Legal & General (L&G), alongside digital infrastructure investment firm Goldacre and development partner sineQN, has received planning approval for a £750 million hyperscale data centre in the London Borough of Newham. This significant project aims to deliver a sustainable, urban data hub, contributing an estimated £88 million to the local
As work begins on site near Woodstock, Blenheim Estate Homes’ innovative community Hill Rise has already picked up a prestigious design award for its architects, Pollard Thomas Edwards (PTE). The community, by Blenheim Estate Homes, will be built by their build partner, Pye Homes and has been named as one
The University of Warwick has unveiled a £700m investment in its West Midlands campus as part of its ambitious Connect Programme. This is the largest single investment in campus facilities across its entire 60-year history. The unprecedented investment will focus on the Social Sciences and STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering
Whitbread, the parent company of Premier Inn, has sold 51 of its restaurants for £56 million as part of a major restructuring plan aimed at refocusing on its more profitable hotel operations. The sale is a key element of Whitbread’s wider strategy to streamline its portfolio and improve cost efficiency.
Following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) has released a briefing, offering vital guidance for professionals in architectural technology. The report examines the recommendations from the inquiry’s Phase 2 findings and aims to establish best practices in the evolving regulatory landscape. A Focus on Building
Pradera Lateral has been appointed as the new asset manager for four major shopping centres, previously managed by Global Mutual, as SGS aims to usher in a new era of growth for these high-profile retail destinations. The centres now under Pradera Lateral’s management include the Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex,
NIBE Energy Systems, Europe’s leading heat pump manufacturer, has enhanced its UK delivery service by partnering with the Ziegler Group, a global logistics provider that shares NIBE’s ethos of maintaining a human, customer-focused and sustainable approach at the core if its operations. NIBE deliveries now come from Ziegler’s brand-new state-of-the-art
A new company, Steel River Power Limited (“Steel River Power”), has been created to build, own, and operate what will become the largest private wire network in the UK and deliver power to occupiers on the giant Teesworks development site, located in the Tees Valley in the North East of
Therme Manchester has received approval from Trafford Council for its Section 73 planning amendment, marking a significant step forward in the development of the UK’s first immersive wellbeing resort. The approval coincides with the start of enabling work on-site, including the demolition of pre-existing concrete slabs, which will be conserved
FLEXI-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures continues to lead the way in supporting construction apprenticeships, rising top of the podium at last week’s Construction Apprenticeship Awards. A division of Efficiency North Holdings, the service was named Construction Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, solidifying its reputation as a leader in nurturing the next
Legal & General (L&G), alongside digital infrastructure investment firm Goldacre and development partner sineQN, has received planning approval for a £750 million hyperscale data centre in the London Borough of Newham. This significant project aims to deliver a sustainable, urban data hub, contributing an estimated £88 million to the local economy (GVA) and creating over 1,000 skilled jobs during its construction and operation phases. The new data centre is set to attract around 500 high-growth data businesses to Newham, positioning the borough as a key player in the UK’s expanding digital infrastructure sector. The development is the latest in L&G’s ongoing commitment to regenerating Newham, having already invested over £550 million in local projects. These include high-profile developments like 14 Westfield Avenue, 5 Endeavour Square, and affordable housing schemes such as the Manor Road Quarter. As demand for data storage and processing continues to rise, fuelled by trends like cloud migration and artificial intelligence, this project addresses the critical need for more digital infrastructure in London. The data centre will provide 80 megawatts of IT power by early 2027, with capabilities to support various data-driven workloads, including AI, in a secure and sustainable environment. Its location, just 500 metres from the London Internet Exchange (LINX), further enhances its appeal as a major hub for data traffic. In addition to bolstering Newham’s status as a digital innovation hub, the data centre could also serve as a heat source for thousands of local homes, supporting the Council’s net-zero ambitions. The development will improve the surrounding environment, including enhancements to Bidder Street and