Under to spotlight

Lawson Group have been proud to show case our talents this month with several audits taking place at site and head office. Lawson Group ensures a site audit is carried out at least once on every project. This insures that the works are being performed to the highest standard and most importantly with the highest importance on safety.

With every notifiable asbestos project that is undertaken an external audit will be carried out with the aim to ensure all works are being carried out safely effectively and meeting all regulatory standards. Most recently an external audit at the former Richard Lander site in Truro has been conducted and passed with the result showing positive and encouraging comments.

Closer to home...

This month has given Lawson Group employees a lot to smile about. Not only have we been experiencing a large increase of successfully secured contracts. After travelling the distance to undertake the projects at the Former Richard Lander School in Truro, which is now reaching the closing stages, Lawson Demolition and Environmental operatives now have the chance to stay a little closer to home.

A new project has begun at the Station Road Business Centre in Kingswood, Bristol. The programme is set to run for 10 weeks with high level asbestos removal followed by extensive and highly controlled demolition. The Business Centre is currently empty and wasting potential space for organisations to operate within. The demolition of the designated units is to make way for new and modern office units which will give the site a working business buzz.

The building contains a significant amount of Amosite which must be removed under fully controlled and enclosed conditions post soft strip. Lawson Environmental has sent their team of highly qualified and trained asbestos operatives to complete the job. Work commence on site on the 18th November, keep an eye on the next few newsletters to follow our progress.

Celebrating Awards

As a long standing member of the NFDC Lawson Group would like to congratulate the NFDC for their success with two highly accredited awards this month.

The launch of the NFDC’s Demolition and Refurbishment Information Data Sheets (DRIDS) has been a huge success. We were delighted to hear that the DRIDS had not only been shortlisted for the Sustainability Construction and Demolition award, on the 7th November but were announced the winners. For more information please take a look at the NFDC online brochure at http://demolition-nfdc.com/page/drids.html

This was not their only success this month; the Demolition Plant Simulators launched in partnership with Volvo and Oryx was shortlisted at the KHL World Demolition Summit for Safety and Training. The simulator was featured throughout the conference and delegates had the chance to take it for a test drive. The simulator created a strong buzz within the conference gathering global attention.

Lawson Group knows that the success that the NFDC have experienced this month will continue and grow. Lawson Demolition is proud to hold NFDC membership. As a member we continue to meet the stringent criteria of NFDC assessments and site audits. Lawson Group’s Managing Director Martin Wilson has been heavily involved in supporting the NFDC for a number of years and is currently Vice President at a National level.

The Complete Package

Can anyone believe it’s almost December already? As the nights get darker early and morning lighter later the days feel shorter but there is no slowing down here at Lawson Group. With 4 new jobs on the horizon we are enjoying a busy lead up to Christmas. Lawson Groups asbestos division , Lawson Environmental, has seen a fantastic rise in projects over the last 6 months. By proudly holding an asbestos licence we are able to offer the complete package here at Lawson Group. This month Lawson Group once again saw the benefit of being able to offer both Demolition and Asbestos services within the same company. During the demolition works at one of our current sites our highly trained men, due to their experience in asbestos as well as demolition, were proactive when a material with asbestos properties was found on site. The material was kept in under controlled conditions and was sampled, tested and identified as Asbestos Insulation Board. The notifiable asbestos is one of the most harmful materials to remove from a building, but the task was undertaken in a quick and controlled manor so that programme was had only minimal alterations. If you require any further information about asbestos containing materials that you suspect you have seen please read all you need to know at http://www.hse.gov.uk/asbestos/index.htm or call Lawson Group on 01793 782000 for some free and friendly advice.

More accreditation success for Lawson Group as company passes Achillies Link Up Audit

Following an in-depth audit of the company’s processes and practices, Lawson Group received confirmation that they have passed the Link Up audit process. This brings the company a step closer to becoming fully accredited for rail and infrastructure works.

The demolition team are currently undergoing the relevant PTS training to ensure that the company is fully qualified to carry out any future rail works on behalf of our Clients.

Should you have a rail project that requires demolition, please feel free to contact us by clicking here.

Three award nominations for Lawson Group at the prestigious World Demolition Awards

Lawson Group are delighted to announce that the company has been nominated for three awards at the World Demolition Awards taking place in Amsterdam in November. 

Following the company’s nomination success in 2010, Lawson Group have beaten off competition from other demolition contractors from all over the world to win a nomination in the Training and the Environmental awards categories, as well as being selected as a contender for the prestigious Contractor of the Year.
 

The Environmental award nomination is in addition to the recent Environmental Award win for the company at the Wiltshire Business Awards, and their attainment of ISO 14001. The Training Award focuses on the company's committment to training, and health and safety with 100% of the company's workforce holding CSCS cards. Finally, the Contractor of the Year is awarded to the best demolition contractor in the industry from across the globe.
The awards, which are now in their third year are being held this Friday, 4th November at the Hotel Okura in Amsterdam. For more information on the awards, please click here.

Lawson Group recycle rail footbridge in Taunton

Lawson Group have completed the removal of a rail footbridge in Taunton, Somerset on behalf of Barratt Homes.

The works were carried out using a mobile crane, with a cherry picker then being used to fit lifting beams to the main span lifting points. A quick cut was used release the first bridge span from the second and the structure to be retained and placed on the ground away from the lifting area for deconstruction. The second span was then removed in the same way.

