Building and Facilities News Issue 1008

Tel: 0121 550 4593 ● www.buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk ● July ● Issue 1008
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Achieve safe buildings and
100% compliance with
procurement experts
Page 6
Fridgenius
11
Ground-
breaker
12
Corsaidi
Fitness
14

Fire & Evacuation Services Ltd
Waking Watch | Evacuation Management | Training
Trusted Experts in Fire Safety
Fire & Evacuation Services Ltd are UK-wide Emergency
Response Specialists, proudly led by operational
Firefighters with decades of real-world experience. We
are pioneers in professionalising Waking Watch and
Evacuation Management – services we have delivered
to the highest standard since being among the first
commissioned for the Grenfell response in 2017. That
pivotal moment fuels our commitment to ensuring
people feel protected, informed, and secure.
What Is a Waking Watch?
Waking Watch is a critical fire safety strategy for
buildings identified as high risk, often due to cladding
or other serious fire safety concerns. It involves trained
personnel conducting continuous patrols of all internal
floors and external perimeters to detect fire hazards,
raise alarms, and lead safe evacuations. At F&ES, we
provide a trusted, reassuring presence where it’s needed
most – offering fast response and expert evacuation
co-ordination until permanent fire safety measures are
in place.
What Our Wardens Do
Our professional Wardens deliver 24/7 Waking Watch
and Evacuation Management. They monitor escape
routes, assist vulnerable residents, log patrols via NFC
tags, and produce daily safety reports. In an emergency,
they call 999, co-ordinate evacuation, and support Fire &
Rescue Services on arrival. They also conduct fire drills,
maintain compliance with the Fire Safety (England)
Regulations 2022, manage the Premises Information
Box, and deliver site-specific evacuation plans, including
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). Their
presence brings immediate reassurance and long-term
risk reduction.
Accredited Training Services
We are an approved training provider delivering
hands-on, practical courses that build life-saving
skills and confidence. Led by industry experts –
former Firefighters, Paramedics, and Health & Safety
professionals – our courses include:
◆ Fire Safety Awareness
◆ Fire Warden
◆ Manual Handling
◆ Emergency First Aid at Work
◆ First Aid at Work
◆ Evacuation Management
Training is available nationwide, at your location or one
of our dedicated UK training centres.
Why Choose F&ES?
Because we’re not just responders – we’re protectors,
educators, and trusted partners in fire safety.
Whether you’re safeguarding a building, planning for
emergencies, or training your team, we deliver the
expertise you need.
Contact Fire & Evacuation Services today – your safety is our mission
Contact Us
Telephone: 020 8087 0343
Email: info@fireandevacuationservices.co.uk
Website: www.fireandevacuationservices.co.uk

Editor’s Comments
Welcome to our July issue, where we dive into
the latest advancements, practical insights,
and groundbreaking innovations shaping the
building and facilities industries.
Congratulations to Synergie Training, our
Construction and Infrastructure Training
Company of the Month.
Featured on page 16,
the article highlights
the company’s range
of new Building Safety
Act training courses,
targeted at increasing
understanding of
The Act and the
secondary legislation
improving construction
competency and
meeting safety obligations.
On page 14, we have a full review of
the fourth edition of The Workplace
Event, that was held from 8-10 April
2025 at the NEC Birmingham. This
year’s event once again proved to
be a catalyst
for change –
empowering attendees
with the tools, insights,
and connections to
reimagine the future of
work.
One of our Top
Exhibitors from the
event was Corsaidi
Fitness, who
Contents
Nicola Yoxall
Editor & Office Manager
showcased their innovative
approach to health and wellness
and presented a talk on how
senior leadership can best utilise
in-office gyms. This is a great
article with all the information
needed for those looking to create
and design your own corporate
gym.
Other topics covered: Fire Safety, Construction,
Facilities & Estate Management, Cleaning
& Hygiene, Lighting & Electrical, Heating,
Ventilation & Air Conditioning, Water
Management, Project Management, Building
Products & Services, Health & Safety.
Share all news:
nicolayoxall@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Building and
Facilities News
Construction 4-5
O’Reilly Precast is a leading
provider of offsite precast
concrete systems across
the UK and Ireland,
specialising in the
design, manufacture, and
installation of structural frames.
Heating, Ventilation &
Air Conditioning 10-11
For over 25 years,
Fridgenius has
been dedicated
to manufacturing
and supplying the Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet to national and
international distributors and partners.
Water Management 12-13
The new technology
smart meters need a
better environment
than the traditional
hole in the ground.
The Workplace Event 14
The fourth edition was
held from 8-10 April 2025
at the NEC Birmingham.
Contacts
Editor & Office Manager, Nicola Yoxall – 0121 550 4593
nicolayoxall@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Editorial, Gina Burton – 07483 931474 – gina@buildingandfacilitiesnews.co.uk
Production Manager, Robert Sharp
production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
Accounts Department, Paul Whitaker – 0121 824 4742
accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk
For more information or format requirements, see our Media Pack
Unless stated as news, the entire content of this publication is advertorial based.
To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 550 4593.
On the Cover
Fusion21 6
New legislation, like the Building Safety Act (BSA 2022), means
responsibility to ensure building compliance has grown, and the need
to get building safety right cannot be underestimated. At Fusion21,
our Building Safety and Compliance Framework is here to help.
Company of the Month 16
Founded in 2009,
Synergie Training
has established
itself as a
leading provider
of construction
and infrastructure
training.
Building Products &
Services 18-19
Zest Wall Panels, part
of Swish Building
Products, has
announced an extension
to its range with the launch of its new
contemporary Acoustic Wall Panels.
BFN is sponsored
by Groundbreaker
– see them on
pages 12-13

