Leading property investor and developer Prologis has announced a £500 million investment in Cambridge Biomedical Campus (CBC), a move that aligns with the Chancellor’s recent commitment to the life sciences sector in the Autumn Budget. With the completion of Phase 2, Prologis’ total investment in the campus now stands at
LandsecU+I, the regeneration arm of FTSE100 real estate giant Landsec, has submitted ambitious plans to transform Lewisham Shopping Centre into a vibrant, sustainable town centre. The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver a blend of housing, green spaces, and lively social areas, revitalising the site while preserving its role as a
A major new public-private partnership aimed at delivering affordable, sustainable housing has been launched by Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), a leading UK investor in housing and infrastructure, and national placemaker Muse, in collaboration with Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency. The partnership, named Habiko, is set to deliver
Leading independent housebuilder City & Country has pledged its support for a new national campaign by Pocket Living urging the Government to help unlock the potential of small and medium-sized developers to end the housing crisis. Pocket Living’s “Get SMEs Building Again” reports the difficulties that SME housebuilders face and
EMCOR UK has launched its new comprehensive asset management service that draws on its engineering expertise – both its heritage and its people – to deliver exceptional asset management. Asset Dynamics is a standalone, highly adaptable service developed following a rigorous process that included customer feedback and market research. Where
Fortel Group, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of construction labour, has announced theappointment of Anthony Nelson as Business Development Manager. With over 20 years ofexperience across various sectors of the construction industry, Anthony brings a wealth ofknowledge and expertise that will play a key role in Fortel’s plans to
A North Wales-based engineering, environmental, and planning consultancy’s expertise is a catalyst for an increased workload and subsequent recruitment drive. Caulmert, which has offices in St Asaph, Bangor, Altrincham, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Kent, is providing a vast array of services in a variety of sectors across the UK as it
Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, today announces that it has been awarded a $746 million (£575 million) contract by the Texas Department of Transportation to rebuild part of the Interstate 35 (I-35) through Austin in Texas. Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, said: “This latest contract award demonstrates
The UK’s notoriously changeable weather presents unique challenges for construction professionals when specifying flooring systems. From driving rain and high humidity to sudden temperature fluctuations, British weather demands careful consideration of flooring materials and their supporting components. “The UK’s climate significantly influences flooring performance, particularly in new builds where moisture
Leading property investor and developer Prologis has announced a £500 million investment in Cambridge Biomedical Campus (CBC), a move that aligns with the Chancellor’s recent commitment to the life sciences sector in the Autumn Budget. With the completion of Phase 2, Prologis’ total investment in the campus now stands at £500 million ($635 million). In addition to expanding CBC, Prologis will also host a pavilion at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), the UK’s largest investment and infrastructure conference. This pavilion will provide a platform for discussions around sustainable development and networking with potential partners, reinforcing Prologis’ dedication to advancing the UK property landscape. State-of-the-Art Life Sciences FacilitiesAt the heart of Prologis’ latest development is 2000 Discovery Drive, a new six-storey facility designed for life sciences, offering a blend of laboratory and office space across 115,000 sq. ft. This cutting-edge building will serve as a launchpad for scale-ups and research-driven life sciences firms, enhancing CBC’s globally recognised ecosystem that unites clinical, academic, and commercial leaders. The project is a product of a longstanding public-private partnership, which previously delivered 1000 Discovery Drive—home to key tenants like Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and a major European biotech firm. Infrastructure and Community BenefitsThe development of 2000 Discovery Drive includes significant shared infrastructure enhancements for the campus and surrounding community. Planned additions include a semi-sunken CycleParc with 450 spaces, multistorey parking, and extensive landscape-led design, creating improved public spaces and expanded cycle paths. Furthermore, the opening of the new Cambridge South station in summer 2025 will bolster connectivity for campus users. Currently, CBC contributes £4.2 billion in annual gross value added (GVA) to the UK economy, a figure projected to grow as Prologis and CBC continue to expand. Prologis’ investment is expected to directly and indirectly support over 4,000 skilled jobs in the life sciences sector. Future Expansion PlansPlanning consent has also been granted for 3000 Discovery Drive, a speculative 100,000 sq. ft. development that will form part of CBC’s Phase 2 expansion, providing further high-quality space for the life sciences industry. Government and Industry SupportChancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves commented on the importance of Prologis’ investment: “This commitment from Prologis—so soon after the government’s first Budget—underscores confidence in our vision for the UK economy.” Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle added, “Major investments like this bring global leaders in life sciences under one roof and underscore the UK’s strategy for sustained growth.” Andrew Blevins, Head of Life Sciences at Prologis, reinforced this sentiment, stating, “Our work at Cambridge Biomedical Campus exemplifies the impact of public-private partnerships in the UK life sciences sector. With developments like 2000 Discovery Drive, we’re advancing spaces that support job creation, foster innovation, and contribute to both the local and national economy.” Blevins added that providing sustainable, modern spaces for life sciences and associated supply chains is essential to the UK’s Industrial & Logistics sector. This investment forms part of Prologis’ broader strategy, which spans over 25 years, to deliver specialised infrastructure and green energy solutions for high-growth sectors, including data centres and manufacturing facilities, highlighted in the government’s latest Industrial Strategy Green Paper. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LandsecU+I, the regeneration arm of FTSE100 real estate giant Landsec, has submitted ambitious plans to transform Lewisham Shopping Centre into a vibrant, sustainable town centre. The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver a blend of housing, green spaces, and lively social areas, revitalising the site while preserving its role as a community hub. The plans envision 1,700 new homes, 445 co-living units, and accommodation for up to 660 students. Alongside housing, the development will introduce a pedestrianised high street with a variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars, plus a 500-person live music venue, creating a new cultural destination for the borough. At the centre of the eight-acre site, an expansive urban meadow will provide much-needed green space, offering residents and visitors an oasis amidst the lively town centre. To support continuity for the local community, the redevelopment will take a phased approach, allowing sections of the existing shopping centre to remain open throughout construction. LandsecU+I plans to retain as much of the original structure as possible, preserving key aspects of the centre’s heritage while introducing modern, sustainable elements. Mike Hood, CEO of LandsecU+I, highlighted the impact of this proposal, stating, “This submission marks a milestone in our journey to create a vibrant green heart for Lewisham. We aim to deliver a place that people will cherish, bringing social and economic transformation, thousands of essential homes, and a beautiful meadow above a revitalised shopping centre.” The masterplan follows an extensive two-decade collaboration with the Lewisham community, with thousands of residents contributing to the vision through one of Landsec’s largest public engagement initiatives. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major new public-private partnership aimed at delivering affordable, sustainable housing has been launched by Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), a leading UK investor in housing and infrastructure, and national placemaker Muse, in collaboration with Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency. The partnership, named Habiko, is set to deliver 3,000 low-carbon, energy-efficient affordable homes across England over a 12-year period, addressing critical housing needs while unlocking large-scale institutional investment. Designed to become self-sustaining, Habiko will focus on delivering high-quality, affordable rental homes at rents set 20% below local market rates, prioritising areas where housing demand is high. Affordable Housing with a Focus on Energy EfficiencyHabiko’s housing developments aim to provide up to 100% affordable homes for rent, offering essential options for those whose housing needs are not met by the market. By incorporating low-energy, low-carbon design principles, these homes will help residents reduce their energy bills while contributing to the UK’s climate goals. Homes will be strategically located near employment hubs, ensuring accessibility to jobs and essential services, with a commitment to creating social value and economic benefits for local communities. Investing in Communities and Sustainable DevelopmentThrough PIC’s long-term stewardship model, this partnership will bring both financial security and social benefits. PIC’s ongoing investment, with the flexibility to forward fund development throughout the 12-year programme, will allow it to ultimately own and manage these homes, providing secure, inflation-linked cashflows to back the pensions of its policyholders. PIC has already invested around £4 billion in social and affordable housing, reinforcing its role in creating resilient, community-oriented housing solutions. Habiko’s construction approach will also diversify the housing supply chain, encouraging innovative building techniques and green skills development in local communities. This initiative is anticipated to boost local economies by creating jobs and training opportunities aligned with sustainable housing goals. Showcasing Innovation at UKREiiFMuse, PIC, and Homes England will promote the Habiko partnership at the upcoming UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), the UK’s leading platform for investment in sustainable infrastructure. Their presence will allow them to engage with other stakeholders, discuss strategies to expand affordable housing, and showcase their joint commitment to addressing the housing crisis through innovative, community-centred, and environmentally resilient solutions. Tracy Blackwell, CEO of PIC, emphasised the importance of collaboration, saying, “Meeting the UK’s affordable housing needs requires the combined efforts of government, developers, and private investors. Habiko demonstrates how public-private partnerships can create low-carbon, low-energy affordable homes, aligning with our commitment to secure cashflows for our policyholders and generate considerable social value.” Phil Mayall, Managing Director at Muse, echoed this sentiment, “The government has set an ambitious target for affordable housing. By collaborating with PIC and Homes England, we can harness our collective expertise to deliver thousands of low-carbon homes that truly meet the needs of communities nationwide.” Peter Denton, CEO of Homes England, added, “Institutional investment is vital to meet the demand for new homes. Habiko combines Muse’s technical expertise with PIC’s financial strength, positioning this partnership as a pivotal force in delivering low-carbon, affordable housing across England.