The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has announced an exciting partnership with City & Guilds Training, unlocking over £1 million in funding for scaffolding training through Skills Bootcamps. Open to both members and non-members, this initiative aims to upskill the workforce and strengthen the scaffolding industry.Backed by the Department for Education as part of the Government’s Lifetime Skills Guarantee, the program is designed to tackle critical skills shortages in the scaffolding sector, ensuring the industry is equipped to meet growing demand.The Skills Bootcamps, which include Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) accredited courses, cover Part 1 & 2 scaffolding training, the Advanced Scaffolder Course, and programs for new entrants. Designed to equip individuals with job-ready skills in high-demand sectors, these flexible training options reflect NASC’s commitment to fostering growth and opportunity in the industry.Funding for the initiative can cover 70-90% of the approved training costs and is accessible to both NASC members and non-members.By making this funding widely available, the NASC aims to promote inclusivity and encourage participation from across the scaffolding and access industry.Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, emphasised the importance of the program: “We strongly support the Skills Bootcamps initiative as an excellent way to upskill talent in the scaffolding and access sector. It is well recognised that we face significant skills shortages across the industry, and this considerable funding will hopefully play a major part in providing new employment opportunities. Collaborating with City & Guilds Training helps to broaden the availability of training and is part of our commitment to a truly inclusive approach to training across the sector.”The initiative is part of the wider “Skills for Life” program, which encourages lifelong learning and provides individuals with the qualifications needed to secure meaningful employment. Employers can also combine this funding with other resources, such as the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) grants, to maximise support.Those interested in the Skills Bootcamps for scaffolding training can find more details and register potential learners via the City & Guilds Training website. Completing the registration form will guide applicants to the appropriate CISRS centre to begin their training journey.For more information, visit City & Guilds Skills Bootcamps for Scaffolding Training.
TRAD UK has more than tripled its original charity fundraising target after overwhelming support from employees and clients helped the company surpass its initial goal in record time. The scaffolding and access specialist is raising funds for Duchenne UK, a cause close to home for TRAD UK.Initially aiming to raise £7,000, the company has already brought in more than £20,000 with four months of fundraising left before the campaign concludes in March 2025. The success has prompted TRAD to raise its target to £30,000, which could significantly aid Duchenne UK’s Grant 4 Scheme. This initiative supports research into gene therapies and treatments for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), a progressive condition that primarily affects boys and is often diagnosed in early childhood.
A Personal Connection
For Danielle and Liam Ackers, whose son Thomas has DMD, the campaign is deeply personal.“We are absolutely blown away with the support we’ve had from our colleagues and clients at TRAD,” said Danielle Ackers. “The money we raise will go towards researching innovative treatments that could make a real difference for children like Thomas. Reaching £30,000 would fund vital studies and clinical trials, offering hope for the future.”The company’s efforts include organised events and ongoing activities across its depots, fostering a culture of generosity and teamwork.TRAD UK Managing Director Colin Dobson praised the enthusiasm of his team, highlighting the company’s longstanding commitment to charity work. “Raising money for charity is an important part of our culture at TRAD UK,” Dobson said. “It’s incredible to see how everyone comes together to support these initiatives. We never put pressure on our staff to take part, but their willingness and team spirit are evident across the business. I’m excited to see what we can achieve by the end of the year.”
Skydiving for a Cause
The campaign will culminate in March 2025, with a group of TRAD employees set to take part in a skydiving challenge, further underlining their dedication to the cause.For the Ackers family, the progress being made in both fundraising and research offers hope.“Thomas is doing so well, and we are very positive about his future,” said Liam Ackers. “The therapies and approaches that TRAD is helping to fund could be life-changing. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone at TRAD and beyond for their support.”
