Offsite: We need to think differently

Angela Mansell of Mansell Building Solutions.

God knows there are a lot of changes coming our way when it comes to construction and just as many challenges in how we react to that change.

There was one conversation in particular that we are still chewing the fat over: the sticky wicket of construction methodology.

Mansell ran a private round table on Wednesday entitled: “Building Smarter, Not Harder – Getting Construction Methodology Right From the Start”. We were joined by some influential and experienced industry figures to really get into the weeds on the topic and dig into what is holding the built environment back from realising the potential of offsite and modern methods of construction.

There’s a simple truth in construction: start off on the wrong foot and you risk making problems for yourself further down the line.

‘Fail to prepare, prepare to fail,’ as the adage goes. That’s even more relevant in today’s construction market where we’ve been steadily moving further away from traditional methods towards other options like offsite and MMC.

As we’ve argued elsewhere: for offsite to be a success, we need to think differently about how we plan projects and we must get specialist contractors at the table when the nuts and bolts of the design are nailed down. This approach to construction methodology would open the industry up to the benefits of the offsite approach while also positively addressing some of the things it’s sometimes criticised for.

Put simply, a solid construction methodology needs to start with rigorous early-stage coordination where all the relevant parties are at the table to catch problems before they occur. This gives projects the best chance possible of ensuring the timely, hiccup-free delivery of each of the build elements.

It’s the golden ticket to a smooth construction ride. So why isn’t it happening?

The costly domino effect

If you miss the boat to plan effectively with a new project, it won’t be long until you feel the consequences. Buildability issues are just for starters – if the right people aren’t in place to help you plan your offsite/MMC project effectively, you run the risk of creating problems further down the line.

It’s not just about fitting panels; it’s about ensuring everything lines up  – from plumbing to electrics to the final lick of paint. Get this wrong, and you could be in for delays, cost overruns, and the kind of stress that has you drawing in a new hairline.

As we all know, cost overruns can be a real nightmare to any project. If there are multiple unexpected turns that repeatedly crank up your budget, it’s like you’re digging a hole only to find another bill instead of treasure. And when your timeline stretches out, it’s not just the schedule that suffers; it’s your reputation.

Not to bang that gong again, but proper planning and a construction methodology that has all the specialist contractors at the table from the earliest point are some of the best protections against this.

The illusion of saving time

When delays stack up, it affects everything from workforce morale to client trust. And in this industry, trust is your bread and butter. Lose it, and it’s a long climb back. What’s more, the mental health of our workforce is incredibly important. In an industry like construction where we have a larger proportion of workers who suffer from poor mental health, we owe it to them to ensure undue stress from issues resulting from poor planning are kept to the bare minimum.

While there’s often a desire from all parties to get started on a project as soon as possible, skimping on the design and planning process is a completely false economy. You spend less time now, only to pay it back in spades months later when the shaky foundations of your approach make themselves known.

This all goes back to this idea of valuing time. For me, its important to factor in the value of time right at the outset of a project. Like any commodity we budget for in a project, time should figure in the mix. As they say, time is money and we should be looking to be as efficient as we would be with Steel or concrete.

Fixing a broken system

Now let’s look at the alternative approach. When you loop your specialist contractors in from the off and give the planning stage the thought and consideration it deserves, you’ll save time, money, and resources further down the line because there are simply fewer roadblocks to contend with. Build methods like offsite have certain requirements that traditional methods don’t and to really extract maximum value from the method, we need to bring in the experts at the earliest opportunity to set the stage for successful delivery.

With our expertise on board, we ensure that every piece of the puzzle is precision-cut and ready to slot into place – that’s the beauty of offsite construction. With the construction methodology carefully planned and executed, you’re free to enjoy all the benefits of offsite and MMC.

Getting the most from offsite

Offsite construction gets a lot of attention these days and for good reason. There are numerous benefits it has over traditional methods and with the skills shortage as it is, it has to form a big part of the future of the built environment. However, it’s sometimes criticised for issues at the fitting stage where planning has been inefficient.

When offsite is backed up by thorough planning, it really sings. With panels and parts made to measure in a controlled environment, we cut out the unpredictability of traditional building sites. Fewer weather delays, less material waste – it’s a win-win for everyone involved. The approach offers something that’s difficult to put a number on – certainty.

This method and others like it will be key to the industry revving up and delivering on the promise of more sustainable, better quality and affordable homes at scale.

At Mansell, we’re lucky enough to work with some fantastic clients that bring us to the design table from day one, reaping the benefits of our skills, knowledge, and experience. That’s not typically the industry norm.

Let’s make it a mantra. Commit to optimal project planning and bring in specialist contractors from the earliest stages to guide construction methodology. Embrace contractor expertise, genuinely listen to them, and reap the rewards that come with this change in process.

