Midgard has been appointed as the main contractor for a striking new residential development in the heart of Birmingham, as the city continues to attract major investment and architectural ambition. Developers Court Collaboration and Select Property have awarded Midgard a £145 million contract to deliver the much-anticipated Edition Birmingham scheme.
From cutting-edge sustainability to inclusive design and wellbeing-focused spaces, this year’s British Council for Offices (BCO) Regional Awards have showcased the very best in workplace innovation across the South of England, South Wales, Midlands, and Central England. Across two ceremonies—one held at We The Curious in Bristol and the other
To mark the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week (12 May – 18 May 2025), The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has today released its latest figures for its mental health training. Since 2018, CITB has supported over 52,000 construction workers to complete mental health training – vital support for
Hammerson is set to take full control of Brent Cross, one of Greater London’s most prominent shopping centres, as part of its ongoing strategy to strengthen its retail portfolio. The real estate investment trust has announced its intention to acquire the remaining 59% stake in the centre, currently held by
CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) and Scottish media company, DC Thomson, have entered into a long-term facilities management agreement, enabling a step-change in the delivery of technical services across DC Thomson’s property portfolio. As part of the agreement, CBRE will deliver hard services across 17 sites, which include Dundee, Aberdeen,
Project will establish Europe’s first advanced uranium fuels production facility to power the next generation of nuclear reactors Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, has been chosen to design a ground-breaking advanced fuels production facility for Urenco, global suppliers of uranium enrichment services and fuel cycle products for power generation. The
Plans to create a dynamic new commercial hub in Warwickshire – as part of a wider regeneration scheme – will be showcased at a major property forum. Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), Warwickshire County Council’s arms-length property development company, will show off its vision for Fusiliers Way, located between
Midgard has been appointed as the main contractor for a striking new residential development in the heart of Birmingham, as the city continues to attract major investment and architectural ambition. Developers Court Collaboration and Select Property have awarded Midgard a £145 million contract to deliver the much-anticipated Edition Birmingham scheme. The project will bring 581 new homes to the city centre, with construction expected to break ground in the coming months. Phase one is scheduled for completion in 2027. Located adjacent to Centenary Square and near the landmark £1.2 billion Paradise development, Edition Birmingham will feature one- and two-bedroom apartments split across two distinctive towers: the 46-storey Centenary Tower and the 15-storey Park Residence. The development is already seeing strong demand, having secured £85 million in off-plan sales. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) is acting as engineering consultant, while Weedon Architects is leading the interior design. Midgard, a subsidiary of JRL Group, brings proven high-rise expertise to the table, currently completing the 65-storey Consort Place in London’s Canary Wharf and Court Collaboration’s One Eastside in Birmingham. The contractor plans to use modular construction methods to accelerate the delivery of the Edition project, incorporating modern features such as floor-to-ceiling vent screens, mechanical ventilation systems, triple glazing, and air-source heat pumps. “Edition will be a major milestone in the redevelopment of the Birmingham skyline and we are excited to be involved in such a high-quality development,” said Kevin Keegan, Director at Midgard. Alex Neale, Chief Executive at Court Collaboration, added: “Edition Birmingham is visually stunning and will be built to the very highest standards of safety and quality. We’re very pleased to have Midgard on board and look forward to breaking ground and bringing this world-class development to Birmingham.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
From cutting-edge sustainability to inclusive design and wellbeing-focused spaces, this year’s British Council for Offices (BCO) Regional Awards have showcased the very best in workplace innovation across the South of England, South Wales, Midlands, and Central England. Across two ceremonies—one held at We The Curious in Bristol and the other at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham—14 outstanding office projects were celebrated for redefining what it means to design a workplace fit for the future. Whether delivering high-performance refurbishments or ground-breaking new builds, each project stands as a testament to the evolving needs of occupiers, blending technology, ESG credentials, and employee-centric features. People-first design leads the way Across both regions, a strong theme emerged: offices are no longer just places to work—they are environments that foster connection, productivity and wellbeing. This shift was clear in projects like Dojo’s Bristol HQ, which won Best Fit Out Workplace in the South. The 54,770 sq ft space features barista bars, graffiti by local artists, and biophilic