The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has teamed up with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to deliver 5,000 scaffolding work experience placements across the UK in 2026.The joint initiative, announced at ScaffEx25 in Manchester, marks one of the largest efforts yet to tackle the construction industry’s growing skills shortage.
The scheme will see NASC member companies across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland offer short-term placements supported by local DWP offices. Roles will include both site-based and office positions — from scaffolding and estimating to administration — giving participants a broad view of the industry.
Rebekah Jardine
The programme aims to support jobseekers, veterans, rehabilitated offenders and career changers, offering them practical experience and a potential route into long-term employment.
Rebekah Jardine, Careers Executive at NASC, said: “This is a practical and immediate response to one of the construction sector’s most pressing issues. By launching this programme and calling on our members to get involved, we’re creating a clear and inclusive pathway into the industry — while strengthening its future workforce.”
NASC Members pledge early support
NASC is encouraging its members to pledge placements ahead of the scheme’s official rollout in 2026, and several firms have already signed up.
Lee Marley Scaffolding has pledged 10 work experience places focused on site visits.
“At Lee Marley Scaffolding, we recognise the importance of opening up access to our industry and inspiring the next generation of talent,” the company said.
“By supporting NASC’s Work Experience Pledge, we’re giving people valuable first-hand insight into what a career in scaffolding can offer.”
JMAC, one of the UK’s fastest-growing access companies, has also pledged 10 placements.
“We pride ourselves on working within communities, offering young people careers and building a sustainable workforce,” said a company spokesperson.
“We are proud to get involved in this initiative with NASC to drive further opportunities within the industry.”
The NASC–DWP collaboration is part of a wider push to promote scaffolding as a skilled, inclusive, and rewarding career path, ensuring the next generation is equipped to meet the sector’s future demands.
National Scaffolding Week 2025 has officially launched, shining a light on the people, skills and contribution of the scaffolding industry to the UK’s construction sector.
The week-long campaign, led by the Scaffolding Association, aims to recognise the essential role scaffolders play in keeping projects safe and on track, while promoting the professionalism and diversity that define the trade.
Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, said the initiative was about giving credit to a workforce that underpins almost every construction project in the country.
He said scaffolding “provides the access, safety and support that enable others to work effectively and without risk”, and praised the dedication of businesses and workers across the sector for maintaining high standards and a strong safety culture.
“This is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people and businesses who make our industry what it is – skilled, professional and essential,” Mr Candy said. “National Scaffolding Week is not just about our members, but about recognising and celebrating the entire scaffolding community.”
Themes for 2025
The 2025 campaign will run across five themed days, each highlighting a different part of the industry:
Day 1 – Why Scaffolding Matters: Emphasising scaffolding’s importance to the built environment and the people behind it.
Day 2 – Physical Health & Wellbeing: Encouraging safe, healthy practices on site, including hydration, sun safety and working in tough conditions.
Day 3 – Routes into Scaffolding: Exploring career pathways into the trade, from apprenticeships and school leavers to ex-offenders and armed forces veterans.
Day 4 – #ScaffStars: Recognising individuals who go above and beyond – on site, in offices or within their communities.
Day 5 – World Mental Health Day: Promoting mental health awareness and wellbeing across the scaffolding industry.
The Scaffolding Association is inviting companies and individuals to take part by sharing stories, photos and examples of good practice linked to the daily themes.
Supporters can also sign up as official NSW Supporters to help raise awareness and celebrate the vital role scaffolding plays in shaping the UK’s built environment.
Sean Pike on transforming an industry one system project at a time
Standing amid the impressive Layher UK display at ScaffEx25, Managing Director Sean Pike surveys what represents more than just exhibition scaffolding – it’s the physical manifestation of a 26-year mission to help transform British construction. As headline sponsor of the industry’s premier event, Layher UK’s commitment extends beyond marketing into a deeper vision of where the sector is heading.
When Pike joined Layher UK over two decades ago, system scaffolding was virtually invisible in the British market. Today, it stands as a cornerstone technology trusted on the nation’s most complex and iconic projects.
This transformation didn’t happen overnight – it’s the result of persistent vision, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering belief that construction could be safer, faster, and far more efficient.
