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Acoustic professionals shared best practice in sound insulation testing at a workshop organised by the Association of Noise Consultants (ANC).

Almost 100 testers from ANC member companies attended the event, held in Birmingham.

The ANC launched their Approved Document E Registration Scheme in 2003 to provide independent verification of pre-completion sound insulation testing.

Since then the scheme has gone from strength-to-strength, recording over 450,000 tests over the years.

Latest figures reveal a pass rate of 97.4 per cent from approximately 30,000 tests carried out in 2018.

Part of this success stems from the commitment of ANC testers to share experiences gained across the industry.

Dan Saunders, Chairman of the ANC, said: “What makes the difference with the Association’s registration scheme is the fact that it enables the building industry to tap into the expertise of 300 registered testers, all qualified in acoustics, who are able to deliver the Approved Document E testing nationwide.

“This means the testing service comes with reassurance of consultancy advice from member firms, backed up by the know-how of some of the most highly qualified and experienced acoustic experts in the country.

“The workshop provided a very useful opportunity to continue to drive forward best practice and keep the scheme in pole position within the housebuilding sector.

“The number of successful projects and the results achieved to date is testimony to the scheme’s ability to deliver compliance in this important area.

“This is particularly important when you consider these tests come at the end of the construction phase and getting it wrong and then having to address the issue can be a very costly process.”

To find out more about the ANC and search for members registered to carry out pre-completion testing please visit www.association-of-noise-consultants.co.uk/members-search

A video from the workshop can be found at https://youtu.be/e7h71m3jvYE

As part of a safe system of work, lock out tag out should be employed to ensure hazardous energy has been safely isolated. When conducting maintenance, repairs or cleaning work on any machinery and equipment, a safe procedure should be in place to ensure stored energy has been safely dispelled, and re-energisation does not accidentally occur. Here we have highlighted the essentials for a lock out tag out procedure.

What is Lock Out Tag Out

When correctly implemented and followed, a lock out tag out procedure ensures that machinery or equipment is completely shut off, stored energy safely isolated and re-energisation cannot occur accidentally. Recognised as a safety standard, lock out tag out is widely implemented as part of safety regulations and used across a variety of machinery and equipment.

Stages of Lock Out Tag Out

The lock out tag out procedure begins with the preparation of the equipment and the area. Workers should be made aware a lock out procedure is about to take place to ensure they don’t accidentally attempt to restart the equipment. The equipment is then shut down using the manufacturers procedure.

After shut down has occurred, all energy sources should now be isolated and devices applied to the equipment. At this point lock out devices can be implemented by utilising padlocks from Reece Safety and identifier tags. Stored energy should now be isolated by blocking moving parts and inspecting for any remaining movement.

The procedure now requires the try out phase, whereby you safely attempt to restart the equipment. If the procedure has been implemented correctly this should not occur. After safely shutting back down, you may now complete the desired work. After work has complete, the lock out devices can be removed and the equipment safely restarted.

Lock Out Tag Out Essentials

As part of the lock out procedure, there are a few essential pieces of equipment required to ensure safe isolation. These include the following:

Safety Padlock: A highly important aspect of lock out tag out is having the correct locks to place on your equipment. By choosing the correct safety padlock, specifically designed for lock out tag out, will help to ensure a safe system of work.    

Identifier Tag: Tags allow for a visual method of identifying who applied the lock, as this is the only person during a lock out procedure permitted to remove it. The tags often include information such as name, type of isolation and the date of the lock out. These tags will sometimes include photographs for easy identification.

Lockout Hasp: Vital for multi-person lock out procedures, lock out hasps allow energy sources to be isolated by more than one worker for a safe system of work. This means the equipment cannot be re-energised until every worker has removed their lock from the hasp.

Key Cabinets: For padlocks with individual keys, storing these within a key cabinet will ensure only authorised personnel can access them. Key cabinets are also especially useful for storing the equipment keys to prevent accidental re-energisation.

Lock Out Stations: These are highly beneficial for storing all of your lock out equipment in one place. As lock out equipment should not be used for any other procedures in the workplace, keeping them all together in a secure environment can ensure they don’t become misplaced or misused.

