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Charcon Strengthens Specification and Sales Teams

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has strengthened its service offering with three new appointments across its specification and sales teams.

Andy Johnston joins Charcon as its new Specification Manager. An experienced key accounts manager, Andy brings with him a wealth of experience from the architect and designer sectors. Reporting to the National Specification Manager, Clinton Young, Andy will be responsible for managing existing clients and developing new relationships with architects, specifiers and local authorities in the Midlands and East regions.

Commenting on his new appointment, Andrew says: “Commercial landscaping is a fascinating industry and one which I am proud to now be a part of. Interpreting and understanding our clients’ design intent is at the core of my approach to ensure delivery of tailored and successful projects, time after time.

“It was an easy decision to join the team and the extended Aggregate Industries family. I view Charcon as a progressive and innovative company, with much to offer the landscaping sector. My personal mission is to inform the existing and up and coming architects of the future, who will be shaping our landscapes for decades to come, on the full array of what Charcon has to offer.”

In addition to Andy’s appointment and in response to growing business opportunities in the North and South Central areas, Charcon has also bolstered its sales team by recruiting two Territory Sales Managers.

Luke Walker will be covering the Northern regions. With over 10 years’ experience working in various roles, Luke has developed an extensive knowledge of the market, as well as excellent commercial relationships with key contacts, and is looking forward to the fresh challenge of working for a manufacturer. Michael Drew will be responsible for the South Central region.

Mark Barter, Sales Director for Charcon, comments: “We are delighted with the calibre of new blood joining our business and the insights and experience they collectively bring to Charcon. On the back of Patricia Madingou and Robert Davenhall joining us in February and November respectively, this is our third new specification manager within the past six months and our sales forces has grown significantly.

“By investing in our people, we now have a robust team of specification and territory sales managers operating across the UK, reflecting our commitment to offer a more dedicated and personal service to our clients.”

Charcon offers the commercial sector a comprehensive range of paving, natural stone, kerbing and drainage via its hard landscaping product range. It is also able to offer a full design and support service from project concept to completion, and provides innovative and integrated solutions for architects, civil engineers, landscape professionals, house builders and contractors in almost every aspect of the construction industry.

To find out more, visit www.charcon.com.
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New Pocket Commercial Landscaping Directory from Charcon

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has published its 2017 trade directory in a new, handy 49-page pocket-sized, spiral-bound format for complete ease of use.

The pocket guide is filled with all the technical information that customers would need to know about the Charcon range and serves as a valuable reference tool for architects, specifiers, contractors, sub-contractors and merchants alike.

It covers the complete breadth of Charcon’s commercial landscaping range and includes sections on natural stone, flag paving, block paving, kerbs and water surface solutions. Whilst each section is marked with a coloured divider, allowing the user to flip easily to the product category required, each page accommodates a sliding scale of product data, offering a quick reference to alternative products where required.

Easily recognisable symbols accompany each page to clearly highlight key product features, indicating for example whether a product is BIM-enabled, durable, sustainable, ethically traded, BES 6001 accredited, etc.

The directory is designed to work in conjunction with Charcon’s more in-depth 123-page A4 landscape commercial landscaping portfolio, cross-referencing to relevant pages which feature case studies and a wider selection of imagery which together showcase the products in application.

Mike Davies, Sector Manager for Charcon, comments “The Charcon product range provides all the necessary materials to furnish a hard landscaping scheme, from large public realm projects to educational and health facilities. It is therefore vital that we provide our customers and stockists with clear and concise product literature.

“We trust that our new pocket directory will guide customers to the best products for the application in question, as well as any complementary products, such as stepped units or bespoke items, that will enhance the project.”

To request a copy of the 2017 Charcon commercial landscaping directory or portfolio, please contact 01335 372 222 or email landscaping@aggregate.com. To browse the Charcon range of products online, visit www.charcon.com.
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Charcon’s new Infilta permeable block paving offers improved visual appeal

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has enhanced its successful Infilta permeable block paving range by incorporating a new design element.