From Revolutionary to Essential
Pike’s journey began with a seemingly impossible task: convincing an entire industry to abandon generations of scaffolding tradition. “When I first started my journey at Layher UK, my vision was simply to get system scaffolding accepted throughout the UK and not just in Scotland — to prove it had a place in a market dominated by tube and fitting,” he reflects. “It was seen as a European concept that just would not translate here.”
The resistance was formidable and deeply rooted. “The greatest barrier was tradition. Traditional tube and fitting scaffolding had been the only way for many generations, and contractors were naturally sceptical of change. There were misconceptions that system scaffolding was more expensive, less versatile, deskilling scaffolders or just ‘not British.'”
But Pike understood that overcoming this resistance required more than superior products, it demanded a complete reimagining of customer relationships. “Overcoming that meant more than selling equipment — it meant building trust, training operatives, and embedding support services,” he explains.
“In 10 years, I believe system will move towards being the default choice on most major projects, representing say 50% of the market, maybe more!”
His approach was methodical and industry-focused. As a long-time NASC member and Chair of the Hire, Sales and Manufacture Committee (now the Supplier Committee), Pike helped introduce the product audit system that became NASC Compliant Product, giving contractors confidence in safety and quality. Through the former ASITO committee, he also pushed for CISRS systems training to ensure the workforce was properly skilled.
“Those steps-built credibility,” he says. “Slowly, through action and proof, we shifted mindsets from resistance to acceptance.”
Proving the Concept Through Landmark Projects
The transformation from scepticism to acceptance didn’t happen overnight – it came through gradual wins and high-profile project successes that demonstrated system scaffolding’s capabilities. Each victory-built momentum for the next, creating an unstoppable tide of industry acceptance.
Drax power station emerged as a pivotal moment. “At Drax power station, for example, we showed with our client that outages could be reduced significantly, saving clients huge amounts of time and money,” Pike recalls. This success opened doors to other complex industrial applications.
“At Grangemouth, with tanks and sphere scaffolding, we proved system could handle complex industrial challenges. Those landmark projects became springboards for wider industrial acceptance.”
Pike’s strategy extended beyond heavy industry to embrace a broader market. “From there, we worked closely and initially with London and south-east based independent scaffolding companies and forward-thinking housebuilding scaffold companies, demonstrating how system scaffolding dovetailed perfectly with systemised timber frame construction and high-rise buildings.”
The momentum continued with increasingly high-profile wins. The London Olympics in 2012 positioned Layher as synonymous with world-class temporary structures, while the scaffolding solution on the world’s most photographed building the Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) in 2018 showcased the adaptability and engineering capability of Layher’s system scaffolding in heritage applications.
“Since then, we’ve consistently proven that system scaffolding isn’t just about square boxes — with bespoke design, technical knowledge, and on-site support, it adapts to heritage, infrastructure, and construction challenges alike,” Pike emphasises.
The key throughout was Pike’s holistic approach to customer support. “We didn’t just sell them kit — we trained their people, supported them technically, and rolled up our sleeves alongside them. Once they saw the speed, safety, and commercial benefits for themselves, the system sold itself. In effect, as per our core values, Service, Support, Solutions & Supply.”
Today’s Market and Tomorrow’s Opportunity
This patient approach has yielded impressive results. Pike estimates system scaffolding now represents approximately 25% of the UK market, though he notes it’s difficult to measure precisely. “The System scaffolding market is hotly contended and measuring it is not easy. Everyone will have their own take on this, as system roofs,stairs and loading bays are often standalone items, but come under the system banner.”
In certain sectors, industrial, infrastructure, and events – system scaffolding dominance is far more pronounced. Looking ahead, Pike sees dramatic growth potential. “Over the next decade, I expect that share to double,” he says. “In ten years, I believe system will move towards being the default choice on most major projects, representing say 50% of the market, maybe more.”
The drivers behind this growth are clear. “General acceptance, rising labour costs, skills shortages [sadly] and increased safety demands mean efficiency is no longer optional, and system scaffolding answers that need.”
