Introduction to The Built Environment Assignment Sample

Introduction to The Built Environment

The Built Environment comprises all constructed structures, surroundings and infrastructures that have an impact on the way individuals live and the way cities grow. High-Speed 2 (HS2) UK construction project is a large high-speed rail network that will be built as part of, a revolutionary project that hopes to revolutionize the transportation system in the nation. HS2 is expected to provide major economic, social and environmental advantages for the UK by linking key cities and regions. The report examines the HS2 project's overall evaluation, including its importance, distinctive features and prospective effects. In anticipation to the rising need for effective and sustainable transportation choices, HS2 was established. With its quicker, more sustainable and consistent train services, HS2 aims to ease traffic on the roads and cut off carbon dioxide emissions brought on by flying. Furthermore, this ambitious project aims to support regional development by promoting job opportunities and job creation in the nearby villages along the train line.

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The report will emphasise HS2 construction including its primary phases, its funding sources, and the important stakeholders' respective responsibilities. The report will contrast the financial rewards, such as creating employment and economic stimulation, with the social gains, such as enhanced connectedness and access. The report will additionally address possible issues and areas where changes might be made. The provision of suggestions will guarantee the successful involvement of stakeholders, environmentally sound business practices, and project completion.

Body

Investigate the various sectors of the construction industry within the built environment

The private and public sectors are the two primary sectors within the building & construction industry. Despite the fact that their construction-related operations are comparable, their control, funding, goals and rules varied greatly.

Construction projects performed by different levels of government, including the national, state and municipal governments are often referred to as being in the public sector. These efforts are supported by public or allocated government funds (Borri, et. al. 2021). Construction of infrastructure, public buildings like educational institutions, medical centres, government offices and transportation systems like highways, bridges & airports are a few instances of building initiatives in the public sector. On the contrary, building projects executed for profit by privately held businesses, people, or organisations make up the private sector. Housing structures, commercial buildings, manufacturing plants and infrastructure improvements carried out by private firms all fall under the category of private sector constructions.

Their financing methods are a fundamental difference between the two industries. To provide public services and goods, initiatives in the public sector are often supported by government spending or public bonds (Raiden and King, 2021). On the other side, initiatives in the private sector depend on private capital and funding from banks, financial organisations, or developers of real estate. For construction endeavours in the private sector, making money is the main goal. The two sectors have different regulatory environments. Construction projects in the public sector are governed by many rules, monitoring, and compliance demands. Implementation of environmental norms, equitable labour practices, public procurement processes, and safety for everyone are all ensured by this legislation. Rules must also be adhered to, however, private-sector building projects may be more flexible and might be driven by market rivalry.

The processes for making decisions differ amongst the industries as well. Construction projects are frequently subject to administrative procedures, hearings for the public, and governmental clearances in the public sector. However, initiatives in the private sector are driven by consumer demand and impacted by things like investment choices, economic viability, and feasibility assessments.

Construction project in the UK

Background of High Speed 2 (HS2) UK construction project

High Speed 2 (HS2) is a significant railway building project in the UK. The project's major aim is to improve national transportation. A plan by the Labour administration to build a new high-speed train network connecting key UK cities collectively gave rise to the idea for the High Speed 2 in 2009. The initiative sought to increase the economy and relieve problems with capacity on the current rail lines (Steele, Bild and Guastavino, 2023). The HS2 path was settled upon after lengthy research, discussions, and study of different possibilities. Many benefits, including higher capacity, reduced travel times, expanded connectivity, and growth in the region are expected to be brought about by HS2. The campaign seeks to promote mode transitions from roadways and aeroplanes to rail to reduce emissions of carbon and congestion by offering more frequent and reliable services. Additionally, it is predicted to encourage sustainable growth, increase the local economy, and generate jobs.

The HS2 project's projected price has changed over the years. The projected cost as of the understanding cutoff is roughly £98 billion. The UK government mostly supports the project using a combination of borrowing and revenue from taxes. Global partnerships and investments from the corporate sector have additionally been drawn to it. Environmental examination and concerns have been raised about HS2 (Singley, 2019). The project involves constructing additional train lines, which has sparked concerns about how it might impact the immediate surroundings, habitats for wildlife, and old-growth forests. To mitigate these effects, steps have been taken, including growing new trees, establishing animal passageways, and using environmentally friendly building methods.