The scaffolding industry has hit a significant milestone, with the UK’s top 10 companies surpassing £1 billion in combined turnover for the first time. The CN Specialists Index for 2024 reveals that the sector’s revenue climbed 18% to an impressive £1.13 billion, up from £957.9 million last year.It’s not just revenue that’s up—profitability has improved too, with all 10 companies recording a profit. The median pre-tax margin rose 7.6%, compared with 5% in 2023. But while growth dominated the headlines, the rankings saw significant changes at the top and bottom.
Altrad UK Tops the List
Leading the way is Altrad UK, which surged to the number one spot after generating £352.1 million in revenue, up 46% from the previous year. This growth was driven by strategic acquisitions, including Sparrows and Endel, strengthening the company’s client relationships and boosting its market presence.However, Altrad’s pre-tax margin slipped slightly, dropping from 8.4% to 8%. John Walsh, CEO for Altrad UK, Ireland, and Nordics, highlighted the sector’s biggest challenge: finding skilled workers. “The main limitation for future growth is finding the right quality and quantity of people,” he said.
Big Changes in the Top 10
Last year’s leader, Kaefer, moved to second place despite growing its revenue by 23% to £317.9 million. The company also saw its pre-tax margin more than double, rising from 1.2% to 2.5%, thanks to improved cost control.Lyndon SGB held firm in third place, reporting a 9% increase in turnover to £152 million. The company has yet to file its latest accounts, but it remains a key player in the industry.Meanwhile, TRAD Group, in fourth, experienced mixed fortunes. While its revenue dropped 24% to £73.4 million, the company managed to turn a £500,000 loss into a £2.8 million profit by tightening its cost controls.
Standout Performers
Several firms posted standout results. Alltask, which stayed in sixth place, delivered an exceptional 49% rise in revenue to £44.9 million, with pre-tax profit soaring to £6.5 million. Its 14.4% margin was among the highest in the rankings.GKR Scaffolding climbed from ninth to eighth, with a 21% increase in turnover to £31.3 million. The Kent-based firm tripled its pre-tax profit to £3.4 million, although it flagged challenges such as higher shipping costs and the ongoing labour shortage.The only new entrant this year, Palmers Scaffolding, came in at ninth place. The Chester-based company recorded a 43% rise in revenue to £23.8 million, with a solid pre-tax margin of 8.5%.Not every firm saw growth. PHD Modular Access dropped to tenth place after revenue fell by 23% to £22.9 million. Its pre-tax profit also slipped slightly to £1.5 million, reflecting a tough year for the company.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the growth in revenue and profits, the scaffolding sector continues to grapple with challenges. Rising interest rates, tighter budgets, and project delays are putting pressure on contractors. However, many firms are adapting by streamlining operations and looking for new opportunities.NASC CEO, Clive DickinSpeaking to Scaffmag, Clive Dickin, Chief Executive of NASC, said: “NASC recognises the scaffolding industry’s remarkable growth, with the top 10 companies surpassing £1 billion in combined turnover, which is reflective of the entire sector including NASC members who often are micro businesses. However, the sector’s success is overshadowed by critical challenges in talent acquisition, as highlighted by leading industry figures. Resolving these issues requires collaboration and innovation to attract and retain skilled workers of which NASC is providing solutions and lobbying in HM Government for reform. At the same time, the UK government’s approach to National Insurance taxation remains a disincentive to business growth, further complicating the industry’s efforts to secure the workforce needed to sustain this momentum.”
Mark Roach, Finance Director at George Roberts (North West) Ltd., has been named Finance Director of the Year in the £50–£120 million turnover category at the North West Regional FD Awards.
The awards at Liverpool’s Crowne Plaza on 14 November recognise the region’s top financial directors for their contributions to business growth and economic development. Mark stood out as one of the winners from the eight different categories among 28 finalists selected from 285 nominees.
Judges praised Mark’s leadership and the strategic foresight of George Roberts, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to quality and reliability.
Speaking about the accolade, Mark said: “This award reflects the hard work of the entire team at George Roberts. Together, we’ve redefined the standard for delivering reliable scaffolding solutions, ensuring peace of mind for our customers.”