The new Infilta range now features nibs that end 13mm short of the face of the block. The result is a totally unique block paving solution that does not compromise interlocking performance and offers enhanced aesthetic appeal with the unsightly nibs being hidden from view when laid.

Not only is Infilta more appealing from a design perspective, it is a totally unique permeable paving solution that does not compromise on water drainage performance, enabling water to drain away through the gaps. Incredibly hardwearing, it offers excellent durability and grip which makes it perfectly equipped for all trafficked applications including car parks, retail areas and other heavy-use commercial locations such as HGV loading areas.

This new stylish offering is available in four different variations: Ecopave Textured, Andover Washed, Andover Textured and StoneMaster. Designers can also choose from a range of textures and colour options to complement their project, such as Grey Fleck, Pink Granite, Sandy Buff and Rustic.

Mike Davies, Category Manager for Charcon, comments: “Not only do the new straight edges provide a much cleaner and contemporary finish, they significantly enhance the design options available as architects and specifiers can now opt to have have Infilta laid alongside and in combination with a vast range of standard paving. Not only that, Infilta is part of our Life® range of products which makes it the ideal choice for sustainable specification.”

For further information, please visit www.charcon.com or call 01335 372222.
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Charcon further strengthens specification team

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has welcomed Patricia Madingou to the role of Specification Manager. This appointment is the latest in a succession of new roles which Charcon has invested in with a view to enhance relationships with key customers and explore new business leads nationwide.

Patricia will be covering the area south-east of the M25, a recognised hot spot for building and construction. Despite tough economic conditions, the construction industry is in growth – particularly within the South East. A recent report from Barbour ABI revealed that construction within this region had the fastest growth rate (13.2%) within the UK in 2014. In 2015, the value of contracts awarded in the region totalled £7.3 billion, an increase of 46.9% year on year.

Charcon’s decision to appoint a dedicated specification manager in this area will enable the business to explore this untapped potential, advising key decision makers on the best commercial hard landscaping products for their relevant projects and applications.

Patricia brings a wealth of experience to Charcon, having previously worked for three years as a sales manager for Bradstone International, Aggregate Industries’ export and licensing service for its precast concrete products.

With Patricia’s role in play, Charcon now has a force of seven industry experts strategically positioned across the UK to develop new relationships with architects, specifiers and local authorities, focussing particularly on the recognised growth areas of natural stone and permeable paving.

Commenting on joining the Charcon team, Patricia says “By having a dedicated specification manager within the South East, my appointment will enable the business to provide an enhanced level of service to existing customers, as well as reach out to new prospects.

“Charcon has a merited reputation for developing bespoke solutions for its clients, no matter how complex. I am looking forward to working alongside a team that has this can-do attitude, as well as the experience and insight to back it up.”

Clinton Young, National Specification Manager at Charcon, adds “We are very pleased to have Patricia within the specification team and she joins us at an exciting time. With the Chancellor announcing major investments in housing infrastructure, roads and local transport in his Autumn Statement[2], we anticipate a surge of products entering design stage. With Patricia’s sector experience we will be well placed in the South East to meet this demand.”

Charcon offers the commercial sector a comprehensive range of paving, natural stone and kerbing via its hard landscaping product range. It is also able to offer a full design and support service from project concept to completion, and provides innovative and integrated solutions for architects, civil engineers, landscape professionals, house builders and contractors in almost every aspect of the construction industry.

To find out more, visit www.charcon.com.
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Charcon appoints new Specification Manager

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has appointed Robert Davenhall to the role of Specification Manager.

Robert has a wealth of experience within the commercial hard landscaping sector, having worked for the past five years at Kilsaran International and previously with Tobermore Concrete.

In his new role, Robert will be responsible for managing existing clients and developing new relationships with architects, specifiers and local authorities in the North-West region and M62 corridor. He’ll also be focused on growing Charcon’s natural stone and permeable paving business with local authorities in the region.

