Speakers at the annual Wright Hassall construction conference gather at the home of Wasps Rugby
Leamington law firm Wright Hassall’s annual construction conference, held this year at the Ricoh Arena, saw leading figures from a variety of sectors speak on the importance of embracing digital and cultural change in the construction industry in order to capitalise on growth across the country.
While each speaker admitted that the uncertainty surrounding Britain’s impending exit from the EU would no doubt have implications for the construction industry, it was stressed throughout that businesses need to focus on utilising technology to enable greater joined-up thinking and greater efficiency in order to progress.
Wright Hassall partner Philip Harris, who opened and closed the event, said: “It is important for the construction industry to be able to strike the balance between building to live, so profit is made and jobs are done in time and building for life, creating structures which will last.
“Technology is moving faster than ever but that doesn’t change the principle that things need to be done in good time and to the highest quality without compromising safety.
“I hope that today’s speakers have given the delegates an insight into how different sectors can work together to achieve this at a time when communication and construction technology is changing by the day.
“We had a great turnout and some interesting speakers.”
Speakers on the day included Jake Fellows, Major Project Director at ENGIE, who spoke about how the energy company has collaborated with construction firms on a large and small scale over the years.
Wayne Langford, Director at West Midlands Combined Universities, discussed the benefits construction firms can gain from linking in with universities who are looking to evolve and expand.
Dan Smurthwaite, UK BIM Team Leader at global construction firm GHD and Joe Malone, Principal at chartered surveyors Malone Associates, also spoke about how technology is shaping the planning and problem-solving process for firms.
Michael Hiscock, partner and construction specialist at Wright Hassall, commented: “Our combination of speakers gave our attendees a great overview of what is happening now in the construction industry and what the future may hold.
“It was a pleasure to hear what they had to say and to hear from our audience, who asked questions throughout to make this a collaborative and entertaining session.”
