Winners of the East Midlands fbe Awards 2016 revealed

Overall winner of the fbe Awards 2016

A university’s carbon neutral laboratory building which is a centre of excellence for green chemistry has been crowned the overall winner of the East Midlands fbe Awards 2016.

The GlaxoSmithKline Carbon Neutral Laboratory for Sustainable Chemistry at the University of Nottingham’s Innovation Park on the Jubilee Campus had earlier also taken the top prize in the Non-residential category at the annual awards ceremony held at the City Rooms in Leicester.

The building has been constructed by the university in partnership with the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) and Impact: The Nottingham Campaign, the university’s largest ever fundraising appeal to change lives, tackle global issues and shape the future. 

Nominated by main contractor Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure Ltd, the project team also included architects Fairhursts Design Group (FDG), structural engineer Curtins Consulting and AECOM (BREEAM and LEED assessors, concept structural engineer, M&E consultant), KLH Sustainability (Embodied Carbon Consultant), and Anthesis (Embodied Carbon Auditor).

The judges said: “Superb collaboration between stakeholders sits behind many of the award-winning attributes of this project. From striking design, to high-levels of sustainability, this scheme showcases world-class design using natural materials. The judging panel felt this scheme far surpasses any other submission in terms of its contribution to the creation of new employment which should be acknowledged.  An exceptional building that will become a world hub for new science while simultaneously delivering an architectural landmark for generations of students to enjoy.”

The winner of the Residential category was a short-stay accommodation scheme for nationwide charity Canine Partners at Osgathorpe in north west Leicestershire. The £750,000 project is part of a three-phase £4 million investment to create a new Midlands centre for the charity, which trains assistance dogs for people with disabilities. It was nominated by North Midland Construction PLC. Other members of the team were architects PWP, structural engineer ASP Consulting and project manager/employer’s agent Baqus Ltd.

The judges said: “This scheme expertly showcases the use of low carbon materials resulting in accommodation that meets the precise needs of the brief. Using a variety of materials and finishes, the building is both aesthetically pleasing yet delivers a strong visual identity. The judging panel was particularly impressed by the way the design reflected the practical needs of its residents.”

Nottingham’s new £3.7 million London Road Fire Station, built by J Tomlinson Ltd for Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, took the honours in the Regeneration category. The architect was CPMG, structural engineer Curtins, project manager was CPMG’s client Turner & Townsend, and mechanical and electrical consultants was Couch Perry Wilkes.

The judges said: “Demonstrating excellent use of technology and natural elements, this is a complex project needing to take into account the practical needs of the fire station and blend with the city’s existing south side regeneration plans. This scheme should be highly commended for showcasing our industry to the local community and indeed showcasing construction as a profession.”

A new category at this year’s awards ceremony, which attracted around 150 professionals from across the East Midlands construction, property and development sector, was Best Rising Star – an award for the younger generation of professionals who are making a significant contribution to the built environment.

Part II Architectural Assistant at RG+P in Leicester, Sarah Grocock, was named the inaugural winner after impressing the judges with her academic and practical experience and abilities.

The judges said: “Sarah’s contribution to the construction industry is already impressive. She is a true rising star and will undoubtedly go on to influence other young construction professionals throughout her career. The judging panel were impressed by her boundless energy and commitment to learning and developing her skills. Without question Sarah has already made a significant contribution to our industry through her work on a range of housing schemes and will no doubt become an influential architect.” 

Her nominators William Smedley and James Badley said: “Sarah already has a host of achievements and a wealth of talent. As her passion for the industry grows, so does her knowledge and ability. Sarah will undoubtedly go on to lead and influence the construction industry.”

Jef Todd, regional chairman of the East Midlands fbe and business development director at civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting, was delighted by the success of the awards ceremony and praised the diversity and strength of the nominations.

“We had an excellent array of nominations from across the region and across a range of sectors, illustrating the high standard of developments that are being completed in the East Midlands built environment,” he said. “I’d like to congratulate all those who were shortlisted, as well as the winners, and thank the construction, property and development sector in the region for their support of these awards, which focus on sustainability, good design, and interaction and engagement with the local community.”