Building smarter, not harder

We’re not just passionate about construction; we’re passionate about doing it right. It’s about delivering buildings that last, changing the way we deal with carbon, and creating social value that resonates. These aren’t just buzzwords; here at Mansell, they’re woven into the fabric of our business.

In the end, it’s about working smarter, not harder. With solid early planning, including the right people from the start, and embracing innovative methods like offsite construction, we don’t just build – we build smarter.

Source: Place North West

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Election Coundown: The Property Market Considers

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that the country will head to the polling booths on 4th July 2024.

Traditionally, a General Election would send the property market into a torpor of uncertainty, and the past few election seasons have been characterised by fears of potential tax hikes and punitive measures against the prime property sector. But the feeling this time is more positive, or at least sanguine.

Estate agents, buying agents and developers have roundly welcomed news of an imminent election. As Jamie Freeman of Haringtons UK summarises: “The sooner the better, as everyone dislikes uncertainty.” Will Watson of The Buying Solution is already looking forward to a post-election market bounce, suggesting there may be a “Summer/Autumn flourish with more demand and vendors deciding to sell.”

It helps that most political polls are pointing to a clear-cut and decisive result in July, so there’s less of that uncertainty flying around. And Labour’s policies are markedly more mellow compared to the Corbyn era, with not so much distance between the two main parties. Starmer is widely perceived as a safe pair of hands after years of turbulent Conservative rule.

Exactly a year ago, PrimeResi asked a panel of property professionals about what a Labour-led government could mean for the market. Of course there were worries about higher tax rates and policies targeting international buyers, but the consensus amongst our commentators was not negative.

In September, Mark Parkinson of top-end agency Middleton Advisors talked of “cause for optimism” in the prospect of a Starmer government. “The likelihood of an incoming Labour government no longer feels like a massive threat to prime property markets in London and the country,” he said.

Then in January, a poll of residential property developers by Knight Frank found a clear majority (70%) in favour of Keir Starmer in Downing Street, rather than a Tory or Lib Dem leader.

We also already know a fair bit about Labour’s housing policy agenda, ahead of formal manifesto launches. Starmer has pledged to “get Britain building” while warning of an increase in the SDLT rate for overseas buyers; Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves has promised reforms and more funds for the planning system, and just this week, Shadow Housing Secretary Angela Rayner outlined her plans for planning reform, ending the leasehold regime, and building a series of new towns.

 

Talking Heads: On a July election

The prospect of a change in government is priced into large parts of the prime market

Lucian Cook, head of residential research at Savills: “Affordability is by far the biggest factor in the mainstream housing market. Accordingly, we expect the pace and scale of interest rate cuts to have a more significant impact on the market than the timing or outcome of the general election, not least because of the short odds on a change in government.

“Headline inflation’s fall to 2.3% in the year to April indicates two or three bank base rate cuts, this year. That is likely to mean mortgage markets remain relatively stable in the short term, with the prospect of lower borrowing costs as the year progresses.

“And with a shorter-than-expected run in to the general election, there is more opportunity for buyer demand to gain traction over the autumn, with most of the uncertainty behind us.

“At the top end of the housing market, our March client survey showed a degree of ambivalence towards the prospect of a general election, with 79% of respondents saying it had no impact whatsoever on their commitment to move over the next 12 months.

“While prime property buyers may well have to contend with higher levels of underlying taxation, VAT on private school fees and targeted measures for overseas buyers, there is a sense that wealthy domestic buyers know what they are in for.

“That means the prospect of a change in government is priced into large parts of the prime market, especially as talk of more aggressive wealth taxes (think back to the ill-fated mansion tax proposals of the early 2010s) haven’t surfaced.

“The tax treatment of non-doms is the one potential source of disruption, suggesting a cautious summer market in prime central London. It has the potential to cause increased short-term price sensitivity and act as a drag on any subsequent recovery, that feels long overdue.

“More widely, while a change in government would be unlikely to materially change the macro-economic backdrop, current indications are that it would result in a change in the focus of housing delivery and planning, with Labour putting its ambition to deliver 1.5 million homes over the next five years high up its political agenda. While that has the potential to change the housing landscape over time, it is unlikely to have a significant impact on the market in the near term.

“From a policy perspective, perhaps the biggest impact of a July general election is the prospect that the Renters Reform Bill (which currently sits at the Committee Stage at the House of Lords) will struggle to be enacted before parliament is dissolved.

“However, with both main parties advocating reform in this area, it remains a case of “when” not “if” we see the abolition of the Assured Shorthold Tenancy across England and Wales, the main issue being the manner in which new regulations are introduced and the balance between protecting Landlord and Tenants interests. In that respect, close attention is likely to be given to the potential impact on the availability of homes to rent in an already undersupplied market.”

