March 7, 2025
New homes ‘top out’ at St Ann’s Hospital site

New homes ‘top out’ at St Ann’s Hospital site

Hundreds of much-needed new homes for London have moved a step closer to completion, with the “topping out” of 240 homes on the former St Ann’s Hospital site in South Tottenham. Not-for-profit housing association Peabody and development partner The Hill Group marked the milestone on Friday 28 February, joined by

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St Ann's Hospital redevelopment reaches milestone

St Ann’s Hospital redevelopment reaches milestone

The redevelopment of the former St Ann’s Hospital site in South Tottenham has reached a significant milestone, with the topping out of 240 new homes. Peabody and development partner The Hill Group celebrated the event on Friday 28 February, joined by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, Tom Copley,

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Luna Students Announces New Leadership Team to Drive Growth and Expansion

Luna Students Announces New Leadership Team to Drive Growth and Expansion

Luna Students, a leading provider of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) management services and part of Torsion Group, is pleased to announce its new leadership team. The appointments mark a significant step in Luna’s ambitious growth strategy, positioning the company to enhance student living experiences while driving value for property owners. 

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G&H opens applications for 2025 apprenticeship scheme

G&H opens applications for 2025 apprenticeship scheme

Leeds-based mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) provider G&H has opened applications for its 2025 apprenticeship programme, offering both on-site and office-based roles. This year, there are several apprenticeship opportunities available in electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), service and maintenance, engineering, and building services disciplines. Apprentices joining the

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Scotland’s first female electrical apprentice is star of new video released by SELECT for Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2025

Scotland’s first female electrical apprentice is star of new video released by SELECT for Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2025

Heather Fleming tells trade association how apprenticeship set her on the path to a successful career 37 years ago… Campaigning trade association SELECT has tracked down Scotland’s first-ever female electrical apprentice to discuss her career journey in an inspiring new video for Scottish Apprenticeship Week. Former textile machinist Heather Fleming

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Latest Issue
Issue 327 : Apr 2025

March 7, 2025

UK’s First Public Electric HGV Charging Hub Opens at Able Humber Port

UK’s First Public Electric HGV Charging Hub Opens at Able Humber Port

The UK’s first public Electric Heavy Goods Vehicle (eHGV) charging hub has officially launched at Able Humber Port (AHP) in Immingham. The milestone development, hosted by Able Group on 5 March 2025, marks a significant step towards decarbonising transport and logistics in the region as electric HGVs begin to replace diesel-powered fleets. Able Group, serving as both the landlord and renewable energy provider for the site, unveiled the facility alongside Milence, a joint venture between Daimler Truck, TRATON Group (which includes brands such as Scania and MAN), and Volvo Group. The Immingham site is the first of its kind in the UK and forms part of Milence’s ambitious plan to establish 1,700 eHGV charging points across Europe by 2027. Milence CEO, Anja van Niersen, hailed the opening as a pivotal moment in the UK’s transition to electric freight transport. “This strategically located site underscores our commitment to providing reliable and accessible charging infrastructure for the growing number of electric truck operators. This is just the first step in our UK expansion, and we are dedicated to working with all stakeholders to accelerate the shift towards a sustainable future for the transport industry.” A Strategic Location for the Future of Green Freight Phase one of the hub features four high-performance Combined Charging System (CCS) chargers serving eight bays, alongside a Megawatt Charging System (MCS) charger powering two bays. Drivers will also have access to lounge and welfare facilities, including food and beverage options. Future phases will expand the number of CCS and MCS chargers while enhancing site amenities. Situated just off the A180, with direct links to the M180, M18, and M1 motorways, the Immingham hub is ideally positioned to support the UK’s busiest freight routes. The Able Humber Port plays a crucial role in UK trade, handling over 30 Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) and Lo-Lo (lift-on/lift-off) sailings per week, providing vital connections to Northern Europe, Scandinavia, and the Baltic regions. North Lincolnshire Council’s deputy leader, Councillor Richard Hannigan, praised the project as “a groundbreaking innovation for the UK.” He added, “Local residents understand that HGVs are the lifeblood of the country. They want to see quiet, efficient, and non-polluting HGVs on the road.” Driving Towards a Net Zero Future Peter Stephenson, Executive Chairman of Able Group, highlighted the significance of the hub as part of the region’s renewable energy strategy. “The opening of this charging hub is a major step forward in our commitment to sustainability and demonstrates the potential of the Humber Freeport region. As a landowner and developer of renewable electricity, we are proud to support Milence in advancing sustainable transport solutions. This development is just the beginning of our net zero ambitions at AHP.” Able Humber Port spans 351 hectares (867 acres), with 39.4 hectares (97 acres) of quayside space, including a 177.7-hectare (439-acre) designated tax site within the Humber Freeport. The site is primed for further green developments, and Able Group is actively seeking additional tenants and partners aligned with its vision for a sustainable future. With the launch of Milence’s eHGV charging hub, the UK takes a significant step towards electrifying heavy goods transport—paving the way for cleaner, quieter, and more efficient freight movement nationwide. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New homes ‘top out’ at St Ann’s Hospital site

