Scaffolding industry celebrates at Manchester awards night

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Scaffolding industry celebrates at Manchester awards night

The UK scaffolding and access industry gathered in Manchester on Friday to celebrate its leading figures and landmark projects at the Scaffolding Excellence Awards 2025.

The event, held at Manchester Central to mark the close of the ScaffEx25 exhibition, brought together contractors, suppliers and guests from around the world.

Television presenters Alex Jones and Clare Balding co-hosted the ceremony, joined on stage by Leigh Francis, Mike Tindall and Shaun Ryder.

Major winners

The night’s standout prize went to Allen & Foxworthy for its work on the Blenheim Palace Roof Restoration. The company collected both Design of the Year and Project of the Year – Large.

Judges described the scheme as the “project of a lifetime” and praised its “innovation, creativity and problem-solving on a job that demanded genuine out-of-the-box thinking”.

Other notable winners included:

  • Apprentice of the Year: Rhys Bennett of JMAC

  • Lifetime Achievement: Rob West of Benchmark Scaffolding

  • Product of the Year: Staht

  • Service of the Year: Leach’s

Rob West, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, was commended for his role in raising industry standards, strengthening safety culture and mentoring the workforce. Judges said his influence had extended beyond his own company, helping shape “industry thinking” across commercial, rail, infrastructure and heritage sectors.

Clive Dickin, Group Chief Executive of NASC and CISRS, described the evening as a highlight of the industry calendar. “It’s a great opportunity for the industry to get together and celebrate the achievements of the brilliant people in the industry.

The winning projects are remarkable examples of what this industry can and does achieve every day,” he said.

Full list of winners

  • Apprentice of the Year (CISRS): Rhys Bennett, JMAC (runner-up John Stokes, Shield Services Group)

  • Service of the Year (NASC Insurance Services): Leach’s

  • Project of the Year – Small (Southern Hoist Services): Proplant Scaffolding (highly commended: Malvern Scaffolding)

  • Product of the Year (Step-Up Scaffold UK): Staht

  • Design of the Year (Worldwide Scaffold and Access): Allen & Foxworthy

  • Project of the Year – Medium (JR Scaffold Services): Rose System Scaffolding (highly commended: Chris Sedgeman Scaffolding)

  • Project of the Year – Large (Trad UK): Allen & Foxworthy (highly commended: Inner City Scaffolding)

  • Project of the Year – Major (AT-PAC): ISS

  • Lifetime Achievement (Leach’s): Rob West, Benchmark Scaffolding

The awards, organised by the NASC, capped a week that saw Manchester host the largest scaffolding and access expo held in the UK to date.

ScaffEx25 – The Start of Something Special

Daniel Norton
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ScaffEx25 – The Start of Something Special

ScaffEx25 has now closed its doors in Manchester, and as I reflect on the two days, one thing is clear — this event has marked the beginning of something significant for our industry.

Last year’s ScaffEx in Belfast was an important first step. However, Manchester demonstrated just how far the concept has already progressed. The leap in size, scale, and ambition was evident to everyone.

It wasn’t perfect, and I wouldn’t expect it to be. But that didn’t change the mood. What mattered was the sense that something new and incredibly valuable was taking shape for our industry.

Why Manchester mattered

The choice of city and venue did a great deal of work for the event. Manchester understands industry. It’s a city built on making things, rebuilding itself, and moving forward, a good mirror for scaffolding’s own story.

Manchester Central, with its vast single-span hall, kept the show flowing. Clear sightlines, simple navigation, and a location in the heart of the city ensured that foot traffic never dipped on Friday, and meetings ran back-to-back.

Step outside and you’re just minutes from hotels, rail links, and places to keep the conversation going. That matters for a trade show that runs on relationships as much as it does on products.

A global step forward

One of the most significant international developments in the scaffolding sector for half a century has been announced in Manchester this morning with the launch of the International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA).
IASA founding members in attendance at ScaffEx25 in Manchester

The launch of the International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA) was, for me, a defining moment. Although others have tried, for the first time ever, organisations from across the world have chosen to unite under one banner. That’s a historic step, and the fact that it happened on the first day of ScaffEx25 shows how quickly this event has earned credibility.