pedestrian pathways connecting Canning Town and Stratford. This project aligns closely with Newham Council’s vision of transforming the borough into London’s go-to destination for businesses and innovators in the data sector. The planning approval comes after extensive consultations with residents and key stakeholders. Matteo Colombo, Managing Director of Digital Infrastructure at Legal & General, emphasised the long-term benefits of the project, stating: “This data centre signals our continued support for Newham, helping to boost productivity and bring further investment to this vibrant part of London.” David Bloom, CEO of Goldacre, highlighted the centre’s importance in strengthening London’s role as a global leader in digital infrastructure: “This development reinforces the capital’s position as a global hub for innovation and technology.” SineQN’s CEO, Gavan Mackenzie, added: “We are excited to deliver this next-generation, sustainable project that will positively contribute to both the local economy and the community.” As Newham continues its transformation into a centre for digital innovation, this new data centre marks a major milestone in its journey. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As work begins on site near Woodstock, Blenheim Estate Homes’ innovative community Hill Rise has already picked up a prestigious design award for its architects, Pollard Thomas Edwards (PTE). The community, by Blenheim Estate Homes, will be built by their build partner, Pye Homes and has been named as one of the big winners in the 2024 Housing Design Awards. Hill Rise is an innovative low-carbon development, where Blenheim Estate Homes has full planning permission to build 48 homes, 57 sqm of community space and a parking barn. The Oxfordshire housebuilder is also preparing a Reserved Matters Application for the outline permission of up to 132 homes. Key features at Hill Rise include: Roger File, Managing Director of Real Estate at Blenheim Estate Homes said: “Hill Rise sets new standards for low-carbon housing, and we are rightly proud of the scheme to have already won an award before even a single home has been built.” PTE partner and project masterplanner Alexis Butterfield said: “We had a refreshingly unusual brief; to imagine a different relationship with private cars. The resulting dramatic change from car-shaped roads to landscaped, sociable streets hints at what we could deliver nationwide if this cultural shift could be embraced more widely.” He added: “The benefits of reduced road infrastructure are, put simply, more green space. Having easy access to quality green spaces is a key part of a healthier lifestyle. More green spaces contribute to improved mental and physical health, air quality and temperature control, as well as providing vital habitat for nature.” In addition to Blenheim Estate Homes’ Hill Rise, build partner Pye Homes is also continuing to develop its greener community, Church Farm, in Radley, with homes for sale now, as well as a final spacious and family friendly home at Temple Gate in Marcham. Both locations offer a lifestyle centred around commitment to quality, heritage, community, and sustainable living that defines Pye Homes. To enquire about Hill Rise, contact the Blenheim Estate Homes team at Hillrise@pyehomes.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Warwick has unveiled a £700m investment in its West Midlands campus as part of its ambitious Connect Programme. This is the largest single investment in campus facilities across its entire 60-year history. The unprecedented investment will focus on the Social Sciences and STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and will facilitate an expansion in interdisciplinary education and research opportunities and new courses in both areas. The investment will also support expansion of the University’s purposeful collaboration and partnerships regionally, nationally and internationally. Today, plans were revealed for phase one of the investment, the STEM Connect Programme. This will see innovative spaces built for new state-of-the-art research and education programmes. From teaching rooms to laboratories, the facilities will enable the University to build on its innovation and research excellence and enhance its campus experience to create more learning opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of The University of Warwick, said: “The Connect Programme demonstrates how we are fostering curiosity and creativity and creating a lasting impact for years to come. We will equip our students, researchers and partners to tackle the urgent global challenges of today and tomorrow. “As we enter the first phase of the STEM Connect programme, The University of Warwick is leading the way in advancing STEM education and research, to inspire the next generation of innovators. 