The Saltburn Viaduct stands as a testament to Victorian engineering, towering over Skelton Beck and Mill Fields since its completion in the late 19th century. Originally built between 1865 and 1872 by the North-Eastern Railway Company, the viaduct served as a vital transportation route for the burgeoning industrial activities in the region, notably the Skinningrove Limestone Mine.Now, nearly 150 years later, this towering structure—spanning over 250 meters long and standing 40 meters high—has required meticulous attention and care to preserve its grandeur for future generations.
This recent refurbishment project, headed by AMCO Giffen, required an extensive scaffolding setup to access the viaduct’s 10 red brick piers and 11 arches. Crossway Scaffolding, a renowned name in the scaffolding industry, was tasked with designing and implementing the access scaffolds that would be critical to the restoration work.
The Scale of the Task
The sheer scale of this scaffolding project is awe-inspiring. Crossway’s solution included 720 meters of beams in just one span, with over 5,000 meters of 1.3-meter beams used throughout the entire job. The structure of the viaduct demanded 10 piers to be fully scaffolded, with each tower averaging 11 lifts in height. Additionally, the 11 arches were beamed across to provide 18 elevated platforms, each spanning 11 meters across. This intricate setup supported more than 1,000 tons of scaffolding material at its peak.
One of the standout challenges was access to the highest parts of the viaduct—up to 180 feet above ground—requiring a highly specialised and durable scaffolding system. The Van Theil Tube-lock system was chosen for its flexibility and efficiency, enabling work crews to access every nook and cranny of the structure, even the hardest-to-reach areas.
“The Saltburn Viaduct project challenged us in ways we didn’t anticipate, but through teamwork and innovative thinking, we were able to deliver a successful outcome,” says Anthony Lomas, Operations Director, Crossway Scaffolding.
Overcoming Unique Challenges
Given its remote location, the Saltburn Viaduct presented numerous logistical hurdles. The ground conditions around Skelton Beck were less than ideal, necessitating innovative approaches to stabilise the scaffolding structure. In several areas, traditional scaffolding foundations were simply not feasible. Crossway utilised specialist RMD equipment to bolt the scaffolding directly to the structure to overcome this, ensuring stability even in these challenging conditions.
Working at such heights also introduced significant safety risks. In response, Crossway implemented a mechanical lifting arm fitted with a stretcher, designed to safely lower any worker in case of an emergency. This extra layer of safety reflected the company’s commitment to prioritising worker well-being throughout the project.
The project’s timing added to the complexity—it was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic. This meant enforcing strict health and safety protocols, such as enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) and social distancing measures. Crossway arranged for additional vehicles to transport workers to and from the site to minimise the risks, ensuring adherence to social distancing rules.
Scott Grant, SSSTS Supervisor at Crossway Scaffolding, said, “From the ground conditions to working at height, every aspect of this job pushed us to our limits. But seeing the finished project makes it all worthwhile.”
Adapting on the Fly
Scaffolding projects of this scale often require adjustments as work progresses, and the Saltburn Viaduct project was no exception. Initially, only four piers were set to be scaffolded using RMDs. However, as the team dug deeper into the project, ground conditions necessitated expanding this approach to seven full piers.
One notable adaptation was using a CL 25 General Purpose Bracket to create platforms lower on the piers. This allowed the team to install RMD Gallows brackets more quickly and efficiently. These lightweight brackets were installed from an alloy tower in the water—a challenging task that highlighted the team’s ingenuity and technical prowess.
Collaboration and Coordination
No project of this magnitude can succeed without strong collaboration. Throughout the 12-month project, Crossway worked closely with AMCO Giffen, their design team, and several other key partners. Detailed designs for the scaffolding solutions were provided, while Direct Hoist contributed to the safe and efficient transportation of materials. SIMIAN RISK, an independent safety inspector, conducted frequent inspections to ensure compliance with all safety protocols and best practices.