Following the completion of work, the rail bridge was relocated from Taunton and recycled as part of the refurbishment of the Buckfastleigh Railway in South Devon.

Lawson Group demolish mast tower at RAF Brize Norton

Lawson Group were pleased to annouce their recent contract win for the demolition of a mast tower at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.

The interesting project requires highly trained demolition operatives. Approximately 15 metres in height, and around 5 metres in circumference, the concrete tower will be deconstructed using a Caterpillar 345 with a long reach and an MP15 attachment.

Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson commented: “We are delighted to have been successful in winning this project. We are looking forward to working at RAF Brize Norton, and we hope to secure further works there in the future.

NFDC film crushing at Lawson Group site in Wolverhampton

Lawson Group were pleased to welcome a film crew from the National Federation of Demolition Contractors on to site at Craddock Street in Wolverhampton, where the demolition team were in the final stages of works following demolition of industrial buildings to make way for a new development.

The film crew came to take footage of the crushing stages of the development, showing Lawson Group’s qualified team operating the company’s state of the art Sandvik crusher to produce quality materials for re-use on site.

The video footage will be used by the NFDC as part of an information documentary on demolition history and processes.

Lawson Group win Wiltshire Business of the Year Award

Lawson Group are pleased to announce that the company has won not one but two awards at this year’s Wiltshire Business Awards 2011, as well as being awarded 1st and 2nd runners up in two other categories. Lawson Group beat more than 100 other firms from a variety of different sectors to take the Environmental and Wiltshire Business of the Year – Outstanding Excellence Awards. The company were also runners up in the categories for Innovation and Growth, and Staff and Customer Care.

Lawson Group were delighted to win the Environmental Award, beating stiff competition including a waste recycling centre for the company’s impressive efforts to minimise the environmental impact of demolition works. Lawson Group’s detailed Site Waste Management Plans, dedication to recycling, low emissions machinery and advanced site monitoring were cited by the judges as a great example of environmentally considerate working practices.

Lawson Group were also triumphant in the most prestigious category of the night; the Wiltshire Business of the Year - Outstanding Excellence Award. The award was given for the best overall performance of a company, with judges taking into consideration the way that Lawson Group had grown; expanding fleet, staff and service offerings to ensure the company’s ongoing success.

Martin Wilson, founder and Director of Lawson Group said “It is a huge honour to receive these awards, in particular the Wiltshire Business of the Year Award for Outstanding Excellence. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the team, from those working on site to those involved in the awards process. We are very proud of the company and our successes over the past 20 years and are delighted to receive not one but two fantastic awards”.

For more coverage of the Wiltshire Business Awards 2011, please click here.

LAWSON GROUP CELEBRATE 20TH YEAR IN BUSINESS

On the company’s 20th anniversary, Lawson Group would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our loyal Clients, associates and all those who have supported us to help us grow to where we are today.

Lawson Group of Companies are celebrating, as the 12th April 2011 marks 20 years since the company began as Lawson Demolition and Crushing Ltd in 1991. Originally a small local demolition, crushing and haulage contractor primarily serving Swindon and the South West of England, and with a staff of just three including the Managing Director, the company began trading.

Today, Lawson Group comprises of Lawson Demolition carrying out demolition, dismantling and recycling works, and Lawson Environmental carrying out asbestos removal works. A steady growth that has accelerated over the past three years has seen the company go from strength to strength, now employing up to 40+ site staff, and a Head Office based Management Team of professionals.


The company has continued to steadily expand over the past 20 years; becoming members of the NFDC, building an impressive fleet of state of the art Caterpillar plant, and growing the company’s industry standing from a small local contractor to a major national company. Even over the past year, when times have been hard for many in the construction industry Lawson Group have stepped up training and the company’s business development and marketing; resulting in a significantly increased level of new business as well as a highly trained and qualified workforce.
We look forward to continuing to strive to provide the best possible service to our Clients, and look forward to celebrating another 20 years with you all.

Lawson Group add to extensive fleet of plant with the purchase of new Caterpillar machinery

Lawson Group have continued to expand in 2011, this time with their fleet of machinery as a new machine was acquired from Finning Caterpillar.

The company purchased a Caterpillar 336DL excavator which is currently being utilized on the Tesco site in Bedworth where Lawson Group are undertaking major demolition works including taking down a large Tesco store, petrol station, shops and houses. The new machine is just another part of the company’s continual growth, allowing Lawson Group to take on even more work up and down the country, providing Clients with an even higher quality of equipment available for demolition works.

Finning Caterpillar recently visited the site in Bedworth to carry out a photo and film shoot of the new equipment being used on the site.

Darren Bodio, Finning account manager said: “Lawson Group is a company that is really benefiting from the use of Caterpillar equipment, as they have embraced the advantages of core plant being from one supplier. They also know that the back up from Finning for major works is always there".

Lawson Group plan to continue to expand their fleet as the company continues to grow in 2011.

Lawson Environmental delighted to be granted three year license renewal by HSE

Lawson Group are pleased to confirm that they have been awarded a three year renewal of Lawson Environmental’s asbestos removal licence. Lawson Environmental, who are a member of ARCA (the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association) have been successfully carrying out asbestos removal across the UK for a number of years now.


The renewal of the license by the HSE for three years is a mark of the hard work and high standards of all involved in the management and operations of Lawson Environmental.

Lawson Group celebrate third ISO certification attainment

Lawson Group were proud this month to have been awarded their third ISO certification of 2011. This time, the ISO 18001, which is awarded for excellence in health and safety procedures.

