Get cracking with fracking, latest job vacancies, plus build a home for The Simpsons

Howard Chapman, Buildingtalk Editor, writes…

Get cracking with fracking is the message from the UK Prime Minister this week as an energy supply crisis looms.  After years of dithering, including by Ed Miliband when he was Energy Minister, we are facing the prospect of power shortages. So tax incentives to councils are part of a determined effort to develop solutions. However, the hysteria around nuclear energy seems to be transferring to fracking, so we can expect more opposition and more delays.

With the economy on the up we are already seeing skills shortages holding back growth, particularly in the construction industry. There are a rising number of vacancies right across the industry. Buildingtalk’s JOBsearch offers you a free opportunity to search through thousands of current construction and other built environment job vacancies. Take a look at what is out there, even if it is just to see the kind of salaries being offered for the work you are doing.

Our video of the week explains why the latest design and build of steel-framed modular and portable buildings from Wernick Buildings can be 50% faster to complete than traditional build, plus is a more sustainable and cost-effective option.

Finally, while we are on the latest modular buildings, Lego are launching a construction set so you can build a home for The Simpsons – how cool is that! Check out the photo of the house to see just how pleased Homer, Marge and the family are.

TOP 10 STORIES

Anti-condensation glass launched for use alongside Insulated Units

Resort bathroom collection to be launched at KBB 2014 includes new Hygiene

Construction software packages help forecast and manage cash flow

Commercial boiler system offers college an effective energy solution

Fire sprinkler pipe work protected with ProMinder technologies

Refrigeration and freezer solutions can reduce bills at supermarkets

Fire glazing technology protects against flames in public buildings

‘MEET the EXPERTS’ events scheduled across Britain and Ireland for 2014

Understanding rooflights and non-fragility: a new article published by NARM

Renewable energy can be generated through lakes and rivers

VIDEO OF THE WEEK

Steel-framed modular buildings for fast and sustainable construction

LATEST STORIES AND CASE STUDIES

Paints and coating from Dulux Trade applied at Victorian ballroom

Sustainable Drainage Systems fall under new legislation

Waterproofing roof solution provides safe surface for maintenance work

Changing Places Toilet desirable under Building Regulations Document M

Transitioning to Certified Installer status Webinars being hosted by FENSA

Laser cutting machine will create new jobs at steel company

Security solution P600 patented 6-pin cylinders fitted at hospital

Latest from FASTRAK CAD

TWEETS OF THE WEEK

Get cracking with fracking with tax boost/bribes to councils to speed development

Housing holds key to success at next election, says Labour

Winners of the European Copper in Architecture Awards

Lego to launch The Simpsons construction set

Strong house building to drive construction recovery amid signs of a skills shortage

Cash for repairs – UK Parliament hired out to pay for renovations

17% of all Nov construction contracts awarded in Cambridge & East of England

Construction contract prices could jump in 2014 as volumes of work and costs grow