Following the introduction of the Building Safety Act, which requires individuals to be competent to undertake their roles, CSCS is making changes to the Labourer and Trainees card from 1 February to “better align with the competency expectations of the Act” and encourage more new entrants to start on a ‘Red’ card with a recognised training pathway.
• Labourer card ‐ The initial validity will be reduced from five to two years and only operatives who continue in a labouring role will be able to renew their card for five years by providing evidence they are employed as a labourer. The accompanying CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test will also have its validity extended to three years so any operatives who do continue in a labouring role can use it to renew their card.
• Trainee card ‐ In order to provide a simplified route into the industry for new entrants with prior training, individuals who have attained an approved Level 2 (or above) occupation related non‐competence qualification will be eligible for a two‐year Trainee card. More information on the routes to a Trainee card can be found in this flowchart.
All CSCS cards obtained via Industry Accreditation have now expired and the CITB funding available to support individuals who require a qualification to move onto the appropriate card has been extended until 31 March 2026.
The CITB has survived another review. Findings of the Department for Education ITB Review, which was conducted by Mark Farmer in 2023 and finalised last year, have not supported calls to abolish the CITB.
The report stresses the vital need for the work of the Industrial Training Boards (ITBs) within the construction and engineering construction industries and concludes that the ITB levy-grant model should be retained. Indeed, it states that the role of the ITBs should be strengthened and calls on them to do more.
It reinforces that both the CITB and ECITB exist to meet the industries’ specialist skills needs. The ITBs are needed to address the market failure in training provision, driving up skill levels and incentivising training that would otherwise not take place.
The Minister of State for Skills, The Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern, supported many of the recommendations laid out in the report including that the ITB model should be retained.
Among the 17 strategic recommendations, the review proposes that the CITB and ECITB should form a single body. The Government’s position is that while there are significant benefits to greater alignment and collaboration between the two ITBs, there are currently no plans to legislate to create a single body. A steering group will be set up to consider implementation of all recommendations.
In the meantime, the Minister has requested greater collaboration between the CITB and ECITB on specific areas such as infrastructure across Great Britain, increasing trainers, clean energy jobs and skills passporting. Work is already underway to develop joint action in these areas.
Tim Balcon, CEO of CITB said: “Importantly, the report recognises the significant skills challenges facing the construction and engineering industries and the vital role that the ITBs play in helping address these. Further, it asserts that the best way of doing so is to retain the ITB model and industry-specific levies.
“Grant funding for apprenticeships and new entrants is vital, with more than two-thirds of apprenticeship starts in the construction industry being employed by companies of fewer than 50 employees.
“We are already well advanced in improving our engagement with employers and learners, such as the nationwide rollout of our Employer Networks and the significant improvements at our National Construction Colleges.
“Additionally, we’re addressing many of the areas identified within the report through our strategic plan. We are working with industry and all our partners to develop a training and skills system that works now and in the future. A system that supports industry in training its workforce and helps bring skilled and diverse workers into industry.
“We already work in close collaboration with ECITB on some key areas and we will expand this into a more formal collaboration where it offers value to the sector.
“We must move at pace to work together to tackle the joint needs of industry without the delay and disruption that legislative or structural changes would surely bring and that would inevitably be detrimental to industry success. We need to be laser-focused on addressing industry needs by providing standardised levels of competence, alternative routes into industry and making it easier and cheaper to access high-quality training.”
Andrew Hockey, CEO of the ECITB, said: “The report highlights the value that both the ECITB and CITB make to our respective industries. It cites the ECITB’s work on Connected Competence, our programmes to grow new entrants and our Regional Skills Hub initiative as good examples of what needs to be done, and what can be scaled up.
“We welcome closer collaboration with the CITB, particularly in the area of infrastructure skills where there is the most commonality between the ITBs’ respective footprints.
“As the review acknowledges, there is significant benefit in both ITBs collaborating more closely on infrastructure; nuclear new build being a clear example where workers in both civil construction and the engineering construction industry (ECI) work alongside each other.
“We are already working with the CITB and partners on strategic skills planning for Sizewell C with a view to developing whole-career training pathways and interventions that span both the civil and ECI phases of that project.
