Leader of the Green Party to speak at energy 2015

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UK Construction Week is pleased to announce that Green Party leader Natalie Bennett is the latest name confirmed to speak at the inaugural Energy 2015 event this October.

Speaking alongside Adam Chase – Director of E4tech (UK) Ltd, Stephen Joseph – Chief Executive at Campaign for Better Transport and Claire Haigh – Chief Executive Officer at Greener Journeys, Natalie will discuss the future of sustainable transport at 12:00pm on 7th October at the Energy Hub. Exploring the social, economic and environmental considerations of greener transport, Natalie will bring significant knowledge and experience to the discussion, providing a high-level insight to a politically charged and timely topic.

Natalie commented: “It is important to provide consistent, predictable, long-term support for the development of the construction industry and in particular the uptake of greener and more environmentally friendly methods of building and retrofitting. Of all the components of the construction supply chain, transport has one of the greatest potentials to offer significant savings and improved performance if we invest in the right initiatives.”

Richard Morey, Group Events Director at Media 10, the event company producing UK Construction Week, commented: “We are thrilled to have such an influential political figure as Natalie Bennett speaking at this year’s UK Construction Week. The seminar content at the show will be right at the cutting edge of political debate about the construction industry and will provide an inclusive environment for high level discussions that will have real influence on the way we trade, build, learn and live.”

Natalie has been the elected leader of the Green Party since September 2012, previous to which she was the Coordinator of Camden Greens and founding chair of the Green Party Women’s Group. Born in Sydney, Australia, Natalie has lived in London since 1999 and originally began her career as a journalist, working for several national titles. Natalie has worked on a wide variety of policies for the Green Party and, with a degree in agricultural science, is the only political leader in the country with a scientific background.

In addition to Natalie’s contribution Energy 2015 will be supported by an extensive seminar programme of debates, practical workshops and panel discussions. Drawing on the knowledge of the show’s event partners, such as the British Photovoltaic Association (BPVA), the content schedule will cover key industry topics including securing investment, renewable technology, energy storage and energy efficiency.

Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 6 – 11 October (with the trade only days from 6 – 8 October), UK Construction Week will be the biggest construction trade event the UK has seen in years. Bringing together nine shows under one roof, the event will unite 1,000 exhibitors with more than 55,000 visitors.

As well as Energy 2015, visitors will be able to attend the Build Show incorporating Civils Expo, Timber Expo, HVAC 2015, Surface & Materials Show, Kitchens & Bathrooms Live, Plant & Machinery Live, Smart Buildings 2015 and Grand Designs Live.

For more information please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com or follow @UK_CW on Twitter.

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Industry calls for real steps towards Northern powerhouse

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The extension of devolution deals to Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield and the Midlands announced by Chancellor George Osborne have been given a mixed reception by industry figures, according to UK Construction Week.

Reacting to the plans to extend the ‘Northern Powerhouse’ concept, which includes the creation of a new Greater Manchester Land Commission, several industry commentators have welcomed the increased power over planning this will bring, while others have pointed to challenges in transport infrastructure that must be addressed.

Mark Clare, CEO of Barratt Developments and member of the UK Construction Week advisory panel, commented: “Although the details are still to be released, the appointment of a new land commission for Greater Manchester certainly seems to be a positive development that should provide a significant boost for construction companies in the area. It seems that the commission will be tasked with identifying publicly-owned and brownfield land that can be developed for housing – which is an important step towards tackling the estimated 10,000 new homes a year needed to support Greater Manchester’s growing economy and communities.”

Andi Hodgson, Marketing Director at UK Construction Week Exhibitor Hope Construction Materials, commented: “Operating and servicing a national customer base and network of operational sites, over 100 of which are located in central and northern England, the news of greater devolution to extend the ‘Northern Powerhouse’ is welcome. On the surface the move seems as though it should provide a significant boost to construction in those regions, however the greater activity – particularly that of moving bulk and heavy-side building materials like concrete, aggregate and cement – will put a strain on existing transport infrastructure if it’s not improved.”