2025 marks 60 years of The University of Warwick and this investment reaffirms our commitment to making a better world together through our research, education and innovation. We are looking forward to further announcements about our Social Sciences Connect Programme later this year.” Professor Mark Williams, Academic Director for the STEM Connect Programme, said: “Through the STEM Connect Programme, we will firmly maintain The University of Warwick’s position as a global powerhouse for STEM, that will pave the way for groundbreaking research and education. The programme will also provide access to state-of-the-art facilities that will deliver both innovation and societal impact. “We will be creating an environment that will combine excellence with an interdisciplinary culture to create partnerships that will help address the world’s pressing challenges. This is a hugely ambitious project, and I am looking forward to working with our colleagues, students, business partners and wider community to deliver our vision.” The Connect Programme will attract and inspire the world’s brightest students and reinforce the University’s internationally recognised research and education work. For nearly 60 years, The University of Warwick has led on a vast array of pioneering research, including innovations to save lives through the early detection of skin cancer and dementia, to raising the profile of social isolation and loneliness as a human rights issue. The Connect Programme will also strengthen the economy by creating more than 1,500 construction-related jobs over the lifetime of the project, while also working with business, communities and local authorities, across the West Midlands and nationally, to enhance the UK’s knowledge base, skillset and innovation pedigree. Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Investing in STEM is essential for driving innovation that boosts our economy and creates quality jobs for people across the region. Universities like Warwick that invest heavily in Research and Development and STEM activities are key to achieving this, and their investment will help ensure the West Midlands stays at the forefront of the UK’s innovation and skills-based economy, benefiting both our communities and businesses.” Cllr Jim O’ Boyle, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change welcomed the investment: “Coventry has always been a dynamic and innovative city and the University’s investment, announced today, underlines our status. Working in partnership, we are creating the skilled jobs and workforce, as well as the technology and solutions, of the future. “As part of a major campus investment, The Connect Programme will create opportunity for students and staff, but also businesses, local partners, and the public sector who will benefit from collaborative new relationships. “The Connect Programme will positively impact the entire city and region and we will continue to work together with the University and other partners to unlock its potential.” Construction for the STEM Connect Programme is expected to commence over the coming 12 months. Further announcements on the Social Sciences Connect Programme will be released later this year, including a details of a significant capital project and the launch of new undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Whitbread, the parent company of Premier Inn, has sold 51 of its restaurants for £56 million as part of a major restructuring plan aimed at refocusing on its more profitable hotel operations. The sale is a key element of Whitbread’s wider strategy to streamline its portfolio and improve cost efficiency. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to divest 126 underperforming Beefeater and Brewers Fayre locations, in response to changing market conditions. Alongside the sales, Whitbread plans to repurpose 112 of these restaurant sites, converting them into additional hotel rooms to drive growth for its Premier Inn brand. The sale of the 51 sites marks an important step in Whitbread’s strategy to enhance profitability, particularly within a challenging hospitality sector. The food and beverage market has seen declining demand, with a notable drop in both business and leisure travel when compared to the post-pandemic surge of the previous year. Although Whitbread reported a total revenue of £1.57 billion for the six months leading up to August 29, its pre-tax profits have dropped by 22%. This decline has prompted the company to intensify its cost-cutting measures, targeting £50 million in annual savings as part of a long-term plan that extends to 2030. Furthermore, concerns over potential increases in employer taxes could add additional pressure on profitability within the industry. Looking ahead, Whitbread is fully committed to expanding its Premier Inn brand. The company has set an ambitious target to increase its room count from the current 86,000 to 125,000 across the UK and Ireland. Additionally, Whitbread is eyeing significant growth opportunities in Germany, which boasts a hotel market 40% larger than the UK. By shedding underperforming restaurant assets and reinvesting in its core hotel operations, Whitbread aims to secure a more streamlined and profitable future amidst an ever-evolving hospitality landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) has