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PRESS RELEASE (23 September 2005)

The need for integrating value and risk

Value management, value engineering and risk management are used side-by-side by practitioners but very frequently without any coordination. Integrating risk and value management processes is more efficient, creates a fuller picture to help project decision-makers develop an understanding of opportunities and uncertainties and promotes a common team understanding and coordinated effort to realise the client’s objectives.

CIRIA’s versatile new toolkit Integrating value and risk in construction (C639) helps clients and construction professionals integrate existing value management, value engineering and risk management methodologies from the initial concept of a proposed project to the successful delivery of the facility. Once construction is complete, the facilities manager and others can continue the process throughout the life of the facility.

The toolkit provides a structured practical approach to identifying and agreeing the client's project objectives after taking into account the full range of opportunities and uncertainty. Its procedures aim to ensure that the built facility meets those objectives throughout its life and represents best value. Integration toolboxes are provided for each stage of project development and these are supported by guidance on workshops, guided discussion and development of a communications plan.

To buy a copy of Integrating value and risk in construction (C639) or to download a ‘try before you buy’ version, visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (21 September 2005)

Training for sustainable draining

Sustainable drainage systems are arguably one of the most significant developments in urban drainage in recent years. Consequently awareness and their implementation in developments is increasing steadily. In order to ensure this continues it is vital to provide practitioners with the best possible information, and the confidence to implement the guidance as well as use SUDS within developments.

CIRIA and Sustainable Drainage Associates will be holding a series of training modules in Loughborough on the following dates:

SUDS fundamentals, 24 November 2005
Designing SUDS, 17 and 18 January 2006
Planning and evaluating SUDS, 16 February 2006
Maintenance and adoption of SUDS, 28 March 2006.

These training modules have been developed to build on current SUDS guidance and assist with the dissemination and implementation of good practice. The training programme will enable practitioners to efficiently plan, design, construct and manage SUDS schemes in accordance with best practice guidance and the relevant legal and regulatory framework.

The 2005/6 programme will retain the same format as the successful series of SUDS courses held in 2004/5 and will aim to achieve the same high level of acclaim; CIRIA reported that, of those who returned feedback, around nine out of ten delegates reported the workshops to be either excellent or good, overall. One delegate completed a SUDS workshop with "…the confidence that I can find all I need to know within the sources referred to in the course". Another praised the courses for "…taking the ‘mystery’ out of SUDS and what maintenance was required etc…"

Delegates can either attend individual modules or a combination of two or more. Each module will be led by recognised practitioners and experts, and has obtained Continuing Personal and Professional Development (CPD) from CIWEM, ICE and other construction organisations. Participation in the training will also be recorded on the CIRIA SUDS website and participants will be given a certificate.

For further information or to register for any of the forthcoming events, visit www.ciria.org/workshops.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (3 August 2005)

Flooding – 'repair' for the worst

Many thousands in the UK have suffered trauma and devastating damage to homes and valuables as a result of flooding. In the UK, nearly 2 million properties built in or around floodplains are potentially at risk of flooding, and a further 80,000 properties are at risk in towns and cities from flooding caused by the occurrence of heavy rainfall. It is estimated that in England and Wales alone, 4 million people are at risk. Flood damage to buildings range from minor effects on walls, floors, basements and services to serious structural damage. However, practical steps can be taken to reduce the cost of flood damage and to speed up recovery times should floods reoccur.

CIRIA’s new publication Standards for the repair of buildings following flooding describes causes of flooding and the impacts it can have on buildings, gives advice on what to do in the immediate aftermath of flooding, sets out how to conduct post-flood surveys and future flood risk assessment and offers standards for repairing buildings that have been affected by flooding to improve their flood resistance. The guide is aimed primarily at building professionals and insurers experienced in flood damage and repair. It may also be used by general builders, surveyors and building-owners, including householders, for advice in commissioning repair work.

To purchase a copy of Standards for the repair of buildings following flooding (C623), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (20 July 2005)

Twin Rivers Diversion Scheme at Terminal 5 wins environmental award

The Twin Rivers Diversion Scheme — part of Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 (T5) project — has gained a CEEQUAL ‘Whole Project Award’ with a score of 92.7% after the project was completed on budget and ahead of schedule.

The £4.2 billion T5 Project is one of the largest construction sites in Europe. One of the most time-critical sub-projects of the T5 construction programme was the diversion of two rivers around the western perimeter of the airport (Duke of Northumberland the Longford River) from their original alignment through the middle of the site. This complex scheme not only involved the re-routing of two rivers but also the realignment of a live carriageway. The challenge was compounded by strict time constraints and the works’ close proximity to local residents. Further restrictions to site activities resulted from the overhead flight path of the world’s busiest international airport.

Archaeological, waste management, ecological and landscaping considerations played an important part in the CEEQUAL assessment. Investigations by a dedicated archeological team took place before any construction started, with significant findings relayed at a series of public exhibitions. Where practical, waste was segregated on site then recovered and recycled at the T5 waste facility. A major programme of landscape enhancement was implemented within the western corridor of the airport by planting over 450 semi-mature trees, 2,000 semi-mature native shrubs and 100,000 evergreen groundcover shrubs. A translocation programme for water voles, plants, fish, freshwater mussels and riverbed silts from the original rivers assisted regeneration of the aquatic environment within the new channels.

CEEQUAL is an awards scheme assessing the environmental quality of civil engineering projects. Its objective is to encourage the attainment of environmental excellence in civil engineering projects, and thus to deliver improved environmental performance in project specification, design and construction. To find out more about CEEQUAL visit www.ceequal.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) ceequal@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (14 July 2005)

Turning over more than just old ground

Land contamination professionals face challenging times. As well as the Landfill Directive, they must also content with the Waste Acceptance Criteria (WAC). However, the application of alternative process-based technologies is still limited through a number of practical and regulatory barriers.

CIRIA’s annual contaminated land conference, Brownfield legislation and best practice – the challenges ahead will explain how WAC and Hazardous Waste regulations affects the management of contaminated land and speakers will provide case studies illustrating good practice examples of brownfield site redevelopment. Topics covered will also include: recent Government and regulatory policy, landfill site availability, how to deal with special sites such as Unexploded Ordinance and the potential conflict between Brownfield redevelopment and environmental issues including flooding in the areas such as the Thames Gateway.

CIRIA’s annual contaminated land conference will take place at the Cavendish Conference Centre in London on 17 October 2005. For further information or to register to attend, visit www.ciria.org/events.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (12 July 2005)

A climate for developers

It has become widely accepted that our reliance on fossil fuels for transport and energy generation increases greenhouse and contributes to climate change. Construction developments are exposed to a wide range of climate-related risks, such as subsidence and heave, slope instability, mould growth, flooding, degradation of building fabric (particularly cladding) and damage from wind-related events. As the UK's built environment stock is generally expected to last between 50 and 100 years it is essential for the construction industry to understand how projects can be designed today to allow for the uncertain climatic conditions of tomorrow.

The G-8 summit in Gleneagles failed to set any targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and similarly there is little evidence of mainstream UK construction companies implementing (or even considering) possible measures to reduce the impacts of climate change. Construction industry professionals and developers who ignore the risks posed by climate change do so at their financial peril. They could face higher insurance premiums, greater maintenance costs, indirect costs associated with reputation and costs relating to contractual arrangements with buildings and infrastructure not meeting the design life.

CIRIA’s new publication Implications of climate change for the construction industry (C638) advises that climate-related issues should be addressed through risk-based processes, as the magnitude and timing of climate changes are uncertain. It explains the possible consequences of climate change for the construction industry and provides designers and constructors with a method for assessing risk (such as those associated with ground movement, rain penetration and wind loading) and how they should be managed, enabling rational decisions to be made about whether to incorporate climate change consequences in project planning.

To buy a copy of Implications of climate change for the construction industry (C638) visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (5 July 2005)

Ten major companies trial sustainable construction KPIs

A Key Performance Indicator (KPI) measures the performance of an activity that is important to the success of a company and may provide a route to external benchmarking of performance, enabling well-performing companies to be more readily distinguished from competition on the market place. Despite intensive development of industry KPIs, practical understanding of their implementation is in its infancy.

CIRIA’s guidance Sustainable construction: company indicators (C563) identified a series of KPIs against which companies could measure the sustainability of their business and the activities they perform. These KPIs have since been trialled by the Pioneers Club, which included ten major companies: Taylor Woodrow Construction, Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering, Buro Happold, Atkins, Arup, MWH, Carrillion, Skanska, John Laing and WSP.