Andrew Orriss, Head Of Business Development at UK Construction Week exhibitor SIG Insulation, whose national head office is based in Sheffield, commented: “It’s an exciting time for construction in the north of England and Sheffield in particular is booming, with planned developments across the region and the recent announcement of a £480 million plan to develop the city centre. The extra boost this investment will bring to the area cannot be understated but it needs to be supported by a similar level of investment in transport and infrastructure, to ensure maximum benefits are felt.”

This sentiment echoes warnings from some commentators that without a major overhaul of transport infrastructure the economic benefits in the north will be lessened. In particular, Tony Lloyd, Greater Manchester’s interim mayor, has called for transparency on planned rail improvements that are “key to the delivery of northern economic growth.”

For example, further clarity is required on the proposed electrification of the TransPennine Express railway line linking Manchester, Leeds and York, which was put on hold with no expected completion date back in June 2015. What’s more, the Chancellor’s proposed “Oyster style ticketing” across bus, tram, metro and rail services throughout the region has been met with derision from many quarters, with the Campaign for Better Transport (CBT) claiming that actual investment in the Northern Powerhouse rail infrastructure sits closer to £3 billion than the £13 billion claimed in the budget.

Amidst the calls for improvements to existing rail networks, the proposed HS3 line connecting Liverpool and Hull via Manchester and Leeds, remains a shadowy prospect – particularly given that the north east seems to have been excluded from the Chancellor’s devolution plans.

George Clarke, architect, TV-personality and UK Construction Week advisory panel member, himself originally from Sunderland, commented: “It’s disappointing that the north east is not yet being given the same opportunities for self determination as some other northern areas. There is huge potential for economic and construction growth if the main urban hubs in the north are properly connected. If we really are to create a true Northern Powerhouse this needs to be addressed as a priority and the crucial transport links from east to west need to be greatly improved.”

Veering away from the London-centric focus that has dominated the construction industry for many years, UK Construction Week – held at the Birmingham NEC in October – is placing a strong emphasis on driving construction growth throughout the UK. In the main seminar theatre, devolution is under the spotlight on the first day, with a dedicated session asking whether it is the key to stimulating public and private infrastructure developments. Transport will also be under scrutiny, as the keynote session in the Infrastructure Hub takes a look at the future of rail – asking whether, with HS2 well underway, the focus should now shift to HS3 and the powerhouse cities of the north.

Bringing together nine shows under one roof, UK Construction Week will be the biggest construction trade event the UK has seen in years. Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 6 – 11 October (with the trade only days from 6 – 8 October) the event will unite 1,000 exhibitors with an expected audience of 55,000 visitors.

Visitors will be able to attend Grand Designs Live, the Build Show (incorporating Civils Expo), Timber Expo, the Surface and Materials Show, Energy 2015, Kitchens & Bathroom Live, Plant & Machinery Live, HVAC 2015 and Smart Buildings 2015.

For more information please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com or follow @UK_CW on Twitter.

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The Build Show welcomes SIG Distribution

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SIG Distribution is the latest to lend its name to the list of leading industry lights exhibiting at the Build Show, part of UK Construction Week, this October.

As the UK’s leading specialist construction supplier, SIG Distribution’s 58 years of experience has given the company an unparalleled understanding of its customers and their unique demands. Backed by vast warehousing capabilities, 60 branches nationwide and a fleet of more than 500 specialist vehicles, SIG Distribution is committed to supplying more than 500,000 market-leading products in full and on time.

“Visitors to our stand will be able to find out about the full product offering across all our brands including: SIG Insulation, SIG Interiors, SIG Technical Insulation, SIG Fixings, SIG Construction Accessories and SIG Commercial Drainage, as well as getting face-to-face advice from our team of industry experts,” said Andy Holmes, Commercial Director from SIG Distribution.

“As part of UK Construction Week, the Build Show will bring together the whole building industry, it makes sense for anyone involved in the design, specification and construction of modern, energy efficient and truly sustainable buildings to be a part of it.”

