YTL Developments has now submitted a planning application for a landmark Grade-A office building that will be the gateway to Brabazon, located next to the new train station. The new eight-storey office development will be the first permanent commercial space at Brabazon and marks the first step in delivering a
Elan Homes is preparing to start work on a 110-home scheme in the Warrington village of Hollins Green. The Cheshire-based business recently acquired a 10.5-acre site off Manchester Road. The land was allocated for housing in the Warrington Local Plan 2021/22 to 2038/39, which was adopted in December 2023. Outline
Travelodge has announced the acquisition of 11 hotels across the UK, marking a major step forward in its ambitious growth plans. The move expands the brand’s UK portfolio to nearly 600 hotels, with the company aiming to open a further 300 nationwide. Nine of the newly acquired sites are former
Sir Robert McAlpine has secured a major £30 million contract to deliver the North East Space Skills & Technology Centre (NESST) for Northumbria University in Newcastle. The appointment follows a pre-construction services agreement (PCSA) and marks a significant step forward in the creation of a cutting-edge facility aimed at driving
Work has started on a major new public transport hub for Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, a key part of the town’s regeneration. Designed by multidisciplinary design practice BDP and built by Kier for Pembrokeshire County Council, the Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange (HPTI) includes the construction of a modern bus station
Hines UK has made a significant investment in South Yorkshire, acquiring Sheffield’s largest retail park—Drakehouse Retail Park—for £50.75 million. The purchase from 90 North Real Estate Partners reflects a net initial yield of 7.0%. Covering 232,538 sq ft, the prominent out-of-town retail destination features 17 retail units arranged around a
Hochiki Europe, a leading manufacturer of innovative life safety solutions, is pleased to announce that its ESP intelligent fire detection range has been installed at a brand new 17,000 square metre storage hub near Galanta, Slovakia. The extensive warehouse facility, owned by KL Logistic, presented a significant fire safety undertaking
Arco, the UK’s leading safety expert, has launched its most extensive range of safety products to date, bringing over 140 years of experience and expertise, to their PPE and workwear range. The new range includes high-performance PPE, hi-vis clothing, chemical protection, responsible choice workwear, flame-resistant/arc flash garments, working at height
The infrastructure business will continue to leverage data to build new opportunities for both their employees and business, with training provided by Multiverse Infrastructure today announces that it will build out its data academy with Multiverse, following the success of its graduating apprenticeship cohort. In a move that will continue
The North’s most outstanding workplaces have been named, with prestigious British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards presented to six landmark office buildings across the region. On Thursday 3 April at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower, the BCO’s annual Northern Awards recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and
YTL Developments has now submitted a planning application for a landmark Grade-A office building that will be the gateway to Brabazon, located next to the new train station. The new eight-storey office development will be the first permanent commercial space at Brabazon and marks the first step in delivering a business address like no other in North Bristol. Designed by AHR Architects, it will deliver the Grade-A office specification businesses need, as well as the amenities and connectivity that their high-skilled staff expect. At a time when there is a shortage of new commercial buildings in Bristol city centre, Brabazon will now offer the same quality space occupiers would expect from a prime urban location. The new offices will meet modern sustainability standards, targeting EPC A rating, BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5* ratings as well as WiredScore Platinum certification for connectivity. But unlike Aztec West or other dedicated business parks, Brabazon is also a more accessible location. Not only is the new building located immediately above the new station, but it will also actually house a ticket office, making it just the third in the region after Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway to be staffed. “The start of construction on the new station at Brabazon earlier this month is a game changer for North Bristol. “At a time when Central Bristol is struggling to meet demand for top-quality commercial space, now city centre occupiers have a genuine and sustainable alternative. Brabazon will offer all the advantages of the city centre and amazing road access to the M4 and M5, but none of the compromises of traditional uninspiring, car-dependent business parks. “The first new Grade A office space at Brabazon is a landmark moment for the new neighbourhood. Located next to the new train station at Brabazon, it will provide the area’s world-leading commercial cluster with the space, connectivity and opportunity to grow and expand.” The new train station will connect to Bristol Temple Meads in less than 15 minutes, providing easy access to the Ministry of Defence at Filton Abbey Wood and to Bristol University’s new Temple Quarter Campus. In addition, the thousands of staff working at engineering, aviation and technology companies like Airbus, GKN and Rolls-Royce, will now be able to take the train to work from Lawrence Hill, Stapleton Road and Ashley Down. The University of the West of England’s Frenchay Campus is also less than 1.5 miles away from the new station and office, while the M4 MetroBus will connect directly to Bristol Parkway station. Alongside the connectivity, it will also offer employees all the amenities that they would expect of city centre office space. There will be a retail dining space on the ground floor for food, spilling out onto the public square that will be the gateway to the new neighbourhood. 