December 17, 2024
Blackpool Central development looking for new investors

Blackpool Central development looking for new investors

Blackpool Council has announced plans to appoint new commercial marketing agents to promote the Blackpool Central site to international leisure investors, aiming to attract fresh investment for the high-profile location. The move signals the termination of the previous agreement with developer Nikal Ltd. and marks a new phase in the

Read More »
Aspire breaks ground at landmark development for former mining village

Aspire breaks ground at landmark development for former mining village

Building work is officially underway on the second phase of Aspire Housing’s £20 million regeneration project in Chesterton, Newcastle-under-Lyme. Silkworks at Cross Street will provide a collection of 43 new homes, including one-bed apartments and two-bed and three-bed affordable homes to rent. Dan Gray, Executive Director of Place at Aspire

Read More »
Limestone in the Landscape: Creating a Timeless and Elegant Outdoor Space

Limestone in the Landscape: Creating a Timeless and Elegant Outdoor Space

Limestone, a sedimentary rock formed over millennia from the accumulation of marine organisms, has been a favored material in architecture and landscaping for centuries.  Its enduring beauty, versatility, and ability to evoke a sense of timeless elegance make it a perfect choice for creating captivating outdoor spaces. This article explores

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 324 : Jan 2025

December 17, 2024

Starlight Investments Expands Further in the UK with New Build-to-Rent Development in Leeds

Starlight Investments Expands Further in the UK with New Build-to-Rent Development in Leeds

Starlight Investments, a global leader in real estate investment and asset management, has taken another significant step in its UK growth strategy with the acquisition of a 300-suite build-to-rent (BTR) community currently under development in Leeds. The property, acquired from Leeds-based developer Torsion Group, occupies a prime location on the eastern edge of Leeds city centre. Residents will enjoy easy access to popular spots like Kirkgate and other vibrant leisure destinations, all within walking distance, as well as excellent public transport links. The two-tower development, now under construction, will feature modern 10- and 17-storey buildings offering a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with 63 underground parking spaces. Upon completion, the community will be packed with premium amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, a cinema, and two rooftop terraces. The design prioritises sustainability, reflecting Starlight’s commitment to eco-conscious living. Leeds, the UK’s third-largest city, is a thriving financial and employment hub known for its blend of historic charm and modern appeal. With a vibrant arts scene, leading universities, and a dynamic business environment, Leeds attracts a diverse population of students and professionals alike. This acquisition marks Starlight’s second in Leeds this year, reinforcing the company’s European residential asset management strategy. The addition of this project brings Starlight UK’s portfolio to over 3,600 managed suites, demonstrating its growing influence in the market. “We are excited to further strengthen Starlight’s footprint in Leeds, one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities,” said Jonnie Milich, Head of UK Residential at Starlight Investments. “This exceptional build-to-rent community highlights our dedication to providing high-quality rental housing across the UK. In 2024 alone, we’ve added over 2,400 suites to our UK portfolio, and we’re eager to continue expanding in the year ahead.” With its ongoing commitment to delivering top-tier residential properties, Starlight Investments continues to play a key role in shaping the future of UK housing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
HS2 motorway works completed to prepare for new M42 ‘twin box’ build

HS2 motorway works completed to prepare for new M42 ‘twin box’ build

HS2 has completed the first stage of work for the construction of a bridge that will take the high-speed railway line over the M42 motorway. During two weekend closures, the team of engineers worked around the clock to prepare the area for construction by removing pre-existing concrete foundations, installing underground ducting and creating a safe working area in the central reservation of the motorway.  Once built, the M42 motorway box structure will measure 300 metres in length and will enable the high-speed line to cross over a 130-metre stretch of the M42 between junctions 6 and 7/7a near Birmingham Business Park and the NEC. The structure will be built using a modular construction method which reduces the need for lengthy motorway closures, minimising disruption to road users. It involves the assembly of giant building blocks that are manufactured away from site and transported to land next to the motorway. 1,500 hollow blocks, each weighing 14 tonnes on average, will be placed on top of each other, like bricks, before being filled with concrete to form the walls of the structure. 295 beams will bridge the gaps between these walls, followed by the installation of a bridge deck and parapets – with the structure due for completion in early 2027. Work can now begin on the build process following two temporary weekend closures and one weekday night-time closure of the M42 to allow for essential preparation work. Working in collaboration with National Highways, HS2 will build the structure in position while keeping three lanes of carriageway open on the M42, with a 50mph speed limit in place. Doug Barnett, Senior Project Manager for HS2 Ltd, said:  “I would like to thank motorists for their patience and our colleagues at National Highways for their support during these recent temporary closures of the M42. I also commend our site team who worked through the night to complete this essential work, enabling the motorway to reopen five hours earlier than planned. “Following this first phase of work, we can now start to build the structure in place from the ground up. We’ve prioritised a modular, self-supporting construction method as this avoids the need for any long-term motorway closures and reduces the overall construction time frame – keeping disruption to a minimum.” HS2 and its main works civil contractor for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), will continue to work in partnership with National Highways as the build gets underway. At peak construction, a dedicated workforce of 150 will support the complex operation. Oliver Shore, Project Director at Balfour Beatty VINCI, said: “Now we’ve completed essential preparation works along a section of the M42, we’re ready to begin building this twin box structure which will carry HS2 trains over the motorway. Using a modular construction method, this impressive structure will be built in position, to minimise disruption on road users.” David Patmore, Network Planner for National Highways, said: “It is crucial for us that we keep traffic moving and we do all we can to ensure people’s journeys on our roads are as smooth as possible. When we need to carry out important and significant works such as these, we work closely with partners like HS2 to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum. “We will continue to work closely with our partners to reduce the impact of the works on our roads and would like to thank road users and local communities for their patience.” As construction continues at pace between the West Midlands and London, HS2 now supports more than 31,000 jobs. When complete, HS2 services will run between London and the West Midlands on a dedicated high-speed line before reaching destinations further north via the existing West Coast Main Line. Britain’s new high-speed railway will provide significantly more efficient and faster journeys, while crucially freeing up space on the most congested part of the West Coast Main Line, allowing more local and freight trains to operate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Blackpool Central development looking for new investors