Industry Leadership Through Collaboration
Pike’s vision extends beyond Layher UK’s commercial success to encompass industry-wide development. The company has committed to headline sponsorship of ScaffEx for the next few years, reflecting Pike’s broader industry philosophy. Rather than viewing competitors as threats, he sees collective benefit in raising industry standards.
“It represents our commitment not just to Layher, but to the entire scaffolding industry. ScaffEx is about raising standards, creating a platform for innovation, and showcasing the professionalism of the trade,” he explains.
This long-term commitment signals something deeper than marketing strategy. “By sponsoring it, we’re putting our weight behind collaboration and education, not just competition. The future of scaffolding relies on attracting new talent, embracing innovation, and driving professionalism.”
Addressing the Industry’s Greatest Challenge
Pike’s industry-first mentality extends naturally to addressing construction’s most pressing issue: the skills shortage. He sees system scaffolding as part of the solution to Britain’s workforce crisis, offering both immediate efficiency gains and longer-term career attractiveness.
“System scaffolding helps in two keyways,” he explains. “First, it requires fewer operatives and less manual handling, and with Layher lightweight less musculoskeletal disorders in later life, which means contractors can achieve more with smaller teams. Second, it makes scaffolding a more attractive career.”
The professionalisation aspect is crucial for long-term industry health. With CISRS training, operatives gain structured career pathways, while system scaffolding shifts focus on planning, precision, and engineering. “That makes it appealing to a wider pool of new entrants. At a time when labour is scarce, system scaffolding is part of the solution.
This evolution toward more skilled, technical work naturally leads to Pike’s vision of technology’s expanding role in the industry.
Embracing Digital Transformation
Pike envisions scaffolding’s future as fully integrated with digital construction methodologies. “It’s already happening, digital planning and BIM already reduce errors, save time, and improve safety.”
Layher UK is already implementing these digital solutions. “And this year we additionally launched SIM2Field for our products – a free app for our clients that combines 3D, VR & AR replacing paper as the way forward when constructing scaffolds,” Pike explains.
“I still believe in rolling up my sleeves and leading from the front alongside my team.”
But his vision extends beyond current capabilities to encompass broader industry transformation. “Automation will increasingly affect logistics and prefabrication, removing repetitive manual tasks. Sustainability is non-negotiable, our system already reduces waste compared to traditional methods, and our steel decks come with a sustainability certificate – but we must continue to innovate in materials, lifecycle efficiency, and solutions.”Leadership Evolution and Company Culture
As the industry has evolved, so has Pike’s leadership approach. The challenges of building market acceptance have been complemented by the more recent pressures of increased competition and market maturation.
“In the beginning, I was very hands-on — I had to be, we were a small team. It was about proving the product and the business. Over the years, I’ve learned that success comes from building a strong team.”
Increased competition has refined his strategic thinking rather than undermining it. “My style now is more about empowering people, creating a culture of resilience, and ensuring the right people are on the bus. Competition has sharpened us; it’s reinforced that price alone doesn’t win. Service, strategic partnerships, technical solutions, training, stockholding delivery and most importantly, trust are what set us apart.”
The company’s core message – Service, Support, Solutions & Supply – represents more than marketing rhetoric in Pike’s leadership philosophy. “Our 4 x S message is not just marketing; we actively deliver this continuously. And when challenges come, I still believe in rolling up my sleeves and leading from the front alongside my team.”Reflecting on Transformation and Legacy
Pike’s assessment of the transformation journey reflects measured optimism about continued progress. “It shows that transformation is possible in even the most traditional sectors. When I started, system scaffolding was almost invisible in some areas of the UK. Today, it’s trusted on the country’s largest, most complex, and most iconic projects.”
This evolution mirrors broader construction industry trends toward systematised, technology-enabled methods. “That shift mirrors what’s happening across British construction: smarter, safer, systemised methods are becoming the norm. For me, Layher’s journey shows that innovation can take root if you stick with it, be resilient, back it with the right people, and prove the benefits on the ground.”
As he contemplates his legacy, Pike’s focus remains on sustainable transformation rather than personal achievement. “This is not easy to answer without sounding egotistical. However, I suppose from a system scaffolding perspective, I would like my legacy to be that we raised the bar.”
