Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling
MRI Software, a global leader in real estate solutions and services, has released its latest Voice of the Property Manager report for the EMEA region. The findings reveal key insights into AI adoption, technology satisfaction, and training priorities that will impact the sector’s future. Ongoing economic pressures, regulatory changes, and
Balfour Beatty today announces that it has commenced construction on the new Nairn Academy school, having been awarded the £61 million contract by The Highland Council at the end of 2025. The company will be responsible for the design and construction of the new 9,767 square meter school and new 3G
Leading national builders’ merchant Jewson has opened the doors to its first sustainability centre within its newly refurbished branch in Cringleford, Norwich. The sustainability centre contains a dedicated Building for the Future product range, including everything tradespeople and builders need to comply with the upcoming Future Homes Standard, such as
GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent hire company, has launched its new Hoist Services Brochure, showcasing an expanded range of lifting solutions designed to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity on construction sites. With demand for reliable hoisting solutions at an all-time high, GAP has strengthened its offering with a
Plumbing and Heating Federation warns funding delays and high electricity costs are stalling Scotland’s decarbonisation progress The Plumbing and Heating Federation has raised concerns over the slow pace of heat pump installations following newly released Freedom of Information figures. Data from the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan Scheme
A specialist school in Salford has unveiled plans for a £7.5m expansion scheme to meet growing demand. The project will enable Aim Habonim Special Educational Needs School in Broughton to increase pupil numbers from 75 to 125. It will involve creating a three-storey extension, which will more than double the
Selective Licensing is one way that cities can drive up standards in privately rented properties – a key priority for Manchester City Council. Since 2017, more than 3,500 homes across the city have been fully licensed making sure that those homes are safer and better managed for the tenants living
Small and medium sized businesses from across Greater Manchester and Cheshire will have the opportunity to connect with key prospective clients at Manchester Airport’s annual Meet the Buyers event next month. More than 300 attendees representing over 150 companies are expected to be at the event on Thursday 13 March,
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling enhanced logistics and operational capabilities. The new facility was designed in close collaboration with Tesco to meet the company’s specific operational needs. It features a 300,000 sq ft chilled section, a 100,000 sq ft freezer area, and extensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support Tesco’s transition to an electric HGV fleet. The state-of-the-art buildings will play a crucial role in Tesco’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of its supply chain and bolster its capacity to meet customer demand, integrating advanced technologies to optimise logistics operations while supporting sustainability initiatives. This landmark project marks a major milestone in delivering sustainable logistics infrastructure and driving significant economic growth in the region. The facility is expected to support Tesco’s operations while contributing to the local economy and generating new jobs. Panattoni’s focus on sustainability is illustrated by achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification and EPC ‘A’ rating on Tesco’s. Tony Watkins, Head of Development: South East & London at Panattoni said: “The 621,000 sq ft facility is the culmination of our vision for the project to deliver cutting-edge operational capabilities for Tesco, creating jobs and generating benefits for Kent. This facility will also bring amenities such as retail, dining, and services, while driving investment in logistics and local businesses. “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This development showcases our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration with tenants such as Tesco, the local community, and stakeholders. Together, we have delivered a facility that sets a new benchmark for modern logistics.” Stuart Moffat, Head of Development – Distribution at Tesco said: “We have worked with Panattoni over the past few years to develop a bespoke facility that meets our operational needs while supporting our distribution and sustainability goals. Panattoni has proven to be such an efficient and proactive developer, and a fantastic partner in delivering this project at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This built-to-suit facility is particularly vital for us, incorporating cutting-edge ESG features, including 90,000 sq metres of solar panels and EV charging infrastructure that we have invested in to support our vehicles and staff.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MRI Software, a global leader in real estate solutions and services, has released its latest Voice of the Property Manager report for the EMEA region. The findings reveal key insights into AI adoption, technology satisfaction, and training priorities that will impact the sector’s future. Ongoing economic pressures, regulatory changes, and shifting tenant and owner expectations have tightened profit margins and created challenges for property management professionals, highlighting the need for operational efficiencies. “Property managers work long hours to navigate ongoing economic pressures, regulatory changes, and shifting tenant and owner expectations,” said Marcus Scholes, Managing Director, EMEA Commercial Property Management Solutions[MM2] [CJ3] [JM4] at MRI Software. “AI-powered technology offers unprecedented opportunities to address these challenges through increased automation, efficiency, and insights.” Key findings from the EMEA Voice of the Property Manager report: “The Voice of the Property Manager survey paints a picture of a committed and resilient group of professionals who are ready to tackle the challenges ahead,” concluded Scholes. “While many are investing