Yorkshire firm boosts production with major investment in digital printing

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Yorkshire firm boosts production with major investment in digital printing

Industrial Textiles and Plastics (ITP) Ltd, a Yorkshire-based manufacturer specialising in protective textiles for the construction sector, has announced a major investment to expand its production capacity.

The Easingwold company has installed a new state-of-the-art large-format digital printer, a move it says will enhance the quality and efficiency of its printed scaffold sheeting and temporary containment products.

ITP said the investment, which forms part of a wider plan to upgrade its infrastructure and resources, will allow it to meet growing demand for high-resolution, wide-format printing across a range of construction applications.

“We have experienced growing demand for extra-large logos, high-impact visuals, and intricate detailing, particularly for full-scale façade reproductions on historic building refurbishments,” said Carl Morse, Managing Director of ITP.

“The addition of another digital printer at our factory will enable us to further develop our offering for applications such as scaffold sheeting, vented sheeting, PVC banners, air mesh banners, and keder sheeting.”

As well as installing the new printer, ITP has carried out factory refurbishments and upgraded its flexographic printing facilities. It has also committed to additional training and the recruitment of extra resources as part of its growth strategy.

The firm’s Sales Director, Matt Thompson, said the enhanced capability would help meet the rising demand for certified flame-retardant products.

“Reliable fire protection is critical in the construction industry,” he said. “Our printed sheeting is third-party certified to meet flame retardancy standards for both external and internal use, helping contractors to comply with regulations on major projects.”

Founded in North Yorkshire, ITP manufactures a broad range of temporary site protection products, including debris netting, filter sheeting, insulated sheeting and acoustic barriers. It also produces a variety of construction membranes designed for building envelope protection, such as breather membranes, vapour control layers, and roofing underlays.

The company supplies its products globally through a growing export division, with an expanding presence in multiple international markets.

Lee Marley Scaffolders to Scale UK’s Highest Peaks in Charity Challenge

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Lee Marley Scaffolders to Scale UK’s Highest Peaks in Charity Challenge
Three members of the Lee Marley Group’s Scaffold Division are preparing to take on the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge this July, aiming to raise £10,000 for two charities close to their hearts. John Sparks, James Wood, and Christian Wright will attempt to climb the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales — Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon — over the course of just two days, from 18–21 July. The challenge will see them cover over 23 miles on foot and ascend a total of more than 3,000 metres, all in the name of raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, supporting children with rare and complex conditions through its One Last Wish campaign, and Band of Builders, a construction charity helping tradespeople and their families through tough times. The scaffolders have already raised over £5,000, according to their JustGiving page — well on their way to their £10,000 target. Speaking about the upcoming challenge, a spokesperson from Lee Marley Group said the trio were training hard and had already begun receiving support from colleagues and the wider industry. “Let’s help them reach their target and raise awareness for two fantastic causes.” the company shared on social media. Supporters are encouraged to donate via JustGiving, follow their journey on Instagram at @lm_three_peaks_challenge2025, and help spread the word by sharing the initiative online. The Three Peaks Challenge is one of the UK’s most iconic endurance tests, requiring participants to scale nearly 3,000 metres of ascent across three nations — all while battling fatigue, weather, and logistics. For these scaffolders, however, the climb is about more than the summit.

Sheffield scaffolding firm secures £250,000 boost to fuel Yorkshire expansion

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Sheffield scaffolding firm secures £250,000 boost to fuel Yorkshire expansion
A family-run scaffolding firm in Sheffield has received a £250,000 funding boost to support its continued growth following the acquisition of a Barnsley-based business. Hi-Point Access, which has doubled its turnover since 2021, has secured the investment from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance, part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. The funds will support the firm’s expansion by providing additional working capital and enabling investment in new equipment following its acquisition of Gap Scaffolding Services. Hi-Point employs over 50 staff from its Sheffield headquarters and delivers a wide range of services including scaffolding hire, mobile elevating platforms, building maintenance, and roofing. Its client list includes major institutions such as Sheffield City Council, Sheffield United Football Club, both of the city’s universities, Utilita Arena, and Robertson Facilities Management, which partners with Wakefield Council. The company was established in 1992 by brothers Steve and Chris Blantern. Today, it is operated by the second generation of the family—Steve’s sons Simon and Matthew, daughter Carly Turley, and her husband Garry. Finance Director Carly Turley described the acquisition of Gap Scaffolding Services as “an exciting step” that strengthens the company’s footprint in Yorkshire. “It’s great to welcome aboard the experienced team at Gap and to expand our footprint with a base in Barnsley,” she said. “The funding from Mercia and NPIF II will enable us to make the most of it by providing additional capital to take on new projects and buy new equipment. We look forward to continuing our expansion throughout Yorkshire and beyond.” The acquisition also marks an exit for Gap’s founder, Steve Griffiths, who launched the business in 2003. The seven-strong team will remain in place at the Barnsley site. Andy Tyas of Mercia Debt praised the company’s progress under its new leadership: “Hi-Point is an established business that has had a new lease of life under the second generation of family members. Over the past few years, they have expanded the range of services and increased turnover, and the acquisition of Gap is another milestone. We are pleased to provide the funding they need to continue their growth journey.” Lizzy Upton, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, which oversees the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, said supporting companies like Hi-Point is central to the fund’s mission. “Hi-Point’s extensive reach across a number of key venues and institutions makes it integral to our region’s vibrant cultural economy,” she said. “It’s good to see NPIF II backing a thriving, family-run business that’s expanding across Yorkshire.” Hi-Point was advised on the deal by Harry Bushell of Hentons Corporate Finance in Sheffield. The introduction to Mercia was made by Kate Darbyshire of Lloyds Bank.