New homes ‘top out’ at St Ann’s Hospital site

Hundreds of much-needed new homes for London have moved a step closer to completion, with the “topping out” of 240 homes on the former St Ann’s Hospital site in South Tottenham. Not-for-profit housing association Peabody and development partner The Hill Group marked the milestone on Friday 28 February, joined by Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, and representatives from the London Borough of Haringey including its leader Councillor Peray Ahmet. The first homes are expected to be completed this summer, with the final development finished in 2031.  The project is set to deliver up to 995 homes overall, with 60 percent affordable. The first phase, currently under construction, will provide 240 homes, including 94 affordable, along with new green spaces and commercial premises. The homes will be built around a larger Peace Garden, which is being restored and tripled in size to increase biodiversity. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew is helping with the transformation. The new neighbourhood, which will be known as North Gate Park, will also feature a children’s play area, electric vehicle charging points, and cycle routes to Harringay Green Lanes station. Seven historic hospital buildings, including the iconic water tower, will be preserved and converted into workspaces and commercial spaces. The project won a Housing Design Award in 2024 for its masterplan. Peabody was appointed by the Mayor of London in 2023 to redevelop the site. In addition to more homes, future phases are set to include a convenience store. James McMylor, Regional Managing Director for Development in London North for Peabody, said: “North Gate Park is a fantastic example of how regeneration can deliver much-needed homes while creating lasting benefits for the whole community. This development not only provides affordable and high-quality homes but also revitalises a historic site, with new amenities and green spaces that will serve local people for generations to come. We look forward to welcoming new residents from later in the year.”  Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, said: “North Gate Park is a fantastic example of how we can create much-needed new homes while celebrating and preserving the rich history of London’s neighbourhoods. This impressive development will deliver nearly 1,000 new, high-quality homes – 60 per cent of which are genuinely affordable – and a range of amenities, making it a truly inclusive place to live. I look forward to seeing North Gate Park come to life as a thriving new neighbourhood in north London, helping to build a better, fairer London for all.” Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, commented: “Sustainability, heritage and community are at the heart of North Gate Park, blending contemporary homes with beautifully restored historic architecture, green spaces, and outstanding community amenities. Celebrating this topping out ceremony alongside our partner Peabody provides a moment to reflect on how proud we are to be delivering not only much-needed housing but an outstanding new neighbourhood.” Cllr Sarah Williams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: “We are very happy to celebrate this milestone, which marks significant progress in the delivery of this important redevelopment project. “This thriving new neighbourhood will deliver hundreds of genuinely affordable homes, 154 of which will be owned by the council, alongside facilities that provide lasting benefits for the whole community.  “These high quality, energy efficient homes for local people are set in a landscape-led masterplan with hundreds of new trees and enhanced spaces, and it’s been a fantastic opportunity to see the transformation of the site first hand.    “We are on track to deliver 3,000 new council homes by 2031, built to the very best environmental and design standards, with work already completed or started on more than 2,000.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Investec funds Birmingham’s first co-living development with £17 million loan for 150-unit scheme