“Formalising this approach for nuclear and other key infrastructure projects – such as those centred around the decarbonisation of the UK’s industrial clusters – will be highly beneficial and should strengthen delivery and impact.
“We have started the process of scoping the recommendations and developing plans to implement them, which will involve consultation with industry and government. We are already addressing many of the structural skills challenges highlighted by the review and will further build upon these as we develop our new strategy, which will be published later this year.
“In the meantime, we will continue to deliver our mandate from industry to lead industry learning. This includes attracting new entrants, expanding the entry pathways into industry and supporting high-quality training provision.”
Last reviewed in 2017, the ITB review assessed the role and effectiveness of both the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The review results from a requirement, set by the Cabinet Office, for all public bodies to be reviewed periodically.
View the full report along with the Government’s response 2023 Industry Training Board (ITB) review
Bradford College, one of the biggest education and training providers in the region, has recently restored a five-storey mill. The £5.8m renovation transformed the building into a state-of-the-art higher education centre, enhancing Bradford College’s existing STEM science and digital facilities. The new building includes dentistry training facilities, a prep-room, six higher education digital IT labs, an ophthalmic dispensing suite and clinical suite.
CHALLENGE
At Bradford College, architectural team Bond Bryan Ltd and main contractors Tilbury Douglas faced the task of finding an interior ceiling solution that accommodated the building’s soffits, necessitating reduced suspension points.
They also needed a complete ceiling system that not only met the mandated acoustic standards for education environments but also offered aesthetic qualities conducive to productivity and comfort.
SOLUTION
Zentia, the UK’s market leader in complete ceiling solutions, collaborated with Bond Bryan Ltd to develop a solution that exceeded all project requirements.
A range of Zentia’s tiles, including Prestige, Sonify Baffles, Aruba, Oplia hA dB, and Arena, were specified. These tiles are installed on a DecoFrame SL2 grid to create a floated suspended ceiling, addressing both acoustic needs and reduced suspension points.
In the reception area, white rectangular Sonify Baffles were installed to create a feature ceiling that enhances the space’s acoustics. These hanging acoustic baffles provide creative freedom with the largest range of standard colours available in the UK market and deliver exceptional acoustic performance.
The Oplia hA dB tile features a smooth laminated finish with superior sound absorption and attenuation, ideal for workplaces and educational settings. With a Class A sound absorption rating and 40 dB attenuation, these tiles effectively reduce impact noise from metal cladding above the ceilings.
Prestige tiles offer balanced acoustical performance for larger open-plan spaces and a smooth, finely textured surface. Aruba, known for its versatility, and Arena, an affordable and reliable option with a finely-sanded surface for balanced acoustics, are also being installed in the new interior.
Leigh Bennett, Senior Project Manager at Tilbury Douglas Limited, commented on the successful project: “The Zentia ceilings and acoustic products used at Garden Mills provided the right aesthetic contrast for the period features while still performing acoustically. Bradford College is really happy with the look and feel of the building.”
The ceilings were successfully installed in the summer period of 2024 by subcontractors John Atkinson Interiors, a member of Zentia’s award-winning Pinnacle Partnership Scheme. As a Pinnacle Partner, John Atkinson Interiors benefit from an exclusive off-cut recycling scheme, enhanced specification support, and advance access to new product updates, among other advantages.
Gareth Caddick, Contract Consultant at John Atkinson Interiors & Acoustics commented on the intricacies of the project: “The renovation of older structures always offers up challenges not seen on new build contracts. Garden Mills was no exception to this rule. Simply distributing materials through narrow access routes and staircases took careful planning with all other trades. Works to the ceilings were carried out in pre-agreed phases and with the assistance of Zentia and their distribution network we were able to plan deliveries to meet the individual deadlines. Zentia’s off-cut recycling scheme together with our off site waste segregation ensured we were able to nearly eradicate any waste to skips. The completed ceilings now offer class leading acoustics giving each space a fresh and inviting environment conducive to learning.”
By integrating advanced ceiling solutions that cater to both aesthetic and functional requirements, this project not only enhances the architectural integrity of Bradford College and its campus, but also ensures an optimal environment for learning and productivity. It marks a significant milestone in creating spaces that are both beautiful and conducive to education.