Additionally, BBC Breakfast broadcasting live from the show floor underlined that the message is cutting through beyond our sector. National media shining a light on skills, economic impact, and the role scaffolding plays in delivery is no small thing. It signals momentum.

Across two days, there were also other significant announcements. The details varied, but the direction was the same: higher standards, better tools, and closer collaboration.

Innovation you could feel — and use

On the exhibition floor, innovation wasn’t just a buzzword; it meant real solutions. Digital platforms to manage inspections and handovers. Access systems built for speed and safety. Integrated tools linking design teams with site operations.

Competitors showcased their latest systems within metres of each other, driving genuine progress. Contractors asked the question that matters: “Does this make my workforce more efficient, safer, and compliant from day one?” Exhibitors proved it with hands-on demonstrations.

One supplier told me on Friday they’d been “flat out since the doors opened”. A young scaffolder said it was “inspiring to see the tech and training in one place”. Those remarks stayed with me because they captured the tone: serious, optimistic, and focused on outcomes.

A community coming together

The headline wasn’t a product. It was the people. ScaffEx brought together contractors, suppliers, trainers, and designers in a way rarely seen. Conversations turned into collaborations, and challenges became shared solutions.

One contractor from the North West caught the mood: “There’s been a real buzz — you don’t often get everyone together like this.” Another phrase echoed across the floor: “You can see this getting bigger every year.” That’s the truth. ScaffEx is fast establishing itself as the dedicated stage our trade has needed for years.

My take

ScaffEx25 marked a major leap from Belfast. It delivered not only scale but maturity — a credible stage, national attention, and a unique blend of rivalry and collaboration.

Having covered the sector for years, I can say this event felt different. Manchester demonstrated that ScaffEx is more than just another date. It is fast becoming the dedicated arena where the future of scaffolding is defined.

Yes, the format can still evolve. But the trajectory is unmistakable. ScaffEx25 has established momentum. The task now is to build on it.

BBC Breakfast broadcasts live from ScaffEx25

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BBC Breakfast broadcasts live from ScaffEx25

BBC Breakfast was on air from Manchester this morning as the broadcaster joined the second day of ScaffEx25, the UK’s largest scaffolding and access industry event.

The programme featured live segments from the exhibition floor at Manchester Central, where hundreds of delegates and dozens of exhibitors gathered yesterday to showcase the latest products, technology, and training in the sector.

Organised by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), ScaffEx25 has drawn companies and industry leaders from across the UK and overseas. The two-day event includes a packed conference programme, live demonstrations, and a major awards evening.

Coverage on BBC Breakfast focused on the industry’s skills crisis and the importance of scaffolding to the UK economy. Reports highlighted that up to 40,000 new scaffolders are needed each year to meet demand, with employers and training providers working to attract more people into the trade through apprenticeships and entry-level programmes.

Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of the NASC, said ScaffEx25 provided the perfect platform for these conversations.

Scaffolding reaches Tyne Bridge parapets ahead of repainting works

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Scaffolding reaches Tyne Bridge parapets ahead of repainting works
The Tyne Bridge restoration project has reached a new stage as scaffolding is installed around the bridge’s parapets, with work now underway to prepare for major repairs and repainting. Contractors have begun constructing so-called “up and overs” on the west footway. The structures extend from the underdeck, up the side, and over the parapet, creating access for work on the screen plates and parapets. As part of the process, a pedestrian tunnel will be built to allow people to continue using the bridge safely. The west footway tunnel is expected to open in early 2026, with a similar structure planned for the east side later in the programme. Once the parapet and screen plate work is finished, the scaffolding will be removed, making way for a safety deck to be built on the bridge deck. This will allow work to begin on the bridge’s central arch. Councillor Juna Sathian, Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for transport and climate, said the progress was welcome: “It’s great to see such fantastic progress being made on the Tyne Bridge, as we restore an icon to its former glory. With 20 different phases of scaffolding required, this is a complex programme designed to keep the bridge open while the restoration continues.” Councillor John McElroy, Gateshead Council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “The detailed work completed on the bridge structure is so impressive. When the programme is complete, we will see the bridge looking fantastic, like new.” Esh Construction, which is delivering the scheme on behalf of Newcastle and Gateshead councils, confirmed more than 2,000 rivets have been replaced and 420 separate repairs carried out during the latest stage.