Blackpool Central development looking for new investors

Blackpool Council has announced plans to appoint new commercial marketing agents to promote the Blackpool Central site to international leisure investors, aiming to attract fresh investment for the high-profile location. The move signals the termination of the previous agreement with developer Nikal Ltd. and marks a new phase in the site’s redevelopment, which is already underway. Earlier this year, the first stage of the Blackpool Central project was completed with the opening of a 1,306-space multi-storey car park, funded through private sector investment under the former agreement. Demolition work at the site is scheduled to begin early in the new year, following the appointment of contractor DSM Demolition. The project will see the removal of the old police station, municipal courts, and a former joke shop on Central Drive. The demolition costs will be covered by funding from the Blackpool Town Deal, part of a UK Government initiative announced in 2022. Located near the iconic Blackpool Tower and adjacent to the Promenade, the Blackpool Central site spans up to 15 acres and boasts prime accessibility, including a direct route from the motorway to the new car park. Once the site of the world’s busiest train station, it now presents a significant opportunity to add to Blackpool’s £1.7 billion visitor economy and generate new jobs for the local community. The Council has retained ownership of most of the Blackpool Central land, ensuring it remains available for future development while safeguarding public finances. The agreement with Nikal generated £4.5 million for the Council, supporting local services and providing an option to acquire the new car park for a nominal fee in the future. In the coming months, Blackpool Council will begin working with international marketing agents to attract private sector investors and developers. The goal is to secure a new leisure attraction that will complement the town’s existing offerings and further boost Blackpool’s status as a premier destination. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Aspire breaks ground at landmark development for former mining village

Aspire breaks ground at landmark development for former mining village

Building work is officially underway on the second phase of Aspire Housing’s £20 million regeneration project in Chesterton, Newcastle-under-Lyme. Silkworks at Cross Street will provide a collection of 43 new homes, including one-bed apartments and two-bed and three-bed affordable homes to rent. Dan Gray, Executive Director of Place at Aspire Housing, said: “It’s fantastic to see work starting on the aspirational new Silkworks development at Cross Street. “This second phase of the Chesterton and Crackley regeneration programme builds upon the exciting journey we started in 2018, when we first met with residents and put forward plans to transform the housing offer in the area. “We were delighted to introduce 9 new homes in 2022 upon completion of the first phase, and now we’re looking forward to seeing the Chesterton community continue to grow and thrive as we prepare to build 43 new affordable homes to benefit local residents for generations to come.” Keon Homes has been appointed to construct the Silkworks scheme, with work already taking place to clear the site and prepare for the new homes. Matt Beckley, Partnerships Director at Keon Homes, commented: “It’s great news to get underway on phase two of Cross Street in Chesterton, building on the successful delivery of a previous nine bungalow scheme we completed for Aspire Housing. “The latest development will involve the construction of 43 homes, consisting of a mix of high quality one-bed apartments, along with two and three-bed properties. Importantly, it also continues momentum on a larger scale regeneration project in an area that badly needs affordable housing.” This project has been part-funded by Homes England and Newcastle Town Deal as part of a joint partnership journey to transform the area. The development is due to be completed in early 2026, creating sustainable homes for local people. The third phase of this project is currently in development, with planning applications approved. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Propertymark response to new guidance for selective licensing in the private rented sector

Propertymark response to new guidance for selective licensing in the private rented sector

Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, said: “The private rented sector needs less selective licensing not more with the additional costs and duplication of rules that it brings. To this end, there are enough laws covering high standards for rented property, but it’s the lack of capacity of local authorities to actively inspect property and enforce these rules that is the main issue. Licensing means councils spend all their time administering schemes, rather than enforcing against rogue, criminal landlords. “The Renters’ Rights Bill offers an opportunity to phase out licensing schemes, provide councils with the resources they need and endorse professional letting agent and landlords alongside the introduction of the Decent Homes Standard and Private Rented Sector Database. However, it would seem that the UK Government is failing to recognise the benefits of doing this and not providing local authorities with the much-needed investment they need to enforce the wide range of legislation that already exists.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Limestone in the Landscape: Creating a Timeless and Elegant Outdoor Space