MIPIM, the world’s foremost urban festival, has announced the 39 finalists for this year’s prestigious MIPIM Awards, recognising the most visionary real estate projects that are shaping the future of cities and communities across the globe. The awards, which celebrate both completed and ongoing developments, highlight groundbreaking innovation, sustainability, and architectural excellence.
Selected from hundreds of global entries, the finalists span diverse sectors, including commercial, residential, mixed-use, and cultural developments. Each project exemplifies forward-thinking design and a commitment to creating more liveable, resilient, and sustainable urban spaces.
With cities facing mounting challenges from climate change, housing shortages, and evolving work patterns, this year’s nominees showcase how the real estate industry is responding with bold, transformative solutions. Projects incorporate cutting-edge green technologies, adaptive reuse strategies, and community-focused design to redefine urban living.
The winners will be announced at MIPIM in Cannes, France, where industry leaders, investors, and policymakers will gather to explore the future of global real estate. As the sector continues to evolve, the MIPIM Awards highlight the groundbreaking work shaping the next generation of urban environments.
The global economy is set to face significant challenges in 2025, with 56% of chief economists surveyed expecting conditions to weaken, according to the latest Chief Economists Outlook from the World Economic Forum. Only 17% foresee an improvement, pointing to heightened uncertainty in key regions and the need for measured policy responses worldwide.
While the United States appears poised for a short-term boost – with 44% of chief economists predicting strong growth in 2025, up from 15% when they were asked in August last year – the outlook for the year ahead remains less optimistic for other major economies. Europe continues to rank as the weakest region for the third consecutive year, with nearly three-quarters (74%) expecting weak or very weak growth. Meanwhile, China’s economic momentum is projected to slow amid subdued consumer demand and weaker productivity, further illustrating the uneven and uncertain nature of any global recovery.
“The latest Chief Economists Outlook reveals a global economy under considerable strain,” said Aengus Collins, Head of Economic Growth and Transformation, World Economic Forum. “The growth outlook is at its weakest in decades and political developments both domestically and internationally highlight how contested economic policy has become. In this environment, fostering a spirit of collaboration will require more commitment and creativity than ever.”
The US Economy: Short-Term Momentum, Longer-Term Caution
The new report underscores the significance of the recent US presidential election, with 61% of chief economists characterizing the impact for the global economy as a long-term shift rather than a short-term disruption. Major changes are expected in areas such as trade, migration, deregulation, fiscal policy and industrial policy. The chief economists’ solid outlook for US growth in 2025 is in line with their expectation of near-term stimulus and of rising wages. However, they remain mindful of risks, with almost all expecting a rise in public debt levels (97%) and higher inflation (94%).
Global Integration under Growing Strain
In addition to subdued global growth prospects, the Chief Economists Outlook reveals intensifying pressures on the world’s economic interconnectedness. A vast majority of respondents (94%) predict further fragmentation of goods trade over the next three years, while 59% expect services trade to follow a similar path. More than three-quarters also foresee higher barriers to labour mobility, while almost two-thirds point to rising constraints on technology and data transfers. The financial sector stands out as an exception, with less than half (48%) expecting an increase in fragmentation, likely reflecting the pivotal role of cross-border financial flows in modern economies. Nevertheless, domestic and international political developments, supply-chain realignments and security concerns loom large. These shifts are likely to push up costs for businesses and consumers alike over the next three years. Business responses to the increasing fragmentation of the global economy are expected to include restructuring supply chains (91%), regionalizing operations (90%) and focusing on core markets (79%).
Trade Outlook: Navigating Rising Pressures
Nearly half (48%) of chief economists anticipate an increase in global trade volumes in 2025, underscoring the resilience of global commerce. However, a large majority expect intensifying trade tensions, both between major powers and more widely. Protectionism is identified as the primary factor that will drive lasting changes to global trade patterns, with other prominent contributors including conflict, sanctions and national security concerns. Some 82% of respondents predict greater regionalization of trade over the next three years, alongside a continuing gradual shift from goods to services.