The transformation he envisions extends beyond market share to fundamental industry perception. “That in some small way we changed the way the UK thinks about system scaffolding — from a temporary necessity to a professional, innovative, critical part of the construction process.”
Pike continues, “That we built not just a successful business, but contributed to building an industry that values training, compliance, safety, service and support – that we care.”
Through NASC committee involvement, CISRS system scaffolding training development, and the NASC’s compliant product standards introduction, Pike has contributed to professional frameworks benefiting all market participants. “I’d like people to look back and say: Layher didn’t just grow the system market, it helped transform the industry and helped my company grow.”The Road Ahead
As British construction faces ongoing challenges around productivity, safety, and skills, Pike’s 26-year mission to establish system scaffolding in the industry offers a roadmap for sustainable transformation.
The journey from revolutionary concept to essential technology demonstrates that even traditional sectors can embrace fundamental change when presented with compelling benefits and supported by persistent leadership.
The scaffolding industry Pike envisions for the next decade will continue to evolve be more efficient, and more attractive to new entrants – built on the foundation of systematic innovation he has championed throughout his career. His legacy lies not just in market transformation, but in proving that sustained vision and industry collaboration can bring about positive change.
Standing at ScaffEx, surrounded by the impressive display of system scaffolding technology, Pike represents more than a successful business leader.
He demonstrates the patient, persistent approach required to transform conventional thought, proof that with the right vision, dedication, teamwork and collaborative spirit, even the most traditional sectors can be changed for the better.
This article was originally published in Issue 27 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Scaffolders from Infrastructure Site Services Ltd and Final Seal – Shrink Wrap Specialists have completed another key stage of the Tyne Bridge restoration project.
After finishing the west up-and-over scaffold last week, the teams battled through poor weather to install the containment sheeting and apply the final shrink wrap seal — marking a major milestone in the project.
The structure is now fully enclosed and ready for blasting to begin. The achievement follows months of strengthening work on the bridge’s hangars and road deck, essential to support the extensive scaffolding installation.
With the west side now complete, attention turns to the east side, where crews will soon begin erecting scaffolding across the remaining section of the bridge — aiming to showcase the entire road deck fully scaffolded and contained.
Meanwhile, big changes are also on the horizon for the Newcastle Quayside scaffold, with updates expected soon.
(Photos courtesy of Infrastructure Site Services Ltd and Final Seal – Shrink Wrap Specialists.)
Construction businesses across the UK are being encouraged to open their doors to the public next spring, as registration officially opens today for Open Doors 2026.
The initiative, led by Build UK in partnership with the CITB and CSCS, invites companies to host behind-the-scenes tours of their sites, offices, manufacturing facilities and training centres between 23 and 28 March 2026.
Organisers hope to build on the success of this year’s event, which welcomed a record 7,000 visitors across more than 260 sites in March 2025.
The scheme aims to showcase the range of careers available in construction and help address the industry’s growing skills shortage. According to CITB’s latest Construction Workforce Outlook, around 50,000 additional workers will be needed each year to meet government targets for new housing, infrastructure and maintenance.
“A fantastic 88% of visitors to Open Doors 2025 said they’d be more likely to consider a career in construction after their visit,” said Tamsin Parkes, Project Manager at Build UK.
She added that the programme offers a powerful way for people to “see first-hand the wide range of roles available” and meet “the talented teams building the world around us.”
The CITB will once again participate, opening its National Construction College sites at Bircham Newton, Inchinnan, and Erith for pre-booked visits.
Deb Madden, Executive Director of Customer Engagement and Operations at CITB, said:
“Open Doors is a great opportunity for our future workforce to go behind the scenes of real construction sites and see the teamwork and collaboration that happens on site. We’re encouraging companies of all sizes, including SMEs, to take part and show the real face of our industry.”
Open Doors has become a flagship event for promoting construction careers to young people, parents, and career changers. Participating projects next year will range from housing developments to skyscrapers, with opportunities to see both on-site and off-site roles in action.
Construction firms can now sign up to host an event by visiting opendoors.construction
Turkish engineering firm URTIM has played a key role in the construction of what is being described as the world’s largest floating LNG tank.