With high standards of health and safety being paramount in the construction and in particular demolition industry, Lawson Group were delighted to have been awarded the prestigious ISO 18001 certification.


The certificate, which was presented to Lawson Group on the 7th February by a representative from ISO assessor CQS (Certified Quality Systems) makes a welcome addition to the already impressive number of accreditations held by the company.

New Year kicks off with new project in Bedworth for Lawson Grop

Lawson Group were delighted to start the new year by taking on a complex and large scale project on behalf of Discovery Properties in Bedworth in Warwickshire.

The works, which are part of the redevelopment of the Tesco store, began in January with a number of peripheral properties being demolished initially. Neighbouring houses, a former car repairs workshop, as well a pub and a pet shop are being demolished over the next few weeks. Follwing this, Lawson Group's demolition team will strip out the old Tesco store before bringing in a fleet of demolition machinery to take the main structure down.

With the majority of the site still in use by the general public - not to mention the neigbouring roads and pathways - the demolition team have had to face the challenge of working within close proximity to the general public. The demolition of the store, which is located in a busy, central part of Bedworth, will require an exceptional level of health and safety planning, with careful attention to detail from Lawson Group's highly skilled and trained Project Manger and Demolition Operatives.

Martin Wilson, Director of Lawson Group commented: “We are extremely pleased to be working with Discovery Properties on this extensive demolition project. The scope of work required on such a varied and large site will be challenging, but we are confident that our team of qualified operatives will be able to exceed our Clients’ expectations in the work carried out. We look forward to completing this great project”.

Lawson Group set the standard for 2011 with new ISO Accreditation

Leading demolition contractors Lawson Group spent the first day back in the office in 2011 celebrating the attainment of not one, but two new ISO certifications. The certifications were presented to Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson by Allan Baskerville of assessors Certified Quality Systems.

Lawson Group had undergone an in-depth assessment of the company’s quality management systems in order to attain ISO 9001:2008; demonstrating to our Clients that the company is working to the highest possible management standards.

Lawson Group were also certified for ISO 14001:2004, which assesses the company’s environmental management standards. The constant improvement of the company’s environmental performance is a key part of the company’s strategy for the future.

Director of Lawson Group Martin Wilson commented: “We are delighted to have been awarded not one but two ISO certifications today; the attainment of which we feel is an extremely positive step in the right direction for

Lawson Group. We work incredibly hard to ensure that our management and environmental processes are not just of a high standard, but are constantly assessed and evaluated to ensure that we are always exceeding the expectations of our Clients”.

Asbestos Supervisor opportunity within the Lawson Group team

Lawson Group are today delighted to announce that a vacancy has arisen within the company to add a new Asbestos Supervisor to our team.

The successful candidate will have a vital role within the company, overseeing current contracts.

The ideal candidate will have multi sector experience and be able to undertake all supervisory duties including completing relevant paperwork accurately. Asbestos Supervisor experience is essential, Demolition experience would be beneficial.
Possession of a current Supervisor’s ticket would be required along with a full driving licence and willingness to work UK wide.

An immediate start would be available for the candidate selected.

For more information, or to apply for the role Please forward CV to Emma Fletcher by emailing emma.fletcher@lawsongroupltd.co.uk.

Lawson Group through to finals of World Demolition Awards

Nationwide demolition and asbestos removal specialists Lawson Group Ltd were delighted to announce that the company’s work in Newport, Gwent was short listed in the category of ‘Contract of the Year’ at this year’s World Demolition Awards 2010.

Lawson Group reached the short list of the World Demolition Awards with a submission detailng the demolition works carried out by the company at the former Orb Steelworks in Newport.

This large scale industrial demolition was undertaken on the historical site for valued Client Taylor Wimpey to make way for a new housing development. The demolition works at the site were of interest not only in terms of the history of the Steel Works and its significance to South Wales but also in sheer size and the complex demolition and asbestos removal requirements.

Director and founder of Lawson Group Martin Wilson commented: “We are absolutely delighted that our work has been recognised alongside some of the biggest and best contracts in the world. We take a huge amount of pride in our work and strive to achieve the highest possible industry standards in all that we do for our Clients. The project that we carried out for Taylor Wimpey in Newport was one of our largest in 2009/2010, where we were not only able to bring employment to the local area, but also help to improve it by creating space for new housing. We have worked on a variety of projects in and around South Wales, including the current demolition works we are carrying out at the former Billybanks Estate in Penarth.”

Lawson Group were one of only three UK companies to be commended in this category, which comprised of only six selected projects from around the world.

Lawson Group work alongside Welsh Fire and Rescue Service to offer on-site training for team

Lawson Group have today released images of the Welsh Fire and Rescue Service carrying out training at the former Billybanks Estate in Penarth, where Lawson Group have been carrying out demolition works.

The images were taken when the Urban Search and Rescue Team undertook training on the site back in June this year, and show how team members are trained to rescue victims from a real life situation. The Urban Search and Rescue team typically deal with disasters such as collapsing buildings etc much like those that were involved with the recent rescue efforts from the devastation of natural disasters such as Haiti. This type of on-site training is invaluable to the Urban Search and Rescue Team to prepare their staff for the dangers that they could be up against in a real rescue.