Investec funds Birmingham’s first co-living development with £17 million loan for 150-unit scheme

Investec Bank plc (“Investec”), a leading international financial services provider, announces that its Real Estate team has provided The James, a fast-growing UK rental accommodation provider, with a £17 million loan to fund the development of a 150-unit co-living scheme in Birmingham city centre. It furthers Investec’s exposure to a sector that is benefitting from a number of compelling tailwinds, including a growing shortage of high-quality rental homes and ongoing homeownership affordability challenges. The development will see the transformation of Richmond House, a 67,000 sq ft former university building, into The James Birmingham, the city’s first co-living scheme, designed to meet the need for high quality rental units from postgraduate students and young professionals working in the area. The development will include a two-storey rooftop extension and the provision of shared facilities including a communal kitchen and dining areas, podcast studio and work lounge, gym, games room, cinema, external terrace and socialising area. Other features include air source heat pumps throughout the building and 166 bike parking spaces. Founded in 2018, The James currently has 302 apartments in operation across three fully occupied assets in Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield. A further 406 are in development, including The James Birmingham as well as a future scheme in Manchester. Knight Frank’s 2024 UK co-living report revealed that since 2020 investors have deployed nearly £1 billion funding or acquiring co-living developments, and further acceleration in the growth of the sector is anticipated[1]. Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Birmingham are the most established regional markets as a result of their large and growing populations of young professionals, strong graduate retention rates and expanding employment markets, which make them viable locations for developers and investors[2]. Ian Burdett at Investec, commented: “The appeal of co-living is rapidly expanding across the UK. Having initially gained traction in London, the sector is now increasingly reaching other major regional cities, where housing supply and the ability to get on the housing ladder is a challenge for many. Students and young professionals are also increasingly drawn to the sector’s vibrant amenity and community offering. “The James’ established track record of delivering high quality schemes across several UK cities made them a natural partner as we look to grow our exposure to the sector. We look forward to working with them again as they build out their portfolio further.” Grant Sulkin, Co-Founder at The James, added: “We are thrilled to be bringing our product to Birmingham and to be working with Investec on this exciting development. The city’s strong demand for high-quality rental housing aligns perfectly with our vision to create vibrant, well-connected communities for young professionals and postgraduate students. We look forward to delivering an exceptional living experience at The James Birmingham.” [1] Knight Frank: The Co-Living Report 2024 [2] ibid Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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St Ann's Hospital redevelopment reaches milestone

St Ann’s Hospital redevelopment reaches milestone

The redevelopment of the former St Ann’s Hospital site in South Tottenham has reached a significant milestone, with the topping out of 240 new homes. Peabody and development partner The Hill Group celebrated the event on Friday 28 February, joined by Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, Tom Copley, and representatives from the London Borough of Haringey. The project, known as North Gate Park, is set to deliver up to 995 homes overall, with 60 percent designated as affordable housing. The first phase, currently under construction, will provide 240 homes, including 94 affordable units, along with new green spaces and commercial premises. The first homes are expected to be completed this summer, with the entire development finished in 2031. The development will feature a restored and tripled-in-size Peace Garden, with assistance from the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew to enhance biodiversity. It will also include a children’s play area, electric vehicle charging points, and cycle routes to Harringay Green Lanes station. Seven historic hospital buildings, including the iconic water tower, will be preserved and converted into workspaces and commercial spaces. The project won a Housing Design Award in 2024 for its masterplan. James McMylor, Regional Managing Director for Development in London North for Peabody, said: “North Gate Park is a fantastic example of how regeneration can deliver much-needed homes while creating lasting benefits for the whole community. This development not only provides affordable and high-quality homes but also revitalises a historic site, with new amenities and green spaces that will serve local people for generations to come.” Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, said: “North Gate Park is a fantastic example of how we can create much-needed new homes while celebrating and preserving the rich history of London’s neighbourhoods. This impressive development will deliver nearly 1,000 new, high-quality homes – 60 per cent of which are genuinely affordable – and a range of amenities, making it a truly inclusive place to live.” Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, commented: “Sustainability, heritage and community are at the heart of North Gate Park, blending contemporary homes with beautifully restored historic architecture, green spaces, and outstanding community amenities.” Cllr Sarah Williams, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning, said: “This thriving new neighbourhood will deliver hundreds of genuinely affordable homes, 154 of which will be owned by the council, alongside facilities that provide lasting benefits for the whole community. These high quality, energy efficient homes for local people are set in a landscape-led masterplan with hundreds of new trees and enhanced spaces.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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£30m Boost for Affordable Housing as Wales Pension Partnership Invests in Local Development

