Materials
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Builders face immediate shutdown risks over engineered stone cutting practices. The FMB warning follows HSE inspections targeting silica dust exposure on sites and fabrication workshops.
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Circular construction is becoming a commercial and environmental priority for refurbishment. Luca Sidoli, sustainability manager at Pexhurst, considers how SME contractors can move beyond linear waste models, support clients with reuse strategies, and make circularity more practical across the refurbishment sector.
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JELD-WEN is relocating Sheffield operations to Bessemer Park this year. The new facility has been designed around BREEAM Very Good, EPC A, solar PV, intelligent lighting, and improved manufacturing efficiency.
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TrueNorth has launched a construction acquisition platform targeting specialist trades. The group is focusing on MEP, façades, external envelope, manufacturing, and offsite construction as remediation demand reshapes the market.
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Solvanta has launched to serve social housing materials demand directly. The MKM-backed business will focus on repairs, maintenance, and planned works supply.
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LKAB Minerals and Real Green Concrete are targeting OPC-free mixes. The companies have signed an MoU to develop low-carbon concrete using industrial by-products and cementitious materials.
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Builders’ merchants recorded weaker first-quarter sales as volumes fell sharply. BMBI reported like-for-like value sales down 3.2%, with heavy building materials falling 6.7% by value.
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Build Warranty has widened assurance for 3D printed housing projects. The move gives HTL.tech’s construction printing system a clearer route through warranty, lender, and developer acceptance.
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CDE will return to Hillhead with its ProPress filter press. The wet processing specialist will highlight clay recovery across aggregates, construction waste, dredging, tunnelling spoil, and circular materials.
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Cladding choices are being reshaped by sustainability, retrofit demand, and climate risk. Lisa Grosse, brand manager at Cedral UK, examines survey findings on refurbishment, modular construction, façade design, and the barriers to long-term sustainable housebuilding.