Chancerygate has been granted planning permission to build 110,000 sq ft of Grade A urban logistics and industrial space in Chadderton, near Oldham. Called Broadway Central, the speculative development will comprise eight units across two terraces ranging from 7,600 sq ft to 18,200 sq ft and one stand-alone unit of
Project 80 will be a ‘living lab’ to test how to achieve the Future Homes Standard… Baxi air source heat pumps are to be used in a pioneering project, launched today, to implement low carbon heating in new houses. From 2025, the proposed Future Homes Standard will ban gas boilers
Jackie Priestley, Assistant Site Manager at Harron Homes’ Highfield Manor development in Fixby, Yorkshire –which won Harron development of the year 2022-, can attest to the progress made in the construction industry mindset over the past few decades. Jackie got her start in the industry as an apprentice plasterer over
For this year’s International Women’s Day, Parker Building Supplies, Chandlers Building Supplies and Fairalls celebrate some of the inspirational women that are leading the way within the business and helping to smash stereotypes. Allun Pittingale, MD of the Independent Builders Merchant Group, said: “Working in a male dominated environment these
Eleanor Ogilvie, from Stockport, joined MCI Developments in 2019 as a Land & Partnerships Manager, and within 3 years has been able to achieve her goal of Head of department at just 27 years old. The promotion reflects Eleanor’s ambition to identify additional development opportunities, and during her time at
In an industry long perceived as male dominated, North Midlands house builder Harron Homes are always looking to encourage talented women into their workforce to become a successful female architect. Architectural Technologist, Philippa Bargh, attests to how she has thrived in her career in construction and house building. Female architect
Two high-profile commercial spaces are available for lease in Uxbridge’s vibrant town centre. As part of the redevelopment of the renowned former Randalls department store by Inland Homes, two brand new premises prominently located within this Grade II listed conversion on the corner of Vine Street, totalling over 8,500 sq
Chancerygate has been granted planning permission to build 110,000 sq ft of Grade A urban logistics and industrial space in Chadderton, near Oldham. Called Broadway Central, the speculative development will comprise eight units across two terraces ranging from 7,600 sq ft to 18,200 sq ft and one stand-alone unit of 27,000 sq ft. Units are available freehold or leasehold and the scheme will have a gross development value of around £20m. Chancerygate acquired the 6.58-acre site last July for £3.8m from FO Developments which is a consortium comprising Oldham Council, Grasscroft Property and Seddon Developments. Construction is scheduled to commence in May with practical completion expected early next year. The consortium delivered the wider Broadway Green development which is a 121-acre mixed-use scheme on former agricultural land. Once complete, it will provide up to 700,000 sq ft of employment space. In addition, 500 new homes and 25 acres of public open space in a linear park. Chancerygate development manager, Andy Farrer, said: “We’re very pleased to have obtained planning to deliver Broadway Central just nine months after our acquisition. This is a testament to the hard work of our team and the positive and pragmatic attitude of Oldham Council. “Broadway Central is in an excellent location where there is very little supply of new, high-specification industrial units. Therefore, this development is best placed to help satisfy the strong demand for Grade A urban logistics and industrial space that there is for businesses operating both locally and throughout the North West region.” Agents for Broadway Green are Davies Harrison and Avison Young. You can learn more about Chancerygate’s live developments here. < Back to News
Project 80 will be a ‘living lab’ to test how to achieve the Future Homes Standard… Baxi air source heat pumps are to be used in a pioneering project, launched today, to implement low carbon heating in new houses. From 2025, the proposed Future Homes Standard will ban gas boilers in new build homes and require more stringent building energy efficiency requirements – all with the aim of reducing carbon emissions by 80%. Two complete Baxi Assure air source heat pump systems will be installed at ‘Project 80’ in Handsworth, Birmingham, which aims to meet the Future Homes Standard three years ahead of schedule. The project is led by housing association Midland Heart. The houses will be lived in by families and will be a ‘living lab’ to test how they manage in their futuristic homes. The evidence gathered will help to inform how developers and their suppliers adapt to the standard ahead of an expected technical consultation in 2023. Air source heat pumps are a low-carbon energy technology that reverses the refrigeration process to take the warmth from the air outside (even when it’s freezing) and use it to heat homes. The homes are due for completion by Easter 2022, three years ahead of the Government’s target. Baxi Air Source Heat Pump Development Manager Ryan Kirkwood said: “Our involvement in Project 80 will demonstrate how our air source heat pumps can make an important contribution to lowering greenhouse gas emissions in new homes. “We will also gain insights from monitoring how people adapt to living in these homes that will help us to solve the complex energy transition.” Baxi is already supporting customers by offering clever heating solutions that keep their homes and businesses warm while reducing their carbon footprint. It is continuing to develop products and solutions that will help customers to heat their homes and businesses without warming the planet. For more information, visit www.baxiheating.co.uk
