News in Brief: February 2009

After a number of years of lobbying by the BCSA and its colleagues in the Specialist Engineering Contractors’ Group, changes to the ‘Construction Act’ were announced in the Queen’s Speech last Decem- ber. The changes, contained in Part 8 of the Local Democracy, Economic Development & Con- struction Bill, were introduced into the House of Lords on 4 December. Lord O’Neill has laid some amendments to part 8 of the Bill to strengthen the ad- judication provisions and sim- plify the payment provisions.

Lindapter has launched the Type LS, a premium self- adjusting clamping system manufactured from high-grade stainless steel, designed for use in harsh environments. Dubbed the Claw, due to the aggressive curved and pointed shape, the clamp is suitable for various flange thicknesses and slopes up to 10 degrees.

CSC has been appointed as an authorised Autodesk AEC reseller for the supply of Au- todesk Revit Structure, together with associated training and support services, within the UK and Republic of Ireland. Both companies are firmly commit- ted to Revit Structure as they say it represents the future of BIM (Building Information Modelling) for structural engi- neers.

The steel framed headquarters building of contracting firm Fit- zpatrick, erected by Hambleton Steel, won its fourth sustainability award, Building Magazine’s ‘Sustainable Building of the Year (Large Project)’ for 2008. Use of environmental features has helped to reduce the building’s carbon footprint by around 70% and led to the award of a BREEAM ‘Excel- lent’ rating.