elements, underlining a clear commitment to employee experience and sustainability. Meanwhile, in the Midlands, Project Arden in Coventry scooped the same accolade, recognised for its flexible hybrid-ready layout and SKA Gold certification achieved through carbon-conscious fit-out choices. The project impressed judges for its teamwork and user-focused design, creating a truly collaborative space for Cambridge University Press & Assessment. Heritage meets innovation Creative reuse also took centre stage, with judges awarding multiple prizes to exceptional refurbishments and conversions. The Entopia Building in Cambridge—winner of the Refurbished/Recycled Workplace award—transformed a 1930s telephone exchange into a globally pioneering sustainability hub, achieving EnerPHit Classic, WELL Gold and BREEAM Outstanding ratings. In the South, BLOK Bristol was similarly applauded for turning a dated 1980s office into a vibrant, carbon-conscious workplace. Its lively communal lounge, coffee shop and flexible leasing options made it a model for futureproof urban workspaces. And in Shrewsbury, history took a new lease of life at Flaxmill Maltings. Once dubbed the ‘grandparent of skyscrapers’, the restored 18th-century mill now hosts workspaces, a café and community hub—earning it the Innovation award for the Midlands and Central region. Sustainability takes centre stage Sustainability was not a side note in this year’s awards—it was a core differentiator. In Reading, ONE Station Hill stood out for its BREEAM Outstanding, all-electric, net-zero carbon design. Its pre-letting to firms such as PepsiCo and PwC highlights the demand for future-ready buildings that also elevate the employee experience with fitness suites and rooftop terraces. Unusual HQ in Northampton took things a step further—designed for full disassembly, built from reclaimed materials and generating more energy than it consumes, it was hailed as a “pioneering achievement” by BCO judges. Meanwhile, Unity Place in Milton Keynes, Santander UK’s new HQ, was praised for its community-first design, solar panels offsetting 40 tonnes of CO₂ annually, and inclusive internal streets hosting independent shops and shared spaces. Small but mighty projects Even projects under 2,500m² made a significant impact. Englefield Estate Yard in Reading transformed a derelict Grade II listed sawmill into a biophilic, low-carbon hub using local materials and renewable energy systems. Similarly, JLL’s new Birmingham office proved that a compact footprint can still deliver excellence in ESG, flexibility and wellbeing, with a standout biophilic interior and acoustic-sensitive layouts. Looking ahead Harry Allen, Director at Savills in Bristol and Judging Chair for the South of England and South Wales, summed up the mood: “This year’s entries reflect the very best of a changing office landscape, where wellbeing, sustainability and flexibility are fundamental to workplace design.” Rob van Zyl, Chairman of the BCO Midlands Committee, echoed the sentiment: “These exemplar projects show how design can go beyond aesthetics to make a real contribution to communities, employees and the environment.” All regional winners will go on to compete at the BCO National Awards in London on 7 October 2025, where the country’s most forward-thinking offices will be crowned. The BCO Awards are sponsored by AET Flexible Space, with support from AECOM, Glamox, Troup Bywaters + Anders, Overbury, Quantem and Willmott Dixon. The awards are held in association with Estates Gazette. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
To mark the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week (12 May – 18 May 2025), The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has today released its latest figures for its mental health training. Since 2018, CITB has supported over 52,000 construction workers to complete mental health training – vital support for an industry facing a mental health crisis. The courses provide training to educate and equip construction workers with the knowledge to recognise mental health issues developing and start practical mental health conversations. Since 2018, CITB has allocated over £1.5 million to mental health projects and more than £1.3 million in grants to support mental health first aid and awareness courses. The training schemes that are supported through CITB’s Grants Scheme help raise awareness of mental health issues in the industry, helping people in the industry understand the challenges their colleagues may be facing. The figures released today show the total number of individuals supported with mental health awareness and first aid training through the Grants Scheme in financial year 2024-25: Alongside the Grants Scheme, CITB has played a key role in advancing mental health support within the construction industry, including through initiatives such as Building Mental Health with the Lighthouse Club and the mental health for construction apprentices’ projects. These two commissions resulted in: Tim Balcon, CEO, CITB said: “There’s no getting away from the fact that the construction industry is facing a mental health crisis, and we all need to be collectively addressing this issue. It’s encouraging to see the large numbers of people completing mental health awareness and first aid training, and I urge others in the industry to complete mental health courses also. “We need to look after our workforce. When all workers can access support, without fear of stigma, lives will be saved and attracting new entrants will be easier. This is why CITB is actively supporting mental health schemes within the construction industry and will continue to do so by collaborating with key industry stakeholders to ensure everyone has access to mental health resources.” Find out more about CITB’s mental health awareness training here, and find out more about CITB’s mental health first aid training here. Plenty more resources on identifying and addressing mental health issues are available through Mates in Mind. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hammerson is set to take full control of Brent Cross, one of Greater London’s most prominent shopping centres, as part of its ongoing strategy to strengthen its retail portfolio. The real estate investment trust has announced its intention to acquire the remaining 59% stake in the centre, currently held by Abrdn’s UK Shopping Centre Trust (SCUT), in a deal valued at £200 million. Hammerson already holds a significant interest in Brent Cross and, including the SCUT units it has purchased or agreed to purchase, now controls more than 90% of the asset. The acquisition process is still underway, with Hammerson confirming that further updates will be provided in due course. Brent Cross boasts over 914,000 square feet of retail space across two floors, featuring more than 120 shops and 30 cafés and restaurants. Anchor tenants include M&S, Fenwick, and Zara, with a diverse line-up of brands such as Miele, Superdrug, Reserved, Phase Eight and Ray-Ban also present. This move follows Hammerson’s acquisition of the remaining 50% stake in Westquay, Southampton, last autumn, signalling a continued focus on consolidating ownership of key retail destinations within its portfolio. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) and Scottish media company, DC Thomson, have entered into a long-term facilities management agreement, enabling a step-change in the delivery of technical services across DC Thomson’s property portfolio. As part of the agreement, CBRE will deliver hard services across 17 sites, which include Dundee, Aberdeen, and London locations, encompassing mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fabric engineering. DC Thomson, a family-owned company headquartered in Dundee, has properties spanning the UK, including both office and manufacturing assets. As a leading provider of facilities and workplace solutions in Scotland with significant technical expertise, CBRE’s focus will be supporting DC Thomson in protecting the integrity of the estate, implementing planned and proactive maintenance regimes, and enhancing statutory compliance. CBRE will also work closely with DC Thomson and their advisor, Cadeama Consulting, to preserve the company’s presence in the local communities in which they operate, crafting a bespoke supply chain strategy that prioritises local organisations and delivers social value. Alex Noyce, Business Unit Director – Scotland at CBRE GWS says: “We are thrilled to be working with DC Thomson and supporting them as they look to enhance their portfolio. “This collaboration brings together CBRE’s hard-services heritage with DC Thomson’s commitment to property maintenance, community engagement, and sustainability. Our shared values and understanding of the unique demands of the media industry make this relationship a perfect fit. “We look forward to supporting DC Thomson in protecting their heritage and assets. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and ensuring the long-term preservation of their properties.” Ian Simpson, Head of Estates and Operations at DC Thomson says: “We are delighted to be working with CBRE GWS to deliver our facilities management services. Although they are a globally renowned organisation, we are impressed by their local expertise and commitment to developing an integrated and sustainable supply chain that promotes growth and jobs across the communities in which we operate. “We expect this appointment will deliver a step change in the way we provide services to the wider DC Thomson community. CBRE’s approach to date has given us confidence that working with them will achieve that.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Project will establish Europe’s first advanced uranium fuels production facility to power the next generation of nuclear reactors Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, has been chosen to design a ground-breaking advanced fuels production facility for Urenco, global suppliers of uranium enrichment services and fuel cycle products for power generation. The contract will see Costain’s multi-disciplinary in-house civil nuclear and engineering team carry out the front-end engineering design (FEED) for Europe’s first High Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) Advanced Fuels Facility. HALEU is uranium that has been enriched to have between 5% and 20% of the fissile isotope, U-235. It’s needed to fuel the next generation of reactor designs, including Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), to produce clean, cheap and secure nuclear energy for decades to come. The new facility, to be built at Urenco’s Capenhurst site in Cheshire, will produce the specialist fuel to support the development and deployment of the next generation of nuclear reactors at home and abroad and the associated global export opportunities. Costain is expected to complete the FEED in 2027. The FEED will inform Urenco’s plans for its new advanced fuel enrichment technologies and production facility. Earlier this year Urenco selected Costain as programme delivery partner to deliver new and upgraded infrastructure