Alex Waddell

We are thrilled to be partnering with Jacobs to assist in delivering Digital and IT Professional Services (DIPS) to UK Ministry of Defence. Under this $1.52 billion initiative, our team of specialist Architects, Engineers and Project Managers will help the UK MOD to build and maintain a resilient, secure by design digital estate. We look forward to helping make a difference in these crucial areas.   #DIPS #UKMOD #UKdefence #digitaltransformation #cybersecurity

41

📅 13 - 19 May 2024 is Dementia Action Week in the UK. Jacobs' ACE Network, which supports colleagues with disabilities and other adaptive challenges along with those who care for others, will be hosting a panel event entitled: “Let’s talk about dementia.” Employees from across the business will share their personal experiences of different types of dementia, recommend resources and share tips to help each other. The session will hopefully be the start of important and helpful conversations for #OurJacobs community.   Did you know ❓ 1️⃣ There are different types of dementia, which can be present individually or as mixed dementia 2️⃣ Dementia is not a natural part of aging but is caused by different diseases that damage the brain 3️⃣ The likelihood of developing dementia increases significantly with age: 1 in 14 people over 65 have dementia, rising to 1 in 6 people over 80 4️⃣ Dementia can affect younger people too, often called young-onset dementia. Around 1 in 20 people with dementia are under 65   As well as raising awareness and sharing experiences, we are also fundraising in aid of Dementia UK, a charity providing support to those impacted by this disease. For more information or to donate, please click the links below 👇 Jacobs employees (matched donations): https://lnkd.in/e5iiyHqt Non-Jacobs employees: https://lnkd.in/e2uHXc4n #DementiaActionWeek #Dementia #Care #TogetherBeyond 📷 Bethany Fox, PhD

2

15 firms join Network Rail £3.5bn Eastern partnership to ‘streamline’ infrastructure works Network Rail has announced 15 firms that make up a partnership to “streamline” delivery of £3.5bn of #infrastructure works in the Eastern region during the five years of Control Period 7 (CP7), 2024-2029. The Eastern Routes Partnership (ERP) features the 15 firms split into four Lots, outlined below. 🔶Lot 1 – #Buildings and #Civils Generalist: AmcoGiffen, #Bam, Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure, Story Contracting Limited Specialist: Taziker (Structures), CK Rail (Geotech) 🔶 Lot 2 – #Signalling and #Telecoms Generalist: Amey, AtkinsRéalis Specialist: #Trackwork (Signalling), #Hawthorne (Telecoms) 🔶Lot 3 – #Contactsystems Generalist: Amey, Keltbray Specialist: Morgan Sindall 🔶Lot 4 – #Distribution and #Plant Generalist – Keltbray/Linbrooke Services Ltd Partnership, Octavius Infrastructure Specialist: Lowery Ltd The ERP will allow Network Rail’s Eastern region to award infrastructure improvement works directly to supply chain partners, which will improve #collaboration and #efficiency according to the rail operator. After being in place throughout CP7, there will be the option for the ERP to extend through CP8 (2029-2034). “Building this stability between the region and its partners means the supply chain will already be on-board when the work bank for CP8 is developed,” Network Rail stated. It added that by having this framework in place the need for individual procurement events is removed. This will save “valuable time” and ensure the Eastern region’s work is better value for money, while also allowing for earlier collaboration between the region and its partners on each project. The Eastern region accounts for almost a third (31.2%) of route km in England, stretching from #London to the #Scottish border, encompassing cities such as #Newcastle, #Leeds, #Sheffield, #Derby, #Norwich and #Cambridge. It looks after more than 1bn passenger journeys annually on routes including the #Midland Main Line and the East Coast Main Line. Network Rail managing director for Eastern region Jake Kelly said: “This launch is the culmination of two years of hard work to bring real innovation to our commercial delivery in CP7. The ERP framework is key to effectively maintaining our infrastructure to deliver a sustained improvement in train performance over the next five years." Keltbray Group CEO Darren James said the company was “delighted” to be appointed on two Lots and that it is part of the company’s “strategic plan to position Keltbray as a leading infrastructure services provider in the rail and broader decarbonised transport sector”. Octavius Infrastructure managing director rail Matt Smith said that the company’s appointment “continues to build on our strong relationship with Network Rail” and that the company is “proud to be supporting the country’s vital infrastructure, connecting millions of people every day”.

