Puma Property Finance (Puma) has today announced it is providing a development facility for Glenmore’s most recent purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project in Dundee. The £25 million, 152-bed all-studio accommodation is located minutes away from both the University of Dundee and Abertay University, next to the city centre. The development
Keeping London’s streets running as smoothly as possible around roadworks has earned UK Power Networks a Gold Award for the third year in succession. Granted by the Considerate Contractors Streetworks judging panel of the City of London Corporation, UK Power Networks was found to have consistently exceeded the requirements of
Inspirational local women have been honoured with street names at a brand-new Orbit Homes development in Hastings. Eversfield Rise on Harrow Lane is a joint venture with modular housebuilder ilke Homes and will deliver 140 affordable properties. The five street names were selected in partnership with Hastings Borough Council and
Industry leader John Carlin joins as Regional Director for the Scottish arm of the business McLaughlin & Harvey – a privately-owned construction and civil engineering company employing over 800 in the UK and Ireland – has announced the appointment of John Carlin as a Regional Director, with responsibility for central
The entrance of a new development in Biddenham Park has been built to pay homage to the historic Bromham Bridge – a local landmark which dates back some 1000 years. Designers at Davidsons Homes have created the unusual undulating wall at the entrance to its Biddenham Park development near Bedford,
The appointment marks another framework win for the growing EV charging infrastructure specialist. Omega Red, a UK market leading earthing and EV charging solutions business, has recently been appointed as sole supplier on a new utility sector EV charging infrastructure framework, following a competitive tender process. Appointed by South Staffs
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed leading rolling stock engineering consultancy DB ESG to deliver its tram safety improvement programme. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) recommended that light rail networks deliver programmes to prevent the risk of serious accidents from tram over-speeding or driver inattention following the tragic
Trafford Council has approved plans to build a care home as part of the first wave of residential developments at Peel L&P’s Trafford Waters. The homes which will have on-site specialist facilities and amenities for people in need of dementia care. Specialist healthcare provider Montpelier Estates successfully applied for planning
Construction and engineering firm John Sisk & Son has been appointed by Sheffield City Council to carry out £25m-worth of city centre landscaping work. Sisk started work last month on a makeover for the Fargate area of Sheffield city centre. More than 2,500 sq of pocket parks will be created
Developer Watkin Jones has secured funds managed by KKR to build a 819-bed purpose-built student housing (PBSA) scheme in Bristol. The consideration will be payable to Watkin Jones over the course of the development located in Dalby Avenue, Bedminster, which is due for completion in August 2024. It includes an
Puma Property Finance (Puma) has today announced it is providing a development facility for Glenmore’s most recent purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project in Dundee. The £25 million, 152-bed all-studio accommodation is located minutes away from both the University of Dundee and Abertay University, next to the city centre. The development will be Puma’s third with Glenmore and will seek to alleviate a growing under supply of new build stock in the city, particularly amenity rich, studio accommodation. Construction has already commenced on site and the project expects to be completed in time for the start of the 2024/5 academic year. More broadly, this deal comes at a time of increasing demand for student accommodation,[i] with the number of first-year undergraduate students projected to increase and applicants potentially reaching one million by 2030. According to a recent Savills report, there are currently 31% fewer 5+ bed properties listed for rent in Q1 2023 compared with the pre-pandemic average, which has impacted accommodation options for students.