Business London Press

Leading construction firms join forces on International Women’s Day to launch returners programme

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08/03/2023

<strong>Leading construction firms join forces on International Women’s Day to launch returners programme</strong>

STEM professionals who have taken a career break often face barriers to re-entering the industry, with 66% claiming to find the process difficult and 46% claiming that they faced bias due to their lack of recent experience. However, providing opportunities to professionals who have taken a break might help address the current STEM skills shortage in the UK.

An innovative returners scheme is being launched on International Women’s Day through a new partnership between Taylor Woodrow and Balfour Beatty VINCI SYSTRA JV (BBVS JV) with STEM Returners.

STEM professionals who have had a career break and want to return to the sector now have the opportunity to join a range of high-profile infrastructure projects. This includes joining BBVS JV, which Taylor Woodrow forms part of, who are building the iconic HS2 station in Old Oak Common, Northwest London.

Working across the rail, highways and energy sectors, Taylor Woodrow is committed to providing a wide range of opportunities to use and develop team member’s skills and help build a better future for us all.

STEM Returners will source candidates for the programme, which aims to return or transfer experienced engineers back into the industry following a career break. The fully paid placements act as a ‘returnship’, allowing candidates to be re-integrated into an inclusive environment upon their return to work.

Natalie Desty, Director of STEM Returners, which is based in Hampshire, said: “The projects which Taylor Woodrow has selected to be part of the programme offer a great range of opportunities.

Placements at Old Oak Common Station, which is set to be the UK’s best-connected station, will see candidates gain experience on HS2, the largest infrastructure project in Europe – a fantastic opportunity for STEM professionals to return to the industry.

This new partnership will enable that we have the pipeline of talent we need to fill vacancies in the engineering sector.

Isabel Walder, Resource Manager for Taylor Woodrow, said: “Taylor Woodrow is delighted to be entering into a partnership with STEM Returners to help bring talented individuals back into the industry.

“People are what make our projects a success. We are focussed on matching individual’s skills to the roles that will enable them to flourish and play their part in creating a positive legacy.”

Alpa Kapasi, Equality Diversity and Inclusion Manager at BBVS has expressed her commitment to securing the success of this exciting initiative: “As we strive to attract even more women into the sector, International Women’s Day provides a timely opportunity to launch this exciting initiative . This programme is just one of the measures that we are taking to address the under representation of women and other groups within our industry, whilst also providing opportunities to those who have been out of work for some time.

“We look forward to welcoming returners to our team and providing an accessible and inclusive environment where they can thrive.”

Annual research from STEM Returners (The STEM Returners Index) has revealed the challenges people who have had career break face, when trying to return – recruitment bias being the main barrier to entry. STEM Returners’ programme aims to eliminate these barriers, by giving candidates real work experience and mentoring during their placement and helping them to seamlessly adjust to life back in work.

Whilst the scheme helps solve the challenge of sourcing talent in sectors that need it, it also has the added benefit of increasing diversity in a host organisation. STEM Returners’ population of experienced professionals who are attempting to return to work are 46% female and 44% from ethnic minority groups, compared to 14% female and 9% from ethnic minority groups working in industry.

Natalie added: “Engineers who have a career break have the skills, dedication and passion to make a valuable contribution to any company. Only by partnering with industry leaders like Taylor Woodrow and BBVS will we make vital changes in STEM recruitment practices, to help those who are finding it challenging to return to the sector and improve diversity and inclusion.”

Since STEM Returners first launched in 2017, more than 310 STEM Returners candidates have joined programmes across the UK. To view STEM Returners opportunities, visit https://www.stemreturners.com/placements/

At World Art Dubai 2023, Emerging British artist Eleonora Lubieniecki debuts her vibrant artwork

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08/03/2023

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At World Art Dubai 2023, Emerging British artist Eleonora Lubieniecki debuts her vibrant artwork

World Art Dubai, the globally acclaimed art fair that celebrates creativity from around the world, is preparing for its ninth edition, scheduled to take place from March 9th-12th, 2023, at the World Trade Centre in Dubai. This year, the event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with the debut of emerging British artist Eleonora Lubieniecki‘s vibrant artwork.