A Triumph in Scaffolding
Despite the many challenges, the Saltburn Viaduct scaffolding project was a resounding success. The project was completed within its 12-month timeline, a remarkable feat considering the complexity and scale of the work. Crossway’s innovative solutions, such as the use of RMDs and the mechanical lifting arm, proved critical in overcoming the project’s unique hurdles.
The project has been recognised industry-wide, culminating in Crossway being awarded the prestigious NASC 2021 Project of the Year Award for their work on the Saltburn Viaduct. This accolade is a testament not only to the team’s technical capabilities but also to their commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in scaffolding.
Lessons Learned
The Saltburn Viaduct project offered valuable insights into the importance of adaptability and innovation in scaffolding. The decision to pivot and use RMDs on additional piers was instrumental in maintaining the project’s timeline and safety. Additionally, the use of mechanical lifting equipment highlighted the importance of incorporating advanced safety features when working at height.
For Crossway, the project also underscored the need for solid logistical planning, particularly when working in remote locations or under challenging conditions. The company’s decision to provide local accommodation for its workers during the week improved morale and ensured that work continued without delays caused by long commutes.
Looking Forward
With the successful completion of the Saltburn Viaduct project, Crossway has once again proven itself as a leader in the scaffolding industry. The company’s innovative approaches and steadfast commitment to safety and quality will undoubtedly serve as a blueprint for future projects of this scale and complexity.
For now, the Saltburn Viaduct continues to stand tall—a lasting symbol of engineering brilliance, preserved for future generations thanks to the skill and dedication of Crossway Scaffolding.
This article was originally published in Issue 23 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Design is a critical part of your project. You can’t ignore it. And, if you want to maximise your investment in Layher Allround® , you need to make sure you’re getting the most comprehensive design first time round.A poor design, or a lack of understanding of the Allround® product will lead to problems with your project. This in turn will mean that you’ll have to consult Layher to get things sorted – and in the meantime, you might have delayed the project and reduced your customer’s confidence in your ability to do the job at all.So, it’s my opinion that you should get this part of your project right from the outset. And the best way to do that is to use Layher’s expert design team, which has been providing experienced design and product support to customers for many years.In my long experience with Layher Allround®, I found that using external designers gave me a particular set of problems. While external design companies undoubtedly always do their very best to support their clients, and provide a value service to the industry, I found that they just weren’t – and couldn’t be – as conversant with the product as Layher’s own designers. So I often needed costly design changes, going back to Layher anyway, and managing the subsequent delays to the project. The potential savings available to you by getting your initial design right is worth the cost at the design stage – and using Layher’s service is, on balance, more competitive than going to an external designer in any event. Today, Layher’s technical design and support service is, in my opinion, the very best on the market, with no real comparison. In this article, I’ll look at what Layher offers and why you should take advantage of its service.
Design that’s focused on your success
When I’m talking to scaffolding contractors about how to make the most of their investment, I always start with telling them that Layher’s design team takes into account the equipment you have – both in the yard, and equipment being returned from other projects.A Layher designer will ask you to look at your stock mix, advise them via their design request form of your desired bay sizes and the materials you want to use, and then use design principles that ensure you don’t have to make any unnecessary additional purchases or adjustments. Layher uses both CAD and VR designs – the LAYplan Suite – which can be provided to you if needed, so you can visualise exactly how the design will look, and calculate your equipment needs precisely. The company’s design team of 11 experienced engineers, led by Technical Director, Anita Singh, and working from four locations across the UK, is available to all Layher customers – at cost price only. In my opinion, this is a bargain, and I think makes absolute sense for contractors to use it. Here’s why:
Unparalleled product expertise
If you’re using Layher Allround® system scaffolding, or any other Layher product range, you’re simply not going to find anyone else with the depth and breadth of product knowledge. This service effectively gives you a product expert that’s dedicated to helping you make the best use of your equipment. This is important, because moving into using system scaffolding is a big investment. There are efficiencies to be had, and the more help and support you can get with everything from design to logistics, the better placed you are to maximise the financial benefits more quickly. Layher offers the most comprehensive design support in the system scaffolding market.It’s important to note here that Layher Allround®, just like other original manufacturer proprietary system scaffolding, is a unique and specialised product, each with its own brand. They are categorically not generic rosette systems, and to say otherwise – no matter your position or reputation in the industry – is simply misleading. To get the most from your Allround® product, and to meet strict health and safety requirements, I’d always recommend that you use a brand expert to do your design.