About the Chief Economists Outlook Report
The Chief Economists Outlook builds on the latest policy development research as well as consultations and surveys with leading chief economists from both the public and private sectors, organized by the World Economic Forum’s Centre for the New Economy and Society. It aims to summarize the emerging contours of the current economic environment and identify priorities for further action by policy-makers and business leaders in response to the compounding shocks to the global economy. The survey featured in this briefing was conducted in late November 2024.
The Chief Economists Outlook supports the World Economic Forum’s Future of Growth Initiative, a two-year campaign aimed at inspiring discussion and action on charting new pathways for economic growth and supporting policy-makers in balancing growth, innovation, inclusion, sustainability and resilience goals. Learn more about the Future of Growth Initiative here.
In today’s digitised construction industry, the supply chain increasingly relies on interconnected systems, cloud-based collaboration tools, and data sharing. Adrian JG Marsh considers some options to improve protection against cyber attacks.
While these technologies enhance efficiency, they also create vulnerabilities to cyber threats. Business managers in the construction sector must adopt a proactive approach to mitigate risks and protect sensitive data and operational continuity. Below are key procedures that can minimise exposure to cyberattacks.
Develop and Enforce a Cybersecurity Policy
The foundation of any protection strategy is a comprehensive cybersecurity policy. This policy should outline the company’s approach to protecting data, identifying vulnerabilities, and responding to threats. Specific steps include:
- Clear Guidelines: Define acceptable use of company devices, networks, and software. Include protocols for managing access to sensitive data.
- Vendor Security Requirements: Establish minimum cybersecurity standards for all supply chain partners, including subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants.
The policy must be reviewed regularly and updated to address emerging threats and changes in technology.
Invest in Secure Technology Solutions
Technological safeguards are critical for protecting systems from breaches:
- Endpoint Protection: Install robust antivirus and anti-malware solutions across all devices, including desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
- Firewalls and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Deploy firewalls to block unauthorised access and IDS to monitor unusual activities on networks.
- Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data at rest and in transit to protect it from being intercepted or stolen.
- Cloud Security: Ensure that cloud service providers implement high-security standards, such as multi-factor authentication and encrypted storage.
Train Employees on Cybersecurity Awareness
Employees are often the weakest link in cybersecurity. Regular training helps mitigate this risk by educating staff on:
- Recognising Phishing Attacks: Employees should be trained to identify suspicious emails, links, or attachments.
- Password Hygiene: Promote the use of strong, unique passwords and encourage the use of password management tools.
- Incident Reporting: Ensure staff know how to report suspected breaches promptly to prevent escalation.
Make cybersecurity training a recurring activity, incorporating lessons learned from past incidents.
Monitor and Manage Supply Chain Risks
The interconnected nature of the construction supply chain means a breach in one link can affect the entire chain. Managers should:
- Assess Vendors: Conduct cybersecurity audits of suppliers and subcontractors. Verify their compliance with industry standards and best practices.
- Limit Access: Use the principle of least privilege, ensuring vendors and partners only have access to the data and systems necessary for their role.
- Third-Party Risk Management: Continuously monitor third-party activities and implement procedures for terminating access once a project concludes.
Implement an Incident Response Plan
Despite preventative measures, breaches can occur. A robust incident response plan ensures quick and effective action to minimise damage. Key elements include:
- Defined Roles: Assign specific responsibilities to team members to address breaches.
- Data Backup and Recovery: Regularly back up critical data and test recovery procedures to ensure rapid restoration in the event of an attack.
- Post-Incident Analysis: Conduct reviews after incidents to identify weaknesses and improve resilience.
Maintain Compliance with Standards
Construction firms should comply with cybersecurity frameworks such as ISO 27001 and the UK’s Cyber Essentials Scheme. These standards provide a structured approach to securing data and systems and help build trust with clients and partners.
Minimising exposure to cyberattacks in the construction supply chain requires a combination of robust policies, secure technologies, employee training, and supply chain oversight. By implementing these procedures, business managers can reduce risks, protect sensitive data, and ensure operational continuity in an increasingly digital construction environment.
