FI Real Estate Management (FIREM) has submitted plans to Chorley Council for a major 1.3 million sq ft industrial development, strategically positioned on 100 acres near the Chorley and Blackburn border at Junction 3 of the M65. Designed to address a regional shortage of large industrial spaces, the project proposes
A new season of construction is underway in Antarctica for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Specialist teams are arriving at Rothera, the UK’s largest research station and gateway for international science and collaboration. The season’s focus is completing the Discovery Building, a new, purpose-built scientific support and operations facility which
Sempra Homes has celebrated a significant milestone at its Broadmayne development in Basildon, reaching the topping-out stage for the first two affordable homes on the development. Helping to address the critical need for affordable homes in the area, this project will deliver 35 new family homes, including 17 social rent
Greatfields School, in the heart of Barking, East London, has officially been completed as part of a transformational build programme. Net Zero Panels (NZP), a specialised division of Net Zero Buildings and part of the Premier Modular Group, worked with main contractor, Auburn Group, to deliver the third and final
Aldi has announced plans to open 11 new stores across the UK in the lead-up to Christmas, enhancing its presence in communities nationwide. The first wave of openings includes stores in Sedgley in the West Midlands and Castle Douglas in Scotland, set to welcome shoppers this week. Later in November,
The final phase of plans to develop Newbury Farm, Cambridge, have been green-lit. The development will deliver 150 mixed-tenure houses and apartments, as well as community and commercial spaces to enhance both the project’s appeal and functionality, thanks to an equal partnership between Cambridge City Council and award-winning housebuilder The
TWO planning applications have been submitted as part of a renovation project at award-winning five-star resort hotel Rockliffe Hall, with the transformation aimed at cementing its reputation as the leading resort with international appeal in the North East. The first planning application seeks approval for a purpose-built pavilion that will
A Swansea city centre scheme for a new hub has progressed significantly after planning permission was awarded approval. Plans from Urban Splash include the development of a public sector hub building, complete with commercial floor space for shops and restaurants, as well as office space for council and a range
Temporary works specialist Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK) has partnered with HS2’s construction partner for the Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and leading civil engineering and groundworks contractor, Galldris, to support the realignment of the A452 road over the new HS2 rail line. Project Overview The A452 Kenilworth Road Overbridge
DiPerk Power Solutions, the sole authorised distributor of Perkins engines in the UK and Ireland, has supplied Stage V-compliant Perkins 1204J engines to Regency Power Generators for use in the HS2 high-speed rail project. The compliance to high emission standards means the 1204J qualifies to work in the clean air
FI Real Estate Management (FIREM) has submitted plans to Chorley Council for a major 1.3 million sq ft industrial development, strategically positioned on 100 acres near the Chorley and Blackburn border at Junction 3 of the M65. Designed to address a regional shortage of large industrial spaces, the project proposes two substantial units to meet growing demand for logistics and industrial facilities in the area. The proposed development is anticipated to bring significant economic benefits, with FIREM estimating up to 1,300 new jobs and a boost of nearly £400 million to the local economy. Although the site falls within the Green Belt, the Central Lancashire Local Plan has earmarked the M65 corridor in Chorley as a key area for future employment and development. Tim Knowles, founder and managing director of FIREM, highlighted the strategic importance of the scheme: “There are currently no commercial spaces of this scale in the region. This development will attract a new wave of businesses to Chorley and drive job creation for the local community.” This ambitious proposal follows FIREM’s ongoing redevelopment of the Botany Bay site, a three-phase, 1 million sq ft project off Junction 8 of the M61. “Our latest plans aim to draw more inward investment into Chorley and its surroundings. As a long-term investor, we’ll manage this site as a driver for future growth in the region,” Knowles added. FIREM’s expansion has been rapid, with the firm currently delivering 2.3 million sq ft of new-build space in Chorley, alongside a prominent presence on Wrexham Industrial Estate, where it holds a 3.1 million sq ft portfolio. Nationwide, FIREM’s holdings span 15 million sq ft, underscoring its role as a key player in the UK’s industrial and logistics landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new season of construction is underway in Antarctica for the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Specialist teams are arriving at Rothera, the UK’s largest research station and gateway for international science and collaboration. The season’s focus is completing the Discovery Building, a new, purpose-built scientific support and operations facility which will support the whole of Rothera research station. Work now in progress The construction teams arriving in Rothera will first clear the large amount of snow which has accumulated over the Antarctic winter. From November, they will be completing the inside of the Discovery Building, and externally, the wind deflector and the roof. This purpose-built facility will undergo testing of critical systems so that it is ready to hand over to BAS in April 2025. Essential work will also be taking place across the rest of the station. Delivering Antarctic modernisation The Discovery Building is the latest project in a programme of modernisation which is transforming the way BAS operates in Antarctica. Modern facilities The Discovery Building provides up to date operational facilities designed to support the evolving needs of scientific research at Rothera, both now and in the future. Teamwork in extreme conditions With fluctuating temperatures and periods of extreme cold ranging from minus 22 to plus 15 degrees Celsius, Rothera Research Station is the one of the world’s most extreme construction sites. Working alongside partners, BAM, Ramboll, Sweco, GA Barnies, Turner and Townsend and Hugh Broughton Architects brings together the specialist expertise essential for completing this challenging project. Investment in polar science Elen Jones, Programme Director at the British Antarctic Survey, said: “As we gear up for this important construction season, we’re excited to see everyone’s hard work come together to complete the Discovery Building and bring it into operational use. This latest milestone is part of our programme of modernisation in Antarctica which will enable scientific operations and research on the continent for years to come.” Johannes Smit, Construction Manager at BAM, said: “We’ve made significant progress in the Antarctic to bring this building to completion. Our dedicated team even worked through the winter season to prepare for commissioning, and we’re now focused on connecting and fine-tuning all systems. This hub will drive safe, efficient, and sustainable operations as the heart of the wider facilities at Rothera.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sempra Homes has celebrated a significant milestone at its Broadmayne development in Basildon, reaching the topping-out stage for the first two affordable homes on the development. Helping to address the critical need for affordable homes in the area, this project will deliver 35 new family homes, including 17 social rent council homes that will be allocated to families on Basildon Council’s housing waiting list. In a ceremony to mark the occasion, Owen Sparks, Basildon Council’s Strategic Director of Resources and Governance, placed the final roof top ridge tile, underscoring the significance of this achievement. The Broadmayne development is part of a larger initiative by Sempra Homes, in partnership with award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group, that spans three prime sites in Basildon and Pitsea town centres. Together, these three developments will bring a combined total of 166 social rented and private sale homes, aiming to support the housing need of the borough. Melanie Keys, Services Manager at Sempra Homes, said: “These new homes will provide good quality, secure living spaces for local families and are a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and partnership working. Together, we are not only providing new homes but fostering community development and supporting local employment through these developments, with a key focus on delivering much-needed homes for Basildon residents.” The development will also enhance local infrastructure and public spaces, with Sempra Homes and Hill providing opportunities for local trades and apprentices to be actively involved in the construction of these homes. Robert Jack, Regional Director at Hill, comments: “The Broadmayne development goes beyond delivering 35 much-needed new homes; it plays a vital role in strengthening Basildon’s community infrastructure. Together with Sempra Homes, we’re committed to creating employment opportunities and skills initiatives that will ensure this development leaves a lasting, positive legacy for the wider community.” The completion of these homes is anticipated in 2025. For further information please visit www.semprahomes.