Nationwide Sureties Archives | Page 4 of 4

Construction Construction Materials Nationwide Sureties

A path to affordable, sustainable housing in the UK

The UK government faces significant challenges as it aims to tackle both the housing crisis and the urgent need to cut carbon emissions. A dual focus on increasing the number of affordable homes and reducing environmental impact requires new approaches in construction, with timber emerging as a promising material to help achieve these objectives. Timber’s lower carbon footprint, cost-effectiveness, and renewability make it ideal for meeting government targets on both house building and emissions reduction.

Timber Frame Construction — Photo by Ron Lach : https://www.pexels.com/photo/construction-of-framework-of-house-with-softwood-materials-8817834/

Timber’s Potential in Housebuilding:

Speed and Efficiency

Timber, particularly when used in modular and prefabricated construction, offers remarkable efficiency. Prefabricated timber panels can be manufactured offsite and assembled quickly, reducing construction times by up to 30%. This increase in speed means more homes can be built within a shorter timeframe, helping to address the urgent demand for new housing. Compared to traditional brick-and-mortar construction, which requires longer build times and higher labour costs, timber allows for quicker project turnover and increased capacity within the housing sector.

Affordability

One of the government’s primary objectives is to make homes more affordable for first-time buyers and lower-income households. The affordability of timber construction stems largely from its production and assembly efficiencies. A timber frame costs, on average, around 10-15% less than a traditional brick structure. With streamlined building processes and reduced site time, labour costs also decrease. Additionally, timber offers improved thermal performance, reducing the energy needs of buildings and lowering long-term costs for occupants.

Reducing Supply Chain Pressures

Timber is a widely available material, and while the UK imports much of its structural timber, it can also rely on sustainable forest management and domestic suppliers to maintain a steady supply. By scaling up timber sourcing and manufacturing capacity within the UK, the construction industry can avoid some of the cost and availability issues associated with materials like steel and concrete. This reduction in reliance on imports also helps keep construction costs stable, ultimately contributing to more affordable homes.

Environmental Impact:

Carbon Storage

Trees absorb carbon dioxide as they grow, effectively locking it within their structure. When timber is used in construction, this stored carbon remains sequestered, reducing the building’s carbon footprint. This stands in contrast to materials such as concrete and steel, which release significant emissions during production. Each cubic metre of timber can store up to one tonne of CO₂, meaning that if more homes are built from timber, the UK could make substantial progress toward its emissions reduction targets.

Reduced Emissions in Production

The production of timber requires far less energy compared to concrete and steel. According to a study by the University of Cambridge, switching from traditional materials to timber for new buildings could reduce the construction sector’s emissions by approximately 30%. When used at scale, timber construction could be a critical factor in reducing the carbon output of the building industry, which currently accounts for nearly 40% of global emissions.

Renewable Resource

Timber is one of the few renewable construction materials. Through sustainable forest management, trees can be replanted and regrown, providing a long-term supply that regenerates over time. Using certified timber from sustainably managed forests ensures that the demand for wood does not lead to deforestation. With robust regulatory frameworks, the UK could further increase its use of timber while supporting global reforestation efforts, creating a cycle that is both sustainable and economically beneficial.

In recent years, innovations like cross-laminated timber (CLT) have advanced the use of wood in large-scale projects. CLT is stronger and more durable than traditional wood products, making it suitable for multi-storey buildings and more complex structures. British developers are already beginning to use these techniques to great success, with projects like Dalston Works in London, one of the largest timber structures in Europe, setting a benchmark for eco-friendly, affordable housing.

To accelerate timber’s adoption, the government could introduce policies that incentivise sustainable timber construction. Reducing VAT on timber homes or providing grants for modular construction projects could encourage developers to choose timber over traditional materials. In addition, creating a national timber industry strategy could strengthen the domestic supply chain, reducing reliance on imports and stabilising timber prices.

The UK government’s recent pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 adds a compelling reason for embracing timber in construction. By developing a supportive policy environment, the government can help meet housing demand while taking meaningful action on climate change.

Despite timber’s advantages, there are challenges to address. Public perception regarding fire safety is a concern, especially in multi-storey buildings. However, advancements in fireproofing, combined with strict building regulations, can ensure that timber structures are safe. Timber is engineered to char on the surface in the event of a fire, forming a protective layer that slows down combustion, unlike materials that can collapse or emit toxic fumes. Through effective regulation and the use of innovative materials, these risks can be managed while promoting sustainable practices.