[ii] Coupled with increasing demand from international students to study in the UK, PBSA developments are playing a significant role in addressing the demand and supply dynamics across the UK. Eliot Kaye, Managing Director at Puma Property Finance commented: “We are delighted to be working again with our trusted partner, Glenmore, to address the increasing demand for high-quality student accommodation in Dundee which has been historically undersupplied. PBSA is an asset class that we know well, and this development represents our sustained commitment to the sector. Andrew Whiteley of Glenmore Student Property commented: “Ensuring that students have high-quality living facilities is a crucial challenge that must be addressed if we are to enable those who wish to continue their education to do so. Through our continued work with Puma Property Finance, this PBSA development in Dundee will go some way to addressing the shortage of new build accommodation options in the area. Within walking distance from two universities, it will be well placed to serve student demands.” [i] Savills, UK Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Spotlight [ii] Savills, UK Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Spotlight Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Keeping London’s streets running as smoothly as possible around roadworks has earned UK Power Networks a Gold Award for the third year in succession. Granted by the Considerate Contractors Streetworks judging panel of the City of London Corporation, UK Power Networks was found to have consistently exceeded the requirements of their Code of Good Practice. The Code reflects a spirit of pride, an awareness of the needs of the passing public and regard for the surrounding environment. Companies were assessed on five subjects, by the panel: Planning & Coordination; Accountability and Response Time; Commitment to the Considerate Contractors Streetworks Scheme (CCSS) Ideal; Promotion and Innovation; and Investing in the city’s business plan. Staff picked up the award at the 35th Annual Considerate Contractor Scheme Awards Ceremony on Friday (May 19). Delivering quick and efficient roadworks across London earned the company two top industry awards from the City of London’s CCSS: a Gold Award for overall roadworks performance in 2020, and a Highly Commended Award for the same category in 2021. London streetworks manager Colin Smith at UK Power Networks, who won the Outstanding Individual Achievement Award in 2021 said: “The City of London Corporation CCS Scheme awards points across the year, which range from planning & co-ordination of works, response times to dealing with faults & our proactive communication with the City of London including their environmental department, especially on any unplanned works. “Justin Mandry and his team were praised for their excellent efforts with general repair work in and around the City from box re-builds, carriageway and footway cover repairs. “It’s nice for everyone involved to receive such recognition, the award acknowledges the hard work that is put in from all of our colleagues who carry out work in and around the City.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Inspirational local women have been honoured with street names at a brand-new Orbit Homes development in Hastings. Eversfield Rise on Harrow Lane is a joint venture with modular housebuilder ilke Homes and will deliver 140 affordable properties. The five street names were selected in partnership with Hastings Borough Council and recognise local women who had significant personal achievements or contributed to the Hastings community: Brian Nearney, Regional Managing Director at Orbit Homes, said: “We’re delighted to be paying tribute to these five inspirational local women. Naming streets in this way carries real significance and will help to build our new community, as well as reinforce its important links to the wider local area. We’re thrilled and proud to place their names at our new development and very much see this as a celebration of their achievements, that have helped inspire generations.” Matthew Suggitt, Development Director at ilke Homes, added: “In partnership with Orbit Homes, ilke are proud to be delivering an exemplar development employing the use of pioneering Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). Paying tribute to these local women’s trailblazing work and capturing it with permanence through the street naming of this innovative development is a fitting celebration of their resilience and relevance.” Cllr Maya Evans, Lead Member for Housing, commented: “Hastings is a town full of strong women both past and present, it’s very fitting to celebrate some of these incredible women by commemorating them in name with these much-needed high quality, sustainable, affordable homes, which are being delivered during an acute housing shortage. I have no doubt that these dwellings will be the birthplace of many more revolutionary women who challenge the status quo and strive for equality and justice. This is a proud and historical moment for Hastings.” Eversfield Rise will consist of 70 affordable rent and 70 shared ownership properties. A mixed tenure of apartments and houses will be offered, ranging in sizes from one to four-bedroom homes. Eighty-four of the properties will be zero-carbon, helping to protect consumers from rising energy bills. The new homes will be available from Autumn 2023. Orbit Homes currently has seven brand-new thriving communities underway in the South of England, comprising a range of affordable two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes. A choice of purchasing options are also available including market sale and shared ownership. To find out more about the properties on offer at your nearest Orbit Homes development, please visit: www.orbithomes.org.uk.
