Wolseley Infrastructure has unveiled an exclusive look in to Fusion Utilities’ brand new and highly anticipated Horizon 29 site in Chesterfield. The new state-of-the-art warehouse, which became operational on the 1st July, will be officially launched to the public this September and will see Fusion consolidate four operations across two
Work has begun on the refurbishment of two vacant industrial/warehouse assets that will deliver more than 100,000 sq ft of Grade A accommodation in the UK’s logistics ‘golden triangle’. Formerly occupied by Knights of Old, the two properties were acquired by Cabot’s Industrial Value Fund VII in April 2024. This
G&H Group has secured a multi-million pound contract to deliver a complete mechanical, electrical and public health (MEP) design and build to Manchester’s original skyscraper, Sunlight House. Appointed by main contractor MYCO and developer Karrev, G&H Group will support the refurbishment of the iconic Grade II listed building, improving its
Carter Jonas to analyse the Green Belt’s composition, purpose and potential to address future housing need Throughout the general election campaign, the Green Belt was central to the debate about the housing crisis. The new Labour government has committed to building 1.5 million homes during the next parliament and has
As one of the UK’s leading MEP consultancy firms, Whitecode Consulting has ensured student housing providers Scape achieved a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ for its new student accommodation in Leeds. Having worked with them in the past, Scape relied on Whitecode Consulting’s guidance and expertise for achieving the desired BREEAM
Willmott Dixon Interiors is set to commence works on the next stage of an £11 million project to expand and refresh A&E facilities at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. The fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor will revamp facilities at the hospital’s Millennium Wing on behalf of University Hospitals
Wolseley Infrastructure has unveiled an exclusive look in to Fusion Utilities’ brand new and highly anticipated Horizon 29 site in Chesterfield. The new state-of-the-art warehouse, which became operational on the 1st July, will be officially launched to the public this September and will see Fusion consolidate four operations across two locations into just one. The new facility will enable Fusion Utilities to house the biggest range of utilities products to provide better availability than ever before to its customers. In a newly released video, Wolseley Infrastructure reveals the completed interiors of Horizon 29 including its warehousing spaces. The Chesterfield-based site’s prime location at Junction 29A off the M1 offers unparalleled accessibility across the UK enabling Fusion Utilities to deliver stock quickly and efficiently around the country, keeping infrastructure projects running smoothly. The site will be used as both a fulfilment centre for delivering stock directly to customers as well as a central location for stock replenishment for Fusion Utilities’ nationwide branch network. The new Horizon 29 site has enabled Fusion Utilities to upgrade from 86,000 sq. ft of warehouse space to 150,000 sq. ft space. The multi-functional space can hold up to 4,000 pallets alongside offering cable cutting facilities and an advanced hire workshop for best-in-class service. The enhanced warehouse space is complimented by an increased yard space, growing from 0.5 acres to 2.34 acres. The new site seamlessly integrates warehouse and office space for optimised efficiency and service quality. Horizon 29 has been designed with Fusion Utilities’ commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint in mind. The new site features environmentally friendly features including 14 EV charging points, using natural light optimised for visibility and a large recycling centre. Simon Dennis, former National Operations Director at Wolseley Infrastructure said: “We are thrilled with our new warehouse and are excited to give people a look inside before the official launch in September. The investment in Horizon 29 highlights our dedication and unwavering commitment to adaptability and excellence in customer service delivery. Horizon 29 will ensure we can remain agile and responsive to the evolving needs of our customers, allowing us to better serve both them and their communities.” “With the Horizon site, we’re not just investing in infrastructure, we’re investing in our capacity to deliver exceptional service and support that puts our customers first.” With the site opening officially to the public in September, Fusion Utilities will be unlocking a brand-new chapter of innovation and service excellence. This landmark development emphasises Wolseley’s commitment to unparalleled service and innovation in the Utilities sector. To find out more about Wolseley Infrastructure and its brands, visit here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work has begun on the refurbishment of two vacant industrial/warehouse assets that will deliver more than 100,000 sq ft of Grade A accommodation in the UK’s logistics ‘golden triangle’. Formerly occupied by Knights of Old, the two properties were acquired by Cabot’s Industrial Value Fund VII in April 2024. This represented