Values-Driven Success
George Roberts attributes its success to its guiding principles, known as CARES: Collaborative, Adaptable, Reliable, Experts, and Solutions-focused.
These values underpin the company’s operations, shaping its relationships with employees, customers, and the wider community.
Employee Ownership Model Lauded
A key factor in Mark’s win was the establishment of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) at George Roberts earlier this year. Judges noted the EOT as a progressive step, ensuring long-term stability and succession planning for the business.
The company, which operates from a 17-acre Super Depot and supplies NASC-approved scaffolding products, continues to expand globally. It remains focused on providing reliable, high-quality solutions to customers worldwide.
The award highlights George Roberts’ continued position as a leading firm in the scaffolding industry. Mark’s recognition is seen as a reflection of the company’s collective effort and forward-thinking strategy.
With this latest accolade, George Roberts continues to build on its reputation for excellence and innovation.
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its global presence through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Malaysian Occupational Scaffolding Association (MOSA).The landmark agreement was formalised following the NASC’s Annual General Meeting in Belfast, marking a key milestone in international collaboration for the scaffolding industry.The MOU reflects the close ties between the two organisations, both renowned for their leadership and commitment to advancing scaffolding standards. The partnership aims to promote mutual expertise, share resources, and champion best practices in scaffolding, access, and rigging.Speaking about the agreement, NASC CEO Clive Dickin highlighted its potential to drive innovation and elevate industry standards worldwide. “This partnership with MOSA, like our other MOUs, fosters a harmonious exchange of expertise and resources. It is a testament to both organisations’ shared vision of advancing the scaffolding industry to new heights.”The agreement outlines plans for joint initiatives to improve safety, enhance training opportunities, and boost global recognition of industry standards. The collaboration aligns with NASC’s reputation as a pioneer in scaffolding standard-setting and MOSA’s respected position as a leader in Malaysia.This is the latest in a series of international agreements signed by NASC over the past year, underscoring its commitment to global cooperation and the development of the scaffolding profession.The signing marks the beginning of a new chapter for the scaffolding sector, as NASC and MOSA work together to shape a safer, more efficient, and innovative future. Both organisations are inviting stakeholders and industry professionals to join their efforts in elevating the global scaffolding industry.This agreement not only enhances the connection between two prominent scaffolding bodies but also highlights the importance of international partnerships in achieving progress and excellence in scaffolding.
ScaffMag discovers the story behind one of the UK’s most ambitious scaffolding projects—a transformative refurbishment of the iconic former Halifax Building Society’s head office. Crossway Scaffolding has redefined what’s possible in the scaffolding industry with a blend of cutting-edge engineering, collaboration, and a deep respect for heritage.The former Halifax Building Society’s head office, is a striking example of 1970s architectural ambition, which stands as a landmark in the cityscape. Initially built in 1974 and opened by the Queen, this listed building was one of the most advanced constructions of its time.
The building, whose design won a Royal Institute of British Architect’s Award, featured a futuristic, cantilevered structure supported by deep steel beams and concrete stair towers. The design gave the illusion of the building “hanging in mid-air,” a feature that still draws admiration today.
Beneath its bold exterior lies a fascinating history. With basements extending nearly 10 meters underground, the building originally housed a deed retrieval system that could deliver documents directly to desks at the press of a button—an innovation unheard of in its time.
Fast forward 50 years, and this architectural marvel required modernisation. It prompted a near to £100 million refurbishment to preserve its historical significance, while preparing it for a new chapter.
The Challenge: Balancing History and Modernity
Taking on a project of this scale and complexity was no small feat. The head office needed a complete overhaul of its glazing system, with glass panels weighing up to half a tonne each. Each panel had to be removed and replaced delicately without compromising the building’s structural integrity or disrupting its iconic appearance.
