Battery manufacturer Volklec has joined forces with Chinese firm Far East Battery (FEB) as part of its long-term ambition to establish a 10GWh gigafactory in Coventry by the end of the decade. The Coventry-based company has signed an exclusive licence agreement with FEB to support the production of advanced lithium-ion
Persimmon Homes Wessex has submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 624 new homes in the Grove and Wantage area, further expanding its Wellington Gate development. The proposed development, located to the north-west of Grove, will be adjacent to the existing Wellington Gate site. In addition
Wickes has secured four former Homebase locations as part of its ongoing expansion, following the DIY retailer’s collapse into administration last year. The newly acquired stores in Dunfermline, Bury St Edmunds, and Leeds Moor Allerton will reopen under the Wickes brand later this year. They join a Northampton site, acquired
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has indicated she is “minded to approve” Gatwick Airport’s £2.2bn expansion plans, subject to the development of noise mitigation measures. The airport has applied to bring its northern runway into regular use, currently restricted to acting as a taxiway or backup for the main runway. The
British Land has signed a host of high-profile fashion retailers, including Ralph Lauren, Mango, Luca Faloni, Hobbs, and Whistles, for its Broadgate Central development in the City of London. The 120,000 sq ft retail and hospitality hub spans the ground and lower ground floors of 1 Broadgate and 100 Liverpool
Castlemere Developments has officially broken ground on a new residential project consisting of six luxury four-bedroom townhouses in Dulwich. The Windsor-based developer, known for its portfolio of high-end properties across London, has started groundworks on the site of a former doctor’s surgery on Melbourne Grove. The project is expected to
A major housing development in South Wokingham has been approved, paving the way for 1,434 new homes, a primary school, public spaces, and a local centre. The project, a collaboration between Miller Homes and Kier Property, forms part of the South Wokingham Strategic Development Location (SWSDL) in Berkshire. Wokingham Borough
A highly innovative screed, proven to deliver a lower carbon footprint, has played a key role in a major construction project, helping reach new heights at Canary Wharf in London’s Docklands! The project involved the development of two high-rise residential towers, known as Buildings J1 and J3, reaching an impressive
The construction industry is undergoing one of the most exciting transformations of the 21st century. At the heart of this revolution? Data analytics. Long considered a “brick-and-mortar” field, construction is now leveraging cutting-edge technologies to predict trends, manage risks, and optimize processes. For construction professionals, understanding data analytics isn’t just
Battery manufacturer Volklec has joined forces with Chinese firm Far East Battery (FEB) as part of its long-term ambition to establish a 10GWh gigafactory in Coventry by the end of the decade. The Coventry-based company has signed an exclusive licence agreement with FEB to support the production of advanced lithium-ion batteries at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre, where manufacturing is set to begin later this year. Phil Popham, former chief executive of Lotus Cars and now executive director at Volklec, highlighted the importance of securing the UK’s battery supply chain. He said: “There is no greater transformation today than the electric revolution in transport and mobility. The British start-up scene is thriving, but there is a substantial gap in the supply chain. Our mission is to help these innovators thrive.” Volklec plans to invest over £1bn in the development of its gigafactory, with Coventry emerging as a potential location. The company is reportedly in discussions with Coventry City Council to take over the proposed gigafactory site at Coventry Airport, which has yet to secure an investor despite planning permission being granted three years ago. The West Midlands Combined Authority recently announced a £23m funding package to unlock the site’s potential, including the installation of a dedicated energy supply to support large-scale battery production. With permission set to expire in March, the council remains confident it will secure an extension for another two years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Persimmon Homes Wessex has submitted an outline planning application for the construction of up to 624 new homes in the Grove and Wantage area, further expanding its Wellington Gate development. The proposed development, located to the north-west of Grove, will be adjacent to the existing Wellington Gate site. In addition to new homes, the plans include infrastructure for community amenities, such as allotments, youth play areas, public open space, and the expansion of Grove Cemetery. The development also aims to enhance local education by expanding primary school facilities and introducing equipped play areas, creating a more family-friendly environment. The application, initially submitted in 2020, has been revised after extensive discussions with local authorities to better align with community priorities and needs. A key part of the proposal is the inclusion of 35% affordable and social housing, which will be transferred to a housing association partner. This initiative is designed to address the housing shortage in the Vale of White Horse District, where there is currently a waiting list of around 2,000 families. Further financial contributions from the developer to support local services will be determined during the application process. If approved, more detailed applications will follow. The five-star builder is also currently selling two, three, and four-bedroom homes at its existing Wellington Gate site, with prices starting from £284,995. Persimmon recently held a community consultation to gather input on the local hub planned for the new development. Seb Spiller, deputy managing director of Persimmon Homes Wessex, commented on the submission: “Persimmon is very proud of the progress we have made at Wellington Gate and are delighted that our presence is bringing infrastructure to the community and opening up the dream of home ownership to so many local people. “So, we are delighted to have submitted this outline application to bring hundreds of more high-quality, low-cost homes to Wantage and Grove, especially after working closely with the Vale of White Horse District Council and Grove Parish Council to make amendments to the plan.