When implementing a lock out tag out procedure in the workplace it is vital that employees have been trained to a high standard and that the correct equipment is on hand. Without this safety procedure, or a high level of training, accidents in the workplace are far more likely to occur.

The world of Structural Warranties can be complicated for self-builders. From choosing the right provider to fully understanding what your Structural Warranty does, there is so much to consider. But, understanding exactly what a Structural Warranty is and why you need one, will help you to choose the right cover for your self-build project.  

To help you, the experts at Self-Build Zone have put together a definitive guide to Structural Warranties that covers everything you need to know so that you can make an informed decision. This information should also help make sure that your project is fully covered, should the worst happen.

What is a Structural Warranty?

Simply put, a Structural Warranty is an insurance policy that covers any defects in building work, design or materials used in the construction process. Usually lasting 10-Years. This arrangement ensures that any defects that are discovered in a given time frame within the agreement will be covered if they lie within the builder’s responsibility.

Each policy will be slightly different, so it is always important to read the fine print. Generally, the more expensive the policy, the wider the cover is.

What does a Structural Warranty cover?

Typically, a Structural Warranty is split into two periods. The first period is the defects insurance period. This lasts for the first two years of the policy, which begins when the building receives its certificate of completion. Within these first two years, the developer is responsible for amending any issues that arise from their work or fail to comply with the provider’s standards. Faults of this kind need to be reported as soon as possible.

The second period of cover is the Structural insurance period. During this period, it becomes the responsibility of the Structural Warranty provider to deal directly with valid claims. This 8-year time frame involves defects being reported directly to the provider of the Warranty, and if the defect is valid and you’re covered, the provider is responsible for organising and paying for repairs etc.

Who needs a Self-Build Structural Warranty?

If you’re self-building, it is not required to have a Structural Warranty, but most lenders will need one. Structural Warranties are required for mortgages, so you will struggle to sell a self-built home within the 10-Year period, without taking out a policy.

If you purchase a Warranty and you sell your self-build property within the 10-Year period, the Warranty can be transferred to the new owner, for the remainder of the warranty period.

What is the Structural Warranty process?

Your experience with a Structural Warranty policy will differ depending on the provider. However, the process usually begins with the self-builder applying for the policy by registering with a provider and submitting plans, specifications and any application forms, plus an application fee if applicable. Then, the Structural Warranty provider will review the plans and calculate a quote.

Once the Structural Warranty is issued, documents are signed, and any necessary appraisal meetings have taken place, you will be provided with a technical manual and any other necessary documentation. When the building work begins, the warranty provider will carry out regular site inspections to ensure that the building work complies with their standards. As mentioned earlier, the policy will begin after completion of the build, when a certificate is issued.

How much does a Structural Warranty cost?

The cost of a Structural Warranty varies hugely project by project. It will all depend on the size and type of property, amongst other factors. Your warranty provider will carefully calculate you a quote, once you have filled in all the necessary details.

What are the benefits of a Structural Warranty?

There are many benefits that come with a Structural Warranty. The most obvious one is that a Structural Warranty gives you peace of mind. Of course, the hope is that nothing will go wrong, but a policy in place ensures you are covered should the worst happen, saving you stress and money.

When you purchase a Structural Warranty, the provider will carry out frequent inspections to ensure the building work meets Building Standards. Therefore, obtaining a Structural Warranty will help ensure your building work is of a high standard.

Also, as mentioned earlier, most mortgage lenders will not lend money for a building without a Structural Warranty, so having one in place will help you to sell what you have built more easily. During a self-build project, it can be tempting to try and save money where you can, but a Structural Warranty worth the investment.

Where can you get a Structural Warranty?

Obtaining a quality Structural Warranty is vital for protecting your building work, should you need it. With so many options available, you can get comprehensive cover for your project, no matter the scale. But, knowing all you can about this insurance policy could help things run a little smoother.

Self-Build Zone provides structural warranties for all self-build projects and developments.

Thanks to aspirational TV programmes like Grand Designs, it’s no surprise that 1 in 7 Brits are currently researching the self-build process.