CIRIA’s new guidance Sustainable construction – implementing targets and indicators (C633) contains case studies from the ten companies and as well as setting out some of the drivers behind sustainable construction and explaining the benefits and purpose of indicators.

To buy a copy of Sustainable construction – implementing targets and indicators (C633), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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Apr-Jun 2005

Getting ready for new CDM Regulations (29 June 2005)
Making the most of developing the coast (24 June 2006)
CIRIA announces new board member (19 May 2005)
Offsite versus traditional construction methods (5 May 2005)
Make knowledge work for your organisation (27 April 2004)
CIRIA to take part in the Low-Energy Homes conference (15 April 2005)
CIRIA’s contaminated land solutions on show (14 April 2005)
CIRIA’s award-winning guidance for sustainable construction (13 April 2005)
Sustainability performance enters the spotlight for investment decisions (12 April 2005)
Paving the way for sustainable drainage (8 April 2005)

PRESS RELEASE (29 June 2005)

Getting ready for new CDM Regulations

The HSE has published a Consultative Document (www.hse.gov.uk) which sets out the Health and Safety Commission’s (HSC) proposals for a single set of Regulations, and supporting guidance, covering construction work in Great Britain. The proposed Regulations would consolidate and revise provisions in the Construction (Design and Management) (CDM) Regulations 1994* and the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) (CHSW) Regulations 1996**, which implemented the Temporary or Mobile Construction Sites Directive (TMCS) (1992/57/EEC)***. Reasons for replacing the old legislation and what is intended for the future are included in the document. The new regulations will follow and come into play during 2006.

So, what’s new? The clients’ role is to become even more centre-stage; the new regulations replace not only the old 1994 CDM Regulations but also the Construction (Health Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996; aim to simplify and clarify what duty holders need to do, so they can easily identify and understand their role; the HSE is looking for the industry to respond in a holistic manner.

CIRIA’s CDM guidance, training material and CDs have been regularly updated and widely disseminated across industry for over a decade and, in light of the HSE Consultative Document, will need to be updated and/or replaced once more. To consider what should be done and how, a small working party of CIRIA Core member representatives will meet this summer.

To find out more or to get involved, visit www.ciria.org/cdm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

Note to editors

* Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 1994/3140, as amended by SIs 1996/1592, 1998/494, 1999/3242 and 2000/2380.
** SI No. 1996/1592, as amended by SIs 1998/494, 1998/2306, 1998/2307 and 1999/3242.
*** The TMCS Directive is currently implemented in Great Britain mainly through the CDM and CHSW Regulations. The full text of Directive 57 of 1992 can be found at http://europa.eu.int/

PRESS RELEASE (24 June 2005)

Making the most of developing the coast

The coast and seas are busy places, and managing these areas in a sustainable manner must take into account some very complex issues and a multiplicity of requirements. With 250 government agencies and local UK coastal authorities with responsibility in the coastal zone, as well as numerous commercial, recreational and conservation organisations, it is inevitable that conflicts of interest can arise.

Offshore development – new frontiers of opportunity (a CoastNET conference in association with CIRIA) will promote new ideas and understanding between the relevant industries, policy makers, planners and environmental groups. It will explore technologies that enable new uses for the marine environment, economic and social benefits for coastal regions from offshore development and how development can be integrated into long-term coastal strategy.

The conference will start with a Ministerial welcome, followed by the keynote address, ‘Challenges and visions for offshore development’ from E-on Renewables Director, Jason Scagell. Separate sessions throughout the day will cover issues such as land reclamation, artificial reefs, wave and tidal energy and fixed offshore structures, and will conclude with a summing up of the challenges facing the marine environment.

Offshore development – new frontiers of opportunity will take place on 15 September 2005 at the English Heritage Centre, London. To find out more visit www.ciria.org/conferences.htm or contact CIRIA Events Management Services, Classic House, 174–180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. Tel: 020 7549 3300; fax: 020 7253 0523; email: enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (19 May 2005)

CIRIA announces new board member

John Miles, Chairman of the Global Consulting Sector at Arup, has been elected to serve on CIRIA's Executive Board.

John was formerly Chairman of Arup's Business Investment Executive and its Corporate Services Division. His earlier professional experience lies in the area of design for high performance structures, including mechanical, civil and structural design for buildings, and the structural/mechanical design of road vehicles and rail systems under extreme loadings. Latterly, design for manufacture became an area of expertise, with a particular emphasis on factory-built systems for housing and construction.

John is the author of numerous technical and business publications, and is visiting Professor of Design Principles at Warwick University. He has also served as a Director of the U.K. Housing Forum, and a Commissioner with CABE (Commission for Architecture in the Built Environment).

Tim Broyd, CIRIA's Chief Executive said, "John's substantial industry experience and commercial acumen will be of great benefit to CIRIA's Executive Board. I look forward to working with him as we continue our drive to develop exciting new initiatives such as buildoffsite, the industry-driven initiative for the promotion of offsite techniques in UK construction."

For further information visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. Tel: 020 7549 3300; fax: 20 7253 0523; email: enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (5 May 2005)

Offsite versus traditional construction methods

Richard Ogden, Chairman of buildoffsite — the industry-wide campaigning organisation that promotes greater uptake of offsite techniques — will be participating in an offsite construction debate: offsite versus traditional construction methods, at the ecobuild 2005 conference and exhibition. The debate will ask: “are developer’s flexible and forward thinking?”, “how far has the MOD embraced offsite construction?” and will discuss offsite construction UK regeneration and new build housing projects.

Visitors at ecobuild 2005 exhibition are invited to visit the CIRIA stand to find out more about the CIRIA-managed initiative buildoffsite, and to also learn about how CIRIA is addressing many of the sustainability and environmental performance issues in the construction industry through its best practice guidance.

Ecobuild 2005 features a two-day high-level education programme, consisting of a conference and workshops dedicated to professionals involved in sustainable building design and environmental building performance. It takes place on 24-25 May 2005 at the QEII Conference Centre in London. Visit www.ecobuild.co.uk to find out more.

For further information about CIRIA’s activities visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. Tel: 020 7549 3300; fax: 20 7253 0523; email: enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (27 April 2005)

Make knowledge work for your organisation

All organisations are awash with information and knowledge. Problems arise when people in organisations don’t know what their colleagues know and organisations don’t know what their employees know; and have no way of finding out and organising it. The role of knowledge management is to identify what information and knowledge is important to the organisation, finding out where it is held, mobilising it so that staff can apply it in their work and — most importantly — making sure the information provided is used to create business value.

CIRIA’s new guidance Business case for knowledge management in construction (C642) examines how a structured case for developing and implementing knowledge management can be made and linked to company business strategy. Included with the guide is a CD-ROM containing PowerPoint presentations that can be used to demonstrate to senior decision-makers the value of developing knowledge management. This book is intended for anyone in the construction industry who sees the need to improve their organisation’s management of knowledge.

To purchase a copy of The business case for knowledge management in construction (C642), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (15 April 2005)

CIRIA to take part in the Low-Energy Homes conference

CIRIA, the UK’s leading construction improvement broker, will be exhibiting at the Mainstreaming Low-Energy Homes Conference, organised by Lothian and Edinburgh Environmental Partnership and the Energy Saving Trust. CIRIA is interested in discussing with delegates ways in which the opening of its new Scottish office in 2004 can facilitate improving the performance of the construction industry in the region. CIRIA has for a number of years worked with its Scottish members on its broad research programme which has included sustainable urban drainage; waste minimisation and energy efficiency in construction.

To find out more about CIRIA’s activities in Scotland and the development of new projects in the region contact Martin Squibbs at CIRIA on 01382 386093 or visit www.ciria.org; email scotland@ciria.org; or write to CIRIA, c/o University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 4HN

Mainstreaming Low-Energy Homes Conference takes place in Edinburgh on 18 May 2005. To request attendance, or for further information please contact www.leep.org.uk

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PRESS RELEASE (14 April 2005)

CIRIA’s contaminated land solutions on show

CIRIA will be launching its new publication Climate change risks in building - an introduction (C638) at International Clean Up (ICU) 2005. Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry; visit CIRIA’s stand at ICU 2005 to find out how CIRIA’s practical guidance can be used to assess and manage the associated risks.

Visit CIRIA on stand C82 at ICU 2005
NEC, Birmingham. 24-26 May 2005.

Also at ICU 2005, Visitors to the CIRIA stand are invited to find out more about the CIRIA-managed SAFEGROUNDS learning network (promoting good practice in the health, safety and environmental aspects of managing contaminated land on nuclear and defence sites) and LACL (providing local authorities with guidance on land contamination projects).