Scaffolding Association Urges Industry-Wide Unity Amid Renewed Scrutiny

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Scaffolding Association Urges Industry-Wide Unity Amid Renewed Scrutiny
The Scaffolding Association has issued a call for greater collaboration across the scaffolding and access sector, following a series of recent events that have placed the industry under renewed public and professional scrutiny. In a statement released today, the Association warned against division and blame, instead urging all stakeholders to come together in a “constructive, sector-wide dialogue” to strengthen standards and preserve the industry’s reputation. The Association acknowledged that the challenges currently facing the sector are not the responsibility of any single organisation or business, and stressed that their impact is being felt industry-wide. “These are not isolated issues,” the statement read. “Their consequences extend to every contractor, scaffolder, client and organisation operating in the field.” While the nature of the incidents prompting the call for unity has not been specified, the message from the Association is clear: cooperation, not confrontation, is the key to ensuring the professionalism and safety of the sector. “No membership organisation or business is without fault,” the Association said. “But finger-pointing and isolation only serve to weaken the collective strength that our industry relies upon.” The statement also addressed the role of audits within the sector, cautioning that audit outcomes — while important — should not be the sole measure of a company’s competence. Instead, true competence, the Association argues, is demonstrated through consistent leadership on-site, technical ability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The scaffolding and access industry, though relatively small compared to other parts of the construction sector, remains essential to successfully delivering a wide range of infrastructure and building projects across the UK. The Scaffolding Association concluded its statement with an open invitation to all businesses and membership bodies to engage in dialogue, reaffirming that shared responsibility and a united front are vital to securing the sector’s future. “High standards must always be prioritised,” the statement added. “But so too must a constructive and professional approach to improvement.”

Scaffolding Collapses Onto Van in North London

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Scaffolding Collapses Onto Van in North London
A large section of scaffolding collapsed onto a van on Stoke Newington Church Street in north London on Wednesday morning, trapping a driver underneath. The incident happened at around 07:30 am on April 16 outside the long-closed Stoke Newington Library. Around three lifts of sheeted scaffolding came down, blocking the road and pavement. The driver was helped from the vehicle by members of the public and was not injured. London Fire Brigade confirmed that several nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution. Photos from the scene show debris scattered across the street, with multiple cordons in place. Police directed pedestrians away from the area while clean-up operations got underway. Hackney Council’s Health and Safety team and TfL’s Incident Response Unit were also present at the scene. The scaffolding had reportedly been in place for nearly three years. The Grade II-listed Stoke Newington Library, where the structure was erected, closed in March 2023 for a two-year refurbishment project. The cause of the collapse has not been officially confirmed, though strong winds at the time are believed to have been a contributing factor. The Health and Safety Executive has been notified.