“The building itself posed unique challenges,” explained Alan Slater, Head of Technical & Product Support at TRAD UK. “The scaffold couldn’t be tied into the structure until it reached circa the 20 metre high mark, meaning everything below had to be buttressed. With roads and public walkways adjacent, this required precise engineering and innovative solutions.”
Crossway Scaffolding installed 20,000 square meters of Plettac Metrix System Scaffold, a cutting-edge system selected for its efficiency and adaptability.
In partnership with TRAD UK, the company invested over £1 million in scaffolding materials. This was Crossway’s largest project using the Plettac Metrix system, and its success left a lasting impression.
Crossway’s Contract Manager Luke Schofield highlighted the system’s advantages: “One of our most seasoned scaffolders, who had been using tube and fitting for 25 years, didn’t want to go back after working with this system. The precision and speed it offers are game-changers.”
Innovative Redesigns
The project demanded creativity and precision, starting with a reworking of the initial designs. Crossway was initially provided with 73 scaffold drawings but ultimately required 174 due to the complexity of the structure.
Working in partnership with Manchester-based Buckley Design Solutions to redesign key elements, utilising advanced bracing techniques, which saved both time and resources.
The installation of a 350-meter NIKO rail system around the building was another standout feature. This system supported the weight of the massive glass panels, which were transported along a 2.5-meter-wide scaffold walkway to hoist locations. The operation was seamless, aided by meticulous planning and the use of innovative equipment described as “sucker machines” for the glass.
Supporting the Community
Crossway’s commitment to social value was evident throughout the project. Five apprentices worked on-site, three of whom lived within 15 minutes of the project. This not only fostered local employment but also provided invaluable hands-on experience.
“This is the kind of project that shapes careers,” said Steve Fearnehough, Managing Director at Crossway. “Our apprentices gained exposure to some of the most advanced scaffolding techniques and learned to adapt to the unique challenges of a listed building.”
Collaboration at the Core
The partnership between Crossway and TRAD UK was a cornerstone of the project’s success. With regular site visits and constant communication, both companies worked together to address challenges and ensure smooth progress.
“We’ve been working with Crossway for over 25 years,” said Alan Slater, Head of Technical & Product Support at TRAD UK. “The mutual trust and open dialogue between our teams made all the difference. This level of collaboration and partnership is what complex projects like this need.”
The proximity of Crossway’s base and TRAD UK’s Leeds depot, just 5 miles and 20 miles from the site respectively, also played a vital role in minimising environmental impact. “Every delivery was carefully coordinated,” Stewart Quinn, TRAD UK’s Regional Director added. “This approach allowed us to collectively reduce our carbon footprint while keeping the project on schedule.”
Environmental Responsibility: A Greener Future
Crossway implemented Just-In-Time deliveries, reducing transport emissions and storage demands. Additionally, using steel decks instead of traditional timber further highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability.
As the former Halifax Building Society’s head office undergoes its transformation, the project stands as a testament to Crossway Scaffolding’s ingenuity and dedication. By blending advanced engineering, innovative design, and a commitment to people and the planet, Crossway has helped in the restoration of an architectural icon and set a new benchmark for scaffolding excellence.
This scaffolding excellence has also recently been recognised `by the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), with the project being a finalist in the Project of the Year (Major) category at their recent annual awards ceremony in Belfast, which is a true testament to the dedication of all involved, in making such a complex and innovative scheme work.
“This was a monumental task, but our team rose to the occasion,” said Steve Fearnehough. “It’s a proud moment for us to see this project come together so beautifully.”
With the external refurbishment nearing completion, this isn’t just another scaffolding job—it’s a masterclass in innovation, collaboration, and community-focused construction, a legacy that will endure for years to come.
A dazzling Christmas light display at the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) has brought festive cheer to central Bristol, raising vital funds for The Grand Appeal on behalf of Bristol Children’s Hospital.