Commenting on his new appointment, Robert says: “I am extremely excited to be joining a growing and ambitious specification team at Charcon and becoming part of the global market leader in the building materials industry.

“There’s a whole new generation of architects and specifiers coming into the sector. They’re incredibly switched on, understand the full capabilities of hard landscaping and are looking for specialist partners to service their needs. The range of products Charcon can offer, in both natural stone and concrete, is one of the most comprehensive in the marketplace and offers a fantastic choice for architects, local authorities and contractors alike.”

Mark Barter, Sales Director at Charcon, comments: “We are thrilled to welcome Robert to the team. Almost a life-long local, he knows the patch inside out, as well as the dynamics of the sectors within it. We’re also looking forward to benefitting from his relationship management experience across all of our target audiences, which he has in abundance.”

Charcon offers the commercial sector a comprehensive range of paving, natural stone and kerbing via its hard landscaping product range. It is also able to offer a full design and support service from project concept to completion, and provides innovative and integrated solutions for architects, civil engineers, landscape professionals, house builders and contractors in almost every aspect of the construction industry.

To find out more, visit www.charcon.com.
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Charcon Construction Solutions supplies new Adventure Centre in Derbyshire

Precast concrete products manufacturer, Charcon Construction Solutions, part of the Aggregate Industries group, has successfully supplied and installed structural precast concrete materials for the new, state-of-the-art Mount Cook Adventure Centre in Derbyshire.

Set in five acres of grounds, the centre can accommodate 130 guests and includes wheelchair accessible facilities. The eco-building uses solar power to generate hot water and electricity, rainwater collection to flush toilets and air source heat to warm the rooms.

Charcon Constructions Solutions was awarded the contract by Novus, the appointed main contractor, to help deliver the flooring and stairs for the build; a complex hexagonal central core design with two rectangular wings.

Novus specified Charcon Construction Solutions’ bespoke Block and Beam flooring system, composed of pre-stressed concrete beams with standard concrete infill blocks laid in between, for the complicated central core area on the ground floor.

Charcon’s pre-stressed Hollowcore flooring slabs, which range from 150mm to 400mm and achieve a rapid strength of over 60N, at only 28 days, were then used to floor the building’s rectangular wings. A heavy density Hollowcore sound slab was used on the first floor and roof level to effectively meet sound regulations. Two pre-cast staircases, ground to upper floor levels, manufactured using custom built moulds, were also supplied and installed.

Richard Baldry, General Manager for Charcon Construction Solutions, comments: “Due to the complexity of the building’s design, we needed to value engineer a solution that would fast track construction and allow immediate access to following trades.

“Using our precast Block and Beam and Hollowcore flooring systems meant there was no need to wait for concrete slabs to cure. Once grouted, floors formed a ready-to-work base for follow on trades. Additionally, Hollowcore is very easy to transport and handle during construction, and requires less material to manufacture compared to solid concrete slabs. This thereby reduces carbon emissions. Both solutions provide an immediate solid floor surface able to accommodate service pipes and electrical wiring, as well as suspended ceilings. Providing stairs, manufactured offsite, also ensured a cost and time effective alternative to traditional timber built staircases.”

In addition to supplying quality offsite manufactured precast products, Charcon Construction Solutions offered a fully integrated solution on the project, providing Novus direct access to its design and planning expertise.

Dean Povey, Commercial Manager at Novus Solutions, comments: “Charcon Construction Solutions carried out a difficult project in a difficult location under extreme weather conditions and on budget, a job well done.”

The Mount Cook Adventure Centre opened this summer. The centre is using local facilities to provide a range of adventure activities from rock climbing, kayaking and orienteering and will also offer an educational insight into the local history and mining heritage of the area.

For further information, visit www.charconcs.com.
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Charcon to Sponsor Prestigious Landscape Institute Awards

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, is proud to sponsor this year’s prestigious Landscape Institute Awards.

