Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn Trust, has exchanged contracts with Curlew Capital’s CST2 Fund to acquire the Poland House development site in Stratford, East London. With planning permission to create modern, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), Firethorn will deliver 284 high-quality student beds at the site. Accompanied by
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will present its draft masterplan for Bristol’s Western Harbour on Monday 10thFebruary, setting out detailed proposals for the city’s western gateway. Western Harbour is one of the most iconic places in the UK with supreme views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge and its spectacular harbour
GRAHAM has been appointed to deliver stage two of the major Didcot and surrounding area infrastructure scheme (HIF1), which aims to tackle traffic congestion, improve travel times, and enhance connectivity in the region. The key elements of the GRAHAM project include the design of the Clifton Hampden Bypass and the
Henry Brothers has successfully completed the construction of an £11 million welfare hub at the Army Training Centre Pirbright in Surrey, England. The Soldiers’ Centre at Alexander Barracks brings existing retail and wellbeing services across the site into a single location, enhancing the training experience for recruits while modernising the
Rents for prime office space* across the globe rose by 0.3% and fit out costs by 0.2% in the final quarter of 2024, says Savills, as demand for top quality office space continues to grow in many markets around the world. According to Savills in its latest quarterly Prime Office Costs
TPG Angelo Gordon has teamed up with developer Hollybrook to invest in the UK’s student accommodation sector, with initial developments valued at £200m (€240m). The partnership’s first projects include a 271-bed student housing scheme in Wimbledon, currently under construction by Hollybrook and set for completion ahead of the 2026/27 academic
Grayson is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Oaklands College for the inaugural Masonry Mentors 2025 event, a groundbreaking bricklaying pilot designed to inspire and develop the next generation of construction talent. Co-developed by Grayson and Oaklands College, the concept was conceived by FE legend Bob Noseda, with support from
Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn Trust, has exchanged contracts with Curlew Capital’s CST2 Fund to acquire the Poland House development site in Stratford, East London. With planning permission to create modern, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), Firethorn will deliver 284 high-quality student beds at the site. Accompanied by generous amenities, including dedicated study spaces, common rooms, and a residents’ gym, the development will feature 35% affordable accommodation. A dedicated community space will also be delivered as part of the scheme. Designed by architects Henley Halebrown, Poland House will be developed to a target “outstanding” BREEAM rating, in line with Firethorn’s commitment to delivering sustainable, best-in-class assets. The site is the third PBSA asset within the growing Firethorn Living portfolio, following the acquisition of a 204-bed development in Hackney Wick last September, and a 230-bed scheme in Leith Walk, Edinburgh, where work is well underway. Marcus Weeks, Director and Head of Firethorn Living, commented: “With excellent connectivity in the heart of a thriving student community, which has been the focus of significant regeneration in recent years, Poland House is a high-quality addition to the Firethorn portfolio. “This acquisition reflects our ambition to deliver first class, energy efficient student accommodation in prime university locations, as demand for modern living spaces continues to outstrip supply. We are extremely well capitalised and actively seeking further opportunities in the Living market this year, including more PBSA and co-living sites in London and across the UK.” Situated on Stratford High Street, Poland House provides convenient access to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford High Street DLR Station and Stratford Station, and sits within a 15-minute walk of both University Arts London and UCL East. Work on site will commence later in 2025 with completion due for the 2028/2029 academic year. Charlie Oliver, Managing Director of Curlew Capital, commented: “Our team has worked hard to successfully secure a planning consent to deliver best in class sustainability credentials and an excellent living and learning environment for the students who will live here, creating much needed high-quality accommodation. Curlew Capital, Savills and CMS acted for the vendor, Walker Morris acted for Firethorn Trust. For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will present its draft masterplan for Bristol’s Western Harbour on Monday 10thFebruary, setting out detailed proposals for the city’s western gateway. Western Harbour is one of the most iconic places in the UK with supreme views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge and its spectacular harbour infrastructure dominated by three huge, listed Bonded warehouses. Following Monday’s briefing with key community representatives and local councillors, there will be a period of public engagement from 11th February to 9th March 2025 to gather views and feedback. Alex Lifschutz, Founding Director of Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands says: “We are tremendously excited about the future of this amazing place and the next chapter in its rich history. Within the development area just next to the vibrant communities of Hotwells and Southville are incredible engineering artefacts – historic dock gates, the double decker Ashton Avenue Bridge, Plimsoll and Junction swing bridges, Brunel’s lock and Swivel Bridge. We want to make the area more accessible and enjoyable for those taking a leisurely stroll and for commuters or cyclists. We will vastly improve the green open space and waterside walks, planting hundreds of trees and improving ecology, at the same time installing flood defences to protect against the effects of climate change. This plan builds on the assets of Western Harbour and surrounding communities creating a dynamic place that will encourage movement through beautiful landscapes.” The masterplan proposes between 750 and 1200 new homes addressing Bristol’s acute housing need. A single tree lined road will replace the tangle of ramps and routes that cover much of the 33-hectare area at the westernmost end of Bristol’s Floating Harbour – removing the equivalent of 5 football pitches of tarmac. Under and around the new homes there will be community and cultural spaces, workplaces, independent shops and restaurants. The Bond warehouses will be upgraded and repurposed as improved Bristol archives open to the public and as loft homes. Pedestrian and cycle routes and greenspaces between the buildings will transform the area from a car dominated to people friendly place. Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “We’ve listened to feedback and have adjusted our proposals for Western Harbour based on how people felt about the initial ideas shared back in the autumn. “We’re delighted to be able to retain Riverside Garden Centre in its current location and look forward to continuing our work with them to develop plans for how the garden centre will look in the future. “Ashton Meadows will remain a green open space linking Greville Smyth Park to the river and to the recreational spaces of Ashton Court and Leigh Woods beyond. The masterplan also sets out proposals to restore the wonderful heritage buildings of Western Harbour for public and residential use. Councillor Dyer said: “The Grade II-listed bonded warehouses, with refurbished and repurposed interiors, remain the dominant features of the skyline to the west of the city.” Councillor Andrew Brown, Chair of the Economy and Skills Committee and Harbour Committee, said: “By bringing together the well-established assets, heritage and communities in the area with a mix of new shops, cafés, cultural uses, creative workspaces and homes we can create a vibrant and sustainable neighbourhood.’’ Visit www.harbourhopes.co.uk for full details. The Western Harbour project is funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority through the Investment Fund, administered by the Mayoral Combined Authority. The Lifschutz Davidson masterplan team includes: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GRAHAM has been appointed to deliver stage two of the major Didcot and surrounding area infrastructure scheme (HIF1), which aims to tackle traffic congestion, improve travel times, and enhance connectivity in the region. The key elements of the GRAHAM project include the design of the Clifton Hampden Bypass and the Didcot to Culham River Crossing. The scheme is part of a broader effort to address growing traffic issues and support the economic development of the Science Vale area by facilitating smoother transportation links and creating new jobs. Detailed design work is currently underway, with construction expected to begin in early 2026. The project, which has received strong backing due to its potential to improve local infrastructure, is designed to meet the demands of a rapidly developing region. Andrew Henry, GRAHAM Contracts Director said: “GRAHAM has been working closely with Oxfordshire County Council and key stakeholders since April 2023 through Early Contractor Involvement (ECI). “This collaborative approach has enabled us to develop the detailed design for these significant infrastructure projects while actively engaging with third-party stakeholders such as Thames Water and Openreach to coordinate necessary utility diversions”. “As we deliver this transformative project, we will focus on working closely with the local community to create a lasting impact that benefits everyone.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Henry Brothers has successfully completed the construction of an £11 million welfare hub at the Army Training Centre Pirbright in Surrey, England. The Soldiers’ Centre at Alexander Barracks brings existing retail and wellbeing services across the site into a single location, enhancing the training experience for recruits while modernising the facility. The building’s construction incorporates a Glulam structural frame and photovoltaic panels for on-site renewable energy generation and is expected to achieve an ‘Excellent’ rating under the Defence Related Environmental Assessment Methodology (DREAM). The investment was joint-funded by the British Army and the Army Central Fund (ACF) which provided a £7m grant – the single biggest donation ever made by the ACF. David Henry, Managing Director at Henry Brothers, said: “With extensive experience in the defence sector, Henry Brothers is delighted to have completed The Soldiers’ Centre – a facility that reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional builds for our clients. “In line with our sustainable values, The Soldiers’ Centre is fit for future purpose, built with eco-friendly construction methods that contribute to the Government’s commitment to Net Zero. “We are pleased to further build on our existing relationship with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, helping it make a significant and positive contribution to the experience of recruits as they embark on their Army careers.” Measuring approximately 2000m2 over two storeys, The Soldiers’ Centre design was delivered by CPMG Architects and supports The Soldier Academy, which delivers the 13-week Basic Training course to every soldier. Chris White, Director at CPMG Architects, said: “The Soldiers’ Centre is a result of the excellent relationship between CPMG and Henry Brothers, as well as our combined experience in the UK defence industry. We’re proud to demonstrate that affordable sustainability is possible, without comprising on quality design and delivery. “It is a significant project, delivered from our London studio, and will undoubtedly be appreciated by the new Army recruits who can now access retail and wellbeing services under one roof.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rents for prime office space* across the globe rose by 0.3% and fit out costs by 0.2% in the final quarter of 2024, says Savills, as demand for top quality office space continues to grow in many markets around the world. According to Savills in its latest quarterly Prime Office Costs report, in the fourth quarter of last year, average net effective costs rose slightly, by 0.1%, continuing a moderate upwards trend of 1.9% over 2024. London (West End), Hong Kong, and New York (Midtown) remain the top three locations in terms of costs of the 35 markets Savills examines. Savills says that several markets saw significant cost changes last quarter, notably Dubai and Los Angeles, which witnessed a 7% and 5% net effective cost to occupier growth, respectively, supported by strong demand. EMEA saw some cost increases last quarter, with 0.7% growthin net effective costs to occupiers. The 7% increase in Dubai is the largest of any market and the result