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wickes has secured four former Homebase locations as part of its ongoing expansion, following the DIY retailer’s collapse into administration last year. The newly acquired stores in Dunfermline, Bury St Edmunds, and Leeds Moor Allerton will reopen under the Wickes brand later this year. They join a Northampton site, acquired in July 2024, which is currently undergoing refurbishment. The acquisitions align with Wickes’ strategic growth plans, allowing the company to expand into new catchment areas while continuing its store opening programme. Wickes chief executive David Wood said, “We are delighted to be acquiring these former Homebase stores and welcoming all colleagues currently working there into the Wickes family. This move further strengthens our ambitious store expansion strategy, helping even more customers bring their home improvement projects to life.” Wickes is among several home improvement retailers capitalising on Homebase’s restructuring. B&Q has taken over eight former Homebase locations across the UK and Ireland, while new Homebase owner CDS Superstores—operator of The Range and Wilko—has committed to rebranding up to 70 stores. With these latest acquisitions, Wickes continues to reinforce its presence in the home improvement sector, bringing its product range and expertise to more communities nationwide. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has indicated she is “minded to approve” Gatwick Airport’s £2.2bn expansion plans, subject to the development of noise mitigation measures. The airport has applied to bring its northern runway into regular use, currently restricted to acting as a taxiway or backup for the main runway. The proposal includes shifting the northern runway’s centre line 12 metres north to enable dual runway operations while maintaining international safety standards. Plans also feature terminal extensions, a new aircraft parking pier, enhancements to an existing pier, and flyovers to separate local and airport traffic to ease congestion. The five-year project includes new passenger facilities, car parks, offices, and hotels. Gatwick submitted its application to the Planning Inspectorate in July 2023. Following a review, the Inspectorate presented its findings to the Department for Transport on 27 November 2024, with a deadline for a response set for 27 February 2025. In her statement, Alexander said: “I have issued a ‘minded to approve’ letter for Gatwick’s northern runway development consent order (DCO) under the Planning Act 2008. As the examining authority has recommended an alternative DCO with additional operational controls, I am allowing more time to seek views on these provisions before a final decision.” The final ruling has now been extended to 27 October 2025. London Gatwick chief executive Stewart Wingate welcomed the update, stating: “It is vital that any planning conditions allow us to confidently invest £2.2bn in this project and unlock the full benefits of bringing the northern runway into routine use. “This project will create 14,000 jobs and generate £1bn annually in economic benefits. By increasing capacity and resilience, we can strengthen the UK’s global connectivity and drive economic growth in the southeast and beyond. We remain committed to responsible growth, balancing passenger demand with minimising noise and environmental impact.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
British Land has signed a host of high-profile fashion retailers, including Ralph Lauren, Mango, Luca Faloni, Hobbs, and Whistles, for its Broadgate Central development in the City of London. The 120,000 sq ft retail and hospitality hub spans the ground and lower ground floors of 1 Broadgate and 100 Liverpool Street, creating a key link between Liverpool Street station and Finsbury Avenue Square. The wider 1 Broadgate scheme is set for completion later this year, with 96% of its office space already pre-let to JLL and A&O Shearman. British Land has had a strong start to the year, securing or placing under offer 200,000 sq ft of space across its Broadgate portfolio, including at 155 Bishopsgate, Broadgate Tower, Broadwalk House, and 10 Exchange Square. Chief executive Simon Carter said: “The fantastic additions to our retail offer at Broadgate Central will only enhance the campus’s appeal.” He also highlighted the continued demand for workspace in the area, driven by Broadgate’s connectivity, amenities, and high-quality office environment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Castlemere Developments has officially broken ground on a new residential project consisting of six luxury four-bedroom townhouses in Dulwich. The Windsor-based developer, known for its portfolio of high-end properties across London, has started groundworks on the site of a former doctor’s surgery on Melbourne Grove. The project is expected to be completed by September 2025, with each townhouse priced at £1.6 million. Each of the townhouses will offer 1,700 square feet of living space spread across three floors, including a basement and a roof terrace. The properties will feature state-of-the-art smart home technology, German designer kitchens, oak flooring, bespoke lighting, underfloor heating powered by heat pumps and solar panels, as well as electric car charging points. The external areas will include a courtyard with structural glass flooring designed to bring natural light into the basement. Kris Collett, managing director of Castlemere Developments, is confident the townhouses in Dulwich will attract significant interest from potential buyers. He said: “We are creating homes that dovetail perfectly with the location to be the ideal family home. “Given the high quality aspect of these properties combined with the location of Dulwich, which offers an excellent lifestyle, I do expect to see a lot of interest in these six properties. “The area is known for superb schools, easy connections to central London and has that village feel with independent shops and cafes in the midst of the capital.