With BIM are in terms of digital object and asset “The big is completely disengaged so we have to agree the Level 2, we are starting data creation. message in from that process, data formatting between to get to a new baseline. It quickly emerged that the sector the UK BIM particularly in housing. ourselves. It is time to start defining what the next level of the suffered a false start, with some Alliance Paul Surin Alex Small journey looks like. companies quick off the mark to Product Data Wienerberger Tata Steel invest in file-based objects, pushed Working For manu- Manufacturers Joe Darlington facturers, a in part by tier 1 contractors. A trust Group report need to provide Manufacturing digital transformation structural, interoperable, Technology issue had also emerged around these published last means more reliable, linked, trusted data. In Centre objects, as designers downloading the year is that responsive and accessible terms of what we can do The common themes information found it was not always manufacturers information to support for driving a digital built in this discussion were being maintained and its integrity have got to get business decisions. Britain and digital twins, about leveraging data Manufacturers need to be that is about ensuring through the life of a was lost once downloaded. Most to grips with able to govern their own that the right stakeholder project. Manufacturers manufacturers now recognised that our data” data to avoid duplicates, has access to the right need to look for the value organising themselves internally and Alex Small, inconsistency and the information in the right in the data, so it is about focusing on data was key. Tata Steel need to maintain multiple format at the right time. constantly looking at it systems with multiple through different lenses. Alex Small, BIM and digital platforms Geoff Ball naming conventions Wilo Matt Price manager at Tata Steel, explained: “A and languages. few years ago, manufacturers were Our purpose as Ibstock Brick Matt Crunden manufacturers Manufacturers feeling the pressure to go out and Legrand is to supply not only the play a massive generate objects. People did that We are the physical product but also part in BIM Level 2. ahead of prioritising data, the main foundation the data that goes along They are the source of reason being there was no recognised stone because nobody with it. The question information. But they are knows our products is which stakeholder getting bullied by different standard to tell them how to do and services better do we give it to and at groups into trying to get it. The big message in the UK BIM than we do. We have what level. We need a the data rather being Alliance Product Data Working Group the capabilities if we level of engagement engaged to get it. That is report published last year was that collaborate. What we from end users and what needs to change. really need is parity with building operators if manufacturers have got to get to grips Tim Thomas the client, consultant, we want to fully digitise BASF with our data.” and architect, because the manufacturing and The use of a A lack of collaboration and traditionally the operating process. CDE, digitisation manufacturer has always consistency, with manufacturers often John Parsons and virtual twins allow been bottom of the pile. going off and doing their own thing, BEAMA us to unlock sustainable has also created issues, according to Jitin Mitra There is a benefits in construction. Jitin Mitra, partnerships director at Ilke Homes journey for Understanding of BIM Manufacturers the entire industry Level 2 differs hugely Ilke Homes. “Everyone is creating their need to provide towards digitalisation. across all stakeholders own system. There is no continuity the detail in a format Manufacturers are probably in the industry. We or collaboration which means which we can share with the first movers in all of this have an opportunity to it gets very difficult when you get the end user. It is up to us because it is the data they educate contractors into things like warranties, insurance to sell the value of that are going to provide that and installers in how data to the client. is going to start feeding to manage these mass and mortgages,” he said. through the industry. data environments.
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38_41.CM.Mar19.Roundtable_sc.indd 39 18/02/2019 15:59 BIM & DIGITAL MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Meanwhile, some reported that If manufacturers fear they are Manufacturers buy-in from the group board and BIM understanding remained low being left behind, then they will act, discussed the from his boss, a former executive at importance of further down the supply chain. Geoff argued Tim Thomas, global consultant, data within digital IBM, he added. Ball, technical specification manager sustainable construction at BASF. strategies “Our BIM business case was not at Wilo Group, observed: “We get a “There is this fear of missing out. You even looking at the clients at first lot of mechanical and electrical may be losing sales because everyone place,” Surin explained. “We wanted contractors asking for objects when is talking in a digital language and you to get our business to use data as an in reality they just want a 3D Revit are five years out of date,” he said. asset and to improve the business drawing. It is the understanding But there is change in the air. Some internally first. We have structured within that level of the industry that manufacturers have decided to pursue our data and have introduced data is not quite on the same page.” the digital transformation agenda for and information management. We As manufacturers traditionally sit the internal benefits it can bring – and reduced our attributes by about at the bottom of the supply chain, they a growing realisation of the power of have tended to react to their customers’ data to put them closer to clients. Key needs or regulations when it comes to Paul Surin, head of digital built 1. 2. takeaways Focusing on generating data for components. Steven environment at Wienerberger, said Driving a digital from the strategy in structuring data, Heath, technical and strategy director, the international supplier of building debate manufacturers and generating Knauf Insulation, said: “If the customer materials and infrastructure had needs to come from internal efficiencies, is asking for it and is willing to place a used Steve Thompson’s Product Data the CEO down. should be a priority. value on it then we react. If there is a Definition report for the BIM Task likelihood of a regulatory push then Group to create internal targets for you obviously respond – and I think we delivering digital data for their can see this with the Hackitt report.” products. This was helped by strong
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38_41.CM.Mar19.Roundtable_sc.indd 40 18/02/2019 15:59 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 BIM & DIGITAL
“We wanted to get our business to use data as an asset and to improve the business internally first” Paul Surin, Wienerberger
30% by avoiding duplicates. So, any product manager in any EU country The case for Platform-DfMA who sets up a new product does not have to worry about CPR regulatory Last November, the need more rigour and Infrastructure Projects standardisation enabled by requirements; they have to fill in only Authority (IPA) launched a call digital and manufacturing about 20% of the attributes as the rest for evidence on using more technologies,” he said. is standardised. standardised components Johnston, who is a keen “We are still experiencing tier 1s on construction projects – P-DfMA advocate, thought otherwise known as platform the concept could allow asking manufacturers for objects, some design for manufacture and manufacturers to create even forcing it, and that is confusing assembly (P-DfMA). digital marketplaces, the industry. BIM Level 2 requirements Alex Lubbock, head of drawing them closer to don’t really matter to manufacturers digital construction at the the end user. “If you [as a the way they matter to tier 1s. BIM Level IPA, believes manufacturers manufacturer] knew you should be excited about the were going to be selling 2 for manufacturers equals structured, potential of P-DfMA. millions of components, you governed and interoperable data. “We announced in 2017 would find a really good way Manufacturers need to get their data a move to a presumption of making them,” he said. out in a format which is readable by in favour of offsite “You can then imagine a manufacturing,” he said. digital marketplace with the all project stakeholders who will then “What we are trying to do government saying, ‘across start to realise how the data can work now is two things: open all my departments I am and help them.” up what we procure to buying X number of these’. Wienerberger has begun to see the new markets in terms “That would massively benefit of its digital transformation of manufacturing and compress the digital distance technology and bring the between the client and the strategy. It collaborated through a productivity gains that manufacturer,” he added. consortium (Home4Life) with other those sectors have achieved Lubbock added: “It’s manufacturers and suppliers on over the last 30 years into worth pointing out that housing projects in Surrey. construction,” he explained. digital objects connect He highlighted how the client, consultant and “The consortium has worked with P-DfMA could help in the tier 1 contractor with the the client through a collaborative ambitions set out in the manufacturer, so they will and lean approach, adopted the suite Hackitt review to have be a core part of the P-DfMA of recommended BIM Level 2 BSI a “golden thread” of approach, as a container for standards and guidelines, including information running through that interaction. A component projects. “The quality platform is still predicated a common data environment (CDE) of what we are getting on a digital object. Geometry and linking structured data in order delivered is sometimes and data are separate but to close the performance gap,” not good enough and we meet at that transaction.” explained Surin. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Manufacturers can The use of A “servitisation” Construction Manufacturers Manufacturers’ As data use grows, use data to gain Platform DfMA – model could product data can have a key role to data can help drive the security of that greater influence standardisation of emerge, where be a foundation play in the delivery the carbon agenda, data will become at the top of the factory components manufacturers stone of a digital of Hackitt’s as environmental an increasing supply chain and – is a big opportunity offer an added- built Britain and a “golden thread” product declarations consideration. develop closer for manufacturers value service key element of the of information. and lifecycle relationships with as the government to customers digital twin. assessments start clients and users. looks to make alongside their to be included construction more traditional products. in product data efficient. information sheets.
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38_41.CM.Mar19.Roundtable_sc.indd 41 18/02/2019 15:59 BIM & DIGITAL MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
John Bedford of Ark Consultancy (left) and Alex Lubbock of the Infrastructure Projects Authority (IPA)
Approaches to managing data
All manufacturers present agreed on the need for improved data management of their products, but how should they decide on the best approach? Philp noted that unstructured data – “data lakes” – may not be useful currently but could be mined in the future. “For example, if I want to look at operational performance evaluation of boilers, I want to do like-for-like comparisons on all available data of all products,” he explained. Small agreed: “One man’s trash is another man’s gold. We might not think it relevant for anyone else to know what the postcode of your asphalt supplier is but take that and the postcode of the site and you have got your delivery mileage.” Moore warned about data He revealed this led to a 2-3% cost pumps and heat recovery ventilation security. “There will be nuggets of data in there that the client hadn’t saving during the Stage 0-4 of RIBA are more expensive than what anticipated. We need to consider Plan of Work. housebuilders are used to installing,” the security-minded approach taken Joe Darlington, chief engineer he said. for projects in the military world for for digital manufacturing at the “But with proper asset data around example,” she cautioned. Johnston stressed the “mental Manufacturing Technology Centre, those, and in-situ tracking, there rigour” necessary when approaching saw parallels between the way could be a shift towards leasing rather structuring of data. “There is manufacturers are grappling with than outright capital purchases of the certainly a pruning process you managing their data and what is equipment.” need to do first,” he said. “You might already happening in aeronautical In general, the panel saw benefits have 850 attributes which loads of people don’t need. You need to and automotive. “Could construction of manufacturers working more identify the key ones.” learn from these industries?” he said. closely together on standardisation He added that data understanding Philp thought that improved of product data, with Legrand BIM should come with an organised data management could see manager Matt Crunden describing route through the BIM adoption process. “The first iteration was “manufacturers move towards a this as potentially the “foundation people putting all the data into the ‘servitisation’ business model”, where stone” of a digital built Britain. model. Next was separating out an added-value service component The potential in Platform-DfMA geometry and data, then using COBie is delivered to customers alongside (see box) and the possible emergence and that was a subset of IFC. So if their traditional products. of a digital marketplace was also you have gone through those steps then there is always a logical next Baxi Heating’s head of external recognised. step,” he said. affairs Jeff House thought that the Small added: “Once a manufacturer’s “But you can’t be lazy and jump carbon agenda has the potential data is structured, other opportunities to the end,” added Moore. to drive this. “For example, heat open up.” ●
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38_41.CM.Mar19.Roundtable_sc.indd 42 18/02/2019 16:00 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 BIM & DIGITAL
John Ford Galliford Try
That is fine, but you don’t need to rename ISO 19650: Need-to-knows or amend everything you have produced, including the likely dozens of procedures about the new BIM standard you have already compiled for PAS 1192 compliance. Simply insert statements where A NEW INTERNATIONAL BIM STANDARD HAS BEEN necessary indicating that these procedures PUBLISHED, ISO 19650. GALLIFORD TRY’S JOHN FORD align to the relevant definitions in BS EN ISO EXPLAINS HOW TO INTERPRET AND APPLY THE STANDARD 19650. This can work for both short-term and long term-adoption. The key message here is to ensure that the process is compliant. My recommended next step is to highlight all the aspects of the ISO 19650 that apply to you. This may be most of it, if you’re an asset owner, project manager or main contractor – as you may be both an appointing party (employer) and an appointed party. You may have a lot of roles, tasks and functions to perform. If your role is relatively simple in the chain, like a manufacturer or supplier, you may only be an appointed party and have far less to consider. Finally, ensure your organisation has processes in place for what the ISO is asking you to do. If 19650 tells you to jump, your The long-awaited first two parts of a new organisational standards, especially if they are international BIM standard ISO 19650 have champions of ISO 9001, should tell you how high. been published. The move marks the transition You must be compliant with your organisa- from the PAS 1192 series of standards to tion’s protocols first. If none are present, then international standards. you must work with them to develop some, as an The first and most important thing you need “You don’t need to rename or amend organisation can’t obtain maximum value from to know about BS EN ISO 19650-1 and 2 is that everything you have produced, reinventing the wheel on every new project the processes are practically identical to those including the likely dozens of based on individual interpretations. ● defined in the BS 1192:2007 and PAS 1192-2:2013 procedures you have already John Ford is BIM & digital information suite of documents. The reason this is important compiled for PAS 1192 compliance” technical development lead at Galliford Try. is that if the process is the same and you already have good compliance with the 1192 suite, then believe it or not, you are good to go already. that satisfies EIR expectations within What is ISO 19650? Those responsible for implementing infor- BS EN ISO 19650-2 (clauses 5.2.1 and 5.4). ISO 19650 is an international standard for mation standards into their organisational If you already have a single document or managing information over the whole life cycle of a built asset using BIM. It contains all the policies and processes need to recognise tool that fulfils this, but is called something same principles and high-level requirements that the visible changes in BS EN 19650, such else, that is fine as long as it satisfies the as BIM Level 2 and is closely aligned with the as terminology changes, do not impact the requirements. You should insert a phrase current UK PAS 1192 standards. process. As long as the process is compliant, saying, “Documents x, y and z define our EIR In Q1 2019, the first two international the terminology does not have to be. in compliance with BS EN ISO 19650-2”. standards of the ISO 19650 series are being published: BS EN ISO 19650-1 covers You do not need a document called Now, you may of course still want to have a concepts and principles; BS EN ISO 19650-2 “Exchange Information Requirements” (EIR) single document, listing acronyms such as EIR, covers delivery phase of the assets. to be compliant. What you need is something as it makes compiling and reviewing easier.