Mac Stephens, Trainer for the Welsh Search and Rescue said: “The team pictured is the Welsh USAR Team. Lawson Group and Crest Nicholson kindly gave permission for the team to operate a simulated collapse requiring Search and Rescue. The pictures show Technical Search and then Technical Rescue procedures taking place at Penarth Heights, Nr Cardiff, prior to the Lawson Group carrying out demolition of the site. The Welsh USAR Team would like to thank both the Lawson Group and Crest Nicholson for their assistance and collaboration in offering a “Live Site”, we hope to build on this experience and work together on other projects”.

Martin Wilson, Director of Lawson Group commented: “We were pleased to have been able to do our bit to help the Welsh Fire and Rescue Team with their training by allowing them to carry out their training say on site. They do a wonderful job, and to be involved in helping with their training was a real honour for us”.

Lawson Group in new project win at Rainham for VolkerFitzpatrick

Lawson Group are pleased to announce another project win with VolkerFitzpatrick, this time for the strip out of Rainham Warehouse in Rainham, Essex.

The site, which is situated on an industrial estate lying to the South of Rainham centre, will require careful planning and health, safety and environmental consideration due to high voltage above ground electricity cables located approximately 9m high directly above the warehouse.
The project, which began this week is the latest project which Lawson Group have undertaken for VolkerFitzpatrick.

Director Martin Wilson commented: “We are very pleased to continue to work with VolkerFitzpatrick, and are looking forward to working with them on this challenging and exciting new project”.

Lawson Group grow their already impressive fleet of plant

Lawson Group are celebrating the purchase of not one but four brand new excavators from world leading plant manufacturer, Caterpillar. The machines, which were purchased through Finning UK, make great additions to Lawson Group’s ever expanding fleet of plant.

The excavators, a 336DL HSR and three 323DL PROs were set straight to work on Lawson Group’s various sites up and down the country. One of the first sites to benefit from the new equipment was at the Billybanks Estate in Penarth, where Finning UK attended the arrival and first use of the machinery for their Lastability website.

Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson explains: “We are delighted to announce the purchase of four new state of the art machines from Caterpillar, which we have purchased to help us manage the expanding number of sites we are working on currently. At Lawson Group it has always been part of our ethos to own our own plant, and to own the best plant there is in order to promise our Clients the best possible service. As our fleet continues to grow, so does what we are able to do for our Clients and that is our priority”.

For more information on the plant, please click here.

Lawson Environmental set to expand asbestos removal team

Lawson Environmental are hoping to add yet another asbestos removal operative to their ever expanding team, as Sherif Kuci undertakes training to qualify him to carry out the removal of dangerous asbestos services.

He is due to complete his in-depth three day New Operative Asbestos Removal Course with ARCA at the end of this week, adding to his demolition qualifications already gained whilst working as an operative for Lawson Demolition.

On successful completion of the qualification, he will then go on to join the team carrying out asbestos removal at the Billybanks Estate site in Penarth.

Lawson Group reach new Heights with development in Penarth

Lawson Group were this month heading back to Wales for the first phase of works at Penarth Heights in the Vale of Glamorgan. Lawson Group have been working with the Uk's Premier House Builder Crest Nicholson in a much-needed redevelopment of the near-derelict Billybanks estate which has been empty for over nine years.

Prior to the demolition works commencing, asbestos had to be safely and carefully removed from some parts of the site by Lawson Group's trained and qualified asbestos removal operatives. Following the completion of the asbestos removal, the demolition team will knock down the remaining structures over the next few months, to make way for the 377 new houses and apartments planned by Crest Nicholson.

The development will be welcomed by local people, who recently voted the estate the ugliest unique eyesore in Wales! The site was also voted the eighth worst eyesore in Britain, with some twenty seven per cent of people in Cardiff voting for the run-down estate in a magazine survey.

Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson commented: "We are delighted to be working once again with Crest Nicholson, and even more importantly to be helping to rid Wales of it's number one eyesore! We are due to be working on the demolition of the site for the next few months, with works due to continue into August. The site will then be cleared for redevelopment to bring some great new housing and facilities to the area".

Onwards and upwards as Lawson Group team move on up to Sheffield for latest project

Lawson Group have started work on yet another site across the UK, this time in Sheffield on behalf of Client Acorn Properties.

The project, which includes a large amount of soft stripping, and demolition which requires retention of a number of historial features has just commenced in the Kelham Island area of Sheffield.

While work has already been done to start stripping the premises, which include a former garage and a builder's yard, the project is due to continue for a couple of weeks. The site has been disused for so many years that the Royal Mail no longer list the postcode; therefore the demolition of the site will no doubt be a welcome development to the local area.

Martin Wilson, Director at Lawson Group Ltd said: "We are delighted to have been selected by Acorn Properties to carry out demolition works on the site in Kelham Island. It is a challenging project, but we are looking forward to working on it, and looking forward to once again working with Acorn Properties".

Lawson Group give charity raffle winner chance to demolish their former Headmaster’s office

Lawson Group were delighted to have been involved in a charity raffle held by St. John's School in Marlborough, where Lawson Group are currently on site demolishing the old school campus.

The raffle prize was offered as the top prize by the UK's premier house builders Crest Nicholson, who own the site, and Lawson Group, and was won by former pupil Beth Pope. Following a health and safety induction from Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson, Beth was shown how to use one of the large Caterpillar machines, and assisted by one of Lawson Group's competent and qualified machine operators as she ripped the roof off the former Headmaster's office.