Both of support and criticism of the HS2 project have been raised. Proponents claim that it will promote growth in the economy, enhance interaction, and offer environmentally friendly transportation choices. Critics raise worries about the project's expense, impact on the environment, annoyance to the community, and feasible alternatives for enhancing the current train infrastructure. The HS2 project is an important investment to enhance the UK's railway system to transform accessibility and foster long-term growth in the economy (Ebekozien, et. al. 2023). To ensure a balance between financial benefits and the environment, its execution includes significant organizing, construction, and involvement of stakeholders.

Identify when the project started and was completed

The High-speed (HS2) project, building on Phase 1, the biggest railway building strives in the United Kingdom, commenced in September 2020. The project remains in progress as of the present information cutoff in September 2021, and the projected completion times for every stage vary.

The project followed the standard project lifecycle, which includes the phases of initiating, planning, carrying out, regulating, and closing. To create a foundation for the project, the creation of concepts, feasibility analyses, and route decision evaluation were carried out during the commencement phase (Çimen, 2021). The planning phase then started, which included careful route design, ecological evaluations, stakeholder engagements, and obtaining required licenses and clearances.

Phase 1

In phase 1 HS2 project includes land acquisition, preparing the site, infrastructure building, and station development. To get the necessary property along the projected route, talks with owners and settlement arrangements were necessary. Clearing the structure sites, removing plants, levelling the land, and performing utility diversion were all part of the location prep procedures. Constructing new high-speed rail lines required building tunnels, roads, viaducts, and foundations, among other types of infrastructure (Dixit, et. al. 2021). The construction of new stations like London Euston, Birmingham Curzon Street, and Interface also absorbed a substantial amount of attention. Efforts including animal preservation, planting trees, and decreased noise were put into place to lessen the effect on the environment.

Phase 2

The project, which is currently in the planning and consultation phase 2a, will require more path alignment improvement, environmental evaluations, and the regulatory processes necessary to move forth with construction. It also involves carrying out environmental impact analyses, revising the route design in light of feedback from stakeholders and engineering concerns, and securing every necessary approvals and license, especially a hybrid bill with the UK Parliamentary (Sepasgozar, 2021). This phase also includes construction planning operations including comprehensive design, contractor selection, and logistical preparation.

Similar to Phase 2a, HS2 Phase 2b is currently in the planning and consultation stages. This phase's operations include more route design and alignment refining, Phase 2b-specific environmental impact studies, continuing stakeholder engagement, and building preparation. During the whole project lifespan, oversight and oversight are crucial. To ensure effective project execution, ongoing surveillance of project progress, procedures for quality control, compliance with timetables and spending plans, and handling stakeholders are essential (Hewa Welege, Pan and Kumaraswamy, 2021). The project's finishing phase entails executing any required post-project reviews, finalising the accounting records, and conducting post-construction evaluations.

It is vital to keep in mind the fact that the HS2 project will take time to complete, and exact periods may change. The supplied complete predictions are based on the information currently available, however as the project moves along, adjustments and alterations to timeframes and tasks are likely.

Identify the main professionals and professional bodies involved in the project

Numerous professional organisations that are essential to the project's success have joined together on the High Speed 2 (HS2) UK construction project. These organisations offer their expertise, direction, and oversight to the undertaking's numerous parts. Following are the primary organizations of professionals participating in the HS2 construction including their functions:

Department for Transport (DfT)

This is an organisation in charge of regulating the UK's transport sector. In the HS2 project, its primary duties and duties include policy formulation, financing and budgeting, and interaction with stakeholders. The DfT creates high-speed rail strategies and plans, including the design and execution of the HS2 project. They manage budgets, distribute monies, and oversee the project's finances (Allen and Iano, 2019). To ensure efficient coordination and collaboration, the DfT additionally interacts with stakeholders including local governments, communities, and other agencies of government.

High Speed 2 Limited

The Company was founded to carry out the HS2 project and is entirely controlled by the UK government. The planning, buying, and building activities for the project are entirely under the management of HS2 Ltd. They are also in charge of managing stakeholders, environmental and sustainability analyses, and planning routes and engineering. They develop and enhance the structural design, route alignment, and technological requirements for the railway system. HS2 Ltd carries out ecological impact analyses, puts mitigation strategies into action, and makes sure sustainability concerns are taken into account (Mhatre, et. al. 2021). To address issues and foster efficient interaction, they also interact with stakeholders, such as neighbourhood communities, companies, and other interested groups.

Network Rail

To provide a seamless connection between the new fast-speed train and the current railway system, the national railway management company in the UK is participating in the HS2 project. To provide seamless connections, the railway company Network Rail works with HS2 Ltd to handle the connections between HS2 and the present network, comprising stops, junctions, and tracks. They offer information on planning for capacity, operating requirements, and synchronisation with current railway operations.