Eleonora is a versatile artist who specialises in both figurative and abstract resin creations. Her art explores provocative themes of pop culture, celebrity, money, and fame, inviting viewers to engage with modern society’s relationship with capitalism. Her signature “Graffiti Series” and opulent, iridescent resin sculpture “Rorschach Series” are her most recognizable works.

During the World Art Dubai event, Eleonora’s signature “Graffiti Series” will be on display, depicting tongue-in-cheek messages about controversial public figures, pop culture, luxury, and excess. Her portraits are both avant-garde and highly commercial, creating a dialogue about modern society’s relationship with pop culture and capitalism.

In addition to her “Graffiti Series,” Eleonora’s opulent and iridescent resin sculpture “Rorschach Series” is also available to view in Dubai. This series explores abstract concepts and emotions, provoking viewers to consider their own feelings and mental health. Her work is both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating, challenging viewers to confront their own perceptions of the world around them.

Eleonora notes, “I am thrilled to be a part of World Art Dubai, an esteemed platform that celebrates renowned galleries and solo artists from all over the world. I believe that art is a universal language that brings people together, and I look forward to engaging with visitors and collectors at the event. I hope to inspire and challenge visitors with my work and contribute to the vibrant cultural scene in Dubai.”

Visitors can find Eleonora’s work in Hall 2 at stand number DA01 & DA02 at World Art Dubai. The event promises to be an inspiring and engaging platform for artists from all over the world to showcase their talent and creativity. It will feature over 4000 artworks from 300+ renowned galleries and solo artists from over 60 countries. In addition, the event will offer a non-stop schedule of live art performances, workshops, and talks.

World Art Dubai is a bustling marketplace for collectors, investors, and art enthusiasts of all ages. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the best of global art and culture while engaging with artists like Eleonora Lubieniecki, whose work pushes boundaries and challenges societal norms. The event is a must-attend for anyone looking to discover new and exciting artists, acquire unique pieces of art, or simply enjoy the vibrant and inspiring atmosphere of the art world.

Untitled%20design%20(1) — From Left to Right: Fun Coupon’s, 2022 – King, 2022 – Wallace World, 2022

Reward’s London and South East office hits £15m loan book milestone

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07/03/2023

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<strong>Reward’s London and South East office hits £15m loan book milestone</strong>

Reward Finance Group has reached a key business milestone by growing its regional loan book to £15m in London and the South East, with the SME lender also opening its London operational centre late last year and quadrupling the size of its team.

Reward has supported over 40 firms across the region by providing the working capital to drive increased revenue, innovate, create new jobs or navigate through a difficult trading period.

Further expanding its broker network, acquiring the best employee talent and its straightforward and flexible approach to lending has been a major factor behind the success story. It is also due to the London and South East office being led by experienced asset based lender Simon Adcock who has worked in the finance sector for over 25 years.

The company has seen the biggest SME borrowing within the property, transport, retail and wholesale sectors.

Amongst those firms in the South East to benefit from Reward’s support, was a 300 year old designer and wholesale supplier of children’s shoes to major retailers across the UK. The business secured a £1.2m facility and was dependent on the working capital to fulfil orders and overcome cashflow challenges caused by post-COVID manufacturing delays from the Far East.

Another firm to benefit is a new business venture based in Ipswich, which utilised a £295,000 facility to purchase a property and land for future development. The speed of the funding deal was critical as it enabled the developer to quickly purchase the land as soon as it came on to the market and move forward with the construction at pace.

Simon Adcock, Reward’s regional director for London and the South East, said: “Since launching in London just 14 months ago, the rate of growth we’ve experienced has really exceeded our expectations and built on the strong foundations previously put in place in London and the South East. I feel the success is largely down to forging strong relationships with our network of brokers, building an experienced and talented team and working closely with our SME clients to understand their business needs. It is also really satisfying to know that our finance solutions are helping SMEs accelerate their business growth ambitions or to overcome a short-term financial hurdle.