Both LACL and SAFEGROUNDS are enjoying their most productive years since their launches. LACL currently boasts around 75 local authority members and the first SAFEGROUNDS conference in March 2005 entertained around 150 delegates. Visitors to CIRIA at ICU 2005 can find out how those participating in the networks benefit from the range of CIRIA best practice guidance covering contaminated land assessment and remediation, brownfield redevelopment and environmental good practice. Details about CIRIA’s contaminated land research programme, including new project Risk assessment of selected ground gases for residential developments and the forthcoming annual CIRIA contaminated land conference in autumn 2005, will also be available.

For further information, visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. Tel: 020 7549 3300; fax: 20 7253 0523; email: enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (13 April 2005)

CIRIA’s award-winning guidance for sustainable construction

There are many benefits to running an award scheme based on sustainable construction. For construction clients and main contractors, such an award scheme provides a mechanism to encourage and recognise best practice, around a range of themes under the banner of sustainability. For supply chain companies such as designers, contractors and materials suppliers, an award scheme provides an excellent opportunity to gain recognition for their contribution to sustainability, from their client and the wider industry.

A new guide based on a study by CIRIA (in collaboration with BAA, Thames Water and Network Rail), Sustainable construction award schemes — guidance for supply chain leaders has been developed for use by construction clients and main contractors as a framework to help them develop and run an award scheme based on sustainability criteria for their own suppliers, contractors and designers. The guide will also be of interest to those competing for an award.

To purchase a copy of Sustainable construction award schemes (C619), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (12 April 2005)

Sustainability performance enters the spotlight for investment decisions

Environmental and social performance is becoming increasingly important both to socially responsible investors and to mainstream/traditional investors as they realise that these issues can influence economic performance and commercial risk. It is in the best interest of real estate and construction companies, and the investment community, to reach a common understanding of the most relevant social, ethical, economic and environmental (or sustainability) risks and opportunities faced by companies in the sectors.

CIRIA’s new guidance Investing in tomorrow’s company guides companies through the key steps of this process. It aims to help them understand how providing sustainability information can influence investors' decision-making; identify and prioritise the sustainability issues most relevant to their business - especially important for companies required to produce an Operating and Financial Review; measure, monitor and manage these issues; link sustainability performance to financial performance when communicating with investors; and develop an effective overall sustainability communications strategy appropriate for investors.

A summary guide aimed at company board members and traditional investors is available to download free from www.ciriabooks.com. To purchase a copy of Investing in tomorrow’s company (C636), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (8 April 2005)

Paving the way for sustainable drainage

Sustainable drainage systems are arguably one of the most significant developments in urban drainage in recent years. Schemes such as pervious pavements — recognised and championed by Defra, the Environment Agency, SEPA and many local authorities — are increasingly being used to mitigate the flows and pollution from rainwater runoff in densely developed built environments.

Interpave are running SUDS training events (delivered by CIRIA and Sustainable Drainage Associates in conjunction with The Concrete Centre), building on guidance produced by CIRIA and interpave, facilitating the effective implementation of pervious pavements in the built environment. The series of events, Pervious pavements systems will be held on the following dates:

• 5 May 2005, Camberley
• 19 July 2005, Manchester
• 23 September 2005, Edinburgh

These one-day courses will assist construction professionals with the specification and design of pervious pavements. Workshop sessions will include an introduction to pervious pavements, environmental and legislative considerations that should be included within the design, pollution removal mechanisms, the design of surfaces required to carry heavy traffic loads and a discussion about the standards required of materials to be used in the construction. Delegates will also be presented with design examples and case studies, and there will be a practical session about structural design.

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Jan-Mar 2005

Glazing at height (23 March 2005)
Major construction projects - reaching the business objectives and beyond (22 March 2005)
Making the most of your assets (8 March 2005)
Slip resistance of floors research project slides into action (4 March 2005)
Designing out the waste (2 March 2005)
Sustainable water solutions that keep on running (25 February 2005)
New guidance on whole life value procurement (24 February 2005)
Quelling floods at the planning stage (8 February 2005)
East meets west for CPN collaboration debate (7 February 2005)
University of Sheffield joins CIRIA Core (31 January 2005)
Engineering in the Lambeth Group (25 January 2005)
The alternative coastal route (20 January 2005)
Heritage versus development: the CIEF presents win-win solutions (19 January 2005)
SUDS is for life, not just the design phase (10 January 2005)
SAFEGROUNDS conference pushes for greater transparency and stakeholder participation (7 January 2005)
CIRIA awarded concrete structures research contract (4 January 2005)

PRESS RELEASE (23 March 2005)

Glazing at height

Glass is widely used throughout the world in the outer envelope of modern buildings Those involved in design, installation and maintenance will be all too aware of the importance of safety — particularly when glass is used at height. Breakage could result in injury or even death, followed by adverse publicity, disruption and potential legal action.

CIRIA's new publication, Guidance on glazing at height (C632) provides clear, consistent information on glazing used within both new and existing buildings and which has a potential to fall on breakage. Particular emphasis is given to the safety and attendant issues concerning glass façades, glass roofs and canopies, and glass barriers that protect a drop. Information is provided on glass manufacture and processing, the types, strength and breakage behaviour of glazing infill materials and glazing systems, the parties involved in the building life cycle, and the performance of glazing and its associated risks. Additional sections summarise existing glazing advice within the UK and consider the use of risk assessments in decision-making (including worked examples of glazing risk assessments).

The guide will be of value to clients, architects, engineers, specifiers, main contractors and specialist sub-contractors involved in the use of glass in buildings. Others concerned with the design, construction, maintenance, demolition and operation of buildings over time will also find this book a useful reference.

To purchase a copy of Guidance on glazing at height (C632), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (22 March 2005)

Major construction projects - reaching the business objectives and beyond

A construction project is part of a business process. It must meet business objectives and serve the needs of a range of stakeholders including customers, users, investors and neighbours. Concept development and project definition are vital to the project - not just its construction, but for its whole operational life. They must be thorough, systematic and, above all, consider the needs of all the parties - those who will make use of the facility, often over many years, those who have the job of constructing it, even those involved in decommissioning and demolition.

A joint Construction Productivity Network (CPN), ECI, EPMF and RICS conference, Building the future, (to be held 27 April 2005, Belfast) will address the issues surrounding conception and definition of major construction and engineering projects.

Speakers include Raymond Sexton, Tangible Technology Ireland (project definition and stakeholder involvement), Professor Rodney Turner, ESC Lille (new approaches to project governance) and Dougie Davidson, Thales Group Belfast (earned value management) and Peter Woolliscroft, NHS Estates (establishing the brief). This event is aimed at senior construction personnel including project directors and managers, public and private sector client organisations, contractors, specialist advisers, consultants and academic institutions.

For further information, or to register for this conference, visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (8 March 2005)

Making the most of your assets

Infrastructure can be defined as the basic physical fixed (e.g. buildings, pipelines, rail tracks) and moveable (e.g. train rolling stock, defence equipment) assets of a country, community or organisation. Modern project finance procurement routes require the concessionaire to operate the assets typically for 25 years and the tendered price takes maintenance over this period into account. Effective and efficient asset management and whole life value approaches therefore play an important role in the infrastructure owner's investment decisions.

CIRIA's new project Whole-life infrastructure asset management across industries (RP715) will promote opportunities for industry performance improvement offered by the adoption of leading-edge asset management practices. Different sectors such as construction, railways, highways, water or aerospace can learn from each other on infrastructure asset management practices; many face issues that are quite often similar to one another, although in different contexts. The project will aim to provide best practice guidance on whole life asset management from inter-industry learning and benchmarking. The scope will cover strategies, processes, plans, methods, techniques and case studies from the different industry perspectives.

To find out more about CIRIA's new project Whole-life infrastructure asset management across industries, or if you wish to provide a case study contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (4 March 2005)

Slip resistance of floors research project slides into action

The HSE collects records of accidents in the workplace and it is a fact that slips consistently form a high proportion of such accidents. The Health and Safety Laboratory has carried out a programme of work to gain a better understanding of the subject and to develop an easy-to-use tool to enable all concerned with floors to be able to make a rapid assessment of the safety of a floor, whether proposed or existing. The HSE wishes to make this knowledge more accessible and has selected CIRIA to manage a research project: Slip resistance of floors (RP713) to present the information and the tool in the form of a CIRIA report.