As well as local press, Crest Nicholson's Marketing Manager Mandy Toogood also attended to present Beth with a bottle of champagne and a brick from the demolition as a souvenir.

Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson, who arranged the day along with with the Lawson Group Marketing Team commented: "We are delighted to once again be working with Crest Nicholson, and were more than happy to organise the raffle prize for the lucky winner. We very much hope that Beth enjoyed her experience, and are looking forward to continuing with the demolition at this site to make way for this fantastic new development".

Lawson Group complete long term works in Newport

This week saw Lawson Group’s long term works at the former Orb Steelworks come to an end, as the site is prepared for the construction of new homes by Taylor Wimpey South Wales.

The site has now been completely cleared, decontaminated and excavated in order for Taylor Wimpey to move forward to the next phase of the housing development, including the creation of roads using the crushed materials from the demolition. Lawson Group crushed resultant concrete materials from the demolition to specification to be reused within the development.

Lawson Group Director Martin Wilson said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Taylor Wimpey on this project, and are delighted to have completed the project to the satisfaction of our Client. We wish Taylor Wimpey every success with the new development, and look forward to working with them again in the future”.

Arwyn Evans, Production Manager at Taylor Wimpey commented: “We are again very satisfied with Lawson Demolition’s performance, and in particular their high level of competence in managing critical Health and Safety and Environmental issues, including asbestos removal, has mitigated significant risks on this complex industrial demolition contract”

Lawson Group boost business with new BHS project win

Lawson Group are pleased to announce that they have been chosen to undertake the demolition phase of the former British Home Stores shop as part of a key redevelopment at the Parade Shopping Centre in Swindon Town Centre.

The BHS site, which is located on Bridge Street in Swindon has a ground floor measurement of approximately 65 metres by 30 metres in size and consists of two floors of retail space, plus an additional floor of storage and office space. The building also currently contains asbestos, which will be removed by Lawson Environmental Ltd according to strict HSE regulatory guidelines as part of the demolition process.

The demolition will take place in two phases. The first will be to secure the site, remove the asbestos according to regulatory requirements, a soft strip of the building’s current fixtures and fittings, demolition of the structure and removal of the building foundations. The second phase will be to remove the adjacent car park hard standing to the rear of the property.

Lawson Group Managing Director Martin Wilson commented: “We are delighted to have been selected to undertake the demolition works at the BHS store in Swindon. As a national company, we undertake a number of projects up and down the country but it is nonetheless always great to be involved in a local project that is part of such a positive development for Swindon. We are very much looking forward to working with John Sisk & Son on the project”.

Area Manager for John Sisk & Son Andy McGoldrick said: “Lawson Group have worked extremely hard to produce a professional solution to allow the demolition of this building in the heart of the live Parade Shopping Centre. Now BHS have relocated, we are looking forward to commencing this key redevelopment for Swindon with Lawson Group.”

Lawson Group get things moving down at Stratford Bus Depot

As many companies get ready to slow down for Christmas, Lawson Group Ltd are still hard at work at Stratford Bus Station in East London. The complex demolition project is being carried on behalf of top construction company VolkerFitzpatrick, who are carrying out extensive refurbishments to the station’s offices and workshops.

The highly specialist demolition works have been taking place while the bus station is still in operation, meaning a careful and meticulous plan of works had to be put into place by Lawson Demolition to incorporate traffic management on site as well as public safety.

The demolition was mainly soft strip, including the removal of exterior windows and interior fixtures and fittings, with the demolition cut line and roof separation being carried out by hand. Following this the ground floor slab and foundations were broken out by a 360° excavator to allow access for construction of the new offices and workshops.

Lawson Group Ltd Managing Director Martin Wilson commented “We are delighted to once again be working with VolkerFitzpatrick on another interesting and challenging project. We are confident that despite the complex nature of working within a live bus depot, Lawson Group’s past experience and success in similar urban demolition sites will ensure that the project is finished to the highest possible standard”.

Lawson Group support CECE crackdown on illegal equipment in Europe

Lawson Group Ltd are backing new efforts by the CECE (Committee for European Construction Equipment) to address the steady flow of non-conformant equipment (NCE) that continues to filter through into the European market through 3rd parties and auctions. As outlined by a recent article in Demolition and Recycling International Magazine, NCE, which is often manufactured by leading manufacturers for use in non-EU countries where legislation is not so stringent, poses a wide risk throughout many areas of the industry. NCE threatens legitimate manufacturers’ reputations, damages the environment and can even put the lives of workers at risk by not conforming to the necessary EU standards.

While NCE can often come onto the market at a ‘cheaper’ price than legitimate machinery, we are being warned not to be fooled by what can seem like a bargain. The price of purchasing NCE could be much higher than you think; workers can be exposed to illegal levels of noise, vibration and emissions, buyers will lose their security with their insurance company if the machine is found to be illegal, and you could find yourself in a seriously complicated legal situation should an accident occur.

The NCE is focusing on educating key groups such as contractors, dealers, and the banking and insurance community in the hope that by raising awareness of the safety and liability issues around NCE, it can be combated. Martin Wilson, Managing Director at Lawson Group Ltd commented “At Lawson Group, we are focused on ensuring any new equipment purchased is fully compliant and of exceptional environmental, health and safety standards. We welcome the push from the CECE to promote vigilance within the industry and hope that they are able to crack down on the influx of NCE in Europe”.