Construction
O’Reilly Precast: Offsite
construction for smarter
school building
West Fraser CaberDek
can now weather the
storm for longer
O’Reilly Precast is a leading
provider of offsite precast concrete
systems across the UK and
Ireland, specialising in the design,
manufacture, and installation of
structural frames for schools,
special needs units (SNUs), &
education facilities.
With over 90 years of experience,
the company has developed
a proven model for delivering
walls, floors, stairs, lift shafts, and
architectural finishes, all factoryproduced
and delivered to site for
fast, safe assembly.
Modern Methods of Construction
(MMC) are now central to public
procurement frameworks. O’Reilly
Precast’s offsite approach helps
reduce programme times, minimise
disruption to live campuses, and
improve quality through factorycontrolled
production.
Recent education projects
include SEN units, modular
classrooms, and full precast school
buildings across Ireland and the
UK. All elements are designed
in-house using 3D modelling
software, ensuring accuracy and
coordination from planning to
completion.
With a focus on reliability,
precision, & safety, O’Reilly Precast
continues to support contractors,
architects, and public bodies in
delivering smarter, faster and more
sustainable educational buildings.
Contact
T +44 (0)121 630 3498
sales@oreillyprecast.co.uk
www.oreillyprecast.co.uk
Already widely used across the
construction industry to create
floors, terraces and flat roofs which
will withstand wet weather for
up to seven weeks before being
permanently protected, West Fraser’s
genuinely rugged CaberDek boards
have now been
granted BBA
approval for
a significantly
longer, 60 day
period.
The upgrade
is predicted to
see even more
contractors
and developers
switching
to the high
performance
product in
preference to
standard alternatives such as OSB
and even marine grade plywood.
The upgrade has come about as
West Fraser has listened to the views
of its end users and own product
development teams regarding
CaberDek’s potential.
Meeting BS EN312: part 5 standards,
CaberDek provides a secure working
surface with its robust non-slip
film that will withstand impacts,
punctures, and tears common on
construction sites. For optimal
bonding, CaberFix D4 adhesive is
recommended
for secure the
flooring to joists
and sealing
the tongue
and groove
joints, as well
as around
exposed edges.
When used with
CaberFix tape, it
protects against
spilled plaster,
paint and the
weather; while
for use in the
harshest winter conditions, CaberFix
X-treme Tape can withstand the most
severe temperatures.
For further information,
call 01786 812921 or visit:
https://uk.westfraser.com
Refurbishment & Renovation
92% IRR hidden in ‘Boring’ buildings:
New report shows retrofit sweet
spot beyond flagship projects
A new report from Building
Atlas, ‘The Beauty in
‘Boring’ Buildings: the
business case for retrofit
beyond flagship assets’,
reveals that retrofitting
everyday commercial
properties – often
overlooked in favour
of high-profile, flagship
projects – can generate
extraordinary returns. The
company’s proprietary
analysis uncovered retrofit
opportunities in socalled
‘boring’ buildings
delivering Internal Rates of
Return (IRR) as high as 92%, far surpassing
returns typically seen in iconic projects.
While flagship retrofits such as London’s 7
Air Street and Leeds’ Greenhouse have been
celebrated for their ambition and innovation,
the report argues that they are important, but
unique examples that are difficult to replicate
across the UK’s commercial building stock.
According to Building Atlas, the true climate
and financial opportunity
lies across the 77.8% of UK
commercial buildings currently
facing stranded asset risk –
suburban offices, mid-century
retail, and regional warehouses.
Key findings from the report
include:
s A Building Atlas analysis
of a subset of GP practices
across Greater London
identified retrofit projects
delivering 351 tonnes of
CO 2 savings per year – the
equivalent of taking 250
cars off the road – with a
payback period of just 1-2 years and an
IRR between 46% and 92%.
s Flagship projects often exhibit diminishing
marginal returns – with the final 10% of
carbon reductions consuming up to 40%
of budgets.
s While high-cost, low-impact retrofits can
capture the public imagination, Building
Atlas finds that the ‘boring’ lower-cost,
high-impact retrofits are what’s needed
to get the built environment on track to
decarbonise.
s 90% of carbon savings can typically be
achieved at just 60-70% of the cost of
pursuing BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ ratings,
according to UK Green Building Council
research cited in the report.
Building Atlas argues for a tiered retrofit
strategy, prioritising fast, scalable
interventions such as LED lighting, smart
thermostats, and intelligent energy controls –
particularly across the UK’s 29 million ageing
non-domestic and domestic buildings.
The report serves as a call to action for real
estate investors, owners, and policymakers
to redirect capital and retrofit business
cases toward high-volume, scalable retrofit
measures: maximising carbon reduction per
pound spent while protecting portfolios from
future regulatory and financial risk.
Contact: Olga Khroustaleva
T +44 (0)20 4572 6525
hello@buildingatlas.io
www.buildingatlas.io
4
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Facilities & Estate Management
The human touch: Our experts along with a
robust procurement framework can help you
achieve safe buildings and 100% compliance
New legislation,
like the Building
Safety Act (BSA
2022), means
responsibility to
ensure building
compliance has
grown, and the
need to get building
safety right cannot
be underestimated.
At Fusion21, our
Building Safety and Compliance Framework
is here to help, and this renewed framework,
coupled with our human approach, is what
sets us apart.
Suitable for all building types across the
public sector, the framework supports our
members to manage and maintain safe
buildings and addresses the challenges the
new BSA 2022 legislation brings.
For housing providers, compliance never
stops. Systems may cover 99.8% of
compliance, but it’s the final 0.2% that takes
the most effort, and often, it comes down to
people.
Besseges secures
BGF investment
to drive growth
Besseges, an active fire protection
and facilities management business
for the retail, commercial and
education sectors, has secured a
significant investment from BGF, one
of the largest and most experienced
growth capital investors in the UK
and Ireland.
Founded in 1976 and headquartered
in Dukinfield, Manchester, Besseges
has a heritage in installing fire
sprinkler systems. In 2022, the
business was acquired by CEO,
David Prendergast, and non
executive director, Graham Norfolk,
and has delivered significant
growth since then with headcount
expanding from five to 60 in that
period. Besseges has also expanded
its service offering to include: fire
protection installation, fire protection
service & maintenance, and
facilities maintenance across HVAC,
commercial heating and plumbing
equipment, and electrical systems.
The funding from BGF will allow
the business to continue its organic
growth and consider strategic M&A
as it grows from its North West and
Midlands heartlands to providing a
nationwide service.
You’re in safe
hands. Beyond
our procurement
frameworks, we
select contractors
from a network of
carefully vetted,
qualified, and trusted
suppliers. Crucially,
our procurement
team are not box
tickers in shiny suits.
They are technical
experts, and many have been gas engineers,
electricians, joiners, or housing professionals
themselves.
Procurement isn’t just red tape – it’s a route
to real-world outcomes. It sets the stage for
success or failure, and we’re here to do the
heavy lifting so you can focus on delivery.
Peter Beck, Framework Manager (Building
Safety and Compliance), said, “At Fusion21,
we believe the golden key to full compliance
is human connection. We work with the best
suppliers, and in addition, our team has
walked in your shoes and brings that insight
to every framework we create.
Commenting on the deal, David
Prendergast, CEO, said, “The active
fire protection market is growing
& Besseges is well-placed as one
of a small number of LPCB Level 4
providers of commercial fire sprinkler
systems. This allows us to provide
an end-to-end offering across
design, supply, installation service
& maintenance, & brings additional
reputational benefits which give us a
competitive advantage. Our facilities
management business (Besseges
FM) has seen phenomenal growth
since its launch 18 months ago. Our
commitment to offering a ‘best in
class service’ from both businesses
has seen our market share grow
month-on-month, our strategy is quite
simple – we deliver on our promises.”
www.bgf.co.uk
“Our new generation of the Building Safety
and Compliance Framework enables
members to benefit from a fast route to
market and flexible call-off options. Keen to
reflect changing landscapes, the framework
also offers a new lot dedicated to sprinkler
and mist systems, along with delivering social
value you can see. Let our people help your
people – and get you from 99.8% to 100%.”
Supporting the housing, local authority,
education, NHS, and blue light sectors, we
specialise in efficient and impactful public
sector procurement.
To date, we’ve saved our 1,100 members
£380 million, created over 13,550
employment outcomes, and generated more
than £200 million in social impact.
Our Lifts Framework, along with our Heating,
Renewables and Electricals Framework, is
also available to members, completing our
‘big six’ offer covering Asbestos, Fire Safety,
Legionella, Gas, Electrics, and Lifts.
More details about our Building, Safety and
Compliance Framework can be found at:
www.fusion21.co.uk/solutions-bsc
Avison Young’s new
senior appointments
Global real estate firm Avison
Young UK has announced a series
of senior appointments in its Real
Estate, Facilities, and Infrastructure
Management (REFIM) Business
Group. These new hires reflect
the company’s commitment to
enhancing delivery service and
driving innovation across its
operations.
Derick Jackson has been appointed
as Regional Head of London and
Southeast, Real Estate Management,
to lead the team, while continuing in
his role as Head of National Clients.
Jackson has been at Avison Young
for 25 years.
Helen Ewles has been appointed
as Regional Head for the Northeast
and Scotland. With 17 years at
Avison Young, Ewles managed a
range of properties and played a
key role in the East Pilgrim Street
redevelopment in Newcastle.
Heather Hill joins the firm as Head
of Transitions, with over 23 years of
experience in property management
and finance. Hill previously worked
for Cushman & Wakefield, where she
managed transitions of servicecharged
properties. At Pennycuick
Collins, she led a team of ten as
Head of Client Accounting.
Brian Reeves has been appointed
as Director, Occupier Facilities
Management, bringing 26 years of
experience across a diverse range
of sectors. Previously, Reeves held
senior roles at EMI, The Design
Museum, CBRE, and leading UK
wide FM services across L&G’s Build-
To-Rent sector.
James Callow and Martin McGrath
join the firm as Regional Workplace
Experience Managers. Callow
has been appointed to the North,
bringing a wealth of experience
with over seven years in property
management. McGrath has been
appointed to the South, with over
13 years of experience at Nuffield
Health, where he held senior roles
in customer experience, operational
management, and service delivery.
www.avisonyoung.co.uk
6
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

CAFM Maintenance
Management Software
Meeting the maintenance management needs of every sector, including:
Retail | Care Homes | Leisure Clubs | Race Courses | Charities
| Pub Chains | Office Management | Logistics
Mainteno is a complete, cost-effective
solution for task facilities management.
Whether it’s managing planned maintenance or dealing
with fault repairs, Mainteno simplifies the day-to-day
maintenance of almost any organisation. Our award-winning
CAFM software keeps everyone in the loop and archives all
your communication and documentation in one place. For
total control of your organisation’s assets, Mainteno also
seamlessly incorporates asset management and tracking.
Mainteno streamlines every aspect of the
maintenance management process, saving
your organisation time and money.
020 8798 3713 | sales@redro.uk | www.mainteno.com