released a briefing, offering vital guidance for professionals in architectural technology. The report examines the recommendations from the inquiry’s Phase 2 findings and aims to establish best practices in the evolving regulatory landscape. A Focus on Building Safety After Grenfell The Grenfell Tower fire tragically exposed widespread failings in building safety, including governance, regulatory compliance, procurement, and project delivery. Phase 2 of the inquiry specifically investigated these systemic shortcomings, resulting in 58 recommendations designed to improve safety standards throughout the construction and maintenance chain. CIAT’s briefing is intended to help architectural technologists prepare for the impending regulatory changes and ensure that their work adheres to the highest safety standards. It acknowledges that the profession must evolve alongside these new expectations and that the lessons learned from Grenfell should drive a commitment to improving building safety. Preparing for Regulatory Changes The briefing highlights the Labour Government’s pledge to review the Phase 2 recommendations and implement a “generational shift” in building safety, including updates to Parliament on progress. Anticipated changes include enhanced oversight of materials, stricter building requirements, and greater responsibilities for design professionals. CIAT advises architectural technologists to stay ahead of these changes by exceeding current regulations and avoiding practices that prioritise cost over quality. This proactive approach is seen as essential to rebuilding trust in the safety of UK buildings and ensuring long-term compliance. Maintaining High Professional Standards A key takeaway from the CIAT briefing is that architects and technologists must take full responsibility for the safety and quality of their work. This includes ensuring that all project records are properly maintained, particularly the “Golden Thread” of information required by the Building Safety Act 2022, which tracks the design and realisation of high-risk buildings (HRBs). CIAT also emphasises the importance of upholding professional standards as outlined in its Code of Conduct and Professional Standards Framework. For those aspiring to become Principal Designers under the Building Regulations, CIAT stresses the need for appropriate skills, knowledge, and experience to fulfil the role effectively. A Commitment to Safer Buildings CIAT’s guidance serves as a crucial resource for architectural technologists navigating the post-Grenfell regulatory environment. By committing to the highest safety standards, professionals can play a key role in ensuring that the built environment becomes safer and more resilient in the years to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pradera Lateral has been appointed as the new asset manager for four major shopping centres, previously managed by Global Mutual, as SGS aims to usher in a new era of growth for these high-profile retail destinations. The centres now under Pradera Lateral’s management include the Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex, Atria Watford, Victoria Centre in Nottingham, and Braehead Shopping Centre near Glasgow – all iconic shopping hubs in their respective regions. Lakeside Shopping Centre, a premier regional retail destination, spans 1.6 million sq ft and boasts over 250 shops and restaurants, along with a vibrant leisure offering. Major tenants include M&S, NEXT, Zara, H&M, Primark, and Apple. Atria Watford, situated in the heart of the town, covers 1.4 million sq ft and offers a variety of retail outlets, cafés, bars, restaurants, and a nine-screen Cineworld cinema. Its key tenants include M&S, Zara, H&M, Apple, Next, and Primark. Nottingham’s Victoria Centre, opened in 1972 after a regeneration project that transformed a former railway station, extends over 950,000 sq ft. This mixed-use development features 120 stores, including anchor tenants John Lewis and House of Fraser, along with residential flats and office space. Other notable retailers include Next, WHSmith, Boots, and EE. Braehead Shopping Centre, just outside Glasgow, spans 1.1 million sq ft and offers retail, leisure, and food spaces, alongside 7,900 free parking spaces and convenient public transport links. The centre welcomes 16.5 million visitors annually and is home to 120 UK and international brands. SGS believes that Pradera Lateral’s appointment will drive the growth of these shopping centres, particularly with the recent addition of Philip Wardle, who joined from British Land’s mall leasing team. Wardle will collaborate closely with Pradera Lateral and its new CEO, Claire Barber, to lead the next phase of development. Barry Cox, Managing Director of Pradera, expressed excitement for the future, saying: “We are grateful to SGS for placing their trust in us, and we’re eager to take this portfolio of prime shopping centres into a new chapter of growth. With ambitious plans in place, we look forward to working closely with Claire Barber and her team to realise the full potential of these centres.