The HSE’s funding is supported by partnering industry funding from The Rail Safety and Standards Board, London Underground Limited, NHS Estates and The British Council of Shopping Centres — each bringing to the project their own needs and experiences. Together with others with relevant knowledge and interest, a project steering group has been formed and has just held its first meeting.

The research contractor selected for the research and writing of the guidance is Ove Arup and Partners Limited, closely supported by HSL. The work will include a workshop during 2005 to be attended by selected experts and industry practitioners, particularly those involved in supplying surfacing materials.

To find out more visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (2 March 2005)

Designing out the waste

Britain has sufficient landfill sites for the immediate future. However, most of the buildings being constructed today will reach the end of their design life within the next 30 to 70 years, by which time it is almost certain that there will be a severe shortage of landfill sites. Since we must use materials to build, one way to avoid wasting them once they have been extracted or gathered from the earth's resources is to use them again and again.

CIRIA's new publication Principles of design for deconstruction to facilitate reuse and recycling (C607) explains how buildings can be designed to make them easier to deconstruct partially during their life for refurbishment, or wholly at the end of their life. The overall aim is to reduce waste by ensuring that components can be reused and materials recycled. This is achieved by considering various approaches at the design stage and indicating the best way of considering the lifecycle of the building elements, components and equipment. The guide also contains case studies that demonstrate current experience of designing for deconstruction.

To purchase a copy of Principles of design for deconstruction to facilitate reuse and recycling (C607), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (25 February 2005)

Sustainable water solutions that keep on running

SUDS and rainwater/greywater use systems are arguably the most significant developments in the sustainable management of water in recent years. They offer sustainable solutions for water resource issues and can help to alleviate the impacts of surface water runoff. The design and installation of such schemes is merely the beginning; what happens in the longer-term will determine their success and wider implementation.

Two new CIRIA documents, Model agreements for SUDS (C625) and Model agreement for rainwater and greywater use systems (C626) have identified the question of eventual ownership of the systems and in particular, who will maintain them, as a major challenge to achieving wider uptake of sustainable water management systems. It is essential to maintain and repair these types of systems properly if they are to perform consistently at design levels as well as to minimise health and safety hazards.

The two new guides aim to encourage the sustainable use and management of water within the built environment by providing basic advice on maintenance and how this can be facilitated by the use and development of maintenance agreements for rainwater and greywater systems and SUDS.

To buy copies of Model agreements for SUDS (C625) and Model agreement for rainwater and greywater use systems (C626) visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (24 February 2005)

New guidance on whole life value procurement

New guidance developed by CIRIA, TRL, ICE, Faithful & Gould and BRE (from a DTI-funded project) provides a clear understanding of the concepts and principles underlying the use and application of Whole Life Value.

Achieving Whole Life Value in infrastructure and buildings (BR 476) gives practical steps to unlocking Whole Life Value (WLV) to those who own, commission, design and deliver infrastructure and building projects. It explains methods, techniques and tools to achieve WLV in planning, commissioning and maintaining assets such as schools, offices, highways and repair and maintenance schemes. The guide contains a set of case studies illustrating the application of WLV principles on a selection of projects.

A series of workshops held around the country to launch the publication will include presentations on the WLV concept, case studies demonstrating application of the principles and demonstrations of tools you can use now. These events will be held on 10 March 2005, Bristol; 14 March 2005, Manchester; 16 March 2005, York; 18 March 2005, London and delegates will each get a copy of the guide.

Das Mootanah at CIRIA said: "Both public and private sector clients are increasingly trying to tackle issues such as whole life costing, risk and value, and sustainability from the earliest stages of project procurement. This often entails consulting with stakeholders, who often have differing priorities and objectives, to bring about not only business benefits but also benefits to a wide range of stakeholders."

For further information about the launch workshops email conferences@trl.co.uk. Achieving Whole Life Value in infrastructure and buildings is available to purchase from www.brebookshop.com

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PRESS RELEASE (8 February 2005)

Quelling floods at the planning stage

The effects of climate change, population growth and demographic changes mean that major flooding events are likely to become more frequent in the UK. The impacts of flooding can be devastating in terms of the cost of repairs, replacement of damaged property, loss of business and considerable personal trauma; planners, developers and the construction indust ry need to consider flooding risk as a material planning issue.

CIRIA's new publication Development and flood risk - guidance for the construction industry (C624) sets out practical guidance in assessing flood risk as part of the development process. It describes the mechanisms and impacts of flooding, whether caused by rivers, the sea, estuaries, groundwater, overland flow, artificial drainage systems or infrastructure failure. The guidance recommends a tiered approach to flood risk assessment and provides a simple-to-use toolkit to help practitioners complete the assessments. It covers UK planning policy guidance for development and flood risk and is aimed at achieving a consistent approach to the implementation of that guidance, which in turn should allow developments to be planned and designed more efficiently.

This guidance will be of value to developers, builders, designers and planners. The book also contains much useful background information for insurers, mortgage lenders, building owners and occupiers, and others involved in the development process.

To buy a copy of Development and flood risk - guidance for the construction industry (C624) visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (7 February 2005)

East meets west for CPN collaboration debate

Leading champions of construction improvement, the Construction Productivity network (CPN) — in association with Hong Kong Polytechnic University — run its first live video conference on Thursday 3 February 2005. The event, Advances in collaborative working in the UK and Far East, provided a two-way video link between CIRIA's London conference suite and Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

This event demonstrated the business benefits of collaborative relationships, compared experiences in the UK and Southeast Asia and provided a learning forum for others with similar interests. Highlights included an addresses about partnering from Steve Elliott, BAA (presented from London) and David Sorton, MTR Corporation (presented from Hong Kong). Attendance of this event was free for members of the CPN, CIRIA Core and Constructing Excellence.

CPN Manager Clive Winkler said: "Despite a distance of some 6,000 miles and an eight-hour time difference, attendees from both locations agreed that the good use of technology made it easy to exchange experiences and views with each other. The CPN hopes that the success of this event will lead to the development of similar initiatives in the future".

For further information about the CPN, its programme of events and how to become a member, visit www.cpn.org.uk or contact CPN Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (31 January 2005)

University of Sheffield joins CIRIA Core

CIRIA is delighted to welcome The University of Sheffield as a CIRIA Core member — the fifth university to join in a successful year which has seen 12 new member organisations sign up overall.

The University of Sheffield has more than 23,000 students, from 116 countries, and 5,500 staff. It is a world-class centre for research across a wide range of subjects in the sciences, engineering, medicine, social sciences and humanities. Sheffield's academic partners include leading universities around the world, international partnerships include Worldwide Universities Network (USA, Europe and China) and its partnership with Leeds and York Universities (the White Rose Consortium) has combined research power greater than that of either Oxford or Cambridge.

CIRIA Chief Executive, Tim Broyd said: “We are pleased to welcome The University of Sheffield into Core membership. The recent Lambert Review highlighted the potential of the university sector to assist industry in both research and knowledge transfer. As a leading construction information broker we have sought to respond; Sheffield is the latest top-flight university to join CIRIA’s ranks, and will help us to provide better two-way links between industry and academia”.

To find out more about CIRIA Core membership, visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (25 January 2005)

Engineering in the Lambeth Group

The Lambeth Group (formerly known as the Woolwich and Reading Beds) is a complex sequence of gravels, sands and clays present in parts of south east England and are encountered in sub-surface engineering works throughout Greater London; surface outcrops occur in Kent, Essex and Suffolk and in the Hampshire Basin. The considerable lateral and vertical variation within the Lambeth Group have been encountered by major construction projects such as the Jubilee Line Extension Project, Channel Tunnel Rail Link and Crossrail. Its complex stratigraphy has recently been clarified which, in turn, has led to a better engineering description and classification. Several recent major projects in central London have provided high quality ground investigations and laboratory testing which has allowed an improved understanding of the engineering behaviour and properties of its component units.

CIRIA's new publication Engineering in the Lambeth Group (C583) draws together this new information, and contains a review of case histories of construction in the Group. It provides guidance about the relation between these properties and the Group's widely different lithologies, the hazards they pose for construction, and appropriate ways to overcome them. Recommendations are given for investigating these complex materials. In addition to case study data, a comprehensive reference list and bibliography support the report. This is the latest in the CIRIA series of publications on the engineering properties of major UK soils and rocks which includes Engineering in chalk (C574), Engineering in Mercia mudstone (C570) and Engineering in glacial tills (C504).