To download the article in the full issue of Demolition and Recycling International, click here

Lawson Group crush the credit crunch with new Sandvik Qj330 Jaw

Leading demolition company Lawson Group Ltd have been feeling the crush rather than the crunch, as they have expanded their already impressive range of plant with the purchase of a state of the art Sandvik Qj330 Jaw Crusher. The new machine is the latest addition to Lawson Group’s rapidly expanding fleet of machinery, as the company look to move forward in the current climate.

The Sandvik Qj330 was acquired by Lawson Group Ltd following a deal secured at the quarry demonstration at this year’s NFDC Annual Convention in Killarney. The purchase comes as Lawson Group continues to expand the business, enabling the company to increase and improve the levels of recycling from their demolition sites across the country.

As Lawson Group Managing Director Martin Wilson explains: “We are delighted with the purchase of Sandvik’s Qj330 crusher. By adding a high quality piece of equipment such as this to our fleet, we believe we are continuing to expand and move in the right direction as a Group. We have been impressed with both the performance of the machine and the service from Sandvik, and are looking forward to utilizing the crusher as part of our ongoing operations around the country”.

Alan Matchett, Demolition and Recycling Segment Manager for Sandvik in the UK and Ireland said: “As a new Client to Sandvik, we welcome Lawson Group Ltd on board, and are looking forward to a long and successful relationship”.

For more information on Lawson Group Ltd, please click here. For more information on Sandvik and their range of products please click here.

Lawson Group continue to expand capabilities with purchase of Caterpillar H160D S Hammer

With the need to expand business ever more prevalent in the current economic climate, Lawson Group Ltd have increased their works capacity even further with the purchase of a new Caterpillar H160D S hydraulic hammer. The impressive piece of equipment, supplied by Finning Caterpillar UK was debuted at the former Orb Steelworks site in Newport, where Lawson Group is nearing completion of work on the thirty hectare site.

The H160D S Hammer will be a welcome addition to the already extensive range of plant and work tools owned by Lawson Group Ltd, and will be fully utilized as the company continues to take on works up and down the country. With a weight of nearly 3 tonnes, the heavy duty H160D S allows Lawson Group’s demolition operatives to work to an even larger and more efficient capacity.

Managing Director of Lawson Group Martin Wilson explains: “We are delighted with our latest purchase from Finning Caterpillar UK, the H160D S hammer. Despite the current climate, we endeavour to keep improving and extending our capabilities by investing in new equipment, ensuring that we are ahead of the game once the market begins to pick up”.

For more information on the specifications of the Caterpillar H160D S Hammer, please click here. For more information on Lawson Group Ltd, please click here.

Lawson Group kick off multi-million pound project in Luton

Lawson Group Ltd today announced that they have been selected by leading construction company Volker Fitzpatrick to carry out demolition works at the former Community Enterprise and Resource Centre (CERC) at The Moakes, Marsh Farm in Luton. The demolition signals the start of a brand new redevelopment of the site as part of what is known locally as the Marsh Farm Masterplan, making way for a 60,000 square foot building in its place.

The demolition work, which is due to begin within the next few weeks will see the steel framed factory building of the CERC knocked down, whilst the neighbouring two storey office block and various other structures will remain.

Martin Wilson, Chairman of Lawson Group Ltd comments “We are delighted to have been chosen by Volker Fitzpatrick to be a part of this project. The demolition is just the beginning of what is set to be a great addition to the Luton area. Wherever we work in the country, we are always committed to causing as little disruption as is possible with demolition; that is why despite the complexity of the project, we are confident that we will complete it to a high standard to make way for this exciting new development.

Lawson Group welcomes new apprentice

Lawson Group Ltd are delighted to welcome the latest addition to their growing team, new apprentice David Munday.

David has been accepted into the National Construction College at Bircham Newton, and will be starting his studies there whilst also learning the ropes on site as part of his Demolition Plant Operative Apprenticeship.

Claire Wilson, HR Manager for Lawson Group Ltd commented: "We would like to welcome our new apprentice, David Munday to Lawson Group Ltd. We are looking forward to having him on the team on site, and wish him every success with his studies too".

For more information on apprenticeships at the National Construction College, please click here.

Lawson Group supports call to combat youth unemployment in Swindon

With towns and cities all over the country feeling the effects of the recession, Swindon has featured in a recent series on Recession Britain in The Daily Telegraph’s Saturday magazine. The article, which appeared on Saturday 25th July focused on youth unemployment, a big local issue which Lawson Group is committed to supporting.

According to figures from the Office of National Statistics in March, the number of people on Job Seekers Allowance in Swindon had risen from 2,000 (1.7%) to 6,300 (5.3%) over the space of a year. This was the highest overall increase in the country, and the first time Swindon, which in 2007 boasted the biggest growth in new businesses in the UK, has passed the national average of 5.2%.

Part of the investigation featured students from Swindon College, who were voicing their own concerns about finding employment after studying vocational courses. Paddy Bradley, Director of Education for Swindon, noted “In an earlier age, apprenticeships would have provided both employment opportunities and skills training for non-academic school leavers”. But as one of the vocational teachers at Swindon College quizzed for the article explained "Very few companies now take on apprentices, because they don’t want the responsibility. Everybody wants trained and qualified people, but they don’t want to pay for their training”.

Claire Wilson, HR Manager at Lawson Group believes that in order to tackle the problem of youth unemployment in Swindon, companies have to look further than the short term. As she explains “At Lawson Group, we believe that by taking on apprentices and encouraging staff to train as part of their jobs we are not only helping local young people further their careers; we are also adding to the value of the business by having staff that are working for us at the same time as expanding their own knowledge and learning for the future”.