Limestone in the Landscape: Creating a Timeless and Elegant Outdoor Space

Limestone, a sedimentary rock formed over millennia from the accumulation of marine organisms, has been a favored material in architecture and landscaping for centuries.  Its enduring beauty, versatility, and ability to evoke a sense of timeless elegance make it a perfect choice for creating captivating outdoor spaces. This article explores the allure of limestone in the landscape, guiding you through its various applications, the selection process, and the crucial role of a skilled Nashville limestone fabricator in bringing your design vision to life. The Allure of Limestone Limestone possesses a unique combination of qualities that make it a sought-after material for landscaping projects. Its inherent beauty stems from its natural variations in color, texture, and veining. From creamy whites and warm beiges to subtle grays and earthy browns, limestone offers a palette of hues that complement any landscape design. Its versatility extends beyond color, with a range of finishes, from smooth and honed to textured and rustic, allowing it to seamlessly integrate into both traditional and contemporary settings. Limestone is renowned for its durability and ability to withstand the elements. Resistant to weathering, freeze-thaw cycles, and fading, it can endure harsh climates and heavy foot traffic, making it an ideal choice for patios, walkways, and pool surrounds. A well-maintained limestone landscape can last for generations, adding enduring value and character to your property. Limestone has a unique ability to evoke a sense of history, timelessness, and connection to the natural world. Its organic textures and subtle variations in color create a sense of warmth and authenticity, transforming outdoor spaces into inviting retreats that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. Applications of Limestone in the Landscape Limestone’s versatility lends itself to a wide range of applications in landscaping, allowing you to create stunning and functional outdoor spaces: Patios and Walkways. Limestone slabs near me are a popular choice for patios and walkways, providing a durable and elegant surface for outdoor living and entertaining. The slabs can be laid in various patterns, from classic running bond to intricate herringbone, to create visual interest and define different areas within the landscape. Pool Coping and Surrounds. Limestone’s slip-resistant properties and ability to stay cool in the sun make it an excellent choice for pool coping and surrounds. Retaining Walls and Steps. Limestone’s strength and durability make it suitable for constructing retaining walls and steps, adding structural integrity and visual appeal to sloped landscapes. Its natural textures and colors blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment, creating a sense of natural flow and integration. Water Features and Garden Accents. Limestone can be used to create stunning water features, such as fountains, waterfalls, and ponds, adding a soothing and dynamic element to the landscape. Its natural beauty enhances the reflective qualities of water, creating a tranquil and captivating focal point. Sourcing Limestone for Your Landscape Finding the perfect limestone for your landscaping project involves exploring various options and considering factors like quality, price, and availability. A landscape stone supplier near me is a great resource for sourcing limestone. These suppliers offer a wide variety of limestone products, including slabs, pavers, and boulders for sale. You can see the stones firsthand, compare different types, and get expert advice on selecting the best materials for your project. For custom limestone features, such as countertops, fireplace surrounds, or carved elements, you’ll need the expertise of a limestone fabricator. These skilled artisans can cut, shape, and finish limestone to your specifications, creating bespoke pieces that add a unique touch to your landscape. Designing with Limestone Creating a cohesive and captivating landscape with limestone involves thoughtful planning and consideration of various design elements. Choose limestone that complements the style and color palette of your home’s architecture. For traditional homes, consider classic limestone varieties with warm hues and subtle veining. For modern homes, opt for sleek and contemporary limestone with clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. You can also use limestone to create a sense of flow and balance within your landscape. Guide visitors through the space with limestone pathways, define different areas with limestone patios or retaining walls, and create focal points with limestone water features or sculptures. Integrate limestone seamlessly with the natural elements of your landscape. Plant native trees and shrubs around limestone features, incorporate boulders for sale into your design, and use soft lighting to highlight the beauty of the stone in the evening. Installation and Maintenance Proper installation and ongoing maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and beauty of your limestone landscape. While some DIY enthusiasts may choose to tackle smaller limestone projects themselves, larger or more complex installations often require the expertise of a qualified landscape contractor. Look for a contractor with experience in working with limestone and a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship. During the installation ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage and prolong the life of your limestone landscape. The base should be properly prepared so that water can flow away from the stonework. Regular cleaning and sealing will help protect your limestone from staining and weathering. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the stone as needed, and apply a sealant specifically designed for limestone to protect it from moisture and dirt. Conclusion Limestone’s enduring beauty, versatility, and ability to evoke a sense of timeless elegance make it an ideal choice for creating captivating outdoor spaces. Whether you envision a rustic flagstone pathway meandering through a lush garden, a sophisticated limestone patio perfect for al fresco dining, or a custom water feature crafted by a skilled limestone fabricator that adds a touch of serenity to your backyard oasis, limestone offers endless possibilities for transforming your landscape. With careful planning, meticulous installation, and ongoing maintenance, your limestone landscape will become a sanctuary of natural beauty and enduring value, a testament to your unique style and appreciation for the timeless elegance of natural stone. It will be a space where you can connect with nature, entertain friends and family, or simply unwind and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings for generations to come. So,

Read More »