Cleaning & Hygiene
Closed-loop hull
cleaning is a
regulatory imperative
The shipping industry faces
mounting regulatory pressure to
mitigate the transfer of invasive
species via hull biofouling. The
global detrimental impacts of sea
vomit (Didemnum vexillum) is just
one stark example of the damage
caused by unmanaged hull fouling.
The solution is clear: closed-loop hull
cleaning must become an industry
standard, writes Abigail
Robinson, Vice President
of Sustainability
at ECOsubsea,
applauding the IMO’s
recent decisive action
to align regulations
with operational best
practices.
The spread of invasive
species via ship hulls
is not a new concern for
shipping and regulators. While most
industry stakeholders recognise the
risks posed by biofouling – from
increased drag and fuel consumption
to environmental degradation and
potential regulatory penalties – there
remains a significant regulatory
gap. Unlike ballast water, which
is now subject to international
regulations, hull biofouling
remains under-regulated despite
profound implications for both
vessel performance and marine
ecosystems.
In-water hull cleaning introduces
additional pollution risks. Many
antifouling coatings work by leaching
heavy metal-based toxins to deter
biofouling growth. These
products are typically
polymer based and
a large source of
micro-plastic pollution
into the ocean over
time. It is estimated
that marine coatings
release over 210,000
tons of micro-plastic
annually in the EU alone.
Hull cleaning exacerbates
the problems as friction
increases the release of both toxins
and plastic. Even gentle, non-capture
cleaning methods contribute to local
contamination, exposing ports to
heavy metals and micro-plastics due
to the very nature of coating design.
Contact
www.ECOsubsea.com
BCIS reveals five-year
maintenance, cleaning
and energy forecast
Maintenance costs, as measured
by the BCIS All-in Maintenance
Cost Indices, are set to rise 17%
by 4Q 2029, according to the latest
forecast data from the Building Cost
Information Service (BCIS). Cleaning
costs, mainly driven by labour costs,
are expected to rise by 27.5% over
the forecast period, while BCIS
expects energy prices to fall by
6% over the same period.
Dr David Crosthwaite,
chief economist
at BCIS, said,
“The repair and
maintenance sector
faces a multitude
of challenges, from
increasing obligations
to maintain safe
environments to the
impact of ongoing economic
pressures and uncertainty. Increases
to employers’ National Insurance
contributions and the National
Living and Minimum Wage from
April will have a significant effect
on payroll expenses. As with the
rest of construction, the sector is
also constrained by skilled labour
shortages.”
Repair and maintenance output rose
by 8.5% in 2024, outperforming new
work output, which was down by
5.3% on 2023. Public housing repair
and maintenance increased 14.2%,
while private housing rose by 7%.
Non-housing repair and maintenance
increased by 8.5% annually. BCIS
forecasts repair and maintenance
output will grow by 8.2% over the
next five years.
Dr Crosthwaite added,
“We expect growth to
slow over the forecast
period. Public
spending is still
highly constrained
and will likely
impact the growth
of public housing,
public non-housing and
infrastructure repair and
maintenance. Private non-housing
repair and maintenance output is
likely to be affected by rising costs,
with economic uncertainty pushing
asset owners into postponing routine
maintenance and causing further
delays and backlogs.”
www.bcis.co.uk
8
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Historic tramline
columns & lanterns
restored to former glory
Located in the regency market town
of Cheltenham, Gloucestershire,
Prestbury Road is a site rich in
history. Once home to tramlines that
operated for three decades until
1931, today, the road is recognised
as a conservation area, retaining
four of the original columns and
brackets that previously carried tram
power lines, which are now used for
street lighting.
Recognising the importance of
preserving these historical features,
Gloucestershire County Council
set up a special fund and, working
closely with highways contractor,
Milestone Infrastructure, appointed
outdoor lighting manufacturer and
restoration specialist DW Windsor
to undertake the remedial work at its
UK factory.
The restoration process began with
the careful removal of each column
from the site. The DW Windsor team
meticulously stripped and cleaned
each column before applying a
durable Glass-Flake root coating
to the base. The entire column
assembly was then sealed and
treated with a high-specification
paint system in RAL 6027 Light
Green, the chosen colour scheme
for Cheltenham. This coating
ensures long-term protection
against corrosion, water ingress,
and rust.
The brackets were also chemically
stripped back to their galvanised
surfaces and repainted using the
same paint in RAL 6027 Light
Green. This process, carried out in
a controlled factory environment,
ensured that the paint was properly
applied around the intricate
scrollwork and clamping assemblies,
leaving no areas untreated.
www.dwwindsor.com
Vinod Pillai announced
as a product judge
Studio Lumen is proud to announce
that Vinod Pillai, Design Director,
has been selected as a product
judge for the 2025 Light Middle East
Awards. The event, widely acclaimed
within the lighting industry, honours
remarkable achievements in
lighting design, manufacturing and
integration across the Middle East.
The 2025 Light Middle East
Awards aim to spotlight significant
contributions to
the industry by
celebrating the
innovations and
talents that are
shaping the future
of lighting and
building technology.
The event is set
to recognise
individuals,
products, projects,
and companies
who have demonstrated exceptional
creativity, technical prowess, and
a commitment to pushing the
boundaries of lighting design and
technology.
Vinod Pillai, with his extensive
experience and innovative approach
to lighting design, is a fitting
addition to the panel of judges. As
Design Director of Studio Lumen,
Lighting & Electrical
Vinod has been instrumental in
leading numerous high-profile
projects, combining aesthetics with
functionality to create immersive and
outstanding lighting experiences.
Vinod stated, “It is an honour to be
part of the Light Middle East Awards,
which celebrates the best in the
industry and also encourages the
exchange of ideas and innovations
that will drive the future of lighting
technology. I
look forward to
reviewing the
groundbreaking
products that will
be showcased this
year.”
Nominations for the
2025 awards are
open until the 13th
of September 2024
with the winners
being announced on the 16th of
January 2025 at a Gala Dinner and
Awards ceremony. Light Middle
East goes beyond a typical awards
program, sparking the development
of future innovations that will
continue to brighten the world with
sustainable and inventive solutions.
Contact
https://studiolumen.co
Global lighting manufacturer with over
100 years of experience
Great British Lighting is a specialist lighting manufacturer with a reputation
and portfolio established over the last 100 years. Our work is primarily in
the manufacture of decorative light fittings for Public Buildings, Cathedral,
Museums and Theatres and International Theme Parks: from one-off
reproductions to large scale manufacture. All items are manufactured
and assembled at their premises in Fleetwood, Lancashire.
With an archive of over 35,000 products, drawings and specifications, Great
British Lighting can reproduce almost any luminaire from the last century
and earlier, employing the latest CAD technology coupled with traditional
craft skills. Great British Lighting also offers bespoke metalwork service
producing high quality items such as balustrade, ecclesiastical fittings
and door furniture.
Great British Lighting offer a comprehensive cleaning and restoration service,
working sensitively on conservation projects to bring lighting and metalwork
back to its original glory.
Recently completed the refurbishment of existing lighting at Rochdale
Town Hall.
Please visit www.greatbritishlighting.co.uk
sales@greatbritishlighting.co.uk | 01253 873503
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 9

