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A group of construction leaders and professionals from across Bath attended a dedicated event to discuss how to combat some of the biggest challenges currently facing the industry.

The event was organised by Constructing Excellence South West, a member-led organisation designed to drive positive change in construction, and was chaired by Julia Davenport-Cooper, Partner at Temple Bright LLP.

Sponsored by global business insurer Gallagher, the evening was well attended by key clients, high street lenders, local construction professional service firms, developers, contractors, and subcontractors who each shared their experiences of working within the industry.

Understanding how to navigate the challenges on climate crisis, building safety and attracting future skills and talent into the sector is a big focus throughout the region. So, the evening looked primarily at what can be done differently in these areas to make positive changes for the future of the industry.

Julia Davenport-Cooper, Chair of Constructing Excellence Bath Club, said: “It was a fantastic evening and marked one of the first times we were able to reunite as a club. Thank you to everyone who gave up their free time to attend and for being so open and honest during the discussions.

“A wide range of personal experiences, views and recommendations were shared across the room as participants unpicked climate crisis, building safety and future skills.

“Constructing Excellence South West is responsible for enabling us to hold events like this, and with the support of Gallagher it was a great success.”

Gallagher Managing Director, Bristol, Andy Ferguson added: “All too often businesses work individually to tackle what’s actually a common challenge to all of us.  This event has shown how much more can be achieved when we come together and share our experiences of how we are adapting to change and embracing new ways of working.

“It was fantastic to be able to support this event and see the construction industry in Bath come together to drive forward positive change.”

Next on the agenda for the CESW Bath Club is an event being held at the American Museum to tie in with National Big Green Week.

Participants will be given guided talks, hosted by Nash Partnership, on the developments currently being completed at the museum, followed by a series of short talks from representatives at the American Museum who will discuss their march to net-zero. Further discussions will then be led by Alex McCann, Climate Policy Officers for B&ANES, and the CESW Bath committee.

“This is one of many events we have in the pipeline which will offer more opportunities to identify what change can be made in our region.

“As a Club we are very active in the city and have a very committed committee.  Last year we adopted a theme to champion and give cohesion to our events. After much deliberation we settled on the UN SDG of consumption and sustainability and as such are working to ensure our events, delivered this year, champion and recognise this.

“It’s a really exciting time to be a part of the Bath Club and we’d really encourage other construction professionals living within the city and its surrounding areas to get involved,” adds Julia.

To find out more about Constructing Excellence South West and its regional clubs, visit: https://constructingexcellencesw.org.uk/