Adrian Marsh
Editor Spector magazine
Modern building envelopes must fulfil an extensive range of requirements. fischer offers innovative and high-quality all-in-one solutions for the secure and aesthetic installation of the rear-ventilated rainscreen façades of the future. fischer’s range further comprises innovations for solar façades, anchor channels as cast-in fixing solutions as well as passive fire protection systemsand fixingsfor external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS).
Rear-ventilated rainscreen façades combine a sophisticated appearance with modern technology. The structure fulfils high requirements in terms of energy efficiency, protection against the environmental influences and noise, durability, low maintenance, moisture regulation and sustainability. fischer façade systems provide advantages in terms of technology, energy and cost-effectiveness, with the added benefits of safety and flexible design options. The company offers the ideal solutions for exposed or concealedfixings for all façade cladding materials tailored to the requirements of customers and projects.
The all-in-one system of compatible products with tested and approved individual components covers a wide range of subframe solutions. A comprehensive range of stainless steel or aluminium components of the subframe systems enables extensive prefabrication, simple application and fast installation. The spectrum includes systems for any type of façade material, structural and energy requirements as well as thermallydecoupled solutions to transfer loads from rear-ventilated rainscreen façades into the building substrate. This includes secure and energy-optimised wall holders as a ‘certified passive house component’ of the Passivhaus Institute as well as the stainless steel FLH-R wall holder, another product highlight with the additional assurance of a European Technical Assessment (ETA).
The range of fixings comprises exposed versions such as clamps, rivets, self-drilling screws, and suspension bolt solutions for façade cassettes to FZP II undercut anchors for concealed, aesthetic fixings and, compared to conventional edge fixings, structurally optimised installation of all kinds of cladding materials. The FZP II anchors provide a geometrical inter-lockingwithout expansion forcese in conical undercut drill holes. Compared to standard edge fixings, the undercut anchors enable the bending stress of the panel to be reduced by up to 50 percent through the statically adjustable position of the anchor in the fifth-point on the backside of the panel. This technique achieves lower slab bending moments and higher load-bearing capacities and allows more freedom during planning and execution, while better use can be made of the respective technical material properties. The optimised structural system and the increased pull-out forces allow either larger-sized panels of the same thickness or thinner and therefore lighter panels in comparison to edge fixings.
In addition to subframe solutions and panel fixings, the perfectly coordinated all-in-one system includes the corresponding anchors and connection elements. The complete solutions for installing rear-ventilated rainscreen façades from a single source speed up the progress of construction while lowering project costs.
Innovations for solar façades
New solutions for carrying out lasting and secure solar façades complement the range. The new PV clip system guarantees quick, secure and cost-effective fastenings for framed PV modules on common substrates or subframes. The horizontal ATK 103 PV clasp system meanwhile provides customers with an aesthetic alternative for solar façades.
A wide range for all façade requirements
Additional solutions for modern building envelopes include fischer FES anchor channels that guarantee a high level of safety and load-bearing capacity when anchoring façade elements in concrete through a form fit as a cast-in fixing solution. The fixtures are applied and fastened with the FBC channel bolts. Another progressive aspect is the comprehensive fischer FireStop portfolio of product solutions that prevent the spread of fire, smoke and toxic gases if a fire breaks out. The range provides a suitable, user-friendly and efficient solution for simple and complex applications such as safely implementing rear-ventilated rainscreen and curtain wall façades. fischer’s range further includes innovative insulation fixings that are efficient to install into versatile external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) thanks to their intuitive and quick application while protecting the ETICS against wind loads. The fixing expert offers additional installation elements that allow light to medium fixtures to be securely fastened to the ETICS without causing thermal bridges. fischer also offers its stand-off installation system, Thermax, which can be used to securely fasten medium to heavy fixtures to ETICS with almost no thermal loss.
With its comprehensive range of services, the fixing expert fischer supports its customers throughout every phase of implementing a façade – from consultancy services, calculations, approval procedures, briefing and installation through to the project’s successful completion.
When engaging a subcontractor for a new build fit-out project where time and quality are critical, thorough due diligence is essential. The selection process must identify partners capable of delivering to the highest standards within the required timeframe. Adrian JG Marsh considers some key issues to consider:
Technical Competency and Experience
The subcontractor’s ability to meet the technical demands of the fit-out is paramount. Evaluate their portfolio to ensure they have successfully completed similar projects, particularly those with tight timelines and stringent quality expectations.