The structure, built in the Arctic region, weighs 480,000 tonnes and covers an area the size of six football fields. It stands on 121 steel legs, each able to support loads ranging from 55 to 200 tonnes.
URTIM supplied a specially designed hybrid scaffolding system for the reinforced concrete works, developed over a three-year research and development programme. The company said the system allowed different phases of construction to overlap, saving time, labour, and costs.
The hybrid system made it possible to begin membrane application immediately after the first concrete pour without dismantling the scaffolding – a process that would normally require extensive reassembly.
URTIM also provided heavy-duty scaffolds, stair towers and auxiliary lifting systems throughout the build.
The LNG tank, which measures 330 metres in length, 153 metres in width and 151 metres in height, is the first of its kind and marks a significant milestone for the global energy and engineering sectors.
Serdar Urfalilar, Chairman of URTIM Formwork and Scaffolding Systems Inc., said the project highlighted the firm’s growing international reach.
He said URTIM had completed more than 4,000 projects across 70 countries in its 45-year history, working in sectors ranging from shipbuilding and refineries to transport infrastructure and healthcare facilities.
URTIM described the LNG tank project as a “source of pride” for its engineers and a demonstration of its ability to compete on a global scale.
The UK is bracing for Storm Amy, the first named storm of the season, with weather warnings covering the whole country.
The Met Office has issued amber and yellow alerts for damaging winds and heavy rain from Friday into Saturday, with the construction sector warned to expect widespread disruption.
Northern and western Scotland are expected to see the strongest winds, with gusts of 60–70mph widely forecast and the most exposed coastal and highland areas potentially reaching close to 100mph. The storm could cause power cuts, travel delays, damage to buildings and dangerous conditions on site.
Scaffolding contractors, in particular, are being urged to take extra care, as the risk of falling materials and unsafe structures is heightened by the extreme winds. Workers are also advised to plan for site closures and restricted access as conditions worsen.
Rail services in northern Scotland will be suspended from Friday evening, while speed restrictions will be introduced across other routes. Ferry crossings to Northern Ireland have been cancelled, and some schools in Northern Ireland are closing early due to safety concerns.
The storm has developed in the North Atlantic, fueled by the remnants of Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda, combined with a strong jet stream. Forecasters say heavy rain will spread eastwards on Friday, raising the risk of localised flooding, while Saturday will remain very windy with stormy conditions in northern Scotland.
Storm Amy’s track could shift further south, bringing stronger winds into Scotland’s Central Belt. If it tracks further north, the impacts may be less severe inland, although this currently appears unlikely.
Since 2015, storms have been officially named by the Met Office, Met Éireann and the Dutch weather service to raise public awareness of severe weather risks and ensure timely preparation.
The UK construction industry is facing renewed decline, according to the latest Glenigan Construction Index.
The report, which reviews project starts in the three months leading up to the end of September 2025, shows that overall activity has fallen sharply, reversing gains seen earlier in the year.
Work starting on projects worth less than £100m – regarded as the industry’s “underlying” activity – dropped 16% compared with the previous three months, and remained 15% down on the same period in 2024.
The residential building sector was hit hardest, with starts falling by more than a quarter compared to the previous quarter and down 24% from last year. Non-residential work also declined, dropping 9% compared to the preceding three months and 5% year-over-year.
There were some areas of growth. Office projects rose by almost a third on the previous quarter and more than doubled on the year. Notable schemes included a £86m revamp of Bush House, the former headquarters of the BBC World Service, and a £59m retrofit of 30 Finsbury Square in the City of London.
However, Glenigan’s economic director Allan Wilen said these gains were outweighed by sharp falls in other areas, including health and education.
He warned that residential work in particular was being held back by weak buyer confidence and delays linked to Building Safety Regulator approvals.
“Encouraging signs in the middle of the year have once more given way to further decline,” he said, adding that the industry would be looking to the government’s autumn budget for support.
At least 30 people have died and more than 200 others have been injured after scaffolding collapsed at a church in central Ethiopia, officials say.
