March 12, 2024
Independent games retailer set to open new HQ at Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park as construction starts on Phase 2

Independent games retailer set to open new HQ at Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park as construction starts on Phase 2

Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park is set to become the new headquarters for Wayland Games, Europe’s largest independent retailer for tabletop hobbies, with construction underway for 50,000 sq ft of high-quality warehouse space. The start on site was marked with a groundbreaking ceremony as Goodman and construction partner, Magrock, launched

Read More »
A Royal Staycation: Red Construction Group Tops Out New Hotel at Warwick Castle for Merlin Entertainments

A Royal Staycation: Red Construction Group Tops Out New Hotel at Warwick Castle for Merlin Entertainments

RED Construction Group, the specialist main contractor, has celebrated the topping out of the Warwick Castle Hotel, the newest addition to Warwick Castle’s already impressive accommodation offering made up of Woodland Lodges, Medieval Glamping and Tower Suites. The medieval-themed holiday resort named the ‘Knight’s Village’ also features a banqueting hall,

Read More »
New state-of-the-art facility to enhance Pendle’s police service underway

New state-of-the-art facility to enhance Pendle’s police service underway

THE multi-million-pound project to enhance policing services in East Lancashire has officially commenced, following the completion of enabling works on site. Located in Carr Road, Nelson, the new police station will bring together and replace existing stations in Colne and Nelson, providing a new home for Pendle’s policing operations under

Read More »
Bellway invites the public to explore Fallow Wood View, a cutting-edge low-carbon housing development in Burgess Hill. Nestled within the larger Brookleigh scheme, this eco-friendly venture features 247 homes built using advanced Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), presenting a blend of efficiency and sustainability. Departing from conventional blockwork, Fallow Wood View employs timber frames and panels, a progressive approach to construction that aligns with Bellway's commitment to environmentally conscious building practices. Positioned on the eastern stretch of the Brookleigh site, the initial phase of Fallow Wood View spans 13 acres adjacent to Isaacs Lane, encompassing 222 homes along with public spaces like a pocket park and village green, fostering a sense of community. Bellway's dedication to swift, eco-friendly construction methods is evident in this phase. Daniel Williamson, Sales Director for Bellway South London, highlighted the development's sustainability, stating, "Fallow Wood View is a sustainable development where we are constructing all the homes employing quicker modern methods of construction (MMC). This forward-thinking process not only cuts down the build time and improves energy efficiency but also makes use of a more sustainable material in the form of timber." The timber used in construction adheres to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards, ensuring responsible sourcing practices that preserve biodiversity and support local communities. Research indicates a 31% reduction in carbon emissions against current building regulations, with all properties meeting the Future Homes Standard. Each home incorporates renewable technologies such as electric vehicle charging points, solar panels, or air source heat pumps. Sales of properties at Fallow Wood View have commenced, with the first homes in the Brookleigh neighbourhood available for open-market purchase. The development has garnered significant interest due to its innovative construction methods and sustainability features. Brookleigh, also known as the Northern Arc, spearheaded by Homes England, envisions a comprehensive community with up to 3,500 new homes, educational facilities, healthcare amenities, business spaces, and recreational areas. A new link road will connect Fallow Wood View's phases, facilitating access to a 40-acre site on Freeks Lane, where further developments and extensions to Bedelands Nature Reserve are planned. Fallow Wood View's 247 homes include 172 properties for private sale and 75 affordable homes for local residents through low-cost rent and shared ownership. With construction well underway, the first residents are anticipated to move into their completed homes in June 2024, marking a significant milestone in Burgess Hill's sustainable urban development.

Bellway Unveils Sustainable Living Oasis at Fallow Wood View, Burgess Hill

Bellway invites the public to explore Fallow Wood View, a cutting-edge low-carbon housing development in Burgess Hill. Nestled within the larger Brookleigh scheme, this eco-friendly venture features 247 homes built using advanced Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), presenting a blend of efficiency and sustainability. Departing from conventional blockwork, Fallow Wood

Read More »
YASA to move UK HQ to Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter

YASA to move UK HQ to Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter

YASA, the wholly owned Mercedes-Benz subsidiary electric motor specialist, has agreed to pre-let three landmark connected buildings for its UK HQ in the new Innovation Quarter at Bicester Motion, the 444-acre estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire, home to mobility businesses past, present and future to help pioneer a sustainable mobility future.