Caspian Marks 40 Years of Excellence in the UK Scaffold Industry

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Caspian Marks 40 Years of Excellence in the UK Scaffold Industry
A North Lincolnshire-based company is celebrating four decades at the forefront of the UK’s scaffolding sector. Caspian Group Ltd, headquartered in Scunthorpe, has reached its 40th anniversary this April, marking a significant milestone in its journey from a small family business to a national leader in scaffold board manufacturing and access solutions. Founded in 1985, the company has earned a reputation for quality, safety, and customer service, supplying a broad range of products including scaffold boards, beams, Readyfix transoms, tubes, fittings, and the AFIXFast system scaffolding. Over the years, Caspian has maintained a strong emphasis on standards. It holds a BSI Kitemark, PEFC certification, and ISO 9001 accreditation and is also a NASC Supplier Member – credentials that reflect its commitment to safety, sustainability, and performance. As a family-rooted enterprise, the business has remained grounded in values of trust and integrity. Managing Director Neil Garrison said the firm’s longevity is down to its customer-first ethos and a focus on building lasting relationships. Industry clients have praised the company for its consistent product quality and a personable approach that has helped cement its status as a reliable partner in the sector. Looking ahead, Caspian Group Ltd says it remains focused on innovation and expanding its reach, while continuing to support the evolving needs of its customers.

TRAD UK Names Parkinson’s UK as Charity Partner for 2025–26

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TRAD UK Names Parkinson’s UK as Charity Partner for 2025–26
Scaffolding and construction supply specialist TRAD UK has announced Parkinson’s UK as its official charity partner for 2025–26, following a heartfelt nomination from two employees with personal connections to the condition. After raising a substantial sum for Duchenne UK in its previous campaign, TRAD UK has set an ambitious fundraising target of £10,000 for the year ahead. The new partnership stems from the moving stories of two long-serving members of the team—Heidi Taylor from the London depot and Vicki Hardiman-Burt from Andover—whose fathers were both diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Vicki’s father, Dudley, received his diagnosis in 2017 at the age of 68. More recently, in August 2023, Heidi’s father, Nigel, was diagnosed and began attending a local Parkinson’s UK support group in Maldon. Nigel said about his experience: “The group and volunteers are amazing—they put in so much effort. The people are welcoming, warm and non-judgemental. I’ve met some fantastic people and made new friends. The care and support they provide really helps.” Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition caused by the loss of nerve cells in the brain’s substantia nigra. This leads to a reduction in dopamine—a chemical crucial to movement—which causes symptoms including tremors, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness. There is currently no cure, but organisations like Parkinson’s UK continue to fund vital research and support services across the country. TRAD UK Managing Director Colin Dobson said the choice to support Parkinson’s UK this year was both meaningful and unanimous. “Heidi and Vicki have been at the heart of our CSR efforts since the beginning. When they approached us about Parkinson’s UK, we couldn’t think of a more deserving cause,” he said. Fundraising events will take place over the next 12 months, both internally among staff and through community-facing initiatives. Tom Ingram, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Parkinson’s UK, welcomed the announcement: “We’re incredibly grateful to TRAD UK for choosing Parkinson’s UK as their charity partner. With their support, we can continue funding the groundbreaking research needed to find a cure and ensure that people affected by the condition receive the help they need.”

Layher Introduces Cutting-Edge SIM2Field System at Bauma

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Layher Introduces Cutting-Edge SIM2Field System at Bauma
Layher unveiled an array of new products and advancements at Bauma this week, reinforcing its position as a global leader in scaffolding and access technology. However, one stand-out feature that drew significant attention was the introduction of SIM2Field, a digital tool designed to connect 3D scaffolding planning seamlessly with real-world site execution. The innovation, part of the company’s comprehensive LayPLAN SUITE, aims to enhance cost control, transparency, and scheduling accuracy across scaffolding operations—vital elements in a sector where precision is critical. Developed as an extension of Layher SIM® (Scaffolding Information Modeling), SIM2Field uses 3D model data created in LayPLAN CAD and brings it directly onto the construction site. With the help of laser positioning and mobile devices, teams can now ensure that what’s planned digitally is executed precisely on the ground—minimising errors and significantly reducing the need for paper drawings. “This is about turning the digital twin into a real-world reality,” said Sean Pike, UK MD, representing Layher and who gave Scaffmag a stand tour. “SIM2Field brings planning accuracy and transparency to the frontline of scaffolding operations.” By using a total station aligned with reference points from the model, SIM2Field allows scaffolders to project scaffold layouts onto the construction site floor, aligning base spindles and ensuring accurate height and placement. It is particularly effective for complex or high-precision installations, such as in industrial facilities or intricate restoration works. Complementing this is the new SIM2Field XR App, which uses augmented reality to visualise 3D scaffold structures on-site via tablets. The app provides detailed part breakdowns, interactive material lists, and even an ‘exploded view’ for clearer assembly guidance—offering a paperless, connected approach to work preparation and quality control. These innovations are part of Layher’s wider digitalisation strategy, which also includes tools for CAD planning, virtual reality walkthroughs, and 3D laser scanning—positioning the company at the forefront of digital transformation in scaffolding and construction. As digital workflows become increasingly vital to the scaffolding industry, SIM2Field marks a significant step toward turning virtual plans into tangible, time-efficient builds.