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

These two professional organisations are crucial to the HS2 project. For conceptualisation the project's locations, bridges, and other buildings, RIBA offers architecture direction and expertise. They make certain the architectural designs adhere to stringent criteria for sustainability, practicality, and beauty. RICS, offers experience in negotiating with landowners within the HS2 corridor, paying compensation, or valuing properties. In addition, they support the management of project expenses by guaranteeing efficient cost control and administration during the project.

Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)

On the planning, building, and upkeep of the railway infrastructure, they offer engineering knowledge and direction. Technological specifications, safety laws, and industry standards are all upheld by ICE (Amudjie, et. al. 2023). To ensure superior craftsmanship and compliance to technical standards, they supervise building contractors and work in collaboration with them.

Construction Industry Council (CIC)

This provides a platform for associations, organisations professionals, and research institutes in the construction sector. They play an essential part in promoting communication and coordination among the HS2 project group, business stakeholders, and numerous professional associations. Construction standards, best practices, and innovation are promoted and disseminated by CIC.

These associations of professionals provide specialised expertise, technical direction, and oversight that aid in the execution of the HS2 project. They make which the project complies with the law, corporate best practices, and industry standards. They influence the project's layout, construction, engineering, and operating components through their engagement. In addition, they are essential for resolving issues, encouraging collaboration, and engaging stakeholders in the High Speed 2 project. In the end, cooperation among these professional organisations helps the UK create a high-speed rail network that is modern, effective, and sustainable.

Highlight the benefits of the construction industry to the UK economy and local communities

The local communities that the High Speed 2 (HS2) UK building project serves gain from several societal and economic advantages. Here, we'll go through all of the main financial and societal advantages:

Social Benefits:

• Communication is improved because of HS2, enabling travel quicker and more effectively among major cities. Greater accessibility to work, education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities is made available as a result, which is beneficial to both locals and businesses. The increased connectedness facilitates interpersonal and cultural interactions, increases access to educational and medical services, and draws individuals closer to employment marketplaces.
• In the regions that it serves, HS2's development encourages industrial growth and development. The initiative raises the standard of living and increases economic activity by creating employment, stimulating regional economies, and luring investors. The project's higher demand for products and services benefits local firms, suppliers, and sectors. Further economic prospects for the surrounding community are made available by the growing infrastructure that supports it, including businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
• By shifting traffic from the road and air to the train, HS2 hopes to reduce congestion on the roads and at runways. In addition to improving the movement of people and products, it also lowers carbon emissions, increasing air quality and the sustainability of the environment. By lowering traffic, HS2 provides a more efficient and environmentally friendly transport option, cutting down on travel times and boosting cargo and commuter dependability. Lowering travel-related stress, boosting efficiency, and raising the standard of living in general, help the local community.
• The construction of extra stations along with associated equipment is a part of HS2. By offering step-free access, specific seats, and other conveniences that support diversity and equal opportunity, it improves accessibility for people with impairments. The project's dedication to access makes sure that everybody in the local area can take advantage of the better options for transportation and have a pleasant travel experience.

Financial Benefits:

• HS2's construction and operation provide a sizable number of employment opportunities, opening up career chances for the community. These positions are spread all through a number of industries, such as engineering, management of projects, activities, and repair. The initiative assists the local workforce become more skilled and trained, promoting steady employment and growth in skills.
• The local community receives substantial economic advantages from the HS2 project. It pulls in private capital and promotes regional company expansion. The project's boost in revenue has a multiplier impact that helps a variety of companies, vendors, and service providers. Local companies profit from an increasing need for products and services, which creates prospects for revenue growth and development.
• The construction of HS2 stations could act as an engine for tourist and urban renewal. By enhancing access and connection, HS2 can draw tourists to the region, thereby boosting tourism and opening up prospects to the hospitality, relaxation, and retail industries. This consequently produces more economic activity, possibilities for employment, and income for the local community.
• The value of properties in adjacent communities may increase as a consequence of HS2 (Harris, al. 2021). These places may become more appealing to people and companies with better transit and accessibility, which might raise demand for real estate and contribute to possible capital growth. Individuals who own property in the area gain from this, which could additionally raise municipal tax collections.

