Southbank is poised to become one of Central London’s most dynamic commercial hubs, with a larger office development pipeline than any other market in the capital, according to new research from global real estate advisor CBRE. CBRE’s latest data reveals that Southbank’s total office stock stood at 19.5 million sq
McPhillips has been awarded a £10 million contract by Hereford Council to construct the city’s new Transport Hub. The project is part of a broader strategy to improve travel and connectivity across the city, encouraging a shift away from car dependency and supporting more sustainable transport options. The new Hub
Industrial property developer Indurent has submitted a planning application for the final phase of development at Indurent Park Longbridge West, marking a significant step in the ongoing transformation of the former MG Rover site. The proposed £30 million scheme includes over 339,000 sq ft of industrial and logistics space, alongside
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has successfully completed the unique and intricate task of removing the original roof from the iconic Grade II Listed Central Building at the Castle Meadow Campus for University of Nottingham. As part of a comprehensive refurbishment to extend the life of this architectural city landmark,
This Earth Day, Organic Architects explores how distilleries can take practical steps toward a more sustainable future. Whisky might be made from just three simple ingredients; water, yeast, and grain, but there’s a fourth element that plays a big role in how it’s produced: energy. Distilling whisky takes a lot
Notting Hill Genesis has agreed to sell 10,000 square feet of new high-quality workspace to long-term partner Bow Arts Trust in the heart of Hackney Wick. The space will deliver 38 affordable studio units, designed to support local creatives and small enterprises. Currently under construction and due to complete in
Three leading North East contractors have joined forces with Sunderland-based housing association Gentoo in a landmark £170 million deal to modernise thousands of homes across the city. Esh Construction, Re:Gen Group North East, and PHS Home Solutions (trading as 0800 Repair) have partnered with Gentoo to launch Gentogether—a long-term strategic
Leading asset and property management firm Estama has been appointed to oversee Festival Place in Basingstoke—one of the UK’s largest shopping centres—in a landmark deal that marks a new chapter for both the company and the centre. The appointment is a significant moment for Estama, coming soon after the firm
Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has appointed CBRE to bring a 20 acre former campus site to market. The former IM Marsh campus site in Aigburth is for sale as a development opportunity, with CBRE seeking offers by 28th May on either an unconditional or subject to planning basis. Situated
An upsurge in business, with orders for aggregate plants, equipment and services, has led Midlands headquartered Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies to undertake an all-encompassing recruitment drive. Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies (QMS) is a wholly owned and family run company located in the heart of England. Since its inception, QMS has
Southbank is poised to become one of Central London’s most dynamic commercial hubs, with a larger office development pipeline than any other market in the capital, according to new research from global real estate advisor CBRE. CBRE’s latest data reveals that Southbank’s total office stock stood at 19.5 million sq ft at the end of 2024, with the potential to expand to 21.3 million sq ft by 2029. With 4.1 million sq ft of development and refurbishment projects currently under construction or with planning consent, the area is on track for significant growth in both volume and value. Notably, CBRE anticipates that by 2029, Southbank will overtake the wider Docklands market—including Canary Wharf—in terms of total office stock. This expansion is set to drive strong rental growth. Prime rents in Southbank are forecast to rise from £80psf to £100.50psf by 2029, representing an annual growth rate of 4.7%. Only the City core is expected to outpace this with a projected growth of 5% over the same period. Simon Brown, Head of UK Office Research at CBRE, commented:“With supply constrained in areas like Mayfair & St. James’s and the City Core, markets that can deliver large-scale, grade-A office space are best positioned to thrive. Southbank, alongside well-connected and established areas like Docklands, offers an increasingly compelling option for occupiers seeking high-quality space in the heart of London.” Southbank’s growing appeal is underpinned by its unique blend of cultural attractions, green open spaces, and excellent transport connectivity. The area is also rich in residential stock, with three of the largest Inner London boroughs—Wandsworth (155,000 dwellings), Lambeth (147,000), and Southwark (145,000)—located within its boundaries. Between 2025 and 2029, Southbank is expected to deliver 4,200 new residential units, second only to Docklands, which is forecast to add 7,600 homes. Alastair Perks, Head of London Development & Asset Renewal at CBRE, added:“It’s an area buzzing with cultural amenities and entertainment venues. Combined with strong infrastructure and green spaces, the case for continued office development and investment is clear. Sustainability is also front and centre, with major schemes designed to support Southbank’s ambition to become a net-zero neighbourhood by 2030.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
