A multi-million pound project to create state-of-the-art facilities to support mental health patients in Norfolk and Suffolk has achieved sectional completion for three new wards and gym facility. Service users, carers and staff have all been involved with the development of the new building to improve facilities for inpatient care
South Quay Regeneration: Breathing New Life into Pembroke’s Historic Heart Pembrokeshire County Council has embarked on an ambitious regeneration programme, awarding Andrew Scott Ltd the transformative redevelopment of the historic South Quay site adjacent to Pembroke Castle. The project, progressing in two distinct phases, promises to revitalise the area with
Shake Shack, the renowned New York-based burger brand, has officially opened its first Midlands restaurant at Hammerson’s Bullring & Grand Central in Birmingham. The new 2,866 sq ft eatery, located in Grand Central, offers Shake Shack’s signature menu, including favourites such as breakfast burgers, the famous ShackBurger, crinkle-cut fries, hot
Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group has taken a significant step into the thriving Build-to-Rent (BtR) market by securing its first forward funding deal with Lloyds Living. This landmark partnership marks a major milestone for Hill Group as it ventures further into this expanding sector. The inaugural project involves the creation
Following the publication of the revised NPPF earlier today, Ian Barnett, National Land Director, Leaders Romans Group has provided a comment on: Ian Barnett, National Land Director, Leaders Romans Group (LRG) What a difference a year makes. The NPPF changes announced today provide and new framework for the industry to
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is becoming a cornerstone in the building design and construction industry. As sustainability takes precedence, developers are increasingly focusing on how even small-scale projects can significantly contribute to biodiversity. Understanding and leveraging small site metrics is vital for achieving effective BNG compliance. The concept of Biodiversity
Biophilic design has become the signature of modern architecture, blending the natural world with our built environments. With this, architects create residential and commercial places incorporating natural elements that nurture well-being, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. This approach is way more than just a passing trend but is
A multi-million pound project to create state-of-the-art facilities to support mental health patients in Norfolk and Suffolk has achieved sectional completion for three new wards and gym facility. Service users, carers and staff have all been involved with the development of the new building to improve facilities for inpatient care at Hellesdon Hospital. The investment is the single largest capital investment ever to improve facilities at the Trust which will modernise inpatient mental health care and benefit service users, their families and carers, and staff. Construction of the new Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) mental health facility near Norwich is expected to welcome service users and staff at the end of January 2025. The new Rivers Centre wards will allow the Trust to provide modern, purpose-built environments and therapeutic space as well as additional capacity, providing an extra 15 beds for the Trust. This will help to reduce the use of out of area and independent sector placements for people living locally who need inpatient mental health care, treatment, and support. VINCI Building’s Regional Director, Paul Tumelty said: “At IHP our purpose is to contribute our skills and expertise to benefit and improve the lives of people that live and work in our communities. We are delighted that Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust gave us the opportunity to fulfil our purpose at the Rivers Centre and bring their vision to life for a state of the art facility to support mental health patients.” Katie Fenn, Senior Project Manager at VINCI Building said: “This project is an example of what can be achieved with the right planning, design, dedication and collaboration to create a centre that will impact positively on communities, businesses, and local people. “I am extremely proud of the team and our supply chain partners who have worked tirelessly on the new Rivers Centre, and I look forward to the buildings becoming a reality.” This investment will play a significant role in enhancing care for local people, recognising wherever possible people needing inpatient care should receive care in a facility as close to home as possible. The project consists of three new ward buildings, a purpose-built gym and a hub, which has been carefully designed to promote a feeling of community. This central area will house a main reception and café and will be the ‘heart’ of the development. The project has focused on ensuring a sustainable future, with electricity supplied from solar panels and heating via air source heat pumps. The new facility makes full use of the natural environment with the aim of providing a haven where both patients and staff can relax away from clinical areas. It is hoped that this will have a positive impact on everyone’s wellbeing, while also playing an important role in service users’ recovery. The project has been delivered by Integrated Health Projects (IHP), the joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