107 cycle spaces and shower facilities will encourage office staff to walk, run or cycle to work. And with the new Arena coming soon, the offices at Brabazon will offer all the lifestyle advantages needed to attract and retain high-skilled talent. This new landmark will comprise 123,330 square feet of Grade A office space in total, located in the heart of North Bristol’s world-leading commercial cluster, where approximately 48,000 people work in high-value manufacturing, life science and technology industries. Up to 800 people are expected to work in the building when it is fully occupied. Typical floor plates measure 13,190 sq ft of net useable space, with the ability to subdivide space into a number of different combinations. YTL Developments has submitted a planning application for the new office building at Brabazon this week. Subject to planning approval, construction would be undertaken by the YTL Group’s in-house contracting firm – YTL Construction UK – and is expected to complete in early 2028. The new commercial buildings are part of YTL Developments’s approved masterplan for Brabazon, which includes over 6,500 new homes, 2,000 beds of student accommodation, and 86 acres of public squares, parks and playing fields. The 3.7m square feet of commercial space will support up to 30,000 jobs, while over £100 million is being invested in sustainable transport infrastructure. Brabazon is already established as one of the best new residential addresses in the West Country. The largest dedicated student accommodation project in the region is currently under construction, while the innovative Boxworks container-based workspace studios are already incubating a new generation of early-stage and start-up businesses. The announcement of the first permanent commercial space at Brabazon is the next stage in the evolution of this award-winning new city district into a thriving new neighbourhood for Bristol. Adam Spall at AHR Architects said: “This new first office building at Brabazon makes a bold statement. It sets a new standard for sustainable design that aligns with the environmental goals of a modern business. The thoughtfully designed ground floor seamlessly blends the private office space with the station entrance, publicly accessible cafe and vibrant public square. “Offering cutting edge amenities, rail connectivity and an inspiring workplace environment, the new building will provide businesses with everything they need to attract the next generation of talent to Bristol.” Visit Brabazon.co.uk to learn more about Station Office building. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Elan Homes is preparing to start work on a 110-home scheme in the Warrington village of Hollins Green. The Cheshire-based business recently acquired a 10.5-acre site off Manchester Road. The land was allocated for housing in the Warrington Local Plan 2021/22 to 2038/39, which was adopted in December 2023. Outline planning permission was secured in April 2024 and reserved matters approval for 110 homes was given by Warrington Borough Council in February 2025. Philip Palmer, land director for Elan Homes in the North, said: “We’re pleased to have acquired this key site, which will help us contribute to Warrington’s housing needs over the coming years. We’ll soon be starting work to prepare the land for new homes with a view to releasing properties for sale in autumn/ winter. The development, known as Hollins View, will offer 77 contemporary private sale properties, 33 affordable homes, plus an equipped play are and open space for residents to enjoy.” Hollins View will offer a choice of two, three and four-bedroom homes. Affordable homes including properties available for rent, shared ownership and under the First Homes scheme, will account for 30% of the new neighbourhood. There will also be one self-build plot available as part of the development. Prices for the homes will be announced at the launch. A package of community investment was agreed during the planning process and will see Elan pay more than £900,000 to the local authority with allocations for education, sports and health facilities, and greenbelt mitigation. Elan anticipates work on site at Hollins View will be completed in 2028. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Travelodge has announced the acquisition of 11 hotels across the UK, marking a major step forward in its ambitious growth plans. The move expands the brand’s UK portfolio to nearly 600 hotels, with the company aiming to open a further 300 nationwide. Nine of the newly acquired sites are former Hotel Campanile properties, comprising a total of 951 rooms. Of these, five are freehold acquisitions, while four are being secured on long leaseholds. The hotels are located in key cities including Birmingham, Bradford, Dartford, Leicester, Liverpool, Manchester, Northampton, Milton Keynes and Swindon. In addition, Travelodge has recently exchanged contracts on two more hotels: a former Ibis in Bromsgrove and the independent CitiLodge in Wakefield. The Bromsgrove site, which features 43 rooms, has been taken on a new 25-year lease and is currently undergoing a full refurbishment to align with Travelodge’s brand standards. It is expected to open in May. Meanwhile, the Wakefield hotel – offering 74 rooms – is being converted to the Travelodge brand by the current owner. Once the refurbishment is complete in August, Travelodge will take on a new 25-year lease at the property. The company has also just opened a fully refitted hotel in Bromley town centre, also formerly an Ibis, following an exchange of contracts in January. Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer at Travelodge, commented:“The acquisition of these hotels marks another positive step in our UK development strategy, as we seek to grow and optimise our estate while enhancing value through a balanced mix of freehold and leasehold properties. There are still many towns and cities across the UK and Spain where we can open a new Travelodge to provide high-quality, great-value accommodation.” He added:“Rebranding and refitting properties is a key element of our growth plan. With over 300 more hotels on our UK target list, we remain actively on the lookout for the right opportunities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sir Robert McAlpine has secured a major £30 million contract to deliver the North East Space Skills & Technology Centre (NESST) for Northumbria University in Newcastle. The appointment follows a pre-construction services agreement (PCSA) and marks a significant step forward in the creation of a cutting-edge facility aimed at driving innovation in the UK’s space sector. Located on Northumbria University’s city campus, the scheme involves the complete demolition, rebuild, and extension of the existing Wynne Jones building. Once complete, the new facility will span seven storeys, including a ground floor and six upper levels, covering a footprint of approximately 900 square metres. Backed by investment from the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin UK Space, NESST is designed to foster collaboration between academia and the space industry. The centre will feature satellite manufacturing clean rooms, advanced prototyping labs, a mission operations centre, state-of-the-art teaching spaces, and collaborative areas tailored for industry partnerships. Construction is already progressing at pace, with steelwork now rising on site. The landmark project is expected to be completed by autumn 2026, reinforcing Newcastle’s position as a key player in the UK’s growing space economy. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work has started on a major new public transport hub for Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, Wales, a key part of the town’s regeneration. Designed by multidisciplinary design practice BDP and built by Kier for Pembrokeshire County Council, the Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange (HPTI) includes the construction of a modern bus station and multi-storey car park, providing a new interchange for buses and coaches, with upgraded passenger facilities. Sustainable features include electric vehicle charging facilities and an array of solar panels on the roof, which will supply the vast majority of the building’s energy usage and help Pembrokeshire County Council meet its commitment to be net zero carbon by 2030. The scheme will include 280 parking spaces, seven bus bays, public toilets and accessible changing facilities for people with disabilities. A traditional groundbreaking event marked the start of work on site. Architects, landscape architects and civil and structural engineers from multidisciplinary design practice BDP designed the transport interchange. Matthew Mayes, architect director at BDP, said: “This transformative regeneration project will enhance connectivity and accessibility for the local community, providing seamless links between bus, taxi, and cycling facilities while improving connections to the riverside, shopping centre, and railway station. “Our design features striking aluminium fins that wrap around the building, creating a modern and dynamic identity, while stone cladding at ground level reflects the town’s historic character. A new public square, enriched with greenery and ample seating, offers a welcoming space for people to relax and engage with their surroundings. “Transport hubs like this are key to the future of urban mobility, encouraging more people to adopt sustainable travel choices that contribute to healthier, more connected communities.” This is a topic explored in BDP’s The Good City initiative, which aims to address some of the most pressing urban challenges by bringing together experts from across the world. Ian Rees, regional director at Kier Construction Western & Wales, said: “We have been on site for a number of months now undertaking essential enabling works, this ground breaking ceremony is an important milestone as we progress into the construction phase of this vitally important transport hub. “This transport interchange for Pembrokeshire County Council will really begin to take shape over the coming weeks and months and will ultimately deliver a much-needed, modern transport hub for the local community, improving connectivity and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.” Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, said: “It’s great to see work starting on this new transport interchange, which is an important part of the wider Haverfordwest Masterplan. It’s designed to make it easy and convenient to visit Haverfordwest town centre which is a key part of our efforts to regenerate the town. “I think we can all agree the previous multi-story car park had reached the end of its useful life. “Once we’ve completed this project, the town centre will be easily accessible both by bus and of course by car with the car park element of the project benefiting from wider spaces, EV Charging, single tap exit and payment and of course a much nicer, lighter and safer environment for users.” Built on the site of a demolished multi-storey car park and bus station, HPTI will form part of the South West Wales Metro project, which aims to better integrate sustainable modes of transport and complements the wider regeneration work in Haverfordwest. The design of HPTI is being funded from the Welsh Government’s Local Transport Fund. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hines UK has made a significant investment in South Yorkshire, acquiring Sheffield’s largest retail park—Drakehouse Retail Park—for £50.75 million. The purchase from 90 North Real Estate Partners reflects a net initial yield of 7.0%. Covering 232,538 sq ft, the prominent out-of-town retail destination features 17 retail units arranged around a central car park with 784 spaces, as well as two standalone drive-through restaurant units. The park boasts a strong line-up of national retailers, including Wickes, B&M, Pets at Home, Currys, JD Sports, Halfords, and Starbucks. According to marketing materials released in September 2024, the scheme had a weighted average unexpired lease term of 6.2 years to expiry and 4.5 years to break. Drakehouse Retail Park currently generates an annualised passing rent of £3.8 million—equivalent to £16.34 per sq ft. Situated seven miles south-east of Sheffield city centre, the park is positioned within a well-established retail warehousing hub. Nearby retail assets include the 600,000 sq ft Crystal Peaks Shopping Centre, the 80,000 sq ft Crystal Peaks Retail Park, and the 40,000 sq ft Crystal Peaks Village. Following the acquisition, Curson Sowerby and Font Real Estate have been appointed as joint agents for the asset by Hines. Green & Partners advised Hines UK on the deal, while Font Real Estate and JLL represented the vendor. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hochiki Europe, a leading manufacturer of innovative life safety solutions, is pleased to announce that its ESP intelligent fire detection range has been installed at a brand new 17,000 square metre storage hub near Galanta, Slovakia. The extensive warehouse facility, owned by KL Logistic, presented a significant fire safety undertaking due to its sheer size and the diverse range of goods stored within its 18-metre high racking. Recognising the critical need for a swift and dependable detection and evacuation system, KL Logistic entrusted the project to Pro Metheus Slovakia, a respected Slovakian fire safety specialist. Pro Metheus Slovakia designed and installed a comprehensive fire safety solution centred around Hochiki Europe’s advanced ESP (Enhanced System Protocol) range. Hundreds of Hochiki ESP optical smoke detectors were strategically positioned throughout the vast building, providing crucial early fire warning capabilities. To ensure complete protection, particularly within the dense racking, Hochiki’s FIRElink aspirating smoke detection system was also implemented, safeguarding even the most inaccessible areas. The entire Hochiki system is seamlessly networked via Hochiki’s ESP protocol. Networked Hochiki HFP control panels serve as the central monitoring and control hub, while ESP input and output modules facilitate seamless integration with the warehouse’s sprinkler system. This integrated approach guarantees a fully coordinated response in the event of a fire. Furthermore, the system incorporates a voice evacuation system. This, combined with the rapid detection capabilities of the Hochiki system, ensures the safe and efficient evacuation of all warehouse personnel in any emergency. “The scale and complexity of the KL Logistic warehouse demanded a fire detection system that was both powerful and dependable,” commented Tibor Lelkes, CEO of Pro Metheus Fire. “Hochiki’s comprehensive product portfolio, coupled with their sophisticated networking capabilities, enabled us to design a solution that precisely met the client’s specific requirements. The inclusion of the voice evacuation system was a key factor in providing KL Logistic with complete peace of mind. We are proud to have delivered a system that significantly enhances the safety of their employees and protects their valuable assets.” To find out more about the project at KL Logistic and the ESP range and the FIRELink system, please visit the Hochiki website. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Arco, the UK’s leading safety expert, has launched its most extensive range of safety products to date, bringing over 140 years of experience and expertise, to their PPE and workwear range. The new range includes high-performance PPE, hi-vis clothing, chemical protection, responsible choice workwear, flame-resistant/arc flash garments, working at height products, and gloves – all designed, developed and tested by Arco, focused on compliance through quality, sustainability and ethical responsibility, the range is Arco made. Arco tested. Designed to exceed industry standards, by Arco experts, with performance, compliance and responsible manufacturing in mind. The new range brings cost-effective safety equipment to customers without compromising on quality, included in the range: All Arco products are designed to the highest of safety standards, surpassing basic industry criteria and are rigorously tested in the company’s independent UKAS and SATRA accredited Product Assurance Laboratory and backed by its unique five-step product assurance process. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) found that between December 2023 and December 2024, only 10% of non-member products tested fully met compliance standards – underscoring the importance of trusted suppliers.[1] Simon Allan-Brooks, Chief Commercial Officer at Arco, said: “At a time when non-compliant products are easier to purchase and harder to spot than ever before, workers need to be confident that what they’re purchasing will protect them. Our new range has been a cornerstone in our safety products offering, enabling customers to purchase all of the necessary items for their working environment at a competitive price, with the peace of mind that the products will keep them safe. “Revitalising this portfolio with modernised, responsible and optimised safety equipment, designed and tested by Arco means that customers can be confident they are making the ethical, quality and compliant choice. Our commitment to workplace safety has never wavered and with over 140 years of safety experience woven into every product, customers can trust that they and their workers are in safe hands. When it comes to protecting your people, chance nothing.” To support the launch, Arco is investing in national advertising across TV, digital streaming, outdoor media, radio, and paid social. The full range is also available to explore in person at the Arco Discovery Centre in Hull—offering a hands-on experience of Arco’s innovative approach to safety. Visitors to the Health and Safety Event at Birmingham NEC (8th–10th April) had the opportunity to explore the new range first-hand. The launch was showcased at the event, giving attendees a preview of Arco’s latest innovations in compliant, high-performance safety products—backed by over a century of expertise.Explore the full Arco range and find out more: www.arco.co.uk/arco-range Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The infrastructure business will continue to leverage data to build new opportunities for both their employees and business, with training provided by Multiverse Infrastructure today announces that it will build out its data academy with Multiverse, following the success of its graduating apprenticeship cohort. In a move that will continue to boost business potential through data-driven decision making, the upskilling initiative marks Morgan Sindall Infrastructure’s continued commitment to investing in its people. The forthcoming launch will bring the total number of employees who have enrolled on digital and data programmes with Multiverse to 80. Impact across the business has been substantial since the inception of the academy. The most recent cohort saw a 14% increase in individual efficiency during the programme – equating to more than 7,200 hours saved per year. Apprentices have used improved data skills to drive tangible business outcomes, from mitigating weather-related project delays, to reducing workplace safety incidents, to increasing visibility of potential quality issues. Following their completion of the programme, 86% of the graduating cohort achieved a distinction. One apprentice who drove significant impact on programme is James Macdonald, who developed skills in Python, SQL and PowerBI. He said: “I’ve already benefited from learning how to conduct hypothesis tests and build regression models in Python. I’ve been able to apply this in my work on our carbon calculation tool, to predict the carbon footprint of forthcoming projects, which will be really valuable. And elsewhere I’ve already seen value in data skills reducing time spent gathering information for reporting dashboards.” Multiverse’s 2024 Skills Intelligence Report revealed that in construction, 29% of employees’ time working with data is spent unproductively. Morgan Sindall Infrastructure’s continued commitment to upskilling, however, will enable its teams to automate processes and tasks, leading to a significant boost in efficiency and output. Sarah Reid, Managing Director –for Water & Highways at Morgan Sindall Infrastructure said: “The Digital and Data Academy is part of our ongoing commitment to developing and protecting our people, ensuring they have the right tools and knowledge to thrive in a fast-paced industry. Having the skills to harness data effectively will not only improve efficiency across the business but also create opportunities for personal and professional growth.” Multiverse combines work and learning to unlock economic opportunity for everyone. It works with more than 1,500 organisations to close critical skill gaps in the workforce in AI, data and technology. Gary Eimerman, Chief Learning officer at Multiverse said: “Data is transforming the future of the construction industry. By taking a forward-thinking approach to close the data skills gap, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure will deliver measurable benefits for both its business and its people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The North’s most outstanding workplaces have been named, with prestigious British Council for Offices (BCO) Awards presented to six landmark office buildings across the region. On Thursday 3 April at Manchester’s Kimpton Clocktower, the BCO’s annual Northern Awards recognised projects that demonstrate best practice in office design, fit-out, operation and sustainability, setting the standard for excellence across the diverse sector. The BCO Regional Award winners in each category for the North were: Highly Commended workplaces were: The BCO Northern Awards judging panel was chaired by