9

1 Comment

Social value is often limited to being a mere question in infrastructure procurement and needs to move to be central to purpose driven delivery of projects, says a report from Jacobs and the Major Projects Association. Read More >>> https://lnkd.in/ehu2Ybiw #SocialValue #InfrastructureProcurement #Jacobs #MajorProjectsAssociation

2

1 Comment

What is DfMA and how does it improve not only safety and quality of a build, but also sustainability? Buro Happold was appointed to deliver all major engineering services including Civil, Structural, and Building Services Engineering (MEP) for Everton FC’s new stadium, located on the Grade II listed Bramley Moore Dock. One of the major elements of our work was the DfMA approach to the stadium. Lloyd Baker, UK Director, Buro Happold, said: “Buro Happold and Laing O’Rourke have exemplified excellence in the application of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) on the Everton Stadium project, achieving remarkable efficiency and quality. “Their collaborative approach and innovative use of technology have set a new benchmark in the modern construction of stadia.” Our work on the DfMA principles and virtual prototyping at Everton Stadium has seen the construction of a future-proof development. Through early collaboration with the contractor, we delivered a construction phase ready design model, using DfMA principles to build a virtual prototype of the building, utilising different software and workflows. DfMA’s focus on efficiency naturally leads to the improved sustainability of construction projects. A reduction in the number of parts means less processing and, subsequently, a reduction in energy usage and carbon emissions, whilst also improving safety and quality.     Alix Waldron, Director of New Stadium Development at Everton FC, said: “It has been a pleasure to work with Buro Happold’s team in helping us create and bring to life our new home.     “All staff that our team have come into contact with have been incredibly knowledgeable, collaborative and committed to help us succeed in this momentous project.”    Find out more in the video below, and read the full DfMA story for Everton Stadium here: https://lnkd.in/gzfr7NRR #football #EvertonFC #Liverpool #UK #engineering #BuroHappold #DfMA #sports #stadium #stadia #MEP #structuralengineering #GradeIIListed #Everton 

56

2 Comments

The UK lacks skills and capacity for big infrastructure projects according to the Public Accounts Committee. Gill Plimmer in the Financial Times (£) including my quote highlighting that government is not only poor on major infrastructure project delivery but it is also being poor on knowing what it exactly wants to get out of major infrastructure projects. In addition, it is poor on monitoring and assessing major infrastructure project delivery, which, consequently, means that it is more difficult for it to benefit from experience and critically learn lessons from previous projects. https://lnkd.in/en2xpPUc #ukhousing #housing #ukhousingmarket #housingmarket #ukconstruction #ukbuilders #construction #builders #constructionuk #buildersuk #building #ukbuilding #buildinguk #constructionindustry #contractors #supplychain #constructionworkers #constructionworker #constructionwork #buildingmaterials #constructionmaterial #constructionmaterials #energycosts #energyprices #contractors #housebuilding #inflation #prices #labour #buildingcontractors #economy #civilengineering #business #insolvency #insolvencyandbankruptcy #ukinfrastructure #infrastructure #transport #HS2 #rail #roads #energy #renewableenergy #netzero #netzerotransition