South Quay Regeneration: Breathing New Life into Pembroke’s Historic Heart Pembrokeshire County Council has embarked on an ambitious regeneration programme, awarding Andrew Scott Ltd the transformative redevelopment of the historic South Quay site adjacent to Pembroke Castle. The project, progressing in two distinct phases, promises to revitalise the area with a sustainable mix of uses, enhancing the town’s appeal and functionality. Phase One: Honouring Pembroke’s Tudor Legacy The initial phase of this £18m initiative, supported by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme and the Transformation Capital Grants Scheme, celebrates Pembroke’s rich history as the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty. This phase will introduce a Henry Tudor visitor centre, a modern library and information hub, a café, and beautifully landscaped gardens, creating a vibrant cultural and community space. Phase Two: The Pembroke Hwb The second phase, known as ‘The Pembroke Hwb’, is funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up programme and the Welsh Government’s Integrated Rebalancing Capital Fund. This phase centres around the regeneration of numbers 7 and 8 Northgate Street and will deliver an integrated three-storey community hub. Facilities will include spaces for day opportunities, learning, and skills development aimed at fostering independent living across all age groups. Additionally, it will offer supported employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity at its core. Enhancing the Environment and Accessibility The project will restore South Quay’s historic buildings while introducing a new sunken garden and upgraded parking facilities. Improved pathways will enhance connectivity between the Henry Tudor visitor centre and the waterfront, further enriching the site’s accessibility and aesthetic appeal. Leadership and Vision Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Council and Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, and Climate Change, remarked: “Pembrokeshire’s leadership and financial investment of over £10 million into the South Quay development will provide a civic and social asset with lasting benefit to Pembroke and the county as a whole.” Preserving Heritage for Future Generations Mark Bowen, Managing Director of Andrew Scott Ltd, shared his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to have been awarded this project by Pembrokeshire County Council. We will collaborate with the Council to help conserve Wales’s heritage by breathing new life into the historic South Quay site, sensitively refurbishing and repurposing it for the 21st century.” The South Quay regeneration is set to become a cornerstone of Pembroke’s future, preserving its history while fostering growth and inclusivity for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Shake Shack, the renowned New York-based burger brand, has officially opened its first Midlands restaurant at Hammerson’s Bullring & Grand Central in Birmingham. The new 2,866 sq ft eatery, located in Grand Central, offers Shake Shack’s signature menu, including favourites such as breakfast burgers, the famous ShackBurger, crinkle-cut fries, hot dogs, ShackMeister ale, and their indulgent milkshakes. This launch marks another milestone for Bullring & Grand Central, which has become a hotspot for international food, beverage, and leisure brands. Shake Shack joins an impressive line-up that includes Lane 7, Sandbox, Toca Social, Slim Chickens, Mrs Chew’s Chinese Kitchen, Mowgli, and Five Guys. An Expanding Dining Destination Katy Letch, Head of Leasing at Hammerson, expressed her excitement about the new addition: “Shake Shack is the latest international brand to make its debut at Bullring & Grand Central, further enhancing the diverse food and beverage options available. Combined with our existing line-up of top names in the hospitality sector and our extensive leisure offering, Bullring & Grand Central is firmly established as Birmingham’s premier destination for dining and socialising.” A Key Milestone for Shake Shack Colin O’Kane, Managing Director at Diverse Dining, the UK operator of Shake Shack, highlighted the significance of the Birmingham opening: “With locations across London and the South East, expanding the Shake Shack portfolio to new regions in the UK is a key part of our strategic growth plan. This debut Midlands site at Bullring & Grand Central is an important milestone. As the country’s second-largest city, Birmingham has been on our radar for some time, and Grand Central’s prime location above the bustling Birmingham New Street Station makes it the perfect choice for our regional expansion.” With its debut in Birmingham, Shake Shack continues its mission of bringing its unique dining experience to new audiences, further solidifying Bullring & Grand Central’s reputation as the go-to hub for culinary and leisure excellence. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group has taken a significant step into the thriving Build-to-Rent (BtR) market by securing its first forward funding deal with Lloyds Living. This landmark partnership marks a major milestone for Hill Group as it ventures further into this expanding sector. The inaugural project involves the creation of 264 rental apartments in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. It represents a key phase of a larger masterplan, led by Hill, to deliver 576 apartments in Stevenage town centre. Designed to meet modern living demands, the one and two-bedroom apartments will be spread across three state-of-the-art buildings and offer residents exclusive amenities such as an on-site concierge, gym, co-working spaces, and parking facilities. Lloyds Living, the rental and shared ownership housing division of Lloyds Banking Group, is providing forward funding for the project and will oversee the management and leasing of the properties upon their scheduled completion in 2026. Expanding Hill Group’s BtR Footprint Building on its reputation as a trusted partner in the housebuilding industry, Hill is actively exploring BtR opportunities in collaboration with investors and partners. These initiatives include forward funding, forward commit, and joint ventures. The Stevenage development complements Hill’s growing pipeline of large-scale BtR projects, including flagship schemes in Coventry and Wembley. Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, shared his enthusiasm for the venture: “We are thrilled to announce our first Build-to-Rent deal, underscoring our commitment to this dynamic market. By combining our expertise in creating vibrant living spaces with Lloyds Living’s proven track record as a funder and operator, we are confident this Stevenage development will set a benchmark for quality rental homes. With its prime location and excellent amenities, this project is perfectly tailored to meet the needs of the growing number of professionals seeking rental properties in the area.” Meeting Housing Demand with Lloyds Living Andy Hutchinson, CEO of Lloyds Living, highlighted the significance of the Build-to-Rent sector: “BtR plays a crucial role in addressing the UK’s housing needs. Partnering with Hill on projects like this enables us to deliver high-quality homes for rent in areas where they are most needed, alongside the facilities that modern renters prioritise.” Looking Ahead The Stevenage project exemplifies the potential of Build-to-Rent to transform urban living by providing professionally managed rental properties in vibrant, well-connected locations. With both Hill Group and Lloyds Living focused on quality and community, this partnership is poised to deliver homes that meet the evolving expectations of today’s renters while contributing to the regeneration of Stevenage town centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following the publication of the revised NPPF earlier today, Ian Barnett, National Land Director, Leaders Romans Group has provided a comment on: Ian Barnett, National Land Director, Leaders Romans Group (LRG) What a difference a year makes. The NPPF changes announced today provide and new framework for the industry to work to and a flurry of activity on LinkedIn as everyone seeks to understand the key points and how they will affect their projects. The key points are: There have been many grand announcements in my time in planning and development. The priority has always been to build enough houses for the country’s population in the right places in a manner that protects the most valuable landscapes and environmentally sensitive areas. So are the latest announcements in any different to what we’ve all heard before? On paper – yes absolutely. The conviction and tone as well as the content (and indeed the fact it’s announced ahead of when most people expected!) does suggest that this time at least the Government is serious. The new NPPF gives an opportunity for the whole narrative on development and housing delivery to change. Whilst some would like to have seen more in terms of strategic planning, today’s NPPF at least gives a new window of opportunity for many sites that are suitable for development and which have been held up by inefficiencies and lack of resources, meddling local politics and NIMBYism to come forward. Delivering 1.5m houses in the first term is ambitious and unrealistic but it was utterly impossible under the previous planning system. The time for delivery is here and it’s the responsibility of everyone in the industry – developers, landowners, planners and local authorities to do what is needed. The framework is there – but it will take time to bed in and what we need now more than anything after a new NPPF update for the last two Christmases is stability so we can get on with the task ahead. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is becoming a cornerstone in the building design and construction industry. As sustainability takes precedence, developers are increasingly focusing on how even small-scale projects can significantly contribute to biodiversity. Understanding and leveraging small site metrics is vital for achieving effective BNG compliance. The concept of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) has emerged as an essential framework in promoting sustainable development within the construction sector. This approach ensures that new developments leave biodiversity in a better state than before. As the focus on environmental sustainability heightens, industry professionals must navigate the complexities of BNG compliance, particularly when dealing with small site metrics. These metrics present unique challenges and opportunities, requiring a keen understanding of their role in enhancing biodiversity on smaller scales. The integration of a BNG calculator in project planning facilitates accurate assessment and implementation of these metrics, ensuring compliance and ecological enhancement. Comprehending small site metrics Small site metrics play a pivotal role in the context of BNG, serving as benchmarks to gauge the ecological value of a project. They ensure that even minor developments contribute positively to local ecosystems. By measuring elements such as habitat quality and connectivity, these metrics help project planners make informed decisions that align with BNG goals. The integration of a BNG calculator in project planning facilitates accurate assessment and implementation of these metrics, ensuring compliance and ecological enhancement. These metrics are crucial because they hold all projects accountable, regardless of size, to maintain or improve the ecological balance. In this way, developers can contribute to broader biodiversity objectives by recognising the cumulative impact of small-scale developments. Maintaining stringent small-site metrics can lead to significant long-term benefits for local wildlife and plant life. When implementing small site metrics, it’s essential to consider both quantitative and qualitative aspects of biodiversity assessment. This includes evaluating factors such as species richness, habitat distinctiveness and ecological connectivity. Understanding these components helps developers create more targeted and effective biodiversity enhancement strategies. The metric system typically assigns numerical values to different habitat types, considering their condition and strategic significance within the local ecological network. The role of BNG calculators BNG calculators are indispensable tools for developers aiming to achieve BNG compliance effectively. These digital solutions provide detailed assessments and projections that guide planners through the intricate process of metric evaluation and improvement plans. With these calculators, you can create comprehensive biodiversity metric sheets that map out necessary steps for enhancing local habitats while meeting legal requirements. The ease of using digital tools like BNG calculators cannot be overstated. They simplify complex calculations and offer real-time data analysis, enabling efficient resource allocation and strategic planning. These tools have revolutionised project management by providing clear pathways to achieving net gain outcomes. Challenges in implementing small site metrics Despite their importance, implementing small site metrics poses several challenges. Limited space and resources often constrain how much can be done within a given project area. Additionally, there may be gaps in knowledge or expertise among project teams regarding best practices for incorporating these metrics into design plans. One strategy to overcome these challenges involves leveraging digital tools alongside expert guidance. Engaging with ecologists or environmental consultants can provide valuable insights into optimising space usage for biodiversity benefits. Moreover, integrating innovative technologies into your workflow can streamline processes and enhance accuracy in metric calculations. Examples of small site metrics in use Several compelling examples showcase the effective application of small site metrics to achieve Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) in construction projects. For instance, residential development in a compact urban area can utilise these metrics to integrate living walls, bird boxes and pollinator-friendly plants, resulting in measurable increases in local biodiversity. Similarly, a small-scale commercial site in a suburban setting can apply small site metrics to enhance on-site green infrastructure, including the creation of a native wildflower meadow and rain gardens to support wildlife and improve water management. Another example is the redevelopment of a brownfield site where metrics guide the installation of green roofs and restoration of nearby hedgerows, creating ecological corridors that benefit both flora and fauna. These examples demonstrate that even on constrained plots, small site metrics can enable tailored, impactful actions that contribute to broader biodiversity goals while meeting regulatory requirements and enhancing community value.