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Panasonic’s sustainable
heat pumps power the
National Wool Museum
Panasonic recently provided a large
air to water heat pump system to the
National Wool Museum, located in a
large remote site based in South-
West Wales. Looking to achieve net
zero, the National Wool Museum
reached out to M&E contracting and
installation company FP Hurley, who
specified four Panasonic Aquarea
30kW TCAP M Series units, a first-ofits-kind
installation in the UK.
Replacing the old gas-fired boilers, to
make the old museum building more
energy efficient, the National Wool
Museum sourced funding from the
Welsh government via a grant that
supports a more sustainable heating
system. The initial site visit revealed
the system must fit within a limited
outdoor space and additionally, the
building was found to be surrounded
by residential neighbouring
properties, meaning the new system
needed to be quiet to prevent
disturbance. FP Hurley specified four
Panasonic Aquarea 30 kW M Series
units that could meet the capacity
required to easily connect to existing
internal infrastructure as well as
deliver space-saving and efficient
Interiors
heating to all the internal areas of
the museum. Selecting the hightemperature
T-CAP technology with
simple plug-and-play connection
capabilities helped to streamline
the project. The Panasonic M series
units were easily able to integrate
with the museum’s existing radiators,
to deliver a high-water outlet
temperature of up to 75°C and work
in outdoor temperatures as low as
-25°C. The units use R290, a natural
refrigerant with a Global Warming
Potential (GWP) of 0.02, ensuring the
system is more sustainable.
www.aircon.panasonic.eu
www.fphurley.co.uk
https://museum.wales/wool
Klima-Therm wins top
ACR News award
Leading air conditioning, heating
and air movement product
supplier Klima-Therm has won
the prestigious Commercial Air
Source Heat Pump of the Year
Award in the ACR News Awards
for the Rhoss POKER290, a
pioneering new range of hightemperature,
low-GWP aircooled
reversible heat pumps.
The victory was announced at
a glittering awards ceremony at
the Grand Connaught Rooms in
London on April 10th.
The POKER290, which features
silent, brushless EC axial fans
and other state-of-the-art
components, is designed to
produce exceptionally high-water
temperatures and a wide span of
operational limits.
It features high efficiency scroll
hermetic compressors and
natural, non-toxic, eco-friendly
R290 (propane) refrigerant gas
which has a GWP of less than
1, so it produces no harmful
greenhouse gas emissions and
there are no onerous F-gas
requirements.
Roberto Mallozzi, managing
director of Klima-Therm, said,
“We are incredibly proud to have
won the Commercial Air Source
Heat Pump Award for the Rhoss
POKER 290. This achievement
is a testament to the expertise,
hard work, and dedication of
our talented workforce and
the engineers at Rhoss. Their
unwavering commitment to
innovation and excellence has
enabled us to introduce a product
that sets new standards in energy
efficiency and eco-friendliness.”
www.klima-therm.co.uk
New Wall Protection catalogue from Gradus
showcases revamped colour options
Gradus is delighted to announce the launch
of a new 2025 edition of its Wall Protection
brochure, featuring a host of new colour
options for its leading SureProtect Pure ®
hygienic wall cladding.
The new resource showcases the extensive
range of solutions Gradus offer for
healthcare, education, industry, and retail
environments, which help to enhance
aesthetics while protecting internal walls,
corners and doors from damage.
Brontie Bennett, Marketing Product
Manager at Gradus, said, “With the launch
of our updated brochure and an expanded
palette of colour options, we’re offering
even more versatile wall protection
solutions.
“At Gradus, we’re committed to enhancing spaces
with wall protection that delivers both safety and
hygiene, without sacrificing design. This new
catalogue showcases what we’re able to achieve
when we work closely alongside architects and
specifiers.”
New for 2025, Gradus introduces 14 new smooth
satin finish colours to the SureProtect Pure ® range.
From the subtle greys of ‘Dove’ and ‘Rhino’ to
the aquatic hues of ‘Ocean’ and ‘Marine’, the new
additions build upon an already extensive suite
of colours, providing a shade for every design
scheme.
Whether it’s for healthcare, education or industry,
SureProtect Pure ® offers a hygienic, durable and
impact resistant wall protection solution, which
creates an impermeable barrier to moisture and
bacteria while protecting the walls underneath from
damage.
Specifying SureProtect Pure ® , along with Gradus’
comprehensive range of wall protection solutions
including SureProtect Endure ® and SureProtect
Design ® , is a straightforward process designed with
specifiers in mind.
To further streamline specification, all of Gradus’
wall protection products are readily available on
NBS Source as BIM Objects. This allows architects,
designers, and contractors to easily browse,
identify and integrate the most suitable wall
protection systems into their project plans with
confidence.
All of Gradus’ Wall Protection ranges have been
reviewed by the Dementia Services Development
Centre at the University of Stirling to assess their
usability within dementia-inclusive environments.
Each product’s page in the brochure describes
their compatibility and recommended uses in
these types of environments.
With over 25 years of experience in the
manufacturing, supply and installation of wall
protection systems in the UK, Gradus know a thing
or two about choosing the right products for a
range of sectors.
As experts in wall protection, Gradus ensure
all products are designed in-line with Building
Regulations and the latest national standards.
Whether it’s support selecting a wall protection
product, or help identifying a trusted installer,
Gradus can help. Their expert in-house installation
team provides national coverage, and all hold the
relevant qualifications, including NEBOSH, IOSH,
SMSTS or SSSTS.
Download your copy of the 2025 Wall Protection
brochure at: www.gradus.com – to request a
physical copy of the brochure, request samples or
speak with the Gradus team, please call
01625 428922 or email: imail@gradus.com
10
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Essential HVAC tool
For over 25 years, Fridgenius has been
dedicated to manufacturing and supplying the
Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet to national
and international distributors and partners.
The past 24 months have been particularly
successful, with the company expanding its
customer base, forging new partnerships,
and earning recognition through the SME
UK Enterprise Award and several other
Innovation & Excellence Awards.
Suitable for usage in refrigeration,
air-conditioning, water, oil and gas
installations, the Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet from Fridgenius
features a compact design and a
high usability application that has
been widely praised by engineers
across the HVAC industry.
One review from a
Refrigerator Engineer stated,
“A service engineer received
a call from a milk processing
plant saying that the plant
was warming-up. He found
that the solenoid coil had
burned out and by using the
Fridgenius Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet,
he was able to run it permanently – setting it
to cut-out under pressure. This saved 14,000
litres of milk!”
enabling the armature to open and close.
It can also be used effortlessly to recover
refrigerant from decommissioned systems
where power has already been removed.
Additionally, in urgent situations where a
solenoid valve coil has failed, it serves as a
vital temporary solution, keeping the system
operational until a replacement coil can be
sourced and installed.
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Designed and manufactured in the UK,
the Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet
from Fridgenius offers a dependable,
practical solution – making it an
essential tool for any HVAC/R service
engineer. This pioneering product
was specifically developed to address
the challenge of operating solenoid
valves in systems without power.
With its compact size, ergonomic
design, and simple operation, it’s
easy to see why it has earned
widespread acclaim.
The range includes five pocketsized
models: 10mm, 15mm,
18mm, 20mm, and 24mm. Each
is engineered for ease of use,
allowing electrically operated solenoid valves
to be quickly and effectively converted into
hand-operated valves – proving that this small
tool has a truly powerful impact.
It can also be used for testing and
troubleshooting, or for manually activating
and controlling direct solenoid valves, pilotoperated
2-way solenoid valves, 3-way reclaim
valves, and 4-way reversing valves.
The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet is ideal
for businesses looking to minimise downtime
and maintain continuous production. If you
have specific requirements, Fridgenius can
customise the magnets to meet your needs
– including colour options and branding/logo
printing. Best of all, there are no regulatory
requirements for this product.
T 02381 550189
enquiries@fridgenius.com
www.fridgenius.com
Its unique and innovative design – resembling
a cotton reel – allows it to be placed directly
onto a solenoid valve (with the coil removed),
The Solenoid Valve Operating Magnet solves the problem of
operating a solenoid valve when a system is without power.
The Small Tool with
a Big Attraction
The Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet is
a tool that converts
Electrically Operated
Solenoid Valves into
hand-operated valves.
The Solenoid Valve
Operating Magnet
assists during
the installation,
recovery of
refrigerants, and
commissioning and
decommissioning
of plant and
machinery.
When placed onto a
valve stem (with the coil
removed), it causes the
armature to open or close.
This enables service
engineers to operate
solenoid valves manually
in refrigeration, air
conditioning, water, oil,
gas, and fuel installations.
The magnet is
the same shape
and size as a
large cotton reel.
02381 550189 www.fridgenius.com
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 11

Water Management
What’s Smart about bury
Smart meters are seen
as a significant part of
the solution to reducing
domestic water usage.
Thames Water has
recorded post installation
savings of 12-17%.
Would you put a smartphone in here and expect it to work?
However, existing
infrastructure does
not provide the best
environment for this new
technology.
Following multiple trials,
all water companies are
now working on plans
for advanced metering infrastructure,
where all new connections or meters
use the latest generation of smart
meters.
The issues raised in the early trials has
led much of the UK water industry to
recognise that the new technology
meters need a better environment than
the traditional hole in the ground.
Experience has shown that the most
effective method of installing the
advanced metering infrastructure is to
locate the meter above ground.
The Groundbreaker water management
system co-locates the water meter
on the exterior wall of the dwelling,
alongside gas and electric meters,
providing a perfect location for high
technology meters.
In addition to providing a better
environment for the meter, locating the
meter above ground has the additional
12
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