The incident occurred early on Thursday at the Arerti Mariam church in Minjar Sheknora, approximately 70km (45 miles) from the capital, Addis Ababa, during an annual Orthodox Christian celebration of St. Mary.
Thousands of worshippers had gathered at the site when the structure gave way.
Local police inspector Ahmed Gebeyehu told BBC Amharic that the death toll could rise further, with victims ranging in age from 25 to 80.
Rescue operations are continuing, with local authorities reporting that some people remain trapped under the rubble.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and confusion as the scaffolding fell. “A large section of the church collapsed – the sound of the wooden structure giving way was loud and terrifying,” one attendee said.
Severely injured victims have been transferred to hospitals in Addis Ababa for treatment.
In a statement broadcast on state media, the Ethiopian government expressed “deep condolences for the damage caused by the collapse of the scaffolding” and said safety must be prioritised in construction projects.
Construction accidents are frequent in Ethiopia, where health and safety regulations are often poorly enforced.
Specialist formwork company Doka is playing a crucial role in one of Europe’s most challenging renewable energy projects, helping to raise a dam 1,700 metres up in the Austrian Alps under some of the continent’s harshest construction conditions.
The Austrian firm has been tasked with providing the technical solutions needed to raise the Wasserfallboden Dam near Kaprun by nine metres – work that must be carried out in sub-zero temperatures, winds exceeding 100 kilometres per hour, and with extraordinary logistical constraints.
The project forms part of the €500 million Limberg III pumped-storage power plant, which, when complete in 2027, will add 480 megawatts of flexible capacity to Austria’s electricity grid and provide vital energy storage for Europe’s renewable transition.
“This project highlights how Doka solutions contribute to the global energy transition,” says Harald Zulehner, Managing Director of Doka Austria. “Here in Austria’s high-alpine environment, our technology and teams enable safe, efficient and reliable execution – even under the toughest conditions.”
Precision engineering at altitude
Doka, which employs 9,000 people worldwide and operates in over 58 countries, has deployed several of its most advanced systems for the Limberg project. The company’s involvement extends from the dam raise itself to the underground cavern housing the new power plant machinery.
For the dam construction, Doka has supplied its D22 dam formwork system, which ensures safe load transfer during concrete pours – critical when working on a structure that will eventually reach nearly 129 metres in height. The Top 50 large-area formwork system enables precise shaping of the curved dam blocks, essential for an arch dam where millimetre-level accuracy is required.
Safety has been paramount given the extreme working environment. More than 700 running metres of Doka’s folding platform K have been installed to provide reliable and safe working conditions for construction crews operating at height in challenging weather. At the control centre, 22 tonnes of Ringlock modular scaffolding serve as stair towers and flexible working platforms for installation and assembly work.
Transforming construction timelines
Perhaps most significantly, Doka’s approach has dramatically accelerated what would traditionally be a slow and painstaking process. Through advanced 3D planning, pre-assembly of components before they reach the site, and optimised logistics tailored to the high-alpine location, the company has helped reduce concreting cycles to just three days for approximately 260 cubic metres.
This represents a considerable achievement. At 1,700 metres above sea level, every aspect of construction becomes more complex. Materials must be transported up winding mountain roads, equipment must function reliably in freezing conditions, and work schedules must adapt to rapidly changing weather patterns.
The scale of Doka’s involvement reflects the technical complexity of the project. VERBUND, Austria’s leading electricity company and the project’s client, specifically sought out the firm’s expertise in dam construction for this flagship energy infrastructure project.
Supporting Europe’s energy transition
The Wasserfallboden Dam raise will increase the reservoir’s storage capacity by 12.7 million cubic metres, bringing the total to nearly 94 million cubic metres. This expansion will provide approximately 30 gigawatt-hours of additional storage – enough to power around 6,000 homes for a year.
Pumped-storage power plants like Limberg III work by pumping water uphill to reservoirs during periods of excess renewable generation, then releasing it through turbines when demand peaks. They are crucial for stabilising electricity grids as countries transition away from fossil fuels.
The Kaprun power plant group, often dubbed the “battery of the Alps”, already includes two pumped-storage facilities dating from the 1950s and 2011. The new Limberg III facility, commissioned on 12 September, operates independently but draws from the same high-alpine reservoirs.