Turnkey service
From supporting you with an initial client enquiry to giving you on-site support, the Layher technical team offers an end-to-end service. For your business, this means you’re never left on your own, wondering how to manage your system offering – there’s someone to help you at every stage of every project, if you need them.
Can-do attitude
When you buy Layher, you become part of the Layher family. That means that nothing is too much trouble. The engineering team is ready to help you find a solution, understand your equipment’s potential and provide additional services to give you 100% confidence in running your system offering.
Customisation
While you’ll be able to manage most projects with your standard Layher equipment, there may be times when you need solutions parts, or have a more complex project to design. That’s where being a Layher customer really proves its value. The team can design parts that are tailored to your needs – something you won’t see anywhere else in the marketplace – and turn round the manufacturing process very promptly. They can also support you with complex design and materials calculation so that you can take on more ambitious projects.What’s more, using this design approach ensures consistent quality across your build – using the team’s knowledge of the precise capacity of each product or component.
Engineering expertise
The Layher engineering team is highly qualified and experienced. Because they are dedicated to Layher’s products and have an in-depth understanding of the products, you can completely rely on them to give you the support you need. Crucially, not only do they understand the product – they understand the commercial environment that you work in – across a wide range of industries – and have a comprehensive knowledge of the differing requirements you may come across. So all designs, advice and support are focused on helping you realise the value of your investment.Layher’s commitment to engineering excellence isn’t just about its current product range – it’s about innovation and continuous development, so you benefit from the drive to design and deliver the best quality products across the board. And that’s not just from Layher UK – it’s from the wider Layher design family.
Layher people
Every Layher customer is part of the Layher team. The business has clear company values and a culture that demonstrates its commitment to personal and product development. Once you’ve invested in Layher, you have access to outstanding levels of support.
Your success is Layher’s success
As a market leader in system scaffolding, Layher understands that its business is about far more than just selling equipment. Layher focuses on your growth and your commercial achievements – its core values of Service, Support, Solutions and Supply mean that it takes a 360° approach to working with you from your initial enquiry onwards. That includes working with you – with no upfront charge – when you are effectively speculating on a project, such as bidding for a larger contract. Layher is happy to speculate with you, helping you to put the best proposition forward.I know from personal experience that Layher really is your partner – it’s not just a slogan.
Using Layher’s design service
There are some strategic design partners who use Layher’s software, but in my opinion, the people who understand Layher’s products best are the in-house engineers. They live and breathe the product every day, they have the experience to know what works best in a wide variety of projects, and they are the first to see how Layher’s product innovations can help clients to do even more.Either way, you’ll need to pay for your design services. Layher charges its design services at cost. There’s no profit being made here, and in fact, the business is unlikely to recover the full cost of its expert team. So you get an affordable service that’s backed by the product expertise you need in order to see a clear return on your investment.It doesn’t matter what type of project you’re working on. Layher’s team is highly experienced across all sectors, including:
Oil, gas and offshore
Construction and street works
Events
Rail and highways
Housing and new-build residential
Specialist projects
This experience means that the team has an in-depth understanding of project requirements and challenges, including speed, timelines, document control, health and safety, public interface and site support.So, my question to scaffolding contractors who use Layher Allround® – or who are thinking about investing in it – is ‘why wouldn’t you’? You access the best Layher product knowledge and engineering expertise on the market for a fair price – and by doing that, you can maximise the returns on your system investment and build a secure and profitable business unit.