ing a Smart Meter?
Water Management
benefits of readability for the consumer,
extended signal transmission and easy
meter exchange.
While developers see the short-term
advantage of lower unit costs for
traditional boundary boxes, the ongoing
costs of reading meters and maintaining
supplies can be higher for supply and
housing management.
Future proofing the network
Above ground meter housings do
have a higher unit cost than traditional
boundary boxes. However, when
factoring in installation cost the
differential is under £15 per unit and
that’s before considering the long-term
reliability of boundary boxes.
The House Builders Federation have
determined that 53% of underground
installations require re-work.
With an average repair cost of £268.27,
the average re-work cost per boundary
box installed is approaching £150.
These failures lead to leakage and water
waste. WRc estimates 1 in 600 property
connections suffer from leakage.
Working on a predicted 90 day repair
timeline, this leads to an estimated loss
of 36m 2 .
By comparison the Groundbreaker
System has no recorded re-work
costs, where the unit was correctly
installed – future proofing the network
and minimising the risk of re-work and
developing future leaks.
Designing out leak paths
A leak on a pipe joint upstream of the
water meter results in lost revenue to
the water provider as well as the loss of
a precious resource.
Groundbreaker supporting water’s smart meter roll out
With Boundary boxes there is a lack of
visibility of this leakage and requires
assessments of losses from water meter
data and investigations in the field to
listen for leakage.
The unique location of the
Groundbreaker water management
has the additional benefit of allowing
for an unjointed water supply, hence
maintaining the integrity of the supply.
The use of an uninterrupted supply
has been recognised as best practice
by Water UK and the Home Builders
Federation. This minimises the risk of
future leakage on the service pipe.
Steve Leigh, Managing Director
of Groundbreaker, commented,
“Portsmouth Water have demanded
surface mounted meter housings as the
standard required for all new properties
for over 15 years. Working with them
we have established the effectiveness
and reliability of Groundbreaker.”
He continued, “With the need to
maximise the effectiveness of smart
metering programmes, I can’t see that
there is a viable alternative – putting
smart technology in a hole in the
ground just does not work.”
So for future proofing water supply and
reducing management costs of water
supply, working with developers to
install above ground meters is the long
term solution.
Contact
www.groundbreaker.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 13

The Workplace Event Review – Top Exhibitors
A record-breaking showcase of
innovation, insight, and leadership
A standout new feature for 2025 was the launch
of the Cleaning Innovation Hub, powered by the
British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICSc). This
immersive space placed the spotlight firmly on
the future of cleaning and FM, with live demos
from leading suppliers and inspiring sessions
revealing how innovation is redefining hygiene,
sustainability, and efficiency in today’s workplace.
Across all three days, it proved a must-visit
destination for anyone looking to stay ahead of
industry trends and tech.
The fourth edition of The Workplace Event, held
from 8-10 April 2025 at the NEC Birmingham,
welcomed 7,564 workplace and facilities
management professionals through its doors. As
a hub of forward-thinking content and practical
innovation, this year’s event once again proved to
be a catalyst for change – empowering attendees
with the tools, insights, and connections to
reimagine the future of work.
With 122 leading industry exhibitors, the show
offered a vibrant showcase of workplace and
FM solutions aimed at enhancing strategy,
productivity, and employee experience. Located
at the heart of the UK, The Workplace Event
combined interactive features, powerful thought
leadership, and real-world applications to become
a go-to destination for workplace professionals
nationwide.
Also making waves was the debut of the
Collaboration Zone, sponsored by Logovisual – a
buzzing hub of fresh thinking and shared ideas.
Designed to spark meaningful conversations,
the space tackled some of the industry’s most
pressing themes, from mental health and
sustainability to digital transformation. Attendees
were encouraged to connect, co-create, and
challenge convention, ultimately championing
a more resilient and forward-focused workplace
culture.
The Institute of Workplace and Facilities
Management (IWFM) played a central role in this
year’s programme, hosting high-impact sessions
within the Workplace Leaders Summit Panel
discussions included:
s ‘Creating a Thriving Workplace: Supporting
Veterans in FM for Stronger Wellbeing &
Culture’
s ‘Shaping Tomorrow’s Workspaces – Outlook
2025: Advantage WFM? Insights from a
Business and Economic Perspective’
Innovative fitness in the office
Corsaidi Fitness
recently exhibited at
this year’s Workplace
Event. Showcasing
their innovative
approach to health
and wellness and
presenting a talk
on how senior
leadership can best
utilise their in-office
gyms.
Corsaidi Fitness
designs and manages
corporate gyms
built to enhance employee benefits, reduce
healthcare costs and promote health and
wellness. Headed by co-founders Hash and
Jason, Corsaidi Fitness aims to give client’s
employees the best health and wellness
services, accessible at their convenience,
to save businesses money and increase
productivity.
Employing a unique design and development
philosophy, Corsaidi Fitness creates bespoke
facilities unique to the needs of their
clients. By gaining a deep understanding of
client’s businesses, values and employee
demographics; Corsaidi Fitness fully
integrates these insights into its design.
Using over 20 years of expertise in the fitness
industry to deliver unique concepts that
challenge conventional wisdom and inspire.
Corsaidi Fitness
commitment to
overall health and
wellness extends
beyond the gym
floor too. Providing
personalised nutrition
programs based
on technology-led
health monitoring,
designed by inhouse
nutritionists.
Corsaidi also brings
its expertise directly
into the workplace
by offering at-desk
posture advice, company-wide challenges
and special events such as mental health
awareness seminars, women’s health
specialists and on-site physiotherapists.
After constructing a client’s gym or wellness
facility, Corsaidi Fitness hires only the most
qualified fitness professionals to manage
it. All Corsaidi’s employees receive regular
and comprehensive CIMSPA-accredited
training to deliver exceptional fitness
classes, personal training and advice to gym
members. Resulting in a team that engages
with members daily, supporting them to build
confidence and achieve their fitness goals.
One of Corsaidi Fitness’ core values is
consistently evolving to the ever-changing
needs of its members. By constantly
IWFM also hosted a dedicated lounge, offering a
collaborative space for members from its regions
and special interest groups to connect, share
knowledge, and build lasting relationships.
Coming up next on the calendar is one of the most
anticipated events in the industry, The Workplace
Leaders Top 50 celebration. Taking place on 16
July 2025, the event returns to the Hurlingham
Club in London. This flagship gathering will
unite the brightest minds and boldest voices
in workplace and facilities management, from
established leaders to rising stars.
The Workplace Event returns next year to
Birmingham’s NEC from 28-30 April 2026. This
is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s
event, listed here in alphabetical order: Corsaidi
Fitness. Further details can be found on this page.
www.theworkplaceevent.com
reviewing the market, and researching
advancements in fitness training, the
company ensures it is always on the cutting
edge of fitness developments. With all
Corsaidi’s fitness professionals, regardless
of experience, undergoing CIPD training
and qualifications to maintain the highest
standards.
Corsaidi Fitness gyms offer more than just a
workout. By working in tandem with clients,
Corsaidi Fitness can elevate in-office fitness
facilities, bringing the best out of employees
across the country and promoting health and
wellness in the workplace.
For more on Corsaidi Fitness, see below:
M 07432 567616
M 07736 312817
info@corsaidifitness.com
www.corsaidifitness.com
14
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Homebuilding & Renoating Show Review – Top Exhibitors
The UK’s best show for anyone looking
to create their dream home
The Show takes great pride in offering
masterclasses and seminars that are
incredibly educational. The basics of selfbuilding
as well as sophisticated energysaving
techniques are covered.
These workshops aim to give participants
the skills they need to confidently handle the
challenges of do-it-yourself projects.
For professionals and homeowners looking
to turn their living areas into individualised
havens, the Homebuilding & Renovating Show
2025, held at Birmingham’s NEC from 20-23
March 2025, is a crucial occasion.
The Homebuilding & Renovating Show
has been the mainstay for people who are
enthusiastic about home renovation for more
than thirty years.
With a long history of introducing attendees
to professionals in the field, the 2025 edition
carried on this custom by providing a
thorough platform for education, networking,
and learning about the newest developments
in home building and design.
At the show’s Advice Centre, visitors could
have an experienced planner or architect look
over remodelling plans. Here, professionals
offered individualised, unbiased advice to help
visitors polish their concepts and overcome
any obstacles they may encounter.
With hundreds of exhibitors in one location,
the show provided a significantly better
experience for comparing services, finding
new products, and sourcing materials. The
exhibition hall was a gold mine of ideas and
workable solutions, featuring everything from
innovative kitchen designs to environmentally
friendly construction materials.
Premium goods and services were
surprisingly affordable for attendees thanks to
special show offers. These agreements could
greatly lessen the project’s financial burden,
enabling visitors to more efficiently allocate
resources.
In addition to the material resources, the show
cultivated a community of people who share
similar interests. Finding support and gaining
insights during a homebuilding or renovation
journey can be greatly facilitated by
interacting with other attendees, exchanging
stories, and forming relationships.
The show returns next year to Birmingham’s
NEC from 19-22 March 2026. This is our
pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s
Birmingham show, listed here in alphabetical
order: Glazing Deluxe. Further details can be
found on this page. But the Homebuilding
& Renovating show is held seven times
throughout the year (see website for details)
and the next show is at Surrey’s Sandown
Park from 27-28 June 2025.
https://national.homebuildingshow.co.uk
www.homebuildingshow.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 15