the Fund’s 4th investment in the UK, and Cabot’s 52nd investment overall in the UK since 2012. Cabot Kettering comprises a pair of modern, detached units on an 8.11-acre plot (site cover of 27%) at Kettering Venture Park, a premier distribution location in Northamptonshire, off Jct 9 of the A14. The largest of the units is Cabot Kettering 86, an 86,148 sq ft warehouse, which lies adjacent to Cabot Kettering 15, a separate building of 15,233 sq ft. The two units will be made available as a whole or on an individual basis. Cabot Kettering 86 benefits from an additional 14,000 sq ft covered loading canopy. Both units will undergo a comprehensive refurbishment, and upon delivery provide Grade A space as well as an upgrade to the available power supply to a minimum of 750 KvA. The scheme will target EPC A and BREEAM In-Use certification in cooperation with prospective new occupiers. The site offers outstanding flexibility for users, providing ample space for truck parking and manoeuvrability, along with high visibility and presence along the A14. The refurbished units are expected to be available from Q4 2024. Jed Raymond, director of asset management for UK and Europe, said: “Our team continues to source and execute on value-add opportunities in the UK. Cabot Kettering is one of several refurbishment or development projects we’re undertaking in order to bring modern products to market. We’re excited to see this project take shape in the coming months.” Christian Smith, industrial and logistics director at Savills Birmingham, said: “This represents a great opportunity to bring high quality buildings to a market lacking in stock, in a popular location. The large secure yards on each building mean they will appeal to both warehouse and industrial occupiers alike.” Richard Baker, director of Prop-Search, said: “Cabot Kettering will bring some much needed Grade A space to the market and we are confident that it will be sought after by local, regional and national occupiers, and we look forward to bringing it to the market.” Cabot Kettering is located on the southern edge of Kettering and provides direct access to the motorway network, including M1 and M6 to the west and A1 (M) and M11 to the east. The site benefits from a mainline railway service, with connections to London St Pancras International, and connects to the UK’s largest container port at Felixstowe. For more information on availability at Cabot Kettering, please contact retained agents, Prop-Search and Savills or visit: https://www.cabotkettering.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
G&H Group has secured a multi-million pound contract to deliver a complete mechanical, electrical and public health (MEP) design and build to Manchester’s original skyscraper, Sunlight House. Appointed by main contractor MYCO and developer Karrev, G&H Group will support the refurbishment of the iconic Grade II listed building, improving its energy performance and helping it achieve a net-zero carbon footprint. A 40-strong team including apprentices will deliver a full MEP design and build which will transform the 14 storey Grade A office, ensuring it achieves four star NABERS* and BREEM** sustainability ratings. As part of the contract G&H Group will install a solar PV system, new energy saving lighting, fire, access control and CCTV systems, heating and cooling systems, and upgrade the power services. Andrew Dunkin, project manager, MYCO said: “To be a part of the team which brings Sunlight House back to its original glory is very exciting for me as a project manager and I look forward to working with G&H Group to make this happen.” David Davis, director, G&H Group said: “We’re excited to be collaborating with MYCO on the restoration of Sunlight House, a building rich in heritage and of the finest architecture. Sustainability is at the heart of the project and G&H Group will, through every aspect of design and installation, ensure Karrev’s environment targets are achieved.” Work will commence on Sunlight House, which was designed by Manchester-based architect Joseph Sunlight, in July with planned completion for Phase one, April 2025. Established in 1998, G&H Group is a market leading MEP provider. Its 180-strong experienced team design, manage, deliver and maintain every aspect of MEP schemes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Carter Jonas to analyse the Green Belt’s composition, purpose and potential to address future housing need Throughout the general election campaign, the Green Belt was central to the debate about the housing crisis. The new Labour government has committed to building 1.5 million homes during the next parliament and has pledged to adopt a strategic approach to the use of Green Belt land as part of the delivery solution, including building on poor quality so-called ‘grey belt’ land. In a new report, Rethinking the Green Belt, national property consultancy Carter Jonas has moved the debate on a stage, by considering what land might be used and how it will be released. The analysis by takes an in-depth look at the subject, determining to what extent land within the Green Belt differs from land outside it; how much of the Green Belt is protected by other (and perhaps more appropriate) designations, and exploring options for using Green Belt land in order to achieve more sustainable patterns of development. The composition of the Green Belt The amount of land designated as Green Belt has recently increased: in the two years to April 2023, it rose by 25,443 ha (1.6%), returning Green Belt coverage to 2004 levels. A closer look reveals that there is not a huge difference in land use when a comparison is made between Green Belt and non-Green Belt areas, suggesting that Green Belt land is not especially unique, as is commonly assumed. 