The government are even getting on board by introducing more incentives in the hope of boosting the number of self-builds by 35% year-on-year.

To help, Insulation Express have uncovered the biggest opportunities in the UK for aspiring self-build homeowners, property investors and SME builders. The results have been collated into a map which highlights the top 30 cities; the data also includes the number of available plots and the average plot price for each city: https://www.insulationexpress.co.uk/blog/uks-biggest-self-build-opportunities/

Stand out stats include:

• 1 million Brits plan on building a self-build within the next year.
• The average self-build homeowner makes a profit of 29% when selling their home.
• 49% of Brits dislike standard new builds making the flexibility of a self-build more appealing.
• The average price of a plot in Liverpool (£817,000) is seven times more expensive than in Manchester (£91,062).

Top 10 Most Expensive Cities for Self-Build Plots

Insulation Express have also used their ‘self-build opportunities’ data to expose the most expensive cities for aspiring self-builders.

Place	City	Average Price of Plot
1	Liverpool	£817,000
2	Oxford	£508,333
3	Leeds	£388,000
4	Portsmouth	£371,250
5	Derby	£356,428
6	Peterborough	£328,741
7	Cambridge	£323,333
8	Cardiff	£303,750
9	Birmingham	£274,714
10	Edinburgh	£256,000

Top 10 Cheapest Cities for Self-Build Plots

Insulation Express’ have also uncovered the cheapest cities for self-build plot prices.

Place	City	Average Price of Plot
1	Inverness	£91,062
2	Dundee	£95,000
3	Manchester	£112,090
4	Salford	£119,833
5	Durham	£128,684
6	Wolverhampton	£146,666
7	Southampton	£156,666
8	Plymouth	£170,000
9	Lincoln	£173,316
10	Newport	£195,500

Top 30 Cities with the Biggest Self-build Potential

TIMco, one of the UK’s largest, independent and fastest growing wholesalers to the construction industry, has further expanded their VETO Security & Ironmongery range with the official launch of the innovative Fantom Doorstop, as well as the unveiling of a new range of Quality Steel Hinges. These new extensions follow the recent successful launch of the TAURUS range of external fence and gate hardware, whilst also helping to deliver on the company’s strategy of being a ‘one stop shop’ for builders’ merchants. 

The Fantom Doorstop is the world’s first fully concealed, flush finish and trip hazard free doorstop like no other in the market. The flagship product from the Fantom Hardware range was invented in order to solve two problems; to reduce trip hazards and improve aesthetics. Unlike conventional door stops today, the Fantom Doorstop poses no trip hazard due to its innovative design. The doorstop uses a powerful rare earth magnet to activate a pin that is recessed into the floor to stop the door and hold it in place.

The magnet is so powerful that even fast-swinging doors can be stopped in their tracks. When the door is open in a controlled manner, the Fantom Doorstop will also act as a door hold open device making it ideal for preventing doors from slamming.

Because of its clean flush finish, the Fantom Doorstop can be fitted to all floor surfaces including wooden floors, tiles, polished concrete and even carpet. The product is available in six different finishes: Clear, White, Black, Chrome, Brass and Brushed Alloy, and all finishes come with a stainless-steel striker plate.

The new range of Quality Steel Hinges, also launching under the VETO Security & Ironmongery range, have been designed and manufactured to meet the high standards associated with TIMco. The range comprises of 116 hinges in total and is set for further expansion over the coming year.

The VETO Security & Ironmongery range can be merchandised on the existing TIMco stands in dedicated trays, along with supporting POS. The products will be individually packed in polybags with a bespoke label and barcode, making the merchandising an easy task for the merchant, whilst also improving both the ease and navigation of the shopping experience for the end user.

Paul White, Ironmongery Product Manager for TIMco, comments: “We are excited to be further developing our ironmongery range with the additions of the Fantom Doorstop and the Quality Steel Hinges. We are committed to providing everyday products with the signature ‘TIMco quality’ to our customers, but with added POS solutions to make the merchandising an easy task for our merchants. Introducing new and innovative products to the market like the Fantom Doorstop gives our customers new and unique solutions for problems and outlines our company mission to be that ‘one-stop-shop’ for builders’ merchants.”