“In terms of the year ahead, we’ll be making further hires, such as a new relationship manager in the Spring and further operational and sales people later in the year.”

Nick Smith, group managing director for Reward, added: “To have achieved £15m of lending so soon after establishing a London presence is an outstanding achievement by Simon, the team and the wider business.

“Whether it has been inflationary pressures and supply chain issues or strikes and spiralling energy costs, the last 12 months has been a difficult trading period for many businesses across the capital and South East. I’m therefore proud of the work the team has done to help SMEs navigate through this climate of economic uncertainty and even drive growth in many instances.”

Silvertown and Strengthens Supported by OFR London Team with New Hires

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07/03/2023

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Silvertown and Strengthens Supported by OFR London Team with New Hires

Leading fire engineering consultancy, OFR Consultants has seen further expansion this year already with the appointment of two new colleagues in the capital. Milad Mansouri, a fire engineer, and Lizzie Pickup, a new graduate, are joining the 115-strong London-based team.

Milad, a Fire CFD Engineer and Lizzie, whose university thesis focussed on fire safety in informal settlements and refugee camps, have join OFR at an exciting time for the business. In London, the team has continued to be involved with some of the city’s most exciting developments including East London’s landmark Silvertown development, on behalf of developer, Lendlease.

The masterplan for the 50 acre Silvertown site, will see a huge transformation for this underdeveloped area of East London, bringing homes, offices, leisure, cultural and community space here. The OFR team has been assisting with the fire strategy for the £3.5bn dockside regeneration development, where plans were submitted a few weeks ago, following consultation with the local residential and business community.

OFR project manager, Matt Stallwoodexplained: “We have been appointed extensively across the site as it progresses through the development stages, prioritising sustainability by incorporating Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to reduce construction time and have a positive effect on reducing carbon emissions, whilst also assessing the complexities relating to fire safety.

“We are assisting with the Masterplan development for the entire development as well as on RIBA Stages 2 – 4 for Plots 6, 7, 8 Millennium Mills and 1D/2D. We have also been appointed for RIBA stage 2 of plot 1 plot 1J.”

The OFR team is currently the sole fire engineering consultancy across the plots, where the scheme primarily comprises of new residential buildings. The landmark Millennium Mills, which will be transformed to a commercial purpose is a collection of listed buildings which presents the challenge of trying to retain as much as possible while still meeting the requirements of current standards.

Milad spoke about joining the OFR team, which has grown to 115 people across seven UK offices since it was established in 2016, he said: “I am excited by the breadth of work that OFR is involved in both here in London, throughout the UK and overseas. I look forward to contributing my knowledge and experience – as an Aerospace Engineering graduate, I have since held roles at various consultancies and developed my career working on many major projects including the Sail Tower and Maad Towers in Saudi and Westfield London White City. 2023 is certainly a great time to be joining the business and embracing the opportunities of working within the sector at this time.”

Studio Moren delivers UK’s first art’otel at Battersea Power Station

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07/03/2023

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<strong>Studio Moren delivers UK’s first art’otel at Battersea Power Station</strong>

Studio Moren, hospitality design specialist, has applied its space-planning expertise to deliver the UK’s first art’otel at Battersea Power Station. Studio Moren was appointed hotel architect for this landmark 164 guestroom, lifestyle hotel which officially opened last week.

art’otel London Battersea Power Station, a premium lifestyle hotel designed by Signature Artist Jaime Hayon, features unique artworks by Hayon, a public art gallery housed within TOZI Grand Cafe, gym, spa, heated rooftop infinity pool and event rooms. A rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the river Thames and the Grade II* listed Battersea Power Station.

artotel Battersea CGI Exterior Sky View small — Copyright Matthew Shaw All rights reserved and all moral rights asserted. See licence supplied with this image for full terms & conditions. Copy available at: www.matthewshaw.co.uk/copyright.html Not for use by architects, interior designers or other hotel suppliers without permission from Matthew Shaw

The hotel is a key component of Phase 3 of the Battersea development, overseen by the Battersea Power Station Development Company (BPSDC) and designed by Foster + Partners and Gehry Partners. Phase 3 also comprises Electric Boulevard – the new pedestrian high street and main gateway to the entire development – 1,300 residential homes and the recently opened Battersea Power Station Underground Station, serving the new Zone 1 Northern Line extension.

