Today, Malaysian engineering, property and infrastructure group Gamuda Berhad and London-based real estate investor Castleforge marked the next stage in their £1.2bn redevelopment of 75 London Wall in the City of London, with a groundbreaking ceremony and the signing of one of London’s largest property development loans in recent years,
The Gym Group has unveiled ambitious expansion plans for 2025, aiming to open between 14 and 16 new sites as part of its long-term strategy to launch 50 locations over the next three years. Accelerated Expansion Plans Building on a successful 2024 that saw the addition of 12 new gyms,
Stepnell has officially commenced refurbishment work on the first phase of transforming the historic Leamington Spa Town Hall into a modern creative hub. The project, undertaken for Warwick District Council, marks a major step in revitalising the landmark building, which was originally constructed in 1884. The refurbishment on the Leamington
After two years in development, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust are well on their journey to net zero now the multi-technology decarbonisation scheme at The Christie Hospital has gone live. Delivering over £1m in annual energy cost savings and reducing the site’s carbon footprint by around 1,000 tonnes a year, this
Over 200,000 homeowners contacted Octopus Energy to enquire about a heat pump in 2024, the UK’s largest power company reports today. This marks a staggering 144% increase from the previous year, signaling a growing trend among homeowners eager to ditch traditional heating systems. The UK heat pump industry hit a
A new, luxury apartment in London’s Westminster has been transformed through a groundbreaking approach blending architecture, colour, design, and music with synaesthesia. Situated in London’s cultural capital, The Aria is a breathtaking penthouse in Westminster’s iconic Chimes building and marks the debut of a pioneering synaesthesia-inspired design led by
PERI UK has qualified for Constructionline Gold as part of its commitment to making construction more efficient, faster and safer for all. Constructionline is an independent body which collects information on supply chain members to assess whether they have the required capabilities to supply, helping to reduce risks for those
Less than a quarter of skilled trades and builders (23%) are aware of the Future Homes Standard and how it might impact their work, according to new research. The news comes following confusion in the media about the Future Homes Standard, with recent reports suggesting the government will scrap the
Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire
Organisers of UK Construction Week (UKCW) have announced another major coup for the show’s 10th anniversary year, with the news that UKCW London will be co-locating with the 14th edition of The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, the principal industry event for surface design. Established 26 years ago, the show
Today, Malaysian engineering, property and infrastructure group Gamuda Berhad and London-based real estate investor Castleforge marked the next stage in their £1.2bn redevelopment of 75 London Wall in the City of London, with a groundbreaking ceremony and the signing of one of London’s largest property development loans in recent years, valued at £500 million. The event was led by Dato’ Lin Yun Ling, Gamuda Group Managing Director, and Michael Kovacs, Castleforge Founding Partner. They were joined by Gus Wiseman, Global Head of Investor Relations for the UK Government and Howard Dawber, Deputy London Mayor. Over 80 attendees were present, including financiers, property agents, and a range of property development and built environment specialists. The investment is another signal of support from Gamuda for the UK property market, with the group viewing London as a key strategic destination for real estate investment. Since 2022, Gamuda has committed a total gross development value of £1.4 billion to the UK market, encompassing prime commercial office assets, residential properties and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). The 75 London Wall project is the largest investment for Gamuda in the UK thus far. Complementing this is Castleforge’s commitment to delivering best-in-class workspaces that prioritise sustainability and tenant well-being which set new standards for the adaptive reuse of office buildings in the City of London. The site has received full planning consent in June 2024 and construction has begun. Upon full redevelopment expected in 2027, 75 London Wall will be a grade-A sustainable top-tier office with a net lettable area of more than 450,000 square feet with the best ESG standards – BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, WELL Core ‘Platinum’, and NABERS UK 5 Star Design. This landmark redevelopment will transform the building into a sustainable commercial hub in one of the world’s most competitive business districts. The ground floor will feature new commercial units, alongside a cultural forum space for events, performances, and public speaking, alongside open, green spaces. Dato’ Lin Yun Ling, Gamuda Group Managing Director