McPhillips has been awarded a £10 million contract by Hereford Council to construct the city’s new Transport Hub. The project is part of a broader strategy to improve travel and connectivity across the city, encouraging a shift away from car dependency and supporting more sustainable transport options. The new Hub will feature upgraded bus stands and layovers, dedicated taxi and car parking, including both commuter and short-term spaces, as well as enhanced facilities for cyclists, such as covered cycle stands and lockers. Passengers will also benefit from improved indoor welfare amenities. Designed to offer reliable connections between bus, rail, cycling and walking routes, the Hub aims to enhance accessibility and reduce congestion while improving air quality in the area around the station. Andrew Dunham, contracts director at McPhillips, said: “Having worked on significant public realm and transport projects over the years for different local authorities, we know how transformative these spaces can be. “We have a genuine commitment to improving our local communities and the team at McPhillips is looking forward to delivering a hub which will make moving around the city easier and more sustainable for everyone.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Industrial property developer Indurent has submitted a planning application for the final phase of development at Indurent Park Longbridge West, marking a significant step in the ongoing transformation of the former MG Rover site. The proposed £30 million scheme includes over 339,000 sq ft of industrial and logistics space, alongside high-quality ancillary office facilities, spread across 13 individual units. Located 12 kilometres southwest of Birmingham city centre, the site was once home to the iconic MG Rover car manufacturing plant, which ceased operations in 2005. Now, nearly two decades later, it is set to be reborn as a modern business hub. Once completed, the development is expected to generate approximately 590 full-time jobs, in addition to 280 roles during the construction phase. Jessica Evans, Senior Planning Manager at Indurent, said:“This planning application marks a major milestone for Indurent and the wider regeneration of Longbridge. The development will deliver modern, high-quality employment space—attracting investment, driving job creation, and boosting the local economy. As we approach 20 years since the closure of the MG Rover plant, this site is starting a new chapter as a centre for business and innovation. We look forward to working closely with the local authority and community to bring these plans to life and ensure they deliver lasting benefits for Longbridge.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has successfully completed the unique and intricate task of removing the original roof from the iconic Grade II Listed Central Building at the Castle Meadow Campus for University of Nottingham. As part of a comprehensive refurbishment to extend the life of this architectural city landmark, the original PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) roof has been replaced with a modern tensile structure, the latest generation in PVDF fabrics. Originally designed and installed in 1994 by Hopkins Architects and Arup, the roof is described as one of the most complicated roof structures in Europe. Prior to G F Tomlinson starting on site, the building was given a Grade II Listed status and at 30-years old is one of the youngest buildings to achieve this. This presented additional challenges to ensure the heritage requirements were met, whilst adhering to the original refurbishment needs. The building’s entire framework has been carefully refurbished to preserve its structural integrity and historical significance – a process which began mid-2024, with the removal of the building’s glass elements, repainting of the structural frame and refurbishing of key components. Temporary rigging and birdcage scaffolding were installed to stabilise the frame, while sections of the roof were removed in sequence, starting with the North and South sections, followed by the Main Roof Central section with its three floating Oculi and finally the East and West. Structural strengthening, including additional welding and the replacement of worn components was carried out before the placement of the new fabric. The project continues to progress, with the installation of a new glulam mezzanine floor to enhance the building’s functionality and a new central glass roof box to ensure plenty of natural light into the building. The final stages will include installation of new laminated glass to the roof, designed to meet modern building standards. The university are displaying some of the original structural parts of the building at the Castle Meadow Campus to showcase the architectural elements and to preserve the legacy of the building’s original design. This project has involved exceptional engineering feats – the new roof spans approximately 4,500 sq. metres, equivalent to the size of seven tennis courts, and the scaffolding used as a working platform for the replacement weighed 60 tonnes and stood seven meters tall, covering a platform area of 945 square meters. Over 5,000 bolts were removed and replaced, while 15 tonnes of existing glass will be reinstalled, complemented by an additional four tonnes of new glass within the facade. These significant works have been delivered in collaboration with Bond Bryan Architects and Arup Consultants. Specialist contractors, Base Structures have been responsible for the fabric replacement, with Novum Structures installing the glass box and internal glazed roof lights, underscoring the importance of preserving historical buildings while modernising them to meet current standards. As work progresses, G F Tomlinson remains committed to ensuring the Central Building continues to inspire future generations with its blend of innovation and heritage. Adrian Grocock, Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: “The Central Building project is a perfect example of how we combine innovative construction methods with heritage expertise to deliver transformative projects. The roof replacement represents a significant achievement, and we are proud to be playing a key