51

5 Comments

A government decision on planning permission for the £9bn Lower Thames Crossing project has been postponed for at least another seven months. This delay impacts major shovel-ready #infrastructure projects that could boost the economy, either facing cancellation or remaining in the starting gates. The government's hesitation on this significant road building project raises questions about its future direction. The decision on the Lower Thames Crossing development consent order has been pushed back to 23rd May 2025, as confirmed by Transport Secretary Louise Haigh. This extension allows for more time to evaluate the application thoroughly, considering any decisions made as part of the spending review. With a 35-year history dating back to Margaret Thatcher's era, this project involves groundbreaking plans for a twin bored tunnel under the River Thames and the construction of new roads to connect it to key highways. The proposed tunnel would be the UK's longest and Europe's widest, showcasing the scale and ambition of this infrastructure endeavor. The uncertainty surrounding the Lower Thames Crossing underscores the complexities of large-scale infrastructure developments and the importance of thorough evaluation before major decisions are made. Stay tuned for updates on this pivotal project's future developments. Read more: [https://lnkd.in/e6zbjpXh] The Construction Index Ltd #Infrastructure #Economy #GovernmentDecision #LowerThamesCrossing

5

Discover the key findings of our recent industry survey in our latest report – 'Success in Quantity Surveying: Productivity, Job Satisfaction and the Role of Technology'. Find out the opinions and experiences of over 200 industry professionals in relation to job satisfaction, productivity, financial management, and technology adoption in the UK and Ireland's quantity surveying sector. Download the report here >> https://lnkd.in/gKY6H43C #QuantitySurveryors #ConstructionReport #Survey

2

Question Time Debate: Can the UK do major infrastructure projects anymore? The cancellation of the northern leg of HS2 in October 2023 dominated UK headlines and spotlighted weaknesses in the UK’s capability to plan and deliver major infrastructure projects. Questions have emerged on infrastructure planning, procurement and delivery, as well as the role of different stakeholders in this process. This panel debate, co-hosted by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Civil Engineers Club (CEC), will bring together a diverse group of policy-makers, senior infrastructure professionals, academics and other experts to debate the topic. Register here - https://lnkd.in/e-6N8DJr

22

2 Comments

Information delivery needs to be managed like any other project. We must procure the right resources to deliver, define the scope, set the programme durations and control the costs. Managing BIM and Information requirements effectively is as important as managing the physical construction to achieve assurance and handover to asset owners. Informed Engineering can help you. Contact [email protected] for more information. #ISO19650 #BS1192 #BIM #InformationManagement

9

Following several months of efficient planning and effective delivery, our UK Global Rail Construction Limited (GRCL) business has successfully completed Feltham Resignalling Phase 5, Works Package 1a, covering Signalling Installations, on behalf of partner AtkinsRéalis for Network Rail Wessex Capital Delivery. Feltham Phase 5 consisted of 3No interlocking areas, with 3No fringes to adjacent signalling control centres, and the renewal of 2No level crossings. The overall programme of Feltham & Wokingham re-signalling project covers 1 8-year, five phase renewal of all signalling assets controlled from Feltham Area Signalling Centre (ASC) and Wokingham Signal Box (SB). The project will renew 9No Route Relay Interlockings (RRIs) with new centralised ElectroLogIXS Computer Based Interlocking (CBI) controlled from Basingstoke Rail Operations Centre (ROC), transferring control from the existing Feltham Area Signalling Centre (ASC), and renewing all existing lineside signalling infrastructure and remote interlockings with centralised interlockings from the new ROC. GRCL’s significant rail systems sub-contract encompassed the installation, termination and testing of new lineside equipment including cabling, location case suites, AWS, TPWS, the existing train detection system replaced with a Frauscher Advanced Counter (FAdC) Axle Counter system and the subsequent recovery of all the old assets. The 2No electrically controlled Level Crossings were renewed to interface to the new ElectroLogIXS lineside equipment, replacing all Barrier Booms, Barrier Machines, Road Traffic Lights (RTL’s) to an LED type. New electrical Principal Supply Point (PSP’s) were also provided at Winnersh Triangle, and new Auxiliary Supply Points (ASP) were provided at Earley and Crowthorne. The PSP, ASPs and Functional Supply Points (FSPs) were implemented as a Class II based system managed by the Camlin Signet Auto Reconfigurable system. Our collaborative delivery and high-quality workmanship enabled an incredible result, working on some the busiest lines in the Southern region. Through a safe and solutions-based approach during this project, our signalling and power experts supported timely culmination and the successful commissioning of this newly signalled area. Read the full case study including testimony from AtkinsRéalis PM Gabriel Azevedo CEng MICE here: https://lnkd.in/e3kK4dUx #grcl #signalling #ukrail #teamwork #railwaysystemscontracting #theglobalinfrastructuregroup #rskgroup