said, “Our acquisition of this building in 2023 stemmed from the “Flight to Quality” to top grade office spaces in the real estate market. Multinational corporations are drawn to London, the epicentre of Britain’s economy and home to a huge proportion of its primary export – global services. This has driven a surge in demand for premium offices, linking quality workplaces to higher productivity. With a limited supply of best-in-class ESG spaces, rental growth remains strong, making 75 London Wall a standout investment.” Michael Kovacs, Founding Partner of Castleforge, said “We were delighted to welcome Dato’ Lin, Gus Wiseman and Howard Dawber to the site today to witness the progress being made on a project that we believe will set a new benchmark for sustainable, expertly designed office developments in London. In an increasingly competitive landscape, we know that 75 London Wall will stand out as a true best-in-class office development for those who want to attract the best talent in and around our city.” Gus Wiseman, Head of Investor Relations for the UK Government, said “We welcome this show of confidence in the UK economy by Gamuda and Castleforge. In years to come, this investment will create a busy trading floor for our world-leading financial services industry. This will create jobs in construction and at full occupancy, will house over 5,000 workers. Redevelopment projects such as 75 London Wall are vital to this Government’s mission to achieve the fastest growth in the G7.” Ravi Stickney, Cheyne Capital Managing Partner & CIO, Real Estate said “Following our £150million loan for the acquisition of 75 London Wall in 2023, we are delighted to extend our support to Gamuda and Castleforge with a £500m loan for its redevelopment. At Cheyne, we remain committed to financing the creation of productive and sustainable assets to support the growth of the UK’s vibrant economy. We are therefore thrilled with the significant vote of confidence that Gamuda has shown in London.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Gym Group has unveiled ambitious expansion plans for 2025, aiming to open between 14 and 16 new sites as part of its long-term strategy to launch 50 locations over the next three years. Accelerated Expansion Plans Building on a successful 2024 that saw the addition of 12 new gyms, the operator now manages 245 locations nationwide. To support its rapid growth, The Gym Group enlisted property consultancy Savills in April to identify and secure prime locations for its upcoming sites. Strong Financial and Membership Growth The announcement coincides with the release of the company’s pre-close trading update for 2024, which highlighted impressive results. Revenue grew by 11% year-on-year to £226.3 million, while membership numbers rose by 5%, climbing from 850,000 in 2023 to 891,000 by the end of 2024. Will Orr, CEO of The Gym Group, expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory:“We have delivered strong progress and momentum in our Next Chapter growth plan, resulting in FY24 profits exceeding the top end of our previous guidance. There is plenty more still to come as we execute our plan, and we look to 2025 with confidence. “We are well prepared for our key member recruitment period in the current quarter and beyond, with our strengthening new site pipeline and our flexible, high-value, low-cost offer making gym membership more accessible for all.” Looking Ahead to 2025 As The Gym Group positions itself for continued growth, its low-cost, high-value model is expected to attract a wider audience, particularly in the current economic climate. With its robust expansion strategy and increasing membership base, the company is poised to strengthen its status as one of the UK’s leading fitness operators. The year ahead promises not only new locations but also broader access to affordable fitness options, reinforcing The Gym Group’s commitment to helping communities prioritise health and wellbeing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Stepnell has officially commenced refurbishment work on the first phase of transforming the historic Leamington Spa Town Hall into a modern creative hub. The project, undertaken for Warwick District Council, marks a major step in revitalising the landmark building, which was originally constructed in 1884. The refurbishment on the Leamington town hall will focus on enhancing accessibility, safety, and functionality, ensuring the building serves as a community asset for years to come. The initial phase of the work includes crucial structural upgrades, such as renovations to the reception area, the installation of new toilet facilities, and the addition of a modern passenger lift. These improvements are designed to increase the building’s capacity while meeting current accessibility and safety standards. Sustainability is a core focus of the refurbishment, with Stepnell adhering to industry standards to recycle waste and reduce the environmental impact of the project. Locally sourced materials, including handmade and imperial bricks, will be used, further supporting conservation efforts and local supply chains. A unique aspect of the project is Stepnell’s commitment to protecting the peregrine falcons that have nested in the clock tower since 2017. Special noise-reduction methods and scaffolding screens are being implemented to safeguard the birds during the nesting season, ensuring minimal disruption to the local environment. In addition to the building work, the project will provide opportunities for local apprentices and trainees to gain valuable hands-on experience, further aligning with Stepnell’s commitment to social value and supporting the local community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