Studio Moren was appointed hotel architect from RIBA Stage 2 to completion, applying the practice’s hotel space-planning expertise in a shell and core framework to maximise the hotel’s available area within the O-1 development zone of the masterplan. Working closely with the wider design team, Studio Moren successfully delivered two very different, yet complementary, interior design schemes.

Public spaces and guestrooms take on Jaime Hayon’s interior design concept and signature artworks, a new wave that blurs the lines between art, decoration and design within the context of contemporary design culture. The top floor signature bar and restaurant interior design by Russell Sage Studio, follows a contemporary interpretation of Art Deco design aesthetics as it offers close and intimate views of the Power Station’s iconic chimneys.

Kate Sandle, Associate at Studio Moren explains: “Collaboratively working with other high-profile architecture firms appointed throughout Phase 3 of the Development on a time-sensitive project under a construction management contract has been challenging. We have led coordination of the hotel throughout design and delivery stages, liaising with construction manager, consultants and trade contractors to ensure the client’s vision is successfully implemented.

artotel Battersea Rooftop Pool Image by Matthew Shaw small — Copyright Matthew Shaw All rights reserved and all moral rights asserted. See licence supplied with this image for full terms & conditions. Copy available at: www.matthewshaw.co.uk/copyright.html Not for use by architects, interior designers or other hotel suppliers without permission from Matthew Shaw

“art’otel London Battersea Power Station is a truly special hotel and unlike any other in London to date. It will play a vital role in the regeneration of this area of the Capital, creating a new destination for residents and visitors alike. Studio Moren is honoured to have played a role in this new chapter of London’s history.”

The iconic building within which art’otel London Battersea Power Station is set has been designed to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ status and sustainability has been a key driver in the design and delivery of the hotel scheme, from innovative heating solutions, efficient façade design, high-tech hotel management solutions that aim to improve both guest experience and hotel management, as well as a green roof. The hotel rooftop is publicly accessible, and features a stunning Roof Garden designed by the New York High Line team, James Corner Field Operations.

Over 50% of UK Mortgage Holders Struggling with Mental Health as Cost of Living Crisis Hits Home

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07/03/2023

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Over 50% of UK Mortgage Holders Struggling with Mental Health as Cost of Living Crisis Hits Home

New survey data from Dye & Durham reveals extent of issue for homeowners

Independent market research firm Danebury Research conducted a new survey of 2,000 UK homeowners who pay a mortgage on behalf of Dye & Durham, revealing that more than half (56%) of UK mortgage holders (who have genuine concerns about their financial situation and that of their families) are experiencing mental health problems as a result of the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Almost a third (30%) say they are worried they will fail to make mortgage repayments within the next year, with those aged 18-24 expressing particular concern (42%). In addition, more than a third (36%) said they could only afford to continue paying their mortgage for two months if a job loss affected the main breadwinner, meaning repossessions could become a rising risk for the UK’s property market. And with one in eight (12%) UK homeowners – and nearly one in five (19%) Londoners – expecting to delay selling or buying a home this year, legal professionals that rely on property transactions to drive revenue will need to take a closer look at their operations and make adjustments to better adapt to volatile market conditions and save money.

“The effects of high interest rates, energy bills and the increased cost of living overall cannot be underestimated. Our survey data shows Britons are extremely concerned about both their short- and long-term future and have reduced spending, raided savings and are delaying major purchases,” says Martha Vallance, Chief Operating Officer for Dye & Durham. “For legal professionals that rely on property transactions this is likely to have a significant effect for the duration of 2023 and beyond. Now is the time to start evaluating technologies that can help modernise their businesses and help them save money by reducing unnecessary costs.”

Economic uncertainty is weighing on the minds of property owners with 69% concerned about the financial future for themselves and their family. Two thirds (66%) say they are worried their children or grandchildren will be unable to get on the property ladder due to affordability.