Read More »
First images of HS2’s biggest ‘green bridge’

First images of HS2’s biggest ‘green bridge’

HS2 yesterday revealed new images of the project’s largest ‘green bridge’, which will cross the high-speed railway near Brackley. The 99m-wide bridge is designed to take a local road over the new railway close to the village of Turweston, which is on the outskirts of Brackley, with new hedgerows and

Read More »
Rendall & Rittner appoints new Head Of Consultancy

Rendall & Rittner appoints new Head Of Consultancy

Leading property management agent Rendall & Rittner has recently promoted Ross Facta to the position of Head of Consultancy. Ross’ role will see him lead on the consultancy of a range of residential and mixed-use projects from concept design through to ongoing management. Ross began his career in property, managing

Read More »
Plans revealed for Chorlton Library refurbishment

Plans revealed for Chorlton Library refurbishment

Major refurbishment plans for Chorlton Library in Manchester have been revealed to enhance the existing structure of the building and the fabulous dome hidden for years will be unveiled when it reopens. The library closes its door for two weeks on 24 March and will reopen with a temporary reduced

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 322 : Nov 2024

March 12, 2024

Independent games retailer set to open new HQ at Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park as construction starts on Phase 2

Independent games retailer set to open new HQ at Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park as construction starts on Phase 2

Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park is set to become the new headquarters for Wayland Games, Europe’s largest independent retailer for tabletop hobbies, with construction underway for 50,000 sq ft of high-quality warehouse space. The start on site was marked with a groundbreaking ceremony as Goodman and construction partner, Magrock, launched the development’s second phase. Located just three miles from Junction 29 of the M25, the purpose-built facility will provide space for Wayland Games to meet growing customer demand and enhance operational efficiency. The increased warehouse capacity will allow the retailer to stock more products, streamline its operations and use the latest technology to optimise inventory management, order fulfilment, and e-commerce logistics. To enable the company’s continued expansion, a sizeable mezzanine will provide office space and a dedicated production area, including a new creative studio for the company’s own brand Warcradle Studios. The building will also feature a communal space for the local gaming community to meet and play their favourite games. In line with Goodman’s focus on sustainability, the high-specification unit will be built to a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ specification and will target an A+ rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Other features include solar PV to help contribute to the building’s power needs, innovative SolarWall® technology for heating office areas, and rainwater harvesting. Richard Lawford, Managing Director at Wayland Games, said: “Construction of this new facility marks a significant moment in our history. The purpose-built space will allow us to drive greater operational efficiencies while catering for future business growth. As part of our commitment to sustainability, it will also help us lower our energy use and continue to support us in reducing our carbon footprint.” Chris Beamer, Associate Director – Development at Goodman, added: “London Brentwood Commercial Park is already proving popular and has seen aviation supply chain specialist, Farsound, and global 3PL, OMLog, basing their UK operations here. We’re excited to be working with Wayland Games to deliver a state-of-the-art facility that will support the company’s expansion and help meet growing customer demand.” Goodman’s London Brentwood Commercial Park provides access to world-class multimodal infrastructure, combined with excellent connectivity to UK, European and global markets. Logistics and distribution businesses can benefit from proximity to the major east coast sea ports, six port-side rail freight terminals and fast access to the M1, A1(M), M11 and M2. Phase 2 will see the completion of a further two units of 22,090 sq ft each, available for customers in Q4 this year. Each property will benefit from a ‘best in class’ specification, 1Gbps of diverse fibre for business continuity and future-proofing, and significant power availability to cater to a variety of businesses and technology requirements. Richard Brewer, Managing Director at Magrock, said: “We are delighted to be Goodman’s construction partner in delivering the next phase of development at London Brentwood Commercial Park. Working with Goodman, we will be creating sustainable and state-of-the-art facilities for its customers. Each new unit will feature market-leading specifications, including on-site renewables to maximise clean energy generation.” Agents marketing the scheme are Colliers, Knight Frank and Savills. To find out more about London Brentwood Commercial Park, please visit the website for further details. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
A Royal Staycation: Red Construction Group Tops Out New Hotel at Warwick Castle for Merlin Entertainments