The Fantom Doorstop and Quality Steel Hinges will be available to purchase from April 2019 and will sit amongst TIMco’s VETO Security & Ironmongery range, as well as featuring in the updated VETO Specialist Product Guide.

TIMco, one of the UK’s largest independent wholesale suppliers of screws, fasteners, fixings, nails, building chemicals and adhesives, power tool accessories, building hardware, site protection and ironmongery, is headquartered in Nantwich, Cheshire and imports and supplies more than 6,500 product lines from around the world to distributors throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe.  The company was established in 1972 and now employs 160+ members of staff from its offices in the UK, Ireland and Taiwan.  For more information, visit www.TIMco.co.uk

Construction testing and certification company Lucideon has forged a new partnership in Europe to enable UK construction product manufacturers to retain access to EU markets.

Lucideon has joined forces with Czech Republic-based certification body TZUS to ensure companies can seamlessly achieve a wide-range of product certifications for the EU, whatever the outcome of the Brexit negotiations.

Offering one of the largest construction products testing and certification services in the UK, Lucideon has a large-scale construction laboratory on site at its headquarters in Stoke-on-Trent, with state-of-the art testing facilities including a significant strong-floor, heavy load lifting capabilities, 900 tonne compression loading rigs, large capacity hygrothermal testing chambers and an indoor dynamic wind loading and wind uplifting rig.

Under the new partnership, manufacturers can continue to deliver their products to Lucideon’s UK site, with the company taking control of all the administration to ensure compliance with EU requirements.

Tony Kinsella, CEO of Lucideon, said: “We might be facing uncertain times, but we’ve been working to ensure continuity for clients, through a cost-effective and flexible service that will enable product certifications for the EU to be continued.

“TZUS is a large and well-respected certification body and the partnership will provide a seamless service for UK construction manufacturers wanting to place products on the EU market, regardless of a Brexit deal or no deal situation.”

Prototype is powered by a next generation Kubota Spark Ignition series engine and can run on LPG

Kubota, a leading manufacturer of construction machinery, today announces the reveal of the KX019-4 LPG (Liquid Petrol Gas) mini excavator prototype. This model can run on LPG and is powered by a next generation Kubota Spark Ignition series engine.

The new KX019-4 LPG makes it possible for users to work in emission restricted access areas such as cities applying diesel-bans, and also generates less noise emissions. Using the industrial standard gas bottles available everywhere, the machine is easily and quickly refuelled by replacing the bottle. The machine is equipped with a reserve tank (gas accumulator) so that the operator can notice before the gas bottle becomes empty.

The performance characteristics of KX019-4 LPG is exactly the same as the diesel powered KX019. The excavator’s undercarriage is variable, which allows operators to enter into areas with less than a metre of access. This machine does not compromise on the level of stability and security required due to an enlarged lower frame. Furthermore, the working range of KX019-4 LPG provides an operational amplitude and guarantees a maximum digging depth of over two and a half metres which is sufficient for urban applications.     

The KX019-4 LPG has been unveiled at Bauma, the world’s leading construction machinery trade fair in Munich. Along with in market testing of this prototype model, Kubota will continue to research into alternative fuelled solutions.

Keigo Watanabe, Vice President Sales and Marketing Business Unit, CE Kubota Holdings Europe B.V comments: “We are delighted to be unveiling Kubota’s latest solution for urban site managers and workers who are required to respond to the recent anti -diesel restrictions, in form of the KX019-4 LPG at Bauma. The development of this model is the answer from Kubota to the current anti-diesel trend, in which economy, practicality and environmental issues are all integrated. This machine, powered by the Kubota SI engine, will bring the most productive solution to urban work sites without having a considerable impact on the investment, or loss of productivity due to the refuelling time, while delivering high performance and quality of ‘Kubota’. We are looking forward to receiving customer feedback on the stand at Bauma”. For more information on the rest of the Kubota construction machinery range, please contact your local authorised Kubota dealer or visit https://kuk.kubota-eu.com/constructionmachinery

The construction industry takes great care in protecting staff from visible risks, ensuring all precautions are taken to maintain the physical wellbeing of its workers.