Reflection on the selected UK construction project

HS2 is a revolutionary initiative that will improve the UK's transport system by connecting key cities with a rapid rail network. It is an endeavour of tremendous significance since it can better connectivity, decrease journey times, and foster regional development. With HS2, the United Kingdom's rail network will have the urgently needed capacity boost while providing a viable and effective alternative to automobiles and flying. By promoting a shift in modes towards greener modes of transportation, the initiative seeks to increase economic growth, provide employment possibilities, and lessen its adverse environmental impacts.

I recommend ongoing interaction with stakeholders and local communities to address their issues and guarantee that their demands are met to enhance the project. In addition, it would be essential to incorporate effective mitigation strategies and sustainability practices during the planning, building, and operating phases. It will be possible to find possibilities for development and guarantee the project's successful conclusion with ongoing tracking and assessment of its progress and results.

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Conclusion

Although the private sector is motivated by revenue and consumer demand, the public sector is concerned with providing essential infrastructure and services to the entire population. For all parties involved with the construction industry such as contractors, shareholders, government organisations, and individuals—understanding the distinctions among these sectors is essential because it shapes their roles, duties, and strategies.

The HS2 project is an important investment in the United Kingdom's rail infrastructure to transform accessibility and foster long-term economic growth. To balance the advantages to the business and the environment, it will be executed after careful planning, building, and involvement of stakeholders. It's vital to keep in mind that the HS2 construction will take time to complete, and exact timeframes may change. The supplied completion predictions are based on the data that is currently available, but as the project moves along, modifications and changes to timeframes and tasks are likely.

The collaboration of these organisations of professionals helps the UK create a high-speed rail network that is modern, effective, and long-lasting. The high-speed Railway 2 (HS2) UK growth project benefits the community in several social and economic ways. It supports tourism and regeneration, encourages growth in the region, eases congestion, increases access, and can raise the cost of real estate. It also produces jobs and helps boost the economy.

References

Books and Journals

• Allen, E. and Iano, J., 2019.Fundamentals of building construction: materials and methods. John Wiley & Sons.
• Amudjie, J., Agyekum, K., Adinyira, E., Amos-Abanyie, S. and Kumah, V.M.A., 2023. Awareness and practice of the principles of circular economy among built environment professionals.Built Environment Project and Asset Management.13(1), pp.140-156.
• Borri, E., Zsembinszki, G. and Cabeza, L.F., 2021. Recent developments of thermal energy storage applications in the built environment: A bibliometric analysis and systematic review.Applied Thermal Engineering.189, p.116666.
• Çimen, Ö., 2021. Construction and built environment in circular economy: A comprehensive literature review.Journal of cleaner production,305, p.127180.
• Dixit, S., Stefa?ska, A., Musiuk, A. and Singh, P., 2021. Study of enabling factors affecting the adoption of ICT in the Indian built environment sector.Ain Shams Engineering Journal.12(2), pp.2313-2319.
• Ebekozien, A., Aigbavboa, C., Ikuabe, M. and Thwala, W.D., 2023. The built environment craftmanship in higher education institutions: issues and prospects from stakeholders' perception.Education+ Training.65(3), pp.492-509.
• Harris, F., McCaffer, R., Baldwin, A. and Edum-Fotwe, F., 2021.Modern construction management. John Wiley & Sons.
• Hewa Welege, N.M., Pan, W. and Kumaraswamy, M., 2021. Social network analysis applications in sustainable construction and built environment management: A review.Built Environment Project and Asset Management.11(4), pp.511-528.
• Mhatre, P., Gedam, V., Unnikrishnan, S. and Verma, S., 2021. Circular economy in the built environment–Literature review and theory development.Journal of building engineering. 35, p.101995.
• Raiden, A. and King, A., 2021. Social value, organisational learning, and the sustainable development goals in the built environment.Resources, Conservation and Recycling.172, p.105663.
• Sepasgozar, S.M., 2021. Differentiating digital twin from digital shadow: Elucidating a paradigm shift to expedite a smart, sustainable built environment.Buildings.11(4), p.151.
• Singley, P., 2019.How to Read Architecture: An Introduction to Interpreting the Built Environment. Routledge.
• Steele, D., Bild, E. and Guastavino, C., 2023. Moving past the sound-noise dichotomy: How professionals of the built environment approach the sonic dimension.Cities,132. p.103974.

Online

• High Speed Two Ltd. 2023. [Online]. [Available through]. :<https://www.hs2.org.uk/>.
• High Speed 2 (HS2) Railway, UK. 2020. [Online]. [Available through]. :< https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/high-speed-2-hs2/>. ‘
• Management Case for High Speed 2. 2023. Online. Available through: < https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/286741/management-case-hs2.pdf >.