UK's first virtual construction site goes live

The £8.7m ACT-UK Simulation Centre in Coventry utilises advanced computer simulation and professional actors to replicate a construction site in exact detail.

Trainees have to deal with demanding site management scenarios - based on real-life situations - with site personnel, colleagues, and members of the public played by actors.

Twelve delegates from Balfour Beatty have completed a three-day pilot course at the Coventry University Technology Park, which it is hoped will help transform construction training in the UK.

Human resources director for Balfour Beatty Construction Scottish and Southern Adam Parker said: “This takes our development and training to a different level. Using VR enables us to put our trainee project managers in a live environment without exposing them to any risks. This kind of cutting-edge training also makes us a very attractive proposition for graduates looking to come into the industry.”

Balfour Beatty sub-agent Dariusz Mrugala said: “This is the best training I have ever had - I really enjoyed it. In the next 10 or 20 years this type of training will be standard in the industry.”

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