13,000 tonnes of scaffolding

In total, 13,000 tonnes of scaffolding components will be used across the project – roughly the weight of six London Eyes. Gareth Dawson, senior project manager at Esh, said: “As the repair and repainting work within the Newcastle quayside scaffolding and underdeck scaffolding heads towards completion, we’re pleased to be moving into the next phase which focuses on the parapets and screen plates.” More than 350 repairs have already been made to the bridge’s under-arch on the Newcastle quayside, with the distinctive Hollybush Green paintwork now being applied. The £multi-million restoration is being funded by the UK Government, the North East Combined Authority, Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council. Overnight closures of the Tyne Bridge will be required later this year to allow the pedestrian tunnel works to go ahead.

Global scaffolding industry unites with launch of IASA

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Global scaffolding industry unites with launch of IASA
One of the most significant international developments in the scaffolding sector for half a century has been announced in Manchester this morning with the launch of the International Access and Scaffolding Association (IASA).

The announcement was made during the opening session of ScaffEx25, the UK’s largest scaffolding and access expo, which has attracted hundreds of delegates from around the world.

IASA brings together leading trade associations from the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Australia, the United States and Canada, creating a single international body to represent the scaffolding and access industry on the world stage for the first time.

Five pillars of action

The new association has pledged collective action in five key areas:

  • Improving the industry’s image – repositioning scaffolding as a professional, skilled, and essential trade.

  • Developing global talent – attracting, training and retaining the next generation of workers.

  • Driving innovation – advancing technology, sharing best practice and promoting sustainability.

  • Strengthening compliance – raising safety, quality and professional standards worldwide.

  • Standardising training – supporting international workforce mobility through consistent, high-quality training approaches.

A turning point

Wayne Connolly, Chair of IASA, said the creation of the body marked a step change for the sector.

“For the first time, the world’s leading scaffolding and access associations are working together with a united purpose: to champion our sector, elevate standards, and secure its rightful recognition as critical to the success of projects everywhere.”

IASA leaders stressed that the organisation will not seek to change laws or national regulations, but instead act as a hub for collaboration, sharing knowledge across borders, influencing policy at the international level, and providing a collective voice for the sector.

Global reach

The founding members believe the initiative will help improve safety, strengthen recognition of scaffolding as a profession, and open up opportunities for workforce mobility in an increasingly globalised construction market.

Outreach to other nations is now under way, with the aim of expanding membership and influence in the months ahead.

Further details about IASA, its five founding principles, and its initial members can be found at iasa.info

Scaffolding industry set for landmark gathering at ScaffEx25

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Scaffolding industry set for landmark gathering at ScaffEx25

The scaffolding industry’s only dedicated trade exhibition opens its doors in Manchester tomorrow, promising the biggest showcase of innovation the sector has ever seen.

Organisers have been busy preparing Manchester Central over the past few days, building exhibitor stands and setting up new interactive features. More than 2,200 visitors have already registered to attend, with over 900 tickets sold for the Scaffolding Excellence Awards.

The September showcase is set to be the largest gathering of the scaffolding and access industry in the UK, if not the world.

The Future of Scaffolding

 

This year’s theme is The Future of Scaffolding. The expo will be at least 15 times bigger than its 2024 debut, with complex stands, new pavilions and live demonstrations across two days.

Among the new attractions are the Training Pavilion, where CISRS-accredited centres will showcase their work; the Careers Hub, offering VR scaffold tours and career resources; and the exclusive Black Hat Lounge for invited industry leaders.

A fully booked Demo Zone will also provide hands-on demonstrations throughout the event.

The Demo Zone is expected to be one of the most popular features, with launches including Layher’s new SIM2FIELD XR app for 3D and AR scaffold planning, Pilosio’s FlyDeck suspended access system, Staht’s digital pull tester with app integration, and SMART Scaffolder’s AI-powered digital forms.