Doka’s work on the project demonstrates how specialist construction technology firms are becoming essential partners in the renewable energy transition. Without the ability to build safely and efficiently in extreme environments, major infrastructure projects like Limberg III would face significant delays or prove economically unviable.
A showcase for advanced construction
The project, being built by Austrian construction firm Swietelsky AG with overall management by PSKW ARGE Limberg III – a partnership between PORR and Marti Tunnel AG – represents one of Austria’s most significant energy infrastructure investments.
For Doka, founded over 150 years ago as part of the Umdasch Group, the Limberg project showcases the company’s evolution from a traditional formwork supplier to a provider of integrated construction solutions. The firm’s involvement spans the entire construction process, from initial 3D planning through to on-site technical support.
As European nations work to meet climate targets and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, projects like Limberg III are becoming increasingly valuable. The raised dam will be completed in 2027, with Doka’s systems in use throughout 2025 and 2026, helping to secure Austria’s position at the forefront of renewable energy storage technology.
The success of the project could provide a template for similar high-altitude renewable energy infrastructure across the Alps and other mountain ranges, where pumped storage offers one of the most effective solutions for balancing intermittent wind and solar generation.
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Drax power station emerged as a pivotal moment. “At Drax power station, for example, we showed with our client that outages could be reduced significantly, saving clients huge amounts of time and money,” Pike recalls. This success opened doors to other complex industrial applications.
“At Grangemouth, with tanks and sphere scaffolding, we proved system could handle complex industrial challenges. Those landmark projects became springboards for wider industrial acceptance.”
Pike’s strategy extended beyond heavy industry to embrace a broader market. “From there, we worked closely and initially with London and south-east based independent scaffolding companies and forward-thinking housebuilding scaffold companies, demonstrating how system scaffolding dovetailed perfectly with systemised timber frame construction and high-rise buildings.”
The momentum continued with increasingly high-profile wins. The London Olympics in 2012 positioned Layher as synonymous with world-class temporary structures, while the scaffolding solution on the world’s most photographed building the Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) in 2018 showcased the adaptability and engineering capability of Layher’s system scaffolding in heritage applications.
“Since then, we’ve consistently proven that system scaffolding isn’t just about square boxes — with bespoke design, technical knowledge, and on-site support, it adapts to heritage, infrastructure, and construction challenges alike,” Pike emphasises.
The key throughout was Pike’s holistic approach to customer support. “We didn’t just sell them kit — we trained their people, supported them technically, and rolled up our sleeves alongside them. Once they saw the speed, safety, and commercial benefits for themselves, the system sold itself. In effect, as per our core values, Service, Support, Solutions & Supply.”
Increased competition has refined his strategic thinking rather than undermining it. “My style now is more about empowering people, creating a culture of resilience, and ensuring the right people are on the bus. Competition has sharpened us; it’s reinforced that price alone doesn’t win. Service, strategic partnerships, technical solutions, training, stock holding delivery and most importantly, trust are what set us apart.”
The company’s core message – Service, Support, Solutions & Supply – represents more than marketing rhetoric in Pike’s leadership philosophy. “Our 4 x S message is not just marketing; we actively deliver this continuously. And when challenges come, I still believe in rolling up my sleeves and leading from the front alongside my team.”
Reflecting on Transformation and Legacy
Pike’s assessment of the transformation journey reflects measured optimism about continued progress. “It shows that transformation is possible in even the most traditional sectors. When I started, system scaffolding was almost invisible in some areas of the UK. Today, it’s trusted on the country’s largest, most complex, and most iconic projects.”
This evolution mirrors broader construction industry trends toward systematised, technology-enabled methods. “That shift mirrors what’s happening across British construction: smarter, safer, systemised methods are becoming the norm. For me, Layher’s journey shows that innovation can take root if you stick with it, be resilient, back it with the right people, and prove the benefits on the ground.”
As he contemplates his legacy, Pike’s focus remains on sustainable transformation rather than personal achievement. “This is not easy to answer without sounding egotistical. However, I suppose from a system scaffolding perspective, I would like my legacy to be that we raised the bar.”