role in extending the life of this iconic structure. Our longstanding working relationship with University of Nottingham, spanning over more than 7 capital projects has allowed us to contribute to the campus’s evolution and provide world-class facilities that reflect its reputation for excellence.” Fraser Shirley, Director and Project Manager at Base Structures said: “Having built many of the UKs most notable fabric canopies Base Structures fully appreciated the significance of this elegant and refined structure. The integrated tensegrity design was one of the first of its kind, making this a truly unique project. “The fabric replacement works on the Central Building was far from straightforward, presenting an incredibly challenging task as the original builders had never intended for it to be replaced. Due to the sensitive nature of the structure, a meticulous and carefully planned methodology was essential to minimise excessive loading on its components. Significant input from Tensys Ltd was instrumental in developing this approach. The success of this project was ultimately down to the vast experiences with the Tensys and Base design, project and site teams, who in collaboration with the main contractor, G F Tomlinson, carried out the works safely and seamlessly, ensuring the structure’s integrity was maintained throughout. Base Structures are proud to have played a part in extending its lifespan.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
This Earth Day, Organic Architects explores how distilleries can take practical steps toward a more sustainable future. Whisky might be made from just three simple ingredients; water, yeast, and grain, but there’s a fourth element that plays a big role in how it’s produced: energy. Distilling whisky takes a lot of heat and power, and for a long time, that’s meant using fossil fuels. But things are changing. Around the world, a new generation of distilleries is showing that there are cleaner, smarter ways to make great whisky. This Earth Day, Organic Architects, experts in designing sustainable distilleries, are sharing practical ways the industry can reduce its carbon footprint through thoughtful design and energy-conscious choices. Reuse before you rebuild One of the easiest ways to reduce environmental impact is by making use of existing buildings. Many old industrial buildings have the space, ventilation, and character that work well for whisky production. Reusing them means less demand for new construction materials, and that means fewer carbon emissions. It also gives distilleries a strong sense of identity by connecting them to a place and its history. Plan ahead for flexibility Good design at the start makes sustainability much easier down the road. Green technologies, like heat recovery systems, biomass boilers, or large-scale batteries, often need space and planning from day one. By thinking ahead, distilleries can avoid expensive changes later and stay open to future innovations. Use local energy Sometimes the best energy options are right outside. Depending on where they’re located, distilleries can take advantage of natural resources like wind, solar, biomass, tidal energy, or even hydrogen. For example, a distillery on a windy coastline might be able to tap into wind power, reducing its need for fossil fuels. Start with using less Before switching to renewable energy, it’s important to first look at how to use less energy overall. Simple changes like installing heat pumps can make a big difference. Reducing energy use makes it easier and more cost-effective to transition to cleaner power sources later on. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution Every distillery is different. What works for one location might not work for another. The best energy choices depend on what’s available, whether it’s cheap timber, access to renewable electricity, or future access to hydrogen networks. Cutting down on energy use per litre of alcohol is one of the biggest steps distilleries can take to become more sustainable. Technologies like heat recovery and water recycling are already helping many reduce their impact. Don’t forget about people Sustainability is about more than just the environment; it’s also about people and communities. Distilleries can play a key role in supporting rural areas, offering steady, skilled jobs that keep families in communities that might have otherwise left, and even exporting spare energy to local homes or community facilities. This kind of social sustainability is just as important and is often overlooked. New distilleries have a special opportunity. With no legacy systems holding them back, they can build sustainability into everything they do, from energy systems to community support. By embracing thoughtful design and choosing solutions that fit their unique location, they can honour whisky’s heritage while helping to shape a greener future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Notting Hill Genesis has agreed to sell 10,000 square feet of new high-quality workspace to long-term partner Bow Arts Trust in the heart of Hackney Wick. The space will deliver 38 affordable studio units, designed to support local creatives and small enterprises. Currently under construction and due to complete in late 2026, the studios form part of the wider Hackney Yards development, which Notting Hill Genesis is delivering in partnership with the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). The project comprises three sites near Hackney Wick Overground station and will provide over 190 affordable residential units, including 31 for social rent, alongside more than 4,000 square metres of commercial space, over 25% of which will be affordable. This sale marks a significant milestone for Bow Arts Trust, as it is the second permanent acquisition in the charity’s 30-year history, which enables them to support artists with long-lasting, affordable workspace. Part-funded by Arts Council