Experts from the Centre for Infrastructure Management (CIM) delivered the successful professional development course, which focused on both technical knowledge and practical skills in a wide range of key areas.

Topics included the benefits of employing fibre-reinforced composites to strengthen concrete structures, how to apply concrete repair materials to damaged elements and the employment of cathodic protection techniques on concrete and heritage structures.

Professor Pal Mangat from CIM commented, "The event was very successful and delegates learned a lot. It is important that people attend these events in order keep up abreast with new techniques and developments". Feedback from delegates was also very positive, "... the event was very well run with a good combination of classroom and hands-on practical sessions replicating what is carried out on site", said one delegate. "It was apparent the presenters had a very wide knowledge of their subject".

A number of the industry’s professionals assisted the CIM experts in delivering the course. Ken Dykes of specialist main contractor Concrete Repairs Limited explained the use of carbon fibre plate bonding techniques for bridge strengthening. Mike Threadgold and Darren Priddle from manufacturer Degussa Construction Chemicals (UK) demonstrated how to install hand-applied repair materials to damaged elements and John Aveling of Ryan Contracting Ltd, carried out a sprayed concrete demonstration.