Friday, 8 November 2013

We are keen to encourage all site operatives & delivery drivers to be aware of the hazard that they can pose to pedestrians and cyclists.  Assistant site manager Richard Clarke has recently carried out tool box talks on cyclist safety for the site team.

Further cyclist safety advice and resources can be found at:
 http://www.fors-online.org.uk/index.php?page=PS_CYCLESAFETYTOOL&return=P_CONTRACTORS


Environmental Manager Ade Speller carried out a CPD session on the Considerate Constructors Scheme for staff from Firmingers QS & Project Management Consultancy to outline the recent scoring changes to the CCS Scheme as well as the measures that contractors should aim to undertake to achieve a good score.  The talk was very well received with many attendees commenting that they did not know that so much work went into achieving compliance.
Our assistant site manager Richard Clarke conducts a monthly site tour for students from Worcester College of Technology.  Richard is an excellent tour guide and is rapidly becoming and authority on the history of construction techniques and materials as evidenced by the interesting early examples of cavity wall construction and late examples of riveted steel frame construction within the building.
We are doing our best onsite to limit our carbon footprint with the construction team very aware of the energy resources that the site is using.  Currently until we can get the mains power electricity back on line we are running on a silenced generator which isn't fantastic for fuel use, however, a comprehensive programme of energy saving measures is operated onsite to ensure that we only use power when we absolutely have to.

Tuesday, 15 October 2013


SOD CUTTING MARKS THE START OF A NEW ERA FOR OLD RUSSELL & DORRELL STORE

30/09/13
The old Russell & Dorrell furniture store that stood opposite the banks of the Severn for many years is to be given a new lease of life by the Worcester College of Technology.
Worcester College of Technology sod cutting at the old Russell & Dorrell furniture store in Worcester
While the former furniture shop sadly closed following the recession, it will now be making a positive impact for the next generation of Worcester students as part of a major expansion for the College.
Adjacent to The Hive, the new learning quarter is being completely remodelled by local building contractor, Speller Metcalfe, who is working closely with the College to provide facilities such as a hair and beauty training centre, commercial salon, IT rooms and a fashion, art & design multi-media suite.
Speller Metcalfe has a strong history of working on education facilities - particularly within Worcestershire - and will be working closely with the College and the local community. Alongside the build, the contractor and College aim to open an on-site salon and catering facilities for students to put their skills into practise while learning how to run a real life business.  The project will also provide valuable work experience and apprenticeship opportunities such as bricklaying, electrical and plumbing.
Steve Speller, Managing Director for Speller Metcalfe explained the importance of supporting the College and its students: “Like many other Companies, we look for professionals with solid experience and up-to-date skills. These new facilities will be able to offer students just that – the chance to gain practical, real-life experience and qualifications while creating a more employable workforce.”
Nicki Williams, Vice Principal of Worcester College of Technology has emphasised the importance of restoring a site of such local significance: “The College is extremely proud to restore such an iconic building in the heart of Worcester City. The project will combine modern facilities while recognising and maintaining the history of the building and its surrounding area.
“We are fortunate to work with a building contractor who recognises the importance of providing work experience and look forward to the wide range of opportunities this will present our students in the coming months.”