 

The sooner the better, as everyone dislikes uncertainty

Jamie Freeman, director, Haringtons UK: “We have all hoped that the bad weather in the early part of the year might have been the only thing to affect the country house market, but as ever the timing of the election will impact it further by pushing activity back in the year.

“Buyers are extremely cautious currently and understandable so, for those paying schools fees, the likely increase cost will inevitably impact the funds available for a house purchase with cost of debt not aiding either. For others the prospect of a Labour government and a possible wealth tax will have similar vibes. Sellers were reluctant to show properties in the rain and preferred to wait for their gardens to bloom and for sunny weather to take photos before listing their homes. With recent spells of good weather, more properties have entered the market. However, the announcement of a general election is likely to delay activity until after.

“But with an election later in the Autumn writing off the whole year, a July election could be seen as a result. The sooner the better, as everyone dislikes uncertainty and will likely wait to see the election results before making decisions.

“The increase in cost of schools, potentially 20-30% could lead to increased competition for homes in areas with good state schools, as parents might opt to move their children from private to state education.”

 

An election in July is positive news for the property market

Will Watson Head of The Buying Solution: “Calling an election in July is positive news for the property market – there are many buyers and sellers sitting on their hands waiting for clarity. We want the election over so the market can adjust and all the questions surrounding the non-dom status can be addressed more quickly, particularly if we have a new Labour government.

“There’s nothing worse, for any market, particularly property, than political uncertainty. When the dust settles post July 4th we might even have a Summer/Autumn flourish with more demand and vendors deciding to sell.”

 

The outcome is fairly certain this time around and the markets have already taken the outcome into account

Jess Simpson, Managing Director & Founder at Jess Simpson Property Search: “A short time frame between the announcement and the election could not be a better result for the property market.  The prime market is dictated by confidence and too much uncertainty always has a negative impact in what is generally a discretionary market. The sterling/USD rate remained stable yesterday, as did the FTSE which is encouraging.

“The outcome is fairly certain this time around and the markets have already taken the outcome into account.

“Continued low inflation will hopefully continue to calm bank rates, also adding some much-needed confidence back into the market.

“The market this spring will be short and sharp.  Lots of property entering the market now, with launches late due to poor weather delaying country houses looking their finest for presentation for sale. There will be lots to choose from and hopefully more of a buyers’ market this summer.”

 

We don’t expect significant disruption

Dominic Agace, chief executive of estate agents Winkworth: “With positive news in the offing and a New Labour version of the Labour party being proposed, we don’t expect significant disruption.  Interest rate cuts are expected and growth upgrades for the UK paint a picture for an improving property market this year after an already positive start.

“The biggest house price growth came when Blair was in power. We saw a rise of £48 a day on the average property price, which is contrary to popular belief that the Thatcher era saw the biggest growth due to Right to Buy.”

 

This shotgun election means we now stand a chance of having a half decent Autumn market regardless of who is elected

Edward Heaton, founder of buying agency Heaton and Partners: “We’d expected a short selling season this year with most transactions agreed before the summer holidays followed by a dampened autumn market because of the anticipated election. This shotgun election means we now stand a chance of having a half decent Autumn market regardless of who is elected.

“It will be fascinating to see whether buyers are willing to commit to a purchase in the next couple of months and I suspect some of those that are could be rewarded with more favourable terms than they might otherwise have expected.

“For wealthy buyers, there is certainly nothing like the fear that we witnessed in the last election with the threat of a Corbyn government. I think the domestic audience is resigned to paying higher taxes probably regardless of the outcome of the election. We anticipate many international buyers will adopt a more cautious approach until the landscape becomes clearer.”

 

We anticipate a repeat of what happened after the General Election in 2019

Robin Thomas, consultant at Recoco Property Search: “The announcement by the Prime Minister of a General Election to take place on 4th July is excellent news for the UK property market. There is currently a large differential as to what sellers expect to achieve by way of a sale price and what buyers are prepared to pay. Many vendors are still hoping to achieve prices that were being paid in 2021/2 but prices have dropped since and buyers have been worried by the economy and interest rates.

“Now that we have a definite date for the General Election, we anticipate a repeat of what happened after the General Election in 2019 with a Government given a clear majority and thereby giving the property market the confidence it currently lacks. If this happens, we will see a much more active property market in the late summer and autumn.”

 

The General Election is unlikely to cause the housing market to slow down

Nigel Bishop, of buying agency Recoco Property Search: “The General Election is unlikely to cause the housing market to slow down as the majority of buyers are taking advantage of the Spring market, which has seen an influx in the number of properties being put up for sale.

“Sellers remain eager to sell now in the hope of securing the right buyer for their home – especially as, despite a higher-than-expected inflation reading, some lenders have begun cutting mortgage rates which fuels buyer demand even further.”

 

We need a new Government now with a clear mandate to drive the UK forward

Adam Lawrence, chief executive of property developer London Square: “We have been in limbo for so long. We welcome clarity.