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has issued a clarification following the recent circulation of inaccurate information surrounding CISRS-accredited Scaffolding & Access Skills Bootcamps.Aiming to provide transparent communication, NASC has outlined the true funding structure and eligibility for these training initiatives, which are crucial for addressing skill shortages in the scaffolding industry.The inaccurate press release had mistakenly suggested that the Skills Bootcamps were fully funded and exclusively accessible to participants associated with certain member organisations.NASC has clarified that, while these bootcamps do receive funding, full subsidies are limited to new entrants, with partial funding available for eligible upskilling courses at rates between 70% and 90%. Furthermore, access to these bootcamps is offered only through select CISRS-accredited centres throughout the UK.Supporting the Skills Bootcamps scheme remains a top priority for NASC it said, which views the initiative as a vital means to attract new talent into the scaffolding and access sector. By equipping workers with essential skills, NASC says it aims to foster employment opportunities and tackle skill shortages in a proactive and inclusive manner. Importantly, NASC is working alongside multiple industry organisations to broaden access to these training opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring that Skills Bootcamps are not confined to members of specific associations or bodies.NASC’s efforts align with the Department for Education’s funding rules, aiming to deliver a program that benefits the industry as a whole. The organisation continues to work with partners to expand the reach of these bootcamps across England, promoting a sector-wide approach that champions accessibility.For more information on Skills Bootcamps funding, locations, and eligibility, NASC encourages interested parties to contact them directly or visit their website at nasc.org.uk.
All Access Training Services Ltd has expanded its training facilities in Scotland with a new CISRS-accredited training centre at Glasgow Airport Business Park, enabling them to offer a wider range of scaffolding courses, including CISRS Part 1.The 1,500-square-metre facility marks a significant step in enhancing scaffolding training provision within Scotland, providing more accessible and comprehensive training opportunities for those entering or advancing in the industry. Courses available at the centre range from basic training, such as the CISRS COTS, to more advanced qualifications, including Part 1, Supervisor, and various CISRS SSPTS courses.A CISRS Auditor who recently inspected the facility commended its high standards and capacity for growth, stating: “This new centre has been fitted out to the highest standards in all aspects of CISRS requirements and has space to grow its portfolio of courses. I wish the centre every success in this new venue.”All Access Training has emphasised that the new centre reflects its commitment to the development of skills in the scaffolding sector, aiming to support the industry’s growth through high-quality, accessible training.For further information on available courses, visit the official CISRS training centre listings here. Contact details and additional course information can be found on the All Access Training Services Ltd website at allaccesstraining.co.uk.
Sunbelt Rentals has won the 2024 Supported Scaffold Project of the Year Award from the Scaffold and Access Industry Association (SAIA) for its work on Miami’s historic Freedom Tower. This award recognises Sunbelt’s innovative access solutions in tackling the unique challenges posed by the nearly century-old structure.Miami’s Freedom Tower, a landmark with deep cultural significance, has stood for almost 100 years and required careful handling during its restoration. With a building structure that narrows as it rises, limited surrounding space, and exposure to frequent severe weather, the restoration project demanded both structural ingenuity and a high standard of safety.Sunbelt Rentals devised a custom scaffolding system combining supported and suspended sections, allowing teams to work on the building’s more complex areas. From the 14th floor to the top dome, a 100-foot scaffold extended 40 feet on each side, while suspended platforms provided additional access to hard-to-reach spots.defaultThis approach enabled restoration work to proceed smoothly, balancing the project’s demanding specifications with the need to protect the tower’s historic features.Reflecting on the award, Jacco Kappers, Senior Vice President of Scaffold Services at Sunbelt Rentals, said, “We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from SAIA. The Freedom Tower project exemplifies the expertise, precision, and dedication Sunbelt Rentals brings to every project. We’re proud to have contributed to the restoration of such an iconic landmark.”Each year, the SAIA awards attract hundreds of submissions from across the U.S. scaffold and access industry. Winning this award marks a major achievement for Sunbelt Rentals, positioning the company as a leader in safe, innovative scaffolding solutions.