Survey respondents confirmed they (43%) have taken to selling personal items to better manage household budgets and more than half (55%) have made personal sacrifices so their family and children are not impacted – for example by eating less, or not buying clothing or shoes for themselves. Already to date, 25% of respondents have had to delve into savings to put cash towards day-to-day expenses such as food or heating.

Other findings of note from the survey include:

More than a third (36%) of respondents expect it will take significantly longer to pay off their mortgage than originally anticipated
One in three (35%) expect to delay home renovation or improvement projects
Almost one fifth (19%) expect they will need to delay retirement plans – increasing to nearly a quarter (24%) of 45-54 year olds
Almost half (46%) of people in Yorkshire & The Humber said they could comfortably afford to continue paying their mortgage for just two months or less, if there was a change of circumstances for the main income earner, compared to 22% of Londoners who said the same
To help manage monthly outgoings, three in five (60%) homeowners have cut-back on takeaways or meals out – including two thirds (66%) of those aged 55-64. More than half (52%) say they have reduced clothes shopping
39% of Londoners have returned to the office to instead of work-from-home, to save costs.

Paul Clarke, UK Product Lead, Dye & Durham adds: “For those concerned about making mortgage payments, seek advice from a mortgage advisor or your lender as help is available. It may be possible to secure a mortgage holiday or switch to interest-only payments for a temporary period. Selling a property can take a minimum of two-three months from sale agreed to completion, so for those considering downsizing to minimise mortgage commitments, don’t delay consulting an estate agent or legal conveyancer for advice.”

Property and legal professionals including solicitors, lawyers, legal firms, estate agents and mortgage brokers saw record numbers of property transactions following the Covid-19 Pandemic. While this had a positive impact on the bottom line of many sector professionals, the increased volume of sales meant broader strategic plans were placed on hold. With a slower and more challenging market expected throughout 2023, and many consumers adjusting their plans due to the cost of living constraints, it presents a chance for industry professionals to implement plans to improve operational efficiency.

“With transaction volumes likely to be reduced this year due to consumer concerns over the cost of living crisis, professionals now have the opportunity to take a closer look at their operations and evaluate ways to improve efficiency for both their businesses and their customers,” explains Clarke. “By improving their processes and workflows now, to support a more agile approach to transactions and practice management, it will provide a real advantage once the market bounces back to previous levels.”

For further information please see: www.dyedurham.co.uk

Aston University gears up to commemorate 50 years of transport education

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07/03/2023

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Aston University gears up to commemorate 50 years of transport education

In celebration of 50 years of transport education at Aston University, former students are being asked to get in touch.

This year marks half a century of transport studies at Aston University, dating back to 1973 when the subject first appeared as part of a combined honours degree course, with the first transport graduates completing in 1976.

In 1982-3 the course became a degree in its own right and 40 years later is still teaching the transport professionals of the future.

Aston University is currently the only UK institution to offer a dedicated transport management degree, BSc Transport Management, and a BSc Transport Planning degree apprenticeship.

During the past five decades the course has produced graduates equipped with the skills, knowledge and experience needed across the transport sector.

Dr Lucy Rackliff, programme director and head of the department of Engineering Systems & Supply Chain Management, said: “Generations of our students have contributed no end to the UK’s skills in this sector. From rail and road, consultancy and government, there are few areas in the transport sphere that have not been improved by our graduates.

“If you studied transport at Aston University, we would love to hear from you with any stories and memories from your student days. And of course, we would love to hear about where your transport career has taken you.”

Aston University started life in 1875, and in 1895 become the Birmingham Municipal Technical School, teaching chemistry, physics, metallurgy and electrical engineering. In 1966 it received its royal charter to become a university.

If you would like to share where your transport career has taken you please get in touch via LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13582956/ or contact the University’s alumni team at [email protected]

Cleanology proudly services new entertainment district lighting up London

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07/03/2023

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<strong>Cleanology proudly services new entertainment district lighting up London</strong>

Cleanology, UK commercial cleaning experts, have been proud to support the introduction of London’s most exciting new entertainment complex as cleaning-service provider.

