Lidl is ramping up its UK expansion with nine new store openings within a month, marking a strong start to 2025. Most of the new locations will open their doors in February as the retailer continues to grow its presence nationwide. New stores are set to launch in Canning Town,
Wates has submitted a planning application for a new development of temporary modular homes at Waterloo and Queen Street, marking a significant step forward in addressing the urgent housing needs in Havering. The project is part of Wates’ ongoing 12-year Joint Venture partnership with the London Borough of Havering, aimed
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has announced that it has awarded the Contract for Phase 2 of construction works on its £100m regeneration project to Farrans Construction, as it continues to transform its terminal facilities to dramatically improve the passenger experience and help unlock economic growth for the region. With the
Developer Regal has successfully secured a £115 million development loan from specialist finance provider Maslow Capital. The loan will fund the construction of a 264-bed Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) project, alongside 30 affordable residential units and nearly 9,000 square feet of commercial space, all located in the heart of Camden,
Workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors has completed a full interior design and fit out for Inizio’s new office in Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Inizio, a global market-leading commercialization partner that specialises in healthcare, was formed in 2022 out of the combination of Ashfield Health and Huntsworth, under private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
The report from the National Retrofit Hub, developed in partnership with Impact on Urban Health, exposes the urgent need to improve energy efficiency in the private rental sector (PRS). With 4.5 million households renting privately in England[1] and a shocking 1 in 4 renters living in fuel poverty[2], the report
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, alongside Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook, has met with top construction CEOs to discuss how planning reforms can drive industry growth and investment. During the discussions, the Business Secretary emphasised the crucial role of planning and construction in the Government’s economic strategy. Industry leaders from real estate,
The trend of enclosing existing decks has gained momentum among homeowners seeking to maximize their outdoor living spaces. According to AAA Fence and Deck, a leading deck builder in Chapel Hill NC, proper planning and material selection is vital for successful deck enclosure projects that can withstand local weather conditions while
The top provider of CoCr alloys in Europe is Stainless France, which offers superior quality products across the board. Their alloy is relevant for medical implants, aerospace, and high-performance engineering. Stainless France offers top-notch CoCr alloy grades compared to anyone else. Reasons Why CoCr Alloy Unique? There are many reasons
Lidl is ramping up its UK expansion with nine new store openings within a month, marking a strong start to 2025. Most of the new locations will open their doors in February as the retailer continues to grow its presence nationwide. New stores are set to launch in Canning Town, Preston, Walsall, and Wombourne, while larger, upgraded stores will reopen in Blantyre, Cwmbran, Oldbrook, Wells, and West Ealing. These follow Lidl’s first store opening of the year in Northampton and a successful run of 10 new stores in the lead-up to Christmas. Richard Taylor, Chief Development Officer at Lidl GB, said: “As we step into the new year, we’re keeping up the momentum with nine brand-new, state-of-the-art stores, bringing an enhanced shopping experience to new communities and those we’ve proudly served for an average of 26 years. After a record-breaking Christmas, where millions of households turned to Lidl, these openings highlight the ever-growing demand for our unbeatable value and quality. And this is just the beginning – we have even more store openings planned for 2025 and look forward to welcoming both loyal and new customers in the months ahead.” Lidl’s expansion comes on the back of its most successful Christmas yet, with nearly two million more shoppers choosing the discounter compared to previous years. Festive season sales surged by 7% year-on-year, surpassing £1 billion for the first time. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wates has submitted a planning application for a new development of temporary modular homes at Waterloo and Queen Street, marking a significant step forward in addressing the urgent housing needs in Havering. The project is part of Wates’ ongoing 12-year Joint Venture partnership with the London Borough of Havering, aimed at revitalising local communities and providing much-needed housing across the borough. The proposed development includes the installation of 18 modular homes, designed to provide high-quality temporary accommodation for families in need. The homes will be equipped with modern amenities and constructed to the highest standards of sustainability and energy efficiency. The proposals place a strong emphasis on design and place making, featuring entryways to the front of the homes that works with the local area and provide shade. Thoughtfully planned landscaping will enhance the site, creating a natural environment that encourages biodiversity and a sense of community. Whilst the original Phase 1 was paused due regulatory requirement to re-design with dual stair cores, the joint venture has proposed bringing forward the lower Blocks 9 and 10. These two blocks will be 100 percent affordable, which includes 66 social housing (London affordable rent) and 43 Shared Ownership homes. This will enable those who left the old Waterloo and Queen Street estate to make way for the regeneration to take place will be given the choice to return, with the remainder of the properties helping to reduce housing pressures for those with the greatest need. The joint venture aim to deliver all remaining phases ahead of the final phase, where the temporary modular homes will be located, in or around 2031/2. The modular homes could then be relocated to other areas of the borough where there is a need and suitable sites. Councillor Paul McGeary, Cabinet Member for Housing Property said: “This represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide suitable temporary housing solutions for homeless families in the borough. “The temporary modular homes are situated on the plot of land that forms part of the final construction phase and will provide safe and comfortable living environments for families currently living in hostels and hotels. Blocks 9 and 10, which will provide affordable housing for local people, will be the next phase to progress.” The planning application can be reviewed, and includes an opportunity for the public to share their views about the scheme. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) has announced that it has awarded the Contract for Phase 2 of construction works on its £100m regeneration project to Farrans Construction, as it continues to transform its terminal facilities to dramatically improve the passenger experience and help unlock economic growth for the region. With the terminal extension (Phase 1) due to handover in Summer 2025, the refurbishment of the existing terminal (Phase 2) of LBA: REGEN is expected to complete in Winter 2026, setting up an exciting period of development for the airport. Farrans is a leading building and civil engineering contractor which operates across the UK and Ireland. The company is already on-site completing Phase 1 of the project which involves the construction of the 9,500m2, three-storey terminal extension (pictured). Passengers will benefit from more seating, faster security, new shops and eateries, and a larger baggage reclaim area and immigration hall, as well as improved access for passengers with restricted mobility. In Phase 2, Farrans will be undertaking a full refurbishment of the existing terminal. Works will be delivered in multiple sub-phases to minimise disruption to customers and allow the airport to operate as close to normal as possible. Improvements include the creation of new staircases, lifts and escalators to provide an open plan feel which will complement the new lighter and brighter terminal extension. Remodelled internal spaces will allow improved passenger movement and there will be brand new security and arrivals facilities, World Duty Free and shops, bars and restaurants. By 2030, the regeneration has the potential to create 1,500 new direct jobs at LBA and 4,000 new indirect jobs, as well as contribute a total of £940 million to the local economy*. The regeneration will also help LBA to further decarbonise its operations, as outlined in the airport’s 2030 Net Zero Carbon Roadmap, with the installation of new all electric heating, lighting and machinery, including new baggage belts. It is expected that airlines attracted by the regeneration will accelerate the deployment of their newest, quietest and most efficient aircraft at the airport, in turn reducing the overall environmental impact of LBA’s operations. Vincent Hodder, Chief Executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Farrans on Phase 2 of our LBA: REGEN project. We’ve already created a strong working relationship with the team on Phase 1 and as we transition into Phase 2, we’re excited to be able to take our customers along with us on this journey. “It’s also an opportunity to let our customers know that while this important work gets underway, there will be temporary changes to the terminal while we deliver this new and improved customer experience. LBA: REGEN is the first major improvement to our terminal since its opening in 1968 and is long overdue. It’s vitally important to upgrade LBA to the world-class facility Yorkshire deserves.” Cathal Montague, Regional Director at Farrans Construction, said: “We are pleased to be continuing our strong working relationship with Leeds Bradford Airport as they progress with this important improvement project which will have long term benefits for this region. Our experience in the aviation sector has enabled us to work collaboratively with our client to ensure the airport’s operations have continued without disruption, and we will be putting in place similar plans as we move forwards into Phase 2. “Our team is fully invested in the complete delivery of this regeneration project and I am pleased that we will be remaining on site to see the work come to completion at the end of Phase 2. Leeds is an important region for our business, we are all frequent users of LBA and we are looking forward to working together with the airport’s team on the successful delivery of the next stage of the project.” This year, the airport is expected to contribute a total of £460 million to the local economy, directly employing 2,100 people and indirectly supporting 4,500 jobs. *data collected from York Aviation analysis. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developer Regal has successfully secured a £115 million development loan from specialist finance provider Maslow Capital. The loan will fund the construction of a 264-bed Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) project, alongside 30 affordable residential units and nearly 9,000 square feet of commercial space, all located in the heart of Camden, London. The development will be situated on Chalk Farm Road, a prime spot next to the iconic Grade II-listed Roundhouse. This strategic location places the project in one of London’s most vibrant and culturally rich districts, with a design that aims to enhance both student and residential living. The scheme will include four blocks, with heights reaching up to twelve storeys. Focusing on both student housing and affordable residential options, the development will feature cutting-edge amenities, such as an external study courtyard, breakout spaces, a gym, and dedicated study areas. With over 2.06 square metres of internal amenity space per room, the project is designed to cater to modern living standards. It also aims to achieve top-tier ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) certifications, including BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Platinum, and WiredScore Platinum. The Regal development, which received a loan from Maslow Capital, is strategically positioned for easy access to central London, with Chalk Farm Underground Station just a two-minute walk away. This provides direct links to major transport hubs like King’s Cross and Euston, along with several key university campuses across the city. The site is also close to Primrose Hill and Camden’s famous entertainment and cultural venues, making it an appealing location for both students and residents. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors has completed a full interior design and fit out for Inizio’s new office in Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Inizio, a global market-leading commercialization partner that specialises in healthcare, was formed in 2022 out of the combination of Ashfield Health and Huntsworth, under private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R). Ashfield Healthcare opened its first office in Ashby-de-la-Zouch back in 2002. Marking a new chapter for Inizio in the region and continued investment in people and communities across the UK, the company took the lease of Excelsior House on Excelsior Road, just off junction 13 of the M42. With 18,000 sq. ft. across two floors, Blueprint Interiors were briefed to create a workspace that integrated teams, enabled collaborative working, offered creative and flexible spaces, and a place Inizio could welcome clients. The space now includes areas for diverse working styles and activities, such as hot-desking areas for collaboration and interaction across teams and departments, private spaces for focused work and confidential conversations, and a state-of-the-art control for hybrid and virtual events. In line with the company’s core values, the project had clear sustainable goals. The building’s EPC A rating was maintained, existing furniture was repurposed, and recycled products made from ocean plastic were installed. Other features of the fit out included exposed ceiling designs, sustainable bespoke furniture pods and meeting rooms named after Ashby’s traditional trades, such as Smithy, Forge and Cooper. Kate Kelly, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Inizio Engage, said: “The new office has truly transformed how we work. It’s an engaging, sustainable space that brings our Inizio Engage teams together and adapts perfectly to our evolving needs. Every detail reflects our unique culture and values, creating an environment where our people want to spend time because they feel empowered to succeed.” Chloe Sproston, Creative Director at Blueprint Interiors, said: “Having worked with Ashfield Healthcare before it became Inizio, it was fantastic to be supporting them again on their impressive new office space. Just six minutes from our own HQ, the Inizio team were pleased to have sourced a local partner, echoing its sustainable and community focusses. “After immersing ourselves in the Inizio business and culture, we interviewed stakeholders to gain a view of the company’s aims and ambitions. With a clear sense of the project goals, we set to work to create a dynamic workspace that met the needs of the evolving business. “The space we designed brings people together and reflects the culture of the teams based out of the Ashby-de-la-Zouch location. With areas for different styles of working and socialising, alongside sustainable practices, Inizio has a workplace which enhances its wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and environmental policies.” As fit out designer, supplier and main contractor, Blueprint Interiors worked alongside Gleeds as project manager. Emma Wiggin, Director at Gleeds, said: “We were pleased to provide project management services on this exciting new space for Inizio. It was fantastic to work alongside them and other project partners to help achieve their ambitions for an office that truly serves their purpose. It was also great to lead on the delivery of a project that prioritised circularity, which aligns with Gleeds’ focus on sustainable practices in construction.” Blueprint Interiors follow the WELL Building Standard; a universally recognised benchmark which puts mental wellbeing and emotional health as key considerations when creating productive workplaces. The Standard helps organisations to optimise their workplaces around the health and wellbeing of their people, which allows teams to be their very best selves. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The report from the National Retrofit Hub, developed in partnership with Impact on Urban Health, exposes the urgent need to improve energy efficiency in the private rental sector (PRS). With 4.5 million households renting privately in England[1] and a shocking 1 in 4 renters living in fuel poverty[2], the report underscores the stark realities of a housing market failing its tenants and the environment. The report delivers a clear message: without immediate action, the PRS risks falling further behind other housing sectors, leaving millions of renters in cold, inefficient homes. This report explores these challenges and proposes a supported pathway to improved housing that considers the needs of both landlords and tenants Addressing poor living standards and fuel poverty Millions of renters in the private rental sector are living in substandard conditions, with poorly insulated homes leaving tenants exposed to the harsh realities of fuel poverty and inequality. Currently, 1 in 4 renters[3] in England struggle to afford their energy bills, a crisis exacerbated by rising costs and the inefficiency of older properties. Many tenants face daily challenges to keep their homes warm and healthy, while landlords often lack the necessary support to make significant improvements. “This situation highlights a systemic issue” commented Cara Holmes, National Retrofit Hub Technical Programme Manager. “The private rental sector risks falling behind other housing tenures, leaving renters trapped in a cycle of inadequate housing and energy insecurity. Tackling this problem requires a coordinated effort to raise standards, improve living conditions, and ensure fair outcomes for both tenants and landlords.” Supporting Landlords to Drive Energy Efficiency Improvements[CH1] The report highlights the practical challenges