£30m Boost for Affordable Housing as Wales Pension Partnership Invests in Local Development

Pluto Finance has secured £30m in funding from The Wales Pension Partnership (WPP), a collaboration of eight local government pension schemes (LGPS), to support the development of affordable housing across Wales. WPP will channel the investment through Pluto Finance’s local impact programme, which enables LGPS funds and pools to contribute to place-based investments while maintaining diversification within a national loan portfolio. The initiative is particularly focused on supporting SME housebuilders, many of whom have struggled to secure traditional bank financing following recent regulatory changes. WPP highlighted that the funding will have a meaningful impact on Welsh communities by driving the construction of affordable homes, boosting regional economic growth, regenerating local areas, and creating jobs for SMEs. Elwyn Williams, chair of the WPP joint governance committee, said:“The Wales Pension Partnership is committed to providing productive capital into Wales, and we are delighted to have found a solution that delivers both financial returns and positive local impact. This investment, made through our private debt allocator, Russell Investments, aims to support both the Welsh economy and the affordable housing needs of our communities.” Ashley Manning-Brown, head of UK investor solutions at Pluto Finance, added:“We are thrilled to be working with the Wales Pension Partnership to help bring about real change in local, affordable housing. By leveraging our innovative approach to place-based investment, WPP will provide much-needed support to communities while also driving investment and job creation across the region.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Luna Students Announces New Leadership Team to Drive Growth and Expansion

Luna Students Announces New Leadership Team to Drive Growth and Expansion

Luna Students, a leading provider of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) management services and part of Torsion Group, is pleased to announce its new leadership team. The appointments mark a significant step in Luna’s ambitious growth strategy, positioning the company to enhance student living experiences while driving value for property owners.  We’re especially proud that our leadership team is majority female —an important distinction in a sector where this remains rare. Meet the Leadership Team With over 15 years of experience in the PBSA sector, Louise is a strategic leader with a proven track record in driving occupancy, enhancing student experiences, and maximising asset value. Having held senior roles at Unite, Liberty Living, GSA/Yugo, and StudentCrowd, she brings a wealth of expertise in sales, marketing, and strategy. Louise’s vision for Luna Students is centred around operational excellence and industry-leading student experiences. Stuart has been at the forefront of PBSA operations for over a decade. Beginning his journey as General Manager at The Student Housing Company in 2014, he quickly ascended to European Head of Operations at Yugo, overseeing 20,000 beds. His leadership has garnered multiple industry awards, including International Operator of the Year at the 2020 Student Accommodation Awards. Stuart’s expertise in operational efficiency, team leadership, and ESG strategies will be instrumental in Luna’s continued growth. Rosie began her decade-long career in PBSA as a Resident Assistant at The Student Housing Company, quickly advancing to Digital Marketing Specialist. She later played a key role in the rapid expansion of PBSA portfolios, successfully launching new markets across nine countries as Head of Marketing at Nido Living and contributing to 12 industry award wins during her tenure. With expertise in brand development, demand generation, and strategic market entry, and named one of EG’s Rising Stars of Real Estate in 2023, her appointment will support LUNA’s ambitious growth, expanding its presence in new locations and strengthening student engagement. Shelley brings over 17 years of experience in PBSA, having held key roles at Yugo, Liberty Living, The Student Housing Company and Project Student. She specialises in building high-performing teams and optimising commercial and operational functions. She has a keen ability to enhance student experience while delivering strong financial performance. Shelley’s leadership will ensure Luna’s growth remains people-focused, aligning with its commitment to providing exceptional student living environments. Luna’s Growth and Expansion Plans LUNA Students currently has over 700 beds live for 2025 and a pipeline of over 2500 beds as part of their rapid growth plan to own and operate over 4,000 beds in the next 4 years. As a third-party operator, Luna is expanding its reach through strategic partnerships, leveraging its expertise to provide best-in-class student accommodation management services. In partnership with Torsion Group, Luna is committed to sustainability, operational efficiency, and student well-being. Recent developments include a joint venture with Zenzic Capital, acquiring five major PBSA schemes in Leeds, Warwick and Nottingham.  Currently LUNA operates two schemes, with three additional properties set to launch in September 2025, following a mix of owner –operator and third-party management models.   Luna Students work closely with Torsion Developments to achieve the highest 3-Star Fitwel Certification in the UK, and excellent BREEAM ratings reinforcing its commitment to creating healthy and sustainable student living environments. Leadership Vision Louise Bena, Managing Director at Luna Students, stated: I am incredibly proud to have built such an outstanding leadership team. At Luna Students, people are at the heart of everything we do—our team, our customers, and our investors. We are committed to delivering excellence at every level. This year marks an exciting period of growth for Luna, and I am thrilled to be on this journey with such a talented and dedicated team. Dan Spencer, CEO of Torsion Group, added: Luna Students is a key part of Torsion Group’s fully integrated business model, enabling us to invest, develop, construct and operate best-in-class student accommodation. The team at Luna is among the best in the sector, and they are already making a huge impact—enhancing student experiences, optimising developments, and delivering strong returns for our investors. With Louise’s leadership and our combined expertise, we are well-positioned to accelerate our growth and set new benchmarks for excellence in the PBSA sector. For more information on Luna Students, visit: www.lunastudents.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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G&H opens applications for 2025 apprenticeship scheme