Outernet London is a global media and entertainment district in the West End which integrates unique creative and technical capabilities to bring cultural and retail experiences alive. All are centrally positioned within a wider live performance, hotel, restaurant and bar ecosystem. Cleanology’s responsibility is for servicing all Outernet London above-ground public media spaces, with daily footfall in excess of 170,000.

Dominic Ponniah, CEO of Cleanology, which is based at Lion Yard in Clapham, South West London, said: “Outernet is boosting London’s profile and attracting a huge number of visitors, and I’m delighted to be part of such an exciting new venture. With such high footfall and a site that is open to the elements, we strive to ensure that it looks its best at all times, reflective of the premium global brands Outernet is host to. It is always encouraging to partner with a company that reflects our commitment to sustainability and fair pay.”

James McEwan, COO of Outernet London, said: “Cleanology’s commitment to servicing excellence, their strong value code, plus their extremely personable and professional team, made them the natural choice when deciding whom to help us launch and operate our game-changing public spaces.”

The contract employs six cleaning operatives, with at least one member of staff on site all day, seven days a week.

Key Account Manager for Cleanology, Carime Balde, said: “It has been a pleasure to provide services for such a wonderful company. We have managed to create an effective and efficient cooperative system with Outernet, which in turn allows Cleanology to provide the highest standards of cleaning service possible.”

Cleanology’s award-winning initiatives to reduce waste and energy were a key factor in the contract decision, as well as its work to support the Hygiene Bank in alleviating hygiene poverty. It is also a vocal campaigner for the Real Living Wage, with over 90 per cent of all staff now on a Real Living Wage rate or higher.

Ponniah concluded: “Outernet has made a great addition to our diverse and growing commercial portfolio. And we’ve had a flying start to the year after a record-breaking 2022.”

Visit: https://cleanology.com/services/office-cleaning/

CILT Research Reveals Rail Electrification Possible for 95% of UK Freight Trains

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News Desk

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07/03/2023

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CILT Research Reveals Rail Electrification Possible for 95% of UK Freight Trains

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport – CILT(UK) – has released its electrification strategy research, revealing the significant opportunity of electrification across the UK’s rail network.

CILT has published a detailed map and strategy which demonstrates and details the opportunity in the UK to electrify 95% of rail freight operations by the mid-2040s. The research reveals that only 800 miles of additional electrification is needed in the UK to enable 95% of rail freight to be electrically hauled. The initial 60 miles of Infill electrification is estimated to cost c.£50m p.a. over two years – less than the cost of one road scheme – and represent a ‘no regrets’ way of decarbonising key parts of the UK logistics system.

Currently, a mere 10% of British freight trains are hauled by electric locomotives and the UK lags behind its European counterparts when it comes to rail freight electrification.

Furthermore, CILT suggests an electrification programme of 40 route miles per annum for 20 years, at a cost of £100 million per annum, is required to deliver this significant opportunity for the UK to meet its decarbonation and net-zero goals.

While decarbonising technology for other modes of transport is still emerging, and therefore sometimes challenging to introduce, electrified rail transport is a fully mature, proven green technology which has been in use for more than 60 years. CILT sees this opportunity as ‘low-hanging fruit’ when it comes to decarbonisation and reducing emissions from transport operations.

Based on detailed analysis of data on rail freight movements across the UK, the routes proposed for electrification lead from main container ports to inland distribution centres, which are key supply chain hubs, and from major quarries to urban areas that require large quantities of construction materials. Also included are routes serving other key rail freight customers such as the steel industry.