With a comprehensive seminar programme across the show, running from 6 – 8 October, The Build Show offers a holistic view of the industry providing visitors with the latest views and opinions on the current challenges faced in construction today. Each session will respond to a hot topic: what is happening in the industry, how does this impact on winning work and how can businesses increase their profits accordingly.

Taking a coherent approach, the seminar programme is divided between two zones. The Homebuilding theatre will host debates, discussions and presentations with a keynote session about the state of UK house building. The Site Zone has its focus firmly set on a ‘Learn to Earn’ approach for contractors, offering an interactive approach with training, workshops and demonstrations covering the practical issues facing construction professionals in business today. There is also a Careers Centre in association with the House Builders Federation, a commercial vehicle test drive zone and a dedicated civil engineering section.

Bringing together nine shows under one roof, UK Construction Week will be the biggest construction trade event the UK has seen in years. Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 6 – 11 October (with the trade only days from 6 – 8 October) the event will unite 1,000 exhibitors with an expected audience of 55,000 visitors.

Visitors will be able to attend the Build Show (incorporating Civils Expo), Timber Expo, the Surface and Materials Show, Energy 2015, Kitchens & Bathrooms Live, Plant & Machinery Live, HVAC 2015, Smart Buildings 2015 and Grand Designs Live.

For more information please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com or follow @UK_CW on Twitter.

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HVAC 2015 unveils impressive seminar schedule

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Preparations are gaining momentum for the strongest trade event the building and construction industry has ever seen as Media 10, the UK’s biggest design and build event company, announces its comprehensive seminar programme for HVAC 2015, part of UK Construction Week.UKCON0615-BS-ARTICLE

Spanning the first three days of UK Construction Week, 6 – 8 October, HVAC 2015’s seminar schedule is packed with debates, workshops and panel discussions that focus on the key issues facing the HVAC industry today. With participation from some of the leading innovators, training providers and manufacturers, as well as the opportunity for visitors to join in, HVAC 2015 provides a valuable platform to engage with and learn from professionals at all levels.

The first day kicks off with an introductory guide to under-floor heating systems designed to help those looking to capitalise on the current increase in demand for more efficient heating solutions. The focus then moves to the future of refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pumps, as experts share their opinion on the direction technology and the industry as a whole is heading. The first day will also include a discussion about energy reduction strategies for commercial buildings.

Day two of HVAC 2015 will feature a detailed look at the best high-efficiency boilers available in the UK, as well as a practical session on how to future proof HVAC design. A more technical session will follow on the properties of air and how it can be influenced to obtain specific environment requirements.

The third and final day of seminar content will tackle the diversifying field of HVAC controls, with experts sharing tips on how to get the most out of control systems and what is set to become possible with controls in the near future. Energy efficiency in central heating systems will also be on the agenda.

Each of the three days will be concluded with a Meet the Installer networking session, designed to link main contractors and manufacturers with installers. These sessions will provide a valuable opportunity to generate new business and long-term partnerships, offering visitors maximum return on the time they invest attending the show.

Richard Morey, Group Events Director at Media 10, said: “We have worked really hard with our event partners to develop the seminar content for this year’s UK Construction Week and I’m confident that what we have come up with will meet the needs of today’s construction professionals.”

Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 6 – 11 October (with the trade only days from 6 – 8 October), UK Construction Week will be the biggest construction trade event the UK has seen in years. Bringing together nine shows under one roof, the event will unite 1,000 exhibitors with more than 55,000 visitors.

Visitors will be able to attend Grand Designs Live, the Build Show, Timber Expo, the Surface and Materials Show, Energy 2015, Kitchens & Bathroom Live, Plant & Machinery Live and Smart Buildings 2015, in addition to HVAC 2015.

For more information please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com or follow @UK_CW on Twitter.

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UK Construction Week unveils heavyweight main stage seminar programme

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Placing a firm emphasis on knowledge sharing, discussion and debate, UK Construction Week has revealed the seminar programme for the main stage of the event, which takes place at the Birmingham NEC in October.