6.8% of Green Belt land has been developed, compared to 9.0% for non-Green Belt land. Of that, the majority is used for transport and hardstanding, such as car parks, paved or tarmacked areas, accounting for 5.2% and 6.1% of Green Belt and non-Green Belt land, respectively. Land developed for buildings accounts for just 1.2% of Green Belt land, and 2.5% of non-Green Belt land. Furthermore, while 18.9% of the Green Belt is in the form of forest, open land and water, the proportion of land outside the Green Belt within this classification is only slightly greater, at 20.3%. These statistics emphasise that the Green Belt is no more than a planning policy tool to be deployed for specific purposes rather that a landscape or ecological designation as some might incorrectly assume, and which might result in markedly different land use data. The purpose of the Green Belt The original purposes of the Green Belt were numerous: to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas; prevent neighbouring towns from merging into one another; assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment; preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and assist in urban regeneration by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land. Although commonly seen as a means of preserving ‘green’ land, the Green Belt was not created with the primary purpose of protecting the natural environment: that role is fulfilled by environmental designations including National Parks, National Landscapes (previously AONBs), SSSIs and Ramsar Sites. Only 21% of all Green Belt land is covered by an environmental designation. This percentage ranges from 38.7% of London’s Green Belt, 33.6% for Bournemouth / Poole and 26.3% for Bristol / Bath, to just 3.8% for Cambridge, 3.6% for York and 2.8% for Stoke on Trent. Just as environmental protection is not an objective of the Green Belt, neither is recreational use. Land used for outdoor recreation accounts for 5.5% of Green Belt land, ranging from 21.9% of London’s Green Belt to just 3.3% in the North East. There would seem to be clear scope to improve on this. So, as the Green Belt is increasingly a feature of planning debate and discussion, should its original objectives be reviewed? David Churchill, Partner at Carter Jonas comments, “The Green Belt is primarily a planning policy tool with the original objective of preventing urban sprawl. “Priorities for green open spaces are changing. Unsurprisingly, there is mounting pressure to allow more development on Green Belt land in response to the housing crisis. In most cases such developments can generate considerable new recreational space. Consequently, new communities may be better provided for by addressing today’s priorities for open spaces, such as providing for health and wellbeing and biodiversity net gain, as opposed to leaving the land in its current unbuilt state.” Meeting housing demand The Labour government has committed to building 1.5 million homes, or 300,000 per annum over five years. Assuming an average plot size of 0.033 hectares (Carter Jonas research), and on the (doubtless erroneous) assumption that all of these homes would be built in the Green Belt, this would only equate to 3.0% of the current extent of Green Belt. The reality is that any Green Belt ‘land take’ will be far lower, with brownfield and non-Green Belt locations being prioritised. Hence the quantum of land to be removed from the Green Belt is likely to be pretty modest in the overall scheme of things. David Churchill comments, “Our research shows that housing need can be met without substantial loss to the Green Belt. We are not advocating all new homes being located on the Green Belt but are suggesting that there are strategic benefits in releasing some Green Belt land for housing. For example, it could reduce the number of ‘leapfrogging’ developments – those located further from urban areas than is desirable, which increase residents’ carbon footprints through extensive commutes and impacts on both businesses’ and residents’ proximity to urban centres.” Carter Jonas’ research shows the extent of Green Belt release required by region if housing stock was increased by 6% (to align with Labour’s 1.5m housebuilding target over the next 5 years, and again provided solely on the Green Belt): in London, a 6% increase in housing stock would require 21.1% of Green Belt land. In contrast, in five regions (South East, North West, North East, East of England, West Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber), a 6% increase in housing would equate to less than 3% of Green Belt land being released. David Churchill continues, “While