“It will be good for the housing sector and business generally. We need a new Government now with a clear mandate to drive the UK forward.”

 

The outcome of this election will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the property market for the foreseeable future

Jerome Lartaud, director of independent buying agency, Domus Holmes: “The next six weeks will be a period of cautious observation for many in the property market. We are likely to see a stall in activity as buyers and sellers adopt a wait-and-see approach, with many preferring to delay major financial decisions until the political landscape is clearer.

“There is a concern that some homeowners and investors may decide to relocate their assets outside of the UK. This trend could be driven by uncertainties around potential policy changes and economic stability. If significant changes are anticipated in taxation or property regulations, especially regarding stamp duty or capital gains tax, we may see an outflow of investment to more stable markets.

“The outcome of this election will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the property market for the foreseeable future. Should a new government implement favourable policies, such as cuts in stamp duty or other incentives, it could rejuvenate the market and encourage both domestic and international investment. Conversely, policies perceived as detrimental to property owners and investors could exacerbate market stagnation and drive further asset relocation abroad.

“The election’s result will set the tone for market dynamics moving forward, highlighting the importance of clear and supportive housing policies in maintaining market confidence and stability.”

 

We don’t see the election having as big an impact as in previous years

Richard Donnell, executive director at Zoopla: “We don’t see the election having as big an impact as in previous years, particularly as there is not a huge divide in policy between the two main parties and with few specifics on housing other than a focus on reforming the private rental sector and boosting housing supply.

“We don’t see the election having as big an impact as in previous years.”

 

An election in the summer, when the market is traditionally slower, could have less impact on housing market activity than if one had been called for the Autumn

Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s property expert: “A look back at recent elections shows that house prices and activity usually hold steady in the lead up to the event, and we often then see a post-election bounce.

“It’s taking over seven months to move on average and we’re still seeing pent up demand from last year flowing through into 2024. This means that, for many, the desire to get on with moving is likely to outweigh waiting to see what new policies the Government could bring in.

“An election in the summer, when the market is traditionally slower, could have less impact on housing market activity than if one had been called for the Autumn. So, as we head towards this election, the housing market is likely to stay active, with activity ramping up once the election is over and things become clearer. It could mean that we’re gearing up for a stronger than usual August, especially if we see interest rates finally start to fall.”

 

Housing must be a key theme for all political parties

Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark: “Housing is the cornerstone for every single community across the UK. It’s the foundation to a strong economy, and must be a key theme that all political parties are placing front and centre of their general election campaigns.

“Many successive governments have failed to keep pace with demand, and we would encourage potential policy makers from all sides to place a rejuvenated emphasis on tackling current issues and meeting future demand.

“There must be a sustainable mix of housing solutions for both buyers and renters, as well as a commitment to ensuring the UK leads regarding, innovation, quality, and environmental sustainability. In addition, any new government must ensure there is comprehensive support in place for first time buyers to prevent the prospect of home ownership being out of reach, but equally ensure the housing market remains balanced for all. It is also important there is a full scale commitment to ensure wider infrastructure is also planned for, as we witness an ever growing population.”

Increasing housing supply, planning reforms and the battle over building on green belt land will take more than a few new policy initiatives whichever Government comes into power

Wayne Douglas, Managing Director at City & Country: “The general election announcement comes as no surprise and I hope to see much-needed change, but it will not happen overnight. Increasing housing supply, planning reforms and the battle over building on green belt land will take more than a few new policy initiatives whichever Government comes into power. The new government must address the skills shortages that are causing the problem, such as a lack of experienced planners and a lack of skilled tradespeople. For example, the Royal Town Planning Institute revealed that 25% of planners left the public sector between 2013 and 2020, and in the same period the number in the private sector grew by 80%. And on construction sites all over the UK, complex projects are being delayed by a lack of skilled tradespeople.

“On a local and national level, the new UK Government need to create an environment where private, and particularly SME housebuilders, can thrive and ultimately support the end buyer. I would urge the new Government to engage with our industry to get development off the ground more quickly and support demand for new homes across our country consistently rather than use it for short term political gain via headline-grabbing negative statements.”

 

We can no longer allow politics to drive the housing market the way it has over the last 30 years

Kate Faulkner OBE, property expert: “Whoever is in government next, just like interest rate changes have been de-politicised, so must our housing strategy and delivery. It is clear that successive governments over the last 30 years, of all colours, have failed to deliver a housing sector that works for all: social tenants and those in the private sector. This failure must be addressed as a new Government comes to power. If it isn’t,  we will see more people on the streets and kids growing up in unacceptable temporary accommodation.