After two years in development, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust are well on their journey to net zero now the multi-technology decarbonisation scheme at The Christie Hospital has gone live. Delivering over £1m in annual energy cost savings and reducing the site’s carbon footprint by around 1,000 tonnes a year, this is a key project in the Trust’s sustainability aspirations, and puts them a step closer towards achieving the NHS target of net zero by 2040. The project was part funded by an £8m grant through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) to support the installation of a self-funding fully integrated energy solution comprising a unique blend of renewable technologies. Vital Energi have installed two air source heat pumps, 640 solar panels, which have been installed on roofs across the hospital to generate independent electricity for the site, and a 2MW battery energy storage system (BESS), where excess electricity can be stored for use at a later time. As well as enabling the site to maximise the use of onsite generation and help the hospital avoid import electricity at the most expensive times, the BESS will provide flexibility during times of high demand and help create a smart grid from which the local community will benefit. Energy efficiency measures have also been installed, including the upgrade of 3,000 lights to LED fittings, the replacement of aged steam infrastructure heating distribution with modern high efficiency low temperature hot water distribution, and optimisation and upgrades to the existing Building Energy Management Systems (BMS). Alex Beedle, Head of Estates at The Christie, said: “We are very pleased with the decarbonisation scheme. The reduction in carbon emissions is estimated to be around 10% of the total from our site and is a big step towards achieving our ambitions for net zero in accordance with NHS targets. We will also make significant savings on our energy bill year after year.” Phil Mottershead, Project Development Director at Vital Energi, said: “We are incredibly proud to help the Trust on their journey to net zero through the installation of low carbon technologies and futureproofed energy infrastructure at The Christie Hospital, which ensures that the Trust not only meets its sustainability goals but also operates with greater efficiency in the years to come. The Christie has been Vital Energi’s charity of choice for many years, making this project particularly close to our hearts as we support their mission to support the development of cancer prevention, treatment, research and education.” The project was delivered through the Carbon and Energy Fund Framework (CEF), which has been specifically created to facilitate energy infrastructure projects for public sector organisations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Over 200,000 homeowners contacted Octopus Energy to enquire about a heat pump in 2024, the UK’s largest power company reports today. This marks a staggering 144% increase from the previous year, signaling a growing trend among homeowners eager to ditch traditional heating systems. The UK heat pump industry hit a new record with almost 60,000 new installations in 2024*. With the UK government’s annual target of 600,000 new heat pump installations by 2028 another year closer, Octopus’ figures show exponentially growing consumer demand. A similar growth from 2025-2026, 2026-2026 and 2027-2028 would see the UK easily hit this target. Furthermore, half (49%) of UK consumers want to invest in low-carbon heating solutions, a recent study revealed*. Thanks to the £7,500 grant from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), the costs of getting a heat pump are now on par with a new gas boiler. Heat pumps are also cheaper to run than gas boilers with dedicated smart tariffs. Octopus’ ‘Cosy Octopus’ can save heat pump customers £315 a year on heating costs compared to gas boiler customers on an SVT**. To further drive down running costs, the government is currently considering moving environmental and social levies off electricity. Alex Schoch, Global Director of Clean Tech at Octopus Energy at Octopus Energy, said: “With over 200,000 inquiries in just one year, it’s clear that the UK is at the cusp of a heating revolution. “The appetite is there, British homeowners are hungry to go green. But the industry must step up and demystify heat pump technology to help people make informed choices.” Octopus has already invested over £75 million to speed up the rollout of heat pumps. Its proprietary ‘Cosy 6’ heat pump is designed and manufactured in the UK. Octopus also built an R&D and engineer training centre for heat pumps in Slough – the first of its kind in the country. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new, luxury apartment in London’s Westminster has been transformed through a groundbreaking approach blending architecture, colour, design, and music with synaesthesia. Situated in London’s cultural capital, The Aria is a breathtaking penthouse in Westminster’s iconic Chimes building and marks the debut of a pioneering synaesthesia-inspired design led by award-winning interior designer, Jo Love. In a design first, Jo Love harnessed her unique synaesthetic ability – where sounds trigger visual perceptions of colour and form – to influence every aspect of the space. To create a holistic and immersive environment, Jo composed a personalised playlist for each room, drawing inspiration from the melodies. For example, the penthouse’s kitchen was infused with the carefree spirit of Caius’ track In the Sun, which inspired a vibrant, health-focused design. This resulted in calming artworks of bamboo leaves, lotus flowers, and olive trees, symbolising both renewal and the rich history of Westminster. To bring Jo’s vision to life, she collaborated with Crown Trade’s colour experts to curate a palette comprising of up to 50 custom shades. The colours were intentionally selected to support the function of each room while amplifying the building’s natural light and creating a seamless, therapeutic atmosphere for residents. Deep greens and browns in the master bedroom evoke calm, promoting restful sleep, while the living areas feature lilacs, creams, and greens to inspire relaxation, as well as bespoke artwork which has been painted directly onto the walls. Each hue reflects the building’s rhythm, heritage, and the vibrancy of London itself. Jo Love, Creative Director at LOVE Design Studio, said: “We are always looking at new ways to create beautiful spaces for people to thrive. At The Aria, we explored expanding the senses by blending colour with music and design details to create a unique set of spaces intrinsically linked with positive living. “Partnering with Crown Paints was a key part to realise the vision – with over 50 intuitively selected colours, the use of paint extended way beyond a background colour. We placed the Crown paint at the forefront within art ceilings and furniture for the ultimate colour experience.” Lauren Burnett, Architectural & Design Consultant at Crown Paints, shared: “This project has been an exciting and truly inspiring collaboration. Integrating sound and colour in such an innovative way was a first for us, and we’re delighted with the outcome. “We hope the residents of The Aria will enjoy these spaces for years to come, whilst also prompting other designers and users to think deeper about the impact of colour through senses.” Beyond the aesthetic, the project also emphasises longevity. To ensure the apartment’s striking finish endures, Crown Trade’s Clean Extreme Scrubbable Matt was selected for the interior walls and ceilings. This premium, stain-resistant paint can withstand regular cleaning without compromising its rich colour saturation, making it the perfect choice for a high-end, future-proof interior. For more information about Crown Paints’ colour services, visit Crown Paints Professional. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
PERI UK has qualified for Constructionline Gold as part of its commitment to making construction more efficient, faster and safer for all. Constructionline is an independent body which collects information on supply chain members to assess whether they have the required capabilities to supply, helping to reduce risks for those selecting suppliers. This accreditation comes at a pivotal time, as the Procurement Act (2023) is set to introduce changes that will impact the governance of public procurement in most parts of the UK. A streamlined approach PERI, a leader in temporary works industry, says that its Constructionline Gold accreditation meets the requirements of the Common Assessment Standard, which aims to streamline the procurement process. As a pre-qualified supplier, the company will simplify the assessment of its competencies and capabilities, saving all stakeholders valuable time. All relevant information about PERI’s qualifications is available digitally on the Constructionline portal. Additionally, the accreditation is expected to enhance collaboration with tier 1 contractors throughout the project lifecycle, fostering greater alignment, transparency, and trust. Matt McCarthy, Infrastructure Sales Manager at PERI UK, stated, “As the leading supplier of formwork in the temporary works sector, we have a responsibility to meet the latest standards and provide tier 1 contractors with the confidence they need when procuring for infrastructure projects. The way tier 1 contractors approach the procurement of temporary works equipment has evolved significantly over the years. Being a Constructionline Gold member places us in a strong position as the new Procurement Act takes effect, enabling us to showcase our capabilities more efficiently than ever before. Our Gold accreditation is the highest level of recognition, proving that we operate at the highest standards expected from a top-tier supply chain partner. It allows us to clearly demonstrate our competence and adherence to industry standards, ensuring safety and quality on-site—an essential factor in preventing risks.