As one of the UK’s leading MEP consultancy firms, Whitecode Consulting has ensured student housing providers Scape achieved a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ for its new student accommodation in Leeds. Having worked with them in the past, Scape relied on Whitecode Consulting’s guidance and expertise for achieving the desired BREEAM rating. In fact, the MEP consultancy specialists are completing BREEAM In Use assessments for all Scape’s current PBSA buildings across the UK. The project began in 2019, so when Whitecode Consulting was entrusted with supporting the BREEAM assessment earlier this year, it was already post-Stage 2. This meant that some of the early credits had not been achieved, while some awarded credits were not typically targeted by Scape. Therefore, Whitecode Consulting needed to undertake a full review and investigate alternative credits to ensure that the client achieved the BREEAM ‘Excellent’ target. As accredited BREEAM Advisory Professionals, our experienced assessors provided a comprehensive BREEAM consultancy and AP service. With Whitecode Consulting having recently opened a second office, in Birmingham, to expand their service area to include more of the UK, the assessors were ideally located to provide ongoing advice and be available whenever the client needed. The project, due for completion in August 2024, involved the construction of a crystalline tower, featuring 660 bed spaces and a ground floor retail space. Located within the heart of Leeds city centre’s Arena Quarter, the stylish tower offers luxurious student accommodation and comprehensive on-site amenities, such as a fitness studio, and multimedia and cinema rooms. Keen to meet sustainability targets and standards, the client also incorporated low carbon heating and PV panels into the design of the building. Ellen Huelin, Sustainability Director at Whitecode Consulting, highlighted the importance of close collaboration between all involved in the project. She said: “With the client wanting to achieve an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating, it was essential that everyone worked cohesively to ensure this target was possible. “Providing ongoing advice and support, the experienced and incredibly talented consultancy team played a vital role in the success of what was a monumental and significant project.” For more information about Sustainability Services at Whitecode Consulting visit www.whitecode.co.uk/services/sustainability Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Willmott Dixon Interiors is set to commence works on the next stage of an £11 million project to expand and refresh A&E facilities at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton. The fit-out and refurbishment specialist contractor will revamp facilities at the hospital’s Millennium Wing on behalf of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (UHSussex). The project is an acute floor expansion, which will provide modern healthcare facilities and significantly increase capacity to support critical patients in the Emergency Department. Willmott Dixon Interiors will manage the removal of all existing internal walls, ceilings and flooring within the building, and a full MEP strip out and replacement. The scope of the works also include furniture, fixtures and equipment, and decoration. The Royal Sussex County Hospital project was awarded through SCAPE, one of theUK’s leading public sector procurement framework providers. As part of its delivery of the project, Willmott Dixon Interiors has committed to a programme of social value activities which will benefit the hospital and local community. Roger Forsdyke, chief operations officer at Willmott Dixon Interiors, said: “Over recent years, we’ve enhanced multiple healthcare environments on behalf of UHSussex. We’re proud to continue our successful partnership with the Trust and to deliver facilities at Royal Sussex County Hospital that will improve services, increase capacity and enhance the experience for staff and patients.” James Millar, deputy director of capital development and property at UHSussex, said: “We’re pleased to progress to the next stage of a project that will greatly enhance the Emergency Department at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. The Trust’s investment in the Millennium Wing is part of a much broader commitment to improve standards and deliver a better hospital environment for patients and staff. It will enable patients to access emergency care as quickly as possible.” Mark Robinson, group chief executive at SCAPE, said: “The refurbishment works atthe Royal Sussex County Hospital will prove invaluable in supporting the need forgreater capacity in the A&E department, while also enabling better patient outcomes. “We are, therefore, pleased to be working on such an important and significant project with our partner, Willmott Dixon Interiors helping to accelerate this project forward, and provide improved NHS services for the community.” Willmott Dixon Interiors has successfully delivered several construction projects on behalf of UHSussex. Recent examples include a £7.5m modular refurbishment at Princess Royal Hospital, and a state-of-the-art children’s audiology testing centre at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital, Brighton. For more information, visit: www.willmottdixoninteriors.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
