Students get insight into industry – at last

Mar 14 2008 by Chris Knox, The Journal

TWO students have spent eight days learning the tricks of the construction trade by working with construction firm McInerney Homes at its Bishops Park housing development.

Peter Sagar and Lloyd Harrison, who are both in their second year of architectural studies at Newcastle University, were turned down by a number of the region’s housebuilders before approaching McInerney Homes, and witnessed the fitting of a number of solar panels to the eco-friendly houses.

Peter said: “Having previously approached other builders we were afraid that the health and safety risks were too great for us to be allowed on to any site.

“McInerney Homes, however, not only welcomed us on to their site, they also gave us a full briefing on site safety, and fully equipped us with every item of compulsory safety gear.”

Work started on the Gateshead site in December and will see the construction of 195 green homes, comprising 22 two-bedroom houses, 132 three-bedroom houses, 11 four bedroom houses and 30 apartments.

Sandra Greenup, sales executive at McInerney Homes, which has offices in Houghton-le-Spring, said: “I couldn’t believe when they said they hadn’t been granted access on a building site before.

“I was determined to show them McInerney Homes is willing to help the future of our industry. All it took was a bit of time and input on our behalf to ensure they were fully briefed on health and safety.”