“For every £1 spent on building a new home, £2.41 is put back into the economy, so housing drives much needed economic growth. We are short of 1mn social homes, as a result, we have 1mn households on benefits renting in a poorly regulated private rented sector and not enough affordable homes for the next generation to buy. Robbing Peter to pay Paul policies by reducing the PRS to support First Time Buyers has resulted in more people on the streets and in temporary accommodation and the biggest rise in rents we have seen for years.

“We need a strategy that eradicates our shameful housing waiting lists. Focusing on this will free up more homes to rent and buy in the private sector.

“We can no longer allow politics to drive the housing market the way it has over the last 30 years. We can fix our housing crisis, but only if the public and private sector work together to fund decent homes in all tenures.”

 

The small window of warning gives little time for any added uncertainty or nervousness

Kate Eales, deputy head of residential at Strutt & Parker: “The news of the general election being just six weeks away should be met by the market with a sigh of relief rather than a gasp of panic. The small window of warning gives little time for any added uncertainty or nervousness, and is good news for people wanting to sell quickly, particularly if they have deadlines to meet like the school term in September or a new job.

“Those who have been leaning on a ‘wait and see’ attitude can now proceed with confidence as, regardless of the election result, the remainder of the year will deliver a busy market fuelled by those who have been sitting on their hands and a more buoyant economy. Positive inflation figures and mortgage lenders pricing in anticipated interest rate falls have already delivered a busier market in recent weeks, with renewed motivation and confidence from both buyers and sellers alike.”

Source: PrimeResi

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Generative AI in the building material industry

Cemex and Microsoft take the lead in Generative AI in the building material industry

 

Cemex has developed the first generative artificial intelligence (AI) tool of its kind in the building material industry, transforming how the salesforce interacts with clients by providing real-time support for a superior customer experience.

This tool is an advanced knowledge assistant using Microsoft’s artificial intelligence and trained with Cemex’s product information and expertise in construction regulations. Built on a robust data management system, it offers tailored solutions to diverse project requirements while providing accurate information about expected behaviours and needs.

“Digital transformation is a top priority at Cemex, as we are continually looking for new digital solutions to innovate and drive more efficient, sustainable, and safer construction projects for our customers”, said Fernando A. González, CEO of Cemex. “We strongly believe that Generative AI serves as a key differentiator in our business, giving customers a unique experience and memorable experience that embodies our company’s identity.”

This tool was built by Cemex’s Data Science team and the scale of Azure OpenAI Service. Deployed through Microsoft Teams, it is easily accessible from any internet-enabled device, ensuring replicability across all of Cemex’s global operations.

This project is part of Cemex’s Digital Forward initiative, which encompasses the company’s digital innovation efforts in its commercial offering, supply chain, back-office processes, and manufacturing. Through digital innovation, Cemex evolves to meet its customer’s needs, makes its processes more efficient, provides a superior experience for its workforce, and supports the company’s aggressive decarbonisation roadmap.

 

Source: World Cement

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As inflation Falls Hopes Rise for Construction and we head to July 4th

Just annouced Rishi Sunak announces

the election date, July 4th

Inflation has fallen in the UK to its lowest level in almost three years.

The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) rose by 2.3% in the year to April 2024, according to the Office for National Statistics.

This was compared to a rise of 3.2% in the 12 months to March 2024.

Falling gas and electricity prices resulted in the largest downward contributions, partly offsetting rises in motor fuels.

Core CPI — excluding energy, food, alcohol and tobacco — rose by 3.9% in the year to April 2024.

This was down from 4.2% registered in the 12 months to March 2024.

Neil Rudge, head of enterprise at Shawbrook, said the latest fall in inflation rate will be met with renewed positivity by the UK’s business community.

“With first quarter GDP and real income figures returning to growth, along with the recent FTSE boom, the UK’s economic outlook is looking primed for recovery,” said Neil.

“Furthermore, our own research has shown that businesses are feeling more confident now compared to last year, spelling positive news for times ahead.

“While there may be cause for a subtle celebration, and the recent uptick we’ve seen in funding enquiries indicates a renewed sense of optimism, businesses should continue to remain cautious and considered as we move through this period of recovery.”

Eliot Kaye, managing director at Puma Property Finance, added:

“Today’s news of slowing inflation and rising house prices should be a welcome tonic to developers after a tough period of uncertainty around construction prices and end values. 

“We hope that this will give renewed confidence to get Britain building back better — we are certainly ready to fund!”

More specifically, this latest fall in inflation has created optimism that the Bank of England may cut rates, as it is nearer to the central bank’s inflation target of 2%.

According to Daniel Austin, CEO and co-founder of ASK Partners, this could force a rate cut as early as June.

“This potential rate cut is a crucial development, as lower interest rates typically reduce the cost of borrowing,” said Daniel.

“In anticipation of this move, we have already seen major high-street lenders make cuts to mortgage rates.

“This proactive step will start making life somewhat easier for borrowers by lowering monthly payments and reducing overall interest expenses.”