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Legal
Delay damages provisions are specified commissioning date, GPP Big common in UK construction contacts Field claimed liquidated damages. but the required parameters of those However, the delay damages specified “liquidated damages” clauses remain in the contracts did not refer to the output a shifting picture. The case of GPP Big of the plants and prevailing electricity Field LLP v Solar EPC Solutions, decided prices and therefore did not attempt to in November 2018, suggests that the estimate the actual loss suffered, leading practicalities of agreeing these clauses to an argument that these should be are still uncertain. considered voidable penalty clauses. It is generally acknowledged that In deciding that the delay damages there will be some loss suffered by clauses were acceptable, the court a client if a construction project is referred to the recent cases of Makdessi not completed by a certain date. The and Parking Eye. These limit the actual loss will differ depending on the Assad Maqbool circumstances where courts will consider circumstances. Clients often consider Trowers & Hamlins a liquidated damages provision to be an costs of supervising a prolonged project, unenforceable penalty to cases where the costs of renting buildings in lieu of a liquidated damages amount is “out of all new building being complete, and more Liquidated damages: proportion to any legitimate interest of notional losses such as interest on the innocent party in the enforcement capital that has been invested for which cloudy picture of the primary obligation” – the primary no benefit has been received, or loss of obligation being execution of the works. profits that would have been received in solar case The upshot of Makdessi and Parking had a building been open to customers. Eye, as supported by GPP Big Field, is It is worth remembering that it is not ASSAD MAQBOOL EXAMINES THE that where a liquidated damages necessary for a construction contract ARGUMENTS OVER LIQUIDATED DAMAGES amount is agreed, particularly between to include express damages provisions. IN A CASE WHERE THE CONTRACTOR sophisticated commercial parties, Instead, the starting point should be MISSED THE COMMISSIONING and the amount is not “exorbitant or that the delay would be a simple breach DEADLINE FOR FIVE SOLAR PLANTS unconscionable”, the court should support of contract which would give rise to the principle in English law of the freedom a right of the client to claim general of parties to contract on terms they agree damages for breach. and therefore uphold the validity of the Often this is not considered to be liquidated damages clause. an acceptable position because the What is disappointing about the GPP necessity to prove actual losses when Big Field judgement is it suggests that, claiming general damages is more without any reference to the primary to establish whether the amount is “out onerous for the client and more likely purpose of a contract – is unenforceable of all proportion” or “unconscionable”, to be litigious than a clear obligation for in English law. But the parameters of this the court would need to consider if the the contractor to pay defined liquidated doctrine have been murky when applied amount agreed was less than a “genuine damages. Sometimes clients will define to liquidated damages in construction. pre-estimate of the losses likely to be an easily claimable amount of liquidated The case of GPP Big Field LLP v Solar suffered”. This again takes us away from damages to incentivise the contractor to EPC Solutions related to a number the certainty and freedom to agree a complete on time and therefore penalise of engineering, procurement, and liquidated damages amount as part of the contractor in the event of a delay. construction contracts for solar commercial contract negotiations in the For almost 300 years, it has been generation plants in the UK. When Solar knowledge that it will be enforceable. ● established that a clause which is a pure EPC’s subsidiary contractor Prosolia Assad Maqbool is a partner at penalty – intended only to secure money (now insolvent) failed to achieve the Trowers & Hamlins.
