25 March 2004

University of Dundee takes lead in construction industry

Photo opportunity: 4.30pm, Friday 26 March, Dean’s office, Ewing Building, University of Dundee.

University of Dundee and leading construction research organisation, Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA), are set to join forces to help improve the performance of the Scottish construction industry. Professor Tim Broyd, chief executive of CIRIA and the University's Head of the Division of Civil Engineering will sign an agreement that will help enhance the performance of the construction industry in Dundee and beyond by developing and encouraging best practice.

In light of the budgetary problems highlighted in the building of the new Scottish Parliament and other high profile projects, this initiative will provide real assistance in the planning of major construction projects. Together, the Division of Civil Engineering and CIRIA can help predict with much greater reliability the cost of PFI/PPP projects and also promote building for sustainability to reduce maintenance costs, chose the best value for money and increase the profitability of contracts from the start of the project to the end of the building’s life.

Both are experts in their fields. CIRIA is recognised as the foremost independent and authoritative broker of construction research and innovation in the UK, spanning the property, transportation and utilities sectors. The University’s Division of Civil Engineering is the top rated civil engineering school in Scotland and has specialist expertise in structures, geotechnical engineering, construction management, concrete technology and fluid mechanics amongst others.

The Division of Civil Engineering has always been committed to improving the performance of the construction industry in Scotland but in partnership with CIRIA they have a stronger voice to advise relevant government bodies on the Scottish construction agenda and the way the performance of the industry can be measured and improved. Collaboration will include developing joint research projects and the provision of expert advice to relevant government and industry initiatives.

Dr Rod Jones, Head of the Division of Civil Engineering, University of Dundee said, "We are very proud that out of all the Scottish universities, CIRIA has chosen Dundee's Division of Civil Engineering as the national centre for this exciting initiative. We look forward to working with CIRIA to improve the performance of the construction industry not only in Scotland but worldwide."

Professor Tim Broyd, Chief Executive of CIRIA said, "I am delighted to sign this memorandum of understanding with the Division of Civil Engineering. It brings together two powerful organisations and opens the potential for developing new and exciting initiatives. This is particularly important in realising the vision for the Scottish construction industry set out in 'Achieving Construction Innovation and Excellence in Scotland'.

For further information please contact Professor Malcolm Horner, Division of Civil Engineering on 01382 344350

By Angela Durcan, Press Officer 01382 344768, out of hours: 07968298585, a.durcan@dundee.ac.uk