 

Source: Development Finance Today

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The Dizzying Potential of Galvorn

Scientists discover ‘magical’ material that’s stronger than steel and lighter than aluminum — and its potential is dizzying

Galvorn is the result of a more than $20 million investment from the U.S. Air Force, NASA, and others.

Galvorn is stronger than steel, lighter than aluminum, and has the conductivity of copper, according to an article on LinkedIn. While the jury is still out on whether it’s faster than a speeding bullet, experts at Houston-based DexMat suggest their product can revolutionize the green tech landscape.

Galvorn can be an alternative to rare and expensive copper — a crucial metal in electronics, according to a report from GreenBiz. What’s more, the inventors plan to displace dirty materials, contribute to cleaner air, and advance green tech as their “magical” material is rolled out.

Galvorn is the result of a more than $20 million investment from two U.S. Air Force research agencies, the Department of Energy, and NASA, among other tech heavy hitters, GreenBiz reports.

“DexMat’s potential climate impact gets us dizzy,” investor Shomik Dutta, managing partner at Overture Climate VC, told GreenBiz as part of a gushing review.

Galvorn is made as tape, yarn, thread, or mesh, among other forms. Its makers said that J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Lord of the Rings” was an inspiration in the process, though, at first glance, you wouldn’t think it can stand up to Orc blades.

“[A] skilled elven smith by the name of Eöl creates a new type of metal called galvorn that is described as being thin and flexible, yet also strong enough to serve as armor,” DexMat shared on the company’s blog, describing how the creators came up with the name.

While not made in an elf’s forge, the real-life version of Galvorn comes from an equally impressive process. It’s a high-tech technique that includes splitting hydrocarbons, according to GreenBiz.

The impact for consumers will be felt in the application. Lighter and faster vehicles, lighter wind-turbine blades, and higher conductivity in batteries to improve renewable power storage are all advantages Galvorn is set to realize, GreenBiz reports. It is already being used to help de-ice plane wings.

Dutta noted in the GreenBiz article that putting Galvorn fibers in concrete and other materials could strengthen and provide longer life for buildings and infrastructure. The goal for DexMat is to make carbon-heavy resources like copper “obsolete.”

“The climate crisis, the clean energy transition, and the ‘electrify everything’ movement are driving a massive transformation of industries and infrastructure globally,” the website states.

DexMat touts a clean manufacturing process that uses electricity, which at times is powered by renewables. Since Galvorn is made from carbon, it locks the heat-trapping element “into long-term storage, where it can’t contribute to global warming,” the company claims.

“Of everything we have touched, this has the potential to have the most impact in the most places,” Dutta said to GreenBiz.

 

Source: TCD

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State of MMC delivery in social Housing


Modern methods of construction (MMC) use offsite manufacturing to construct good quality, sustainable homes. They are a crucial tool to meet increasing housing need. The NHF and Building Better have therefore jointly surveyed housing associations to understand how MMC is being used in the social housing sector.

 

The survey ran from June to December, 2023. 57 housing associations responded. Together, they are responsible for 45% of all homes delivered by housing associations. The organisational size, geography, and number of homes owned varied widely between respondents.

In 2022/23, respondents completed a total of 5,276 homes using MMC and started 6,667. The survey distinguished between MMC systems, revealing that nearly all completed homes used panelised assemblies (category 2) or panelised and non-structural assemblies (category 2 and 5). Volumetric construction (category 1) was used in just 7% of completions.

Another aim of the survey was to identify both the main barriers to MMC and the key benefits of it for housing associations. The results revealed that supplier vulnerability was seen as the biggest barrier to increasing the use of MMC. By contrast, procurement issues were not seen as the most significant barrier by any respondents.

This year, the survey asked about the main benefits of MMC for the first time. Environmental sustainability was the top or second top benefit for two thirds of respondents. The respondents identified the fact that MMC makes it easier to meet the Future Homes Standard as the second most significant advantage.

The survey results give us important insight into ongoing housing association appetite for offsite construction. They paint a positive picture of the number of MMC homes which could be built over the next 5 years. Together, the respondents are planning 30,591 MMC homes by 2028.

The survey revealed that for those respondents using MMC, 32% of their total developments used offsite construction. If this trend continues, the sector-wide appetite for MMC homes could be 107,000 by 2028.

Overall, the results show that there is already significant MMC use in the sector, and that there is great potential for increases over the next 5 years.

 

Source: National Housing Federation

 

 

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Revitalising Empty Properties

Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive, Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers Federation

 

Edinburgh, Scotland – Following the Scottish Government’s declaration of a national housing crisis, The Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) urgently calls on government and industry leaders to launch a comprehensive national retrofit plan. This strategy would harness the tens of thousands of vacant, sub-standard properties across Scotland, transforming them into energy-efficient homes and significantly alleviating the housing shortage and its environmental impact.

