Technology
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Polypipe has begun automating more of its Aylesford manufacturing operation. New robotics, moulding, and extrusion investment is being used to raise output, improve inspection, and strengthen domestic supply capacity without increasing headcount at the Kent site.
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HARD2SCALE has opened its first 2026 accelerator call for construction. The EU-backed programme targets near-market start-ups and SMEs developing deployable low-carbon solutions for hard-to-abate sectors.
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JCT has published a revised Contracts Discovery module for 2026. The updated teaching resource aligns with the JCT 2024 contract suite, adding new content on procurement routes, contract setup, and key obligations across delivery.
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US tech giants agree to fund datacentre power infrastructure upgrades. The pledge links new data-centre capacity to new generation and grid works, aiming to prevent household tariffs absorbing network reinforcement costs.
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Environment Agency will deploy 33-strong drone squad against waste crime. The unit will use aerial surveillance, with some drones upgraded for Lidar laser mapping, alongside a new screening tool cross-checking lorry operator licence applications against waste permits to flag suspect operators early.
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Finning Power Rental has added Cat battery storage to hire. The company’s first BESS units are designed for temporary and hybrid site power, pairing with EU Stage V diesel generator sets to cut fuel use, noise, and idling, with remote monitoring built into the system.
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Zutec has released Building AI inside its document platform suite. The tool is embedded within Building Document Management software and is designed to structure data, surface answers from validated records, and support Building Safety Act compliance workflows.
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London contractors are trialling AI as competition tightens, AECOM reports. AECOM’s London Main Contractor Survey 2026 points to higher-than-average inflation expectations and elevated tender activity, with contractors using AI in tendering and estimating while managing labour constraints and risk exposure.
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Develon will debut new excavators at CONEXPO-CON/AGG this March show. The manufacturer says the next-generation range will bring advanced safety features, simplified electronic controls, and enhanced visibility tools, as OEMs keep pushing productivity gains and operator assistance into mainstream earthmoving fleets.