In a tragic incident in Hong Kong, a scaffolding worker fell to his death earlier today while dismantling bamboo scaffolding on an industrial building in To Kwa Wan. The 44-year-old man was found unconscious on a concrete canopy at the 11-storey Tung Nam Factory Building on Tuesday afternoon. The accident occurred around 2 p.m., prompting colleagues to alert emergency services.Firefighters used a hydraulic platform to reach the worker, and paramedics transported him to Kwong Wah Hospital in Yau Ma Tei, where he was pronounced dead. Witnesses reported seeing the man fall from near the top of the scaffolding, accompanied by bamboo poles and an angle bracket. A male pedestrian said he heard a loud “bang” as the worker landed on the awning below, adding that he saw no safety ropes on the worker during the rescue.The Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union expressed profound regret over the fatality, describing it as an industrial accident. The union underscored the need for enhanced safety measures on construction sites, particularly adherence to the government’s code of practice for bamboo scaffolding. This code mandates that employers provide workers with essential safety equipment, such as full-body harnesses and independent lifelines.The Labour Department, alongside police, has launched an investigation into the incident, aiming to establish whether safety regulations were followed. The union reiterated its call for all construction workers to use proper safety gear to prevent similar tragedies.This incident underscores the ongoing challenges and risks in Hong Kong’s construction industry, particularly in bamboo scaffolding, a traditional method that remains widely used in the city despite its inherent dangers.
TRAD UK, a leading name in the scaffolding supply industry, has reaffirmed its dedication to quality and safety by highlighting its extensive range of NASC-approved and audited products. The company is calling on contractors to be vigilant when selecting products, ensuring that they meet British and European Standards through NASC (National Access & Scaffolding Confederation) approval. With an industry-wide emphasis on safety and compliance, TRAD UK believes contractors can have confidence in the integrity and compliance of their products.“Contractors should check with suppliers to confirm that the products they are purchasing are NASC-approved,” stated Alan Slater, Head of Technical & Product Support at TRAD UK.“This verification assures them that the products they are using meet the high standards required in our industry. At TRAD UK, we are proud to say that wherever possible our product lineup has undergone rigorous NASC auditing, giving our clients a reliable source for compliant scaffolding materials.”Contrary to a common industry misconception, NASC Supplier Members do not automatically have their products audited by NASC, this is a voluntary process and TRAD UK currently stands as the only Supplier Member offering NASC-audited products in all seven product categories. These products include:
EN 39 Type 4 Scaffold Tube (4mm)
EN 10219-1 3.2mm Scaffold Tube
BS 2482 Scaffold Boards
EN 74-1 Scaffold Couplers (Doubles, Swivels, and Sleeves)
Aluminium Beams
TRADLOK
TRADSTAIR
Plettac Metrix
Prefabricated Structural Transoms (Readyloks)
Additionally, TRAD UK provides a full range of aluminium alloy beams for all project requirements, including the TRAD 450mm, TRAD 750mm, Altrix 790mm, Asterix 750mm, Asterix HD, and the Apollo 450mm and 750mm X-Beams – all of which hold NASC approval. TRAD UK believes it may be unique in offering such an extensive range of audited products.The company also notes that NASC Contractor Members are required, during their yearly audit, to provide NASC Product CoP (Code of Practice) audit certificates from their suppliers. If a contractor uses products from non-audited suppliers, they will need to supply additional documentation to meet NASC standards. By choosing NASC-approved products from TRAD UK, contractors can streamline compliance processes and ensure adherence to the highest industry standards.For more information on TRAD UK’s NASC-approved product range and to explore their extensive line of scaffolding solutions, please visitwww.traduk.com, or you can see their representatives in person at the NASC’s upcoming ScaffEx 24 exhibition on the 29th of November, where TRAD UK will be exhibiting on stands 1A/1B.