Commenting on the crisis, Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF, said,

“Revitalising these empty properties through a national retrofit strategy is not just about providing more homes; it’s a critical step towards addressing our dual crises of housing and climate change.

“By retrofitting these homes, we improve the energy efficiency of our national housing stock, reducing overall carbon emissions and moving Scotland closer to its net-zero targets.”

SNIPEF calls for a more efficient use of government resources and stresses the importance of leveraging the knowledge and expertise within the construction sector to tackle this crisis effectively.

“We call upon stakeholders from all sectors to unite in support of this initiative, which offers a sustainable and inclusive approach to housing and environmental policy,” Hodgson urges.

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ADSA Launches New Podcast

  

It’s good to talk! So says the Automatic Door Suppliers Association which has just launched its own podcast – Tech Talk.

 

The series will feature conversations on topical issues facing the industry and interviews with those who work in it.

 

The first episode focuses on changes to BS EN 16 005 – a standard that defines safety in use and test methods requirements for power operated pedestrian door sets. It teases out the main changes of the update and responsibilities that fall upon manufacturers and technicians.

 

The 10-minute discussion is hosted by ADSA MD Ken Price, in conversation with Technical Training Manager Darren Hyde and Head of Operations Fae Ellor.

 

The monthly podcast is available through Apple and Android streaming services and can also be accessed through the ADSA website and social media channels. ADSA members can also access episodes through its online Academy.

 

Tech Talk has been introduced as an extension to ADSA’s existing communication channels and its availability on public streaming channels is intended to make it more accessible to “people on the go”.

 

Said Ken:

“We felt that this was an ideal medium for many of our members, particularly technicians, who may be on the road travelling to different sites. Podcasts provide a bite-sized opportunity to raise awareness of key issues, in a way that can be informative and entertaining.

 

“People consume media in different ways and at different times – from their daily commute to when they are exercising. By producing Tech Talk as a podcast, we hope to highlight important issues, break them down and examine them in detail but in a way that is easy to access and provides a different take on a variety of subjects.”

 

It is planned that some episodes of Tech Talk will also be produced as video casts to incorporate visual requirements.

 

The first episode of Tech Talk can be accessed via this LINK and through streaming platforms.

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Old Railway Arches get a New Lease of Life

Stephen George + Partners (SGP) is delighted to see The Arch Company commence work on the transformation of four dilapidated railway arches on America Street, Southwark, into spaces for restaurants, cafés, bars, and other leisure businesses to thrive. As design architect for the scheme, SGP has drawn on both its technical expertise and strong track record working with historic buildings to create contemporary spaces, which nod to the industrial heritage of the arches.

The arches, located under a 19th century railway viaduct in a prime London location between Southwark Bridge Road and Great Guildford Street, will now undergo extensive renovation and revitalisation works that will include the re-lining of all arch spaces, new insulated floor slabs suitable for restaurant use, and glazed front infills. In restoring these arches, a key priority has been to meet relevant energy efficiency standards, with all four arches intended to achieve an EPC ‘B’ rating.

“At Stephen George + Partners we firmly believe that the adaptive re-use of former industrial buildings can play a significant role in the revitalisation of our urban centres and the redevelopment of these railway arches on America Street is a prime example of the transformative potential of these important assets,” says SGP Studio Director Alan Soper. “Located in an area undergoing significant renewal and encompassing the Low Line urban regeneration initiative, the America Street scheme will transform previously unloved arches into contemporary spaces for new leisure, food and drink and retail businesses. Their prime location and Arch Company’s investment will help to create a vibrant destination for the neighbourhood, while also supporting local businesses and the wider community.” 

SGP’s proposals for the alteration of the America Street arches have been carefully considered in a site-specific response, providing contemporary and adaptable arch spaces for prospective tenants. The specification of high-quality façade materials will restore a superior appearance to the elevations; while the design and style of the infills will create an on-brand aesthetic that will enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area and contribute to the Low Line regeneration initiative, which should be attractive to potential occupiers in the current marketplace.

Strategic Account Director, Santosh Patel, from Pick Everard said:

“This unique project will transform America Street’s historic railway arches into a vibrant cultural hub. By converting these once disused spaces into bustling restaurants, cafés, and bars, we are not just revitalising the arches but fostering a community and destination that supports local business and community. Our teams have worked closely with the client and architectural team on investigation works of the existing site, to allow efficient structural and drainage solutions to be designed. Our building services team have also coordinated with local electricity network providers to construct a new substation, to provide sufficient power to the new development, and have designed the necessary ventilation, power and lighting solutions for the new arch fitouts. We eagerly look forward to seeing the completion of this transformative project.”