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44.CM Marb19.Legal_sc.indd 44 18/02/2019 12:59 l Expand your knowledge online
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46-55 47 OPEN DOORS 2019 48 WILLMOTT DIXON IN AFRICA Community 50 CIOB’S NI EXAM SUCCESSES WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR 51 DIARY DATES PROFESSIONAL BODY 54 ME AND MY PROJECT
Event Conservation conference set in world heritage site EVENT TO FOCUS ON QUALITY AND STANDARDS IN NEW SETTING
The CIOB’s conservation conference – dedicated to the conservation, adaptation and maintenance of the built environment – is now in its fifth year. This year’s event, which will explore quality and standards in the heritage sector, is being held at Church House in the grounds of Westminster Abbey – a World Heritage Site with over 1,000 years of history. Chaired by Ros Kerslake OBE, chief executive of the Heritage Lottery CMYA The CIOB’s Construction what you do day in, day out, Fund and National Heritage Memorial Manager of the Year Awards is just brilliant.” Fund (NHMF), the day comprises Are you this year’s (CMYA) opened for nominations CMYA is free to enter presentations and case study sessions back in January and this month and is open for nominations that explore heritage restoration Construction is your last chance to enter. until 15 March. To submit a CMYA is the CIOB’s annual nomination – you can nominate projects from the UK. Platinum Manager of celebration of industry talent. yourself or a colleague – visit sponsors are Coniston and Sir Robert the Year? Showcasing the finest, it www.cmya.co.uk. McAlpine. ● celebrates the achievements of The CMYA annual dinner, the person and not the project. celebrating the finalists and The 2018 winner, Neil Lock announcing the overall winner, The event costs £110+ VAT per MCIOB of Wates Construction, will be held on 18 September delegate. Details and booking at LAST CHANCE TO ENTER said: “Being recognised for in London. http://bit.ly/conservation2019
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 46 18/02/2019 15:42 CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 COMMUNITY
Community is edited by Nicky Roger [email protected]
Open Doors: Sites across the country will be open to the public between 18-23 March
Event Main contractors involved included Sites open doors Willmott Dixon, BAM Construct UK, Membership Galliford Try, Kier, Taylor Woodrow, across the UK ISG, Skanska and Balfour Beatty FCIOB now confirmed among others. EVENT ALLOWS PUBLIC TO as benchmarked at LEARN ABOUT CONSTRUCTION Delivered by Build UK, in partnership with CITB (under the master’s degree level banner of Go Construct) this regular FELLOWSHIP STATUS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS event offers a unique chance to see behind the scenes at major “live” As CIOB members will be Ros Thorpe, the CIOB’s Open Doors 2019 takes place between construction sites across England, aware, gaining Fellowship associate director of 18-23 March. It aims to allow the public Scotland and Wales. status from the CIOB demon- education and standards, to see how the buildings and structures This year’s diverse sites vary from strates a very high level of said: “The intention behind in their communities are constructed the UCLH Proton Beam Therapy achievement: Fellows are the changes was to better and find out about the diverse range of Centre Phase 4 in London to the among the most experienced highlight the leadership and knowledgeable qualities the candidates skills and professions needed on site, listed building of Dixons Sixth Form professionals in the industry. have developed and make to promote careers in construction. Academy in Leeds. ● This has now been sure the standard is keeping The most recent Open Doors event recognised by NARIC, the up with the needs of the saw over 5,200 bookings across more To see the full programme designated national agency construction industry in the for the recognition and 21st century. than 275 construction sites in England, and to book places visit comparison of international The assessments, both for Scotland and Wales. https://opendoors.construction qualifications and skills. existing members looking to NARIC has benchmarked upgrade and those looking to the Fellowship grade as gain the Fellowship directly, Membership competence: occupational, management comparable to master’s include a “reflective account degree level for those of practice”, focusing on one and commitment to professionalism. Calling all CIOB completing the process from project or initiative they’ve Demand for the Professional Review November 2018 onwards. led. This is followed by a members – want is high and the CIOB needs champions. The Fellowship route is panel discussion, which is It is looking for those who can: also now more open than essentially a peer review to help the next in previous years. Changes of the candidate’s written l Challenge constructively; generation of made in 2017 included submissions plus a question l Actively listen; the development of a new at the end of the session on members? l Offer honest advice; pathway to Fellowship – for a current industry issue. l Question in a supportive the very first time, Fellowship The requirements for is open to those who aren’t those who aren’t MCIOB are VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR manner; and l already CIOB members. a little more testing – the PROFESSIONAL REVIEW Help individuals to find their own This route doesn’t rely on written submissions must solutions. ● qualifications but requires be longer and the discussion The CIOB is looking for members an applicant to demonstrate sessions take at least an (MCIOBs) to volunteer as Professional If you are a CIOB member and effective leadership extra 30 minutes. of people, leadership Thorpe added: “We Review (PR) Champions. As many of have a good understanding of within organisations and also hope we’ve finally you will know from experience, the final the current Professional Review a contribution to the removed the perception stage to gaining membership of the process and perhaps want to improvement of the sector. that Fellowship comes as a institute, and being able to use MCIOB, develop your own communication The route to Fellowship result of ‘time served’. I’d is the Professional Review. skills, please contact the PR team for current CIOB members is like to see more candidates similar to the previous route going for Fellowship in the This is the process during which at [email protected]. The but the process was changed middle of their careers, candidates are assessed to ensure CIOB will provide support and to reflect the industry’s demonstrating their skills they have the right knowledge, skills training for those wanting to be changing needs. and the value of their roles.” and experience in three areas of PR Champions.
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 47 18/02/2019 15:35 COMMUNITY MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Kevin Dundas (far left) and Tim Carey of Willmott Dixon visited Cameroon
Charity CIOB members in African school charity initiative
WILLMOTT DIXON EMPLOYEES VISIT CAMEROON PROJECT
Two schools in “We work in collaboration with Cameroon have an amazing charity called Building been funded by Schools for Africa. They are a the venture UK-based charity founded by a retired doctor and teacher and have spent the past 10 years dedicating their lives to improving the lives of others. They also have an NGO partner in Cameroon called SHUMAS. “A group of us from Willmott Dixon, Sunesis and Lungfish travelled to Cameroon to open one of the schools we funded. Whilst there we visited Two members of the CIOB and set up by Sunesis (a joint venture several schools that were are on the employees of Willmott Dixon recently between Willmott Dixon and Lungfish, list for funding. And were also travelled to Cameroon to officially which delivers predesigned schools) privileged to meet the prime minister, open one of the schools funded by a which funds a new school project in minister for education, minister charitable initiative they are heavily Cameroon for every school it sells in for health and also the British High involved in. the UK. “We have already funded two Commissioner. ● Kevin Dundas MCIOB and Tim schools, plus funded new furniture for Carey FCIOB were among a group another and are soon to be sending Find out more about the trip by who visited Africa for the School for funds for our third and fourth schools reading Kevin Dundas’s blog at a School charity. The charity was early in 2019,” says Dundas. https://sunesis.co.uk/news