A Royal Staycation: Red Construction Group Tops Out New Hotel at Warwick Castle for Merlin Entertainments

RED Construction Group, the specialist main contractor, has celebrated the topping out of the Warwick Castle Hotel, the newest addition to Warwick Castle’s already impressive accommodation offering made up of Woodland Lodges, Medieval Glamping and Tower Suites. The medieval-themed holiday resort named the ‘Knight’s Village’ also features a banqueting hall, outdoor entertainment and a newly expanded bar and restaurant. The new £10.3m hotel forms a key part of Merlin Entertainment’s £16.4m investment in Warwick Castle. RED Construction’s Special Projects team delivered the development of the two-storey hotel, which has added 60 lodge-style, themed guest rooms at Warwick Castle. The hotel has been sensitively designed by architects, The Manser Practice, to tie in with the surrounding Knight’s Village properties, consisting of a rough cast render with timber cladding and timber shingle roof tiles. The hotel is linked via an elevated walkway to the existing Knight’s Village restaurant, which has also undergone an extension, with extra dining space provided by new decking adjacent to the restaurant. The building has been constructed to achieve a BREEAM Very Good rating, and as part of the project, Merlin Entertainments planted 1,000 additional trees in the local area. The new hotel accommodation is set to boost the local economy and provide new opportunities for holidaymakers to visit and stay in Warwick.  RED Special Projects’ completion of the Warwick Castle Accommodation development follows the team’s work on Phase One of Merlin Entertainments’ £35m LEGOLAND Woodland Village project. RED Special Projects’ works there include the creation of a large ‘Hub’ to provide a restaurant, bar, large WC facilities, and an industrial kitchen. David Nelson at Merlin Entertainments commented: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with RED Special Projects again, following the team’s excellent work on our LEGOLAND Woodland Village project. The Warwick Castle Hotel is the latest of our development plans for some of our best-known leisure destinations across the country, and one which we’re very pleased to see come to fruition. “We’d like to extend a special thanks to our neighbours and local residents, who have been supportive and understanding throughout the planning and construction processes. The new hotel will bring more visitors to Warwick, further supporting the local economy, and giving families an exciting place to stay in the heart of this historic city. The RED team has done a fantastic job, and it was a special moment to celebrate the topping out of the project with all involved.” Nathan Farrar, Managing Director at RED Special Projects, said: “It is an honour for the RED Special Projects team to work in an area of such historic and cultural significance, and we are proud to have worked with Merlin Entertainments on yet another iconic location in their portfolio. Alongside the wider project team, we have taken specific measures to ensure that the heritage of the area is maintained, and this is a particularly unique project where the specific skills and understanding of the RED Special Projects team have proved invaluable.” RED Special Projects benefits from its relationship with RED Construction Group, with clients having access to the company’s wider supply chain and having the flexibility to call upon the additional resource of the Group whenever necessary. Working across a wide scope of industries, RED Special Projects primarily focuses on the commercial, residential, hotel, and retail arenas. The team also has extensive expertise in specialist areas such as listed building refurbishments and structural alterations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
New state-of-the-art facility to enhance Pendle’s police service underway