The Path Forward: Achieving Government Targets

The UK government’s dual targets of building more homes and achieving emissions reductions align well with timber construction’s capabilities. By increasing the use of timber, the government can make significant strides towards:

Increasing the supply of affordable housing: Timber’s efficiency and cost-effectiveness enable faster project delivery and more affordable homes.
Lowering carbon emissions: Timber’s carbon storage capacity and low-energy production make it a sustainable choice aligned with net-zero targets.
Supporting a green economy: Sustainable timber sourcing can create new jobs in forestry and manufacturing while stimulating investment in the domestic timber industry.

Incorporating timber into mainstream housing policy presents a practical solution to the UK’s housing and environmental crises. As more developers and policymakers recognise its potential, timber could play a vital role in building a sustainable, affordable future for Britain’s housing sector.

Cladding Nationwide Sureties News Refurbishment Repairs

Parliamentary Inquiry into Cladding Remediation

Following ongoing concerns since the Grenfell Tower tragedy, a parliamentary committee has intensified its focus on cladding remediation efforts across the UK. This investigation targets the efficacy, cost, and delivery speed of current remediation programmes, aiming to hold accountable both governmental bodies and stakeholders involved in addressing hazardous cladding.

The inquiry will re-evaluate the deadlines initially set for remediation, especially as the target completion date of June 2020 has long passed. Scrutiny of these timelines seeks to identify delays and any process gaps hindering the removal of dangerous materials.

Given the allocation of £5.1 billion from the government, with an additional £1 billion pledged in the Autumn Budget, the committee’s oversight will encompass how these funds are managed to avoid waste or misuse. This aims to ensure responsible and efficient use of taxpayer resources in supporting safer housing.

Examining the broader government strategy for risk prevention, the committee will question measures taken to prevent future safety hazards. The inquiry will also review changes in building regulations and the influence of industry bodies on policy standards.

With a multi-billion-pound budget dedicated to remediation, challenges remain regarding the equitable distribution of costs between the government and private developers. The committee intends to review agreements with property owners and assess developers’ roles in sharing financial responsibility, especially as remediation expenses continue to grow.

The upcoming sessions will serve as a critical examination of the UK’s progress in cladding remediation, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and the ultimate goal of safeguarding residents.

Construction Contracts Developers Nationwide Sureties News

Rising insolvencies among contractors and sub-contractors in the UK construction industry

The UK construction industry has been grappling with an alarming increase in the number of insolvencies amongst contractors and sub-contractors. Data released by the Government’s Insolvency Service reveals that there have been 2,514 cases of insolvency within the sector, underscoring significant financial pressures and operational challenges facing many firms.

Economic Headwinds and Market Pressures

The construction industry has been affected by a convergence of economic pressures in recent years. Rising material costs, supply chain disruptions, labour shortages, and inflationary pressures have all placed immense strain on contractors and sub-contractors. Many companies, already operating on thin profit margins, have been unable to absorb these increased costs. Additionally, late payments from clients and increasing project delays have compounded financial vulnerabilities, pushing many businesses into unsustainable debt.

Termination graphic — Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Impact of Rising Material and Labour Costs

The cost of materials has risen substantially since 2020, largely due to supply chain disruptions caused by Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The price of key materials, such as steel, cement, and timber, has surged, forcing contractors to bear escalating project expenses. Sub-contractors, who often operate on fixed-price contracts, are particularly affected, as they have little flexibility to adjust prices mid-project.

Labour shortages have also been a notable factor, with fewer skilled workers available in the market. Many contractors have had to offer higher wages to retain and attract workers, putting additional strain on project budgets. The resulting increases in operational costs have left many firms in precarious financial positions, unable to meet financial obligations as they arise.

Cash Flow Constraints and Late Payments

Cash flow remains one of the most pressing issues in the construction sector, with contractors frequently experiencing delayed payments from clients. This delay can trickle down through the supply chain, leaving sub-contractors without timely payments for completed work. A recent survey by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) revealed that over 60% of construction businesses in the UK have reported issues with late payments from clients.

Late payments disrupt cash flow and limit the ability of companies to invest in necessary resources and manage day-to-day operational costs. For smaller contractors and sub-contractors, who often rely on steady cash flow to fund ongoing projects, these delays can be particularly debilitating. When cash flow becomes insufficient to cover rising costs, insolvency can quickly become a reality.