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Greatfields School, in the heart of Barking, East London, has officially been completed as part of a transformational build programme. Net Zero Panels (NZP), a specialised division of Net Zero Buildings and part of the Premier Modular Group, worked with main contractor, Auburn Group, to deliver the third and final phase of the 21,500 sqm development. The redevelopment, which sits in the former Gascoigne Estate, introduced an ‘inside out’ design for the school, introducing larger classrooms with modern amenities. Teachers are now able to take advantage of flexible spaces according to their teaching needs. Originally opened in September 2016, the school is the centre of learning for 950 students, and part of a wider campus that caters to over 2,400. The school recently celebrated excellent GCSE results, with headteacher Richard Paul praising teachers and school leaders for their “unrelenting efforts and the countless extra hours of support.” NZP is dedicated to providing practical, low carbon panelised solutions to address performance challenges for buildings such as airtightness, structural and thermal issues. NZP was brought in during the final phase of development, to help ensure the school’s new, permanent location is holistically futureproofed. With fire safety a top priority for the school, NZP worked closely with all stakeholders to deliver non-combustible, fire tested panels with concrete flooring. Jack Randall, director of NZP said: “It’s amazing to see what has been achieved at Greatfields, a project we’re really proud to say we have worked on. From our perspective, it was important to look at each individual aspect of compliance, including structural performance and sustainability, as a whole. “Our holistic approach to helping customers helps maintain control over cost, carbon mitigation and emissions, compliance and combustibility, as well as futureproofing projects such as Greatfields School for years to come.” Mike O’Dell, Construction Director at Auburn Group, commented: “Working with NZP, we knew we’d have a partner that not only came with the exact experience we needed, but could also provide us with big picture support through their deep understanding of net zero as well as the compliance required for projects such as Greatfields.” The final phase of development was officially opened through a ribbon cutting event. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Aldi has announced plans to open 11 new stores across the UK in the lead-up to Christmas, enhancing its presence in communities nationwide. The first wave of openings includes stores in Sedgley in the West Midlands and Castle Douglas in Scotland, set to welcome shoppers this week. Later in November, Aldi will open additional stores in Horsham, West Sussex, and Muswell Hill, London. As the festive season approaches, further locations in Totton (Hampshire), Cribbs Causeway (Bristol), and Pwllheli (Gwynedd) will also debut. In addition to the new stores, Aldi is investing in refurbishments at 15 existing sites to improve the shopping experience for customers. These expansions are part of Aldi’s ambitious plan to reach 1,500 stores across the UK, supported by an £800 million investment into its UK operations this year alone. Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of Real Estate at Aldi UK, remarked, “We’re dedicated to making high-quality, affordable food accessible to everyone. Our new store openings reflect our ongoing investment in the UK, and we’re thrilled to bring Aldi’s unbeatable prices to more communities ahead of the festive season.” This news follows a similar announcement from rival Lidl, which has confirmed plans to open 10 new stores before Christmas, alongside the reopening of three upgraded locations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The final phase of plans to develop Newbury Farm, Cambridge, have been green-lit. The development will deliver 150 mixed-tenure houses and apartments, as well as community and commercial spaces to enhance both the project’s appeal and functionality, thanks to an equal partnership between Cambridge City Council and award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group. The partnership, labelled Cambridge Investment Partnership (CIP), received unanimous approval by Cambridge City Council. Tom Hill, Managing Director of The Hill Group said: “As a partnership, we are committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable new homes that meet Cambridge’s growing housing needs. “We are pleased to be bringing forward this mixed tenure development which will include vibrant community spaces and essential commercial facilities, fostering a sense of place and connectivity for residents.” The Newbury Farm project will offer a wide range of homes, from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom houses, with the larger properties and apartment blocks situated centrally within the site. Included are three apartment blocks with 35 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom and three three-bedroom flats. Additionally, it will offer 18 two-bedroom, 48 three-bedroom, 21 four-bedroom, and six five-bedroom houses. Of the 150 new homes, 60 will be designated as affordable housing, including all the apartments and three of the three-bedroom houses, which continues CIP’s commitment to addressing Cambridge’s housing needs. Cllr Gerri Bird, Executive Councillor for Housing at Cambridge City Council and CIP board member, said: “Being granted planning permission to develop this final phase at Newbury Farm is another great example of the progress we are making to address the city’s housing affordability crisis.” Extensive community consultation led by BPTW, the lead architects for all three phases, has informed the final design, ensuring that the development aligns with the needs of the council, residents and local businesses. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