Construction & Infrastructure Training Company of the Month
Leading in learning
and development
In this issue of Building & Facilities News, we
are pleased to feature Synergie Training as our
Construction & Infrastructure Training Company
of the Month.
Founded in 2009,
Synergie Training has
established itself as
a leading provider
of construction and
infrastructure training.
Trusted by major
industry players
such as HS2, Balfour
Beatty, Scottish
Power, National Grid, and Severn Trent Water,
it partners with large construction firms,
infrastructure providers, local authorities, and
housing associations to support the management
of property portfolios and ensure regulatory
compliance.
With over 15 years of experience and a network
of more than 50 expert trainers, Synergie delivers
accredited training across a wide range of
subjects, including CDM Regulations, the Building
Safety Act (BSA), Temporary Works, and NEC
Contracts. These training courses are specifically
tailored to white-collar professionals, focusing on
roles involving compliance, safety, and project
management rather than hands-on, trade-based
instruction.
Last year, Synergie Training experienced
significant transformation following its acquisition
by the TTC Group, a leading competency
management specialist serving multiple sectors.
This strategic move allowed Synergie to
centralise its back-office operations at TTC’s Head
Office in Telford. It also expanded Synergie’s
presence in regulated training markets and
enhanced its course delivery options – whether
online via MS Teams and Zoom, in-person at
client sites, or at regional training venues.
TTC Group has also recently acquired Think
Eleven Ltd, a specialist international provider of
competency management software and services.
This acquisition comes only 18 months after
that of Synergie Training, and reinforces TTC’s
commitment to helping organisations across
diverse regulated sectors.
Think Eleven Ltd developed SkillStation, a
platform that is used by organisations to assess,
track, and manage employee competency
including safety-critical environments. This new
addition to the TTC Group will only enhance
TTC’s future plans as it looks to expand into new
verticals and deliver solutions to its clients.
There have also been major changes in the
industry since Grenfell that Synergie has had
to overcome, such as the introduction of the
Building Safety Act and revisions to other
regulations. Recently, a Netflix documentary
highlighted these changes, along with the
establishment of the Building Safety Regulator,
prompting government interventions aimed at
enhancing effectiveness.
To help businesses navigate the complexities of
the legislation, Synergie has launched a range
of new Building Safety
Act training courses,
targeted at increasing
understanding of
The Act and the
secondary legislation
improving construction
competency and
meeting safety
obligations.
Synergie is amongst
the first to offer accredited training on the
Building Safety Act, enabling its clients to stay
ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field.
The Building Safety Act Training course helps
professionals manage compliance and safety in
high-risk buildings under UK legislation. From
one-day primers
to two-day APSaccredited
deep
dives, this range
of courses are
targeted at dutyholder
roles such
as Health & Safety
Directors, Company
Directors, Designers,
Structural Engineers,
Project Managers
of construction
companies, architects and housebuilders.
Through offering courses and training on
subjects like this, Synergie is helping to build a
robust safety culture within the industry, that will
effectively help companies to improve recordkeeping,
have greater clarity around roles, and
establish proactive risk management solutions to
ultimately safeguard all building users.
From AI in Construction to Oil and Gas Training,
NEC3 & NEC4 Training, and many more,
Synergie’s vast range of Training courses
are highly regarded for their ability to deliver
engaging, accessible, and practical learning
experiences. Participants consistently highlight
the clarity with which complex concepts are
explained, supported by well-prepared materials
such as slides, handouts, & additional resources.
Each course is thoughtfully tailored to suit a
range of experience levels and professional
backgrounds, ensuring relevance across the
board. Real-life case studies and breakout
sessions reinforce key lessons, while the balance
between theory and practical application keeps
learners actively involved.
What’s more, the structured content not
only maintains engagement but also boosts
confidence and deepens understanding of
regulations, best practices, and compliance in
participants’ respective roles. Many attendees
have recommended the training to colleagues
and have expressed interest in taking further
courses, underlining the lasting value and impact
of Synergie’s offerings.
Currently, Synergie Training is experiencing
strong growth, and is keen to continue expanding
its sales team and recruiting additional trainers
to meet rising demand. To further solidify its
position as the UK’s market leader in Building
Safety Act (BSA) training, the company is actively
developing new courses, including a dedicated
Principal Contractor programme.
Beyond BSA, Synergie is also broadening its
portfolio with additional courses aligned to its
IEMA accreditation, focusing on environmental
sustainability. In
parallel, it aims to
grow its presence
in the renewables
sector by expanding
training offerings
related to both
onshore and offshore
wind, supporting the
industry’s transition
to a greener future.
T 01463 227580
enquiries@synergietraining.co.uk
www.synergietraining.co.uk
16
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Golding and Octopus
Real Estate complete
transfer of 180 homes
Maidstone-based Golding Homes
(Golding) has finalised the transfer
of 180 affordable homes to
NewArch Homes, a registered
provider of social housing owned
by a fund managed by Octopus
Real Estate, a leading UK specialist
real estate investor and lender.
Located in Bexley, Dartford,
Sevenoaks, and Wealden, the mix
of 111 affordable rent, 68 shared
ownership and 1 leasehold houses
and flats are all between 2 and 6
years old. Housing management
services will now be delivered by
Southern Housing.
Today’s news is the first major
deployment by the Octopus
Affordable Housing Strategy,
which aims to accelerate the
much-needed delivery of quality,
affordable homes in the UK. By
both funding the construction
of new housing and making
strategic acquisitions of highquality
existing stock, the strategy
works to increase the total
capital available for the supply of
affordable housing.
With the capital raised through
its first close in December now
committed and a significant
element now fully invested, the
strategy has demonstrated its
ability to deploy funds efficiently
and quickly, into high-quality
homes with reputable partners,
to help address a key societal
challenge.
www.goldinghomes.org.uk
Fun, safe and
creative soft play
With over 40 years of experience
in children’s play, Playcraft have
established themselves as the
premier soft play provider and
industry expert in this rapidly
growing sector.
Playcraft design, manufacture,
install and maintain innovative
trampoline parks, adventure play
areas, inflatable parks, Ninja Warrior
courses and more for the indoor
leisure industry worldwide.
Playcraft has developed a global
reputation for creative design and
product quality with an unrivalled
turn key service. Priding themselves
on inclusivity, Playcraft’s designs
incorporate elements like
wheelchair-friendly areas and
sensory zones to aid neurodiverse
children.
All Playcraft’s products are
manufactured at its headquarters
in South Wales and it is one of
the only companies in the market
who can design, manufacture
and install multiple facilities. By
producing every component of its
Project Management
soft play installations, Playcraft can
guarantee the highest quality with
safety at the core.
Playcraft also offers free help and
advice when setting up new soft
play ventures. From business
plans and planning applications;
to finance and insurance, Playcraft
is there for every step of the
process. Leveraging their years of
experience to find the right solution
for any client.
For more on Playcraft, see below:
T 01792 422818
enquiries@playcraftgroup.co.uk
www.playcraftgroup.co.uk
External Works & Buildings
Shou Sugi Ban ® :
Adding timeless style
to every exterior
Perfectly blending with other
building materials, charred timber
cladding is the exterior finish of
choice for contemporary builds and
heritage renovations.
Timber is recognised as a
sustainable, thermally insulating and
beautiful building material. Yet, as a
natural product, it needs protection
from the elements.
Exterior Solutions Ltd looked to
the Japanese timber preservation
technique, yakisugi. This controlled
charring process increases
biological resistance which includes:
s Minimising the effect of UV light,
which causes weathering &
fading in untreated timbers
s Limiting water ingress to reduce
expansion, contraction & warping
s Preventing deterioration caused
by insects, mould & fungi
The result is a low-maintenance
exterior timber cladding. Having
mastered this art, Exterior Solutions
Ltd developed the Shou Sugi Ban ®
range. For over a decade, the
specialist team has handcrafted
responsibly-sourced timbers in
their Buckinghamshire workshop.
From light, smooth brushed, to the
traditional black crackled texture,
this cladding offers the ideal finish
to any build.
To ensure compliance with UK &
EU building regulations, Exterior
Solutions Ltd applies a treatment.
Independently tested, Shou Sugi
Ban ® is certified as a fire-rated
timber.
Specified by architects for urban &
rural developments, this premium
cladding is a market-leading product.
T 01494 711800
https://exterior.supplies/charredtimber-cladding
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 17