Organised by scaffolding contractors Shield Services Group, the lights adorn the historic former BRI building and were illuminated during a special event.
Former Premier League player and manager Ian Holloway joined the celebrations, switching on the lights to the delight of onlookers, including children from the hospital directly opposite.
The event is part of the “Shine Bright for Bristol Children’s Hospital” campaign, which supports the hospital’s innovative Patient Hotel. This groundbreaking facility, the first of its kind in the UK, offers families a comforting “home away from home” just moments from the hospital.
With therapy spaces and practical support services, it provides vital emotional and logistical help to families navigating their children’s hospital care.
So far, the campaign has raised an impressive £1,950, just shy of its £2,000 target, thanks to the generosity of over 70 supporters.
Organisers hope the display will inspire further donations to help keep families together and ensure children receive the care they need.
Ian Holloway said: “It’s an honour to be part of something so meaningful. This is what Christmas is all about – bringing light and hope to families who need it most.”
Luke House Shield Services Group Chairman expressed gratitude to all involved: “We’re thrilled to contribute to such an amazing cause. The lights are not just a festive gesture; they’re a beacon of hope for the families and children in the hospital.”
To support the campaign and help transform the lives of families at Bristol Children’s Hospital, donations can be made via the JustGiving page: Shine Bright for Bristol Children’s Hospital.
The Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning as Storm Darragh prepares to batter parts of the UK with gusts of up to 90mph.Coastal areas in Wales and the southwest of England are in the firing line, with the warning in place from 3 am to 11 am on Saturday.The storm is expected to bring “damaging winds” that could cause major disruption to transport, power supplies, and construction sites. Scaffolding firms in the affected regions are being urged to take extra precautions to secure structures and prioritise safety.
Danger to Life and Property
According to the Met Office, the intense winds pose a “danger to life” due to flying debris, while large waves are expected to hammer exposed coastlines. Gusts could be particularly hazardous in areas like the Bristol Channel, where funnelling winds may intensify the storm’s impact.Irish forecasters at Met Éireann have also issued a red wind warning for parts of the west coast of Ireland, including Galway, Mayo, and Donegal, as the storm barrels across the Irish Sea overnight.
Amber and Yellow Warnings Add to Chaos
Elsewhere, amber warnings remain in place for much of Wales, Northern Ireland, and parts of Scotland, with yellow alerts covering a wider area. Heavy rain is also forecast for some regions, compounding the risk of flooding and site disruptions.Storm Darragh arrives just weeks after Storm Bert, which caused chaos in several parts of the UK. For those in the scaffolding trade, this means another challenging period as sites brace for potentially severe weather conditions.
How to Prepare
For scaffolding contractors, ensuring the safety of workers and the public is paramount. Check that all scaffolds are properly tied and braced, remove any loose materials or tools from structures.The Met Office advises that “extremely strong winds will ease from late morning, but it will remain very windy into the evening.” If work is planned on exposed sites, it may be worth considering a delay until conditions improve.
Stay Safe and Stay Prepared
Storm Darragh serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of thorough preparation. For those in the scaffolding industry, it’s critical to double down on safety measures to prevent accidents and damage during these challenging conditions.Keep an eye on the latest forecasts, follow safety guidance, and, above all, stay safe.