Mental health Members of the CIOB Novus construction-related round, The event is due to take place Bristol Hub are organising a as well as a round of questions on Thursday 16 May, during Novus quiz fundraising pub quiz for the on mental health. Mental Health Awareness Week. benefit of Mates in Mind. The team behind the event The CIOB Novus Bristol team to raise funds for Mates in Mind aims to raise is looking for sponsorship and hopes the quiz will become an awareness, address the stigma of donations from large sector annual event. Mates in Mind poor mental health and improve organisations and smaller local positive mental wellbeing in the businesses, offering prizes To support the event or to take UK construction industry. to be won in the quiz, raffle, part contact Daniel Samson, BRISTOL HUB PLANS Quiz questions will business card lottery and assistant project manager at Mace, PUB QUIZ FOR CHARITY include general knowledge, a charity auction. at [email protected]
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 48 18/02/2019 15:36 ●
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 COMMUNITY
Members ENGIE construction specialists become chartered members The New Addington Leisure Centre site will offer training TYNE AND WEAR FIRM opportunities CELEBRATES CIOB SUCCESS
Training It will allow people to learn Level 1 construction operations, practical skills New ‘skills academy’ training, CSCS training, Level 1 health and boosts opportunity safety at work and employability skills. for Croydon “We plan to upskill between 10-15 people every six weeks and once trained, they can apply for placements with Willmott Dixon, our supply chain WILLMOT DIXON TRAINING partners and other construction jobs INITIATIVE IN CROYDON advertised through the Croydon Works employment service,” says Richard Seven employees in CIOB Training Partner ENGIE’s Willmott Dixon is working alongside Pickett from the firm. Hebburn office have now achieved MCIOB status the London Borough of Croydon on the Success will be measured in New Addington Leisure Centre – but it “outcomes” – the number of people who ENGIE’s Hebburn office our colleagues in their is aiming to offer more than a sporting gain a qualification that leads to a job, is celebrating the own career development facility with the build. rather than the number of attendees. professional success of its as the construction The contractor’s Building Lives The contractor plans to mirror the team with seven employees standard is recognised of the CIOB training partner around the world.” Academy will offer construction- academy at sites across the country. achieving Chartered Congratulations to related training in collaboration with In 2018 it was awarded the Queen’s membership. Jonathan Horner, MRG Services, Carshalton College Award for Enterprise in the category of In addition, Paul Young, operations manager; and Croydon Council’s job brokerage Promoting Opportunity, for its social operations manager Anthony Carr, planner; David Kinleyside, site service Croydon Works. value work. ● for ENGIE Places and Communities in the North manager; Simon Watson; East, has just recently project manager stepped down as the (pre-commencement); Event In his talks Flatau will explain how chairman for CIOB’s David Watson, construction transforming your mindset can deliver Newcastle Hub. manager and Barry Metters, Train your brain He said: “I’ve had a construction manager, career benefits to you and your team. great two years as who are pictured with for success The seminar sets out to challenge chairman for the local Mark Kearney, business you to unlock barriers and bring division of the CIOB and improvement director and success, happiness and fulfilment in it’s doubly pleasing for Lee Francis, area director. me that as I step down Commenting on EXPERT TO SHOW the workplace, as well as learning how from that post, I’m able receiving his CIOB HOW POSITIVE to get twice the productivity out of staff. to celebrate the fact membership, Horner PSYCHOLOGY Flatau’s work has helped leaders that ENGIE is now a CIOB said: “Chartership is a WORKS WONDERS from companies including HSBC, Training Partner and seven recognition of of my peers and colleagues ongoing development and Emirates Airlines, Siemens, American have been accredited as within the construction Tom Flatau, the managing director of Express, Emerson and Louis Vuitton. fully Chartered members industry it’s important Teamworking International, is holding He will also explore the neuroscience (MCIOB). to stay ahead of change, talks and one-to-one meetings to of resilience and how to manage the “This accolade is to ensure we grow as a great achievement professionals, raise discuss the neuroscience of leadership stress of deadlines, back-to-back for the company, as it standards within our and neuroplasticity and how it affects meetings, long hours, presentations, marks the highest levels organisations, both at a your work success and helps leadership. staff issues, even family demands. ● of competence and corporate and site level The events take place in the Channel professionalism, providing and demonstrate to our Islands in May but all CIOB members To book a place and find out assurance to clients clients that we have the and other professionals skills, knowledge and are welcome and the CIOB is organising more details about flights and procuring our services. experience to deliver work site visits after the event for anyone accommodation visit ciob.org or It’s also a huge triumph for safely and efficiently.” who attends. contact: [email protected]
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 49 18/02/2019 15:37 COMMUNITY MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Right: Folkestone’s new urban sports Below: The QTAS group receive their CIOB park will complete certificates at the awards evening in summer 2019
Site visit Members offered tour of new urban sports park build
JENNER’S NEW FOLKESTONE FACILITY IS TO BE WORLD’S FIRST
Awards overall winner in the Construction Members in the Kent area will have Excellence Awards 2018. the chance to view the construction CIOB awards Certificates were awarded to 34 of the world’s first multi-storey urban candidates who successfully passed sports park. celebrate their CIOB examinations last year Currently being built in the heart through QTAS and Training LMS of Folkestone by Jenner, a privately exam success training organisations. owned regional chartered building Peter Clarke (QTAS) was presented company, the facility will provide the with the Best Overall Performance opportunity to participate in many NORTHERN IRELAND CEREMONY Award for his outstanding results in the different sports including skating, REWARDS HIGH PERFORMANCE CMP programme in 2018 – achieving boxing, climbing and bouldering. both the highest marks in Ireland Each floor of the facility will and overseas. be distinctive, offering a unique Gary Blair, CIOB Belfast Hub chair, “There experience for visitors. The centre will praised the candidates’ work. “There are more include nearly 600 sq m of climbable are more candidates than ever going candidates spaces and the ground floor will host a through the CMP programme in Ireland, than ever competition sized boxing ring. which is testimony to the standing in going through The urban sports park will be which chartership of the institute is the CMP managed by Shepway Sports Trust now regarded – and the standard is also programme in (SST), a Folkestone-based independent rising year on year,” he said. Ireland – and charity established to encourage The award for the best full-time the standard participation and excellence in sport. final year Ulster University Student is rising year The scheme has been designed by BSc (Hons) Construction Engineering on year” Guy Hollaway Architects and will be Above: Peter Clarke receives his award for & Management was also presented to delivered using various construction achieving the highest marks in Ireland Mark Kitson. techniques including timber and CITB NI hosted another successful As part of the ceremony, certificates concrete surfaces for the skate floors, CIOB lecture and awards evening were awarded to those who gained top combining the need for durability and in January, acknowledging local grades in GCSE Construction and Built flexibility to modify and upgrade as students in their professional exams Environment in 2018. First place was skating trends evolve. in 2018. awarded to Craig Francey of Dunclug The building is set for completion in The lecture was presented by College, Ballymena. Second place went summer 2019. ● Heron Bros and focused on its to Rebecca Gilbert of Rainey Endowed work in completing the £27m Foyle School, Magherafelt, and third to Nathan The site visit takes place on March 26. College, which was awarded the Nelson of Ballymena Academy. ● To book, email [email protected]