Scaffmag Editor Daniel Norton sat down with ScaffPlan directors Simon Boyes and Ben Beaumont to find out where the company is heading and how it plans to continue transforming the scaffolding industry. With major updates and new product releases on the horizon, Boyes and Beaumont shared insights on ScaffPlan’s growth, upcoming software features, and their vision for the future of scaffold design.ScaffPlan was born out of necessity in 2020 when Simon Boyes, a scaffolding expert and former owner of Benchmark Scaffolding, saw a need for a more efficient, accurate, and user-friendly solution to scaffold design.Frustrated by the limitations of existing platforms, Boyes envisioned a solution that could simplify the design process while maintaining millimetre-level precision. What started as an internal tool for Boyes’ scaffolding business quickly evolved into ScaffPlan, a powerful scaffold design platform integrating advanced 3D modelling and Building Information Modelling (BIM).In March 2024, Simon Boyes made a pivotal decision by selling Benchmark Scaffolding to focus entirely on the development and growth of ScaffPlan. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of scaffold design technology solidified ScaffPlan’s position as an industry leader, enabling Boyes to dedicate his full energy toward transforming how scaffolders plan, design, and manage their projects.
The Beginnings: Addressing Industry Needs
Simon Boyes’ experience running one of Australia’s largest scaffolding contractors highlighted the inefficiencies inherent in the design process. The scaffold design team and project managers at Benchmark struggled with cumbersome, outdated software that was often too complex or insufficient for the real-world demands of scaffold construction. Recognising the need for a better solution, Boyes and his team set out to build a platform that was intuitive enough for the scaffolding team on site, powerful enough for complex projects, and detailed enough for design engineers.“We’ve used every design platform on the market, and some of them are really good at some things, but not so great at others. We wanted to build a platform that was easy to use but super accurate and detailed,” Simon explains.ScaffPlan delivered on that promise, offering users a 3D modelling solution with parametric modelling tools and with built-in engineering capability that enabled users to design faster, more precisely, and with fewer errors. “At Benchmark we had our scaffold teams using ScaffPlan in the field on their phone, collaborating directly with the design team, who made updates or client-led revisions in real time. Everyone could use it effectively and it made us more efficient.”
Expansion and New Features
Earlier this year, ScaffPlan launched Version 1.7, which introduced a host of new features aimed at increasing flexibility and usability.Key among these updates was its expanded system scaffold range, which allows scaffolders to work with systems such as Altrad Futuro, Metrix, Scafom-Rux, and HAKI Universal – taking the total number of supported systems to sixteen.Notable for many UK readers was the update of the tube and fitting tools in ScaffPlan, making them faster and much easier to use. ScaffPlan’s ‘ScaffBlock’ feature is a new tool that simplifies the creation of reusable parametric blocks by the user from any combination of items that can be used over and over in their designs.“The ScaffBlock tool is one of my favourites, it works really nicely with all scaffolding and is especially powerful for tube and fitting”, explains Boyes. “You can model anything you like, such as a lift of scaffolding, define the properties that you’d like to be able change each time, such as the number of inside boards or transom centres, and then save it and use it over and over again”.We should also not forget Phase Manager, a feature that enables users to manage different project phases more efficiently and link them to gear lists, sequence drawings and animations.These additions solidified ScaffPlan’s position as a comprehensive solution for scaffold design, safety checks, and project management, making it indispensable for both large-scale and smaller projects.
“If ‘a picture speaks a thousand words’ then a ScaffPlan model speaks a million!” – Ben Beaumont.