As well as developing an apprentice program to help local youngsters, Lawson Group are also keen supporters of the regeneration project featured in the article which, it is hoped in turn will help to bring more opportunities to the local area. As Peter James, the Chief Executive of the New Swindon Company explains “Regeneration is vital to Swindon, to keep existing companies in town and encourage new ones to come in. Because they are the companies that will be employing Swindon’s young”.

Director of Lawson Group Martin Wilson strongly agrees. As a local resident as well as businessman, he commented “As a company, we are committed not just to growing our own business, but helping to grow our local community. We are pleased to be able to offer apprenticeships, as well as many other employment and training opportunities and we hope that other business will consider doing the same. Swindon has a lot to offer and by encouraging and helping young people to get on their feet, and by bringing new opportunities into the town through regeneration we are ensuring it continues to be a great place to live in the future”.

To read the full article featured in Saturday 25th July’s Telegraph magazine, please click here.

For more information on opportunities at Lawson Group, please click here.

Lawson Group apprentice nominated for top award from Construction Skills

Lawson Group is delighted to announce that employee Andrew Hinton has been nominated for a top award at this year’s Construction Skills awards. Andrew, who has been with Lawson Demolition for 7 months, has received the nomination for the work he has done as part of his apprenticeship at the National Construction College.

The National Construction College, who are the training division of Construction Skills, are holding their Presentation Awards Ceremony on Thursday 23rd July, which Andrew will be attending along with Company Director Martin Wilson, and HR Manager Claire Wilson.

Claire Wilson commented: “We would like to say well done to Andrew for his hard work throughout his apprenticeship, and wish him the best of luck with winning his award”.
To find out more about the Construction Skills Awards, click here.

Lawson Group comes top of the class to win Cambridge college demolition contract

Following a competitive tender process, Lawson Demolition Ltd is delighted to have been awarded the contract for demolition works at the
Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge.

The project, which is being coordinated by leading construction firm Volker Fitzpatrick will see a soft strip and mechanical deconstruction of the University’s Rackham Building, situated on Broad Street in central Cambridge. The Rackham Building, which was constructed in 1972, is one of the many that make up the campus, including the Bryant Building, which is attached to it. Due to the nature of the site the project requires a high degree of precision and accuracy, including hand separation works to form a demolition cut line between the two buildings.

Martin Wilson, Director of Lawson Group commented: “Lawson Demolition is delighted to be working for the first time with Volker Fitzpatrick on this project. Thanks to the considerable amount of time and effort invested by our Contracts Management Team, we were able to provide the Client with a comprehensive and detailed plan of works, which we are confident we will see through to a high standard”.

For more information on this project, or any of our previous projects please click here.

Demolition works at the Maple Building in Swindon completed

Following an extensive and complex programme, demolition works have now been completed by Lawson Demolition at the Maple Building in Kembrey Park, Swindon. The site consisted of a large open plan office building, on two levels.

The project, which was undertaken by Lawson Group on behalf of Crown Interiors, saw the entire building undergoing a major soft strip. This included removal of partition walls, toilets, offices, kitchens, floor coverings including computer flooring and fixings, as well as false ceilings and fixings, warehouse inner doors and partition walls, blinds, lifts and stairs inside the building. On the outside, work was also carried out to remove air conditioning units, railings and hand rails.

The Maple Building, located at the exit of the Great Western Way dual carriageway in Swindon is based at the entrance to Kembrey Park along with the Travelodge, Brewers Fayre restaurant and New Generation Health and Fitness Club. The refurbished building is due to be let as business premises following completion of the refit by Crown Interiors, bringing more new business to the already popular Swindon area.

Lawson Demolition attend JCB’s Demolition Day for NFDC Members

Lawson Demolition were delighted to be invited to an exclusive Demolition Day, hosted by one of the world’s top manufacturers of construction equipment, JCB. The event, which took place on the 4th June at JCB’s World Head Quarters in Staffordshire, provided members of the NFDC with a unique opportunity to discover more about JCB, its plant and its plans for the future.

The all-day event gave members the chance to meet and to hear from some of the most interesting and influential names from within the industry; such as Keith Berryman, Director of Land and Property from Cross Rail, who was able to talk about their current projects, through to Anthony Bamford, Chairman of JCB. Members were then treated to an exceptionally enjoyable evening at Uttoxeter Races, including excellent hospitality all courtesty of JCB.

Martin Wilson, Director of Lawson Group and Chairman of the NFDC London and Southern Counties Region attended the event on behalf of Lawson Demolition. He commented: “This really was an outstanding event by JCB. We were delighted to be able to visit JCB World Head Quarters, and equally delighted to meet Sir Anthony Bamford and Rob Holden. We would also like to thank JCB for what was an outstanding evening at Uttoxeter Races, which was enjoyed by all”.

For more information on JCB, click here.

Lawson Group support Daily Mirror’s ‘Asbestos Timebomb’ campaign

Lawson Group is supporting the Daily Mirror’s ‘Asbestos Timebomb’ campaign, which has been launched by the national newspaper in order to highlight the deadly impact of asbestos related illnesses. The Mirror are calling for a £10 million pound national centre for asbestos diseases as part of their campaign.