Despite this, construction is still one of the most dangerous sectors to work in thanks to the big presence of a risk that isn’t visible: employee mental health.

“Safety is one of the biggest concerns in the construction industry,” says Daniel Ure from online PPE retailer Vizwear, “and since one of the biggest risks to workers in construction today is that posed by mental health problems, addressing them needs to be at the top of an employer’s list of priorities.”

“Unfortunately, there’s still a stigma around this topic, which causes too many people to keep their issues to themselves. This can lead to disastrous consequences, which is why it’s so important for employers to protect their staff.”

The state of mental health in construction

In the UK, mental health issues lead to over 70 million sick days per year. Whether it’s anxiety, depression or stress, mental health causes more sick days than any other health condition and costs our economy between £70 billion and £100 billion each year.

However, struggles with mental health can have much more serious ramifications. — and in no other industry is that quite so evident as in construction.

Data from the Office of National Statistics found that between 2011 and 2015, the highest number of suicides were found in skilled construction workers. With over 1400 in-work suicides, this sector makes up over 13% of those recorded, despite construction only accounting for 7% of the UK workforce.

Construction News created a survey along with Mind Matters to identify any changes to mental health in construction between 2017-2018. Although 67% of respondents believe awareness has improved over this period, the results show no real improvement to mental health in the industry and that 81% believe there is still a stigma.

Why construction?

While mental health issues can affect anyone, men are particularly vulnerable. 76% of recorded suicides in the UK are committed by men, with suicide being the biggest cause of death in men under 35.

And with men making up 89% of the workforce, this is a particularly problematic issue for the construction industry.

The working lifestyle of a construction worker can take its toll. Workers will often work long, demanding hours and can spend their days away from home for weeks at a time. Without a private, safe space to unwind, all the stresses of work add up and make it difficult to switch off.

The working environment —  where speaking about emotional or mental issues has historically been stigmatized— is also to blame, as the ‘macho’ image of construction workers makes it difficult to talk about mental health.

Thankfully, there are a number of positive initiatives employers can take, as well as registered charities and support groups dedicated to the wellbeing of construction workers.

What are the signs?

Unlike physical injuries, mental health issues are difficult to spot and are often kept secret.

Thankfully, there are a few common telltale signs when someone is struggling with their mental health:

• They find it difficult to problem-solve
• They are easily distracted and are less productive than usual
• They lack self-confidence
• They are easily agitated and create conflict amongst co-workers
• They feel easily overwhelmed
• They are increasingly late or absent from work
• They often isolate themselves from others

What can employers do?

The best way for the construction industry to tackle the importance of employee mental health is from the top. Business owners and management need to implement the same safety standards they take towards physical health and safety and use them to safeguard mental health.

There are a number of steps that managers can take to create a positive work environment for their staff so that mental health can be comfortably addressed, rather than hidden away.

1.  Create a supportive culture

The first step for a manager is to evaluate the culture of their workforce to detect any potential pain points for staff. This can range from employee workloads to how staff communicate with each other throughout the business.

By putting their business under a microscope, managers can build a strong, supportive work culture from the ground up. This will help to establish mental wellbeing as a crucial value of the company, meaning open discussions about employee mental health will become the norm.

2.  Educate employees

By making education a priority, employers can help to remove the stigma of mental health and ensure their staff understand the negative impacts that can affect anyone.

This can range from providing easily accessible information for your staff to hiring third-party organisations, such as Mates in Mind, to come in for regular staff training days.

With a team of knowledgable employees, a company will find it easier to combat any dangers and empower their staff to support each other when facing difficulties with their mental health. Improving awareness creates more opportunities to spot early signs of coworkers struggling and creates an overall healthier workplace environment.

3.  Be open and available

Mental health is a private matter to many people, which makes it difficult to speak about openly. Without establishing a clear and open line of communication, it’s much more likely that workers will keep their troubles to themselves.