The awards, hosted once again by former BBC East Midlands political editor John Hess, were sponsored by D W Hicks Building Co Ltd, integrated building solutions company J Tomlinson Ltd, civil engineering, mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineers BSD, engineering and environmental consultants M-EC Consulting Development Engineers and chartered accountants and business advisers Duncan & Toplis. Civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting sponsored the drinks reception. 

During the evening, £1,800 was raised for the NSPCC.

The fbe is a national organisation, with branches across the UK and is the longest established networking group for the property, development and construction industries. As well as running the annual awards scheme, the organisation also organises a number of social and other events. The East Midlands branch covers Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire.

Press release issued by Nottingham based pr company Perfect 10 PR www.perfect10pr.co.uk 

Completion of new £3.7m Nottingham fire station

Station Manager Andy Lindley and J Tomlinson Construction Manager Jim Hardie

The team behind the construction of a new £3.7m fire station in Nottingham has handed over the development to Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Following a year-long building project on site, contractor J Tomlinson has completed work on the three-storey building in London Road, which will use less than a quarter of the energy of the fire station it is replacing - significantly reducing carbon emissions.

The development of the new fire station has been a Nottinghamshire project from start to finish, involving a number of key Nottingham companies.

It was designed by city architects CPMG, constructed by Nottingham-based J Tomlinson, and project managed by CPMG’s client, the Nottingham office of Turner & Townsend. Structural engineer Curtins and mechanical and electrical consultants Couch Perry Wilkes from the city also played key roles in the development, which houses three fire engine bays, modern training facilities, including a tower, and office space for Nottingham City Council’s Emergency Planning Team. 

The new fire station will replace the iconic Central Fire Station which has served the city centre and surrounding area since the 1940s. 

Built to significantly exceed efficiency standards through the use of smart lighting, insulation, and solar panels on the roof, it is also linked to the Nottingham City District Heating System, which provides a low carbon fuel source to homes and businesses in the city using energy recovered from waste.

It has been designed so that heating in the appliance bay will automatically cut out when the appliance bay doors are open.

Martin Gallagher, construction managing director for J Tomlinson, said: “J Tomlinson works on construction projects across the East Midlands, West Midlands and Yorkshire, but it is always pleasing to be involved in a high-profile project in our home city of Nottingham, especially when it is something as important for the community as a new fire station.

“The year-long build has gone smoothly and to plan, and we are delighted and proud to have handed over a new, state-of-the-art facility to Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service on time and on budget.”

Aiden Bell, architect for CPMG, said: “As a Nottingham-based firm, the London Road Fire Station is clearly a project close to our hearts and one which we’re delighted to have designed. The three-storey building complements the city’s south side regeneration plans and meets the needs of a modern emergency service, fit for the future. 

“As well as providing vital services to the people of Nottingham, the building’s energy efficient features will save the fire service money and will provide state-of-the-art facilities for training and our firefighters.” 

Peter Orton, director, Turner & Townsend Nottingham, said: “Being involved in this project is something we’re immensely proud of. We have been involved since 2013. Throughout this time, we have worked closely with Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, acting as lead consultant and providing project management, cost management and design services. It’s exciting to now see this state-of-the-art facility come to life.”

Councillor Darrel Pulk, chair of Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Authority, said: “London Road Fire Station has been purpose built for a modern fire service and I am delighted that the project has been delivered on time and to a high specification.

“I am looking forward to the next phase of the project which will see fire crews from Nottingham’s Central Fire Station rehome here in early September before the station’s official opening.

“The new station has been built to significantly exceed efficiency standards through the use of smart lighting, insulation and solar panels and I am pleased that handover has been completed and accepted which means that the final stages of the project can begin.”

The London Road fire station has been built in collaboration with Nottingham City Council.

Press release issued by Nottingham based PR company Perfect 10 PR www.perfect10pr.co.uk 

HMS Belfast success flies the flag for Nottinghamshire businesses

A project which saw four Nottingham companies design and build the new visitor centre for London's iconic HMS Belfast, part of Imperial War Museums, has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.  

CPMG Architects and Focus Consultants have been selected as finalists in the Tourism and Leisure category of the RICS Awards and will be attending an awards ceremony in London on 30 April 2015 on behalf of project partners Couch Perry Wilkes and Price & Myers.  

The RICS Awards selects the very best inspirational initiatives in land, property and construction and the environment and recognises the very best work across the capital city.  