Other demonstrations will highlight the G-DECK platform access system and Leach’s BIGBEN SuperHoard, a recyclable PVC hoarding solution.

Conference and celebrations

Alongside the demonstrations, the conference programme will explore the future of business, safety, innovation, training and procurement. The two-day event also features exhibitor drinks, the NASC’s 80th anniversary celebration and the prestigious Scaffolding Excellence Awards on Friday evening.

ScaffEx25 is free to attend and doors open at 10am on Thursday 11 September.

Claim your free pass at: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-pass/

Avontus to unveil new ScaffoldIQ app at ScaffEx in Manchester

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Avontus to unveil new ScaffoldIQ app at ScaffEx in Manchester
A new digital tool designed to streamline scaffolding operations will be unveiled in Manchester later this week. Software firm Avontus is set to launch ScaffoldIQ at the ScaffEx trade show on Thursday. The app is aimed at tackling common challenges on construction sites such as miscommunication, misplaced paperwork, and delays. The platform offers features including digital handover forms, inspection tracking with photo uploads, and real-time scaffold status updates. Safety documents such as risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) can also be stored and accessed instantly. Workers on site will be able to scan QR codes to view details of a scaffold structure, while office staff can track progress through the app’s cloud-based system. Avontus says the tool is designed to speed up communication, cut down on errors, and improve compliance. The company will be demonstrating the software throughout the two-day event, with visitors invited to see it in action and enter a prize draw. ScaffEx, which runs in Manchester on 11–12 September, is one of the scaffolding industry’s largest exhibitions, showcasing new products, services and innovations from companies across the sector.

Kirtanlal Launches ScaffDeck, A Modular Suspended Access System

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Kirtanlal Launches ScaffDeck, A Modular Suspended Access System
Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has announced the launch of ScaffDeck®, a new modular suspended access system designed to improve safety and reduce labour time on projects. The system is aimed for suspended access service in construction, infrastructure, and industrial and offshore maintenance, where traditional scaffolding may not be practical or efficient. ScaffDeck is fully modular and can be lifted or lowered in sections of up to 100m2 using standard winches or chain blocks. It is built from Grade S700 high-strength steel and supported by Grade 100 marine-grade alloy chains. The platform can support loadings from Class 1 (0.75kN/m²) to Class 4 (3.0kN/m²), with an unsupported 2.5-metre cantilever capable of carrying a Class 3 (2.0kN/m²) load. A 5.0m x 5.0m suspension grid reduces the number of anchor points required. The system is erected from a fully boarded platform, minimising the need for operatives to work over open edges. Kirtanlal says this design reduces exposure to working at height by up to 90%. Platform surfaces are available in anti-slip composite or fire-resistant steel decking, supported by a sealed handrail and toe board system. ScaffDeck uses up to 75% fewer components than traditional hanging scaffolds and around 15% fewer than other modular alternatives, enabling faster assembly and easier transport. The decking boards are tested to R13 slip resistance to further improve safety and during working in wet conditions. The system has been internally tested and third party certified by SGS and TÜV Rheinland, and is compliant with BS EN1090, DIN 4420-3, and other relevant industry standards. Founded in Dubai in 2015, Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork has become a key supplier of access and formwork solutions across the Middle East and India. As part of its international rollout, the company has partnered with Leach’s, which will act as the exclusive distributor for the UK, offering ScaffDeck for both purchase and rental. The partnership brings together Kirtanlal’s product engineering with Leach’s established distribution network and expertise in the working-at-height sector. According to both companies, the collaboration will ensure contractors across the United Kingdom can access ScaffDeck with full product support and regional availability. ScaffDeck will be available via two distribution routes:
  • In the Middle East and India, on a contract or rental basis directly through Kirtanlal Scaffolding & Formwork.
  • In the UK, ScaffDeck can be purchased or hired exclusively through Leach’s, Kirtanlal’s official distribution partner. Kirtanlal is in discussions with other regional distribution partners for rolling out ScaffDeck to further global markets.
For more information, visit www.kirtanlal-sf.com. UK enquiries can be directed to [email protected].