By letting employees know that they always have someone to talk to, they are much more likely to come out of their shell and identify any health problems like anxiety or depression early enough to put in place counteractive measures.

It can be difficult in construction as employees don’t often have a static working environment, so site managers should take it upon themselves to establish regular catch ups with staff to evaluate their wellbeing.

4.  Be vigilant

Tackling mental health takes a lot more than running a one-off seminar. Many mental health issues take time to be resolved, which means companies need to be aware of their staff’s needs all year round.

By continuing to offer training, guidance and support to their employees, mental health care will be embedded into a companies culture and will become a natural part of its safety protocol – not just ticking a box on a form.

5.  Put a support system in place

Spotting the early signs is important, yet employers also need to ensure they create a safety net for their staff. Companies need to make sure that helpful information is readily available for employees so that anyone struggling with their mental health knows where to turn to receive support through services like counselling and therapy.

Resources

When it comes to protecting your employees’ mental health, there are a number of resources available for extra support.

As of January 2017, the Health in Construction Leadership Group (HCLG) established Mates in Mind, its own registered charity whose sole purpose is to raise awareness and provide support for the mental wellbeing of construction workers.

Mates in Mind have a goal to reach 75% of the construction industry by 2025 and offer training courses based on four key elements: Awareness & Education, Guidance & Support, Communication and Research & Development.

If you work in construction and need urgent help or support in regards to your mental health, there are also a number of confidential services and advice lines available:

• Construction Industry Helpline 0345 605 1956 – Provided by the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, the helpline advises on a range of matters including occupational health and wellbeing, support and advice for people with stress The services can also provide emergency financial aid to the construction community in times of crisis.
• Mind 0300 123 393 – Provides advice and support to anyone experiencing a mental health problem
• Samaritans 116 123 – Confidential 24-hour support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress, despair or suicidal thoughts

“Despite construction’s reputation for poor mental health, there are actually a lot of support systems in place to help protect the workers,” says Daniel from Vizwear.

“Communication is still the biggest obstacle between employees and management, which is why confidential advice lines are so important. By giving construction workers the opportunity to discuss their mental health in a supportive environment, they can take positive steps without the need to speak publicly.

“If more workers make use of these services, they will feel more comfortable speaking to their employers about their mental health, which is the first step to making real change in the industry.”

Liverpool Waters is an ambitious 30-year vision costing in the region of £5.5 billion, aiming to redefine Liverpool’s iconic docklands into a world-class district in its own right. Stretched across 2 million square metres of land, this momentous regeneration scheme has bold plans to completely transform this waterfront into a mixed-use destination complete with high-quality office space and state of the art residential apartments, as well as creating a seamless extension of Liverpool’s city centre.

The Peel Group, awarded Responsible Business of the Year, are spearheading the Liverpool Waters regeneration with a 30-year time slot dedicated to completing the development. Redeveloping a total of 1.2 million square metres of property, 53,000 square metres of hotel and conference facilities, a new cruise liner terminal, plus 15,000 hectares of land and water is by no means an easy feat. Therefore, it is no surprise this project has been coined the largest and most ambitious in the whole of the UK.

Darran Lawless, development director at Liverpool Waters said,

“This really is a landmark time for the Liverpool Waters project. Following a decade of meticulous planning, we are now firmly in the delivery phase of this project, and I am excited to see these plans take shape.

The aim of Liverpool Waters project is an ambitious one, but one that will expand the city centre as well as creating jobs and bringing economic benefits to not only North Liverpool, but the region as a whole.”

There is a multitude of prolific developments that are well underway and progressing at a rapid pace. One of the most significant purposes of this extensive regeneration is not only to transform the city into a mixed-use destination but also offer new employment opportunities, a nicer place to live, and a more innovative place to do business, not to mention the investment prospects that are strong and profitable.

Liverpool has a distinguished and glorified history, and the transformation of the waterfront is no different. The city celebrates its plentiful maritime heritage which stems from its focus as a world trading port. Innovative technologies and an abundance of developments in the Liverpool Waters vision has solidified the city and its trading terminal as one of the best in the world.