Building Products & Services
Zest unveils new range of Acoustic Wall Panels
Zest Wall Panels, part of Swish
Building Products, has announced
an extension to its range with the
launch of its new contemporary
Acoustic Wall Panels.
Manufactured with real wood
veneers and rigid, fully recycled
plastic backing, these stylish
slatted wall panels are specifically
designed to absorb noise and
improve sound quality.
With the real wood veneer
covering all three sides of each
slat, these panels are beautiful
from every angle. They are
available in four timeless shades, Washed
Oak, Oiled Oak, Ash Grey, and Contemporary
Oak, allowing them to blend seamlessly
into any style of interior design. Available
as single panels and standing 2.6m high,
Zest Acoustic Wall Panels are easy to install
and ideally suited to both modern and older
properties and any size and shape of space.
“An increase in customer demand for a
quality product, together with
a desire to extend our range
led us to create our new Zest
Acoustic Wall panels,” explains
Brian Neville, National Account
Manager at Zest.
“Our aim is to offer a high
specification wall panel which
beautifully combines style,
substance, and sustainability.
With their stylish looks, industry
leading acoustic qualities, and
enviable sustainability credentials,
we believe we have achieved this
with our acoustic wall panels.”
Further information about Zest's new
premium Acoustic Wall Panels can be found
at: https://zestwallpanels.co.uk/wallpanels/acoustic-wall-panels
or by calling
01827 317200.
Updated SterlingOSB
Zero CPD from
West Fraser
West Fraser has produced a
new CPD presentation which
highlights the features and
benefits of the ever-popular
SterlingOSB Zero panel and its
variations. Available on RIBA’s
CPD website, the video, with
narration, begins with learning
aims and ends with learning
outcomes.
The different types of
SterlingOSB Zero – OSB3, T&G
and PrimedPlus – are clearly
described, alongside their
benefits and details of how
each is made. Applications of
SterlingOSB Zero are explained
– roofing, flooring, timber frame
– while real-life case studies are
picture-captioned.
The presentation also highlights
West Fraser’s certification; CEmarked,
BBA-approved, FSC ®
(C012533). It also explains how
builders and developers can
adhere to building regulations,
with SterlingOSB Zero, including
sound, structural and energy.
David Connacher, Marketing
Manager, concludes, “We
have developed an interesting,
easy-to-understand CPD which
encompasses all you need to
know; we identify what OSB is,
understand the performance
and credentials against
competitive materials, recognise
the environmental benefits,
and study the recommended
applications of each variant.”
For further information,
call 01786 812921 or visit:
https://uk.westfraser.com
Sync Energy
unveils ‘Flow’
Sync Energy, part of the Luceco
Group, has launched ‘Flow’, a nextgeneration,
fully integrated home
energy system that unites hybrid
inverters, modular battery storage,
solar power diverters, and EV
chargers, all intelligently connected
via the intuitive Sync Energy app.
With an increasing
focus on energy
independence and
smarter sustainability,
Sync Energy Flow
arrives as a flexible,
future-ready ecosystem
for residential energy
management, ideal for
both new builds and
retrofit projects.
One connected
System, total control
At the heart of the Sync
Energy Flow range is
a modular platform
built for scalability and simplicity,
available as individual components
or in pre-bundled all-in-one kits for
ease, all brought together in one
easy to use app.
Key System Components:
s Hybrid Inverters available in
3.6kW or 6kW, wall-mountable or
stackable. These enable real-time
solar use, battery integration, and
grid import/export.
s Modular Battery Storage is
available in 5.12kWh battery
packs, expandable up to
35.84kWh, offering 90% depth
of discharge using advanced
LiFePO4 technology, renowned
for safety, long
lifespan.
s Solar Power
Diverters
intelligently
redirect surplus
solar generation to
prevent wastage,
ideal for water
heating, boosting
self-consumption.
s Combined with
EV Chargers for
the full package,
including the ultraslim,
wall-integrated
Link Charger for
discreet, socketed charging, or
the customisable Wall Charger
2, available in socketed or
tethered, both offering dynamic
7.4kW charging with OCPP 1.6J
compatibility and no earth rod
required.
https://sync.energy/flow
18
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Building Products & Services
Recycled plastic educational furniture
maintenance-free outdoor classroom products
Using Recycled Plastic Wood and Recycled Mixed
Plastic Lumber collected from UK Homes and
Businesses – Eco friendly and Sustainable
Recycled plastic lumber or recycled plastic
wood, is made from taking your waste plastic and
processing it for reuse. 66% less energy is needed
than is required in production of virgin plastic, and
it releases a whopping 250% less carbon dioxide.
We turn this recycled plastic into aesthetically
pleasing, useful products, for the general public,
construction companies, local authorities,
educational institutions and hospitals all over the
world.
All our products are recycled as well as being
recyclable. This is the ideal of recycling. It’s a
closed loop.
All the plastic products we use as consumers
should be capable of recycling indefinitely making
for a sustainable future for our children and a
cleaner less toxic environment.
In some cases we also re-use rather than recycle.
For example, we have a Recycled Plastic Compost
Tumbler/Compost Bin – appropriately named,
‘The Compost Creator’. For this we reuse a food
grade plastic drum previously used to transport
food products.
Re-use is vastly superior to simply recycling
There is no significant consumption of energy, as
there is no manufacturing process involving heavy
use of energy. We just drill a few
holes in the drum and clean it up
as best we can.
Both recycling plastic as well as reusing it keeps
large amounts of plastic waste out of expensive
and now difficult to find landfill. This results in
a lower carbon footprint and reduced human
contribution to global warming and climate
change.
Recycled Mixed Plastic Lumber, recycled HDPE
and recycled polystyrene (which is the primary
waste plastic in our recycled plastic wood or
recycled plastic timber) are what we make all our
products out of.
These, often brightly coloured, Recycled plastic
products are extremely durable and attractive.
They will maintain their appearance for many
years to come.
Our highly acclaimed Compost Tumbler, or
Compost Bin, Raised Beds, Garden Planters, 2
and 3 Seater Garden Benches, Sports Benches,
Play Dens, and other Outdoor Classroom
products are not flimsy and light, but robust and
solid enough not to blow away in a gale.
If you would like to pay
us a visit, you will be very
welcome.
Our manufacturing unit
is in Burnley, Lancashire.
We deliver nationwide, but
you may be nearby and
can pop in to see us. Best
to call 01282 861325 first
though. We’re close enough for a visit if you are in
Nelson, Foulridge, Lane Bottom, Colne, Bradford,
Clitheroe, Accrington, Blackburn, Keighley,
Newchurch, Preston, Rochdale, Huddersfield,
Shipley, Dewsbury, Castleford, Harrogate,
Wakefield, Darwen, Leyland, Halifax, Bacup,
Hebden Bridge, Barnoldswick, and West Yorkshire.
Manchester or Bolton are a stone’s throw away.
Come and see our showroom and view these
elegant recycled plastic products close up.
Our plastic wood will amaze you. This recycled
plastic looks and feels like genuine wood but is
superior in design and quality to traditional wood
lumber or timber products.
See Eco-Table and Bench Outdoor Furniture Set:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAdixaIBHYs
Please visit: www.kedeleducation.co.uk
The Zero Maintenance Alternative to Wood
Recycled Plastic
• 100% recycled and recyclable
• Impervious to fungi, algae, insects
• Never rots, splinters or cracks
• Graffiti resistant
• UV Protected
• Eco-friendly and low carbon
• 100% maintenance free
• Lasts a lifetime
Please contact us on 01282 861325
sales@kedel.co.uk | www.kedel.co.uk
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 19