The transformation he envisions extends beyond market share to fundamental industry perception. “That in some small way we changed the way the UK thinks about system scaffolding — from a temporary necessity to a professional, innovative, critical part of the construction process.”
Pike continues, “That we built not just a successful business, but contributed to building an industry that values training, compliance, safety, service and support – that we care.”
Through NASC committee involvement, CISRS system scaffolding training development, and the NASC’s compliant product standards introduction, Pike has contributed to professional frameworks benefiting all market participants. “I’d like people to look back and say: Layher didn’t just grow the system market, it helped transform the industry and helped my company grow.”
The Road Ahead
As British construction faces ongoing challenges around productivity, safety, and skills, Pike’s 26-year mission to establish system scaffolding in the industry offers a roadmap for sustainable transformation.
The journey from revolutionary concept to essential technology demonstrates that even traditional sectors can embrace fundamental change when presented with compelling benefits and supported by persistent leadership.
The scaffolding industry Pike envisions for the next decade will continue to evolve be more efficient, and more attractive to new entrants – built on the foundation of systematic innovation he has championed throughout his career. His legacy lies not just in market transformation, but in proving that sustained vision and industry collaboration can bring about positive change.
Standing at ScaffEx, surrounded by the impressive display of system scaffolding technology, Pike represents more than a successful business leader.
He demonstrates the patient, persistent approach required to transform conventional thought, proof that with the right vision, dedication, teamwork and collaborative spirit, even the most traditional sectors can be changed for the better.
This article was originally published in Issue 27 of the ScaffMag magazine. 
Open Doors has become a flagship event for promoting construction careers to young people, parents, and career changers. Participating projects next year will range from housing developments to skyscrapers, with opportunities to see both on-site and off-site roles in action.
Construction firms can now sign up to host an event by visiting opendoors.construction 
Open Doors has become a flagship event for promoting construction careers to young people, parents, and career changers. Participating projects next year will range from housing developments to skyscrapers, with opportunities to see both on-site and off-site roles in action.
Construction firms can now sign up to host an event by visiting opendoors.construction 
Safety has been paramount given the extreme working environment. More than 700 running metres of Doka’s folding platform K have been installed to provide reliable and safe working conditions for construction crews operating at height in challenging weather. At the control centre, 22 tonnes of Ringlock modular scaffolding serve as stair towers and flexible working platforms for installation and assembly work.
Pumped-storage power plants like Limberg III work by pumping water uphill to reservoirs during periods of excess renewable generation, then releasing it through turbines when demand peaks. They are crucial for stabilising electricity grids as countries transition away from fossil fuels.
The Kaprun power plant group, often dubbed the “battery of the Alps”, already includes two pumped-storage facilities dating from the 1950s and 2011. The new Limberg III facility, commissioned on 12 September, operates independently but draws from the same high-alpine reservoirs.
Doka’s work on the project demonstrates how specialist construction technology firms are becoming essential partners in the renewable energy transition. Without the ability to build safely and efficiently in extreme environments, major infrastructure projects like Limberg III would face significant delays or prove economically unviable.
Safety has been paramount given the extreme working environment. More than 700 running metres of Doka’s folding platform K have been installed to provide reliable and safe working conditions for construction crews operating at height in challenging weather. At the control centre, 22 tonnes of Ringlock modular scaffolding serve as stair towers and flexible working platforms for installation and assembly work.
Pumped-storage power plants like Limberg III work by pumping water uphill to reservoirs during periods of excess renewable generation, then releasing it through turbines when demand peaks. They are crucial for stabilising electricity grids as countries transition away from fossil fuels.
The Kaprun power plant group, often dubbed the “battery of the Alps”, already includes two pumped-storage facilities dating from the 1950s and 2011. The new Limberg III facility, commissioned on 12 September, operates independently but draws from the same high-alpine reservoirs.
Doka’s work on the project demonstrates how specialist construction technology firms are becoming essential partners in the renewable energy transition. Without the ability to build safely and efficiently in extreme environments, major infrastructure projects like Limberg III would face significant delays or prove economically unviable.