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Madisen Judge Meet a member
Madisen Judge, project services student
Events Drone On! At the Members’ Forum I 14 March, 6pm-8pm, Norwich met so many great members Diary dates A presentation and Q&A on drones who always commented that by Bexcopter. The firm has worked some of the best mentors HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CIOB with a range of construction companies, or professionals they know CALENDAR FOR THE COMING offering clients video, photo and in the industry are women 3D opportunities. which is great, however MONTH. FOR MORE EVENTS Contact: [email protected]. it shouldn’t come as a VISIT CIOB.ORG surprise! I think that while Breaking Big – SME workshop promoting women to join 19 March, 6pm-8.30pm Maidstone the construction industry A workshop for SME owners/directors is great, for me, I feel more showing how to quickly and clearly review pressure to prove myself to Contract Comparisons where your business is right now and Tell us about your journey be considered a construction 5 March, 7pm-9.30pm Tonbridge consider what should be done to achieve so far in this industry? professional rather than just Join the CIOB Maidstone hub and a your personal vision. I’m 24 years old and I live a woman in construction. selection of leading experts in contracts The event will help you to develop the in Perth, Western Australia. I think that in order to and law for a discussion on the key risks in marketing, people management and the I’m currently going into my move forward, women in the latest forms of standard construction financial strategies for your business to last year of my construction construction shouldn’t be contract. Each speaker will present their achieve breakthrough growth and success. management degree (at talked about as a different considerations of the main risks and The course is delivered by Peter Searle, Curtin University), which entity within the industry advantages of working with the forms. a director at Kier for 10 years before setting is pretty exciting but also but just as construction Speakers are James Frampton, up his Business Doctors business in 2015. very daunting. professionals. barrister with Keating Chambers (NEC); Contact: [email protected] So far most of my Stefan Berry, associate with Quigg Golden experience in the industry What are your career (JCT); and Edward Quigg, Quigg Golden Grenfell: Cladding and Tall Buildings has been in quantity ambitions? - barrister (non-practising), chartered 20 March, 6pm-9pm, Oxford surveying, where I’m a cadet I chose the construction procurement and supply professional and A joint Constructing Excellence and have been juggling my industry because of its civil engineer (chair). event led by James Bessey, partner studies while working four influence and importance Contact: [email protected] at law firm Blake Morgan. days a week (for Woodside all over the world. I love to Contact: [email protected] Energy). I love going on travel, and I first fell in love BIM, Digital Life, the Universe site and liaising with the with architecture rather and Everything CPD Time Management contractor, client and other than construction, but soon 12 March, 6:30pm-8.30pm, Brighton 28 March, 6pm-8.30pm Bristol consultants – you get to found out after a few years A CPD event session from BIM and design Utilising the CIOB Guide to Good Practice learn so much about the of an architecture degree management expert John Eynon FCIOB, in the Management of Time in Major Projects industry by just asking that I’m more interested in owner/director of Open Water Consulting, 2nd Edition, the seminar will provide an questions! the construction side who will give an overview of the digital overview of the guide, covering: of buildings. transformation of the built environment l Core principles You were quite vocal at the I would love the chance and the impact of BIM on design, l Strategy Members’ Forum in Toronto to travel while working in construction and operation of built assets, l Building the time model last year about “the old the industry to experience in the wider context of UK BIM Level 2 and l De veloping and managing the boys’ club”. For anyone who different methods and Industry 4.0. time model wasn’t there can you please considerations for Eynon is a qualified architect who l Communication. share your views? construction and its methods. has specialised in construction design The presenters are Robert Clark of I think due to the nature of But for now, I’m just focusing management and is author of The Design Failand Consultancy and Trevor Drury the construction industry on finding a good graduate Manager’s Handbook and The Construction of Morecraft Drury and 12 Old Square previously being viewed as a programme for next year – Manager’s BIM Handbook. He is Chambers. They were members of the male-only industry has made so, baby steps to start with. currently ambassador for the UK BIM working group and content contributors to it an “old boys’ club”, with no Alliance, chair and director of BIM Regions both editions of the guide. offence meant at all by that How do you spend your UK CIC, a consultant trainer and coach for Clark specialises in project and statement! Nonetheless, it spare time? Digital Node and a university lecturer. programme management and is a can also make it an industry I like to go to the beach, He is also researching a PhD related to chartered construction professional that women don’t feel 100% or when I have the time I BIM and design management at Leeds and Drury is a barrister and chartered comfortable in as it isn’t as like to go camping with my Beckett University. construction professional. common to see a woman on boyfriend and my dog, Jed, Contact: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] a construction site. around Perth.
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 51 18/02/2019 15:38 Tuesday 30 April 2019 l Church House, Westminster Conservation, Adaptation and Maintenance of the Built Environment An informative and inspiring event for professionals in the heritage and conservation sector. Now in its fifth year, this popular conference, run in partnership with English Heritage, will be exploring quality and standards in the heritage sector.
Meet an array of inspirational speakers, and witness a series of fascinating case studies that showcase impressive heritage projects from around the UK. And what could be a more fitting location than Church House, a Grade II listed building nestled in the grounds of London’s breath-taking Westminster Abbey?
DON’T MISS OUT, SECURE YOUR TICKET TODAY https://events.ciob.org/conservation2019
52_53.CM Mar19.ciob ad.indd 52 18/02/2019 16:11 Tuesday 30 April 2019 l Church House, Westminster Conservation, Adaptation and Maintenance of the Built Environment An informative and inspiring event for professionals in the heritage and conservation sector. Now in its fifth year, this popular conference, run in partnership with English Heritage, will be exploring quality and standards in the heritage sector.