New state-of-the-art facility to enhance Pendle’s police service underway

THE multi-million-pound project to enhance policing services in East Lancashire has officially commenced, following the completion of enabling works on site. Located in Carr Road, Nelson, the new police station will bring together and replace existing stations in Colne and Nelson, providing a new home for Pendle’s policing operations under the Lancashire Constabulary. The new facility will be delivered with the support of multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard, which collaborated closely with contractor Willmott Dixon to reach this latest milestone. A multi-purpose policing hub, the new base will host several different policing teams, including neighbourhood, crime scene investigation and response teams. Integrating closely with the local community, a front counter has also been designed for residents to report issues and seek help directly. Pick Everard has provided a full suite of services to Lancashire Constabulary to secure planning consent for the facility in Nelson, including quantity surveying, principal design, mechanical and electrical, structural and civil engineering, architecture and sustainability. Andy Robinson, director at Pick Everard, said: “This is a modern policing facility that has been designed with both public and private need in mind. It is situated adjacent to an existing public park, with several different amenities close by, ensuring that residents don’t feel isolated or cut off from these vital services. The aim is to really integrate this police station with the local community, whilst delivering a highly efficient base, equipped with the latest technology and a sustainable design, to secure Pendle’s policing operations for generations to come. “The high specification will also ensure productivity and comfort for staff, with tall windows flooding the environment with natural light, alongside an energy-efficient thermal design. We’re looking forward to working closely with Lancashire Constabulary and Willmott Dixon to bring this exciting project to fruition.” Targeting a sustainable design, the new station will include provision for renewable energy, with an array of photovoltaic panels on the roof and a high level of thermal performance afforded through the building design. Rainwater management is also being provided on site to attenuate flow, with low consumption sanitary ware further minimising water reliance. A multi-storey car park, with 30 electric bays, are also included in plans to scale with Pendle’s future electric fleet. Anthony Dillon, managing director of Willmott Dixon in the north, said: “We are really proud to be able to play our part in ensuring Lancashire officers have the crucial facilities and the very best support to keep the people of Pendle safe. “We are focused on leaving a lasting legacy beyond bricks and mortar and that’s why we will be supporting the Lancashire economy by using local businesses and creating local employment opportunities whenever possible during construction.” Andrew Snowden, police and crime commissioner for Lancashire, said: “It’s great to see work start on the new Pendle Police Station, securing a state-of-the-art base that supports the fight against crime for years to come, and ensure people feel safe across the area. “The new facility is part of a wider investment in policing infrastructure across the Lancashire region. This latest development will ensure that the Pendle district is well-equipped to deal with the challenges of modern policing and will provide a vital resource for local officers in the years to come.” Superintendent Derry Crorken from Lancashire Constabulary’s East Division said: “This is a milestone moment for policing in Pendle – one which we feel will ultimately help us to provide a better quality of service to the public. “Once complete, the new building will see a massive improvement to our working environment, providing vital support to officers and staff who deliver frontline services to keep the area safe.” The new police station in Pendle is expected to be operational by Autumn 2025. For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Bellway invites the public to explore Fallow Wood View, a cutting-edge low-carbon housing development in Burgess Hill. Nestled within the larger Brookleigh scheme, this eco-friendly venture features 247 homes built using advanced Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), presenting a blend of efficiency and sustainability. Departing from conventional blockwork, Fallow Wood View employs timber frames and panels, a progressive approach to construction that aligns with Bellway's commitment to environmentally conscious building practices. Positioned on the eastern stretch of the Brookleigh site, the initial phase of Fallow Wood View spans 13 acres adjacent to Isaacs Lane, encompassing 222 homes along with public spaces like a pocket park and village green, fostering a sense of community. Bellway's dedication to swift, eco-friendly construction methods is evident in this phase. Daniel Williamson, Sales Director for Bellway South London, highlighted the development's sustainability, stating, "Fallow Wood View is a sustainable development where we are constructing all the homes employing quicker modern methods of construction (MMC). This forward-thinking process not only cuts down the build time and improves energy efficiency but also makes use of a more sustainable material in the form of timber." The timber used in construction adheres to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards, ensuring responsible sourcing practices that preserve biodiversity and support local communities. Research indicates a 31% reduction in carbon emissions against current building regulations, with all properties meeting the Future Homes Standard. Each home incorporates renewable technologies such as electric vehicle charging points, solar panels, or air source heat pumps. Sales of properties at Fallow Wood View have commenced, with the first homes in the Brookleigh neighbourhood available for open-market purchase. The development has garnered significant interest due to its innovative construction methods and sustainability features. Brookleigh, also known as the Northern Arc, spearheaded by Homes England, envisions a comprehensive community with up to 3,500 new homes, educational facilities, healthcare amenities, business spaces, and recreational areas. A new link road will connect Fallow Wood View's phases, facilitating access to a 40-acre site on Freeks Lane, where further developments and extensions to Bedelands Nature Reserve are planned. Fallow Wood View's 247 homes include 172 properties for private sale and 75 affordable homes for local residents through low-cost rent and shared ownership. With construction well underway, the first residents are anticipated to move into their completed homes in June 2024, marking a significant milestone in Burgess Hill's sustainable urban development.