Energy Prices and Operational Costs

Rising energy costs have also contributed to the insolvency rates within the construction sector. With many projects requiring substantial energy consumption for machinery, lighting, and other operational necessities, increased energy prices have eaten into already-tight profit margins.

The government’s initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable construction practices, while essential for the long-term health of the industry, have in the short term introduced additional costs and regulatory requirements. Smaller firms, especially, struggle to adapt to these changing requirements due to the limited capital to invest in energy-efficient technologies.

The Broader Economic Environment

The broader economic environment has exacerbated these challenges. High inflation rates and rising interest rates have affected the availability of affordable financing, making it more challenging for contractors to access loans for growth or even to maintain liquidity. As a result, many firms have been forced to operate without sufficient financial cushioning, leaving them vulnerable to even minor cash flow disruptions.

Government Response and Industry Support

The government has introduced some initiatives to support struggling businesses, including the Construction Playbook, which encourages best practices in procurement, project management, and risk allocation. However, many industry leaders argue that more targeted financial support is necessary to address the root causes of insolvency. Measures to enforce timely payments, reduce the burden of compliance for smaller firms, and address material price volatility could be beneficial in stabilising the industry.

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has called for further action, urging the government to address supply chain issues and provide support for companies transitioning to greener construction practices. Increased awareness and understanding of construction sector challenges amongst policymakers could help improve the longevity and resilience of firms, particularly those that play vital roles in regional economies.

The high rate of insolvencies among contractors and sub-contractors in the UK construction industry reflects significant structural issues exacerbated by economic pressures. Addressing these challenges will require both government intervention and industry collaboration to mitigate risks, encourage prompt payments, and manage escalating costs. Without targeted support, the industry faces continued financial strain, potentially leading to more insolvencies and greater uncertainty for the construction sector’s future stability.

Brownfield Developers Nationwide Sureties News Public Works Contract

Government commits £68 million to unlock brownfield sites for development

The UK government has renewed its commitment to unlocking brownfield sites for development, aiming to address the nation’s housing shortage through the regeneration of previously used land. Brownfield sites, typically former industrial or commercial areas, offer significant opportunities for redevelopment while helping to preserve the country’s green spaces.

In a recent announcement, the government pledged an additional £68 million to support the development of brownfield sites across the country. This funding will be distributed amongst 54 local authorities, with each council receiving tailored financial support to prepare and unlock brownfield land for new housing projects.

The £68 million is part of the wider Brownfield Land Release Fund 2 (BLRF2) initiative, which aims to encourage the transformation of derelict land into vibrant residential communities. The government estimates that this latest round of funding will enable the construction of around 6,000 new homes, contributing to the broader national target of delivering affordable housing.

This new £68 million commitment builds on the £1.8 billion investment announced in 2023 for brownfield site regeneration. The broader funding aims to prioritise areas where the demand for housing is most urgent, particularly in urban regions with limited available land. Of the total, £550 million had already been earmarked specifically for brownfield sites, highlighting the government’s focus on reusing previously developed land.

Old industrial site being prepared for development — Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay

The combined funding from these initiatives is expected to support councils in addressing the key challenges posed by brownfield redevelopment, including site contamination, planning hurdles, and infrastructure improvements.

Redeveloping brownfield land offers a sustainable solution to the UK’s housing needs. These sites, often located in urban or semi-urban areas, benefit from proximity to existing infrastructure, such as public transport, utilities, and services, which can reduce the cost and complexity of development. This approach also helps protect the green belt and rural areas, ensuring that new housing is built in places where it is most needed.

Moreover, regenerating brownfield land can breathe new life into neglected areas. Redevelopment projects can revitalise local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for residents by transforming derelict land into thriving communities.

Despite the many benefits, developing brownfield sites presents its own set of challenges. Many brownfield sites require significant remediation work to make them suitable for housing, particularly those with a legacy of industrial contamination. This can make development more expensive than building on greenfield sites.

The government’s financial support is therefore critical in helping local authorities overcome these hurdles. The £68 million fund will be used to prepare sites by clearing and decontaminating the land, making it viable for housing projects. Additionally, the funding will assist councils in navigating planning processes and ensuring that necessary infrastructure is in place to support new developments.