Meet an array of inspirational speakers, and witness a series of fascinating case studies that showcase impressive heritage projects from around the UK. And what could be a more fitting location than Church House, a Grade II listed building nestled in the grounds of London’s breath-taking Westminster Abbey?
DON’T MISS OUT, SECURE YOUR TICKET TODAY https://events.ciob.org/conservation2019
52_53.CM Mar19.ciob ad.indd 53 18/02/2019 16:11
COMMUNITY MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Me and my project and pool room, a dedicated home cinema, discrete architectural speaker Going swimmingly system and universal access to central Sky, Apple TV and other media sources. “A marble floor covering runs Throughout the house sophisticated from the front to the back of IN THE HEART OF KNIGHTSBRIDGE A HIGH-END lighting controls are installed, along the basement, connecting all RESIDENTIAL PROJECT IS TAKING SHAPE. with window treatments including the rooms and finishing in and JAMES LUND-LACK TALKS US THROUGH control of the motorised blackout blind around the pool room” ITS EXTRAORDINARILY HIGH SPEC AND THE and curtain window treatments. James Lund-Lack, Red Square CHALLENGES OF THE POOL Miles of Cat 6 and fibre cabling have been installed to enable the various communication requirements, such connecting all the rooms and finishing as a robust wireless network for smart in and around the pool room. phones and laptops; wired network The marble was sourced from an for PCs and other fixed devices; whole Italian quarry, with specific slabs house phone system providing room to reserved. A textured finish was applied room intercom; and multi-line calling for grip, with extra composite rein- features with high speed fibre-optic forcing applied to strengthen the water broadband service. jet-cut slots bridging the drainage Security requests include intruder channel below. and fire alarms, video door entry with All veining had to run in one direc- keyless entry and CCTV whole-house tion, which means over 50% of the security systems, monitored 24/7 and tiles are individual. We allowed for A five-minute walk from Harrods sits centrally recorded. The house boasts a wastage by keeping a reserve of the the six-storey 510 sq m mock Tudor swimming pool which has been retiled raw materials at the quarry, ready for town house we’re renovating. We had and the air handling unit moved with production should a spare be needed; already refurbished it but were invited new ducting and grills, a heat retention needless to say, this contingency was back by the new owners to complete pool cover installed to reduce the not called upon and the end product some minor decoration works, and the amount of power consumed and AHU is stunning. ● scope quickly developed. workload along with a UV unit to cut James Lund-Lack MCIOB is general Three years later the house has been the chlorine requirement by 50%. manager of Red Square. completely stripped back, with many The wall finishes are a mix of made- of the rooms reconfigured. The ground Top right and above: to-measure bronze mirrors and sculp- The Knightsbridge town house was stripped floor has been opened up into a single Marble from tural Armourcoat wall panels, and for back and reconfigured with luxury finishes an Italian quarry space which required a 6m fire curtain was used for the a seamless finish an invisible hanging for the escape route between the stair basement pool room system has been used from US-based well and front door. Monarch Fabrication – it took a lot of The home automation system is Above: James Lund- research to find this solution. With Lack of Red Square elaborate: heating, cooling and audio- a 2mm tolerance for fitting the wall visual requirements are fully integrated finishes, and a lengthy wait to have the using Crestron and Lutron controls delivery released from customs, it’s not with custom back boxes and fascia been the most straightforward process, plates. The house has a multi-room AV but we’re very happy with the result. system with the latest flat panel TVs in Tying in with the pool room is a principal living spaces and bedrooms, marble floor covering which runs from mirror-treatment TVs in bathrooms the front to the back of the basement,
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 54 18/02/2019 15:39
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER | MARCH 2019 COMMUNITY
Partnership
Conservation Canterbury tales matters Coniston are currently carrying HERITAGE EXPERT CONISTON, out the five- SPONSOR OF THIS YEAR’S CIOB year project to CONSERVATION CONFERENCE, restore the roof DISCUSSES ITS WORK of Canterbury Cathedral. The Grade-I listed cathedral is a Coniston are award-winning heritage historic landmark, construction specialists based in dating back to 1020 and part of a Dartford, Kent. Celebrating our 40th World Heritage Site. birthday this year, we have a long The cathedral is history of carrying out projects within often described as the conservation sector. Coniston has “England in stone” as its history is proudly supported the CIOB conservation intrinsically linked conference for a number of years, and to the country’s once again this year is honoured to be history, and it has the Platinum Sponsor for the event. been a place of worship for more Coniston is a traditional building than 1,400 years. company, still owned and managed by This milestone its founding partner. We also carry project involves a large, skilled in-house workforce, the installation of bringing many years of heritage and a temporary roof over the nave of the conservation experience to every project. cathedral to allow We have an enviable client portfolio, for the removal of working with some of the UK’s most the existing roof. prestigious heritage institutions The existing lead that was removed, including the British Museum, was recast off-site Canterbury Cathedral, the Victoria and and reused as Albert Museum, the Natural History part of the new Museum and Somerset House. Coniston installation. The existing is proud of an 80% repeat business rate, Canterbury Cathedral is one of Coniston’s prestigious heritage clients timbers were testament we believe to the quality of subject to service and workmanship we provide. specialist repairs The quality of our work has been using pitch pine, recognised through the years with a Douglas fir and English oak. number of awards. Coniston has been The CIOB conservation The project is recipient of RIBA, RICS, Museums conference, Conservation, due to be carried out and Heritage, Brick Awards, Building Adaptation & Maintenance of the over five years, with Awards, Construction Manager of the Built Environment, will be held at a full programme to replace the roof over Year Awards and Europe Nostra. ● Church House, Westminster, on the nave, adjacent Coniston is a Chartered Building 30 April 2019. For full details see aisles and the roofs Company. http://bit.ly/conservation2019 over the towers.
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CM Community March 2019_sc.indd 55 18/02/2019 15:39 TO ADVERTISE YOUR POSITIONS ON THESE PAGES, CONTACT IAN HARTLEY ON T: 020 7183 1815 [email protected]
Introducing the National Legal Consortium Unlimited Construction Law advice for a fixed monthly fee.