G&H opens applications for 2025 apprenticeship scheme

Leeds-based mechanical, electrical, and public health (MEP) provider G&H has opened applications for its 2025 apprenticeship programme, offering both on-site and office-based roles. This year, there are several apprenticeship opportunities available in electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), service and maintenance, engineering, and building services disciplines. Apprentices joining the team in August 2025 will become full-time employees, gaining hands-on experience, academic qualifications, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and a competitive salary. Applications are welcome from post-A-Level, BTEC, or equivalent school and college leavers. The three-year apprenticeship scheme is delivered in partnership with further education establishments, including Leeds College of Building and Bradford College, and will lead to an industry-recognised City & Guilds qualification. Paul Churchill, Development Manager at G&H, said: “We’re excited to launch our 2025 apprenticeship scheme, which is designed to develop and nurture our future workforce. We’re looking for candidates who are hardworking, reliable, eager to learn, and passionate about the construction sector. “For over 25 years, we have offered a comprehensive apprenticeship programme designed to attract top talent and provide young people with valuable real-world experience, with many of our alumni having gone on to forge successful careers at G&H.” Charlie Barton, first year Maintenance Apprentice at G&H said: “Applying for the G&H apprenticeship scheme was the best decision I ever made. I’m gaining valuable on-the-job training, experiencing the working world firsthand, and attending college, where I’ll earn my Level 3 NVQ in Servicing and Maintenance upon completion. For me, an apprenticeship has been a far better pathway than just going to college, and I would highly recommend it to anyone leaving school and eager to start their career.” G&H has been delivering apprenticeships since 1999, with many former apprentices now in senior roles. Chair of the Department for Education’s Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, Anthony Impey, recently visited G&H and praised the “inspiring work that G&H is doing to invest in the skills needed to drive the growth and productivity of their business.” Apprenticeships on offer include two Level 3 Electrical roles, Level 3 HVAC, and Level 3 Plumbing, all based in the north, and a Level 3 Service and Maintenance role in the south. All applicants must be at least 18-years-old by August 2025. GCSE grade four or above in Maths and English are desirable but not essential, as is a driving license. Additionally, there are two Level 4 Project Manager apprenticeship roles. Applicants must be at least 16-years-old by August 2025, be able to travel to the Pudsey-based head office, and hold five GCSEs graded four to nine, including English, Maths, and Science. Candidates with a BTEC Extended Diploma, Level 3 advanced apprenticeship, or one to two A-levels, are encouraged to apply and may be considered for a fast-track route to completion. The deadline for applications is 28 March, with a recruitment day scheduled for April and an August 2025 start. CVs should be sent to katie.hardisty@wearegandh.com  Established in 1998, G&H is a leading MEP provider. Its 200-strong experienced team designs, manages, delivers, and maintains every aspect of MEP schemes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Scotland’s first female electrical apprentice is star of new video released by SELECT for Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2025

