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CommentData centres and energy – can we square the circle?
The insatiable energy demands of AI-driven data centres could have a profound effect on UK energy markets. We need a joined-up conversation, thinks Simon Rawlinson of Arcadis.
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CommentOut of the classroom and into construction: I’m looking for a career in the built environment – and it isn’t easy
Even with excellent A level results, many school leavers are still struggling to navigate the best route towards a career in construction, writes Oscar Sitwell - and two industry veterans, Mark Farmer and Colin Wood, offer some advice
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CommentFragmented and misunderstood – why our sector risks losing a generation
If we want young people to join our industry, we must show them an industry worth joining, says Ashley Wheaton, vicechancellor at the University of the Built Environment
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CommentThe main event: why local stakeholders are the most important people on major projects
It is not political backing but winning the support of the people ‘on the ground’ who are most affected by a project that is key to its eventual success, writes Beth West
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CommentStick to the payment process – or pay the price
A new ruling underlines the rigidity of the payment process: no pay less or similar notice, then no wiggle room in sum due
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CommentWhat the immigration white paper means for construction
The proposals are a potential minefield for the construction industry
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CommentHow to find out what people really think about new homes
Councils should seek the views of a representative sample of the local population, rather than a minority with vested interests, argues Paul Smith
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CommentTime to deliver: how alliancing can unblock the building and renewal of Britain’s infrastructure
The case is well established, the policy environment has caught up and tools are available. What remains is the willingness to apply these principles, say Jason Russell of AtkinsRéalis and Jacqui Archer of Aecom
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CommentBeware what you promise on WhatsApp – it could be a binding contract
Informal messages can form a binding contract even without formal documentation
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CommentIs maintenance spending going to be enough to overcome the social infrastructure backlog?
The government’s commitment to repair and maintenance is certainly encouraging, but Karl Horton of the Building Cost Information Service believes additional funding is likely to be needed
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CommentWhen is an interim account not an interim account?
An employer attempted to argue that an interim application for payment on account wasn’t detailed enough, but the High Court disagreed
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CommentBricks, bots and building back better: Why the UK must embrace circular construction
We still demolish too much and recycle too little. An urgent shift in mindset is required, writes Richard Steer
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CommentTarget cost contracts offer a promising pricing model
How does JCT’s new target cost contract compare to its NEC rival – and what are the benefits of this pricing model?
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CommentSolid foundations for industrial strategy rely on driving out construction error
Avoidable error costs the sector up to £25bn each year. Cliff Smith of the Get It Right Initiative outlines ways in which firms can improve reliability and productivity
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CommentThis month’s construction industry gossip: Expanding horizons
The latest chatter around the industry
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CommentThe case for optimism in construction
Amid the economic doom and gloom, some commentators believe confidence is returning, just slowly. So what will give it a boost?
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CommentUnpacking the Building Safety Regulator reforms that aim to unlock high-rise delays
What operational changes are being made to help the Building Safety Regulator tackle the excessive gateway approval waits on high-rise residential schemes?
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CommentA year of change signalled national ambition, now we must think local to deliver success
Devolving greater power, trust and transparency to local authorities is not just a matter of administrative convenience, it is vital for effective public good, says Mark Robinson
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CommentBuilding safety reform was essential, but there’s lots more work still to do
It was supposed to act as an enabler of safer housing, not an unintended barrier to progress. Here’s how we can make the Building Safety Act work better, says Lee Powell
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CommentA good start but there’s a lot more work to do: road testing the national infrastructure pipeline
Effective management of expectations is a key element of a successful product launch. Simon Rawlinson of Arcadis believes NISTA has set itself a massive task with the introduction of the new pipeline