Aldi is set to open nine stores in the capital this year as part of a £55 million investment within the M25. Building on its promise to bring unbeatable value to even more Londoners, the supermarket has revealed four of the locations set to welcome new Aldi stores in the
New phase promises high-tech growth for Oxfordshire innovation hub Albion Land’s flagship technology park, Catalyst Bicester, is set for significant expansion following Cherwell District Council’s approval of the next phase of development. The green light paves the way for an additional 128,000 sq ft of premium employment space across three
The Council’s executive will be asked to consider a report at next week’s committee meeting (Weds 22 January) outlining a range of land disposals across Manchester that will help deliver more than 700 new affordable homes. In 2023/24 the highest level of affordable housing was delivered for a decade, contributing
The Government Property Agency has appointed Mace to deliver the new headquarters of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) at the University of Reading Whiteknights campus. Appointed through the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework, Mace will be responsible for constructing the state-of-the-art building, which will serve as a
The joint venture’s first acquisition comes days after the announcement of the €840 million pan-European logistics partnership managed by M7 M7 Real Estate (“M7”), the pan-European investor and asset manager, announces the acquisition of Broadheath Network Centre in Greater Manchester for £47 million, from Network Space Developments. The acquisition is the
WREKIN Products has proudly achieved the We Invest In People standard accreditation from Investors in People, marking its commitment to staff welfare and organisational standards. This milestone involved the specialist civils provider working with Investors in People to evaluate and improve its procedures and personnel. A detailed report was produced,
OCS listed number 36 in the top 100 companies to work for in the UK based on Glassdoor employee feedback. In a study released by Sky News’ blog on 13th January 2025, OCS was listed as the 36th best company to work for in the UK and the only facilities
Electrical Safety First is proud to champion the launch of ACE:Electrical (the Apprentice Channel of Excellence), a groundbreaking new platform offering free, high-quality teaching and learning resources for all UK electrical apprentices. This innovative channel, hosted on Learning Lounge, aims to empower the next generation of electricians with the skills
LondonMetric Property Plc has announced a series of acquisitions and disposals totalling £124 million, marking a significant reshaping of its portfolio. The company has divested ten non-core properties for £74.2 million (LondonMetric share: £69.4 million) at a net initial yield (NIY) of 6.9% and acquired seven properties for £50.1 million,
Often, latent potential exists in old structures and abandoned spaces, just waiting for creative minds to release their possibilities. By using sustainable techniques and innovative design, these areas can become vibrant community hubs or unique business enterprises. Apart from maintaining a place’s special quality, the adaptive reuse of historical buildings
Aldi is set to open nine stores in the capital this year as part of a £55 million investment within the M25. Building on its promise to bring unbeatable value to even more Londoners, the supermarket has revealed four of the locations set to welcome new Aldi stores in the next 12 months. Shoppers in Wimbledon, Fulham Broadway, Caterham and Orpington are all set to benefit from a new Aldi store in 2025. The openings form part of Aldi’s £650 million investment in Britain in 2025. The investment also includes upgrades at some of its existing locations within the M25, including an extension to its Colindale store. Aldi has a long-term ambition to open another 100 stores in London, creating around 3,500 new jobs. Jonathan Neale, Managing Director of National Real Estate at Aldi UK, said: “We strongly believe that everyone in Britain should have access to high quality food at our unbeatable Aldi prices. But we know that there are still thousands of shoppers in the capital that don’t yet have access to an Aldi nearby. “We don’t think it’s fair that so many people still have to make do with big prices at other supermarkets, which is why London continues to be a real focus for us as we work to bring even more Aldi stores to shoppers across the capital.” Aldi has been named by Which? as officially the UK’s cheapest supermarket of the year for 2024, the fourth year in a row the supermarket has picked up the title. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New phase promises high-tech growth for Oxfordshire innovation hub Albion Land’s flagship technology park, Catalyst Bicester, is set for significant expansion following Cherwell District Council’s approval of the next phase of development. The green light paves the way for an additional 128,000 sq ft of premium employment space across three state-of-the-art, sustainable buildings along the A41. Planning permission for the project, part of Phase 4 of the Catalyst masterplan, was granted at a council meeting on Thursday, 16 January. With eight buildings already completed and fully let to advanced manufacturing, research and development (R&D), and design companies—including notable names such as Evolito, Tesla, and Yasa—Catalyst Bicester continues to establish itself as a hub for innovation and technology. The development also benefits from nearby amenities such as the Holiday Inn Express and David Lloyd Leisure, enhancing the appeal of the park for employees and businesses alike. Simon Parsons, Director of Albion Land, said:“This is fantastic news for Bicester, Oxfordshire, and the high-skills technology and engineering sectors in the region. These