(C583) is priced at £40 to CIRIA Core and New Books Club members and £80 to others. To buy a copy, visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (20 January 2005)

The alternative coastal route

The demand from coastal and river engineering for primary aggregate is increasing and is expected to expand further with the growing need for coastal and river protection works. It is recognised that this demand will need to be met, in part, by alternatively sourced aggregate. The Environment Agency target states that 20% of aggregates used should be from secondary sources.

CIRIA’s recently published Potential use of alternatives to primary aggregates in coastal and river engineering (C590) offers guidance aimed at reducing the impact of river and coastal engineering by promoting the use of alternative materials in place of primary aggregates. It provides more sustainable and cost effective solutions for river and coastal engineering, lists the available materials, assesses their suitability for use in the surrounding environment and identifies the technical and processing barriers to their use. It also contains case studies and makes recommendations for future research to enhance the use of alternative aggregates.

To buy a copy of Potential use of alternatives to primary aggregates in coastal and river engineering (C590) visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (19 January 2005)

Heritage versus development: the CIEF presents win-win solutions

In recent years added emphasis on urban regeneration and developing brownfield sites has consequently led to an increase in planning-driven archaeology. Archaeological investigations are often required to mitigate the environmental impact of development: if due consideration is not given early enough in the design phase unexpected delays and expenses may be incurred.

A Construction Industry Environmental Forum (CIEF) seminar Archaeology and construction: the benefits of effective planning and design will showcase good practice with respect to the preservation of our cultural heritage. Speakers including David Miles of English Heritage and Peter Hinton of the Institute of Field Archaeologists will provide insight into how addressing archaeological concerns in a proactive manner can realise significant benefits to the client and project team over the longer term. The event takes place on 16 March 2005 in London and will be of interest to developers, planners, contractors and designers. It will outline the planning framework for the protection of archaeology and the historic environment, highlight potential risks and demonstrate how heritage may enhance and add value to a development

CIRIA recommends this seminar for up to two hours towards CPD requirements with the ICE, CIOB, RIBA and RICS. For further information or to register visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (10 January 2005)

SUDS is for life, not just the design phase

Sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) represent a significant development in urban drainage practices. Awareness of SUDS is growing and sustainable drainage is increasingly being incorporated, but steps must also be built in to ensure a system's longevity. In longer-term Understanding of relevant stakeholder roles, the responsibility for maintenance and how to respond to changes in legislation are vital to the success of a SUDS system.

Maintenance and adoption of SUDS, (from the CIRIA and Sustainable Drainage Associates series of SUDS modular training events) will take place on 16 February 2005 in London.

Following the training, delegates should be able to prepare owners manuals including maintenance schedules, comply with regulations when dealing with SUDS maintenance operations and identify the most appropriate route for their adoption and maintenance. This module will be of particular interest to local authorities and other organisations wanting to facilitate the longer-term management of SUDS.

The workshop module is fully accredited for CIWEM and Construction CPD schemes. For further information on this event and other events in the series, visit www.ciria.org or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (7 January 2005)

SAFEGROUNDS conference pushes for greater transparency and stakeholder participation

CIRIA has announced details of the first annual SAFEGROUNDS Learning Network conference, which explores the opportunities to drive the implementation of good practice guidance, from different stakeholder perspectives. Participating stakeholder groups include non-government organisations, regulators, the nuclear industry and defence, community based organisations, local authorities, policy-makers and research organisations.

Managing contaminated land on nuclear and defence sites — driving good practice
10 March 2005, London

The focus of the event is on participation and transparency, which are key themes both for SAFEGROUNDS and the new Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA). Delegates will engage in discussion on the prospects for these organisations to shape and implement guidance whilst representing the best interests of individuals within UK society.

The programme includes presentations from various stakeholders including NDA Chief Executive, Dr Ian Roxburgh. There is also a conference debate and three different facilitated discussion sessions followed by question and answers. Feedback will be gathered throughout the day, to be applied in the future development of SAFEGROUNDS guidance.

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PRESS RELEASE (4 January 2005)

CIRIA awarded concrete structures research contract

CIRIA (in partnership with Imperial College) has been awarded a 30-month contract to research the Development of intelligent monitoring of concrete structures. The work is part of the DTI's Materials Metrology Programme of work and will guide the direction of future research activity.

The DTI has set out a number of project objectives, including assessing existing intelligent corrosion and damage monitoring technologies and life prediction models for concrete structures. The project will also define critical measurement parameters and look at the most suitable technologies to use, design protocols for data collection to be fed into prediction models to enable effective intervention and repairs and the identification of metrology-related developments needed to improve the design and operation of concrete structures.

The project team will produce two guides, Intelligent monitoring of the deterioration of concrete structures and Models for predicting the life of concrete structures. The guides will aim to help UK practitioners, particularly with respect to managing structures in a more formal manner, using life prediction techniques in appropriate situations and improving knowledge and skills in the use of intelligent monitoring.

During the work, Professor Nick Buenfeld of Imperial College will be liaising with other experts in this area and there will be opportunities for students at Imperial College to become involved. The project will be carried out under the guiding hand of an industrial advisory group who will meet periodically. There will also be workshops involving people who are active in the commercial activity of monitoring and interpretation - including the manufacture of instrumentation.

For further information about this study, contact Alan Gilbertson at CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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Oct-Dec 2004

Halcrow prize awarded for resource flow analysis paper
Managed realignment - making the most of the coast
'Open all hours' for refurbishment
Biodiversity and buildings
Don’t get in a lather — plan SUDS with confidence
Net gain for construction waste and resources
Sewage sludge in construction — not just a flush in the pan
Web site launched to promote socially responsible construction
Grow your own house!
Have you got designs on SUDS training?
‘Rub of the green’ for tradesmen and small construction companies
On-line hand for contaminated land
CPN celebrates ten years
Recognition for CIRIA’s contaminated land training
A plus for construction good practice

PRESS RELEASE (9 December 2004)

Halcrow prize awarded for resource flow analysis paper

The ICE has awarded the Halcrow Prize 2004 to CIRIA's Jeff Kersey for a paper entitled Resource Flow Analysis: measuring sustainability in construction, under the category for the best paper. It was published In the Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers: Engineering Sustainability earlier this year and was co-authored by Polly Griffiths of TRL Limited and Richard Smith of Viridis.

The construction industry is a major user of natural resources and as such has the potential to play a significant role in delivering sustainable development in the UK. Sustainability is discussed in reference to resource productivity, a key indicator of sustainability. To measure progress towards resource productivity robust data and indicators of success are required. The paper introduced the concept of resource flow analysis as a tool and described a study adopting this methodology to quantify the resource use of the construction industry. The total annual material resource requirement for the construction industry was identified to be over 420 million tonnes (Mt) in 1998. Data were presented on the material use, waste and emissions from the construction industry. Trends and influences on the industry in terms of resource use were also examined.

CIRIA Chief Executive, Tim Broyd said: “We are delighted to win this award. This success has been achieved through the collaborative efforts of the authors, typifying the way in which CIRIA has worked with others to improve the performance of the construction industry for over 40 years."

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PRESS RELEASE (29 November 2004)

Managed realignment - making the most of the coast

Managed realignment is a relatively new technique of coastal and estuarine flood management compared with wall and embankment design, beach recharge, and the use of groynes and rock structures. The approach to design has been developed over the past decade, but until now comprehensive guidance on the design and construction of such schemes has not existed.

CIRIA's new publication, Coastal and estuarine managed realignment - design issues (C628) encourages more sustainable design and construction for flood management, facilitates the wider and correct use of managed realignment and helps conserve and enhance natural coastal environments. The guide explains the objectives of managed realignment schemes, discusses how to assess the suitability of a scheme for a particular site and provides technical guidance on design and implementation. This publication is intended primarily for coastal and estuarine managers and will also be of interest to engineers, consultants, environmental regulators, geomorphologists, modellers, consenting authorities and environmental advisers.

Tim Collins of English Nature said, "Developed in the right way, managed realignment can reduce flood risk and offer the potential for creating new habitats for wildlife. CIRIA's new guidance offers valuable assistance to anyone wishing to gain a better understanding of the design and implementation of managed realignment as part of a long-term sustainable coastal and estuarine flood management strategy."

To buy a copy of Coastal and estuarine managed realignment - design issues (C628) visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (24 November 2004)

'Open all hours' for refurbishment

What happens when an organisation needs to refurbish its building but is unable to pack up and move somewhere else? They have to refurbish while the building is still being used. This presents a major problem for organisations in nearly every sector. It is inconceivable that hospitals, airports or prisons could simply close during refurbishment projects. Retailers, theatres or hotels rarely want to close while they are being refurbished because they will lose customers. Schools have the advantage of holidays, but have difficulties if a project is too large to be completed in holiday periods. Office refurbishment can be a major headache forcing organisations to interrupt their productive activities.

CIRIA's new publication Good practice guidance for refurbishing occupied buildings (C621) is aimed at anyone involved in refurbishing occupied buildings, including clients, occupants, designers and builders. It helps to ensure an efficient refurbishment that causes minimum disruption to business continuity, from public-sector institutions such as schools and hospitals, to commercial companies. The guide focuses on issues, from health and safety considerations and the need to avoid noise and pollution, to the effective separation of building work from the activities of the building’s normal occupants. Project planning, scheduling, communication and security issues are among the other topics covered. This guide includes numerous case studies and provides answers to some of the frequently asked questions that arise during the refurbishment of occupied buildings.

To buy a copy of Good practice guidance for refurbishing occupied buildings (C621), visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (22 November 2004)

Biodiversity and buildings

There is a wealth of ways in which developments can be designed to include more ecologically friendly features. Following consultation with some of the industry’s major stakeholders, CIRIA have just announced plans to produce a definitive guide.

CIRIA's new project Biodiversity and buildings aims to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ that covers the integration of biodiversity and sustainable drainage features in buildings. It will explore features that maximise biodiversity, rainfall attenuation and energy efficiency (e.g. alternative roofing schemes, living walls and wildlife boxes), but also offer practical guidance on how they can be best integrated into building design. All relevant issues, whether of a technical, structural or planning nature will be examined across a range of building types such as public, residential and commercial.

CIRIA project manager Mark Bentley said, “We plan to provide the best possible guidance to enable practitioners to improve the contribution buildings can make to biodiversity. This type of guidance, covering aspects such as runoff management and energy efficiency, we believe will help to bring biodiversity and sustainability to the fore."

To find out more about CIRIA's new project Biodiversity and buildings visit www.ciria.org/rp714.htm or contact Mark Bentley at CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (17 November 2005)

Don’t get in a lather — plan SUDS with confidence

Sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) represent a significant development in urban drainage practices. Awareness of SUDS is growing and sustainable drainage is increasingly being incorporated, but care is needed in their implementation. Being able to plan, specify and evaluate a SUDS scheme competently is vital to its success.

Planning and evaluating SUDS (from the CIRIA and Sustainable Drainage Associates series of SUDS modular training events) will take place on 19 January 2005 in London.

Delegates will gain an understanding of how to influence the SUDS planning process, discuss the information requirements for planning and specifying SUDS schemes — including developing design criteria for a site, --and critically appraising designs from consultants and practitioners. This module will be of particular interest to local authorities that are beginning to request SUDS and those developers that wish to respond in a proactive fashion.

Local authorities and SMEs are entitled to a discounted registration fee. The workshop module is fully accredited for CIWEM and Construction CPD schemes. For further information on this event and other events in the series, visit www.ciria.org/workshops.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (12 November 2004)

Net gain for construction waste and resources

CIRIA, the leading construction improvement products and services provider, has announced the launch of Construction waste and resources (www.ciria.org/cwr), a new website aimed at encouraging waste reduction and improved resource productivity in the building and civil engineering sectors. This new online resource is the result of a project carried out by CIRIA and Viridis which sought to take forward the findings of the Biffaward Construction Industry Mass Balance (CIMB) study. (1)

The site contains a searchable database of over 100 summaries of commonly used publications covering key topics related to general design and construction good practice, a section on sustainable development criteria, guidance on material optimisation and advice on waste management procedures and regulation. Other features include a case studies area, which provides examples of how other organisations are approaching waste reduction, a paper on model policies (produced by the construction waste and resources project team) taking account of existing planning policy in England, Scotland and Wales, as well as links to other useful websites.

This website is aimed at those who influence company policy, design and procurement decisions, or have responsibilities for procedures on site. However, previous knowledge of environmental or sustainability best practice are not prerequisites for using this site.

Visit www.ciria.org/cwr for further information.

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PRESS RELEASE (11 November 2004)

Sewage sludge in construction — not just a flush in the pan

The water industry produces over 1 million tonnes of sewage sludge each year. Traditionally most of this sludge has been recycled to agriculture as a soil improver or disposed of at sea. However, since 1999 sea disposal has been prohibited. Additional environmental and financial implications of disposing of sludge to landfill have led to the exploration of sustainable and innovative approaches towards sludge disposal or recycling.

CIRIA's new publication Use of sewage sludge in construction (C608) promotes a more sustainable route by assessing the potential benefits and risks of using sewage sludge derivatives within construction processes and materials. The report identifies several viable uses for sludge or incinerated sewage sludge ash for example, as a fine aggregate replacement in concrete and asphalt or as a sand and clay replacement in ceramic materials. Dried sludge can also be used as an alternative fuel in cement manufacture. The book also provides information and guidance on the health and safety implications, the positive and negative impacts on the environment, potential savings and the economic barriers to the use of sludge in structural materials.

Use of sewage sludge in construction (C608) is priced at £45 to CIRIA Core and CIRIA Books Club members and £90 to others. To buy a copy, visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (8 November 2004)

Web site launched to promote socially responsible construction

A web site has been launched to help to deliver socially responsible construction projects, in response to concerns that too few construction clients are making the link between social responsibility and sound business practice.

The web site (www.engageweb.org) has been developed for clients and their teams by the ENGAGE partners CIRIA, Forum for the Future, Sustainable Development Corporation and Buro Happold. It identifies the key social issues to consider when procuring, designing and constructing buildings and infrastructure. The site introduces the principles underpinning social responsibility, provides tips on how to get started and links to useful sites. In addition, subscribers to the password-protected ENGAGE Navigator will gain unlimited access to a guidance database searchable by project type (e.g. housing, transport) and issues involved (e.g. accessibility, community cohesion). Subscribers will also receive a publication entitled ENGAGE: How to deliver socially responsible construction – a client’s guide.

Social Responsibility means building trusting relationships with stakeholders, going beyond mere compliance with legislation to recognising and addressing the needs of all groups affected by the activities of an organisation, including staff, suppliers and local communities as well as customers and shareholders. Numerous case studies on the web site illustrate the role of social responsibility in successful projects, such as the regeneration of the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham and the Channel Tunnel Rail Link. To subscribe call CIRIA on 020 7549 3300, or visit www.engageweb.org

The website is part of the ENGAGE programme established to help improve awareness of social issues in construction and to assist clients and their teams in addressing them. The ENGAGE team are currently seeking a small group of companies with whom they can specifically tailor activities to suit their needs, including the development of technical advice, trialling of guidance, group workshops and the provision of training. For further information email enquiries@engageweb.org

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PRESS RELEASE (2 November 2005)

Grow your own house!

In 1998, over 20 million tonnes of construction and demolition waste went to landfill. This represents around 30-40 % of construction and demolition waste. Many traditional construction materials such as concrete use large amounts of energy in their production while materials made from crops generally use much less.

CIRIA has launched a new publication Crops in construction handbook (C614) to encourage the use of products from agricultural crops (including animal-based outputs from farming, e.g. wool) in the UK construction industry. Applications of crops cover areas such as insulation, light structural materials, geo-textiles, paints and wall finishes, floor coverings and finishes, and boards. The handbook focuses on currently available products, and how these can be used successfully in construction projects. Other products with future potential such as bio-composites, starches as construction protective packaging, are also featured.

The Construction Industry Environmental Forum (CIEF) are holding two events, From cork board to hemp homes: the growing use of crops in construction — planned for 7 and 14 December 2004 in Taunton and London respectively — to launch this handbook.

To buy Crops in construction handbook (C614), or to register for either of the events visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (29 October 2004)

Have you got designs on SUDS training?

Sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) are arguably one of the most significant developments in urban drainage in recent years. Consequently awareness and their implementation in developments is increasing steadily. In order to ensure this continues it is vital to provide practitioners with the best possible information, and confidence to implement guidance as well as use SUDS within developments.

A two-day event Designing SUDS (from the CIRIA and Sustainable Drainage Associates series of SUDS modular training events) will take place on 7 and 8 December 2004 in London.

This module introduces basic design information to reinforce the latest SUDS guidance and the current regulatory framework. The first day of the module will be on the elementary design principles. Day two will develop these concepts to an advanced level and discuss the approval and construction process. Following the training delegates should be able to design robust schemes that accommodate specific site requirements.