The government’s strategy to focus on brownfield development aligns with its broader goals for sustainability and urban regeneration. By prioritising the reuse of previously developed land, the UK can reduce its environmental footprint, limit urban sprawl, and ensure that new housing is built in locations with existing infrastructure.

Unlocking brownfield sites is also a key component of the government’s long-term housing strategy, which aims to address the shortage of affordable homes while maintaining the integrity of the countryside.

With the government’s additional £68 million investment in brownfield development, the potential to transform derelict sites into much-needed housing has gained further momentum. Distributed amongst 54 local authorities, this funding will enable the construction of thousands of new homes while preserving green spaces and promoting sustainable urban growth.

By continuing to support brownfield regeneration, the government is taking significant steps towards meeting its housing targets, revitalising communities, and ensuring a sustainable and responsible approach to development across the UK.

Construction Nationwide Sureties Refurbishment

Energy efficiency homes for all

At the 2024 Labour Conference, Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, announced a bold commitment to significantly improve the energy efficiency of homes across the UK. In his speech, he outlined Labour’s plan to ensure that both socially and privately rented homes would meet higher energy efficiency standards, with the goal of lifting over one million people out of fuel poverty by 2030.

Ed Miliband said: “We all know that the poorest people in our country often live in cold, draughty homes. …this government will not tolerate this injustice, and we will end it.

“We will go further and faster than promised in our manifesto: ensuring every rented home reaches decent standards of energy efficiency.”

Under the proposed legislation, social and private rent homes will be required to meet an EPC rating of C before they can be rented out.

Miliband criticised the Conservative Party’s legacy of cold and draughty homes, describing it as a “Tory scandal” that Labour is determined to end. He promised to enforce stricter energy performance standards, requiring rented properties to achieve an EPC rating of C, compared to the current minimum of E. This initiative is expected to reduce energy bills for tenants while contributing to the UK’s climate goals by cutting carbon emissions through improved insulation, solar panels, and low-carbon heating systems.

Rebecca Armstrong, CEO of Making Energy Greener, welcomed the move, highlighting the positive impact it would have on vulnerable tenants often living in poorly heated homes. She noted that the EPC rating of C by 2030 would ensure warmer, healthier, and more affordable homes, while emphasising the importance of government support schemes like ECO4 and the Warm Homes Grant to assist landlords in upgrading their properties.

“I am very happy to hear that the government is finally putting pressure on landlords to improve the energy performance of their properties. Far too often, vulnerable people are left living in poorly heated, damp homes, which can have a serious impact on their health and well-being. The new standard of an EPC rating of C by 2030 is a crucial step in pushing up standards across private and social rented properties, helping to ensure that tenants have homes that are warmer, healthier, and more affordable to live in.” she said.

Miliband also stressed Labour’s commitment to clean energy, reiterating the party’s ambition to make the UK a clean energy superpower. By promoting renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydrogen, Labour aims to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and protect citizens from fluctuating global energy prices.

This ambitious plan reflects Labour’s broader vision of economic and social justice, prioritising energy efficiency as a key tool to address both climate change and inequality.

Construction Demolition Developers Nationwide Sureties

Ambitious plan for 4,000 new homes at Earls Court

London’s housing market is set for a significant boost with the announcement of an ambitious plan to build 4,000 new homes at Earls Court. This major development, spearheaded by the Earls Court Development Company (ECDC), will transform a significant portion of West London into a thriving new residential and commercial hub. In this article, we explore the role of the ECDC, the developers involved, and what the project entails, including the removal of existing structures to make way for this exciting new neighbourhood.

Earls Court redevelopment proposal — Image: Delancey

The ECDC is at the heart of this regeneration project and was established specifically to manage and oversee the transformation of the 40-acre Earls Court site, which is one of the largest development areas in central London. Their mission is to deliver a world-class development that reflects the history and character of the area while providing much-needed housing, green spaces, and amenities for the local community.

ECDC is committed to working closely with local authorities, residents, and stakeholders to ensure that the project aligns with the needs and aspirations of the community. Through public consultations and community engagement, they have shaped a plan that not only addresses housing shortages but also improves the overall quality of life in the area.

The developer behind this massive regeneration project is Delancey, a real estate investment firm known for its large-scale urban development projects. Delancey, through the ECDC, brings extensive experience and a strong vision for how the new Earls Court should take shape.

In addition to providing 4,000 new homes, the development is set to offer a mix of retail, office spaces, cultural venues, and public parks. These elements are designed to create a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood that blends residential living with commercial and recreational facilities. A key part of Delancey’s strategy is creating homes that cater to a variety of residents, from young professionals to families, while also ensuring that affordable housing is a significant part of the mix.

Before the new homes and facilities can be constructed, the site will require extensive preparation. The area in question is the former home of the famous Earls Court Exhibition Centre, a renowned venue for concerts, trade shows, and exhibitions until its closure in 2014. The Exhibition Centre, once a landmark of the area, was partially demolished, but much of the remaining infrastructure still needs to be cleared before construction can begin.

Table Park at the heart of Earls Court proposals

This includes the removal of old foundations, utilities, and other remnants of the Exhibition Centre. Additionally, several smaller commercial buildings and undeveloped spaces will be repurposed to make way for the new development. As part of the project’s sustainability objectives, there is a strong emphasis on recycling and reusing materials from the existing structures where possible, reducing waste and lowering the environmental impact of the demolition phase.

Once completed, the Earls Court development will not only deliver 4,000 new homes but will also create new public spaces and improve infrastructure in the area. Key features of the development include:

A Variety of Housing Options: From affordable housing units to high-end apartments, the development aims to cater to a broad demographic, making Earls Court an inclusive, diverse community.
Public Parks and Green Spaces: A significant portion of the project is dedicated to green spaces, providing residents with much-needed recreational areas. This will enhance the overall quality of life and create a more liveable urban environment.
Retail and Commercial Spaces: New shops, restaurants, and office spaces will provide jobs and amenities for residents and the wider community, supporting local economic growth.
Cultural and Social Spaces: In keeping with the spirit of Earls Court’s historic legacy as a cultural hub, the development will include venues for arts, entertainment, and community events, fostering a sense of community and cultural vibrancy.
Sustainable Design: With sustainability at the forefront of modern development, the project will incorporate environmentally friendly practices in construction, energy use, and transport. The goal is to create a green, future-proof neighbourhood that aligns with London’s long-term climate goals.

The plan for 4,000 new homes at Earls Court is a transformative project for both the local area and London as a whole. Led by the Earls Court Development Company and Delancey, this ambitious regeneration will breathe new life into one of the city’s most famous districts, providing much-needed housing, public spaces, and commercial opportunities.

With the removal of the old Earls Court Exhibition Centre and careful planning, the development is poised to create a vibrant, sustainable community that reflects the needs of 21st-century London.

Construction Contracts Nationwide Sureties

Contractors should be careful before abandoning a project

In the construction industry, contractors are often faced with situations where payments are delayed or withheld. While it might seem like an obvious solution to abandon a contract when payment issues arise, contractors in the UK must be cautious before taking this step. The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996, commonly referred to as the Construction Act, provides important legal frameworks that govern payment disputes. Section 112 of this Act, which deals with the contractor’s right to suspend work due to non-payment, plays a pivotal role in determining what a contractor can and cannot do when faced with payment issues.

Understanding Section 112 of the Construction Act

Section 112 gives contractors the right to suspend work if they have not been paid in accordance with the contract or within the statutory deadlines provided by the Act. The provision was introduced to provide contractors with a legal remedy when payments are delayed or withheld unjustly. However, this right comes with specific conditions and procedural requirements that must be carefully followed.

Notice Requirement: Before suspending work, the contractor is legally obligated to issue a written notice to the employer (or the party responsible for payment). This notice must specify the amount due, the period for which payment has not been made, and state the contractor’s intention to suspend work if payment is not received within a certain time. According to the Construction Act, the notice period must be at least seven days. Failure to provide adequate notice can result in the suspension being considered unlawful, exposing the contractor to potential liability for breach of contract.
Right to Partial Suspension: Under Section 112, contractors are also allowed to partially suspend their work if they prefer to continue with some elements of the contract while withholding other services. This flexibility can help maintain a working relationship with the employer and keep the project progressing to some extent, while also signalling that non-payment is being taken seriously.
Cost Recovery: Another significant aspect of Section 112 is that the contractor is entitled to recover reasonable costs and expenses incurred as a result of the suspension of works. This includes costs related to the delay or disruption caused by the suspension. However, these costs must be reasonable and directly attributable to the suspension in order to be recoverable.

Risks of Abandoning the Contract:

While the Construction Act grants the right to suspend work, abandoning the contract outright without adhering to the statutory requirements is a very different matter. Contractors must be aware of the potential consequences of abandoning a project due to non-payment, which include:
Breach of Contract: Abandoning a contract without following the proper legal procedures can lead to the contractor being found in breach of contract. This can result in the employer taking legal action for damages, which may include the cost of hiring replacement contractors and any financial losses incurred due to project delays. The contractor’s decision to walk away could also nullify their right to recover outstanding payments or even result in claims for penalties or compensation from the employer.
Loss of Retention: Many construction contracts in the UK include a retention clause, where a percentage of each payment is held back until the project is satisfactorily completed. If a contractor abandons a project, they risk losing the retention monies owed to them, further exacerbating the financial strain caused by non-payment.
Damage to Reputation: In an industry where reputation is key, abandoning a contract can have long-term negative impacts on a contractor’s standing within the sector. Employers, clients, and project managers may view a contractor who walks away from a project as unreliable, making it harder to secure future work. Furthermore, such actions could be flagged in future pre-qualification questionnaires (PQQs), which assess a contractor’s past performance before awarding contracts.
Forfeiture of the Right to Suspend: Section 112 of the Construction Act is designed to be a protective measure for contractors, but if a contractor opts to abandon the contract, they may forfeit their right to suspend work in accordance with the law. The suspension process provides legal safeguards, but these are only available if the contractor follows the proper steps. By abandoning the contract, a contractor removes the opportunity to use this statutory right as leverage.

Practical Considerations for Contractors:

Contractors should carefully consider their legal options before taking any drastic steps when faced with non-payment. The following practical steps can help mitigate risks and preserve legal rights:
Follow the Correct Procedures: Always issue a notice of intention to suspend work as required by Section 112. This formal process gives the employer an opportunity to rectify the situation and protects the contractor’s position.
Seek Legal Advice: If payment disputes persist, contractors should seek advice from legal professionals with expertise in construction law. Legal counsel can provide tailored guidance on the best course of action, whether that be suspending work or pursuing legal remedies such as adjudication or arbitration.
Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Rather than abandoning a project, contractors might consider using ADR mechanisms such as adjudication, which is a fast-track dispute resolution process commonly used in the UK construction industry. This can help resolve payment disputes while keeping the project on track.
Maintain Documentation: Contractors should ensure that all communications regarding payment issues are well documented. This includes issuing notices, keeping records of unpaid invoices, and maintaining correspondence with the employer. Such documentation can serve as vital evidence if the matter escalates to a formal dispute resolution process.

While non-payment is a serious issue that can cause significant financial stress for contractors, it is crucial to act cautiously before abandoning a contract. Section 112 of the Construction Act provides a legal framework for suspending work due to non-payment, but contractors must strictly follow the provisions of this section to avoid legal consequences.

By adhering to the notice requirements and considering alternative solutions such as dispute resolution, contractors can protect their legal rights and financial interests without jeopardising their future opportunities or risking breach of contract claims.

Construction Materials Nationwide Sureties

Adding brick dust to cement can lower carbon content

Using waste clay and brick in cement production could reduce the material’s embodied carbon by up to 30 per cent and boost UK construction’s circular economy, according to a new report.

A two-year study led by the Mineral Products Association (MPA) with funding from Innovate UK has demonstrated that UK reclaimed clays and finely ground brick powder can be used as calcined clays in cement and concrete manufacturing to deliver lower emissions compared to the market-leading CEM I cement.

The findings also confirmed that calcined clays from these sources have the potential to divert 1.4 million tonnes of material from potential waste streams if the materials were adopted by the UK construction industry.

Clay is a naturally abundant material in the UK and can offer an alternative to industrial by-products such as ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) and fly-ash which have been traditionally used to lower the embodied carbon of cement. UK production of both materials is reducing as the power and steel industries decarbonise.

In other parts of the world, calcined clays are used as a secondary cementitious material but until now they have not been officially tested in the UK.

Two heating methods were trialled to prepare the clay for use in cement and concrete: commonly used rotary kilns, and the more innovative ‘flash heating’. Both methods have been shown to produce high-quality calcined clays, and with no significant difference between techniques.

The project has been supported by Heidelberg Materials UK, Tarmac, Imerys Minerals Ltd, Forterra, University College London and University of Dundee.

Dr Diana Casey, Executive Director, energy and climate change at the MPA said: “Using brick waste and reclaimed clays will not only lower carbon and reduce waste but has the potential to create a whole new market if these clays become widely used in the construction industry, helping to retain economic value in the UK, secure jobs and attract investment.”

The development of low carbon cements and concretes represent one of seven key levers in MPA UK Concrete’s Roadmap to Beyond Net Zero. The roadmap sets out the UK concrete and cement industry’s own commitments to delivering net zero and builds on its decarbonising the industry by 53 per cent since 1990.

Construction Nationwide Sureties News

New affordable homes for Waddon

Hyde are working with the London Borough of Croydon to build 126 affordable homes close to Waddon railway station. The new homes, which will include 56 for affordable rent and 70 for shared ownership are due to be ready in autumn 2025.

The homes will surround a green space for the community to enjoy, which will also include natural play equipment and allotments for residents. There’ll also be EV charging and a public art installation.

Hyde’s Development and Sales Director, Steven Morrice, said: “We’ve been committed to this scheme for a number of years, which was unfortunately delayed after the original contractor became insolvent. It’s great to see the progress being made on these much-needed affordable homes.”

This is Hyde’s first project with contractor Formation Design & Build, which began building the two low-rise blocks of apartments, duplexes and town houses in January 2024.

Formation Design & Build CEO, Sean O’Brien, said: “We’re pleased to be working with Hyde to deliver these sustainable, energy-efficient and high quality homes. This development will have a really positive impact on the local community.”

Steven Morrice added: “This is a great example of what we can achieve when we work closely with the Greater London Authority and local authorities.

“Thanks to our strategic partnership with the GLA, all the homes will be affordable, rather than the 30% originally approved via planning. These partnerships are vital, if we are to deliver the thousands of genuinely affordable homes needed across Greater London.”

Construction Bonds Nationwide Sureties News

QBE Europe to take a diminished role in the UK Construction Bonds Market

QBE Europe’s surprise announcement that it was no longer providing bonds over £1.5m allegedly sent a shock wave through the construction industry, or did it really?

QBE attribute the decision to increased volatility within the industry driven by Brexit, the pandemic and political unrest that has disrupted supply chains. Over the past 2 years or so, on average, a construction company goes into administration every week, including some big players such as Buckingham, Henry and Readie, leaving insurers to pick up the pieces.

A spokesperson for QBE Europe said: “Following a review, we have decided to cease writing new construction-bond business from our London office.”

“This decision does not impact in any way our construction bond MGA for SMEs.”

“As always, we will continue to monitor developments in the sector and periodically review our market position.”

Construction site — Photo by Etienne Girardet on Unsplash

Nationwide Sureties Ltd, a specialist Bond provider and a major supplier of construction bonds for the UK Construction Industry responded to the news and wanted to reassure everyone that it is business as usual.

A spokesperson said: “Although this news was surprising, Nationwide Sureties Ltd will continue to provide a full range of Construction Guarantee Bonds including Performance, Advance Payment, Retention Bonds, Section Agreements for Roads, Sewers, HMRC, Environment Agency and many more, along with all other forms of Construction Bonds.”

“Since 1999, Nationwide Sureties has provided well over £600 million worth of bonds and guarantees and can see no reason why QBE Europe’s decision will have any effect on our ability to place your business. We will utilise every avenue available to us that we have nurtured over the course of our 25 years in the surety market to ensure that all our Contractors and Sub-Contractors have capacity available to them for their Bonding needs”

“We have clients ranging from small independent businesses through to major blue-chip companies who have all successfully relied on our expertise in finding the right solution for each requirement.”

“Over the past 25 years, Nationwide Sureties Ltd has steadily grown, experienced all the ups and downs of the markets through the financial crashes and unprecedented inflation, Covid, Brexit and many of the other financial fluctuations, to become a major provider of bonds within the industry, and that growth will continue for many years to come. We will continue to support our 1000 plus clients and welcome any new ones with our one-on-one personal service.”

If you wish to discuss with Nationwide Sureties Ltd, please contact them through their website www.nationwidesureties.co.uk, by telephone on 0151 931 5599 or by email at nationwidesureties@gmail.com.

Newer Posts

0151 931 5599

Nationwide Sureties