bespoke new buildings will provide exceptional workspace for companies eager to join the Catalyst Bicester success story and benefit from our efforts to strengthen Bicester’s tech ecosystem. We’re thrilled with the planning approval and are eager to move forward to meet the strong demand from occupiers.” Construction of Phase 3 is planned for 2025, delivering a further 110,000 sq ft across five buildings. Phase 4 will follow unless accelerated by tenant demand. Phase 4 represents a £55 million investment and could create around 500 additional jobs, depending on the eventual occupiers of the new space. Catalyst Bicester’s development began in 2021, with Phases 1 and 2 now fully built out and leased. The most recent addition, Unit 8 (38,710 sq ft), was completed last autumn and is already home to an international advanced-engineering and design business. Demand for space at Catalyst Bicester is driven by the growth of Oxfordshire’s innovation and technology sectors, as well as the park’s strategic location, high-quality amenities, and integration within the region’s tech and engineering ecosystem. The three new Phase 4 buildings will occupy a prime site fronting the A41, directly opposite the Holiday Inn Express. The site is designated in the Cherwell Local Plan for knowledge-based employment development. Albion Land was supported in the planning process by Quod (planning consultants) and Cornish (architects). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Council’s executive will be asked to consider a report at next week’s committee meeting (Weds 22 January) outlining a range of land disposals across Manchester that will help deliver more than 700 new affordable homes. In 2023/24 the highest level of affordable housing was delivered for a decade, contributing to the Council’s ambitious housing strategy to deliver at least 10,000 genuinely affordable, Council and Social Rent new homes up to 2032. To further meet this target Manchester City Council will continue to collaborate within the Manchester Housing Providers Partnership – coordinating support and delivering sustainable affordable housing to meet the city’s needs. New housing will help reduce demand on Manchester’s housing register and will be part of the Council’s approach to help reduce homelessness. Legal & General Affordable Homes and L&Q have recently joined the Housing Partnership, broadening capacity and complementing the specialty of existing partners, but also expanding delivery resources over the housing strategy period to 2032. The report outlines the Housing Partnerships plans for ten brownfield sites and how they have been designed to directly address acute local affordable housing demand, providing a broad range of different house types and tenures ranging from specialist supported accommodation, apartments for key workers and right-sizers, along with larger family houses. Following Executive approval, all proposals are expected to conclude pre-application engagement with the Local Planning Authority and for public consultation on the design proposals to commence before construction works begin on site as soon as possible. Various 100% affordable housing land disposals include: Read the exec paper in full to find out more Leader of the Council Bev Craig said: “Building more affordable homes for Manchester residents is one of Manchester City Council’s biggest priorities and we have a massive housebuilding programme under way to build at least 10,000 genuinely affordable, council, social homes. “We know that building these much-needed homes isn’t easy, so we have looked at how we can get the best use from land that the council owns to help us reach ambitious housing strategy. I’m pleased to bring forward the latest examples of where we our building on our land. “We are on track to meet our target, and we have seen more genuinely affordable homes built in the last year than at any other time in more than a decade. This is being done through programmes like this, our own building company This City, Project 500, large regeneration schemes and working to influence the market. We are committed to building the new homes Manchester residents need to thrive.” Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said: “We are constantly reviewing what land opportunities are at our disposal to build much-need housing across a range of tenures and types to meet demand in a local area. These parcels of land will all deliver the homes we know these communities need, including significant affordable and social housing, but also specialist housing too. We really welcome the accelerated delivery of new social and affordable housing that these sites will enable. “This is in no small part thanks to our strong partnership approach, working closely with Manchester’s housing providers using Council-owned brownfield land, public and government funding, and the expertise of the city’s affordable housing developers to build high quality, low carbon homes for Manchester people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Government Property Agency has appointed Mace to deliver the new headquarters of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) at the University of Reading Whiteknights campus. Appointed through the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework, Mace will be responsible for constructing the state-of-the-art building, which will serve as a global hub for weather and climate research. The new headquarters will feature a range of advanced facilities, including modern workspaces, meeting rooms, a lecture theatre, a council chamber, and an interactive weather room. The building’s design incorporates a strong emphasis on sustainability, with features such as optimised solar shading and energy-efficient systems to align with the 2030 LETI (Low Energy Transformation Initiative) standards for operational energy. This project marks a significant step forward in enhancing the