Jackie Priestley, Assistant Site Manager at Harron Homes’ Highfield Manor development in Fixby, Yorkshire –which won Harron development of the year 2022-, can attest to the progress made in the construction industry mindset over the past few decades. Jackie got her start in the industry as an apprentice plasterer over 20 years ago, and after 10 years of plastering, and a stint teaching she moved into site management and joined Harron in 2021. “College was the toughest time for me. I was the only girl on my course and definitely got treated differently for that. “Things have fortunately changed over the years and people are much more accepting than they used to be. “Out of all the companies I’ve worked at, Harron is definitely the most progressive which I think is mostly down to the fantastic higher management team. I’m a keen yoga teacher, and when I’ve talked to the office team and the guys on site about doing a session for the mental health benefits they’ve all been receptive which I think just shows how open-minded Harron’s environment is. “I have seen a lot of bias in the industry, people used to assume all sorts about me including my sexuality, but there isn’t that pressure to be ‘one of the lads’ at Harron. I’m a very feminine person, and I haven’t felt less respected because of that. “I think the biggest way to combat the inequalities is by simply normalizing women’s presence. A lot of it comes down to a change in mindset; most of the sexist comments I get are from the older generation, while my son wouldn’t think twice about seeing a woman on site. “There’s still a way to go – I’m the only woman working on my site, besides the sales team – but I’ve never felt so supported and encouraged in such a positive environment.” Harron Homes is always on the lookout for talented people to join their team and help grow the thriving business. See the latest vacancies and apply here.
For this year’s International Women’s Day, Parker Building Supplies, Chandlers Building Supplies and Fairalls celebrate some of the inspirational women that are leading the way within the business and helping to smash stereotypes. Allun Pittingale, MD of the Independent Builders Merchant Group, said: “Working in a male dominated environment these women demonstrate the best of equality and how women within our group of builders merchants are thriving and leading from the front in all areas of the business.” Emma Goodship is used to surprising people at work. Turning up in her 26 tonne HGV to building sites, she’s often greeted with a startled look by builders! Originally from Brockham village, Emma, 36, now lives in Horley working for Fairalls builders merchants in Gatwick. Having worked in the equestrian sector for many years, Emma took a break to travel around Australia in 2011. It was here that she noticed the enormous trucks that traverse the immense continent. This sparked her interest in investigating a career change. Emma said: “I thought to myself, I could do that – I could drive those trucks and I think I’d really enjoy it.” On her return to the UK, Emma successful passed her Class 2 (rigid) and Class 1 (artic) at first attempt. She has been working with Fairalls Builders Merchant for the past five years. Emma said that her mother is the woman who has most inspired her. “My mum has always been the one to say ‘give it a go’. From when I was young she was always keen for us to try new things, whether it was learning guitar or riding a horse. She’s been great.” “I love my job at Fairalls. I love driving. Of course there has been a bit of skepticism from some men about my driving a HGV, but not anymore. They know that I am pretty good at my job. In fact some builders request me in particular to do their delivery. I’m good at getting into tricky areas and also my truck has the largest crane for deliveries! “By virtue of my job, and how well I do it, I feel I’m helping to break stereotypes of what a women’s career should look like. I’m happy about that. Long may it continue.” Milly Boden – Branch Manager Designate Parker Building Supplies, East Grinstead. Milly Boden, 30, has been working in the builders merchant sector for seven years. When she first started in the sector her role was in counter sales. Since then Milly has swiftly moved up the career ladder and is now helping to manage the East Grinstead branch of Parker Building Supplies. When asked what attracted her to work in the builders merchant sector, Milly says that she likes a challenge. “The fast paced, competitive, rough and ready construction industry – who wouldn’t want to be a part of that life!” She says that the countless women, in every sector, that have worked hard to build something successful, inspire her everyday to achieve more and always aim high. “These are women who fight against bias and boss it anyway,” she said. Her advice to other women wishing to join the builders merchant sector, is: “Go for it! Learn as much as you can to be the best at what you do. Stick up for yourself. Nobody, man or woman, wakes up knowing the ins and out of the construction industry – men have to learn, women have to learn.” “Working in a very male dominated sector can be challenging but in a fun way! There is still an element of ‘surprise’ that women, like me, can be very knowledgeable about everything to do with building and construction. I’m not sure why this ‘element of surprise’ should still be around. However, it is improving. “It is always empowering when the hard work you have put in pays off! For this International Women’s Day let’s continue to #BreakTheBias. Women can do everything that men do – and often better.”