in new technology and training, there is still further opportunity for efficiency and optimisation—particularly in leveraging AI and ensuring better system integration. As the industry evolves, property managers must stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive.” To watch the webinar recording and pre-register for the report, visit https://www.mrisoftware.com/uk/resources/voice-of-the-property-manager/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Balfour Beatty today announces that it has commenced construction on the new Nairn Academy school, having been awarded the £61 million contract by The Highland Council at the end of 2025. The company will be responsible for the design and construction of the new 9,767 square meter school and new 3G artificial grass sports pitch, which will replace the existing Nairn Academy secondary school and accommodate 745 students. The school will become Balfour Beatty’s second Passivhaus certified school building in Scotland – a quality assurance certification for the design and construction of low energy buildings – having been awarded the contract to design and build a new campus for Liberton High School in Edinburgh. To achieve Passivhaus certification, Balfour Beatty will install high-performance windows and doors as well as mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to reduce carbon emissions, improve indoor air quality and reduce energy demand. In addition, as part of its commitment to leaving a lasting, positive legacy in the communities in which it operates, Balfour Beatty is working with the Construction Industry Training Board and Inverness College UHI – a partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands – to create ten new apprenticeships positions for local young people. Hector MacAulay MBE, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s regional business in Scotland said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to deliver this latest new school, further enhancing our legacy in delivering state-of-the-art, sustainable educational facilities across Scotland. “With works now underway, we are working closely and collaboratively with the Highland Council to successfully deliver this new school which will provide an exciting and inspirational learning environment for hundreds of students and teachers, serving both current and future generations.” Works commenced at the start of 2025 and the campus is expected to be complete in 2026. At construction peak, the project will employ 170 people. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading national builders’ merchant Jewson has opened the doors to its first sustainability centre within its newly refurbished branch in Cringleford, Norwich. The sustainability centre contains a dedicated Building for the Future product range, including everything tradespeople and builders need to comply with the upcoming Future Homes Standard, such as low-carbon materials, energy efficient systems and renewable energy solutions. As well as an expanded product range covering over 1,500 SKUs from more than 30 suppliers, the Cringleford branch has dedicated sustainability ambassadors who can provide resources, training and expertise on a range of sustainability topics. The launch presents another significant milestone on its transformation journey to bring the UK’s hard-working professional tradespeople what they need to grow their own businesses and to become the leading builders’ merchant in the UK. As part of its parent company STARK Building Materials UK’s ‘Trust in Better’ strategy, Jewson is implementing a comprehensive investment programme to optimise its branch network across the nation, including major refurbishment projects and investments in sustainability centres, such as the Cringleford branch. Matthew Handley, Category Innovation Manager at Jewson, says: “We know sustainability can be a daunting topic for many of our customers, but it also presents an opportunity to upskill and work towards a greener future for the industry. We’re making it easy for customers to meet requirements such as the Future Homes Standard, by offering a wide range of products and by sharing our own knowledge. “Our in-house sustainability ambassadors have been specially trained to guide our customers through everything, from material selection to installation advice. We are also partnering with our suppliers to deliver expert-led sessions and practical workshops from the sustainability centre, helping our customers to build sustainably, with confidence.” Connor Laskey, Branch Manager at Jewson, says: “I’m proud to be launching Jewson’s first sustainability centre from the Cringleford branch, bringing the region’s builders everything they need for a greener future, right here in Norwich. I’m looking forward to welcoming local tradespeople, businesses and partners to the new-look branch, where our expert team is on hand to talk through the latest products and services for a more sustainable future.” The sustainability centre is open now at Newmarket Road, Cringleford, Norwich, from 7am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 12pm on a Saturday. Jewson’s Building for the Future product range – formerly known as the Making Better Homes range – is also available nationwide via www.jewson.co.uk/building-for-the-future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GAP Hire Solutions, the UK’s largest independent hire company, has launched its new Hoist Services Brochure, showcasing an expanded range of lifting solutions designed to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity on construction sites. With demand for reliable hoisting solutions at an all-time high, GAP has strengthened its offering with a comprehensive selection of GEDA construction hoists capable of lifting up to two tonnes or transporting up to seven people. These high-performance hoists provide construction teams with the power, precision, and reliability needed for modern projects, ensuring seamless vertical transportation while reducing downtime and enhancing site safety. GAP’s specialist hoisting division operates nationwide, providing full installation, maintenance, and expert support to meet the varied demands of construction sites across the UK. Karen Greenshields, Managing Director – Technical and Environmental Services, commented, “This is another exciting development for GAP Hire Solutions. We own more than 100 of our depots nationally and remain family-owned. This allows us to plan for the long term with the flexibility to continue to diversify and meet our customers’ demands, which is unique in our industry. Hoist Services is the latest example of GAP’s commitment to investment in people, premises and products. We have been delivering lifting and up to 850kg hoisting solutions for over 10 years, so bringing a fleet of new Goods and Passenger Hoists up to 2T into the market is exciting for both our customers and our expanding Hoist Services Team.” Explore GAP’s brand-new Hoist Services Brochure here. For more details, contact GAP on 03330 094 096 or email hoist.services@gap-group.