Adam Tillis, Operations Director of Dragonfly Contracts, alongside Nathalie Baxter, Head of Workspace (Strategy) at the Home Group; Danielle Ford, Associate Director at GenNorth; Lee Treanor, Director at HBD; Richmal Wigglesworth, Associate Partner at Sheppard Robson. Commenting on each of the winners, the BCO judges noted: Winner in the Projects up to 2,500 sqm category, Henry Boot Group’s (HBG) new headquarters at Isaacs Building, Sheffield, is a workplace transformation that exemplifies modern, flexible, and sustainable design. The judges noted: ‘This relocation from the historic Banner Cross Hall represents a significant cultural shift, fostering collaboration and innovation. Sustainability was central to the project, which achieved a BREEAM Very Good rating and reducing carbon emissions by 79%. By aligning workplace strategy with HBG’s net-zero 2030 goal, the new headquarters enhances employee engagement, boosts productivity, and sets a benchmark for sustainable workspaces. This forward-thinking approach solidifies HBG’s reputation as a leader in progressive workplace design and environmental responsibility.’ As Refurbished/Recycled Workplace of the Year, the Foundation redevelopment in Altrincham is an award-winning transformation, repurposing the former Rackhams department store into a dynamic hub for work, leisure, and community engagement. Judges noted that the project revitalises the town centre, providing a new gateway with modern offices, co-working spaces, retail, and dining: ‘Foundation sets a new benchmark for urban regeneration, proving that adaptive reuse can drive long-term economic and social impact.’ Deloitte’s office at 100 Embankment, Salford, was named champion in the Fit Out of Workplace category. Judges said: ‘This award-winning office exemplifies innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, setting new benchmarks for hybrid working environments. The 6,085 sqm space is designed to foster collaboration, flexibility, and well-being, incorporating cutting-edge technology, sustainable materials, and dynamic workspaces. This transformative workplace embodies Deloitte’s vision, creating a thriving community hub that redefines employee experience and business innovation.’ West Village in Leeds received the Corporate Workplace award for masterfully unifying two separate buildings into a single, cohesive estate, anchored by a striking 20,000 sq ft extension that forms a bold gateway. Judges said: ‘The 115,000 sq ft transformation redefines modern workspace design, prioritising innovation, sustainability, and employee well-being. The fit-out seamlessly blends biophilia, advanced technology, and flexible work environments. Key features include a fully landscaped courtyard and an open-plan entrance, eliminating a traditional reception to create a more welcoming atmosphere. With collaborative workspaces, wellness facilities, inspiring art installations, and Net Zero Carbon strategies achieving an EPC A rating, this project sets a new benchmark for contemporary workplace excellence.’ A double winner in the ESG and Commercial Workplace categories, Eden in Salford was highly praised by the BCO judges: ‘Eden is a groundbreaking, award-winning office development that sets a new standard for sustainable workplaces. This 12-storey, Net Zero Carbon building features Europe’s largest living wall – an astonishing 3,300m² of greenery with 350,000 plants, redefining urban biodiversity. As the UK’s first 5.5-star NABERS UK Design Reviewed project, alongside BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A ratings, it proves that commercial spaces can be both high-performance and environmentally responsible. Beyond sustainability, Eden’s social impact is equally transformative; it prioritises well-being, offering a vibrant social hub including local business Spice & Grind, wellness spaces, and a rooftop terrace.’ Oldham Spindles was given the Innovation award for its groundbreaking, adaptive reuse of a building that has transformed a struggling 1990s shopping centre into a vibrant, multi-functional workplace and community hub. Judges commented: ‘Oldham Spindles is an innovative project that reimagines urban regeneration, proving that underutilised retail spaces can be repurposed for modern office environments. It sets a bold precedent for repurposing failing retail assets into thriving workspaces. A combination of architectural ingenuity, sustainability, and social impact makes it a worthy recipient of the BCO Innovation Award, showcasing a transformative model for urban regeneration.’ Alex Stork, Regional Committee Chair for the BCO, said: ‘This year’s BCO Northern Awards winners exemplify excellence in office design. These outstanding workspaces demonstrate how innovative strategies in well-being, sustainability, and community engagement can create remarkable commercial environments where people take pride in working. ‘The North continues to lead with some of the most exciting office developments, fuelled by collaborations between forward-thinking organisations, local authorities, and expert design and build specialists. Our judges were highly impressed by the exceptional quality of submissions this year. We extend our congratulations to the winners and those highly commended, and we eagerly anticipate the ongoing growth of the region’s office landscape.’ The Northern region winners will now compete for the BCO National Awards in October 2025. More details will be announced soon. The lead sponsor for this year’s BCO Awards is AET Flexible Space. Gold sponsors are AECOM, Glamox and Troup Bywaters + Anders. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