The annual awards, which take place in November, are designed to recognise examples of outstanding work by the landscape profession.

Charcon is sponsoring the Urban Design and Masterplanning category, which celebrates excellence in area based regeneration projects led by landscape architects.

Mark Barter, Sales Director at Charcon, comments: “As a major manufacturer and supplier of commercial hard landscaping materials, we are delighted to be supporting the Landscape Institute. The awards recognise the excellent work of landscape professionals at the very top of their game, especially those demonstrating a high level of commitment to sustainability.

“The calibre of entries is always incredibly high and we look forward to celebrating in the winner’s success on the night.”

Entrants in the Urban Design and Masterplanning category must demonstrate either one completed phase of a project or a strategy, development framework or master plan that is working towards or has achieved a planning status.

The awards ceremony will take place on Thursday 24th November. To find out more, visit www.landscapeinstitute.co.uk/awards.

For further information about Charcon range of products, visit www.charcon.com or call 01335 372 222.
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Charcon Materials used in London’s best new place to live

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has collaborated on a top London residential project, Trafalgar Place in Elephant & Castle, which is being hailed by The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson MP for design innovation and longevity.

The project, part of a wider £1.5 billion, 28 acre regeneration scheme to upgrade and reconnect Elephant & Castle with the mostly derelict Heygate Estate, saw an office block converted into a development of 235 homes.

With a brief to create a quality urban residential space, Charcon was consulted to recommend approximately 3,500m2 of hard landscaping options that would establish a strong relationship between the green spaces of both the private communal and public areas, to the adjacent buildings and edges.

1,840m2 of Charcon’s Andover Textured flag and block paving in Midnight Grey, Silver Grey and Light Grey was supplied, offering a premium quality block paving product at an affordable price. Pairing the unique three colour blend with five different block sizes specified Andover Textured offers an eye-catching design solution that runs throughout all of the main tree-lined avenues of the scheme.

1,050m2 of premium Appalachian flag paving in Leemoor Ground was used for an upper private courtyard podium. Incorporating up to 60% recycled and reclaimed materials, the uniquely formulated granite aggregates offer exceptional performance and durability.

Charcon’s technical specialists also created a bespoke product for the project, producing 250m2 of ‘Special’ Appalachian Leemoor. Using a double process prior to sandblasting to expose a greater amount of aggregate, the end product was a unique polished and sandblasted finish which, when laid alongside the Leemoor Ground, created a distinctive contrast of textures within the private courtyard.

In addition, 100 linear metres of hard wearing Natural Granite kerbs and radii in Silver Grey were incorporated to create features throughout the scheme, and 240m2 of Europa block paving in Brindle was the ideal solution for the heavy-use pedestrianised areas.

Together with the buildings, planting and communal space, Trafalgar Place has been praised within the industry as an example of exemplary design, scooping prestigious awards such as The Mayor’s Award for Planning Excellence and Best New Place to Live, both at the London Planning Awards 2016.

Architects dRMM worked with landscape architect Grant Associates to create the regeneration masterplan. The project was managed by developer Lend Lease and leading landscape architecture company Randle Siddeley was invited to complete the detailed landscape design.

Sharon Chan, Project Landscape Architect at Randle Siddeley, comments: “Peter Brown from Charcon was very professional and extremely efficient in providing us with technical information we needed during both the design stage and construction stage. Andover and Leemoor are cost effective products that meet the planning requirements but do not compromise the aesthetics of the landscape scheme.”

Mike Davies, Specification and Major Projects Manager at Charcon, said: “This has been a fascinating project to watch evolve and we’re very proud to have played a role in what has become a flagship for urban regeneration in London. Our goal is to provide innovative solutions using the highest quality and most sustainable materials across every aspect of the construction industry, and these credentials married perfectly with Randle Siddeley’s vision for the development.”

More information is available on www.charcon.com.