Eleanor Ogilvie, from Stockport, joined MCI Developments in 2019 as a Land & Partnerships Manager, and within 3 years has been able to achieve her goal of Head of department at just 27 years old. The promotion reflects Eleanor’s ambition to identify additional development opportunities, and during her time at MCI Developments has purchased and facilitated land opportunities, resulting in the delivery of over 650 much-needed affordable dwellings across the North West. Having started her career in the construction industry in 2015, Eleanor has been able to quickly progress in the industry, and as Head of Land & Partnerships, she will be responsible for leading the department to acquire and deliver residential development sites, with an aim of 500 homes per year in the region. Often stereotyped as an all-male industry, Eleanor’s promotion marks a progressive step forward as the industry is slowly becoming more diverse, particularly in managerial roles. Eleanor Ogilvie commented: “I’m immensely proud to be leading the Land & Partnerships team here at MCI Developments. I’m looking forward to strengthening the Land Team and continuing the success of delivering much-needed affordable housing across the North West of England. “I decided I wanted to pursue a career within the construction industry whilst I was at university. I thoroughly enjoyed the regeneration modules, and it sparked an interest in me to learn more about the property and construction industry. For me, being knowledgeable in the industry and being able adapt to new challenges has helped progress my career quickly.” With an aim to open more doors to women within the construction industry, Eleanor Ogilvie has been a member of Women in Property for five years, and Chair for the organisation in the North West for 2021/2022. The organisation plays an important role in creating opportunities, expanding knowledge, and advocating for change among women working in the property and construction industry, and during Eleanor’s tenure as Chair, membership grew by 60%. Eleanor added: “It has been an honour to lead the committee and drive for a better industry. I started my tenure as Chair very much still in lockdown and had to adapt to the circumstances to ensure our members were connected through virtual events. Over the past year the organisation has gone from strength to strength and that’s all down to the hard work and input from our members, committee and sponsors. It has been both highly rewarding and a privilege to be able to support women at all stages of their construction careers. “My advice to women who are interested in starting their career within the industry would be to be yourself and take up every opportunity as and when they arrive, you never know where it may take you. I’m an advocate that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything.” Alex Wood, Regional Managing Director at MCI Developments, said: “It’s great to see Eleanor take on the position as Head of Land & Partnerships here at MCI Developments. Her achievement is testament to the crucial work she plays within the construction industry and marks an exciting new chapter for the company. “Eleanor is a true inspiration to other women, and her achievement clearly demonstrates the important role women play in the construction sector. We’re confident that with Eleanor’s proven track record of success, she will play a significant role in our continued growth plans by identifying key areas to build new beginnings and flourishing communities here in the North West.”