The Seminar Theatre will deliver high-level insight into the key issues affecting the industry, during the three trade days (6 – 8 October) of the weeklong exhibition. Each seminar session will consist of an hour-long panel discussion, covering key topics such as house building, government policy and BIM.

The full programme has been announced on UK Construction Week’s newly updated website, which features in-depth sections for each of the nine shows that come under the event’s umbrella, as well as a host of visitor information, exhibitor details and the latest news from each of the shows.

Kicking proceedings off on the Tuesday morning, the keynote presentation will feature the newly appointed minister for construction, who will set out parliamentary plans and policies for the construction industry over the next electoral period – giving the incoming government an opportunity to clarify how it intends to support construction while in power.

The economy will also be under fire on day one, with sessions on protecting construction from economic weakness and improving the industry’s image among investors and policy makers. The sessions will feature high-level speakers from Glenigan, the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists and the Federation of Master Builders.

Skills will be the focus of the second day, with Marie-Clade Hemming from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association asking how construction can attract and retain the best talent, while Rupert Scott from TRADA will lead a thought provoking discussion on facing up to the construction industry skills shortage.

The final day will look at procurement and the supply chain, asking how different construction disciplines can work smarter together. Paul Bogle from the National Federation of Builders will also explore how contractors can make the most of the public procurement platform, as well as giving useful insight into the 2014 EU Directive regarding procurement models for public projects.

Rounding off the final day will be a dedicated session on the outlook for BIM in construction, which includes an update on the UK BIM Task Group, its progress in supporting BIM adoption and what the next steps will be – as well as useful advice on how SMEs can make the most of BIM.

Richard Morey, Group Events Director at Media 10, the event company producing UK Construction Week, commented: “From day one we have set out to create an informative and insightful programme of content, as we recognise that this is a key attraction for visitors and exhibitors alike. I think we’ve put together a line-up that reflects the needs and concerns of the industry today, which I hope will challenge and inspire participants in equal measure.”

Bringing together nine shows under one roof, UK Construction Week will be the biggest construction trade event the UK has seen in years. Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 6 – 11 October (with the trade only days from 6 – 8 October) the event will unite 1,000 exhibitors with an expected audience of 55,000 visitors.

Visitors will be able to attend Grand Designs Live, the Build Show, Timber Expo, the Surface and Materials Show, Energy 2015, Kitchens & Bathroom Live, Plant & Machinery Live, HVAC 2015 and Smart Buildings 2015.

For more information please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com or follow @UK_CW on Twitter.

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BRE joins UK Construction Week as content partner

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Welcoming one of the industry’s most well respected names, UK Construction Week is pleased to announce that BRE has joined as official content partner for the event.

Drawing on its significant expertise in every aspect of the built environment and associated industries, BRE (Building Research Establishment) is the leading voice for impartial research, testing and training within the construction industry. Its focus is on helping clients create better, safer and more sustainable products, buildings, communities and businesses, as well as supporting the innovation needed to achieve this.

In its role as content partner, BRE will provide invaluable support in shaping the direction of UK Construction Week, sharing its unique perspectives to develop an informative and highly insightful programme of seminar content.

With a strong emphasis on innovation, training and future construction trends, the seminar programme will provide a vital platform for sharing knowledge and exploring the key issues facing the industry. BRE’s wealth of specialist expertise will add real value to the conversation, with expert speakers joining a number of the debates, workshops and panel discussions.

In particular, BRE will take the lead in representing BIM content, including the most comprehensive BIM education programme ever seen in the UK plus seminar content across the whole event.

Miles Watkins, BRE’s Group Business Development Director commented: “Our key focus at BRE is on helping industry and government meet the challenges of the built environment. UK Construction Week is set to provide a unique chance to interact with professionals from all sectors, giving us a fantastic opportunity to engage, share best practice and help move the industry forward.”