capabilities of the ECMWF in its crucial work of providing accurate weather forecasts and climate information. Georgina Dunn, Interim Director of Capital Projects at the GPA, said: “The new ECMWF headquarters will not only advance capabilities in weather and climate research but also bring significant benefits to the local community. By prioritising both embodied and operational carbon reductions, this project exemplifies our commitment to both sustainable development and scientific innovation.” Located next to the University of Reading’s renowned Department of Meteorology, the new ECMWF headquarters will accommodate up to 300 scientists and staff to support world-leading work on all aspects of weather prediction systems, forecast production, and research into climate change. Rob Lemming, Managing Director, Public Sector and Life Sciences, Construction, UK at Mace, added: “This new state-of-the-art weather centre will be a global hub for scientists to advance numerical weather prediction and inform the fight against climate change. Our focus on sustainability and innovation for this project will help the new headquarters meet the highest environmental standards. “Every design decision has been driven by our commitment to reducing carbon emissions, in both operational and embodied carbon. This project exemplifies our dedication to creating a more sustainable future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The joint venture’s first acquisition comes days after the announcement of the €840 million pan-European logistics partnership managed by M7 M7 Real Estate (“M7”), the pan-European investor and asset manager, announces the acquisition of Broadheath Network Centre in Greater Manchester for £47 million, from Network Space Developments. The acquisition is the first undertaken by M7 on behalf of the newly formed pan-European industrial & logistics joint venture between Oxford Properties, a leading global real estate investor, developer and manager, and AustralianSuper, Australia’s largest superannuation fund. The joint venture, which is named the European Supply Chain Income Partnership (“ESCIP”), is aiming to build a €4.5 billion portfolio in the next three to five years and was formed through the acquisition by AustralianSuper of a 50% stake in Oxford’s c. €840 million industrial & logistics portfolio and its M7 platform. The joint venture is expected to complete at the end of Q1 of 2025 and is conditional, amongst other things, on customary regulatory approvals. The c. 206,000 sq ft prime, new, multi-let industrial estate was recently developed by Network Space Developments who acquired the site in 2021 ahead of building out the facility which now comprises 25 high-specification units ranging in size from 2,080 sq ft to 41,738 sq ft. Broadheath Network Centre was constructed using recycled steel and concrete, and includes EV charging points which alongside a number of other environmental initiatives have led to its BREEAM ‘Very Good’ and EPC ‘A’ ratings. The estate is currently 66% let with key occupiers including Maersk, National Trust, Options Greathire, Xpand Logistics, Socotec and Torque Golf. M7 will undertake an active asset management strategy to lease up the remaining vacant space and drive the income profile of the asset. Strategically located in Altrincham, an established logistics hub in Greater Manchester, Broadheath Network Centre benefits from direct access to the M56, M60 and M6 motorways, as well as its proximity to Manchester Airport, enabling both local and national distribution. David Ebbrell, CEO M7 Real Estate, said: “This acquisition is our first investment on behalf of the newly formed European industrial & logistics strategic partnership with Oxford and AustralianSuper announced earlier last week. To have concluded this transaction so soon after agreeing that joint venture underlines the strong ambitions we all have to grow the ESCIP platform. The Broadheath Network Centre typifies the type of asset we want to add to this portfolio, being a prime last-mile asset in a high growth urban logistics location within a strong and affluent regional city. We now look forward to leveraging the M7 team’s asset management expertise, building on the leasing momentum already achieved by Network Space Developments, to let up the remaining vacant space. At the same time, we are actively pursuing high-quality urban logistics assets in key European markets, aiming to capitalise on robust occupier demand.” Alicia Peters, Vice President of Logistics & Residential, Oxford Properties, added: “This transaction, coming days after the formation of the joint venture with AustralianSuper, is a real statement of intent as we look to grow ESCIP into a leading, €4.5 billion, pan-European logistics portfolioover the next three to five years. We believe this is an attractive moment in the cycle to deploy capital into European logistics and our high conviction investment strategies.” Stephen Barnes, NSD Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to have sold Broadheath Networkcentre to M7 and Oxford. Completed in March this year, the scheme is already 66% let including two further lettings completed in recent weeks, achieving a new headline rent – a testament to the quality of the scheme, its location, design and sustainability credentials. The scheme’s delivery is the result of a well-established and successful partnership between ourselves, Trafford MBC who have provided debt finance, and the principal contractor Bansco. “The sale process with M7 and Oxford has worked incredibly smoothly – a result of our preparedness and the hard work and dedication of both our corporate teams, led by Dan Adamson, together with M7 and Oxford’s teams. We wish to thank all those involved for ensuring a swift and successful conclusion.” M7 Real Estate was represented by Savills, Jones Day, Deloitte, TFT Consultants and Nova Ambiente. Network Space was represented by B8RE, Gateley and Grant Thornton. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