Industry leader John Carlin joins as Regional Director for the Scottish arm of the business McLaughlin & Harvey – a privately-owned construction and civil engineering company employing over 800 in the UK and Ireland – has announced the appointment of John Carlin as a Regional Director, with responsibility for central England. A proven leader in the construction industry, with over 40 years of experience, John has held Director and Managing Director roles in national and regional businesses for the last 20 years. He will be responsible for the operational delivery of regional projects and for building a commercial pipeline of future work using his extensive network of contacts. Paul Griffen, Managing Director, McLaughlin & Harvey, commented: “I’m delighted that John has agreed to join the business and help to grow our presence in the region. We already have several projects on the ground for blue-chip clients such as BMW, Rolls Royce and Etex, and have recently delivered Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, which was the centrepiece venue for the 2022 Commonwealth Games athletics programme and opening and closing ceremonies. Bringing John into the business now allows us to build on this solid foundation and I look forward to working with him and drawing on his considerable experience.” John’s experience has included senior positions with Wates and Bowmer & Kirkland and operational delivery on-site, having started his career as an apprentice joiner and working his way up as Site Manager and Project Manager. John Carlin, Regional Director, McLaughlin & Harvey, added: “My experience in the industry is extensive and varied. Since 2005, managing all aspects of a high-performing region within two highly regarded construction companies, I have gained invaluable insight and expertise in not only construction-related challenges but transferable skills to any kind of business in the region. I have been impressed by McLaughlin & Harvey’s professionalism and capabilities since joining, and I’m excited to be part of their continued growth.” Carlin will be based in McLaughlin & Harvey’s Birmingham office. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The entrance of a new development in Biddenham Park has been built to pay homage to the historic Bromham Bridge – a local landmark which dates back some 1000 years. Designers at Davidsons Homes have created the unusual undulating wall at the entrance to its Biddenham Park development near Bedford, taking inspiration from the ancient monument which is mentioned in records as far back as 1224 AD. Bromham Bridge has served as inspiration for artists and designers for centuries, with pieces using the landmark as a focal point. Davidsons Homes has even used a very similar light-coloured stone for its wall as the bridge, to ensure that its homage is as close as possible to the original. James Burnham, Managing Director for Davidsons Homes South Midlands, said: “We have always referred to ourselves, not just as housebuilders, but as placemakers. We realise that our developments should fit into the local landscape and enhance communities. That’s why, we couldn’t turn down an opportunity like this – to build an entrance which takes inspiration from a much-loved local landmark. “Our designers, and in particular Senior Architectural Technician Scott Chamberlain, have spent days researching the bridge’s history and unearthing fascinating bits of information which have helped them to create our own design. “We really hope that local people will see and appreciate this nod to the area’s history, and that in time, the wall will become a much-loved landmark in itself too.” Davidsons Homes is building new homes at Biddenham Park near Bedford, with the first showhome set to open this summer. For more information, visit davidsonshomes.co.uk.
The appointment marks another framework win for the growing EV charging infrastructure specialist. Omega Red, a UK market leading earthing and EV charging solutions business, has recently been appointed as sole supplier on a new utility sector EV charging infrastructure framework, following a competitive tender process. Appointed by South Staffs Water, the Omega Red team will deliver scheme feasibility and design, AC and DC (Fast and Rapid) charger installation and back-office provision that will help the business monitor and control infrastructure usage. The water company, which provides clean water to over half a million homes in the South Staffs region and more than 350,000 customers in Cambridge, has committed to electrify its small van fleet by 2025. With an initial 15 electric vehicles already on the fleet or imminent, the company is investing in the right infrastructure to ensure its teams can charge conveniently and effectively, supporting the business to continue to provide the essential services its customers expect. Phase one of the programme will see 4 rapid DC chargers and a number of AC chargers installed across the South Staff and Cambridge Water region. Iain Coleman, head of EV, Omega Red commented: “We are delighted to have been chosen by South Staffs Water to support this important environmental initiative and look forward to bringing our experience and guidance to support their programme to make sure they maximise the benefits of this investment.” Tom Fewster, asset management and investment delivery director, South Staffs Water added: “Electrifying our fleet is an important element of our customer promise to protect the environment and minimise our environmental impact as we go about providing our essential services. Ensuring we have the right infrastructure in place to keep our electric fleet moving is crucial, throughout the tender process, the Omega Red team was able to demonstrate their expertise and experience in this area and we look forward to working with them as we roll out our infrastructure programme.” Omega Red offers electric vehicle charging solutions right across the UK, supporting non-domestic clients with charging infrastructure concept, design, HV connection, installation, charging operations and maintenance. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed leading rolling stock engineering consultancy DB ESG to deliver its tram safety improvement programme. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) recommended that light rail networks deliver programmes to prevent the risk of serious accidents from tram over-speeding or driver inattention following the tragic event at Sandilands in Croydon where a tram overturned. Metrolink trams are already fitted with a device that applies the emergency brake in the event of a driver becoming incapacitated and the signalling system has several built-in protections. DB ESG working in partnership with Sella Controls, will design, install, test and commission the Driver Vigilance Devices (DVD) and Tram Overspeed Protection Systems (TOPS) to the Metrolink fleet of trams. To prevent over-speeding, Metrolink’s fleet of 147 trams will be equipped with the new systems that will use GPS and other information to determine the location and speed of the tram. The system utilises Sella Controls UK Rail approved Tracklink® III and EKE Electronics TRAINNET® technologies to provide the TOPS and DVD System. In the event of over-speeding, the driver will be alerted, and if there is no response the brakes will be applied automatically. The protection system will operate independently of other tram monitoring systems. To ensure drivers remain alert, an upgrade will be applied to the traction brake system and if no movement is detected input will be requested from the driver. Since the Croydon accident, TfGM and the Metrolink Operator – KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) – worked to progress the recommendations and introduced enhancements such as lower speed limits in key areas, additional hazard signage, an improved driver simulator used for training, enhanced medical standards and proactive speed monitoring. As the largest light rail network in the country, with more than 100km of track and 147 vehicles – which equates to just under half (46%) of the entire tram fleet in the UK – significant work has been done to explore new technology that will help to deliver the more complicated RAIB recommendations. This included use of the Metrolink network to trial solutions on behalf of the newly founded Light Rail Safety and Standards Board. This meticulous research was used to develop the specifications for the systems that DB ESG will now deliver. TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said: “The safety of our customers and staff is paramount, which is why we have robust safety and assurance practices built into the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the network. “Metrolink has an exemplary safety record, but following the tragedy in Croydon – and through the subsequent RAIB recommendations – we have taken steps to enhance this even further and have played an industry-leading role by participating in trials of innovative technology to monitor driver attention and vehicle over-speeding. “Metrolink is the largest and most complex light rail system in the country, and we’ve worked very closely with leading industry experts to ensure we get the right solution, and we look forward to working with DB ESG to deliver them.” Nick Goodhand, Managing Director at DB ESG, said: “We are pleased to be working with TfGM to deliver their critical Tram Safety Improvement Programme to implement the RAIB recommendations. The Tram Overspeed Protection System introduces an additional level of safety without impact to the normal service delivery or performance of the tram network.” Rob Nield, Business Development Manager at Sella Controls, said: “Following the successful delivery of the UK’s first SIL2 Light Rail Overspeed Prevention System, we are pleased to once again work closely with DB ESG, and newly TfGM, to deliver a solution which further bolsters the already outstanding Metrolink safety record.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Trafford Council has approved plans to build a care home as part of the first wave of residential developments at Peel L&P’s Trafford Waters. The homes which will have on-site specialist facilities and amenities for people in need of dementia care. Specialist healthcare provider Montpelier Estates successfully applied for planning permission to build an 85-bed care home at the Trafford Waters site which sits within TraffordCity, near to the Manchester Ship Canal and The Trafford Centre. Montpelier’s scheme will offer tailored dementia care and elderly living with a range of on-site facilities to encourage socialising in a comfortable, safe and supportive space. An on-site bistro café, hair salon, cinema and rooftop garden will all be created as part of the scheme in Trafford Waters. There will also be space for community events, relaxation and exercise for future residents to enjoy. Several parts of the facility will also be open to the wider public to encourage further interaction and community building. The homes will be some of the first 350 to be built at