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Charcon launches enhanced Safeticurb linear drainage system

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping product range from Aggregate Industries, has relaunched its linear drainage system, Safeticurb, with an enhanced design for improved performance. The updated product is now available as a single piece unit for ease of installation and benefits from a smoother bore for improved hydraulic flow.

The long established system substantially reduces the need for expensive underground pipework. Suitable for all hard landscaped surfaces, and also for heavier duty options such as industrial sites, Safeticurb features a subtle cross-fall to direct surface water towards the drainage entrances for hard landscaped areas and roadways.

It is suited to car parks, pedestrianised areas, public highways, heavy duty industrial sites and airport taxiways, and is designed for use with block paving and British Standard kerb. Both slot and grid options are available.

Safeticurb is tested in accordance with European Standard BS EN 1433 and loading standard conforms up to Class F, dependent upon type selected.

Mike Davies, specifications and major projects manager for Aggregate Industries, comments “Safeticurb is a well proven linear drainage system that offers substantial cost savings in comparison to alternative traditional pipe and gulley systems.

“The aim is to ensure prompt and cost-effective removal of surface water during and immediately after rainfall. Optimum balance of cost efficiency and performance is achieved by parallel drainage runs at 30-35mm intervals across the drainage area.

“The improvements we’ve made to the design of Safeticurb will reduce installation time and costs, and improve the rate at which water can drain away.”
With correct design and installation, ongoing maintenance needs should be minimal.

For further information, including technical data sheets, visit www.aggregate.com/safeticurb. For technical support, please call 01335 372222.

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A sustainable approach puts Charcon top of the class at Manchester Metropolitan University

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping product range of Aggregate Industries, has successfully completed delivery of over 2,000 tonnes of landscaping materials to Manchester Metropolitan University’s new £140 million sustainable campus in Hulme.

Materials including 7,501m² of EcoPave, 4,521lm of Eco Countryside Kerb, 896lm of wide top Eco Countryside Kerb units and 398 EcoPave step units have been supplied alongside 1,051m² of Charcon premium Andover Textured flag and block paving. The products, which were specified due to their sustainable qualities and unique range of shading, provided optimum design flexibility and strong visual appeal.

The use of Charcon’s Eco range helped Manchester Met to meet the project’s sustainability targets. With the new student accommodation being amongst the most sustainable buildings in the UK, Aggregate Industries’ Eco Countryside Kerb and EcoPave block paving were the perfect choice for the University.

EcoPave Textured contains up to 50 per cent recycled and reclaimed materials, while Eco Countryside Kerb is made with up to 82 per cent recycled and reclaimed material. Developed to maximise resource productivity, the products provide optimum use of finite resources by minimising waste and incorporating high proportions of non-primary materials.

The paving has been utilised to complement the external design of the teaching facilities and student accommodation, and blend in with campus surroundings.

In addition to providing materials, Aggregate Industries helped develop bespoke kerb angles and Eco units, providing on-site landscaping solutions. Contrasting Charcon step inserts were incorporated into the design to reduce the risk of slips and increase visibility.

Mike Davies, Specifications Manager at Aggregate Industries, said “The Birley Campus project has been an exciting one to work on and we are delighted our Charcon product range and expert advisory role on-site have been able to contribute to such a prestigious educational facility.

“The Eco range of paving and kerbing is highly sustainable and durable, meaning the University is environmentally friendly without having to compromise on quality or functionality.”
Manchester Met’s vision was to create “the most sustainable campus in the UK”. The new Birley Campus represents an exciting chapter in the ongoing regeneration of Hulme, and is breathing new life into a site earmarked for development since clearance in the 1990s.

The new campus opens up new paths of higher education to local people and is at the heart of the community for residents to benefit from the facilities, training and knowledge at hand. A brand new centre for teacher training and health facilities will educate up to 6,000 professionals for the region’s schools, hospitals, health and social services. Over 300 new jobs will be created and the local economy in Hulme and Moss Side will be boosted by £29 million.

To find out more about the Charcon range of products, visit www.aggregate.com.

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