Manchester Networking Breakfast

2 December 2025

The University Design Forum hosted a successful networking breakfast at AtkinsRéalis, Manchester, on 2nd December 2025, bringing together professionals to discuss design quality and compliance in Higher Education environments. The event featured a key presentation on the Building Safety Act, delivered by Stephen Workman, Technical Director at AtkinsRéalis and Sam Godfrey, Senior Design Manager at Tilbury Douglas. Stephen and Sam outlined practical strategies for implementing the Act’s principles, emphasising duty holder responsibilities and maintaining the 'golden thread' of building information throughout project lifecycles. The talk highlighted the importance of embedding safety and compliance from design through delivery, bridging gaps between regulatory intent and operational practice, as well as highlighting recent examples of opportunities and challenges when working within the Act. Attendees engaged in discussions on competency requirements, impartiality in design reviews and insurance considerations, and PAS 8671:2022 guidance. The session reinforced the Forum’s commitment to promoting safe, efficient and sustainable university buildings while fostering collaboration across the sector.

University Design Forum extend its thanks to the host and supporters; AtkinsRéalis and Tilbury Douglas.