Biophilic design has become the signature of modern architecture, blending the natural world with our built environments. With this, architects create residential and commercial places incorporating natural elements that nurture well-being, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. This approach is way more than just a passing trend but is actually a response to the bond between man and nature. Greenery, natural light, and organic materials all come together in harmony to make spaces into sanctuaries. It is not all about great looks, though—biophilic design is serious about function, sustainability, and a thoughtful approach to integration. Whether one is building afresh or upgrading, the list of how to bring nature indoors is endless. That said, let’s dig in and see how this trend in nature-inspired design is changing the way we build. Even the busiest of urban settings can feel connected to nature’s tranquillity with the right elements. It is a design philosophy that contributes to the health not only of the planet but also the people inhabiting these spaces. Why Biophilic Design Matters Humans have an inborn desire to connect with nature—a concept called biophilia. The bond between man and nature is innate; it gets lost in urban and industrial setups, which leaves most people yearning for greenery and fresh air. Biophilic design closes that gap by bringing the soothing, healing properties of nature into spaces where people live, work, and play. Studies show that environments infused with natural elements can improve mental health, boost productivity, and even aid in physical recovery. It is not only about aesthetics for architects or designers; rather, it’s a question of building spaces that nurture well-being. Whether it is your house, office, or public space, biophilic design creates an environment of equilibrium and serenity. This is the kind of design that not only looks good but feels good to experience. Thoughtfully applied, it can transform even sterile environments into places that inspire comfort and connection. By incorporating greenery into spaces, biophilic design also enhances cognitive performance, making it particularly beneficial in workspaces and learning environments. Biophilic design brings natural materials, flora, and light together to create spaces that mimic the outdoors. Picture a room washed in natural light, featuring earthy textures and abundant greenery. It’s a place where stress evaporates, and focus thrives. Biophilic elements remind us of nature’s beauty while improving air quality and energy efficiency. Whether you’re installing a living wall, optimizing window placements, or integrating nature-inspired finishes, each decision elevates the space. Bringing these natural elements indoors helps blur the boundary between interior and exterior, creating a refreshing and intentional flow. The inclusion of biophilic elements in healthcare settings has even been shown to accelerate patient recovery times, underscoring the profound impact of nature on human health. Natural Light The Heart of Biophilic Design Light generally plays a major role in how we experience a space. Natural light, in particular, does wonders for mood, energy, and overall health. Making the most of natural light arguably is one of the easiest and most available methods of bringing biophilic design into your home. This cuts down on artificial lighting, thus helping reduce energy consumption and support sustainability. Large windows, skylights, and open areas allow a plethora of sunlight into interiors. This not only beautifies a space but makes one more connected to the natural world. These dynamic shifts of natural light throughout the day create an ever-changing environment, thus making spaces alive and interactive. Optimizing Windows and Skylights Windows and skylights, thoughtfully placed, are hallmarks of biophilic architecture. They invite sunlight to penetrate deep into spaces, reducing dependence on artificial lighting while creating uplifting atmospheres. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood interiors with brightness and provide uninterrupted views of outdoor greenery. Skylights, on the other hand, allow diffused light to filter in softly, shifting throughout the day. When designed with care, these features allow nature to permeate even enclosed areas. Beyond their functional benefits, they emphasize the beauty of natural textures and materials. Light and Shadows Natural light interacts dynamically with interiors, creating patterns and shadows that evoke feelings of calm and peace. For example, the dappled light that filters through leaves can be mimicked using screens, shutters, or textured materials. These subtle touches bring life to a space, replicating the outdoor experience indoors. The interplay of light and shadow is both visually stimulating and emotionally calming. By carefully considering how light flows throughout a room, architects can establish spaces that feel warm, inviting, and alive. Natural light has a number of well-being benefits, including regularization of circadian rhythms, quality of sleep, concentration, and general health. It elevates mood, diminishes fatigue, and raises productivity at work. Besides energy savings, daylight is very important in maintaining human well-being. A house filled with natural light gives the impression of being more spacious and alive, creating a sense of energy and connectedness to the outside environment. Biophilic design provides a perfect balance of brightness with energy efficiency, considering the incorporation of elements such as windows, reflective surfaces, and well-thought-out design strategies to create everyday living more comfortable and vital. Living Walls and Indoor Gardens Plants are the essence of biophilic design. They purify air, soften rigid edges, and create a calming presence that few other elements can replicate. From vertical living walls to compact planters, greenery can redefine any space. Living Walls A living wall, or green wall, is a vertical garden that turns blank surfaces into thriving, vibrant focal points. These installations are not only visually stunning but also functional, offering insulation, soundproofing, and improved air quality. They excel in open-concept layouts, where they can double as natural partitions. Living walls are highly adaptable, accommodating diverse plant species suited to specific lighting and environmental conditions. Whether they serve as statement pieces in a living room or subtle additions to hallways, green walls bring vitality and character. Features like moss walls or plant-filled partitions can also improve acoustics, making spaces feel quieter and more serene. Indoor Gardens When living walls are not feasible, indoor gardens offer versatile