Work on the iconic Tyne Bridge has taken a significant step forward as scaffolding is set to span the River Tyne in the next phase of its comprehensive restoration project.The ambitious operation follows the successful installation of scaffolding adjacent to the Newcastle tower. Now, Esh Construction, in collaboration with specialist contractor Infrastructure Site Solutions (ISS), is moving ahead with an underdeck scaffold structure that will stretch from the Newcastle tower to its counterpart on the Gateshead side, 84 feet above the river.This latest phase will see operatives working underneath the bridge, securely fastened with safety harnesses and supported by a safety boat stationed below for emergency rescues. The 100-metre-long by 11-metre-wide scaffold will allow for detailed inspections beneath the bridge, paving the way for subsequent cleaning, grit blasting, and repainting. To ensure safety and minimise environmental impact, the structure will be enclosed in protective sheeting throughout the work.Gareth Dawson, Project Manager for Esh Construction, highlighted the progress made:“A programme resequencing exercise has allowed the underdeck scaffolding to be actioned earlier than originally planned. The change in programme will provide efficiencies throughout the project given the scale of the repair and restoration work to be delivered – this scheme is far more than ‘just a lick of paint.’”The restoration, commissioned by Newcastle and Gateshead councils, is a monumental undertaking. Over four years, it will use more than 180 miles of scaffolding tubes—enough to stretch from Newcastle to Dundee—and over 13,000 tonnes of scaffolding components, equivalent to the weight of six London Eyes. The work is divided into 20 phases due to the bridge’s weight restrictions.Cllr Dr Juna Staithan, Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for Climate Change and Transport, expressed her enthusiasm for the project:“I am really delighted with the progress on site as we restore this icon to its former glory. Everyone involved is hugely proud and passionate to be part of this major project to preserve this much-loved icon for future generations.”
Major Repairs and a Historic Paint Job
Beyond the scaffolding, restoration work is advancing inside the bridge’s deck void, where three of the 36 steel hangers supporting the carriageway are set to undergo strengthening. Repairs also include steel, concrete, stonework, and masonry restoration, along with drainage improvements, deck waterproofing, and parapet protection.One of the restoration’s crowning achievements will be the bridge’s new coat of paint in the historic ‘Hollybush’ shade, chosen for its resemblance to the original colour. The new paint system is designed for durability and will protect the bridge for up to 30 years against the harsh conditions of the Tyne Valley gorge.The restoration hit a major milestone in October when scaffolding around the Gateshead tower was dismantled, revealing the first section of blasted, repaired, and repainted steel.With over 1,000 repairs planned, the Tyne Bridge restoration is as much about preserving history as it is about modernising infrastructure. As one of the North East’s most recognisable landmarks, the bridge will continue to be a symbol of regional pride for generations to come.
PERI has been named winner of the Product of the Year award at the Scaffolding Excellence Awards, hosted by the NASC in Belfast.The company received the accolade for its PERI UP Cladding system, which has been recognised for its innovation and versatility since its launch in the UK earlier this year.PERI competed against two other finalists in the category, with judges praising the cladding system’s design and its potential to transform scaffolding practices.The PERI UP Cladding system has been widely adopted for its flexibility, serving as a protective enclosure, temporary roofing system, and hoarding for building sites.Its lightweight panels, fast assembly process, and adaptability have made it popular among contractors, while its safety features, including dust and noise containment, have been welcomed by those working in public-facing projects.
A Standout Exhibit at ScaffEx24
PERI’s success at the awards coincided with a strong showing at ScaffEx24, the NASC’s first-ever conference and exhibition.The company’s 24-square-metre stand, whichwas one of the largest at the event, showcased a range of products, including the award-winning PERI UP Cladding system. The display featured a custom-built viewing deck, allowing attendees to experience the system up close.Charles Stratford, Business Development Manager for PERI UP, described the event as a major success.“ScaffEx24 was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and showcase the capabilities of our scaffolding systems. Winning Product of the Year was a highlight and reinforces the benefits our cladding system offers to the industry.”
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency
The PERI UP Cladding system is designed to improve safety for scaffolders, contractors, and the public. It helps reduce the risks associated with falling debris and dust pollution while containing noise from construction sites.Its seamless integration with PERI scaffolding systems has made it a valuable addition to construction and public event projects across the UK.The Product of the Year award highlights PERI’s commitment to innovation in the scaffolding sector.“Our system provides scaffolding contractors with more choices, increased efficiency, and unparalleled adaptability. It’s an honour to be recognised for these contributions,” Stratford added.