Bringing together nine shows under one roof, UK Construction Week will be the biggest construction trade event the UK has seen in years. Taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 6 – 11 October (with the trade only days from 6 – 8 October) the event will unite 1,000 exhibitors with an expected audience of 55,000 visitors.

Visitors will be able to attend Grand Designs Live, the Build Show, Timber Expo, the Surface and Materials Show, Energy 2015, Kitchens & Bathroom Live, Plant & Machinery Live, HVAC 2015 and Smart Buildings 2015.

Richard Morey, Group Events Director at Media 10, the event company producing UK Construction Week, commented: “BRE’s ability to generate new knowledge plays a vital role in driving innovation within the built environment as well as helping government shape construction industry policy, so the considerable value and insight this will bring to our seminar programme cannot be overstated. We are delighted to welcome BRE on board as content partner for the show.”

For more information please visit www.ukconstructionweek.com or follow @UK_CW on Twitter.

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RCI show 2014

RCI Show 2014

The RCI show is taking place at the Ricoh arena in Coventry today and tomorrow. After many requests from members of the roofing, cladding and insulation industry the sector now has a fantastic platform, where exhibitors can show their new products/services and benefit from the RCI’s comprehensive marketing program.

Over 100 companies will be exhibiting throughout the course of today and tomorrow, which will mean that the show is bound to have something that is of interest to you.

Supported by SUG, NFRC and Waverley Communications, a solid foundation has been laid to ensure that the RCI Show can go from strength to strength for many years to come.

@BuildSpecifier will be visiting the show tomorrow and tweeting highlights from the event. Be sure to follow us to keep up to date.

To see a full list of exhibitors click here.

Published on 29/10/2014

Further reading

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Alutec to exhibit at the northern homebuilding and renovating show

Alutec to exhibit at the northern homebuilding and renovating show

At this year’s Northern Homebuilding and Renovating Show, taking place at the Harrogate International Centre from Friday 7th to Sunday 9th November, Alutec will be showcasing its full range of attractive and sustainable rainwater and eaves solutions on stand 140.

Those visiting on Saturday 8th November will also have the opportunity to listen to Michael Pritchett, Area Sales Manager at Alutec, explain the benefits that an aluminium system brings in his seminar ‘5 Reasons to use aluminium eaves systems’, starting at 11:30am.

Taking centre stage on the stand will be Alutec’s Tudor downpipe system, which is the ideal replacement for cast iron systems on listed and period style buildings. Available in 21 standard colours, including the uniquely textured Heritage Black polyester powder coating, the Tudor downpipe delivers a classic look without the associated extensive maintenance and installation costs.

Visitors will also be able to cast their eye over the popular Evoke fascia and soffit range has been manufactured to the highest standards of durability and reliability. Designed as the perfect alternative to PVC or sheet aluminium solutions, the Evoke fascia and soffit system comprises of a recycled polyethylene core with an aluminium outer skin, which offers a life expectancy of 50 years or more.

Also on display will be Alutec’s Evolve, Traditional and Aligator rainwater systems, which will be presented on the stand.

Tony Wereszczynski, Technical Director at Alutec, commented: “I’m confident that with our full range of rainwater and eaves solutions on show, every visitor to our stand will be able to find what they are looking for and will be inspired by the extensive product range.”

Manufactured from marine grade aluminium, all of Alutec’s rainwater systems offer particularly impressive whole life costing, as the material is so impervious to corrosion that very little maintenance is required. Aluminium is also extremely flexible, being 65 per cent lighter than cast iron, and has a life expectancy of 50 years or more. In addition to all this, aluminium is infinitely recyclable – making it a highly sustainable choice.

For more information please visit www.marleyalutec.co.uk

Further reading

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The Build Show welcomes the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists as event partner

The Build Show welcomes the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists as event partner

Bringing together contractors, specifiers and suppliers from across the construction industry, preparations for the Build Show are going from strength to strength with the recent addition of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) as event partner.

As the leading qualifying body for architectural technology, CIAT represents those practising and studying within the discipline, focusing on understanding design and turning design ideas into reality. CIAT will use its wealth of knowledge and resources to help develop the show’s skills-focused seminar content, demonstrations and training workshops, with an emphasis on buildability, durability and sustainability of construction.