SGP Principal Architectural Technologist, Josh White, comments:

 “The ultimate aim is for the street to be pedestrianised and so our design incorporates active frontages to increase the connection with the street. We have large glazed frontages along America Street and to firmly anchor the scheme within the local milieu and further enhance the streetscape, bifold doors can open up onto the street, while a space to the front of two of the units can be adapted for outside seating and planting to create an appealing aesthetic to the Low Line.”

Craig McWilliam, Chief Executive at The Arch Company, said:

“We’re investing £2.5m into these spaces to provide much-needed additional commercial space suitable for leisure use. Repurposing these arches is part of our ongoing programme to create fit-for-purpose spaces in which businesses can thrive.”

The America Street project is just one of over ten such projects for which SGP has been commissioned to develop designs. Two schemes have recently achieved planning consent in Manchester, whilst elsewhere in London Crucifix Lane and Witan Street are progressing on site. The latter is already on site and due to complete soon and comprises the refurbishment of six arches into high-specification commercial premises for light industrial use located just 16 minutes away from the City of London.

Alan Soper concludes:

“We are delighted to be working with The Arch Company on their ambitious programme, bringing these derelict arches back to life so that they can boost local employment and help local areas grow and prosper. America Street is perfectly located for leisure and retail businesses to thrive and it’s incredibly gratifying to see work commence on these arches. We very much look forward to seeing them fully renovated and back in productive use.”

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Revolutionising Tunnel Infrastructure with Robotic AI – video

Credit: Andrei Zota/ Costain

 

14 May 2024: A consortium of mechanical and civil engineering, and robotic automation industry leaders, including Tunnel Engineering Services (UK) Ltd (TES), i3D robotics (i3D), the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), Costain, and VVB Engineering, has developed the first robotic and AI solution set to revolutionise the installation of mechanical and civil services in tunnels.

 

Traditionally, installing these services in tunnels is hazardous, labour-intensive and time-consuming. The prototype Automated Tunnel Robotic Installation System (ATRIS) can autonomously select brackets, locate where they need to be mounted along a tunnel wall, and install them. In doing so, the automated solution can improve on-site health and safety by reducing the risks associated with manual labour at the tunnel work face, for example, working at height in confined spaces, and hand-arm vibration experienced by workers during installation.

 

Once fully-developed, the final system can be deployed in tunnel construction for a variety of sectors including transport, water and energy. It is expected to increase productivity by 40% due to faster installation, reduce installation costs for new mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems by 30%, and cut construction plant movements by 40% to decrease embodied carbon.

 

The 22-month project, partly funded by Innovate UK’s Smart grant, was led by TES, which developed the initial concept in partnership with the consortium. Leveraging its expertise in robotics and automation, MTC spearheaded the design and manufacture of the robot’s end effectors.  i3D developed crucial visualisation software for precise navigation, whilst Costain and VVB provided industry knowledge and expertise in tunnelling and fit-out requirements.

 

 

Alan Worsley, Design and Project Manager at Tunnel Engineering Services (UK) Ltd said: “TES has over many years designed and manufactured Mechanised Tunnelling Machines and special purpose equipment for the construction industry. Over this time, innovation has been at the forefront of our business, and the need for automation in traditionally manual M&E fit-out techniques has led us to develop ATRIS and make it commercially viable for the market. We believe the system can offer a safer, more cost-effective and sustainable solution for future infrastructure projects.”

 

Steve Nesbitt, Chief Technologist for the Built Environment at MTC, said: “Like many sectors, construction has faced labour challenges over the past few years which has driven greater interest in using robots, beyond manufacturing and logistics, to address these issues. By contributing our expertise to this project, we are paving the way for construction companies to adopt technology for greater control and structuring of on-site works, making infrastructure delivery safer, more productive, and more sustainable.”

 

Dr Jon Storey, Lead Engineer at i3D, said: “Developing an automated system to install infrastructure in tunnels has been a long-standing ambition for the construction sector. ATRIS has moved us significantly closer to that goal. The use of stereo vision with machine learning and robotics to place bolts precisely on a curved surface is an unprecedented achievement, with potential applications beyond the construction sector, such as nuclear decommissioning and defence.”

 

Lee Bateson, Mechanical and Engineering Manager and Robotics Lead at Costain, said: “Teaching the robots to learn seemingly simple tasks – such as how to avoid cross-threading the screws that go into the sockets – has been hugely fulfilling, thanks to the consortium’s collaborative spirit. Whether it’s carbon reduction, increasing productivity or improving workforce health and safety, this is transformative technology that will have enormous benefits for the customers that we build tunnels for.”

 

Nicholas Beedle, Group Operations Director at VVB Engineering, said: “Tunnel works historically are expensive to build and maintain, and in the higher risk bracket for safety during construction and operation. It is important that ongoing improvements are made to address both of these issues.  The development of the robotic AI solution is a step towards solving both of these industry challenges.”

 

 

 

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