The National Legal Consortium provides a completely l Unlimited reviews of Construction Contracts new approach to legal services by offering unlimited and Contract advice – paid for by the scheme Construction Law advice for an agreed fee, from as little l Clients of the National Legal Consortium are entitled as £150 plus vat per month. to use its logo on their notepaper and website showing l There are no hourly rates, no monthly bills and no that they have access to legal advice in the event clock watching. of a dispute. l Clients of the National Legal Consortium are entitled to unlimited Construction Law advice: The scheme offers the advantage of a Construction Lawyer l Unlimited telephone advice service – paid for by on your staff without the salary. We believe that we make the scheme an important contribution to the success of our client’s l Taking proceedings on disputes arising after they join the businesses and are proud of the testimonials scheme – paid for by the scheme and case studies at www.nlcuk.net l Defending Claims arising after they join the scheme – paid for by the scheme Find out more about the National Legal Consortium, l Unlimited advice on notices or other issues arising during including the costs of the scheme at www.nlcuk.net works – paid for by the scheme or call David Jackson on 0800 085 7772
CLASSIFIED
Hundreds of the best jobs in construction. Recruitment news and insight. Employers seeking CIOB members.
www.constructionmanagerjobs.co.uk
56.CM.Mar19.Classified.indd 56 18/02/2019 17:53 BIM+
The UK's best read digital construction resource.
Exclusive news, views, interviews, debate and case studies on all the latest digital technologies from 3D printing and robotics to off-site manufacturing and virtual reality. How digital technologies are creating efficiencies and productivity for firms across the supply chain from designers to contractors and product manufacturers.
A site for anyone working in digital construction from beginners through to experienced practitioners. Every part of the BIM journey provided by industry experts, software developers and industry bodies. Project stories and case studies to guide you through BIM adoption.
www.bimplus.co.uk
57.ads.CMJan19.NEW Bimfillersingle.indd 9 10/12/2018 16:31 TRAINING & RECRUITMENT MARCH 2019 | CONSTRUCTION MANAGER
Training & Recruitment
mentoring role – both internally, within the Job spotlight Mace business, and externally, with initiatives John Egerton In-depth training such as the mayor’s mentoring programme. Operations director, Mace benefits everyone Did you have to undergo any special training? What skills does a mentor need? Rob Pell, head of construction VOICE OF I haven’t undertaken any formal training. There at Yorkshire-based Priestley are training modules out there but I have found Construction, calls for a the most productive tool has been self-reflection. revolution in skills training EXPERIENCE Understanding your own journey – the twists, and apprenticeships JOHN EGERTON,OPERATIONS turns and bumps in the road – provides the I have worked in the DIRECTOR AT MACE, HAS JOINED opportunity to consider what went well, what industry for 40 years, so it THE MENTORS INITIATIVE LAUNCHED not so much, and what you’d do differently if goes without saying I’ve seen LAST YEAR BY THE WEST MIDLANDS you could do it all again. This has helped provide countless challenges – from MAYOR, ANDY STREET context to the advice I have given; there is no endless housing shortages to the 2008 recession and now Brexit. better context than real-life examples. People are the key to meeting these head Understanding your mentee, and being on. But the onus is on companies to put in the tuned in to their current situation, goals and effort to attract talent, impart the necessary future ambitions, is essential to ensure that skills, and retain the people you’ve invested in. you are pointing them in the right direction. The CIOB recently reported that 170,000 new recruits are needed by 2021. As a country, Finally, creating connections has proven to we rely heavily on the EU to plug the skills gap; be of huge value. Unlocking the potential of but, with Brexit looming, if the sector doesn’t someone’s career is not just developing them respond proactively, there’s a strong risk that as an individual but putting them in front of the the gap will widen significantly. Our apprenticeship schemes need to be right audience, or people who can help them radically overhauled. There’s a focus on fast- to realise their career aspirations. tracking young people through training to get them on site as soon as possible. This misses the Mace is supportive of the mentor scheme. point entirely – we end up with a raft of young What benefits does it bring to the business? people who don’t have a broader awareness of how the industry operates day-to-day. Mentoring has a number of business benefits. We The government is beginning to address continue to be on a campaign to attract the best this, allocating £22m to more in-depth onsite talent. By proactively engaging in mentoring construction training, but there needs to be a schemes we are able to provide the right support more concerted effort by all. Passing on practical expertise is not and guidance at the time it is needed most. This
PAUL PAINTER PAUL enough – we need to show how sites in turn creates an environment of development operate, in terms of contracts and project What spurred you to take on the mentor role? for people progressing throughout their careers management, for example. This opens up When I reflect on my own career I think about at Mace, who are then willing to provide this pathways to further career progression. In the positive contributions that have led me to support and guidance to others in return. ● short, trainees need to be better empowered. I recommend a two to three-year scheme, where I am, the people who have influenced similar to degree education, with onsite and guided me with the right advice at the right training at a single company at its core. This time. The voice of experience is invaluable to will create continuity and attract higher the progression of your career. calibre applicants – our future leaders. Industry and government need to come Now, I take a keen interest in giving back together to develop major training programmes to an industry that has provided me with so Hundreds of the best jobs in construction. that offer young people the first rung of the much support and opportunity over the years. Recruitment news and insight. ladder and show them the view from the top. ● This is what has motivated me to take on a www.constructionmanagerjobs.co.uk
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58.CMMar19.Recruit_sc.indd 58 18/02/2019 12:36 Meeting the Making the challenges commitments
The challenge is on to to make change happen. The 2030 Challenge ensure that the world ecobuild conference at Futurebuild Construction Leadership Challenge has a sustainable future 2019 will further inform architects Retrofi t Challenge for Housing and designers, consultants and Circular Economy Challenge For this our industry can infl uence constructors, and public and Health & Wellbeing Challenge the resilience, sustainability and private sector clients on how to Urban Challenge quality of homes, buildings, all tackle the industry’s most pressing Environment Challenge elements of infrastructure and challenges. From housebuilding Future Practice Challenge cities. Global scientifi c evidence to cities, and build quality to Housing Challenge and strategies like the UN leadership, the conference will Sustainable Development Goals, share insights and learning from Climate Change Challenge are giving a clear message: it is industry experts. Quality Challenge now time to think the unthinkable Challenge to Achieve Real Change Commitment Challenge for the Industry
Get your free three-day ticket to the ecobuild conference at Futurebuild 2019 and #TimeForAction join the industry in thinking the unthinkable. www.futurebuild.co.uk/TimeForAction
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