CIAT members are often the link between architects and builders and contactors, bridging the gap between concept, innovation and reality. CIAT’s involvement in the Build Show will provide a unique opportunity to those attending the inaugural event to better understand the design process and how to create a space that is both buildable and functions well.

Adam Endacott, Media & PR Director at CIAT, commented: “We are delighted to be working with the organisers of the Build Show and supporting this new high profile exhibition. There has been a large gap in the market for an event of this kind and I am hopeful that the Build Show will be a beneficial example of collaborative working in the built environment sector. There is a wealth of knowledge that visitors to the show can tap into and we look forward to contributing our part into the event’s programme.”

Paul Godwin, Managing Director of the Build Show, said “CIAT plays a vital role within the construction industry, ensuring that buildings are sustainable, perform to the highest standards and continue to do so into the future. Its expertise will be critical in the development of our seminar programme by providing cutting edge insight into the most relevant new technologies and best practice on how to incorporate them into modern buildings.”

“Perhaps more importantly, CIAT will provide a pragmatic link between those that design buildings and the people and organisations that bring them to reality.”

Celebrating its 50th year in 2015, CIAT was founded after the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) called for an institute to be set up for architectural technicians. CIAT upholds and advances the standards of education, competence and practise within its sector and will provide a valuable source of information and guidance to those attending the Build Show next year.

The Build Show will take place at the Birmingham NEC from Tuesday 27th to Thursday 29th October 2015, and will bring together contractors, specifiers, builders, suppliers, housebuilders, architectural technologists and clients, to network, showcase new products and discover opportunities for professional development.

Other event partners developing the show’s seminar schedule include, the Federation of Master Builders, Glenigan, the Construction Products Association, the National Federation of Builders, the National House Building Council and the Construction Industry Training Board.

Some of the exhibitors already signed up include, VEKA, Festool, VW, Marmox, Kingspan and many more.

For more information about exhibiting at or attending the Build Show, please visit www.buildshow.co.uk

Further reading

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Timber Expo 2014 – Less Than Two Weeks to Go!

Timber Expo 2014 – Less Than Two Weeks to Go!

On the 07 & 08 October 2014 at the NEC, Birmingham, the UK’s leading timber event will be in full swing. Timber Expo promises two days brimming with the latest products, innovations and developments across the sector – not just from the UK but from an increasingly exciting and diverse international market. Pre-register free to attend at: www.timber-expo.co.uk/book

Timber Expo

Here are just a few essential reasons why you cannot afford to miss out…

  • Major Exhibition and International Content
    Timber Expo will provide a forum for new business and a demonstration of how timber can deliver an effective, more attractive, innovative and sustainable built environment. Nearly 200 exhibitors will be unveiling their latest products and services.
  • Timber Focus Seminars
    At the heart of Timber Expo is the most comprehensive and in-depth seminar programme covering the timber sector. Learn first-hand from industry experts. Over 50 high calibre speakers will speak in eight key sessions on future trends and niche areas of the industry.
  • Toolbox Talks Workshops
    This in-depth programme of free ‘hands on’ seminars and workshops is dedicated to timber technology and runs across both days of the show, focusing on the details behind many of the processes, technologies and solutions on display from our wide range of exhibitors.
  • Timber Buyers and Specifiers Forum
    This co-located event within Timber Expo has been a successful and dynamic part of the show since Timber Expo’s inception. The Forum offers the opportunity to network with industry innovators and leaders within the timber sector to form key associations and potential partnerships through structured 30 minute appointments.
  • Creative Installations
    Be inspired by and explore the possibilities of timber through a range of features including Hanson Plywoods ‘Fingers Crossed’ structure, Price and Myers ‘Slipstream’ Sculpture, Eco Curves ‘Tornado’ and many more!

Can you afford to miss out? Register for free tickets at: www.timber-expo.co.uk/book

Further reading

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