ScaffPlan’s journey took another pivotal turn at the beginning of this year with the appointment of Ben Beaumont as Director. Beaumont, a respected figure in the UK’s scaffolding and temporary works sectors, brings over two decades of experience and a deep understanding of the industry. His appointment marks a new era for ScaffPlan as it expands its reach globally and enhances its leadership in scaffolding technology.Beaumont’s expertise in scaffolding and temporary works combined with an entrepreneurial background, which came from founding and leading 48.3, a scaffolding design and training consultancy and years of leading the Temporary Works Forum (TWf), align with ScaffPlan’s mission to innovate and revolutionise the scaffolding sector. Together, Boyes and Beaumont are committed to transforming scaffolding design and project management by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology.“We now have a unique opportunity to change how scaffolding and temporary works are conceived, designed, collaborated on, and executed. The potential for positive change is huge, and that’s really exciting,” Beaumont said.
Where ScaffPlan is Headed
As ScaffPlan continues to evolve, Boyes and Beaumont revealed that the company is working on several exciting new additions to the platform, set to launch in Q1 of 2025. The most notable of these innovations is a new version of the software.“We’re taking all the power of our existing design platform and putting it into a simpler, easier-to-use, and much cheaper solution,” says Boyes. “This is targeted at a wider audience who will benefit from the ease of use and accessibility.” The new version will bring accurate and flexible 3D modelling capability to a wider industry audience through the automated tools that ScaffPlan includes. Estimators, contract managers, and supervisors, who would all benefit from the improved communication and planning that this 3D capability offers, will now be able to include it in their tenders and planning documents, improving their professionalism and helping them win more work. Beaumont said, “It is important that we make our tools accessible for everyone so that collaboration can happen more effectively – scaffold teams, designers and project stakeholders all working together seamlessly. The quality and effectiveness of communication between everyone will improve, and that will drive efficiency and reduce mistakes.” In addition, ScaffPlan is also developing a bespoke Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system designed specifically for scaffolders and the construction industry. This CRM will allow scaffolding companies to track leads, deals, and quotes, essentially offering a platform that can be used to run their business.The software is designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing design tools, creating a fully unified system for managing both the technical and business sides of scaffolding operations.
ScaffPlan’s Vision for the Future
With its continued commitment to innovation, ScaffPlan is poised to remain at the forefront of the construction technology sector. The upcoming launch of its new version and CRM system highlights the company’s dedication to making scaffold design and management more accessible to businesses of all sizes. By combining 3D modelling, BIM, and now business management tools, ScaffPlan is positioned to reshape the way scaffolding companies design, plan, and manage their projects.“For me it’s about how effectively we all work together – key to doing that is communication. If ‘a picture speaks a thousand words’ then a ScaffPlan model speaks a million!” said Beaumont. “Printed 2D drawings will be gradually replaced by fully interactive 3D models, some of our customers are doing this now. They’ve experienced the benefits of transition to 3D on collaboration and communication, and now their customers want it on every project.”The ScaffPlan team are focused on creating a future where scaffolding businesses, large and small, can leverage cutting-edge technology to improve safety, efficiency, and productivity.“We want to ensure that every scaffolder has access to the tools they need to be successful, whether they’re a large company working on industrial sites or a smaller operation focused on residential projects,” Boyes explains.
Shaping the Future of Scaffold Design
Having seen a first-hand demonstration of ScaffPlan, I was blown away by the level of detail in the 3D models and its effortless simplicity to navigate—even the smallest of details were crystal clear. I’m confident that if any scaffolding contractor were to show this model to a potential client, they would immediately understand what is set to be built. This level of clarity is transformative for the industry, bridging the gap between design intent and real-world execution.ScaffPlan’s journey from inception to its current status as an industry leader is a testament to Simon Boyes’ vision and the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation. With the upcoming releases, including the light version and a custom-built CRM system for scaffolders, ScaffPlan is set to transform how the industry operates.As someone who’s had the privilege of witnessing the platform’s capabilities first-hand, I’m convinced that ScaffPlan is paving the way for a future where scaffold design is more accessible, efficient, and collaborative than ever before. The scaffolding industry is evolving, and with tools like ScaffPlan, that evolution is set to be faster, smarter, and more impactful for everyone involved.This article was originally published in Issue 23 of the ScaffMag magazine.