In an industry long perceived as male dominated, North Midlands house builder Harron Homes are always looking to encourage talented women into their workforce to become a successful female architect. Architectural Technologist, Philippa Bargh, attests to how she has thrived in her career in construction and house building. Female architect Philippa, 29, has worked at Harron for four years and has worked in construction for eight years. She was drawn into housebuilding during her time at a ‘multi-disciplinary practice’. “During my time there I began to head up small residential projects for developers and it was this experience that made me want to join Harron Homes and develop my career within the sector. “At Harron I take site feasibility layouts, and conduct an architectural review with the rest of the team to develop the layout in readiness for planning. This is to ensure our sites are aesthetically pleasing, buildable and meet the Local Authorities various design guides to ensure a swift approval. “Following planning approval, I produce the sites construction drawings. My role also includes keeping house type drawings up to date, ensuring these meet current building regulations.” This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #BreakTheBias, and Philippa has an interesting take on negative biases that need to be challenged in the industry: “I haven’t experienced much bias in my career – my gender has certainly never held me back from pursuing my passion in architecture. I guess this shows the industry is moving in the right direction. “However, I have had it assumed previously that I am an admin assistant because of my gender – and this was by a female – so it very much isn’t just men who need to progress in their mindset. I would say as a woman, there are times where you need to prove your worth and be assertive, but if you are knowledgeable, it never takes long to be respected just the same as your male colleagues.” Harron strives to create a culture which is fair and equal to all, and Philippa feels that this is making a difference in the workplace. “In terms of the physical construction side of things, yes, it is male-dominated. In terms of everything leading up to the build however, I think it is very much an even split – or at least it is here at Harron Homes. “I don’t believe it’s necessarily important to encourage women specifically into this industry, but it is important to publicise the vast array of roles this industry does cover and ensure they are accessible to all. With the right publicity, anyone can make an informed career choice that suits them.” Philippa’s advice for any women who are considering a career in the construction industry is “Just go for it! I think there’s a lack of knowledge about all of the opportunities that are available, and everyone in the industry could do more. The industry is vast and varied; brick laying, drawing, managing, sales, commercial, customer care. You don’t need a degree – you need enthusiasm and it’s that drive that can take you where you want to be in the industry irrelevant of your gender.”
Two high-profile commercial spaces are available for lease in Uxbridge’s vibrant town centre. As part of the redevelopment of the renowned former Randalls department store by Inland Homes, two brand new premises prominently located within this Grade II listed conversion on the corner of Vine Street, totalling over 8,500 sq ft, are now ready for occupation. Following the closure of the family-owned department store in 2015, this local art deco landmark sat empty until developer Inland Homes set to breathe life back into building and the town centre itself. Sympathetically transformed, the iconic Vine Street façade has been preserved and many features retained to deliver these two special commercial opportunities right in the heart of Uxbridge. The commercial space at Randalls forms part of the building’s redevelopment into a prestigious mixed-use development also housing 58 stylish new apartments. It is this close mix of the residential and commercial space that has contributed to the success of the development, where more than 80% of the homes are already sold. Uxbridge is a thriving retail centre that has benefitted from a £2 million boost from the Mayor of London to help regenerate the town centre over the past few years. The location of Randalls is a big part of its appeal, just a moment from the bustling high street and The Chimes shopping centre, previously known as Intu Uxbridge, which has a wide range of well-known retailers and leisure facilities. Randalls is also conveniently situated close to Uxbridge underground station served by the Metropolitan and Piccadilly lines, with a station on the new Elizabeth Line set to open at nearby West Drayton later this year. Of the two Class E commercial spaces available to rent at Randalls, the larger is split across the ground floor and first floor offering 7,834 sq ft in total, ideally suited to a restaurant operator. The second space is located solely on the ground floor and measures 932 sq ft. Des Wicks, Group Land Director from Inland Homes, comments: “Over the past two years we have really seen a move towards people wanting to stay and shop local, something that has benefitted Uxbridge. In this town centre, we’ve already demonstrated that a high-profile, aspirational development such as the transformation of Randalls can bring with it wider regeneration. We are not only giving a new lease of life to the former department store but also encouraging people back to the high street with brand new commercial space. These units would suit businesses such as restaurants or destination retailers who want to put themselves at the heart of a thriving community and play a part in the next phase of the Randalls story.” For further information on the commercial property opportunities available at Randalls, please contact commercial property advisers at Jaggard Macland LLP, Bill Harrington on 01494 689 602 or Connor Harrington on 01494 689 604 Information about the new homes at Randalls can be found here: www.inlandhomes.co.uk/developments/randalls