WREKIN Products has proudly achieved the We Invest In People standard accreditation from Investors in People, marking its commitment to staff welfare and organisational standards. This milestone involved the specialist civils provider working with Investors in People to evaluate and improve its procedures and personnel. A detailed report was produced, highlighting strengths and offering recommendations for improvement. Following the report, significant changes were implemented with the help of consultants, Astrum Associates, which has modernised the HR and team management processes completely. These updates included enhancements to onboarding, welfare services, and structured career progression meetings. Having assessed more than 50,000 businesses during its 30-plus years of operation, Investors in People is a trusted, independent, and internationally recognised body which evaluates businesses based on their commitment to employee wellbeing and gives critical recommendations for improvement. The Wrekin team celebrated their achievement by having the plaque unveiled at an internal ceremony with a specially made cake for all staff to share. Driving the effort was Wrekin’s head of HR and senior accountant Mel Kinsey, who described the accreditation as a ‘worthwhile recognition of the team’s hard work paying off’. She said: “I’ve been with Wrekin for a long period of time, joining when the company was only small. Now that we have grown in size, it is rewarding to be putting measures in place to ensure people are having a positive working experience and no one is overlooked. I’m passionate about improving people’s work lives and I’ve championed this initiative for some time. “It was vital to make these changes company-wide, encouraging a culture where everyone contributes to building and maintaining the great team spirit we have. The response has been fantastic, with colleagues embracing the opportunity to grow and support one another. “People need to feel supported, included, and respected. Thanks to our work with Astrum and Investors in People, we’ve made significant progress in these areas. However, this just the beginning as we are now aiming for gold accreditation and even greater improvements. At Wrekin, our people are important to us and we’re committed to continued growth.” To learn more about Wrekin and its culture, visit: www.wrekinproducts.com/about-us Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
OCS listed number 36 in the top 100 companies to work for in the UK based on Glassdoor employee feedback. In a study released by Sky News’ blog on 13th January 2025, OCS was listed as the 36th best company to work for in the UK and the only facilities management company to be listed in the top 100. The survey carried out by employee development platform Zensai, used feedback provided through Glassdoor to rank companies in order of the best to work for in the UK. Glassdoor empowers job seekers with straight-from-the-source insights and reviews. Receiving a listing inside the top 40 amongst other well recognised brands such as Apple, Dell and Microsoft, further demonstrates OCS’s commitment to making people the best that they can be. The score of 4.4/5 on the platform and the position of 36 in the league table further solidifies the importance of the continual development of its people. Commenting on the result of the study, Daniel Dickson, CEO of OCS UK and Ireland said, “This study is independent validation of our focus on the development of our team and the positive culture we have built at OCS. As a business we are focused on making both people and places the best they can be. To be the only facilities management company to make it into the top 100 is a fantastic achievement which demonstrates that we are truly living our purpose as an organisation.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Electrical Safety First is proud to champion the launch of ACE:Electrical (the Apprentice Channel of Excellence), a groundbreaking new platform offering free, high-quality teaching and learning resources for all UK electrical apprentices. This innovative channel, hosted on Learning Lounge, aims to empower the next generation of electricians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their careers. Accessible excellence for apprentices From January 10, UK electrical apprentices enrolled with approved training providers will have access to an ever-expanding library of modular, bite-sized content at no cost. Designed to complement hands-on learning, ACE:Electrical delivers expert-led modules covering key industry topics, from electrical protection systems to health and safety legislation. New content will be added weekly, ensuring apprentices always have fresh resources to enhance their understanding and technical skills. Industry icons and rising stars ACE:Electrical is brought to life by a team of exceptional presenters, with Dave Austin, a revered figure in the electrical industry being joined by two rising stars: Veronica Jennings, winner of the Electrical Apprentice of the Year in 2022, and James Whelehan, a qualified electrician and QS. Together, they offer an engaging mix of experience and relatability, making the content both inspiring and accessible. Tutor support and licensing options ACE:Electrical isn’t just for apprentices. Electrical tutors at approved training centres can access a suite of tools to elevate their teaching. With a centre licence, tutors can monitor student progress, direct learners to specific modules, and seamlessly integrate ACE content into classroom lessons. This dual approach ensures that both apprentices and educators benefit from the platform’s extensive resources. Building outstanding electricians The mission of ACE:Electrical is clear: to help create a new generation of outstanding electricians. By offering free, expert-led resources to apprentices and invaluable teaching tools to tutors, the platform bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. What’s coming throughout January and FebruaryThe initial content roll-out for ACE:Electrical includes: Enrol today Apprentices and tutors can enrol now by visiting ace.learninglounge.