Scotland’s first female electrical apprentice is star of new video released by SELECT for Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2025

Heather Fleming tells trade association how apprenticeship set her on the path to a successful career 37 years ago… Campaigning trade association SELECT has tracked down Scotland’s first-ever female electrical apprentice to discuss her career journey in an inspiring new video for Scottish Apprenticeship Week. Former textile machinist Heather Fleming tells viewers how she got her big break 37 years ago, how she insisted on being treated as an equal to her male counterparts – and why she still believes an apprenticeship is an invaluable way to help climb the career ladder. Produced in partnership with the Scottish Electrical Charitable Training Trust (SECTT), the video has also been released ahead of International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March. In the film, entitled Blazing a Trail, Heather reveals how she switched careers when she joined SELECT Member firm HF Electrical in Glasgow in 1988. She says: “I was working as a sewing machinist in a factory and had the afternoon off, so went to the local careers office and found a leaflet called Would You Like to be an Electrician? “Electricity had always been like black magic – it was just there – so it piqued my interest and I thought, ‘I’ll go for it and if I don’t get it, I don’t get it.’ “I was sent for an aptitude test and then told, ‘You’ve passed everything. Where would you like to work?’ I had no idea so they set me up with an interview at HF, I got the job and started work.” Heather duly became Scotland’s first female electrical apprentice, attending Clydebank College – now West College Scotland – but insists she was never given any special treatment. She tells the film: “HF looked after me but there was never any, ‘Wow, you’re the first’. I still had a job to do and there was an attitude of, ‘This person is part of our team and we will make sure we give her opportunities.’ “Although I’d gone from a very female-oriented job to a very male oriented one, for my own part it was just a job and I didn’t think it was any big deal.” Heather also said she also insisted on equality as she continued her studies at Stow College, night school and university, revealing: “I was the only female in most classes and sometimes the lecturers would say, ‘We’d like to put you forward for something because you’re female.’ “But I always said, ‘I’m not the best person for that, not if there’s a guy that’s better than me – put them forward’.  Just because you’re a female you don’t need to be promoted more.” After rising through the ranks and working at a consultancy, Heather gained a degree in Building Services and is now an engineer with the Estates Department at the University of Edinburgh, who are also members of SELECT. She said: “Life is about earning money and having a good lifestyle and an apprenticeship will get you to the stage of having a good job and being able to go up the tree.” The video also comes more than three decades after Heather discussed her apprenticeship in SELECT’s cabletalk magazine, in which she said: “Sometimes there’s some taunting on-site, but I try to ignore it and if that doesn’t work I just give it back to them.” And she said: “I think the attitude to women in the workplace in general has changed since then. I just think it’s a natural progression and I’ve been accepted in every job that I’ve been to.” SELECT Director of Employment Affairs Catherine Gillon said: “As we celebrate achievements of electricians everywhere as part of our 125th anniversary, we are grateful to Heather and the University of Edinburgh for giving up their time and allowing us to discuss her journey in the industry. “Some 37 years after we first interviewed her, it is heartening to see that Heather is still working in our sector. It shows that with a solid apprenticeship and the ongoing support of industry bodies like SELECT and SECTT, anything is achievable.” SECTT CEO Fiona Harper added: “Heather’s story is an inspiring one and is the perfect example for Scottish Apprenticeship Week as it shows the rewards and opportunities that are available to young learners starting out on their own career path. “As we look ahead to International Women’s Day, it also shows that there are no barriers in the electrotechnical industry and we should rightfully celebrate the achievements of the many women who currently enjoy successful careers at all levels of the sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Developers Hit by Lengthy Delays and Rising Costs Due to Safety Regulations