Health & Safety News
Protecting people and the planet
PULSAR ® and Morgan Sindall share well-earned
reputations for focusing on people, performance
and positive change. Where personal safety
is paramount to the construction industry and
its workforce, PULSAR ® has supplied high
performance, hi-visibility protective clothing to the
talented teams at Morgan Sindall Construction for
almost a decade, keeping site-based individuals
protected in their place of work.
Though with innovation, comes change. And
following a successful period of development
and testing, PULSAR ® launched its signature Life
collection in 2023, a range of environmentally
responsible, hi-visibility garments designed
with Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certified
fabrics and materials. With durability, inclusivity
and circularity at the forefront of its design, the
Life collection is helping conscious adopters
New data
reveals
escalating cost
of inaction
A new report has shed light on the growing
financial and operational crisis facing NHS
estates, with new data revealing that delaying vital
healthcare infrastructure projects can increase
costs by over 140% in a decade. This reinforces the
urgent need for decisive action.
Five years ago, it was noted that a three-year delay
in NHS estates projects could spike costs by more
than 40%. However, recent challenges – including a
global pandemic, economic turmoil and geopolitical
tensions – have exacerbated these risks. The
maintenance backlog for NHS facilities has doubled
in the past decade, with high-risk backlog items
skyrocketing by 500%.
According to an in-depth study by the Institute for
Fiscal Studies, the required investment to eliminate
the NHS England maintenance backlog has soared
from £5.5 billion in 2013-14 to a staggering £12.5
billion in 2022-23. This underscores the immense
financial burden that delays impose on the
healthcare system.
The period from March 2020 to March 2024 saw
dramatic increases in building material costs, with
pre-cast concrete up by 85%, insulating materials
by 58% and metal doors and windows by 53%.
These rising costs further stress the importance of
timely investments.
To read the report Deliver or Delay? The Escalating
Cost of Inaction on NHS trusts and GP estates,
visit: www.primeplc.com/insights/deliver-ordelay-the-escalating-cost-of-inaction-on-nhstrusts-and-gp-estates
reduce the environmental impact of PPE while
supporting wearer comfort and safety with its
practical designs. With this in mind, Morgan
Sindall Construction was eager to become the first
construction company to put the new PULSAR ® Life
collection through its paces.
‘Monty and Molly’ air quality
monitors from EarthSense
EarthSense, the air quality
expert, today announced that
it is working with Cheltenham
Borough Council to evidence
the impact of air quality
initiatives such as the ‘Care for
our Air’ campaign, currently
in place across Cheltenham,
and to help educate local
schoolchildren about the
impact of air pollution. The
two ZephyrÒ air quality
monitors, which have been
named ‘Monty’ and ‘Molly’, are
supplied by EarthSense and
owned by the Council. They
are touring schools around
Cheltenham and surrounding
areas, as part of the Council’s
Care for our Air educational campaign.
The Care for our Air project aims to raise
awareness of air pollution and support schools in
reducing pollution at their gates.
Monty and Molly have been
installed at eight local schools
to date, providing detailed air
quality measurements every
15 minutes of NO 2 , NO, O 3 ,
PM1, PM2.5, PM10. The data
is viewable on EarthSense’s
MyAir ® air quality platform
where teachers, children and
parents can log on to see the
real-time air quality data plus
additional meteorological
data such as temperature,
humidity, wind and rain to
provide additional context. So
far, over 3,000 schoolchildren
have attended workshops on
the effects of air pollution and
the Council is targeting around 20 schools to get
involved with the campaign.
www.earthsense.co.uk
Selco introduces health check
scheme for colleagues
One of the UK’s leading builders
merchants has launched a new
pilot scheme to offer free ‘MOT’
health checks for its staff and
potentially help them avoid
serious illness.
Selco Builders Warehouse has
introduced health screenings for
colleagues based at its central
Support Centre in Wythall, near
Birmingham.
Dozens of colleagues have
already taken advantage of
the scheme – which is run in
conjunction with health and
wellbeing specialists Westfield
Health – in the opening two days of activity.
There are plans in place to extend the offering to
Selco’s entire workforce of nearly 3,000 people
across 75 branches around the UK if the trial
proves successful.
As part of a company-wide workwear upgrade in
December 2023, PULSAR ® supplied 1,400 Morgan
Sindall Construction wearers with Life Collection
garments, including reversible puffer jackets,
stretch combat trousers, insulated parkas and
brand new breathable, class 4 waterproof shell
jackets and overtrousers, each conforming to the
EN ISO:20471 standard. The range incorporates
environmentally responsible recycled polyester,
nominated recycled linings, trims and Bluesign
approved treatments and is further assisting
Morgan Sindall Construction in reducing waste
streams across the business, where the company
has already diverted 96.7% of construction waste
from landfill in the past 12 months.
Contact
www.pulsaruk.com
www.morgansindallconstruction.com
The programme has been
launched to coincide with Know
Your Numbers Week, the UK’s
biggest blood pressure testing
and awareness event.
Sally Kerr, HR Director at Selco,
said, “Ensuring we have a
team of engaged and healthy
colleagues is a key priority for us
at Selco and these health checks
are the latest important initiative
in us delivering on that.
“It’s vital that everyone keeps
on top of their physical health
and wellbeing with regular
checks, but it’s not always easy
to achieve and making health appointments is
something which often gets put on the backburner
due to other pressures.”
Contact
www.selcobw.com
20
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Classifieds
Hand Dryer Installation
Vehicle Compliance System
Fire-Rated Glass
The world’s first
multi-dryer
Plug & Play®
platform
hygiene@velairgroup.com
01425 616103 https://velair.co.uk
Construction Hoists
Ventilation Specialist
THE UK’S MOST
SPECIFIED
FIRE-RATED
GLASS COMPANY
FOR A REASON
GLASS WHEN YOU NEED IT
FIRE-RATED | ACOUSTIC
LAMINATED | TOUGHENED
IGUS | INTEGRAL BLINDS
SUPPLY & FIT
#TRUSTTHEEXPERTS
0121 667 9089
WWW.FIREGLASSUK.COM
Joinery
01799 599995
dee@bluerunltd.co.uk www.bluerunltd.co.uk
Advanced Hygienic Protocol
Beacons & Feeder Pillars
Beacons & Feeder Pillars
hygiene@velairgroup.com
01425 616103 | https://velair.co.uk
EST 1982
Call Sales Team on 0333 666 2122
or info@fisherandcompany.co.uk
or www.fisherandcompany.co.uk
to view our range of products
Projects
WE ADVISE, DESIGN, MANUFACTURE,
INSTALL AND SUPPORT
FREE ADVICE & WISDOM: 40+YRS
EXPERIENCE ALL TYPES: ‘INDOOR SOFT
PLAYCENTRES’ -TO- ‘OUTDOOR TIMBER
ADVENTURE COURSES’
Contact +44 (0)1792 422818
www.playcraftgroup.wales
Mowing Systems
Screws & Fixings
From Fixings & Fastening
to Hardware & Tools
0121 559 8866 | sales@screwshop.co.uk
Security Solutions
Hinges
QUALITY HINGES FOR OVER 200 YEARS
AND A NUMBER OF BESPOKE SOLUTIONS
GOLDWASSALLHINGES.CO.UK
Sealing Siolutions
‘Dedicated to offer the best mowing system
for maintaining large area turfgrass’
Please visit www.ecoclipper.com
+31 (0)646753560 info@ecoclipper.com
The perfect gate for your castle
Contact 01442 253341
info@castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
www.castlegatesandautomation.co.uk
Service Sealing Solutions Ltd
Expert Service Sealing
& Waterproofing
for Durable, Leak-
Free Structures
For more information, please call
us on 01952 510050 or visit
www.servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
sales@servicesealingsolutions.co.uk
22
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13

Sustainable Building
Horticultural Careers
Classifieds
Underfloor Heating
01743 298001
www.easyflow.org.uk
Commercial Ventilation
Control Solutions
A specialist recruitment agency for the
Gardening, Landscaping and Horticulture
Industries throughout the UK
020 7793 7825
info@freshhortcareers.com
www.freshhortcareers.com
Solenoid Valve Operating Magnets
Operate a
solenoid valve
when a system is
without power
02381 550189 www.fridgenius.com
Liquid Waterproofing
Underfloor Heating &
Liquid Floor Screed
Specialists across the UK
Thousands of Quality Products
Mudfords
Bags, Tarpaulins, Hessian & Jute,
Nets, Straps & Slings, Rope &
Cord, Custom Made, Haulage,
Cleaning & More
www.mudfords.co.uk
Waterproof Floor Outlet
Activation | Monitoring |
Supervision & Control Solutions
Waterproofing and Sealing Solutions
for Flat Roofs, Façades & Buildings
0203 286 7949
www.simonbox.co.uk
GSM Diallers
GSM Switches
GSM Intercoms
sales@gsm-activate.co.uk
www.gsm-activate.co.uk
Water Heaters
01623 627285
info.uk@ccm-europe.com
www.ccm-europe.com/gb
Safety Consultants
Simonbox IP66
Waterproof Floor Outlet
Lifting
Built Environmental Safety, Health
& Wellbeing Consultancy
+353 (0)1 611 1556
info@dconsafety.com www.dconsafety.com
Environmental Consultants
Meters & Metering Equipment
Electric Vehicles
Contact: Graham Parry
+44 (0)118 971 0000
www.accon-uk.com
We specialise in air quality, noise,
vibration, lighting, flood risk environmental
assessment, contaminated land and EIA
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13 23

Roofing
24
BFN is sponsored by Groundbreaker – see them on pages 12-13