Bellway Unveils Sustainable Living Oasis at Fallow Wood View, Burgess Hill

Bellway invites the public to explore Fallow Wood View, a cutting-edge low-carbon housing development in Burgess Hill. Nestled within the larger Brookleigh scheme, this eco-friendly venture features 247 homes built using advanced Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), presenting a blend of efficiency and sustainability. Departing from conventional blockwork, Fallow Wood View employs timber frames and panels, a progressive approach to construction that aligns with Bellway’s commitment to environmentally conscious building practices. Positioned on the eastern stretch of the Brookleigh site, the initial phase of Fallow Wood View spans 13 acres adjacent to Isaacs Lane, encompassing 222 homes along with public spaces like a pocket park and village green, fostering a sense of community. Bellway’s dedication to swift, eco-friendly construction methods is evident in this phase. Daniel Williamson, Sales Director for Bellway South London, highlighted the development’s sustainability, stating, “Fallow Wood View is a sustainable development where we are constructing all the homes employing quicker modern methods of construction (MMC). This forward-thinking process not only cuts down the build time and improves energy efficiency but also makes use of a more sustainable material in the form of timber.” The timber used in construction adheres to Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) standards, ensuring responsible sourcing practices that preserve biodiversity and support local communities. Research indicates a 31% reduction in carbon emissions against current building regulations, with all properties meeting the Future Homes Standard. Each home incorporates renewable technologies such as electric vehicle charging points, solar panels, or air source heat pumps. Sales of properties at Fallow Wood View have commenced, with the first homes in the Brookleigh neighbourhood available for open-market purchase. The development has garnered significant interest due to its innovative construction methods and sustainability features. Brookleigh, also known as the Northern Arc, spearheaded by Homes England, envisions a comprehensive community with up to 3,500 new homes, educational facilities, healthcare amenities, business spaces, and recreational areas. A new link road will connect Fallow Wood View’s phases, facilitating access to a 40-acre site on Freeks Lane, where further developments and extensions to Bedelands Nature Reserve are planned. Fallow Wood View’s 247 homes include 172 properties for private sale and 75 affordable homes for local residents through low-cost rent and shared ownership. With construction well underway, the first residents are anticipated to move into their completed homes in June 2024, marking a significant milestone in Burgess Hill’s sustainable urban development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
YASA to move UK HQ to Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter

YASA to move UK HQ to Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter

YASA, the wholly owned Mercedes-Benz subsidiary electric motor specialist, has agreed to pre-let three landmark connected buildings for its UK HQ in the new Innovation Quarter at Bicester Motion, the 444-acre estate in Bicester, Oxfordshire, home to mobility businesses past, present and future to help pioneer a sustainable mobility future. Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter is a £60 million investment to boost pioneering future mobility discovery and will deliver seven prestigious HQ buildings with views across the airfield and will total 215,000 sq ft (19,698 sq m). YASA has taken a 15 year lease for the first phase across three interconnected buildings which total 88,000 sq ft (8,220 sq m). A reserved matters application has been submitted to Cherwell District Council with bespoke detailed designs, layout and landscaping to enable YASA to continue its pioneering R&D and growth strategy. Construction is due to start on-site in summer 2024 and practical completion is targeted for spring 2025. The carbon-efficient buildings will target BREEAM Excellent certification and EPC A rating. They will be prepared for solar PV technology creation and include dedicated ecology and biodiversity areas, green space amenities for staff health and wellbeing, and bicycle parking spaces. YASA was founded in 2009, a spin out from the University of Oxford, by the founder and chief technology officer, Dr Tim Woolmer. In 2021, YASA became a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, pioneering new electric drive technology for the whole Mercedes-Benz Group. The company is leading the way in the electric propulsion evolution with its axial flux Technology, a more compact, lightweight, powerful and efficient alternative to the standard radial electric motors used in most EVs today. YASA employs over 400 people across several sites in Oxfordshire, and includes teams in innovation, engineering, prototyping, operations, and business support functions. Many of these teams will be due to relocate to Bicester Motion in January 2026 upon completion of their new headquarters premises. Markus Keicher, chief executive officer, YASA said: “Having grown out of an Oxford University PhD in 2009, YASA’s home has always been in Oxfordshire. It is important for the company and staff that YASA maintains a strong foothold in the area, which is seen as a heartland of automotive technology in the UK. In order to meet the next stage of YASA’s growth, we need a new facility that matches our ambition and Bicester Motion is the right place for this and we are excited for the next stage of our journey as part of Mercedes-Benz.” Daniel Geoghegan, chief executive, Bicester Motion said: “This is significant news for not just Bicester Motion but also the town, Oxfordshire and UK PLC that pioneering electric motor specialist YASA has chosen Bicester Motion for their new HQ as they continue accelerating their business. Their new headquarters will form a focal point for our latest phase of construction to showcase their impressive sustainable advanced technology innovation and secure local training and jobs. “By joining us, YASA’s new headquarters will enhance our already established and thriving community of 50+ companies as well as Bicester and Oxfordshire’s important role as the home to world leading automotive technology and mobility brands. “This significant pre-let is also a catalyst for our wider masterplan vision and delivery to include hotels and the Experience Quarter.” Bicester Motion has also committed to significant infrastructure improvements including cycle and connectivity to Bicester North station and the surrounding area. It is anticipated that more than 500 construction jobs will be created as result of the Innovation Quarter which will enhance GVA to the local economy. Adalta Real represented Bicester Motion. Adalta Real and Bidwells are the commercial leasing agents. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
First images of HS2’s biggest ‘green bridge’

First images of HS2’s biggest ‘green bridge’