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NIBE Energy Systems, Europe’s leading heat pump manufacturer, has enhanced its UK delivery service by partnering with the Ziegler Group, a global logistics provider that shares NIBE’s ethos of maintaining a human, customer-focused and sustainable approach at the core if its operations. NIBE deliveries now come from Ziegler’s brand-new state-of-the-art distribution centre in Stanford-le-Hope, Essex. The move to Ziegler is part of NIBE’s general growth strategy, and broadened routes to market, which also includes direct to merchant. As NIBE is solely focused on renewable technologies, reducing carbon footprints for its customers and within its own operations, Ziegler is a good fit, committed to improving sustainability, through a range of measures, including a move to zero emissions vehicles, reducing CO2, and the use of digital supply chain management solutions to improve efficiency and productivity. Paul Smith, MD for NIBE, said: “We are delighted to partner with Ziegler, the company has a proven track-record of reliability and success, and shares core values with NIBE. Ensuring the safe and ‘on time’ passage of our heat pumps and supporting equipment is essential to business growth and the satisfaction of our customers. As NIBE expands its offering and routes to market, we feel confident that Ziegler is the right delivery service provider to support our evolving requirements.” “Despite its size, the Ziegler Group is committed to a ‘family-run’ approach, with its numerous locations allowing the company to provide a local service, with great responsiveness and flexibility. This mirrors NIBE’s own values – we’re a global business with region specific operations; something we feel is essential to building customer relationships and providing the best possible service.” Logistics Manager, Darrell Noble from Ziegler, said: “Ziegler are thrilled to announce our exciting new partnership with NIBE, a market leader in sustainable energy solutions. We will proudly manage NIBE’s UK supply chain, ensuring swift and efficient delivery of their innovative products to customers. It illustrates Ziegler’s progression and growth within the industry with a focus on contributing towards driving the NIBE brand forward. We’re also delighted to be partnering with a sustainability focused business, reflected in our own efforts in supporting environmental change.” The process of ordering from NIBE won’t change, orders should be placed through its Installer Care team. www.nibe.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new company, Steel River Power Limited (“Steel River Power”), has been created to build, own, and operate what will become the largest private wire network in the UK and deliver power to occupiers on the giant Teesworks development site, located in the Tees Valley in the North East of England. Steel River Power will invest upwards of £100 million, directly employ more than 20 people, and indirectly employ hundreds more to upgrade and expand the existing private electricity distribution network to accommodate the current and future needs of tenants on the Teesworks site. The scale of this direct investment in electricity network infrastructure will enable the accelerated and mission-led growth of net zero and sustainable industry on the Teesworks site. Steel River Power Limited is a 50:50 joint venture between Steel River Energy Limited (“Steel River Energy”) and North West Electricity Networks (UK) Limited (“NWEN (UK)”). Ian Smyth, CEO of NWEN (UK) said: “This is a substantial investment to build the electricity infrastructure required to achieve net zero in the UK. We are extremely excited to deliver our expertise to create the infrastructure that will generate high-value jobs and unlock sustainable economic growth. “This investment cements NWEN (UK) as a leading provider of private electricity distribution network solutions.” Chris Musgrave OBE, chairman of Teesworks Limited, said: “This is a massive step forward for Teesworks. Upgrading and expanding the private wire network will mean occupiers on the site have access to a safe and reliable electricity network with sufficient capacity to support their operations and growth. It is the backbone utility for Teesworks. “Getting a new or expanded direct connection to the National Grid can take up to ten years, but tenants on the Teesworks site can obtain a connection to the Steel River Power private wire network immediately, unlocking development in the region.” Martin Corney, director of Steel River Energy said: “Selected after a competitive process, NWEN (UK) are one of the most experienced and best performing operators of electricity infrastructure in the UK and hence tenants of the Teesworks site will benefit from their decades of expertise in the sector when it comes to designing, constructing, and operating the Steel River Power network.