Local Authorities and SMEs are entitled to a discounted registration fee. The workshop module is fully accredited for CIWEM and Construction CPD schemes. For further information on this event and other events in the series, visit www.ciria.org/workshops.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (27 October 2004)

‘Rub of the green’ for tradesmen and small construction companies

Professional builders and tradesmen often don’t have time to consider the environmental impact of their work, or the money that could be saved by improved environmental management.

CIRIA’s new pocketbook The Essential Green guide has been designed specifically for professional tradesmen and provides concise advice and information. The practical nature of the guide will help improve awareness of relevant issues and demonstrate how improving performance and being ‘greener’ could save money. The guide provides advice on areas such as buying and storing materials, preventing pollution and considering neighbours and includes easy to use checklists and summaries of relevant legislation to help identify environmental problems on site, minimise costs and improve existing performance.

Steve Millward, Environment and Quality Director, Jewson Limited said, “These guides will help professional tradesmen improve their profitability and play their part in reducing the building industry’s environmental impact”.

The Essential Green guide is available from CIRIA and is priced at £2.99 a copy. To buy copies or to find out about special prices for bulk purchases, visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174 - 180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (25 October 2004)

On-line hand for contaminated land

CIRIA’s has launched contaminated-land.org, the portal for contaminated land information in the UK. This free website is a one-stop shop for professionals and provides good practice guidance and information on all aspects of contaminated land.

This site contains a searchable database of over 200 commonly used contaminated land guidance publications and summaries, published standards, technical reports, training packs and legislation-related documents from CIRIA, Environment Agency, SEPA, DTI, NHBC and DEFRA. It also has details of software packages most widely used in the UK for the assessment of contaminated land, including the Contaminated Land Exposure Assessment Model (CLEA 2002) and LandSim, a risk assessment model developed by the Environment Agency.

In addition to the database and details of software packages, other aspects of the web-site include a glossary of terms used in contaminated land, links to other useful contaminated land websites and a facility for users to submit details of new publications for addition to the database.

Click here for further information.

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PRESS RELEASE (22 October 2004)

Leading construction improvement network celebrates ten years

The Construction Productivity Network (CPN) marked its tenth anniversary yesterday evening at the new Foster-designed Tanaka Business School, Imperial College London, with
around 100 leading industry practitioners in attendance
including many CPN partners, funders and followers, past and present.

CPN began in 1994 when Sir Michael Latham’s seminal report ‘Constructing the Team’ was first issued. The audience was delighted to hear Sir Michael review the impact of his report and his thoughts and reflections on industry progress over the last decade including many of the topics covered by CPN.

In ten years CPN has held over 330 interactive learning workshops where practitioners can advance their knowledge on a wide range of topics concerned with innovation, productivity and the overall improvement of the industry. More than 11,000 delegates have attended CPN events.

CIRIA Chief Executive, Tim Broyd said: “We at CIRIA are delighted with the success of CPN which continues to be a unique asset for the industry. We are immensely grateful for the financial support given to CPN by Constructing Excellence, CIRIA Core members, CPN members and a wide range of other sponsors”

For further information about the CPN, its programme of events and how to become a member, visit www.ciria.org/cpn_intro.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174 - 180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 20 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (20 October 2004)

Recognition for CIRIA’s contaminated land training

CIRIA's project, Implementation of remedial options for contaminated land - training material, was highly commended in the Awareness raising/education on waste minimisation category for the Biffaward Awards 2004, yesterday evening at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Wetland Centre, London.

The project resulted in the launch of a CIRIA training pack designed to help those involved in the management of contaminated sites to understand the procedures in the implementation of the remedial options. For further information, or to buy a copy of Implementation of remedial options for contaminated land - training material (C612), visit http://www.ciriabooks.com

CIRIA Chief Executive, Tim Broyd said: “We are delighted at winning a highly commended place at the Biffaward Awards 2004. CIRIA has been at the forefront of contaminated land research for more than 15 years, an achievement which would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of CIRIA staff and the continuing support of many organisations across a variety of sectors. The award will reinforce our commitment to work with all involved in the construction and related industries to seek sustainable solutions to real industry problems.”

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (19 October 2004)

A plus for construction good practice

CIRIA, the leading construction improvement products and services provider, has announced the launch of Compliance Plus, the new online resource linking construction good practice to environmental legislation. The new website focuses on providing guidance on environmental good practice in construction to complement the legislative information provided on the recently launched Environmental Regulators' NetRegs website.

The site is easy to navigate and is intended to act as a guide to anyone involved in, or planning to undertake construction activities, whether they are a sole trader or working for a larger contracting or design organisation. Much of the information references CIRIA publications, which themselves contain routes to further information. There are business area and business process pages, designed to provide a simple introduction to a variety of construction practices. For the more experienced construction professional, the guidance section for environmental good practice advises on areas such as material storage, contaminated land, noise, emissions and waste.

CIRIA Project Manager, Greg Chant-Hall said, "understanding and responding to the often-complex regulations affecting your environmental obligations can be a daunting task, especially for smaller companies. Compliance Plus helps to bridge the gap in knowledge by providing easily understood guidance and where to find other relevant advice and information."

Visit www.ciria.org/complianceplus for further information

ENDS

Jul-Sept 2004

Constructing around wildlife – answers not questions
Leading construction improvement network celebrates ten years
Train to drain - new SUDS workshops
Natures way to sustainable drainage
Be your own health and safety officer
CIRIA contaminated land training shortlisted for award
CIRIA annual contaminated land conference
CIRIA’s line on linear construction
From landfill to liability
Constructing Excellence, Be and CIRIA in talks over convergence

PRESS RELEASE (30 September 2004)

CIRIA at SCOTBUILD 2004

CIRIA will be exhibiting at SCOTBUILD 2004 – Scotland's largest construction event – to coincide with the October opening of CIRIA’s new Dundee office which will be dedicated to serving the Scottish construction industry. Established for over 30 years, SCOTBUILD combines building, construction and refurbishment and includes the RIAS annual lecture and a health and safety pavilion.

At SCOTBUILD 2004, CIRIA looks to reinforce its commitment to improving the performance of the construction industry in the region by working together with its Scottish members. CIRIA has worked with SEPA on SUDS projects and with Scottish Enterprise on regeneration and is looking to develop further projects in the region.

Each day at the event the first 50 visitors to the CIRIA stand will be able to collect a FREE copy of The Essential Green guide, which demonstrates how working in a “greener” way can help to save money and reduce costs. CIRIA will also be promoting its latest publications, events, and projects and will be giving away free membership at the show.

Visit CIRIA on stand 1326A

SCOTBUILD 2004 takes place on 2-4 November at the SECC, Glasgow. To register for a visitor pass and to find out more visit http://www.scotbuild.co.uk

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (14 September 2004)

Constructing around wildlife – answers not questions

*Do you know your legal obligations in terms of nature conservation?
*Do you know how to assess the potential risks to wildlife on or near your site?
*Do you know how to explain these issues to your colleagues or staff?

To address these questions, CIRIA has organised a series of training workshops based on the highly successful Working with Wildlife training pack.

Designed for those managing or working on construction sites, including clients, developers, consultants and contractors, these workshops provide an introduction to the impact of construction on wildlife and basic ecological concepts.

These one-day workshops will provide guidance on the key actions to be taken to actively manage construction’s impact on wildlife, deal positively with protected species and invasive plants, as well as practices to avoid and sources of further advice.

CIRIA has recently also launched the online Working With Wildlife resource centre, which provides access to 50 different briefing sheets and toolbox talks on protected species, invasive plants and UK habitats. From £1 per document, this new facility provides a valuable information source for both the large contractor and smaller builder.

For further information or to register for any of the forthcoming events, visit http://www.ciria.org/wildlife.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (27 August 2004)

Leading construction improvement network celebrates ten years

The Construction Productivity Network (CPN) was founded in 1994 to deliver leading-edge thinking and improvement opportunities to the construction industry. To mark its ten-year anniversary, the CPN has organised a workshop and reception for its members in October 2004 at the new Foster-designed Tanaka Business School. The theme of the workshop will be ‘The journey to improvement – Progress over the last ten years and issues for the future’. Speakers will include Sir Michael Latham and Professor David Gann.

Over the last ten years the CPN has held over 320 workshops throughout the UK for some 11,000 delegates, helping to promote increased productivity awareness. Events have embraced a range of key themes, currently including knowledge management, innovation in IT and supply chain excellence, which have been delivered by over 870 expert speakers. Mature topics, such as partnering, are increasingly enhanced through the differing views of many experienced practitioners. Over 28,000 copies of workshop reports were electronically distributed to the construction industry in 2003 alone, ensuring widespread circulation within CPN member organisations. In celebration of its ten-year anniversary the CPN has announced that any non-member company wishing to join will be given a 50 per cent discount on their first year subscription. This offer is valid for a limited time only.