JR Scaffold supports major refurbishment at remote Scottish Water site

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JR Scaffold supports major refurbishment at remote Scottish Water site
A remote water treatment site in Stirlingshire has undergone essential refurbishment work with the help of specialist scaffolding firm JR Scaffold. The project at the Touch Water Treatment Works near Cambusbarron involved the installation of complex scaffolding structures around two elevated pipe bridges. The temporary works supported a 10-week programme of repairs to the bridges’ paintwork and structural fabric. Commissioned by civil engineering contractor George Leslie on behalf of Scottish Water, the works took place at a challenging hillside location near the Touch Reservoirs. George Leslie constructed new roads to access the remote site, allowing materials and equipment to reach the high-ground facility. Scaffolding was erected by a small team of experienced scaffolders, with each bridge taking around two weeks to complete. JR Scaffold’s Contracts Director, John Jack, led the operation. “This was a fascinating project due to the remote location and the unusual shape of the pipe bridges,” said Mr Jack. “It’s the kind of complex job we’ve developed real expertise in, and we’re proud to have delivered it successfully alongside our long-standing partners at George Leslie.” One of the bridges spans over water, requiring the use of a floating pontoon supplied by Coastworks to act as a stable working platform. This enabled scaffolders to install beam work beneath the structure. The second bridge was accessed from a nearby embankment, allowing scaffolding to be installed more conventionally. The works are part of Scottish Water’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and upgrading key infrastructure across the country. A spokesperson for George Leslie said the successful delivery of the project was made possible through close collaboration and logistical planning between all parties involved.

AT-PAC targets major European expansion as new scaffolding systems debut at Bauma

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AT-PAC targets major European expansion as new scaffolding systems debut at Bauma
Global scaffolding specialist AT-PAC has confirmed plans for a significant expansion across Europe, as it showcases a range of innovative systems at Bauma 2025 in partnership with Austrian formwork giant Doka. Speaking to ScaffMag during a tour of the AT-PAC stand, Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of umdasch Industrial Solutions, said the company is in the final stages of launching a series of new branches across the continent.
Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of umdasch Industrial Solutions
Paolo Zumaglini, CEO of umdasch Industrial Solutions
“We’re gearing up for huge global expansion,” said Mr Zumaglini. “We’re in the latter stages of opening several branches across Europe, which will strengthen our position and bring us closer to customers in key markets.” AT-PAC is a key scaffolding exhibitor at the world’s largest construction equipment trade fair, held this week in Munich. The company is displaying its latest scaffold systems alongside Doka, with whom it shares a close strategic partnership as part of the Umdasch Group. The collaboration between AT-PAC and Doka has resulted in a host of new modular scaffolding solutions designed to meet the needs of modern construction sites – from high-load structures to public access systems and façade work.

Standout Scaffolding Tower

A centrepiece of the joint stand is a 30-metre scaffold tower, constructed using AT-PAC’s Ringlock system and Doka’s UniKit heavy-duty platform. The structure features a walkable viewing deck and houses several new products developed jointly by the two firms. Among the innovations are: MPBS (Multipurpose Beam System): A modular system offering longer spans and fewer components, compatible with Ringlock and ideal for complex scaffolding geometries. PAS Escape Stair System: A steel staircase solution for high-traffic environments, including public infrastructure and industrial sites, offering child-safety features and full Ringlock compatibility. Ringlock Hybrid Standard: Designed for façade and refurbishment works, combining the benefits of frame and modular scaffolding for greater flexibility and ease of use. Ringshore: A new frame shoring system built on the Ringlock platform, boasting faster assembly and reduced labour requirements.   Each system has been developed to align with the needs of both industrial and construction clients.

A Key Pillar of umdasch Industrial Solutions

  AT-PAC now operates within umdasch Industrial Solutions, a newly created division of the Umdasch Group, sitting alongside Doka and shopfitting specialists umdasch The Store Makers. With more than 30 years of scaffolding expertise, AT-PAC is increasingly seen as the industrial scaffolding arm of the group – leading engineering development and system integration for projects worldwide. Mr Zumaglini emphasised the importance of synergy across the group. “Our internal collaboration means that every innovation is grounded in real-world application. The aim is always the same – to make scaffolding faster, safer and more efficient,” he said. Its presence at bauma marks a pivotal moment in its international growth strategy as AT-PAC continues expanding its European footprint, ambitioning to become one of the top 3 global scaffolding brands.  
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