HS2 yesterday revealed new images of the project’s largest ‘green bridge’, which will cross the high-speed railway near Brackley. The 99m-wide bridge is designed to take a local road over the new railway close to the village of Turweston, which is on the outskirts of Brackley, with new hedgerows and vegetation planted on top to create a space for wildlife. It will also carry a footpath and bridleway. An increasingly common sight above new railways and motorways on the continent, green bridges protect birds, mammals and insects while longer ‘green tunnels’ also help protect views across the countryside and reduce noise and disturbance for local communities. Sixteen green bridges will be built as part of the HS2 project, with most carrying a combination of local roads, footpaths and farm access routes. Five green tunnels are also being built, with some up to one-and-a-half miles long. Together they will help knit together 33 square kilometres of new wildlife habitats alongside the railway including 7 million new trees and shrubs. Construction of the HS2 project, which will link London and Birmingham, is now well underway. Once complete, it will almost halve journey times between Britain’s two largest cities and free up space for more local trains on the most crowded parts of the existing west coast mainline. The bridge will cross one of the railway’s longest and deepest cuttings, which will stretch for 1.5 miles past the village of Turweston on the edge of Buckinghamshire and West Northants. Elizabeth Longinotti, HS2 Ltd’s Senior Project Manager, said: “Green bridges are still rare in the UK and just one example of how HS2 is leading the way in terms of innovation and environmental protection. The bridge at Turweston will help keep communities connected, while supporting wildlife and biodiversity on either side of the railway. “Once complete, HS2 will deliver faster, more reliable journeys between London and Birmingham – while freeing up space on the existing mainline for more local trains. But it’s also important that we deliver on our environmental commitments, which is why Turweston’s green bridge is so important.” The bridge was designed by HS2’s main works contractor EKFB, a team made up of Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and BAM Nuttall, working with its design partner, ASC (a joint venture between Arcadis Setec and COWI) and specialist architects Moxon. Thirty-six steel beams will support the structure, with pre-cast concrete slabs forming the deck. 2,700cubic metres of earth will then be landscaped over the top, with the hedgerows, shrubs and other vegetation planted last. During the design stage, better than expected ground conditions combined with design optimisation, allowed the team to cut the structure’s carbon footprint by 42%. This was achieved by significantly reducing the amount of carbon-intensive concrete and steel by removing 102 deep piles and opting for shallow foundations instead. Excavation of the cutting is well underway, alongside foundation works for the bridge. Assembly of the steelwork is expected to begin later this year. Tony Wehby, EKFB’s Project Director, said: “The earthworks programme between Turweston and Greatworth includes some of the largest cuttings on the HS2 project. One of the deepest and largest in terms of volume is the cutting at Turweston. “To ensure connectivity isn’t lost for our local communities and the areas ecology, this well-thought-out overbridge is designed to connect both sides of the cutting and is still in keeping with its environment – boasting a landscaped area to blend into its surroundings.“The team has also done a tremendous job in finding innovative ways to reduce the carbon output of this structure; through our value-added engineering practice, we have reduced the number of piles required by adopting shallower foundations. This has benefitted the delivery programme and reduced costs – we’re really pleased with this outcome. We look forward to seeing the structure come to life when its steel beams arrive in the summer for the next phase of construction.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Doka Formwork essential to the Delivery of High-Profile Scottish Harbour Extension

Doka Formwork essential to the Delivery of High-Profile Scottish Harbour Extension

Doka supplied the specialist formwork and technical support to facilitate a multimillion expansion of South Harbour in Aberdeen, the largest marine infrastructure project in Trust port history. The company worked in conjunction with contractor Beattie FRC on the harbour’s North Breakwater Crown Wall and surrounding main quay works. The overall aim of the ambitious development at the town’s largest harbour in Nigg Bay was to expand and diversify its use. The increased quayside space allows for more vessels to dock and significantly broaden trade opportunities around the North Sea. The 620m crown wall’s concrete construction was the result of detailed consultation between Doka and Beattie FRC. The contractor specified a two-pour solution in height involving 10m lengths boxes for what was an extremely largescale programme. With inclement weather a potential hinderance, the need for formwork that led to the wall’s construction within the client’s strict deadline was of the utmost importance. Doka had the knowhow and equipment to deliver the required solution. Equipped for building success  The Framax Xlife & Eurex 60 550 plumbing struts, MF240 platforms, WS10 Platforms from Doka were key to the safe, timely completion of the crown wall pours, which varied from 3m to 5.5m in height. The system’s rapid-forming capability was enabled by its optimised panel sizes which worked perfectly for the new desired pour heights. Furthermore, its forming times are kept to a minimum by widely-spaced form-ties of up to 1.35m apart. With the Framax Xlife unit, accuracy is not compromised for speed, with all connectors and accessories fitting seamlessly by the site team. On the crown wall quayside, the Doka MF240 climbing formwork optimised any on-site works as these were all assembled offsite by Doka in Sheffield. It meant that when they arrived at the site, they were almost immediately placed on the wall. The fully edge-protected, 2.40m-wide working platform enabled engineers regular, controlled access to the crown wall during its construction, as well as being able to plumb and align the Framax. Similarly, this process was duplicated for the WS10 platforms for the North Sea side of the wall. On this side of the wall the top pour contained a cope that had to be formed and supported. This helped inform the WS10 platforms’ design.  The cope’s load was transferred from the T7 spindles back to the platform and cast in wall anchors. This further intricate detail was easily accommodated by the range of quality Doka systems. The South Harbour’s expansion has achieved a number of beneficial outcomes. These include increasing the harbour’s water depth to 15m; enabled the berthing of 300m vessels; expanding laydown area to 125,000m2 and widening channel access to 165m. The harbour has opened to vessels, a number of which are docking at Nigg Bay for the first time thanks to the additional space the expansion has allowed. A huge investment that will profit the country as a whole, Doka is proud of its role in the regeneration of infrastructure that remains vital to the heritage and fiscal wellbeing of a grand Scottish town.   For more information visit doka.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Rendall & Rittner appoints new Head Of Consultancy