TWO planning applications have been submitted as part of a renovation project at award-winning five-star resort hotel Rockliffe Hall, with the transformation aimed at cementing its reputation as the leading resort with international appeal in the North East. The first planning application seeks approval for a purpose-built pavilion that will house a flagship restaurant of award-winning quality. The second application focuses on restoring the hotel’s iconic Grade II listed Old Hall, preserving its historic charm while enhancing guest accommodations and experiences at the resort. The proposed 584-square-metre pavilion will offer a sophisticated, modern space with the external design drawing inspiration from colonnaded architecture and materials that complement the Old Hall. Inside, the venue will feature a bespoke dining area with an open kitchen, designed to enhance interaction between guests and chefs, offering an immersive experience that takes diners on a culinary journey inspired by the finest global cuisine. To complement the new pavilion, the Old Hall project will include the transformation of The Orangery and its kitchen to become the main resort restaurant and further elevate Rockliffe Hall’s culinary offerings overseen by the expertise of culinary director James Close, who was appointed in February 2024. Shauna Robb, general manager at Rockliffe Hall, said: “The proposed improvements underscore our commitment to positioning Rockliffe Hall as a leading luxury destination, placing the North East of England firmly on the international hospitality map while enhancing its value as a regional asset. “We are dedicated to preserving the estate’s rich heritage while investing in its future, ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional guest experiences and contribute to the local economy. Importantly, these developments will create opportunities for local residents to work in high-level food and beverage roles. Once completed, they will further secure Rockliffe Hall’s standing as a premier five-star resort hotel, attracting travellers from around the globe.” James Close, culinary director at Rockliffe Hall, said: “This project is focused on creating a world-class dining destination and is the perfect progression of everything we developed and achieved before joining Rockliffe Hall. Using our experience, our global travel influences, and the opportunity that the new build offers us, we are looking to create something really special for the North East that will be recognised and enjoyed locally and internationally.” Plans to revitalise the historic Old Hall feature thoughtful internal alterations that preserve its architectural integrity, while the external appearance will not be altered by the proposals. Key upgrades include enhancements to upper-floor guest rooms, and opening sections between the cocktail bar, drawing room, and terrace, ensuring a seamless flow for guests. Landscape improvements will also enhance the Old Hall’s north façade frontage. The architecture and design features a rhythmical colonnade on both the north and south facades, with the latter framing views of the River Tees. Materials such as the stone cladding, which complements the ashlar of the Old Hall, the lead appearance roof, which has similarities to the Old Hall Orangery, and design features like the pavilion’s stone mullion details that echo those of the Old Hall, will create a sensitive yet contemporary addition. The companies collaborating to usher Rockliffe Hall into a new era include; BSBA Architects, GT3 Interiors, Identity Consult and BRIMS Construction, Monarch Catering Equipment, DESCO Engineering – electrical and mechanical engineers, and BGP Consulting – structural engineers. Identity Consult are leading the program as project managers with IC Planning as the planning consultants, BSBA Architects as lead designer, and GT3 progressing the Interior Design development. After an in-depth exploration of key considerations including heritage context, and future sustainability, the chosen strategy introduces a contemporary building that complements the historic Old Hall, while ensuring its long-term preservation as a heritage asset. GT3 Interiors has drawn inspiration from the Old Hall’s heritage, its grounds, and the local environment for the newly enhanced guest rooms. The redesigned accommodations will reflect the rugged beauty of the landscape and its international export connections, incorporating design elements that pay homage to the