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plumbing and Heating Federation warns funding delays and high electricity costs are stalling Scotland’s decarbonisation progress The Plumbing and Heating Federation has raised concerns over the slow pace of heat pump installations following newly released Freedom of Information figures. Data from the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan Scheme and the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Loan Scheme reveal that fewer than 9,000 heat pumps have been installed since 2019. Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of the Plumbing and Heating Federation, said: “While it is encouraging to see growing numbers of homeowners and landlords making the switch to clean heating solutions, the Scottish Government’s ambition of over one million homes converted to low or zero-emission heat by 2030 is simply not achievable under current conditions. The data highlights the urgent need for clearer policy direction, greater financial certainty and stronger industry support.” Financial strain on installers must be addressed The Federation has also raised serious concerns over the Home Energy Scotland scheme’s payment structure, which places a heavy financial burden on installers. Many installers must absorb substantial upfront costs, leading to cash-flow pressures and administrative challenges that threaten business sustainability. “Installers are at the heart of Scotland’s green heating transition, but they need a stable, transparent funding framework to remain viable. Addressing cash-flow pressures and streamlining payments is critical to scaling up heat pump adoption at the pace required.”, said Hodgson She added: “Today’s CBI report highlights the significant economic benefits of investing in the net zero economy. In Scotland alone, the sector contributes £9.1 billion, 4.9% of the country’s total GV, and supports nearly one in 25 Scottish workers. However, the financial strain of this transition cannot fall solely on already stretched businesses, especially as they face mounting pressures, including the upcoming National Insurance hike.” ‘Spark gap’ must be closed to drive consumer uptake and confidence Beyond funding and administrative hurdles, the Federation is calling for urgent action on the wider policy challenge of energy pricing. The significant disparity, known as the ‘spark gap’, between electricity and gas costs remains a major barrier to heat pump adoption. Fiona Hodgson, concluded: “Even with various funding schemes, the fundamental cost imbalance between electricity and fossil-fuel heating remains a deterrent for households. Closing the spark gap will require close coordination between Westminster and the devolved administrations. “Only by working together can we provide the financial incentives and market certainty needed to boost consumer confidence and achieve Scotland’s net-zero targets.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A specialist school in Salford has unveiled plans for a £7.5m expansion scheme to meet growing demand. The project will enable Aim Habonim Special Educational Needs School in Broughton to increase pupil numbers from 75 to 125. It will involve creating a three-storey extension, which will more than double the school’s floor space from 1,500sq metres to 3,400sq metres, alongside a remodelling and refurbishment of the existing building. Aim Habonim is an independent specialist day school which caters for Jewish children and young adults aged four to 25 who are severely disabled or have profound and multiple learning difficulties and autism. The school also offers childcare and early years provision. Planning permission has been granted by Salford City Council for the scheme, which school governors hope will begin next year. A large percentage of the cost has been raised and fundraising efforts are continuing to enable the project to be completed. The school was established on the site on Rigby Street in 2012. The current building is the former Broughton Library. David Leaman, chairman of governors, said Aim Habonim has outgrown its existing premises and has bought vacant neighbouring land to develop its facilities across the two plots and provide room for future growth. He said: “We currently have insufficient space to cater for growing demand in the community to meet the needs of children whose requirements cannot be met by mainstream schooling. “Our new, purpose-built modern facility will increase the number of our teaching and therapy spaces and will include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms, provision for physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, oxygen therapy, a gym, quiet rooms, one-to-one reading rooms and music rooms, with the goal of helping the children with their physical and mental development and to maximise their potential. “There will also be greatly improved staff facilities and support spaces, including a new reception area, staff rooms, meeting spaces, dining and food preparation facilities where pupils can learn about healthy food and culinary skills, and a school hall. “The expansion and refurbishment of the school will greatly enhance the delivery of education and therapy for the pupils, and some of the facilities will be offered for community use, outside of school hours.” The new extension will be developed in phase one of the scheme. It will be built in red brickwork and the façade will feature colours and patterns in keeping with the natural colours and textures of nearby Kersal Wetlands and Kersal Dale. Phase two will involve the refurbishment of the existing building and a new single-storey extension, plus external works such as landscaping, the creation of play spaces and a sensory garden, a nature garden and tree planting. The expanded site will also feature additional parking spaces, a bus drop-off area and a covered zone for cycle stands. Hawkins\Brown is the architect for the scheme, and the team of professionals also includes Civitas Planning, C4 Projects, Curtins and Waterman Group. Mr Leaman added: “The dedicated new premises and refurbishment are going to transform the performance and landscape of special needs education and care in the community. “The school has set sterling standards and this project will enable us to set the bar even higher and be of even greater benefit to our precious children.