landlords face in balancing their financial goals with the need to improve their properties’ energy efficiency. Many landlords view their properties as long-term investments. As one landlord explained, “I got the property because it was the best investment compared to putting my money into a savings account.” While many are committed to maintaining their properties and complying with regulations, the report reveals that landlords often see regulations as a target to meet rather than an opportunity to exceed. “If I’ve had an EPC assessment on my property and it’s below the requirements, I’d want absolute clarity on what my options are to bridge the gap between where I am and where I need to be,” said another landlord. Financial barriers remain a significant hurdle for many. “I don’t have a mortgage, so extending it isn’t an option. The issue would be interest rates and over how many years,” one landlord noted. The findings underline the importance of providing landlords with practical, accessible solutions to retrofit their properties effectively, ensuring they can balance their investment goals with the urgent need for energy efficiency improvements. A call for bold action The report calls for immediate updates to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES), setting ambitious yet achievable targets to: However, raising standards alone is not enough. Landlords need a robust package of support to enable meaningful change, including: To ensure tenants are not left behind, the report also calls for stronger compliance and enforcement measures, including: Join the conversation and take action The National Retrofit Hub and Impact for Urban Health invite policymakers, landlords, and industry professionals view the report and take part in conversations about the future of energy efficiency in the private rental sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, alongside Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook, has met with top construction CEOs to discuss how planning reforms can drive industry growth and investment. During the discussions, the Business Secretary emphasised the crucial role of planning and construction in the Government’s economic strategy. Industry leaders from real estate, planning, construction, and infrastructure were invited to share insights on recent planning system reforms, ongoing barriers to growth, and how government intervention could unlock new opportunities. Jonathan Reynolds said: “Our construction sector is a cornerstone of the UK economy, supporting thousands of jobs and playing a key role in our Plan for Change as we push to get Britain building. With the stability of our upcoming Industrial Strategy, we’re committed to working closely with industry to ensure our reforms deliver real benefits to communities nationwide. Meetings like this are essential in identifying and addressing planning challenges to drive growth and investment.” The Government has already taken steps to accelerate planning approvals and stimulate growth, including the publication of an updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in December. This follows extensive industry engagement, with over 3,000 responses to its Industrial Strategy green paper consultation helping to shape future policy. Looking ahead, the Government will unveil a 10-year Infrastructure Strategy and the 2025 Spending Review, providing long-term certainty for investors and the construction supply chain. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The trend of enclosing existing decks has gained momentum among homeowners seeking to maximize their outdoor living spaces. According to AAA Fence and Deck, a leading deck builder in Chapel Hill NC, proper planning and material selection is vital for successful deck enclosure projects that can withstand local weather conditions while maintaining structural integrity. Creating an enclosed deck space requires careful consideration of multiple factors, from structural assessment to design choices. This transformation can add significant value to your property while providing a versatile space usable throughout all seasons. Structural Assessment Requirements Before beginning any enclosure project, evaluating your deck’s current structural capacity is crucial. The additional weight of walls, windows, and roofing materials demands a thorough inspection of the existing foundation and support system. Your deck’s foundation must be capable of supporting both dead loads (permanent structures) and live loads (people, furniture). This often requires reinforcing existing support posts and potentially adding new footings to handle the increased weight. Material Selection and Compatibility The choice of enclosure materials significantly impacts both functionality and aesthetics. Options range from traditional wood framing with windows to modern composite materials that offer superior weather resistance. Weather-resistant materials like vinyl and composite products provide long-term durability with minimal maintenance requirements. These materials must complement your home’s existing architecture while providing adequate insulation and protection. Design Integration Strategies The enclosure design should flow seamlessly with your home’s existing architecture. This includes matching roof lines, window styles, and exterior finishes to create a cohesive look. Consider incorporating elements like large windows or sliding glass doors to maintain an open feel while providing protection from the elements. The design should maximize natural light while maintaining privacy and comfort. Climate Control Considerations Adding heating and cooling systems transforms your enclosed deck into a true year-round space. This requires careful planning for insulation, ventilation, and temperature control. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and maintains air quality. Consider installing ceiling fans, windows that open, and adequate insulation to regulate temperature effectively throughout the year. Lighting and Electrical Planning Electrical planning must account for both functional and ambient lighting needs. This includes installing weather-protected outlets, switches, and appropriate fixtures. Consider incorporating both natural and artificial light sources. Task lighting for specific areas combines with ambient lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere at any time of day. Privacy Solutions Creating privacy within your enclosed deck requires thoughtful planning. Various options include frosted glass, strategic window placement, or decorative screens. The balance between privacy and openness affects both the functionality and comfort of your space. Consider incorporating adjustable solutions like blinds or shutters that allow flexibility in controlling visibility. Moisture Management Systems Proper moisture control protects your enclosed deck from water damage and extends its lifespan. This includes appropriate flashing, waterproof membranes, and adequate drainage systems. Installing proper vapor barriers and ensuring good airflow prevents condensation and mold growth. The roofing system must direct water away from the structure effectively. Permit and Code Compliance Local building codes dictate specific requirements for enclosed structures. Understanding and following these regulations ensures safety and legal compliance. Working with local authorities to obtain necessary permits prevents future complications. This includes meeting requirements for emergency exits, structural support, and electrical systems. Seasonal Adaptability Features Incorporating features that allow adaptation to different seasons maximizes the space’s utility. Retractable screens, adjustable ventilation, and climate control systems provide year-round comfort. Consider adding features like removable panels or adjustable windows that allow you to modify the space based on weather conditions and seasonal needs. Cost and Value Considerations The investment in enclosing a deck varies based on materials, design complexity, and local labor costs. However, this addition typically increases property value and provides year-round usable space. Consider both immediate costs and long-term maintenance requirements when planning your project. Quality materials and proper installation often prove more economical over time. Final Thoughts Enclosing your deck creates a versatile living space that bridges indoor and outdoor environments. The success of such a project relies on thorough planning, quality materials, and professional execution. For homeowners considering this transformation, consulting with a professional deck contractor ensures proper assessment of structural requirements and compliance with local building codes. Their expertise can help create a beautiful, functional space that adds value to your home while providing year-round enjoyment. Contact a local deck specialist today to discuss your vision for an enclosed deck space that meets your specific needs and preferences.
The top provider of CoCr alloys in Europe is Stainless France, which offers superior quality products across the board. Their alloy is relevant for medical implants, aerospace, and high-performance engineering. Stainless France offers top-notch CoCr alloy grades compared to anyone else. Reasons Why CoCr Alloy Unique? There are many reasons why this alloy is unique. Durable and Corrosion-resistant Cobalt Chrome alloys are a far better option because they are sturdy and highly resistant to wear. The alloy is highly resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for situations where metals generally degrade. In addition, CoCr is often mechanically stable at high temperatures. The processing approach is genuinely beneficial for industries such as aerospace and medicine, which require high-performance materials and can rely on them to last. Biocompatibility for Medical Applications One of the most notable properties is its biocompatibility with CoCr. It is more commonly used for medical implants such as hip and knee replacements. Experts now know how to integrate effectively. Also, the use of CoCr is widespread in dental prosthetics. It has proven to be wear and corrosion-resistant— the material has an extended lifespan that does not succumb to damage. Essential for Aerospace and Engineering Besides its medical uses, CoCr is also very important for aerospace and industrial engineering. Specifically, its high melting point and mechanical properties make it suitable for use in turbine blades, engine components, and high-stress mechanical parts. CoCr plays a very crucial role in the durability of components used in demanding applications. For it to last long, Stainless France’s CoCr alloys are used instead of inferior quality materials. Why Stainless France? Stainless France is the leading supplier of Cryolite materials in Europe. Unmatched Quality and Expertise The reputation of Stainless France is built on the quality of its CoCr alloys. Their expertise is what ensures clients receive materials that meet industry-specific standards. Their approach involves conducting thorough quality testing on all products before they are distributed. Reliable Supply Chain Across Europe CoCr alloys are delivered across Europe by Stainless France. They are reliable and will ensure smooth supply chains. Also, their robust network allows clients to receive the required materials without additional delays. Commitment to Innovation The demand for CoCr alloys is growing due to its superior quality. It is the reason why Stainless France keeps on developing and refining its products. They also collaborate with different sectors to identify specific prerequisites. This allows them to produce CoCr alloys that are specifically formulated for specific industries.’ Final Thoughts Choosing the right supplier for CoCr is essential, especially for industries that rely on precision and durability. Stainless France stands out as the top provider in Europe, offering superior quality, a reliable supply chain, and expert knowledge. Moreover, their commitment to excellence ensures that clients receive the best type of anchor for their specific applications. Instead of settling for lower-quality materials, businesses trust Stainless France to deliver the highest-grade CoCr alloys available.So, whether in the medical, aerospace, or industrial sectors, Stainless France is your go-to supplier for high-performance CoCr alloys. With their expertise and dedication, you can expect nothing but the best.
