Jennie Price
CommentGive it a chance
The ODA is taking lots of flak for its sustainable development policy. But Jennie Price, outgoing WRAP supremo and incoming Sport England chief, thinks we should cut them some slack
CommentEat the elephant
Clients now regard sustainability as a requirement when choosing a contractor. But how can contractors tackle such a huge subject given what they’ve got on their plate already?
CommentSexual relations on site
In a change to our schedule, our columnist will be taking her place in the ever-lengthening queue of women wearing boxing gloves who want to talk to Ray O'Rourke
CommentThe world is watching
The Olympic building project faces such intense scrutiny that only by committing to the highest standards can the industry avoid a nasty fall at every hurdle
CommentThe climate has changed
These days, taking steps to reduce carbon emissions is almost part of a licence to do business. And that makes it the concern of everybody in the industry
- Comment
We are the champions
Awards build team spirit and remind clients and the public how important the industry is. In fact, we could do with a few more of them.
- Comment
Divided we fall
First person - The industry’s safety record has deteriorated badly, and the whole project team must share the responsibility for improving it.
- Comment
Pass the portal
First person Construction Internet portals promise the world, but do we really need them? If we do, it may be the small firms that win.
- Comment
Let’s learn our lesson
First person If it wants to attract the best young people, the industry needs to start listening to their views and aspirations.
- Comment
My life as a client
First person All domestic clients want is a quality mark, a simple domestic contract and 5% VAT on repair and maintenance.
- Features
Clash points
Contractors are happy to design and build – managing risk is part of their job description. But the corollary is that clients must allow them the freedom to do their job, and they cannot if designers are novated.
- Features
Clash points
Yes, the clause should be redrafted, but Ann exaggerates its vulnerability to exploitation by inefficient contractors. In fact, inefficient architects are much more likely to benefit.
- Features
Clash points
Should natural justice apply to adjudication? If it does, you can kiss goodbye to the main purpose of the Construction Act. Fortunately, it doesn’t. So that’s OK then?
- Features
Clash points
The results of the report were striking, and we know from all the demonstration projects that Egan is being taken seriously by the industry – and by many of its most important clients.
- Comment
Clash points
Stakeholder clauses, which require money paid as a result of an adjudicator's decision to be held by a third party, are legal and offer protection to parties nervous about new adjudication.