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Selective Licensing is one way that cities can drive up standards in privately rented properties – a key priority for Manchester City Council. Since 2017, more than 3,500 homes across the city have been fully licensed making sure that those homes are safer and better managed for the tenants living in the properties. Now, from this week (week commencing 24 Feburary) the owners and managing agents of 1,863 more flats and houses will be required to be apply for a landlord licence that will make sure these homes meet the necessary safety requirements, have the correct gas and electrical safety certification, and that they can demonstrate good management standards. Currently, private sector homes have fewer regulations protecting residents and Selective Licensing provides Councils to require landlords of all private rented properties to obtain a license in a particular area and is intended to address the impact of poor-quality housing. Following public consultation, licensing can be introduced if an area is experiencing significant and persistent problems caused by antisocial behaviour (including environmental and waste management issues), poor property conditions, high levels of migration, high levels of deprivation, high levels of crime, low housing demand – or is likely to become such an area. For the latest designated licensing areas, the Council has specifically targeted homes on the basis of property condition and antisocial behaviour linked to waste management problems. The new licensing schemes across six Manchester wards, include: Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said: “We know that there are currently fewer regulations and therefore less protection against poor housing in the private sector than other forms of rental homes – such as social rent properties. This means that there a minority of landlords who we have found do not take the responsibility for their property, the safety of their tenants, nor the impact of their property on the wider community seriously enough. “This is by no means every landlord and most work hard to make sure the properties they let are safe and of a good standard. But Selective Licensing is one of the ways we can hold landlords that don’t to account and drive up standards for our residents. “We believe that everyone in Manchester deserves a safe and secure home. This is a basic right and through Selective Licensing we can work directly with landlords and their tenants to make sure this is their reality. “And we are seeing the impact of our interventions, and more than 3,550 homes have already been licensed, removing 1,700 hazards from Manchester’s private sector homes that would otherwise still be a blight on tenants in the city.” Impact of previous licensing schemes Enforcement Action on non-compliant landlords Enforcement action has been undertaken where necessary to target landlords who have failed to comply with the licensing scheme and notices to improve property conditions. So far, these include: Find out more about Selective Licensing Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Small and medium sized businesses from across Greater Manchester and Cheshire will have the opportunity to connect with key prospective clients at Manchester Airport’s annual Meet the Buyers event next month. More than 300 attendees representing over 150 companies are expected to be at the event on Thursday 13 March, including procurement teams from major names in the aviation, hospitality and construction industries like Manchester Airports Group (MAG), Holiday Inn & ibis budget, Bethell, Arup, and AmcoGiffen. Meet the Buyers will once again be hosted at Manchester Airport’s Runway Visitor Park. Last year’s event at the same venue saw more than £6m-worth of deals struck and organisers are hoping to see a similar windfall for local businesses this year. A waiting list is currently in operation for prospective suppliers, who will get guaranteed face-to-face time with buyers’ procurement teams as part of the organised event schedule. Guest speakers and a range of workshops and presentations are scheduled throughout the day, parallel to the exhibition in the Runway Visitor Park’s main hangar. These include talks and interactive workshops delivered by representatives from MAG and Manchester City Council. Marcella M’Rabety – Group Head of Social Sustainability, Manchester Airport says… Our Meet the Buyers event is back by popular demand this year, following the success of last year’s event. We know how much small and medium sized businesses from across our region value the opportunity to meet face -to-face with large prospective purchasers, including Manchester Airport. We are very proud of our role as a key economic enabler, not just for Greater Manchester but the wider region, and this event is an important part of how we achieve that.” Councillor John Hacking – Executive Member for Employment, Skills and Leisure, Manchester City Council – says… “Manchester City Council is delighted to support the successful Manchester Airport Meet the Buyers event. This event is more than just a commercial opportunity; it’s a vital platform for fostering community connections and empowering local businesses, including SMEs. “By facilitating meaningful interactions between Manchester-based businesses and a diverse range of suppliers, the event helps to strengthen the local economy and promote inclusive growth. It’s a key part of our City’s Economic Strategy – Investing in Success, ensuring that the benefits of economic development are felt by all members of our community.” Interested parties can register here: https://www.manchestermtb.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