- Project-Specific Expertise: Check if the subcontractor has relevant experience with the materials, methods, and regulatory standards required for the fit-out. For instance, if the project incorporates complex joinery, specialist finishes, or bespoke installations, confirm that they have proven expertise in these areas.
- Certifications and Training: Ensure the subcontractor’s team holds the necessary qualifications, such as CSCS cards or NVQ accreditations, and that their operatives are trained to work safely and efficiently in a construction environment.
- Quality Assurance Processes: Assess the subcontractor’s quality control measures. Request to see documentation such as method statements, inspection protocols, and evidence of adherence to ISO 9001 or similar standards. This helps ensure consistent output that meets the project’s specifications.
Capacity and Resource Availability
The subcontractor must have the capacity to allocate adequate resources to meet the project timeline without compromising quality. Key considerations include:
- Workforce: Confirm they have sufficient skilled labour available to mobilise immediately. Over-reliance on agency staff or an overstretched team can lead to delays or subpar results.
- Equipment and Supply Chains: Verify that the subcontractor owns or has reliable access to necessary tools and equipment. Additionally, evaluate the robustness of their supply chain, especially for critical materials, to avoid disruptions that could jeopardise deadlines.
- Current Workload: Review their ongoing commitments to ensure they are not overburdened. A subcontractor with multiple concurrent projects may struggle to dedicate adequate focus to yours.
Financial Stability and Contractual Reliability
Financial instability is a common cause of project delays and disputes. Assessing the subcontractor’s financial health and reliability is critical:
- Financial Records: Request recent accounts, including profit and loss statements, and analyse their cash flow position. A subcontractor in poor financial health may struggle to procure materials or pay their workforce, causing disruptions.
- Insurance and Bonding: Verify that they carry appropriate levels of insurance, including public liability and professional indemnity cover. Where applicable, confirm they can provide performance bonds or guarantees.
- Track Record: Speak with past clients to understand their reliability in meeting deadlines, budget adherence, and conflict resolution. Avoid subcontractors with a history of contractual disputes or late deliveries.
Making the Right Choice
By thoroughly assessing technical capability, resource availability, and financial stability, you can mitigate risks and select a subcontractor capable of delivering high-quality results on time. This diligence ensures the smooth progression of your fit-out project, safeguarding its success.
City centre fit-out design and installation has undergone significant transformation in recent years. Driven by shifting societal priorities, technological advancements, and a heightened focus on sustainability, fit-out now reflects the evolving demands of urban life. Adrian JG Marsh looks at some trends shaping the sector today.
Sustainability is at the forefront of fit-out design. From sourcing materials to waste management, clients and designers are embracing circular economy principles. Reclaimed and recycled materials, such as timber, metal, and stone, are increasingly favoured for their reduced environmental footprint. Innovations like carbon-neutral flooring, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient lighting are becoming standard.
Additionally, there’s a growing preference for modular construction techniques that allow components to be disassembled and reused, supporting long-term flexibility and reducing demolition waste. Fit-outs now incorporate energy monitoring systems and sensors to optimise energy use, aligning with the UK’s net-zero carbon targets.
Flexible and Adaptive Spaces
With hybrid working models and evolving retail dynamics, flexibility in design is paramount. For office fit-outs, adaptable layouts that accommodate fluctuating team sizes and diverse workstyles are key. Movable partitions, multi-functional furniture, and convertible spaces allow for seamless transitions between collaboration zones, private work areas, and event spaces.
In retail and hospitality, modular design is also gaining traction. Spaces are designed with adaptability in mind, allowing them to evolve in response to changing consumer preferences and market trends. Pop-up retail and short-term event spaces, for example, are integrated into larger designs to maximise use.
Connecting with Nature
Biophilic design plays a growing role in enhancing urban spaces by connecting interiors with nature. From green walls to indoor plants and natural material palettes, fit-outs are being designed to improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost occupant well-being. The use of large windows, skylights, and open spaces to maximise natural light also contributes to a healthier, more inviting atmosphere.
