Robertson Group becomes first CCS Ultra Site in Scotland

Construction of the new world-class Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre has been recognised as a beacon of best practice, and designated Ultra Site status, by the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

Robertson Group's construction of the Aberdeen Exhibtion & Conference Centre (AECC) has been designated national Ultra Site status - the highest level of attainment with the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

Robertson Group has achieved the hugely prestigious Ultra Site status by taking considerate construction to the highest level through spearheading increased collaboration and raising industry standards within the project's supply chain.

The multi-million pound AECC project - a joint venture between Henry Boot Developments and Aberdeen City Council - will deliver a new world-class facility for Scotland. The 12,500-seat arena will host major events including, conferences, exhibitions and music concerts.

As well as building the new arena and conference centre and one of three on-site hotels, Robertson Group is also undertaking site preparatory works including ground and infrastructure works.

During the construction period, which commenced in August 2016 and is due to complete in 2019, 600 new jobs will be created, including a number of new apprenticeships.

Considerate Constructors Scheme Chief Executive Edward Hardy said: "Being designated Ultra Site status for the AECC project is a momentous achievement for Robertson Group, its clients Henry Boot Construction and Aberdeen City Council, and its associated supply chain.

"Since the introduction of Ultra Sites as a pilot in July 2015, only 11 out of over 14,000 registered sites within this period have received Ultra Site status, clearly demonstrating how AECC site is a beacon of best practice within the UK construction industry.

"Robertson Group is working relentlessly to drive even greater collaboration within its supply chain. This commitment has resulted in a huge number of benefits for the construction workforce, local community and environment – all helping to raise standards to improve the image of the construction industry."

Robertson Group's Chief Operating Officer, Derek Shewan added: This recognition is part of Robertson Group's strategic approach to developing our business, in recognising the importance of collaboration and integration of, not only our supply chain, but also the local community. The AECC project demonstrates our commitment to CCS and the award of Ultra Site status is an outstanding achievement for everyone involved in this landmark project.

"Our achievement is testament to the project delivery team and their commitment to teamwork and collaboration across the supply chain. It is wonderful to have this independently recognised and I am certain that our success on-site to date is in large part thanks to this approach.

"Working in this way delivers economic, social and environmental benefits and all three are considered in all that we do on-site at the AECC."

Aberdeen City Council finance, policy and resources committee convener Councillor Douglas Lumsden said: "The quality of the new exhibition and conference centre for Aberdeen is extremely important for the development as we want to anchor existing international events and compete nationally and internationally for new events, as well as by broadening the appeal of the north-east to a global audience.

"The new AECC will be a world-class destination which will help to grow and bolster the local economy while attracting major artists and events to the city, so we are delighted that Robertson Construction has been awarded the accolade for raising the industry's standards."

Nick Harris, Director at Henry Boot Developments said: "Working collaboratively is key to a successful project, so we're absolutely delighted that our main contractor Robertson has achieved Ultra Site status on the new AECC. Both Henry Boot Developments and Robertson Construction are committed to achieving high standards on every aspect of this flagship new facility for Aberdeen and the north east, and having Ultra Site status demonstrates that the project has reached exemplary levels of best practice in terms of community, workforce and the environment."