HMS Belfast's new visitor centre and Quayside Pavilion opened in 2013 to mark its 75th anniversary combining better access for schools and group visits with a cutting edge rooftop bar and cafe.  

Nick Gregory, director for CPMG Architects said: "We're absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted for this award and to be recognised for our designs for the iconic HMS Belfast visitor centre. It's not every day you're asked to bring your expertise to a London landmark on the River Thames, so this project was really something special. We're proud to be part of the four-strong team made of Focus Consultants, Couch Perry Wilkes and Price & Myers to fly the flag for Nottingham and keep part of our heritage alive for the tourism industry." 

Eleanor Clarke, associate at Focus Consultants also commented: "We're so proud to have project managed an expert team from Nottingham which transformed HMS Belfast on behalf of  Imperial War Museums. The improvements have seen the Second World War Royal Navy Warship become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the capital city.” 

The visitor centre was transformed to include a ground floor cafe and dramatic rooftop bar as part of its reopening in 2013 in conjunction with the ship's 75th anniversary.  

The Nottingham project team is up against seven other finalists in the tourism and leisure category including HM Tower of London, The Glass Mill Leisure Centre, British Museum World Conservation and Exhibition Centre, Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre, New Pavillion Portico at The Kia Oval, Lambeth, Beefeater Gin Visitor Centre in Lambeth and Terminal 2, The Queen’s Terminal. 

The award’s eight categories are: building conservation, commercial, community benefit, design through innovation, infrastructure, regeneration, residential, tourism and leisure. The event will be taking place at the Lancaster London Hotel and will be hosted by comedian Mark Watson. 

Find out more about the award here: http://www.rics.org/uk/training-events/networking/rics-awards-2015-london/london/

Project manager Focus Consultants and architects CPMG team up on HMS Belfast project

Four Nottingham companies have played a pivotal role in designing and building an impressive new visitor centre for Second World War cruiser HMS Belfast.

Focus Consultants project managed the development on behalf of IWM (Imperial War Museums), having previously undertaken the feasibility study for the new Quayside Pavilion and given funding research support for the scheme.

Architects CPMG designed the striking new centre which has transformed the entrance to the iconic London landmark on the River Thames.

Other members of the project team were Couch Perry Wilkes, who handled the mechanical and electrical engineering aspects, and structural engineers Price & Myers.

The new Quayside Pavilion features improved entrance facilities, a ground floor café and shop and a dramatic rooftop bar. Its opening comes 75 years after the launch of HMS Belfast, one of the most significant surviving Second World War Royal Navy warships of her type, and now a museum based between Tower Bridge and London Bridge.

“HMS Belfast is an important part of UK heritage and a key tourist attraction, and we are proud to have been a part of the team that has given this museum ship a stunning new entrance centre,” said Mike Lee, associate at Focus Consultants, which is based at Phoenix Business Park, Nottingham, and has branches in London, Leicester, Lincoln and in Boston.

Focus has worked on significant heritage sites across the country, and is currently project managing a prestigious multi-million pound redevelopment at the National Army Museum in Chelsea, and is on the framework agreement to develop and deliver temporary exhibitions at the prestigious Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

 Richard Flisher, director at CPMG, said: “We’re delighted to have successfully completed such a high profile second project for The Imperial War Museum, not many projects are built on stilts in the Thames! We plan to further expand our portfolio of projects in the London area and in pursuit of this aim we are already refurbishing the National Autistic Society Headquarters in Islington, we have just received planning consent for the £18m Quest Academy in Croydon and have recently commenced work on a major waste to energy project in the Thames Estuary.”

The Quayside Pavilion replaces an entrance structure which had been in place 20 years. The redevelopment will improve access for groups, schools, corporate clients and service deliveries via a new gangway. Its new dramatic roof top café-bar allows visitors to enjoy the stunning views of the historic ship and surrounding London landmarks, including Tower Bridge, the Tower of London and City Hall.

Focus Consultants carried out several different roles on the HMS Belfast Quayside Pavilion scheme, including business case and funding research, the options appraisal/feasibility study, and acted as project manager, project co-ordinator, contract administrator and BREEAM assessor.

For more information visit www.focus-consultants.co.uk

Press release issued by Nottingham PR company Perfect 10 PR www.perfect10pr.co.uk