[E]den District Council’s Building Control Officer, Darren Russell is celebrating after being awarded a 1st Hons degree (BSC) in Building Surveying by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN).
Darren (aged 51) was awarded the degree at a ceremony recently. This professional qualification means he can now be appointed a Senior Building Control Officer with the District Council. Darren also received the Best Overall Performance Award from the Chartered Institute of Builders.
Darren Russell said: “I have been studying towards the degree for the past three years and it was a lot of hard work, especially in the final year with the dissertation. Achieving this qualification means that I can join the Chartered Association of Building Engineers, which is the professional association membership required to become a Senior Building Control Officer.
“I have worked in the construction industry since the age of 16, starting as an apprentice bricklayer with Lowther and then working for other local firms, before going self-employed in 1988. For the past 10years I have worked for Eden District Council. Being a Local Authority Building Control Officer is the best job at the Council! The work is very varied and involves being out on site inspecting different jobs. My new role as a Senior Building Control Officer will mean a lot more responsibility.”
Every year, Local Authority Building Control in Eden District receives and deals with around 700 building regulations applications. These can vary from replacement windows to housing sites with hundreds of new homes to large commercial buildings. By obtaining professional advice and working with tradesman with the recognised industry qualifications the public can be reassured their building works are carried out to the appropriate standards.
Councillor John Owen MBE, Eden District Council’s Eden Development Portfolio Holder, said: “I would like to congratulate Darren on being awarded his Hons Degree from UCLAN. This is an excellent achievement and shows the continued investment the Council is making in the professional attainment of our officers. We have a fantastic Local Authority Building Control Team, who have a wealth of experience and knowledge to help ensure construction projects in Eden District are being carried out to the highest industry standards.”
For more information about Eden District Council’s Building Control Service visit www.eden.gov.uk or call 01768 817817.