74

In the highly competitive tender environment for major UK rail improvement schemes, Network Rail sets ever tighter deadlines and efficiency targets. To stand out and win contracts, demonstrating enhanced value is key. Checkpoint Authority – the only digital solution that streamlines authorisation, safety communications, and oversight, providing quantifiable proof of added project value. By integrating this innovative technology, proactive contractors can showcase significant productivity boosts and swift issue resolution. • Highlighting the time and cost efficiencies gained through the app’s capabilities can differentiate your tender. Eliminated process delays, overhead reductions, and enhanced compliance contribute to a more compelling bid. • Once selected for projects, supervisors and workers can spend more time on value-adding activities like inspections and task completion, delivering bottom-line benefits well beyond the tender stage. • Compliance with safety standards and responsible governance demonstrates a contractor’s ability to complete complex projects on schedule. By selecting Checkpoint Authority, your tender becomes the best value choice, demonstrating measurable efficiency and innovative processes. Book a Checkpoint Authority demo today and set yourself apart from the competition. Optimise your processes and maximise results for any Network Rail tender. [email protected] #CP7 #NetworkRail #RailIndustry

3

AECOM and Atkins among firms picked for £100m framework Five top #consultancy firms have been awarded #contracts valued up to £100 million to help deliver a raft of #infrastructure projects across several #localauthority areas. AECOM, AtkinsRéalis, Ramboll, Stantec, and WSP have all secured a place on West of England Combined Authority’s (WECA) renewed professional services #framework, spanning approximately four years.  The suppliers will support regional infrastructure delivery set out by #WECA and its members, by providing #research and #development (R&D) and related consultancy services as well as works under these categories: 💬 Market and economic research; polling and statistics  🌿 Environmental services  🌊 Consulting services for water-supply and waste consultancy  👷‍♀️ Construction consultancy services  👷‍♂️ Consultative engineering and construction services  👩‍💻 Project management consultancy services Initially, it had been WECA’s intention to award up to six suppliers a place on the framework instead of five. Procurement was through the combined authority, working in collaboration with Bristol City Council, North Somerset Council, South Gloucestershire Council, and Bath and North East Somerset Council. The framework can be utilised by all UK public sector bodies, including local authorities, health, police, fire and rescue, education and devolved administrations.  Use of the framework by these other bodies will be through an access agreement issued by WECA.  AECOM, AtkinsRéalis and WSP were on the previous version of the #framework which ended at the start of the year and was launched in 2018.    “Each #supplier is expected to have #multidisciplinary capability or access to deliver the contracts/work packages granted under the framework agreement,” WECA had previously stated. The estimated date for delivery is June 2028. Image Credit: Credit: Tom Fisk (Pexels). https://lnkd.in/eW349N6Z

6

'What are Main Contractors Prelims?'💭 In the context of Rail works, Main contractor’s preliminaries include the main contractor’s costs associated with; Management and staff, Site establishment, Temporary services, Security, Safety and environmental protection, Control and protection, Common user mechanical plant, Common user temporary works, The maintenance of site records, Completion and post-completion requirements, Cleaning, fees and charges, Sites services and insurances, Bonds, guarantees and warranties. Main contractor’s preliminaries exclude costs associated with subcontractor’s preliminaries, which are to be included in the unit rates applied to rail infrastructure works. #contractor #prelims #tender #bid #boq #takeoff #rail