Trafford Waters. Montpelier’s plans are part of the first phase of Trafford Waters where Peel L&P has secured outline planning permission for 3,000 new homes to suit a range of needs, a primary school, hotels, offices and a new 20-acre public park to improve people’s health, wellbeing and access to nature. The project is estimated to create over 5,000 new jobs. Anna Ciesielska, Director of Montpelier Estates said: “We are very pleased with the planning decision to approve our bespoke residential and nursing care scheme at Trafford Waters. We are proud be working in partnership with Peel L&P to deliver this high-quality, much-needed, specialist home for the local community. “We understand that a decision to move to a care home is difficult for residents and their families. That’s why our developments are highly focused on creating spaces where people really want to spend their time and live, where they feel reassured, empowered, cared for, while allowing them to remain independent with good links to the community and local facilities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction and engineering firm John Sisk & Son has been appointed by Sheffield City Council to carry out £25m-worth of city centre landscaping work. Sisk started work last month on a makeover for the Fargate area of Sheffield city centre. More than 2,500 sq of pocket parks will be created that will catch, store, absorb and clear rainwater and run-off from roads and pavements. Parts of the greenery will also be for children’ play areas. The events area next to Leopold Street will be enlarged, with added features such as public water points and bespoke seating. Trade waste bins will be removed from the street and replaced by ‘buried bins’ accessible to delivery vehicles only at specific times via an automated rise and fall bollard system. The streetworks are designed to support Sheffield City Council’s plan to have more flats and offices in the upper floors of Fargate buildings. Known as the ‘Front Door Scheme’, separate front door entrances will be installed to buildings, enabling easier access to previously hidden parts of Fargate. The project is funded by the South Yorkshire Combined Authority through the £50m Transforming Cities Fund. Completion is expected in summer 2024. Sisk’s UK Civils managing director Dominic Hodges said: “Sisk is delighted that we’ve reached this important milestone and that funding has now been secured to construct the scheme. We’ll be working closely with local businesses and residents throughout construction to ensure this work causes minimum disruption.” “We’re pleased to be working with Sheffield County Council on this scheme which will enhance Fargate and help to make the high street more sustainable.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developer Watkin Jones has secured funds managed by KKR to build a 819-bed purpose-built student housing (PBSA) scheme in Bristol. The consideration will be payable to Watkin Jones over the course of the development located in Dalby Avenue, Bedminster, which is due for completion in August 2024. It includes an initial net cash receipt for Watkin Jones of around £25 million. KKR is making the investment through its European Core Plus Real Estate strategy, which focuses on thematic investments in high-quality, substantially stabilised assets with long-term growth potential. Upon completion, the 819-bed scheme will be fully leased to The University of Bristol on a long-term basis. The development will deliver a mix of 5-12 bed cluster flats together with around 15,000 sq.ft. of internal amenity space and considerable external amenity space including a private terrace, courtyard, and gardens. The site has transport links to the University campuses and is located close to Bedminster train station and within walking distance to Bristol’s city centre. With two established universities in the city, Bristol continues to be a leading destination of choice for students in higher education. However, accommodation in the UK’s eighth largest city is stretched across both the build-to-rent (BtR) and PBSA markets. The creation of the new major PBSA development in Bedminster is important in helping the city to address the on-going and increasing demand for student accommodation. The PBSA scheme is located in one of the five key sites identified in Bristol City Council’s Bedminster Green Framework as a priority for redevelopment. Alex Pease, Chief Investment Officer, Watkin Jones, said: “We are delighted to have secured our second deal with KKR, and would like to thank them for their efforts and partnership approach in reaching this agreement. This is an exciting opportunity to develop a key area of regeneration in the Bedminster area of Bristol for the ever-growing student needs in the city. “The sale is further evidence of the attractive investment and operational fundamentals of both PBSA as a sector and Bristol as a city and a good sign of investment markets re-opening. “Watkin Jones has a strong track record of developing PBSA schemes in Bristol as rising demand continues, including work recently completed at Wilder Street and Unity Street last year, in addition to work currently underway on a PBSA site on Gas Lane. “We are really excited as Bristol is widely regarded as one of the UK’s top university towns for education but also it represents one of the most vibrant and inclusive cities for students to live. Offering a wide range of bars, shops, and restaurants, it is a city for students to enjoy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