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Less than a quarter of skilled trades and builders (23%) are aware of the Future Homes Standard and how it might impact their work, according to new research. The news comes following confusion in the media about the Future Homes Standard, with recent reports suggesting the government will scrap the current agreement to ban gas boilers in new homes by 2035. The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero has responded to the claims, to say the claims are ‘categorically wrong’. The research, from leading national builders merchant Jewson, found that of those who are aware of the upcoming legislation – which will aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels to heat homes – almost a third (30%) envisage it will put financial pressure on their business. A further fifth (18%) think it will require them to invest in additional training and upskilling, to ensure they’re working compliantly. More positively, 17% of respondents to the research – available in Jewson’s Trade Trends report – said once the Future Homes Standard is in place, it will give them an opportunity to enhance their reputation. Almost a third (31%) said when the legislation comes into effect, they don’t think it will impact their business at all. The Future Homes Standard is a government initiative for all newbuild homes, which encourages the use of low carbon energy sources including heat source pumps and other renewables. It is the next iteration of Part L of the Building Regulations, which came into place in 2022. As part of the Trade Trends research, Jewson also asked tradespeople and builders about how the changes to Part L have affected their business so far. More than a third (33%) said they’re now confident in understanding Part L, two fifths (41%) know how to adapt their ways of working to comply, and 32% have changed the materials they’re purchasing to ensure they’re in line with the new regulations. However, almost half (46%) say they would appreciate more support or training from the industry on the regulations moving forwards. Sabrina Passley, Head of Sustainability for STARK Building Materials UK, said: “While there is progress being made to transform the building industry and instil sustainable practices in the development of new properties, both the data from our Trade Trends report and recent reporting in the media demonstrate there is confusion as to what’s to be expected from the Future Homes Standard. As such, there is more that can be done to support tradespeople and builders during this transitional period. “It is vitally important that suppliers and manufacturers in industry work with the government as we edge closer to the Future Homes Standard being introduced, to ensure those delivering new properties and refurbishing existing homes know exactly what is expected of them. “At Jewson, we want to provide our customers with the education, services and products they need to get to grips with the Future Homes Standards, by ensuring easy access to innovative technologies, expert advice, and everything else they might need to build sustainably and with confidence. “Being part of the STARK Group, Jewson can leverage European expertise in sustainability. This gives us a unique opportunity to pass on best practices and lessons from our European colleagues to our UK customers, ensuring they’re prepared for how the regulations will affect them every day.” The Trade Trends report can be downloaded here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Significant investment in product development and testing for its Open State Cavity Barrier (OSCB) and new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges has enhanced their suitability for rainscreen cladding systems, says AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing. Open state cavity barriers and full fill cavity barriers are crucial to fire safety within rainscreen cladding on medium and high-rise buildings. Together they can achieve compartmentation within the void created by the rainscreen cladding. This then provides an effective barrier to the passage of hot smoke and fire behind the cladding system. The OSCB is installed horizontally to permit free flowing ventilation through the cavity in a vertical plane and the wall cavity barrier is fitted vertically to complete compartment lines. AIM’s six OSCBs allow the ventilation necessary within the wall construction to prevent problems of condensation allowing free airflow and drainage with either a 25mm or 44mm air gap. They can fill voids up to 425mm (or greater in particular circumstances). In the event of a fire, heat activates the OSCBs intumescent strip which expands quickly to close the cavity fully. They offer either a 60, 90 or 120-minute performance for both integrity and insulation confirmed by testing in accordance with ASFP Technical Guidance Document 19 and to the