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to access a transformative learning resource that is shaping the next generation of electrical professionals. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LondonMetric Property Plc has announced a series of acquisitions and disposals totalling £124 million, marking a significant reshaping of its portfolio. The company has divested ten non-core properties for £74.2 million (LondonMetric share: £69.4 million) at a net initial yield (NIY) of 6.9% and acquired seven properties for £50.1 million, reflecting a rising NIY of up to 7.2% over five years. Strategic Disposals: Focus on Core Growth The sale of ten non-core properties includes: Since March 2024, LondonMetric has offloaded 65 assets for £307 million (LondonMetric share: £302 million), achieving a 2% premium above book value. Targeted Acquisitions: High-Yield Opportunities LondonMetric’s acquisitions total £50.1 million, reflecting a strong focus on high-quality assets with promising rental growth. Highlights include: Commentary on the Moves Andrew Jones, Chief Executive of LondonMetric, highlighted the company’s strategy:“We have again successfully disposed of non-core assets at prices in line with our valuations and reinvested into higher-quality opportunities in strong conviction sectors, where rental growth prospects are more compelling.” Future-Focused Portfolio Optimisation This reshuffling aligns with LondonMetric’s broader strategy of enhancing portfolio quality, boosting rental income, and focusing on high-demand sectors. By divesting less lucrative assets and reinvesting in prime properties with strong growth potential, LondonMetric is positioning itself for sustained success in a competitive market. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Often, latent potential exists in old structures and abandoned spaces, just waiting for creative minds to release their possibilities. By using sustainable techniques and innovative design, these areas can become vibrant community hubs or unique business enterprises. Apart from maintaining a place’s special quality, the adaptive reuse of historical buildings and the revival of abandoned urban sites help the locals feel proud and belong. Communities must embrace the chances inside their neglected areas since this transforming strategy finally results in economic growth and improved quality of life. Reimagining the potential Ageing structures and neglected spaces often have unrealised potential, only waiting for creative ideas to revitalise them. These areas can become active community hubs or distinctive businesses by adopting sustainable methods and creative design. The opportunities are great, whether through the regeneration of abandoned urban sites or the adaptive reuse of historical buildings. In this regard, companies like Chain Demolition provide specialist demolition and removal services stressing safety, sustainability, and efficiency, which play a vital role. This strategy not only protects the character of a place but also makes inhabitants proud, which helps promote economic development and improved quality of living. Planning and preparation Effective transformation of former areas depends on careful design and exhaustive preparation. Understanding local stakeholders, including businesses and residents, depends only on interacting with them. Thorough evaluations of the site’s historical relevance and structural integrity make informed decision-making possible, guaranteeing that any renovations honour the original character while fulfilling modern needs. Early in the process, obtaining the required licenses and financing helps expedite development, enabling a more seamless transition from idea to reality. Execution and implementation Realising ideas calls for a well-coordinated strategy that combines imagination and usefulness. Good project management becomes crucial once the building guarantees that budgets and timeframes are followed while upholding high-quality standards. Working together among architects, contractors, and municipal authorities creates a flawless flow that lets one make changes as problems develop. Frequent contact with the community throughout the process fosters trust and promotes local involvement, which eventually helps to integrate the changed area into its surroundings more successfully. Embracing the results Celebrating the end of a metamorphosis lets one consider the path and its positive effects on society. Planning open days or events lets residents and guests interact with the recently renovated area, encouraging pride and ownership. Showcasing local businesses, artists, and cultural projects within the region brightens the area and promotes continuous patronage and support. Emphasising the accomplishments will help stakeholders stimulate more initiatives, generating a rejuvenation chain reaction benefiting the neighbourhood. Conclusion The ability to develop creative ideas and teamwork is shown by how abandoned places and old buildings are turned into active community venues. These restored landscapes can help individuals develop a fresh sense of identity and belonging by prioritising careful planning, involving local stakeholders, and accurately running projects. Celebrating these changes emphasises the good changes done and motivates continuous community participation and support of local projects. In the end, such projects not only help to conserve the historic character of a place but also open the path for enhanced quality of life for everybody and sustainable economic development. Image attributed to Unsplash.com