For further information about the CPN, its programme of events and how to become a member, visit www.ciria.org/cpn_intro.htm or contact CPN Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (26 August 2004)

Train to drain

CIRIA and Sustainable Drainage Associates will be holding a series of training modules in London on the following dates:

SUDS fundamentals, 18 November 2004
Designing for SUDS, 7-8 December 2004
Planning and evaluating SUDS, 19 January 2005
Maintenance and adoption of SUDS, 16 February 2005

The modules will build on current SUDS guidance and assist with the dissemination and implementation of good practice. The training programme will provide practitioners to efficiently plan, design, construct and manage SUDS schemes within the relevant legal and regulatory framework. The events will be lead by nationally recognised practitioners that have experience of implementing SUDS in a range of developments. Interactive course guidance will use a variety of learning styles to engage and inspire delegates and the modules will include a number of demonstrative group exercises and case studies.

Delegates may attend individual modules or a combination. Each is fully accredited for CIWEM and construction CPD schemes.

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (25 August 2004)

Natures way to sustainable drainage

The Sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) concept is to mimic, as closely as possible, natural drainage of a site in order to reduce the impact that urban development has on flooding and pollution of rivers, streams and other water bodies. Such systems offer the chance to enhance the urban environment and provide wildlife habitat. However, some perceived barriers to their up-take remain, sometimes due to a lack of information or misconceptions on their use, or uncertainty regarding their maintenance, once designed and implemented.

Two new CIRIA publications, Sustainable drainage systems – Hydraulic structural and water quality advice (C609) and Model agreements for SUDS (C625) have been developed to remove some of the perceived barriers that relate to technical and management challenges being faced by the industry.

CIRIA publication C609 summarises current knowledge on the best approaches to design, construction and management of sustainable drainage systems. The first part of the book includes general information relevant to all SUDS techniques. The second part contains detailed information about the design and performance of each technique. CIRIA publication C625 provides basic advice on the use and development of model operation and maintenance agreements for SUDS together with simple guidance on their incorporation into developments. It identifies maintenance considerations and provides an outline of ways in which the long-term responsibilities for the maintenance of the SUDS can be allocated. This book comes with three model agreement booklets and a CD containing electronic files of the model agreements. Both of these publications complement the National SUDS Working Group Interim Code of Practice for SUDS.

SUDS – Hydraulic and water quality advice (C609) is priced at £30 to Local Authorities and SMEs, £60 to CIRIA Core and Books Club members and £120 to others and Model agreements for SUDS (C625) is priced at £30 to CIRIA Core and Books Club members and £60 to others. To buy these books, visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (23 August 2004)

Be your own health and safety officer

Occupational ill health in the construction industry results in the loss of millions of days each year to time off. Many hazards encountered on site can cause irreparable damage to your health; in some cases permanent damage could arise even before you become aware of the symptoms. It is important to be aware of the activities and practices which may put you and others around you at risk.

CIRIA has launched a new publication, Site health handbook (C629) as a companion guide to CIRIA best seller, Site safety handbook (SP151). It identifies how to recognise risk and minimise the impact of construction sites and operations on the health of construction site workers. The publication provides specific guidance on dealing with hazardous materials to avoid ill effects on health and highlights the biological, chemical, physical and psychological hazards that may face those working on site. The handbook emphasises that it is everyone’s duty to reduce those dangers as much as possible and gives advice on personal protective equipment, first-aiders, accident reporting and health screening. The core section of the book, on the hazards associated with construction activities and materials, and their effects on specific parts of the body, is also supplied in PDF form on a CD-ROM, so that the information can be made available in handouts. The CD also contains PowerPoint toolbox talks for use in practical training sessions and site inductions.

Site health handbook (C629) is priced at £20 to CIRIA Core and New Books Club members and £40 to others. To buy a copy, visit www.ciriabooks.com or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (20 August 2004)

CIRIA contaminated land training shortlisted for award

CIRIA's project, Implementation of remedial options for contaminated land - training material, has been shortlisted to go forward to the final round of judging in the Awareness raising/education on waste minimisation category for the Biffaward Awards 2004.

The project resulted in the launch of a CIRIA training pack designed to help those involved in the management of contaminated sites to understand the procedures in the implementation of the remedial options. For further information, or to buy a copy of Implementation of remedial options for contaminated land - training material (C612), visit www.ciriabooks.com

This year's awards will be held on 19 October at the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust Wetland Centre, Barnes, London. For further information, please visit www.biffaward.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (18 August 2004)

CIRIA annual contaminated land conference

Minimising risks, maximising rewards — CIRIA’s annual contaminated land conference — to be held on 14th October 2004 in London, will explain how the different financial incentives and risk management approaches could help contaminated land practitioners tackle the recent brownfield redevelopment challenges.

The implementation of the Landfill Directive this July has put an end to the traditional off-site disposal applied in many brownfield redevelopment projects. At the same time, the demand for land remediation continues to grow as more sites are designated as ‘contaminated’ in this country. The conference will provide a forum to discuss the potential changes in the planning and other land contamination regimes and how these may affect the way in which various risks associated with contaminated sites, including landfills, are managed. Speakers, including Peter Braithwaite from Arup; Dr Brian Bone for the Environment Agency; Phil Crowcroft from ERM and Rob Pearson from English Partnerships will present their recent experiences.

For further information, or to register for this conference, visit www.ciria.org/conferences.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (16 August 2004)

CIRIA’s line on linear construction

The nature of linear construction projects (e.g. railway, road or pipeline construction) means that they ordinarily have a high interface with the natural environment, crossing differing types of land each with specific characteristics, different water regimes and different requirements for environmental protection. As a consequence such projects are often more complex than construction sites for buildings and pose challenges in the prevention of water pollution during construction. Moreover, the challenges can be on a significantly greater scale, with greater potential for cumulative damage, higher value and often higher profile. As a result, the practical application of good practice in preventing water pollution is often very different for linear sites and requires experience and guidance to ensure appropriate measures are taken.

Funded by The BOC Foundation, Environment Agency, Highways Agency and Defra, CIRIA’s new project Control of water pollution from linear construction projects (RP708) will provide environmental good practice guidance for the construction industry on controlling water pollution from linear construction projects during their construction. The guidance will cover the project lifecycle from planning, early environmental assessments and design considerations for the construction phase, through to commissioning. The focus will be on prevention of contamination of watercourses; essentially to improve the environmental performance and sustainability of industry.

For further information visit www.ciria.org/rp708.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

ENDS

PRESS RELEASE (5 August 2004)

From landfill to liability

The Construction Industry Environment Forum (CIEF) has announced a series of autumn events, From landfill to liability: new incentives not to waste, in response to the implementation of the Landfill Directive this year. Events will be held at the following dates and locations:

22 September, Birmingham
9 November 2004, Edinburgh
19 November 2004, London

Implementation of the Landfill Directive has stopped the co-disposal of hazardous (special waste) and non-hazardous waste to landfill. At the same time there has been a dramatic reduction in the number of UK landfill sites that accept hazardous waste, including contaminated spoil. As a consequence there are significant practical challenges facing the construction and demolition sectors but also greater incentives to reduce waste and utilise different ways of working.

This series of seminars will examine the implications of these legislative developments, including new powers and areas of responsibility in the management and disposal of waste. These seminars will also focus on how the industry should respond, examining the practical benefits of more sustainable waste management practices. Delegates will be able to raise questions with experts in this field, including those responsible for enforcing the new legislation and professionals providing legal and practical advice to the industry.

For further information or to register for any of the forthcoming events, visit www.ciria.org/cief_events_list.htm or contact CIRIA, Classic House, 174-180 Old Street, London EC1V 9BP. (T) 020 7549 3300; (F) 020 7253 0523; (E) enquiries@ciria.org

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PRESS RELEASE (23 July 2004)

Constructing Excellence, Be and CIRIA in talks over convergence

The Chief Executives of three of the leading UK construction industry change organisations have announced today that they have begun talks over convergence.

The three organisations Constructing Excellence, Be (Collaborating for the Built Environment), and CIRIA already work together on a regular basis. By exploring convergence they are hoping to set an example for industry and government to emphasize that a joined up approach is the only way of advancing the built environment agenda, including property, construction, civil engineering and infrastructure.

Dennis Lenard (Constructing Excellence) stated: “Each of the organisations has substantial industry commitment and financial investment in communication networks, databases and high level communication protocols and websites. There is an opportu

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