4

1 Comment

Unlock Your Career Potential in Civil and Structural Engineering! 🚀 Are you a Civil or Structural Engineer looking for your next big opportunity? As a recruiter in this field, I've noticed a growing trend: the demand for skilled engineers in the UK has surged by 20% over the past year alone (source: EngineeringUK). This is an exciting time to be in the industry, with numerous innovative projects on the horizon. From towering skyscrapers to sustainable bridges, the work you do shapes the world around us. It's not just about technical know-how; it's about creativity, problem-solving, and making a tangible difference. If you've got the passion and the skills, the sky's the limit! So, let's connect! Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, there are countless opportunities waiting for you. Drop a comment or like this post to start a conversation. Let's build something amazing together! 💬🔧 #EngineeringOpportunities #CivilEngineering #StructuralEngineers

1

Ever wondered what lies ahead for Civil and Structural Design Engineers in the UK? 🌟 With a booming infrastructure sector expecting a 15% growth rate by 2025 (Office for National Statistics), now is the perfect time to discuss your career aspirations and opportunities. Whether you're an experienced engineer looking to make your next big move or a technician seeking to broaden your skillset, the landscape is ripe with potential. As a recruiter specialising in this field, I've seen firsthand the diverse opportunities available—from large-scale transportation projects to innovative sustainable building designs. It's crucial to align your career moves with your long-term goals. Are you looking to enhance your design expertise, take on leadership roles, or perhaps pivot into new sectors within engineering? Let's have a chat! 🚀 Your next career milestone could be just around the corner. Drop a comment or send me a direct message to start the conversation. 🌍🔧 #CivilEngineering #StructuralDesign #CareerOpportunities

1

Can the UK deliver major infrastructure projects on time and on budget? With Phase 2 of HS2 cancelled and Hinkley Point C facing delays, the ICE convened a debate about whether the UK can still deliver big projects successfully. Britain has long been known for its ambition when it comes to major, infrastructure projects. But where it succeeds in vision it often fails to complete projects on time and within an appropriate budget, as evidenced by #HighSpeed2 (#HS2), Crossrail and #HinckleyPointC. Such projects can put a country on the international #infrastructure map in terms of forward thinking and #modernengineering, but delays and cost overruns can sometimes overshadow their benefits. To examine what sits behind this challenge, the I#CE brought industry leaders together to debate whether the UK is capable of delivering major projects any more. Unity: While there is no doubt the UK has the engineering talent to bring the vision of the projects to life, Costain Group PLC enterprise programme director John Pelton suggested one explanation for why such schemes struggle. “I think we have huge engineering capability, excellent companies and some excellent people but I’m not sure we’re that good at bringing it all together,” he explained. Pelton described how the inability to tie Britain’s capabilities together heavily affects its ability to assess projects in a realistic format and honestly portray how much the work is going to cost. In 2013, before construction of HS2 began, a statement of expense submitted to Parliament put the total cost of phase 1 at £19.4bn. This increased to almost £27bn by 2015 and rose again when former HS2 (High Speed Two) Ltd chair Doug Oakervee stated the costs could be between £36bn and £40bn in February 2020. This was just before the then prime minister Boris Johnson gave the project the green light. Reflecting on why the costs have risen so steeply, Pelton said that, although the increases attracted public criticism, the public had played a part. “The costs back then were done in a genuine and thorough fashion, they weren’t just plucked out of the air,” he said. “This was before we’d had four years of petitioning where the #political control was not strong enough to stop the tunnels growing from 20km to 60km and all the other constraints that were imposed. “Why has it gone up so much? The answer is not because the cost estimating was badly or unprofessionally done, but because the whole system is not geared to be frank and honest about the costing in the first place.” Tecnica y Proyectos SA (TYPSA) #structuralengineer Svetlana João agreed and said the delivery of major infrastructure projects should align with the leadership responsibilities of government rather than being dictated by public opinion. https://lnkd.in/dxuEuhha

15

1 Comment

In his blog, my colleague Bobby talks about how he used his Royal Navy expertise to achieve his career dreams with AtkinsRéalis. He shares how he has been able to use his skills in project management in our North West Project & Programme Services team, as well as support other ex-armed forces colleagues joining us. Follow for more employee stories and job openings! #InsideAtlinsRéalis #EngineeringBetter

2