Innovation of the Year (Contractor)

The award recognises contractors that have developed an outstanding new product, new service, new process, or other relevant breakthrough. As well as entrants displaying technical ingenuity, the judges will also consider exceptional inventiveness in terms of productivity, business systems, or the quality of service offered to clients.

GMI Construction Group
Project data  

GMI’s innovative young technology team recognised the urgent need for data cohesion to be at the forefront of our agenda. The business has heavily invested in technology over the last few years with £5m+ being spent at the SME on levelling up the business internally. This system has enabled us to remove ad-hoc analytics and analysis and has enabled us to store key information and data about our projects. The major benefit of the system is improved efficiencies across the business as the data visualisation helps project teams keep on top of any key issues that arise.

McGee
St John’s Wood Square Advanced Temporary Works Solution 

In the challenging context of the site, McGee, St John’s Wood Square Limited and RBG successfully revolutionised basement construction through a groundbreaking approach. Facing obstacles with previous methods, a unique barrette-based solution, using raking props embedded below the future basement was introduced. Advanced modelling ensured compliance, while McGee's developed specialist equipment to enable the methodology. This innovative concept accelerated the project by nine weeks, enabling concurrent superstructure construction and overcoming technical and programmatic challenges including de-risking the excavation by taking lorry movements off the critical path. We reduced costs and increased efficiency while showcasing a viable alternative to conventional practices.

Seaway7
Application of an Innovative Installation Technique for Suction Caissons of Offshore Wind Turbine Generators Supported by Jackets

A ground-breaking installation technique is presented where: • An innovative installation technique was implemented, • An innovative laboratory testing programme was developed to endorse the implementation of the technique, • Guidelines for installation were developed for implementation, • Successful field implementation led to the completion installation of the Seagreen OWF and full operability to provide clean energy to 1.6 million homes, • The successful publication of the outcomes of this innovation in the OSIG 2023 international conference. This will provide the platform for other developers and the wider industry to adopt this technique, and • Patent publication.

Tarmac
Highways Net Zero today - the art of the possible 

This project delivered against all targets, safely and to budget. Net Zero innovation from across Europe was utilised from the supply chain to demonstrate their combined decarbonisation capability available today. • Over 80% carbon reduction overall: The combined proven materials and technologies achieved an 84% reduction when compared to traditional surfacing methodology and materials. • CO2e saved using Carbonsink: 6 tonnes of CO2e were locked into each km of road using Carbonsink technology • Electric vehicles, plant and transport ensured a significant reduction in reliance on fossil fuels across all aspects of the works (planing, bond coat spraying, material

VKE Contractors
Angel Square - Reduced Vibration Drill Rig

In response to the identified risks of hand arm vibration syndrome and crystalline silica dust exposure during a structural alterations at Angel Square, we collaborated with Hilti to develop a bespoke rail-mounted drill rig which would minimize these risks . This innovative solution, combining various components adapted to suit our on site requirements, has resulted in a 70% reduction in HAVS exposure. Additionally, incorporating on-tool extraction to the rig we were further able to mitigate the risk of silica dust exposure. This proactive approach to worker safety underscores our commitment to eliminating and minimizing occupational risks and promoting workforce wellbeing.

VolkerStevin
Cantilevered Piling Frame

The New High Level Wear Footbridge project, driven by VolkerStevin, is a prime example of construction innovation, addressing unique challenges through a pioneering cantilevered piling frame. This solution not only navigated environmental, access, and historical constraints effectively but also demonstrated a scalable and sustainable approach to complex construction challenges. The project underscores the value of a culture that prioritizes innovation, collaboration, and quality processes. By sharing our insights and methodologies, we aim to inspire and contribute to the broader industry, showcasing exceptional performance that sets a new standard for construction projects.