region’s significant global engineering contributions, particularly iconic structures built with Teesside steel. Michael Simpson, director at GT3 Interiors, said: “This is set to be such an exciting scheme for the North East, creating a truly world-class hospitality offering for visitors – and the interior design needs to reflect just that. “Our designs are always rooted in people, making sure that their experience of any space is as enjoyable, comfortable, inspiring, and memorable as possible. For this project, we have been inspired by the region, blending references to its fantastic landscapes, built environments and pioneering manufacturing heritage with cues to the international destinations it has impacted. The result will be a series of immersive and engaging spaces that capture the identity and ambition of the North East in a luxury setting.” The Old Hall restoration is due to be completed in October 2025 and the new flagship restaurant build, in December 2025. The proposed renovations at Rockliffe Hall reflect a significant commitment to enhancing its status as a leading luxury destination. These proposals are now under review by the relevant planning authorities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A Swansea city centre scheme for a new hub has progressed significantly after planning permission was awarded approval. Plans from Urban Splash include the development of a public sector hub building, complete with commercial floor space for shops and restaurants, as well as office space for council and a range of other public sector partners, which would take over the former St David’s Shopping Centre site. Made up of four floors above ground level and one floor below, hundreds of workers will be based there. Urban Splash and Swansea Council will develop the proposed hub, with ownership retained by the council. David Warburton, Urban Splash development director, said: “We’re delighted to have secured planning approval, which clears the way for a vibrant new commercial hub in Swansea. “Our vision is to create a space that serves both the community and the local economy, offering high-quality amenities, dynamic workspaces, and a place where people can connect and collaborate. “This building is set to create new job opportunities and inject fresh energy into the city centre, supporting Swansea’s growth as a forward-thinking, thriving urban environment.” Construction work on the public sector hub is anticipated to start in 2025. The public sector hub would also enable the redevelopment of the Civic Centre site on the seafront. Cllr Rob Stewart, Swansea Council Leader, said: “The public sector hub will help generate more footfall in the city centre, which will boost our existing traders and help attract more investment in future. “This is just one feature of an overall plan for the redevelopment of the former St David’s Shopping Centre site though, so we’ll continue to work with Urban Splash on other proposals for the site that will be announced as soon as they’re ready for feedback. “Our plans for this development site are part of a £1bn regeneration programme that’s unfolding in Swansea to benefit our residents and businesses. This shows how committed we are to creating jobs and high-quality facilities as Swansea is transformed into one of the UK’s best cities to live, work, enjoy, study and visit. “Alongside our partners in the private sector and others, this work is bearing fruit. Swansea’s economy is projected to be the seventh fastest growing in the UK next year, which is testament to all that’s been achieved so far and our plans for the future.” Urban Splash are continuing to work on proposals for that site, which will be made available for public feedback as soon as they’re finalised. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Temporary works specialist Altrad RMD Kwikform (Altrad RMDK) has partnered with HS2’s construction partner for the Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) and leading civil engineering and groundworks contractor, Galldris, to support the realignment of the A452 road over the new HS2 rail line. Project Overview The A452 Kenilworth Road Overbridge is a fully integral box structure with in-situ concrete base, abutments and wingwalls, spanning over 76 metres. This project is part of the vast HS2 landscape realignment of the A452 road over the new high speed rail line. The structure was one of the highest concrete pours undertaken by Altrad RMDK in Europe to date with a pouring height of 13.5 metres to one of the main wingwalls. The project’s success was critical in maintaining the momentum of the HS2 timeline, highlighting the collaborative efforts of all involved. The Challenge The project presented a multitude of challenges due to the complex shape and weight of the bridge. One of the main challenges was overcoming the complex geometric patterns used for the wingwalls. These wingwalls tapered in height along their length and also along their width across the base. Not only this, but the external shutters lean into the internal face to taper in width