general principles of BS EN 1363-1:2020. For use in cavity voids up to 600mm AIM’s new Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) range is available cut to size or in slab form. Available in three thicknesses, 75mm, 100mm and 125mm, they prevent the passage of heat, flame and smoke within the cavity for 30, 60 or 120-minute fire rating periods tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021. This rating makes these wall cavity barriers suitable for medium to high rise buildings. Both the AIM OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) products have third party certification issued by IFC Certification Ltd. “The wide scope of test evidence we now have for the use of our OSCB and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges gives us a compelling fire barrier package for rainscreen cladding,” explains Ian Exall, AIM’s commercial director. “With new technical literature covering the use of these two products together to achieve compartmentation in external cladding, we aim to make specification and installation more straightforward for specifiers, system providers and installers.” “We look forward to making further product development and testing announcements during the next few months.” AIM’s OSCBs and Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) ranges are suitable for both new build rainscreen projects and remediation work. AIM provides technical, specification, training and on-site support. New Wall Cavity Barrier (Red Edition) and OSCB technical literature can be downloaded at: https://www.aimlimited.co.uk/cladding/ Part of the Performance Technology Group, UK-based AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing has over 30 years of experience in the design, testing and manufacturing of high-quality fire, thermal and acoustic barriers. The company produces a wide variety of bespoke insulation products to customer specification and a range of standard products. www.aimlimited.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Organisers of UK Construction Week (UKCW) have announced another major coup for the show’s 10th anniversary year, with the news that UKCW London will be co-locating with the 14th edition of The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, the principal industry event for surface design. Established 26 years ago, the show will bring together around 200 top suppliers, showcasing the latest products and trends in the fast-moving field of surface design. It is a must-attend for architects, designers, developers, fabricators, specialist contractors, installers and KBB outlets. Running from 7-9 May at ExCeL, London, The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, supported by show partner Stone Federation Great Britain, will be three days of inspiration and innovation for the entire supply chain, engaging specifiers, designers, architects, stone masons, wholesalers, fabricators, installers, stone maintenance services, and beyond. Confirmed exhibitors include among others Stonegate, Mapei, Waters Stone, Marble & Granite Centre, Keope Ceramiche, Stone Cladding Systems (SCS), Gwrhyd Specialist Stone Quarry, Arcturus Stone, Stone Automation, EC1 Progetti, Dimpomar and ParCa. The show will feature expert-led seminars, recognise emerging industry talent, and showcase award-winning projects from the last 24 months. It will also shine a spotlight on the latest stone and hard surface design trends, finishes, fixing systems, and technology impacting the UK’s construction environment. Key highlights of The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces include: Richard Bradbury, Managing Director of The QMJ Group, Organisers of The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces, commented: “Co-locating with UK Construction Week presents a fantastic opportunity for The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces to connect with a vast, high-quality audience of building professionals. It will allow exhibitors and visitors alike to benefit both from our specialist focus, and a wider construction event that delivers 300+ seminars, 20+ live demonstrations and 400 exhibitors’. UK Construction Week divisional director, Sam Patel, added: “The theme for this year’s UKCW London show is ‘growth’, so it’s fitting that we are expanding our offer by co-locating with such a prestigious event as The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces. Along with our other new features, it really is a one-stop shop for the whole industry, whatever your specialism.” The UK’s largest event for the built environment, UKCW London will also see the debut of Workwear & PPE Live by PCIAW®, a dedicated show for construction clothing, footwear, and accessories, in an exclusive partnership with the Professional Clothing Industry Association Worldwide (PCIAW®); Onsite On Hire, a hire industry showcase making its return to London after 16 years; and HVAC+R, a new showcase of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration solutions. To register for The Stone Show & Hard Surfaces and UKCW London for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-london-2025/cab-pr Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