Rendall & Rittner appoints new Head Of Consultancy

Leading property management agent Rendall & Rittner has recently promoted Ross Facta to the position of Head of Consultancy. Ross’ role will see him lead on the consultancy of a range of residential and mixed-use projects from concept design through to ongoing management. Ross began his career in property, managing the acquisition and refurbishment of property investments in cities across the world including London, New York, Chicago and Panama. Following this, Ross joined Rendall & Rittner in 2018 as a Senior Property Manager, before advancing through to positions as Property Team Manager and most recently as Area Director for one of the company’s London divisions. As Head of Consultancy, Ross will build upon his analytical abilities, as well as his desire for detail, to assist clients in the pre-construction stages of development projects. This will include providing guidance on budgets and forecasting, advice on planning requirements and compliance strategies, as well as identifying key considerations for ensuring a smooth customer journey. Ross will ensure that Rendall & Rittner’s development consultancy offering is tailored to a variety of projects from smaller estates to larger, mixed-tenure schemes and optimises every stage of clients’ developments. Ross comments: “When I first joined Rendall & Rittner six years ago, I was attracted by the strong values and the proven ability of the company to go from strength to strength. This felt like a place where I would have valuable opportunities to grow and learn and I am grateful to have been supported to develop and advance in my career. In my new role, I am looking forward to leveraging the knowledge and broad experience that I have gained at Rendall & Rittner to provide practical, value adding guidance for our clients.” Richard Daver, Group CEO at Rendall & Rittner said: “Since joining Rendall & Rittner, Ross has proven to be an exceptional asset with excellent problem-solving skills and his promotion to Head of Consultancy reflects his dedication and hard work. By providing expert advice at every stage of a building or development, we can help to optimise build costs, service charges and operating risks, as well as improving the level of service and customer experience for stakeholders. I look forward to seeing how our consultancy services continue to grow and evolve under Ross’ leadership.” For further information please visit: www.rendallandrittner.co.uk  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Plans revealed for Chorlton Library refurbishment

Plans revealed for Chorlton Library refurbishment

Major refurbishment plans for Chorlton Library in Manchester have been revealed to enhance the existing structure of the building and the fabulous dome hidden for years will be unveiled when it reopens. The library closes its door for two weeks on 24 March and will reopen with a temporary reduced library offer from the library extension at the back of the library from 8 April. Additional work will include improvements to the exterior stonework and windows as well as the renewal of electrical and mechanical systems, to ensure the building contributes to lower carbon emissions to help the council meet its target of becoming zero carbon by 2038. The refurbishment will also create additional meeting rooms within the existing structure and when the building reopens in 2025 the library will benefit from Open + technology which will allow the library to be open and accessible for more hours every day. Services in the reduced library offer from April 8 will include free internet and Wi-Fi, a small selection of stock, and a reservation pick-up point. These reservations can be made for free on the Manchester libraries catalogue. Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure said: “Chorlton Library is one of the last of our libraries to benefit as part of our Library renewal programme. It is a unique building, a great asset to the city and one of our oldest libraries. It is a much-loved library and continues to be at the heart of the Chorlton community as it has been for the last 100 years. This work will bring it right up to date and ensure it continues to be better equipped to serve the local community and fit for purpose for the next 100 years and more as well as meeting our sustainability plans and carbon neutral targets. “As one of the busiest libraries in the city, I know it will be missed but I can assure you that the revamp will be worth the wait.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »