Research and Features
Becoming an academy
August 2010
Legislation introduced in July 2010 has paved the way for radical reform of the state education system. The government is also undertaking a full review of all Department for Education capital spending projects. We assess the impact on school estates of these 2 major issues.
Construction inflation report August 2010
August 2010
The construction sector has been showing small signs of stability since Quarter 1 of 2010. However, speculation continues to surround the government's commitment to capital expenditure, pending the comprehensive spending review in October.
Companies aren't ready for the Carbon Tax
August 2010
As the registration deadline for the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme approaches, many organisations face financial and reputational risks by lack of preparation. We look at the steps companies need to take towards compliance, including carbon footprinting reports and energy efficiency strategies.
BioPharma networking: sector collaboration enhances best practice
June 2010
Collaboration plays a big part within the BioPharma sector in relation to the built environment, transcending the commercial competitiveness that naturally exists in companies' core business areas. A collaborative approach addresses such common themes as risk management and verification.
Public sector procurement
June 2010
While the UK economy may be moving out of recession, budgets in the public sector are tight and likely to get tighter. Collaborative Procurement ensures that the sector can benefit from its significant scale, and a number of frameworks are now in place to maintain commercial leverage and greater choice and flexibility.
The coalition and the carbon economy
May 2010
What are the big Cameron/Clegg ideas on the carbon economy and sustainability? We review the parties' approach to carbon trading, transport, energy generation and the green investment bank.
A greener Buckingham Palace
May 2010
The Queen's London residence is said to cost £2.2million in fuel bills each year. The latest methods and materials could cut its carbon emissions considerably.
Cutting carbon: the 'Whole House' approach
April 2010
Achieving the government's targets on carbon emissions will take more than a few energy-saving light bulbs. The whole house approach addresses this, shifting emphasis to look at potential improvements holistically.
Notification of tower crane regulations
April 2010
Since 2000, there have been 8 fatal accidents in England and Wales associated with tower crane failure. New regulations will require a notification to HSE of the crane location, examination of the crane by a suitably qualified person, and a report of any defects.
Construction Inflation Report March 2010
March 2010
Construction output continued to contract for the 22nd month in a row in December 2009. However reports show a slower decline in construction activity which leads economists to believe that the broader economic recovery will have a positive impact on the hard hit construction industry.
International Construction Intelligence - UK edition
March 2010
Curent trends in the world economy continue to impact powerfully on construction. Issues include carbon cap and trade schemes; the performance of construction markets worldwide; the impact of exchange rates on construction.
Nokia retail sustainability programme
March 2010
Major retailers continue to invest in sustainability as rewards go beyond the reduced costs linked with the efficient use of energy and resources. The Nokia Retail team demonstrates this, with a holistic approach to sustainability.
Sustainability in older people's housing
February 2010
The Extra Care sector could lead the way on sustainable home provision. Older residents stand to benefit as they typically spend more time at home and more money on lighting, heating and cooling.
Electrification: putting the spark back into the railways
January 2010
In the rail sector, the drive to reduce carbon emissions is positioning electrification as part of a wider environmental solution. The initial high capital investment costs have historically been the main stumbling block. Life cycle costs, however, more than offset the initial installation costs and ongoing maintenance.
New guidance for asbestos surveys
January 2010
The Health & Safety Executive has reviewed its guidance on asbestos surveying. The new guidelines place greater emphasis on the responsibilities of the duty holder, and on the competency of the asbestos surveyor. Find out about the new survey types.
Sustainable procurement through the supply chain
January 2010
We are seeing growing interest in environmentally responsible supply chain management. Find out about setting upfront sustainability targets in projects, and consider how green leases can form part of a sustainable procurement strategy.
Taking the temperature of NHS Estates
January 2010
With a budget increase of only 2.4%, 2010 will bring significant challenges for the NHS. Capital expenditure on buildings and facilities is likely to shrink in favour of front-line services. Sustainability and ‘using what you have' are the watchwords in shaping the future of the health sector's estates.
Sustainable construction and waste management leads to savings
January 2010
Environmental issues remain high on the agenda following the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December 2009. The construction industry can reduce its environmental impact by implementing strategic waste management planning.