Developers Hit by Lengthy Delays and Rising Costs Due to Safety Regulations

Developers are facing construction delays of more than 18 months and additional costs of up to £49,000 per week due to safety regulations such as the Building Safety Act (BSA), according to new data from the Purposeful Finance Commission (PFC). A report published today by the PFC highlights how the BSA has unintentionally caused significant setbacks in the construction sector. The independent body, which brings together public and private sector organisations, warns that the stringent regulatory process is creating major barriers to housing and infrastructure development. The report, Breaking the Cycle: Unlocking Infrastructure Investment, reveals that developers are waiting over 18 months for approvals from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) before they can even begin construction. These delays stem primarily from the three-stage ‘gateway’ process that high-risk projects must navigate to secure planning consent, construction approval, and ultimately, occupancy. Since the introduction of Gateway 2 in October 2023, the number of build-to-rent (BTR) homes reaching the detailed planning application stage has dropped by 41%, falling to just 17,315 between Q4 2023 and Q4 2024. The PFC argues that these regulatory delays are making many schemes financially unviable, with one developer reportedly losing up to £49,000 per week due to prolonged waiting times at Gateway 2. In December alone, the BSR received 1,502 planning applications for high-risk buildings, yet nearly half remain undecided. Of those reviewed, more than 70% have been either rejected or deemed invalid. Meanwhile, construction starts on over 800 high-rise residential projects have been delayed, with Gateway 2 approvals now taking an average of 22 weeks—almost double the original 12-week target. Tracy Blackwell, chief executive of the Pension Insurance Corporation and chair of the PFC, acknowledged the importance of regulatory oversight but criticised the lack of resources that is slowing progress. She said: “Regulators play a critical role, particularly in ensuring resident safety, but there is no excuse for them to be under-resourced and effectively stalling vital infrastructure and housing projects. The regulatory burden is strangling growth, and I’m delighted the PFC is focused on how regulation can better align with the government’s growth mission and drive investment into the economy.” The report also found that nearly half (49%) of local authorities in England have reduced spending on planning, with overall planning department budgets increasing by just 3.85% per capita between 2018 and 2022. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Maven Capital Partners Seals £14.4m Loan to Refinance Glasgow Build-to-Rent Scheme

Maven Capital Partners Seals £14.4m Loan to Refinance Glasgow Build-to-Rent Scheme

A recently completed build-to-rent scheme located in the heart of Glasgow has been refinanced following a £14.4m loan from Secure Trust Bank (STB) Real Estate Finance. The three-year residential property investment loan has been provided to Maven Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm. It was used to refinance an external development facility at Dalian, a former office building converted into 92 apartments. Just a mile away from Glasgow Central train station, the development is conveniently located in Scotland’s most populated city. Completing in late December, only six weeks on from credit approval, this is the bank’s second deal with Maven Capital Partners, having funded the development of a 159-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Stirling in 2020. The deal was led by Daniel Thornton, Relationship Director at STB Real Estate Finance, with the support of Joe Hora, Relationship Support Manager. Paul Johnston, Partner at Maven Capital Partners, said: “Following completion of Dalian in late 2024 we are delighted that the property has let extremely well, and that STB was able to complete the refinance so quickly.  We look forward to working together over the next three years.” Daniel said: “It was a pleasure to work with Maven Capital Partners on this transaction. Over the past six years, STB has been able to build a strong working relationship with Maven that is mutually beneficial to both parties. “With the deal occurring during what was certainly a busy end to the year, a quick turnaround was simply non-negotiable. This was made possible thanks to the hard work of our experienced property finance professionals alongside a constant dialogue with Paul and his team.” With 10 regional offices located across the country, Maven Capital Partners has invested over £920m in UK businesses since 2009. Acting on behalf of the bank for this property loan was solicitors Addleshaw Goddard. Discover more about Secure Trust Bank Real Estate Finance or its dedicated residential property investment landing page. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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