across the height. Where the wingwalls met the abutment walls, there was a complex movement joint that was required to allow for the expansion of the respective elements whilst still retaining the backfill that would eventually encapsulate the structure. The project demanded meticulous planning, coordination, and execution, with the additional pressure of adhering to a tight schedule. The Solution Altrad RMDK and Galldris worked in partnership, bringing together expertise and resources from both organisations, which proved instrumental in overcoming the complex challenges posed by the project’s scope. The contractor needed a solution that could be configured into various shapes and sizes, and so a custom specification was engineered using Superslim Soldiers and Alform Aluminium Beams to meet the complex requirements. Superslim Soldiers are designed to handle high loads, making them an ideal solution for a pour of this stature, as they were able to ensure that the formwork was able to remain stable under the pressure of the concrete. The beams helped maintain the structure’s shape and integrity during the entire pouring process, which was crucial in preventing deformities and ensuring the accurate formation. The Alform Beams provided a quick, durable and lightweight solution, allowing for simple installation, which was particularly advantageous on this high pour as moving and positioning formwork can be time and labour intensive. Despite being lightweight, Alform Beams withstood the substantial pressure from the concrete, working alongside Superslim Soliders to ensure that formwork remained intact and stable throughout the pour. This was important as it was essential that the solutions maintained the tapering shapes and dimensions of the wingwalls throughout the pouring process. Stuart Grant, Senior Sales Representative at Altrad RMD Kwikform, said: “The A452 Kenilworth Overbridge project highlights Altrad RMD Kwikform’s engineering capabilities and innovative solutions. Through partnerships, careful planning, and the use of advanced equipment, the project demonstrated the effective collaboration needed for this infrastructure development.” For more on Altrad RMD Kwikform, please visit www.rmdkwikform.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
DiPerk Power Solutions, the sole authorised distributor of Perkins engines in the UK and Ireland, has supplied Stage V-compliant Perkins 1204J engines to Regency Power Generators for use in the HS2 high-speed rail project. The compliance to high emission standards means the 1204J qualifies to work in the clean air requirements of London and other regulated development centres and as a result, two of these engines have already been delivered to a site on the outskirts of London, ready for commissioning. The Perkins engines will be integrated into generator sets (gensets) by Regency Power Generators and supplied to Skanska Costain, a contractor for the HS2 project. These gensets will be strategically placed at the ends of tunnels along the London to Birmingham route, serving as critical emergency power units. They will ensure continuous power supply for essential systems such as tunnel lighting in the event of any blackouts. Wayne Vincent, Head of Distribution Sales at DiPerk Power Solutions, said: “The HS2 project demands the highest standards of reliability and environmental performance, which is why we specified and delivered the Perkins 1204J engines to Regency Power Generators. These engines are known for their reliability and meet environmental requirements with their Stage V compliance, which is crucial for operation in London’s stringent emissions control areas. The engines also offer enhanced electronic control for precise emissions management, making them ideal for this critical infrastructure project.” The UK-manufactured gensets are designed to be mobile, enabling easy lifting and relocation as needed during different phases of the HS2 project. This flexibility is crucial as the project involves building extensive viaducts from Birmingham to London, with the gensets needing to be positioned at various points along this route. The engines’ emissions control also positions these units as a versatile solution for the project’s evolving power needs. Steven Bussey, Business Development Manager at Regency Power Generators, commented: “In addition to integrating the Perkins 1204J engines, we’ve enhanced the gensets with bespoke features to meet Skanska Costain’s specific requirements. This includes fitting special quick-fit connectors and designing a custom frame with a reinforced canopy. These modifications provide ease of use and added protection.” He added: “We chose to work with DiPerk because of their expertise with Perkins engines and their ability to supply the Stage V compliant models we needed. Their support throughout the application and installation process has been invaluable in helping us meet the exacting standards of this high-profile project.” For more information about DiPerk visit www.diperk.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