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Therme Manchester has received approval from Trafford Council for its Section 73 planning amendment, marking a significant step forward in the development of the UK’s first immersive wellbeing resort. The approval coincides with the start of enabling work on-site, including the demolition of pre-existing concrete slabs, which will be conserved and reused in construction. Site hoarding, utility works, and offices have been set up, and a 200-metre borehole has been drilled to assess the site’s natural thermal capacity—key to the resort’s sustainable and energy-efficient design. The planning amendments reflect Therme’s focus on sustainability, community, and architectural innovation. The new designs will incorporate advanced energy-efficient technologies, such as ground and air heat pumps, significantly reducing the resort’s CO2 emissions and water usage. The refined design also optimises the use of materials like glass, steel, and concrete, ensuring both a premium guest experience and environmental mindfulness. Accessibility enhancements have also been made, including a welcoming drop-off point on Phoenix Way and expanded public realm areas across the 28-acre site. These new spaces will create a serene environment, encouraging visitors to connect with nature. Existing routes for coaches, taxis, and parking on Mercury Way remain unchanged, while walking and cycling paths between the Bridgewater Canal and Metrolink will be preserved, promoting active travel. Therme Manchester, guided by its “wellbeing for all” ethos, will offer holistic and affordably priced experiences for guests of all ages. The resort will feature thermal bathing, saunas, family-friendly water attractions, botanical gardens, personalised treatments, nutritious dining options, and immersive art programmes—providing a unique wellness experience not yet seen in the UK. The opening date for the resort has yet to be announced. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
FLEXI-job apprenticeship agency EN:Able Futures continues to lead the way in supporting construction apprenticeships, rising top of the podium at last week’s Construction Apprenticeship Awards. A division of Efficiency North Holdings, the service was named Construction Apprenticeship Employer of the Year, solidifying its reputation as a leader in nurturing the next generation of talent across the built environment sector. To enhance its already impressive accolades, two of EN:Able Futures’ apprentices were also recognised at the ceremony. Lauren Raynor, who is hosted by Alan Wood & Partners, was awarded Level 3 Construction Apprentice of the Year, while Liam Mansbridge, hosted by Termrim Construction, won Level 4 Construction Apprentice of the Year. These wins continue a proud tradition for the agency, as the team has previously celebrated success at the Construction Apprenticeship Awards through its apprentices, who received individual awards in 2022 and 2023. Julie Deeley, director of operations at EN:Able Futures, said: “Winning Construction Apprenticeship Employer of the Year is a testament to our apprentices’ hard work, host employers, and our team’s dedication alike to deliver opportunities that translate into job-ready skills, while steering the trajectory of our sector. “Seeing Lauren and Liam excel in their roles is what drives us to continue serving talented individuals to thrive and fast track their professional growth. Once again, we are proud to show that apprenticeships are not just an alternative path to higher education, but a powerful tool for transforming the workforce development and future of construction.” EN:Able Futures has a proven track record in creating pathways for young people across the north of England by providing routes for development along the construction industry. To date, the agency has supported more than 500 apprentices to prepare for the workforce, providing high-quality training and steadfast support while addressing the industry’s critical skills shortage. The construction industry continues to face a workforce gap, with 250,000 additional skilled workers required by 2027, according to the latest CITB figures. Apprenticeships like those facilitated by EN:Able Futures are key to unlocking opportunities that can address this shortfall. In 2023 alone, only 22,310 apprenticeships were started in the construction sector, despite the growing demand for trained professionals. EN:Able Futures has earned multiple accolades this year, to only name a few: SME Employer of the Year at the East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards, and Apprenticeship Employer of the Year at the Yorkshire and Humber regional apprenticeship and skills awards. The latter, organised by the Department for Education, has secured the service a place in the national finals, which will take place in London on 27 November. These achievements reflect the agency’s commitment to excellence and success as apprenticeship delivery provider, paving the way to prepare the workforce of tomorrow. For more information about EN:Able Futures, visit: https://www.efficiencynorth.org/futures Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