Leach’s partners with DeWalt to launch tools tailored for scaffolders

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Leach’s partners with DeWalt to launch tools tailored for scaffolders
Leach’s has announced a new partnership with power tool giant DeWalt aimed at developing products designed specifically for the scaffolding sector. The collaboration will see exclusive scaffolder kits and impact wrenches tailored to industry needs made available through Leach’s. Both companies say the move is intended to deliver reliable, affordable and high-quality tools to scaffolders, addressing long-standing calls for equipment designed around the demands of the trade.

ScaffEx25 launch

The partnership will be formally highlighted at ScaffEx25, a two-day event taking place in Manchester on 11 and 12 September. DeWalt will share stand space with Leach’s, where both companies plan to demonstrate the new scaffolding-focused kits and impact wrenches. Organised by the NASC, ScaffEx has grown into one of the UK’s leading industry exhibitions, bringing together scaffolding contractors, suppliers and training providers under one roof. The event will feature product showcases, live demonstrations and opportunities for scaffolders to trial equipment first-hand. For many visitors, the Leach’s and DeWalt stand is expected to be a highlight, offering scaffolders a chance to see how one of the world’s biggest power tool brands is adapting its technology to meet the specific demands of their trade. David Bezant, Head of Marketing at Leach’s, said: “DeWalt are a household name in the UK and when they approached us with a plan to invest into the scaffolding market, we were blown away by their commitment to find solutions that actually work for scaffolders. We are excited to see where this partnership goes and how we can make the lives of scaffolders easier through great quality power tools.” While scaffolders have long relied on adapting general construction tools for their work, this marks one of the first occasions a major power tool brand has invested directly in creating scaffolding-specific solutions. Leach’s has positioned the partnership as part of its ongoing strategy to bring new technologies and solutions to the scaffolding sector, while DeWalt’s involvement signals growing recognition of scaffolding as a specialist trade in its own right.

ScaffEx25: Just One Week to Go Until the Industry’s Biggest Event Hits Manchester

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ScaffEx25: Just One Week to Go Until the Industry’s Biggest Event Hits Manchester
In just seven days, the scaffolding and access world will come together at Manchester Central for ScaffEx25. This year, it’s shaping up to be the biggest and most ambitious event the sector has ever seen. Taking place 11–12 September, the two-day exhibition and conference, hosted by NASC, brings together over 100 exhibitors, thousands of professionals, and a packed programme of launches, demos, and keynote sessions, all under one roof. The conference will be hosted by broadcasters Nina Hossain and Sophie Long. Now in its second year, the event has quickly become a key date in the scaffolding calendar. It’s a space not just for showcasing products, but for setting direction, building relationships, and tackling the challenges the sector is facing head-on. Across nine Demo Zone sessions, visitors can expect to see the launch of new safety guidance, digital tools, and cross-sector partnerships. Among the most anticipated announcements is TG30, the latest update in scaffolding technical guidance, and the formal introduction of a new International Federation of Scaffolding Associations. NASC says this will help deepen collaboration and knowledge-sharing across countries. Some of the biggest headlines are coming from closer to home. ScaffEx25 will also see the launch of RISE, NASC’s new industry charity, alongside a pledge to create 5,000 work placements for young people and those retraining into the sector. “ScaffEx25 isn’t just about what’s on display. It’s about where we’re heading as a sector,” said NASC CEO Clive Dickin. “There’s never been a more important time for scaffolding to show what it stands for: innovation, opportunity, and professionalism.” The move to Manchester has allowed for larger stands, live demonstrations, and the introduction of a dedicated Careers Hub to showcase new ways into the industry, including VR headset experiences for students.  The Scaffolding Excellence Awards, already a sell-out, will be hosted by a high-profile trio: Clare Balding, Alex Jones, and Leigh Francis. Adding to the energy of the evening will be other well-known celebrity guests, including Mike Tindall MBE and Shaun Ryder. “What makes this event special,” adds Dickin, “is that it’s built by the industry, for the industry. The conversations that happen here, between suppliers, contractors, engineers, manufacturers, and policymakers, don’t just stay in the room. They help shape how we work.” With just one week to go, NASC is encouraging the industry to secure their free place: Claim your free pass at: https://nasc.org.uk/product/scaffex25-conference-pass/
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