This approach is particularly evident in mixed-use developments and coworking spaces, where creating a tranquil yet productive environment is essential to attracting tenants and users.
Smart Technology Integration
The integration of smart technology is transforming how spaces function. In commercial and public environments, fit-outs increasingly feature IoT-enabled systems that improve efficiency and user experience. Automated lighting and climate controls, occupancy sensors, and contactless access systems enhance functionality while reducing operational costs.
For retail fit-outs, augmented reality (AR) and interactive displays are used to enhance customer engagement, while in office environments, digital collaboration tools and seamless connectivity reflect the growing importance of tech-savvy designs.
Heritage-Led Regeneration
In city centres, particularly in historic locations, there’s a strong focus on blending contemporary fit-outs with the preservation of heritage. This involves retaining original architectural features while introducing modern elements that complement their character. The trend aligns with the UK’s planning policies and a wider appreciation for cultural continuity in urban environments.
Inclusive Design
Inclusivity has become a core aspect of fit-out projects. Accessible layouts, tactile navigation, and multi-sensory features ensure spaces cater to diverse users. Compliance with the latest accessibility standards is not just a legal requirement but also a reflection of societal values prioritising equality.
What next?
City centre fit-out design and installation in the UK reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, adaptability, and user-centric approaches. Whether revitalising historic sites or creating ultra-modern environments, the sector is innovating to meet the demands of a dynamic urban landscape. These trends highlight the role of thoughtful design in shaping the cities of the future, ensuring they remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient.
Adrian JG Marsh
Editor – Spector Magazine
PHOTOGRAPH: BW Workplace fit-out for Knight Frank in London.
NEWS HIGHLIGHTS: Fit out specialist fails and Balfour Beatty posts stron result
Fit-out specialist failure contributes to rising insolvencies in construction
Worksmart, the Scotland-based fit-out specialist, is the latest contractor to fail as insolvencies in construction continue to grow. The award-winning firm is being wound up with the loss of all 24 jobs in the face of insurmountable commercial pressure.
Worksmart operated in the commercial interior fit-out and refurbishment sector, a wide range of industrial sectors, and handled contracts for the Scottish government.
Worksmart’s turnover collapsed from around £9m to below £6m during the pandemic.
In the face of fierce competition, rampant inflation and squeezed profit margins the business has continued to suffer. As a result the directors said it was no longer financially sustainable.
Earlier this month The Sunday Times highlighted that firms that cannot wriggle out of contracts where unrecoverable costs were escalating they are finding themselves caught in a cash crunch. Insolvencies in construction in England and Wales are running at 350 a month, compared to about 269 a month in 2019, according to the Insolvency Service.
Balfour Beatty boost half year profits and homes in on more infrastructure work
Profit at construction giant Balfour Beatty more than doubled in the first half to £18 million for the first half of 2022.
Last year the business face costs of more than £20 million from three fixed proce residential contracts in London.
The firm reported a strong financial performance featuring a 42% increase in underlying profit from operations (PFO) at £85 million (2021: £60 million)
There was a 10% increase in order book at £17.7 billion (FY 2021: £16.1 billion); provides clear short- and medium-term visibility. And an increase in average net cash at £811 million for the half year (FY 2021: £671 million)
Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, said: “With the Group well-positioned to capitalise on the growing infrastructure market, underpinned by its unique capability and balance sheet strength, the upgrade to the full year performance gives the Board further confidence in future capital returns.”
Improving infrastructure gives Manchester platform for growth
New green spaces, improved transport infrastructure and a focus on net zero are at the heart of ambitious plans for Manchester.
The city’s Mayor, Andy Burnham, has outlined his vision for Manchester as an integral part of the Northern economy to Building magazine. Just look at the skyline to see the dramatic change that has taken place this century.
Now ranked alongside Amsterdam and San Francisco as the world’s top-three best cities to live in, there is also a growing list of development opportunities maintaining momentum.
WORTH A LISTEN
Veteran construction commentators Phil Bishop and David Taylor at The Construction Index chew over news from the last couple of weeks.
https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/podcast
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