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading independent housebuilder City & Country has pledged its support for a new national campaign by Pocket Living urging the Government to help unlock the potential of small and medium-sized developers to end the housing crisis. Pocket Living’s “Get SMEs Building Again” reports the difficulties that SME housebuilders face and puts forward a 10-point plan to boost housing delivery by levelling the playing field. The report notes that the number of SME housebuilders has plummeted from 12,000 in the 1980s to just 2,500 today, with the sector now building just 10% of the UK’s new homes, compared with nearly half of homes in the 1970s. Pocket Living, supported by City & Country and a number of other developers, has put forward a manifesto of recommendations that it believes will revitalise the struggling small and medium-sized housebuilder sector and massively speed up the number of homes being built on smaller sites across the country. Wayne Douglas, Managing Director at City & Country, comments: “The report by Pocket Living clearly highlights the difficulties that SMEs face, and puts forward a sound and well-researched plan that could unlock the full potential of smaller businesses to create the homes the country so badly needs. At City & Country, we are keen to support it and would encourage the Government to take urgent action to put smaller developers back at the heart of housebuilding. “SMEs have a vital role to play in the housing market, but there are too many barriers in their way – the pace of planning is one such hurdle, but another significant barrier is the cost of finance when the planning and discharge process can be so lengthy and uncertain. For SMEs, the risk we take on can mean we can on otherwise viable schemes, struggle to break even on a building project company whereas with more speed and certainty of timing, more schemes could be viably delivered. The Government should look at offering zero or low-cost finance through Homes England to reduce the inherent risk to development from these causes coupled with their plans for the panning system to make more schemes viable. This would increase the speed at which development is unlocked across the country and result in more variety of the types of housing schemes which are delivered.” Paul Rickard, Managing Director at Pocket Living, adds: “Small and medium-sized housebuilders have a wealth of skill and talent that needs to be supported. In London alone, the number of SMEs has plummeted by 66% since Pocket was founded two decades ago, making it harder and harder to get new homes built on smaller sites – especially since delays in planning consent are more damaging to smaller businesses. We are delighted that City & Country has joined our campaign, and we look forward to discussing these proposals in detail with the Government. All of the steps included in Get SMEs Building Again are designed to be cost-neutral for the Treasury and should be low-hanging fruit for the Chancellor.” City & Country specialises in both high-quality new build developments and the restoration and conversion of historic and listed buildings, with sites across Essex, West Sussex, Wiltshire, London, Edinburgh, Bristol, and Dorset. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
EMCOR UK has launched its new comprehensive asset management service that draws on its engineering expertise – both its heritage and its people – to deliver exceptional asset management. Asset Dynamics is a standalone, highly adaptable service developed following a rigorous process that included customer feedback and market research. Where other asset management systems are often integrated as part of another service, Asset Dynamics will be delivered by a dedicated team of industry experts. It will combine advanced asset data management and rigorous safety, compliance and quality assurance standards so that EMCOR UK’s expert asset management team can tailor customer strategies, maintenance and management plans to balance cost, efficiency, criticality, risk, and environmental impact. Asset Dynamics offers a modular approach to support customers wherever they are in their asset management journey. The modules are: The service has been developed to respond to market trends, including improving operational efficiency, providing greater budget and cost certainty, and demand for more sustainable practices, as well as to address customer needs such as meeting compliance standards and operating smart buildings. Asset Dynamics is part of EMCOR UK’s five key areas of customer-centric services; the others are Carbon Transformation, Insight Intelligence, Facilities Management, and Workplace Evolution. Jessica Rauf-Thomas, head of operational asset management at EMCOR UK, said: “This launch is the culmination of research and conversations with customers to understand exactly what they need from an asset management system in facilities management. Asset Dynamics will be underpinned by our engineering excellence and innovative nature, ensuring that our customers have access to the one of the industry’s most comprehensive asset management system. It will be particularly beneficial for our customers in business-critical sectors such as defence, government, utilities and life sciences, and the early feedback we’ve had has been fantastic.” For more information on EMCOR UK’s Asset Dynamics service, visit www.emcoruk.com/our-services/asset-dynamics. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Fortel Group, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of construction labour, has announced theappointment of Anthony Nelson as Business Development Manager. With over 20 years ofexperience across various sectors of the construction industry, Anthony brings a wealth ofknowledge and expertise that will play a key role in Fortel’s plans to diversify its offerings. Anthony’s career began at Winvic, where he rose through the ranks over 18 years, holdingpositions from trainee to project manager. His extensive experience with main contractorsprovided him with a deep understanding of project management and business development.Following his time at Winvic, Anthony moved to an architectural metalwork supplier, wherehe spent four years as Business Development Director. Reflecting on his new role at Fortel, Anthony said: “I’m excited to be joining Fortel at a timewhen the company is looking to broaden its scope. Fortel has a strong reputation in concreteservices, and I’m looking forward to leveraging my experience to help the company transitioninto turnkey projects. The potential for growth is significant, and I’m eager to be a part of it.” In his new role, Anthony will support Fortel’s concrete services, where the company is aleading UK specialist in concrete slabs. Fortel’s comprehensive offerings include internalslabs, composite decks, structural toppings, and external yard flooring, serving diversesectors. Amar Sandhawalia, Chief Operating Officer at Fortel Group, expressed his confidence inAnthony’s abilities: “Anthony’s extensive background in both main contracting andsubcontracting makes him the perfect candidate to lead our business development. Hisknowledge and leadership will be critical as we move into new areas, and we’re excited tosee the impact he will have on Fortel’s future.” Fortel Group, headquartered in Walsall, is a major player in the construction industry,supplying labour for rail, infrastructure, and large-scale construction projects throughout theUK. For more information, visit www.fortel.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A North Wales-based engineering, environmental, and planning consultancy’s expertise is a catalyst for an increased workload and subsequent recruitment drive. Caulmert, which has offices in St Asaph, Bangor, Altrincham, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Kent, is providing a vast array of services in a variety of sectors across the UK as it marks 15 years in business. The 50-strong workforce is lending its knowledge and skillset in activities including civil engineering, geotechnical, structural, planning, project management, compliance and permitting, and land assessments. As part of its bid to double turnover to more than £8m in the next five years, Caulmert is undertaking activity on numerous schemes, including for Morgan Sindall Infrastructure as part of Merseyrail’s desire to improve several train stations. Under the Access for All initiative, the consultancy has completed detailed designs, with work including installing lifts and creating improved access staircases, raised walkways, footbridges, and associated retaining walls. Activity at St Michaels and Hunts Cross has already been completed with Rock Ferry, Aigburth, and Sandhills currently underway. Design work at ENGIE’s Dinorwig Power Station involves proposals for a new drainage system in the main inlet valve is also ongoing, whilst Caulmert’s team of planning experts are combining on the Bala Lake Railway Trust’s idea to extend the line into the town centre. Supporting the Manx government’s challenge to uncover a strategy for the disposal of 3,000 tones of sediment that settles in a harbour each year, as well as providing structural and geotechnical support on the Vale of York Motorway Services Area, have also been projects of note. Amongst Caulmert’s clients are the National Trust, Tiger Tim, Alun Griffiths Contractors, Ellis Williams Architects, Deeside Power (UK) Ltd, C2 Construction Ltd, Cartrefi Conwy, Plastecowood, and KDM Group. The workload has also led to a double-digit number of job opportunities throughout the consultancy as Caulmert bids to strengthen its talented team. Founder and managing director Mike Caulfield said: “Our expertise is evident to all employees, but it is only when you take a step back and look at the variety of projects and sectors in which we work that you appreciate the scope. “We have a hugely talented workforce which continues to evolve and grow to meet the demands of each and every scheme we have the pleasure of being a part of. “The future looks to be a bright one. Businesses have had to navigate a difficult landscape in recent years, so to be positive about the coming weeks, months, and years is wonderful. “We’ve set impressive progression plans around turnover and further strengthening our team of experts.” Helping to shape the future of Caulmert, which has acquired Sheffield-based Crowley Associates, is a new-look board that features business development manager Ffrancon Williams and director of planning Susan Crowley. Founded in 2009, Caulmert is on track to meet an ambitious growth and development plan. Its expertise in a variety of engineering, environmental, planning, and project management disciplines is supported by its use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to a level two standard on many of its projects. For more information visit www.caulmert.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Balfour Beatty, the international infrastructure group, today announces that it has been awarded a $746 million (£575 million) contract by the Texas Department of Transportation to rebuild part of the Interstate 35 (I-35) through Austin in Texas. Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, said: “This latest contract award demonstrates our leading civil engineering capabilities and is testament to our 30-year history of delivering projects for the Texas Department of Transportation. Our selective bidding approach ensures that we leverage our strengths to work with long-term customers in the geographies in which we have proven expertise, strong teams and trusted supply chain partners.” Balfour Beatty will reconstruct a four-kilometre section of the route on the south side of downtown Austin which on completion will provide eight general purpose lanes, a major new intersection and multiple upgraded access roads. A new bridge will also be built across the 416-acre Lady Bird Lake located on the Colorado River, replacing the existing bridge which was built in 1956. Due to the expansive area and water-based nature of the works, the bridge will be constructed from a barge, requiring complex engineering and marine expertise. Additionally, the project features a bridge and innovative intersection at Riverside Drive to support the future light rail line which will expand and improve the public transport network in the Central Texas Region. The project forms part of the Texas Department of Transportation’s I-35 Capital Express Central project to significantly improve connectivity and enhance capacity for the 200,000 drivers who use this segment of the interstate daily. Main construction will commence in the first half of 2025 with completion expected in 2033. At peak construction, Balfour Beatty will directly employ over 150 people. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s notoriously changeable weather presents unique challenges for construction professionals when specifying flooring systems. From driving rain and high humidity to sudden temperature fluctuations, British weather demands careful consideration of flooring materials and their supporting components. “The UK’s climate significantly influences flooring performance, particularly in new builds where moisture levels are already high from construction,” explains Simply Underlay GM Mike Jones. “Selecting appropriate underlay and flooring combinations is crucial for managing moisture, temperature fluctuations, and seasonal movement of materials.” Regional Challenges The varying climate across British regions creates distinct challenges for flooring specifications. In northern regions, harsher winters demand enhanced thermal insulation properties and increased moisture protection. Frost resistance becomes crucial for ground floors, while superior vapour barriers are essential for long-term performance. Coastal areas present their own set of challenges, where salt-spray and wind-driven rain can significantly impact flooring systems. In these locations, specifiers must prioritise corrosion-resistant fixings and enhanced water-resistance properties. Meanwhile, urban centres face different issues, with the heat island effect and pollution requiring careful consideration of material durability and resistance. Material Considerations When it comes to timber flooring, the British climate demands particular attention to installation processes. Proper acclimatisation periods of at least 48-72 hours are essential, and moisture metres should be used to verify conditions before installation begins. Quality underlay and appropriate moisture barriers become crucial elements in protecting these natural materials from the UK’s humid conditions. Carpet systems require special attention in Britain’s damp climate. Mould-resistant underlay and adequate ventilation provisions are essential, while moisture-resistant adhesives help ensure long-term performance. Regular maintenance becomes particularly important in maintaining carpet quality under these conditions, especially considering reports of how black mould is increasingly prevalent in the UK. “Hard flooring options like tile, stone, and vinyl systems need careful consideration of subfloor preparation and movement accommodation,” says Jones. “The UK’s temperature fluctuations mean flexible adhesives and proper movement joints are essential for preventing future issues.” Best Practice Approach Successful flooring installation in the UK climate begins with thorough site assessment. Understanding ground conditions, local weather patterns, and historical flooding data helps inform appropriate material selection and installation timing. Storage of materials becomes equally important, with consistent temperatures and protection from weather exposure essential for optimal results. Installation timing can significantly impact project success. Planning around weather forecasts and allowing for seasonal adjustments helps ensure optimal conditions for installation. Temperature and humidity monitoring throughout the process helps prevent future issues related to material movement or moisture damage. Future Considerations As climate change continues to impact weather patterns across the UK, specifiers must consider increasing risks of flooding, more extreme temperature variations, and higher humidity levels. The construction industry is responding with advanced moisture-resistant materials and smart temperature-regulating systems, while improvements in underlay technologies offer enhanced protection against these challenges. Regulatory compliance remains crucial, with ongoing updates to Building Regulations and environmental standards requiring constant attention. Performance requirements and installation guidelines continue to evolve in response to changing climate conditions and improved understanding of material behaviour. “Successful flooring specification in the UK requires a thorough understanding of local climate conditions and their impact on building materials,” Jones says. As a result, construction professionals must balance performance requirements with practical considerations while maintaining compliance with current regulations and standards. As weather patterns continue to evolve, staying informed about new materials and technologies will be crucial for successful project delivery. The key to success lies in understanding the unique challenges presented by the UK climate and selecting materials and systems designed to perform effectively under these conditions. With proper planning and appropriate material selection, construction professionals can ensure long-term flooring performance despite the challenging British weather.