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major housing development in South Wokingham has been approved, paving the way for 1,434 new homes, a primary school, public spaces, and a local centre. The project, a collaboration between Miller Homes and Kier Property, forms part of the South Wokingham Strategic Development Location (SWSDL) in Berkshire. Wokingham Borough Council initially resolved to grant planning permission in May 2021 and has now given the final go-ahead. Construction is set to begin this spring, subject to reserved matters applications and planning conditions. The development also includes plans for a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) to help offset environmental impacts. David Brown, managing director of Miller Homes Southern, said: “This project marks an important step in delivering much-needed housing, infrastructure, and amenities for South Wokingham. The addition of a new primary school and public spaces will create a thriving community for future residents. Our commitment to sustainable and timely delivery will ensure the success of this strategic development.” Kier Property managing director Leigh Thomas added: “By working closely with Miller Homes, Wokingham Borough Council, and the local community, we aim to provide not only essential housing but also sustainable infrastructure and vibrant public spaces that serve both current and future generations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A highly innovative screed, proven to deliver a lower carbon footprint, has played a key role in a major construction project, helping reach new heights at Canary Wharf in London’s Docklands! The project involved the development of two high-rise residential towers, known as Buildings J1 and J3, reaching an impressive 34 and 48 storeys respectively – or 180 metres! Main contractors, Canary Wharf, and specialist contractors TCS, needed a screed solution that could be pumped to such significant heights without compromising quality or performance. Gypsol TS-15, from LKAB was the product of choice. This groundbreaking step means that even the very tallest buildings can now install an advanced screed solution to support underfloor heating and other services – a product which LKAB Minerals will be showcasing for the first time at Futurebuild on Stand No E40. Traditional concrete and other options on the market tend to segregate during pumping at such great heights, which is why Gypsol was seen as the obvious choice. LKAB Minerals’ screed maintains its consistency, ensuring a flawless finish without the risk of segregation and the screed offers reduced carbon emissions as well as countless other advantages compared to its competitors! Other benefits include its ultra-thin application, which allows for greater floor-to-ceiling height and maximises usable space and its ability to deliver larger bay sizes, which reduces the need for joints, resulting in a smoother and more aesthetically pleasing floor. Gypsol TS-15 can also be poured more quickly and easily, reducing project timelines costs and is a preferred choice compared to traditional cement-based screeds. “LKAB Minerals’ Gypsol TS-15 screed proved to be the perfect solution for this ambitious project,” said Aaron Butterfield, of Canary Wharf Contractors. “The combination of its technical performance and pumpability made it a clear choice for us.” “This project has also set a new standard for high-rise construction. Using Gypsol screed allowed us to install, quickly and efficiently, a screed application at unprecedented heights.” Gypsol TS-15 delivers a low carbon footprint, aligning with Canary Wharf’s commitment to environmentally friendly development. The minimal thickness of the screed – it can be placed at a depth of just 15mm in either bonded or unbonded constructions – further minimises the weight on the building’s structure, contributing to overall efficiency. The project has delivered 790 new apartments, private amenity spaces and vibrant ground-floor retail and leisure facilities, all housed within two stunning towers. This development represents a significant step forward in creating a thriving and environmentally responsible urban community within London! “We were proud to be a part of this groundbreaking project,” said Timothy Draper, Technical Sales Manager for LKAB Minerals. “Our Gypsol TS-15 screed demonstrates how innovative materials can contribute to achieving ambitious construction goals while keeping responsible sourcing in mind.” “This project also signifies a major leap forward in high-rise construction. The use of Gypsol TS-15 screed not only addresses the technical challenges of reaching extreme heights, but further demonstrates our commitment to environmentally conscious building practices.” Gypsol TS-15 screed, a revolutionary liquid screed material specifically formulated for interior floors uses anhydrite as its primary binder. Anhydrite production generates significantly less CO₂ compared to cement! Furthermore, the Gypsol product range delivers faster drying times compared to traditional screeds, allowing for quicker project completion, matched by excellent strength and durability. It is suitable for a wide range of different applications including new build, refurbishment, underfloor heating systems and timber floor applications making it a compelling choice for architects, builders and developers seeking innovative construction methods. This has been demonstrated at Canary Wharf where the success of this project paves the way for even more ambitious high-rise developments. With innovative materials like Gypsol TS-15 pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, the future of urban skylines appears to be reaching new heights, quite literally! Come and visit us at Futurebuild on stand E40. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The construction industry is undergoing one of the most exciting transformations of the 21st century. At the heart of this revolution? Data analytics. Long considered a “brick-and-mortar” field, construction is now leveraging cutting-edge technologies to predict trends, manage risks, and optimize processes. For construction professionals, understanding data analytics isn’t just a competitive advantage—it’s quickly becoming essential. This guide explores how data analytics is reshaping construction, highlighting key applications, benefits, and strategies for implementation. To see how innovative tools are simplifying construction analytics, you can explore platforms like SmartPM (https://smartpm.com/project-workspace/), which empowers teams to streamline project management and decision-making. Key Applications of Data Analytics in Construction Data analytics is more than just numbers on a screen—it’s actionable insights that drive real-world changes. Here are some of the most impactful applications in the construction sector. 1. Predictive Maintenance Unexpected equipment breakdowns can bring construction projects to a grinding halt. Predictive maintenance powered by data analytics can change that. By collecting and analyzing real-time performance data from machinery, predictive algorithms can forecast when equipment is likely to fail. For instance, sensors on excavators might detect irregular vibrations, prompting immediate repairs before a major failure occurs. This minimizes downtime, keeps projects on schedule, and reduces maintenance costs. 2. Risk Management Construction projects are inherently risky, with safety concerns, tight budgets, and unpredictable timelines. Data analytics is revolutionizing risk management by identifying and mitigating potential issues early on. For example: By analyzing past project data, companies can make more informed decisions and proactively address risks. 3. Project Scheduling and Optimization Timely completion is critical in construction, but delays are common. Data analytics helps streamline project schedules by analyzing historical data, current progress, and resource availability. For example, advanced analytics software can recommend the most efficient order of operations or flag areas where delays are likely to occur based on past trends. 4. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important focus in construction. Data analytics tools help measure energy consumption on sites, track material usage, and reduce waste. This not only aligns with environmental goals but also minimizes costs in the long term. For instance, developers can analyze building performance data to design more energy-efficient systems and reduce operational costs for end users. Benefits of Data Analytics in Construction Adopting data analytics doesn’t just enhance convenience—it delivers measurable benefits that transform how construction companies operate. 1. Cost Reduction Waste is a major issue in construction, whether it’s time, materials, or money. Data analytics shines a spotlight on inefficiencies, offering solutions to streamline operations. Consider inventory management. By analyzing usage patterns, companies can order materials more accurately, reducing surplus and minimizing waste. Similarly, project managers can track labor productivity in real-time to identify underperforming tasks and reallocate resources. 2. Improved Safety Construction sites are among the most hazardous workplaces, but data analytics is improving safety standards across the board. Real-time monitoring of on-site activity provides safety supervisors with actionable insights. For instance, wearables equipped with sensors can detect abnormal heart rates in workers, prompting preemptive action to prevent heat exhaustion or fatigue-related accidents. 3. Enhanced Decision-Making Gone are the days of relying purely on intuition or experience for decision-making. Data analytics provides hard evidence to back up important choices, from project planning to resource allocation. By analyzing past projects, construction managers can better estimate costs, timelines, and potential obstacles, leading to more accurate bids and greater client satisfaction. 4. Competitive Advantage Investing in data analytics sets companies apart in a competitive market. Clients increasingly expect transparency, efficiency, and innovation from their contractors. Companies leveraging data analytics demonstrate their commitment to these factors, winning more projects and building stronger industry reputations. Implementing Data Analytics in Construction Now that you’re convinced of the power of data analytics, the next step is understanding how to implement it effectively. 1. Choose the Right Tools The construction industry offers numerous data analytics tools tailored to specific needs. Investing in the right software is critical—make sure you choose tools that align with your organization’s goals and workflows. 2. Train Your Team Data analytics tools are only as effective as the people using them. Provide your team with comprehensive training to ensure they can interpret insights and apply them in real-world scenarios. Consider partnering with technology providers or hiring data analysts to bridge skill gaps within your organization. 3. Start Small While it’s tempting to go all-in on data analytics, starting small ensures a smoother transition. Choose one or two key areas—such as project scheduling or equipment maintenance—and implement analytics there first. This allows you to measure results, fix any issues, and build confidence before rolling out analytics across other areas. 4. Ensure Data Accuracy Reliable insights depend on accurate data. Invest in high-quality sensors, robust data collection systems, and routine audits to maintain data integrity. Remember, garbage in equals garbage out. The Future of Data Analytics in Construction The rise of data analytics in construction isn’t slowing down. New trends and advancements are shaping the future of the industry: Construction professionals who invest in data analytics today will lead the industry tomorrow. The tools are already accessible, the benefits are clear, and the potential for innovation is endless. Build a Data-Driven Future The construction industry has entered the era of data, where success is defined by your ability to adapt and innovate. Data analytics isn’t just a fleeting trend—it’s a foundation for smarter, safer, and more sustainable construction practices. If your company hasn’t started using data analytics, now is the time to explore its possibilities. Begin integrating these technologies into your operations and take your projects to the next level.