England, the agreement represents a long-term investment in Hackney Wick’s creative infrastructure. Bow Arts’ plans for the site were a key element of the Notting Hill Genesis bid that was successfully selected by LLDC to develop the site in 2021. George Clarke, Head of Communities and Commercial Properties at Notting Hill Genesis, said: “We are over the moon to secure this deal to sell the affordable workspace to our long-term partners Bow Arts Trust, following our success at Royal Albert Wharf. This is a real milestone in establishing long term, affordable creative space in the heart of Hackney Wick.” One of the key reasons NHG selected Bow Arts is their proven track record in delivering genuinely affordable workspace, especially when compared to the cost models of other operators in the area. Bow Arts’ lettings strategy puts local creatives first, prioritising Hackney Wick artists and small creative enterprises. Crucially, its rental model is designed with affordability at its core — ensuring access for emerging talent. Workspaces will be priced at around 34% below the local average, helping to protect and sustain Hackney Wick’s creative community for the long term. Marcel Baettig, CEO of Bow Arts Trust, said: “Partnerships make it possible for us to keep artist workspace affordable, retain creative talent, and really invest in artists and the arts. We are inspired by our long-term partners, Notting Hill Genesis, and its commitment to sustaining local community, and supporting creativity to thrive.” Importantly, all occupiers will be asked to actively contribute to the local community through workshops, exhibitions, and outreach, reflecting a shared commitment to placemaking and social value between Bow Arts and Notting Hill Genesis. In parallel, NHG will work closely with Bow Arts to develop and manage a placemaking and community benefit programme. This will deliver creative and cultural activity at the development, ranging from public exhibitions and events to classes and workshops for adults and children, helping to embed arts and culture into the heart of the new neighbourhood. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Three leading North East contractors have joined forces with Sunderland-based housing association Gentoo in a landmark £170 million deal to modernise thousands of homes across the city. Esh Construction, Re:Gen Group North East, and PHS Home Solutions (trading as 0800 Repair) have partnered with Gentoo to launch Gentogether—a long-term strategic alliance focused on improving customers’ homes and creating meaningful social value in the region. The internal modernisation contracts, valued at £170 million over the next decade, will see significant upgrades to properties, including electrical rewires and the replacement of kitchens and bathrooms. In the first three years alone, around £36.5 million will be invested to refurbish approximately 3,000 homes. At the heart of the Gentogether initiative is a community-first approach that prioritises customer experience and collaboration. By removing competition between contractors and fostering shared goals, the model is designed to enhance service delivery and long-term impact. The partnership is also projected to generate over £32 million in social value during its lifespan, supporting job creation, apprenticeships, and training opportunities for local people. Gentoo has appointed 4i Solutions as contract consultant to ensure best value is achieved throughout the programme. Peter Akers, Gentoo’s Asset Director, said:“To improve our service to customers, we’re launching Gentogether—a unique approach to partnerships that allows us to collaborate openly and transparently with trusted contractors. This isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about investing in people, skills, and our communities. Our customers will benefit from upgraded homes, and the wider region will see real economic and social gains. I’m genuinely excited about what this partnership will deliver.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading asset and property management firm Estama has been appointed to oversee Festival Place in Basingstoke—one of the UK’s largest shopping centres—in a landmark deal that marks a new chapter for both the company and the centre. The appointment is a significant moment for Estama, coming soon after the firm transitioned to an Employee Ownership Trust. It also continues the company’s steady growth, expanding its managed portfolio across the UK retail landscape. Festival Place spans an impressive 1.2 million sq ft and is home to over 180 retailers including high street giants such as Next, Marks & Spencer, Sports Direct, H&M, and Rituals. The centre also offers more than 20 dining options and a 10-screen Vue cinema, positioning it as a major retail and leisure destination. Under its new dual role as asset and property manager, Estama has been tasked with revitalising the centre’s performance—boosting leasing activity, refining the retail mix, and increasing net operating income. With current occupancy at 77%, well below the industry average of 89%, Estama sees significant scope for transformation. The firm’s wider portfolio, by contrast, boasts a 98% occupancy rate. Estama’s immediate focus will be on stabilising operations and attracting a mix of well-known brands and independent local traders to fill vacant units. (Left to right) Eoin Conway, Ross Campbell, and George Grimes Eoin Conway, Managing Director of Estama, commented:“This appointment is a moment of real pride for our team and a milestone for Estama since becoming employee-owned. It also showcases our joined-up approach—our asset and property management teams, led by Ross Campbell and George Grimes, have worked hand in hand to secure this win. We’ve built steady, sustainable growth over the past 18 months, and this latest instruction reflects the trust our clients continue to place in us. That’s what drives us.” Looking ahead, tenant engagement will be a key priority. Estama plans to foster strong relationships with occupiers and local stakeholders to create a dynamic and relevant retail offer for the community. Ross Campbell, Director and Head of Asset Management at Estama, added:“Retail is evolving rapidly, and so must the centres we manage. At Festival Place, we see real opportunity to reshape both the retail and leisure line-up to better meet the needs of local shoppers. Despite headwinds in the market, we’re seeing strong tenant demand, improving footfall, and an active leasing pipeline for 2025 and 2026. With our research-led approach and wide retailer network, we aim to deliver the right mix for the local catchment.” GCW and Lunson Mitchenall remain the retained letting agents for Festival Place. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has appointed CBRE to bring a 20 acre former campus site to market. The former IM Marsh campus site in Aigburth is for sale as a development opportunity, with CBRE seeking offers by 28th May on either an unconditional or subject to planning basis. Situated off Barkhill Road in a South Liverpool suburb, four miles from Liverpool City Centre, the overall brownfield site contains a range of buildings varying in age and architectural style which were used as teaching accommodation, halls of residences and indoor facilities along with a number of redundant playing pitches. The buildings, which include two with Grade II listed status, comprise a combined circa 213,000 sq ft. The site sale is in-keeping with the university’s estates strategy which has been focused on bringing all activities into the city centre to work more efficiently and sustainably. Over recent years, students have increasingly opted for city-based teaching and living accommodation. With a student population of over 27,000, LJMU has responded by investing in high quality campus facilities in both the city centre and around the Mount Pleasant area, including the development of the former Copperas Hill site which now features the award-winning student life building and sports facilities. Kieran McLaughlin, Senior Director, UK Development & Residential at CBRE, said; “The university vacated the site a number of years ago with no teaching or other student-facing activity at IM Marsh since 2020. The site has been secured throughout that time and the university has been actively engaged with the neighbourhood to keep local residents updated and informed. The release of the IM Marsh site will allow LJMU to invest further in developing student-facing services, specialist facilities and the continued maintenance of an extensive campus portfolio in the city centre. “Land such as this is in high demand and we are looking forward to reviewing bids from interested parties seeking to bring this vacant site back into use to contribute to the local economy.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An upsurge in business, with orders for aggregate plants, equipment and services, has led Midlands headquartered Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies to undertake an all-encompassing recruitment drive. Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies (QMS) is a wholly owned and family run company located in the heart of England. Since its inception, QMS has passionately striven to deliver exceptional engineering, designing, developing and delivering process solutions that support customers in the quarrying, mining, recycling and demolition industries. QMS is today recognised as Europe’s premier manufacturer of aftermarket crusher spares, wear parts and bespoke processing equipment. The Coalville headquartered company has in recent years built on its success, supplying parts, services, and bespoke solutions throughout the UK, and increasingly throughout Europe and the rest of the world. In recent months the company has installed aggregate production facilities for some of the biggest names in the industry including Breedon Aggregates, Tarmac and Heidelberg Cement. In addition, the export side of the business is thriving with recent orders for its leading cone crushers to customers in Belgium, France and East Africa as well as a large bespoke quarry plant in Romania. “QMS continues to set an ever-increasing standard, not only meeting the needs of our customers, but also exceeding them, delivering a diverse range of products, solutions, and services through extensive industry knowledge, innovation and exceptional engineering ability,” said company managing director Jonathan Beck. “We operate from an extensive purpose-built facility, as well as other UK locations, and have established a robust and efficient network for supporting customers throughout the UK and across the globe.” QMS possesses fully equipped manufacturing and repairs workshops, placing a premium on investment in its people, technologies, processes and supplier partnerships, continuing to raise the bar in manufacturing excellence, aiming to deliver, at all times, exceptional service and outstanding value. As well as adding to its existing extensive offering, QMS is now undergoing an expansion, with a new additional purpose built manufacturing facility set to be completed by the end of 2025. This will sit alongside the existing factory and offices in Coalville. In order to support its growing customer base, QMS has recently announced a major recruitment drive. “We have numerous vacancies for highly trained and motivated people who wish to contribute to our growing success. We would love to hear from design engineers, technicians and fitters who would like to contribute to our further success,” said Jonathan, who added, “And to help with our new staff, we also are looking for a dedicated and exceptional HR manager to join our management team.” Interested parties are advised to contact Jonathan Beck at Quarry Manufacturing & Supplies in Coalville. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