Home to a major port, Liverpool Waters aims to sustain a positive future built on a successful past, aspiring to not only cater for professionals and tourists but a whole range of demographics that wish to use the superior facilities and amenities that are scheduled to complete in this pocket of the city.

First class residential accommodation will be a huge part of the new and improved Liverpool Docklands, as a total of five distinct neighbourhoods will join Liverpool’s existing property portfolio. Investing in Liverpool’s waterfront will provide a fruitful opportunity to produce high returns in an in-demand location as well as playing a crucial role in raising the city’s profile as an investment hotspot. Each development created will undoubtedly offer tenants a superior lifestyle, with the perks of living near the bustle of the city centre. If you’re interested in investing in rental properties, then the Liverpool waterfront is the perfect spot for high yields and positive growth. RW Invest, property investment specialists, have investment properties in proximity to this location and offer guidance to help you purchase your first buy to let property.

Liverpool has long been regarded as a vibrant city, attracting tourists from all over the globe to its plethora of attractions., however over recent years, the city has emerged as one of the leading destinations for property investment. High rental yields and strong house growth predictions are great news for both investors concentrating on maximising their income, and the local economy that thrives from increased investment. Liverpool waters is unquestionably setting the bar high for redevelopments of major cities across the UK and is an exciting time that is changing the face of Liverpool.

In our every day lives – particularly as commuters – we probably cross a number of bridges every day.

But there are some bridges in the world that are far more exciting than others. From a bridge that the Devil himself is said to have helped build, to a bridge that curls up, structure analysis software providers Oasys cast an eye over some of these unique structural successes.

1.      Germany ‘s Devil’s Bridge

This bizarre bridge, combined with its own reflection, creates a perfect circle. The bridge is said to have been commissioned by a knight in 1860. But the rocks and stones used for its creation are jagged and spikey, so it was dangerous to cross.

According to Earth Trekkers, there were other Devil’s Bridges built in the past as a masonry challenge. The idea was that only Satan himself could help with a difficult build such as these bridges, and the first human who crossed the completed bridge would pay for the Devil’s helping hand by giving up his soul.

Today, the bridge is off-limits for preservation reasons. But it is still an oddly beautiful sight to behold!

2.      India’s Living Roots Bridges

These bridges are a testament of patience and adaptability. These beautifully natural bridges were formed by guiding rubber tree roots with hollow canes so that they would grow outwards and meet from either side of a stream. It would take years to reach the opposite bank, but the hard work paid off as these Living Roots bridges can support the weight of a human.

They were originally made by the Khasi tribe, who realised the bamboo bridges they were building would collapse or rot after a monsoon or heavy storm.

3.      The Rolling Bridge, found in the UK

Created by Heatherwick Studios, the Rolling Bridge is a steel bridge that covers an inlet in London. What makes this bridge so unique is that it can tidy itself away!

When needed, this bridge curls up into an octogen shape to stand on one side of the canal until a boat passes. The bridge also curls up every day at noon, if you want to see it in action!

4.      Norway and the Da Vinci Bridge

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This bridge was originally designed nearly 500 years ago by Leonardo Da Vinci, with the intention of being built across the Golden Horn in Istanbul. The original drawing had a single span of 240 metres, but the project did not go ahead as it was believed that such a design was not feasible.

But the bridge was brought to life in Norway, as the first example of a major engineering feat to be built from a Da Vinci drawing. The bridge has just three arches to support the structure. Though the Norwegian bridge is a smaller version of the original plans, it shows that the design works — one arch under the bridge, and two arches either side leaning inwards to spread the weight.

5.      Vietnam’s Dragon Bridge

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Located in Da Nang in Vietnam, the Dragon Bridge is certainly a spectacular sight! The bridge is the result of an international competition by the Da Nang People’s Committee in order to improve travel in the city. The bridge has six lanes for vehicles, two lanes for pedestrians, and 2,500 LED lights.

Incredibly, the Dragon Bridge is fully capable of breathing fire too. In fact, the bridge can spout water or fire, and this display is often used for special occasions in the city.