Deaths from asbestos related diseases could reach at least 200,000, and the epidemic is not due to peak until 2025 – 10 years longer than feared. The UK has the highest mesothelioma rate in the world. While it is mostly men who are affected, it is the fastest growing cancer among women.

In the wake of this and other recent articles highlighting that problem could continue due to asbestos still being present in many schools and other public buildings, Lawson Group have launched Lawson Environmental, a branch of the group dedicated to safe and effective asbestos removal. Following receipt of HSE licence accreditation, Lawson Environmental will be able to carry out all aspects of assessment and removal of asbestos.

Martin Wilson, Director of Lawson Group Ltd explains “Many people think of asbestos as a problem of the past; however there are still many public buildings such as schools which contain a worrying level of asbestos. The NASUWT (National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers) are campaigning to have all asbestos removed from schools by 2012, and we welcome this initiative. One of the reasons we have launched Lawson Environmental is a commitment to providing highly skilled and trained people that can help to combat this problem”.

For more information on the Daily Mirror’s ‘Asbestos Timebomb’ campaign, click here.

Lawson Demolition win contract for the Orb Steelworks in Newport

Lawson Demolition Ltd has today announced that they have been chosen to undertake a demolition project at the site of the Orb Steelworks, off Corporation Road in Newport. The old steelworks, which was once a central part of Newport’s industry, is due to be given a new lease of life as part of a development by Taylor Wimpey South Wales; the first stage of which is the demolition of the current buildings, due to commence at the end of June 2009. The demolition, which is due to continue through to October 2009, is the initial part of the plans by Taylor Wimpey to redevelop the site.

The site itself, which is located on Corporation Road in Newport, covers an area of thirty hectares; however it is specifically the North Eastern section of the site which is due for redevelopment. The project will see several of the current buildings being demolished, including the training centre, the gym, the old gate office, several blocks of offices, the conference and medical centres, as well as an old Air Raid shelter situated on the site.

Martin Wilson, Director of Lawson Group Ltd, commented: “We are delighted to have been selected to undertake the demolition work on this new development. It is a considerably complex project, and our team have already put an enormous amount of time into the preparation and planning, especially with regards to health and safety. We are looking forward to beginning work on the site within the next few weeks”.

Asbestos Licence

Lawson Environmental Ltd have been licensed by the Health & Safety Executive to undertake works involving asbestos containing materials.

Licence Number: 2090905351

Lawson Demolition insists on the best quick hitch advice

Lawson Demolition is working closely with quick hitch manufacturer, Finning UK, to ensure all their plant operators and fitters adhere to Finning's own safety recommendations.

Since 1st October 2008, manufacturers of many quick hitch attachments have found that their products no longer meet design and safety standards. Investigation into a series of fatal accidents revealed that of the quick hitch designs (manual, automatic and semi-automatic) the semi-automatic was responsible for most accidents. This has prompted a ban on the import of semi-automatic quick hitches into the UK, although they will still be available second hand or for hire.

Lawson Demolition believes in rigorous training for its operators and is pleased to have the opportunity to work with Finning UK. Finning has developed its own assessment and certification, covering familiarisation with and awareness of all aspects of quick hitch use and pre-useage.

Martin Wilson, MD of Lawson Demolition, welcomes HSE's review and the implementation of the new legislation: 'Safety on site is paramount. Greater plant automation means less risk and less chance of human error. Our plant operatives already have excellent quick hitch safety awareness, but working to a manufacturer's own safety guidelines has helped cement that awareness even further.'

http://safety.cat.com/cda/components/fullArticle?m=133361&x=7&id=495926

Viewpoint June 2008 - New rates on vacant buildings

The introduction of new rates on vacant buildings is causing owners to rethink and in many cases, fast forward their development plans.

Previously, empty commercial spaces were given 100% relief from business rates for the first three months and 50% relief thereafter. Since the introduction of the new rules on 1st April this year, there is now no relief after six months. And industrial premises such as factories, which formerly attracted ongoing 100% relief, will are now liable to rates after six months.

The rules are aimed to increase the use of available properties and net an extra £1 billion per year for the Treasury. But this has disappointed many business groups. It will mean much higher charges for the owners of unoccupied buildings. What was previously a long-term investment or quietly decaying asset, is now a financial burden for developers and landlords who can expect significant cost increases for not using vacant commercial buildings.

Martin Wilson, Managing Director of Lawson Group says,‘these rates are going to impact significantly on anyone leasing or owning an empty building. Few developers are going to let property stand empty.’

So do new rates offer new opportunities for the demolition industry?

Martin Wilson thinks so. ‘In many cases it will not be commercially viable to maintain the building. Owners don’t want an expensive white elephant on their hands.

Many of buildings are simply ‘on hold’ until someone decides what to do with them. Old, unlisted buildings are invariably demolished to make way for new developments. The introduction of rates will simply spur owners to speed up the process.’

Heavy rates are not the only incentive. Empty buildings quickly become targets for squatters, intruders and vandals. Strict health and safety legislation can be a headache to enforce and often require costly security measures.

Martin Wilson says: ‘The new rates are forcing owners to focus and make decisions. This could mean early demolition of a site, or even demolition as a more profitable alternative to maintaining a building. A clear, level site is going to be of more interest to a developer than an empty building. From the owner’s point of view, he does not have to worry about building rates or security costs; security is far less of an issue on levelled land. Overall the site owner will have gained a more profitable asset and offloaded the burden of a heavily-taxed, derelict building.