14.7 C
London
Friday, April 4, 2025
Home Blog Page 132

With an Innovative Digital Approach, Bilt Renovation Plans to Revolutionise the Home Building Industry

Bilt Renovation, a leading London home builder, has revealed the launch of its innovative new way to design, build and manage construction projects. Customers benefit from a new level of transparency and collaboration, enabling them to track project progress and budget in real-time and make informed decisions.

Co-Founders Owen Drury & James Brett began discussions in 2021, where they discussed the problems in the construction industry, before deciding that they needed to take action.

James, a third-generation builder, and Owen a construction consultant had both run successful construction businesses where they were at the forefront of both their colleague’s and client’s frustrations:

·       An outdated process

·       Reluctance to modernise and incorporate technology,

·       A lack of transparency and collaboration 

·       Uneducated and inexperienced clients 

These problems, combined with labour shortages and a climate crisis, paved the way for Bilt.

Bilt’s vision is to disrupt and revolutionise the home renovation market, an industry both Owen and James felt passionate about.

Starting with the customer experience, they are in the process of developing a streamlined design and build process. By utilising a core software stack, homeowners can plan and manage their entire project from the initial vision through to construction.

“The current process of designing and building your home is fragmented. You have to contact a designer who then advises you to appoint someone else. They then tell you to appoint another person, and by the time you are ready to build, you’ve spent thousands and made very little progress. When you finally get to the site, you face a battle with your builder who has excluded half of the design, and the costs keep rising” said James, Bilt Renovation’s co-founder.

Once on site, their digital project management platform allows homeowners to scrap the emails, text messages, phone calls, site visits and stacks of paper. 3D project tracking means homeowners can watch their projects from the other side of the world and keep tabs on how the builders perform.

“We understand that building a home can be a stressful experience, and we wanted to create a platform that puts customers at ease,” said Owen, Bilt Renovation’s co-founder. “With our project hub, customers can easily stay informed and confident about their project.”

Customers can access detailed information about their project’s progress, financials, and other details via a user-friendly dashboard. Customers can easily communicate with their project team, track milestones, and stay informed about the status of their project.

Bilt also plans to tackle social problems such as low productivity and an ageing workforce: “Stalling productivity, an ageing workforce and a future generation totally uninterested in construction mean we need to make our industry more attractive and more productive, and that’s what we’re planning to do” – claimed Owen, “By infusing technology and fostering a culture of innovation, we hope to attract the next generation to our industry”.

Bilt Renovation’s mission is to provide high-quality, affordable homes that are environmentally friendly and sustainable. Project planning, design, construction, and management from design to construction are among the services provided by the company.

For more information about Bilt Renovation and their project hub, visit their website at www.biltrenovation.co.uk or follow them on Instagram at @biltrenovation.

Professional Photo Critique for Photographers of All Skill Levels Launched by 100ASA

100ASA, the unique photography platform that emphasises quality over quantity, has introduced its professional photo critique service online. This service is the first to be provided online, enabling photographers of all skill levels to receive constructive feedback from industry professionals.

As personal photo coaches, 100ASA’s professional photo critique team provides detailed feedback to improve your photography regardless of skill level. With the launch of the Pro photo critique version, users can chat directly with the senior critic, giving them an even more personalized experience.

“We are excited to launch our professional photo critique service online. This game-changer for photographers looking to improve their craft and receive valuable feedback from experienced professionals,” said Massimiliano Peluso, Co-Founder of 100ASA.

Professional Photo Critique is open to all levels of photographers, from beginners to professionals. The team at 100ASA believes everyone can benefit from constructive feedback and the opportunity to learn and grow as photographers.

The professional photo critique service is just one of the unique features that 100ASA offers to its community of photographers. With its emphasis on quality, community curation, tokens and rewards system, and more, 100ASA quickly becomes the go-to destination for photography enthusiasts and professionals.

For more information on 100ASA and its professional photo critique service, please visit the 100ASA website.

The shocking extent of seven years of price hikes – Research from My Community Finance

Brace yourself for April price hikes as the government, NHS, Royal Mail, and many other businesses jump on the incremental price increase bandwagon for everyday items, services, utilities, and events.

Occasionally, the price hikes are minuscule and go unnoticed by consumers. However, at other times, they can substantially impact household budgets, like the upcoming 4.99% rise in council tax which will impact millions or the whopping 14.4% surge in broadband costs this year, from providers including BT, EE, Vodafone, and Plusnet.

The cost of living crisis is hitting households hard because everyday expenses are increasing much faster than incomes. Between 2016 and 2023, the median annual earnings for full-time employees in the UK increased by just 17% in seven years, from £28,195 to £33,000.

The team at mycommunityfinance.co.uk has delved deeper into April price hikes, alongside a snapshot of popular items that have gone up in price over the past seven years, identifying the top culprits of incremental increases that surpass the median annual earnings increase of a UK full-time worker.

The average household energy bill – a 120% increase 

2016 – £1,134.00

2023 – £2,500.00 (Without government assistance, £2,100 with) 

The average price of a block of butter per 250g – a 67% increase 

2016 – £1.40p

2023 – £2.34p

A first-class stamp – a 72% increase 

2016 – 64p

2023 – £1.10p 

The average retail price of a used car – a 70% increase 

2016 – £10,736 

2023 – £18,268

The average price of a pint of milk – a 64% increase 

2016 – 42p

2023 – 69p

A Glastonbury ticket – a 47% increase 

2016 – £228 

2023 – £335 

The average price per litre of petrol – a 43% increase 

2016 – 103.9p

2023 – 148.73p

Annual BT line rental – a 39% increase 

2016 – £18.99 

2023 – £26.35 

The average price of a house – a 36% increase 

2016 – £207,780

2023 – £281,684 

An annual season rail ticket from Basingstoke to London – a 26% increase 

2016 – £4,196 

2023 – £5,292 

The average cost of 50 hours a week of childcare for a child under two – a 24% increase 

2016 – £217 per week 

2023 – £270 per week 

The average cost of a pint of lager – a 22% increase 

2016 £3.47

2023 £4.23 

Amazon Prime membership – a 20% increase 

2016 – £79 

2023 – £95 

Founder and CEO of mycommunityfinance.co.uk, Tobias Gruber, said: 

“Inflation has been an alarming and ongoing crisis over the past seven years, causing significant financial hardships for individuals and families. With the rising cost of necessities, coupled with stagnant wages, many people need help to make ends meet. 

“Urgent action and effective policies are needed to address this pressing issue and alleviate the burden on the most vulnerable of its devastating effects. It’s time for leaders to prioritise this issue and work towards a more stable and sustainable economic future for all.” 

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

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. 

Natalie Desty 1MB
Natalie Desty.

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.”   

Isabel Walder
Isabel Walder.

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.”

Alpa Kapasi
Alpa Kapasi.

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

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

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

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

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

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 

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]