The research also specifies three priority areas in its electrification strategy:

Electrification of the key cross-country route from Felixstowe to the Midlands and North avoiding London (the ‘F2MN’ route). This provides a direct link to the West Coast Main Line at Nuneaton for the North West and Scotland and, along with the line from Peterborough via Lincoln to Doncaster, a direct link to Yorkshire and the North East. It would allow zero-carbon electric trains to be used in place of diesel trunk HGVs on the A14, M6, and A1.
The next phase would electrify the link from Britain’s third largest container port at Southampton to inland markets. The first stage involves electrification from Basingstoke to Reading and from Didcot, via East West Rail, to Bletchley on the West Coast Main Line. A second stage would see the route from Southampton to Basingstoke via Andover being electrified. Diesel trunk HGVs on the A34, A43 and M40 could be replaced by zero-carbon electric rail services.
The third phase of the CILT electrification strategy involves routes from major quarries and cement works in the Peak District and the Mendips. This would allow electric haulage of millions of tonnes a year of heavy construction materials to Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and the South East. Roads such as the A6 and A38 in the Midlands and North, plus the A36, A303, M3 and M4 in the South, would be relieved of diesel HGVs.

Julian Worth FCILT, Chair of CILT’s Rail Freight Forum and lead author of the strategy said: “The CILT electrification strategy would allow circa 95% of UK freight trains to be hauled by electric locomotives by the mid-2040s, saving considerable amounts of carbon every year. The strategy benefits passengers as well as freight customers. Almost all the routes involved carry passenger trains and the strategy would enable life-expired diesel trains to be replaced by modern electric units.

Sharon Kindleysides FCILT, Chief Executive at CILT said: “CILT is committed to helping policy makers, industry and professionals play their part in the route to net-zero. Our policy groups have worked tirelessly on this research to demonstrate the opportunity electrifying our rail freight sector presents. The CILT electrification strategy also strongly supports other policy imperatives, notably levelling-up and union connectivity and sees rail freight electrification as a key part of the route to net zero.”

webversion 1 — Sharon Kindleysides FCILT

To view the CILT electrification strategy and map in full, click here.

Renowned TV Antiques Expert Paul Martin to Host Talk & Tour in the Grandeur of Syon House

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07/03/2023

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Renowned TV Antiques Expert Paul Martin to Host Talk & Tour in the Grandeur of Syon House

One of the UK’s best-loved antiques experts is to host a special event in Syon House, one of the last great mansion houses in London.

Paul Martin, presenter of BBC’s Flog It! and Channel 5’s The Great Auction Showdown will visit the Brentford attraction for a very special tour and talk in April.

The London home of the Dukes of Northumberland since the 16th Century, Syon House was erected in 1547 on the site of a Bridgettine abbey and has witnessed many historic events over the centuries, including the imprisonment of Queen Katherine Howard, the exploding body of Henry VIII, and a visit from Pocahontas.

Sited less than ten miles from London on the river Thames, it remains a beacon of tranquillity and one of Britain’s best preserved and historically important stately homes.

‘An Afternoon with Paul Martin’ takes place on Thursday, April 20, with Paul hosting a talk in the neoclassical Great Hall designed by Robert Adam, followed by a house tour and then afternoon tea and book signing in the stunning Great Conservatory.

Paul, who grew up nearby in Teddington, said the outstanding history of the home is a huge draw for antique enthusiasts.

He said: “Syon House really is a ‘must-see’ for me – there’s so much to learn and that’s why I keep coming back. It is an architectural delight that has been lived in by the same family for generations and beautifully curated.

“It’s a lesson in history and heritage for all art and antique lovers that brings together works of Robert Adam, Thomas Chippendale and Capability Brown and is a celebration of their obsession to excellence and detail, not to mention the vast collections from The Grand Tour, where the neo-classical meets the classical and in places transports you back to ancient Rome.”

Paul is currently in the middle of filming a new series of The Great Auction Showdown. He adds: “The show is an ongoing filming commission for Channel 5 which involves filming in auction houses, museums, and public buildings throughout the UK, not dissimilar to Flog It!. I film 80 shows in one year – we have already made 40 and film the remaining 40 programmes from March 2023, which will involve being on the road for five months filming throughout the UK.”

Sarah Ponder, Marketing & Visitor Services Assistant at Syon House, said: “We are greatly looking forward to Paul coming to Syon House to provide his expert perspective on the property and the collections we have. Paul’s outstanding knowledge combined with his charismatic personality means he is a popular figure with TV viewers and antiques enthusiasts, and we are certain this will be an enjoyable afternoon for everyone.”

To book tickets, visit https://booking.kxtickets.com/events

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