In a milestone project set to redefine Glasgow’s skyline, JR Scaffold, one of Scotland’s leading scaffolding firms, has helped lay the groundwork for the country’s tallest residential building. The ambitious development, located in the heart of Glasgow’s city centre on India Street, will transform the former HMRC building into The Àrd, a 36-storey tower offering 784 ensuite rooms and studios for students, marking a new pinnacle in Scottish architecture.JR Scaffold, entrusted by Putnam Construction to oversee the critical first phase of the project, erected an impressive 2,000 square meters of scaffolding and 500 linear meters of edge protection on the Portcullis House site in Glasgow’s bustling Charing Cross area. This elaborate scaffolding system enabled the safe and efficient demolition of the building’s façade, paving the way for future construction.Alistair McKay, Contracts Supervisor at JR Scaffold, emphasised the complexities of the project, noting the team’s challenges working in a busy urban setting. “This was a complex project for our team as we had to overcome design aspects due to the scaffolding’s close proximity to other buildings in this busy, city centre location. We also consulted engineers regarding wind loadings once the façade was demolished, as the retained concrete frame is now exposed to the elements,” McKay explained. “The Àrd will be a truly iconic addition to Glasgow’s skyline, visible from the city and the nearby M8 motorway. We’re proud to have played a part in bringing it to life.”With the scaffolding set to remain in place until the construction progresses on Scotland’s tallest residential building, JR Scaffold’s contribution marks the beginning of a transformation that will make The Àrd a prominent feature in Glasgow’s skyline.Founded in Paisley, The JR Group began as a scaffolding provider and has since expanded to become one of Scotland’s largest construction companies. Now employing around 200 people, the firm continues to demonstrate its expertise through high-profile projects for leading UK housebuilders, registered social landlords, and private clients across Scotland and Northern England.
If you’ve ever considered a career change from scaffolding to teaching, now is the time.
The CITB’s National Construction College (NCC) is looking for experienced scaffolders to join its team of instructors and help train the next generation of industry professionals.
With open days on Thursday, 28th November, and Saturday, 30th November, at both Bircham Newton and Erith, it’s the perfect chance to explore what this career shift could mean for you.
Why Consider a Role at NCC?
For seasoned scaffolders, becoming an instructor offers more than just a change of pace. It’s a chance to pass on years of real and practical experience. You’ll be responsible for guiding the next wave of talent entering the construction industry to seasoned professionals looking to upskill; you’ll support learners through everything from core skills to specialised CISRS and SITS training.
As CITB Instructor Jordan Hurry explains, “Every day is different and comes with unique challenges and greater rewards. I feel immense job satisfaction knowing I’m helping shape the future of our trade.”
Meet Jordan Hurry – A Journey from Scaffolder to Instructor
Jordan Hurry
Jordan, a former scaffolder with 13 years in the field, made the switch to teaching at NCC just over a year ago. With experience across various projects, he now applies his hands-on knowledge to inspire new learners.
“I wanted to make a difference and prove that scaffolding is a skilled trade,” says Jordan. “Now, instead of working on-site with tubes and spanners, I’m helping learners build their futures.”
Since joining NCC, Jordan has completed his Level 3 Teaching and Education qualification and was recently promoted to lecturer. His journey showcases the opportunities available for those ready to make the leap into teaching.
Why Join the NCC Team?
At NCC, instructors enjoy:
Competitive pay and benefits
Professional training and development opportunities
A supportive team environment where innovation is encouraged
With NCC’s ongoing investments in modernising content and infrastructure, it’s an exciting time to become part of this team.
Ready to Make the Change?
Join us at the upcoming open days at our NCC sites to learn more about this unique opportunity. You’ll get a chance to meet current instructors, tour the facilities and ask any questions you may have.
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