of significant rental growth driven by constrained supply at the top end of the market combined with a growing number of new entrants seeking premium space. In Asia Pacific, net effective costs saw a decline of 1% in Q4 2024. China prime offices saw a fall of 2.6% while Sydney and Melbourne, at the other end of the spectrum, saw costs grow by 1.7% and 1.6%, respectively, as a result of reduced landlord incentives in Sydney and rental growth in Melbourne. North America saw 0.7% net effective cost growth last quarter, matching the pace of growth in EMEA. Los Angeles Century City, in particular, saw strong rental growth, largely due to intense demand for space. In the office market overall – both prime and mainstream, Los Angeles saw the highest reported leasing volumes in any quarter since Q1 2020, a testament to the elevated demand in the market in 2024. Overall leasing activity increased by 18% in H2 compared to H1 2024, says Savills. In its complementary Market Makers report, which examines the top 10 prime office occupier deals by size in the same 35 cities, the international real estate advisor found that just over half (54%) of the deals examined were either new leases or expansions, reflecting positivity among major occupiers and the resilience of premium office space. Just over a third (33%) of the deals were for space of the same size, while 13% reflected downsizing. Globally, finance overtook tech as the number one industry for H2 2024 deals (figure 2) for both deal numbers and area transacted. Rick Schuham, CEO of Global Occupier Services at Savills, comments: “Ultra prime offices remain a key strategic asset for many businesses globally and almost all industries saw an increase in square footage transacted in H2 2024 compared to the first half of last year. In 2025, we expect continued rent and leasing volume growth as the net effect cost growth we have seen across the world over the past year is set to continue for the foreseeable future.” Sarah Brooks, Associate Director in Savills World Research team, says: “Even with the darkest clouds seemingly behind us, fiscal and economic concerns will likely remain a top concern for businesses globally. Demographic and behavioural trends will also continue to drive activity in the prime office sector, as firms continue to compete for talent. This competition drives both site and city selection for global businesses and will remain a top priority for 2025.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
TPG Angelo Gordon has teamed up with developer Hollybrook to invest in the UK’s student accommodation sector, with initial developments valued at £200m (€240m). The partnership’s first projects include a 271-bed student housing scheme in Wimbledon, currently under construction by Hollybrook and set for completion ahead of the 2026/27 academic year. A second 300-bed development in London is also in the pipeline, with acquisition plans underway. Designed to acquire, develop, and manage purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), the joint venture has an ambitious pipeline spanning both operational assets and development sites. The partners aim to secure planning permission for over 1,000 student beds by 2025. Valerie Cox, Director at Hollybrook, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with such a respected partner in TPG Angelo Gordon and look forward to acquiring a significant number of PBSA development sites in the coming years. The demand for high-quality student accommodation is clear, and we’re pleased that TPG Angelo Gordon shares our vision in this space.” John Parsons, VP at TPG Angelo Gordon, added: “We’re excited to complete the first in a series of transactions with our new student accommodation partner, Hollybrook. This venture aligns with our strategy of targeting supply-constrained student locations across the UK, catering to both domestic and international student demand.” With student accommodation in high demand and supply limited in key university cities, this partnership is set to play a crucial role in addressing the UK’s student housing shortfall. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Grayson is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Oaklands College for the inaugural Masonry Mentors 2025 event, a groundbreaking bricklaying pilot designed to inspire and develop the next generation of construction talent. Co-developed by Grayson and Oaklands College, the concept was conceived by FE legend Bob Noseda, with support from brickwork training icon Peter Roberts and Construction Curriculum Manager, Andy Rosser. The event is set to take place on Monday 10th February 2025 at Oaklands College in Hertfordshire, fittingly coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week 2025. Pairing full-time students with experienced bricklayer mentors from some of the UK’s leading brickwork subcontractors, teams will participate in a 6-hour challenge, with each member completing 50% of the task. Afterward, they will answer a series of trade-related questions, testing both their practical and theoretical knowledge. Masonry Mentors aims to inspire and equip young apprentices with the skills, confidence and passion to succeed in the industry, ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of the sector’s workforce. Kevin Jagg, Grayson’s Operations Director, says: “We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with Oaklands College to lead the first Masonry Mentors event. It not only showcases the incredible talent within our industry but also highlights the importance of mentorship and partnership in shaping the future of bricklaying. Ensuring vital skills and knowledge are passed on to the next generation, events like this are crucial in addressing the skills shortage and building a strong, sustainable future for the construction sector.” Bob Noseda, Sector Skills Advisor, adds: “From the moment I approached Tony and Kevin, Grayson has been phenomenal. Masonry Mentors is a new competition concept that pairs full-time students and qualified bricklayers, bringing education and industry together to address the skills shortage.” By investing in initiatives like Masonry Mentors, Grayson is playing an integral role in fostering excellence within the sector and helping to bridge the gap between education and real-world experience. Masonry Mentors 2025 marks the exciting start of what Bob Noseda envisions as a lasting tradition, one that will continually bring together apprentices and experienced time-served tradespeople in a fun, dynamic and educational environment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