at Urenco Capenhurst over the next three years. Sam White, managing director, natural resources at Costain, commented: “This incredibly exciting project will establish the UK as the first country in Europe to launch a high-tech advanced nuclear fuels programme, confirming its status as a world leader in the civil nuclear energy market. “Ensuring the UK’s supply of advanced nuclear fuel will be critical for powering the next generation of reactors, including AMRs and SMRs. These are nuclear technologies that will play an important role as low-carbon sources of electricity to support a secure, resilient and decarbonised energy system in the UK. “Our expert engineers will work collaboratively with Urenco and the wider supply chain to design a state-of-the-art fuel facility. Constructability will be at the heart of the designs to make this concept a reality.” Costain has extensive experience in delivering FEED studies to solve complex problems, and integrating engineering and constructability across a range of sectors for nuclear and non-nuclear design and build projects. It is currently delivering critical projects across the UK’s nuclear energy ecosystem, providing a range of services and solutions including project delivery, design, build, decommissioning and maintenance of nuclear energy sites. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans to create a dynamic new commercial hub in Warwickshire – as part of a wider regeneration scheme – will be showcased at a major property forum. Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), Warwickshire County Council’s arms-length property development company, will show off its vision for Fusiliers Way, located between Leamington Spa and Warwick, at UKREiiF in Leeds later this month. The Fusiliers Way proposal will be central to WPDG’s promotional activity at UKREiiF, where it will join forces with Warwickshire County Council as one of the authority’s official partners. The scheme would see the development of 16 units across 43,000 sq ft of commercial space to support SMEs and local businesses.Fifteen of the business units would range from 1,000 sq ft to 3,500 sq ft. The application, which has been submitted to Warwick District Council, also features the footprint for a larger 15,000 sq ft building. Fusiliers Way aims to deliver high quality, sustainable and energy efficient units, built to BREEAM Very Good and EPC A standards. Stuart Buckley, Managing Director at WPDG, said: “We’re looking forward to joining our partners at UKREiiF to highlight our recent successes and to showcase what we have coming up. “After the success of our Sucham Park scheme in Southam we are pressing forward with a pipeline of sites that can provide high-quality space to support SMEs to grow and thrive in Warwickshire. “We are expecting to start work this summer on our scheme at Fusiliers Way, which is part of a wider masterplan to create a mixed-use community in the area. “Alongside our successful joint ventures, we are ramping up WPDG-led activity at two residential sites in the region– with two further direct delivery sites set to come through over the coming months. “This means we are in a great position to meet with potential residential development partners and occupiers for our upcoming commercial schemes – and we hope to do this at UKREiiF.” If approved, phase one of Fusiliers Way will provide purpose-built space for expanding businesses and start-ups in the area and help to create in the region of 85 jobs. The second phase would seek to deliver a local centre to support the area’s growing neighbourhood and business community, including a convenience store, children’s day nursery and coffee shop. WPDG is one of eight organisations across the public and private sectors that Invest Warwickshire, Warwickshire County Council’s inward investment team, will partner at UKREiiF, taking place from May 20 to 22. The partnerships will see each organisation involved in panel discussions Invest Warwickshire is hosting at UKREiiF, the UK’s largest real estate event and conference. Mark Ryder, Executive Director for Communities at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Warwickshire is one of the most dynamic economic locations in the Midlands and the UK. The county is a popular destination for both UK and foreign direct investment, and the area is home to some of the most important commercial property developments such as Coventry & Warwick Giga Park, one of the eight UK Investment Zones, MIRA Technology Park South Site and major town centre opportunities like Transforming Nuneaton, Creative Quarter Leamington Spa and Rugby Town Centre. “UKREiiF is a great opportunity for us to promote our partner organisation, Warwickshire Property Development Group and the new homes and SME commercial space being developed by them in the county, and Warwickshire County Council’s Property Infrastructure Fund, which can lend up to £10m to bring forward commercial development projects in support of growth and jobs. “We also look forward to working with a range of partners, including Tritax Big Box, IM Properties and Stoford to promote new development opportunities in the county and local area at the event this year.” WPDG was formed in 2021 and is delivering projects to realise the value and economic impact of Warwickshire County Council assets for the benefit of residents in Warwickshire. Its first commercial development, a 42,200 sq ft industrial scheme in Southam, completed last year and is now 100 per cent let. The Group is also delivering around 2,000 homes through its Develop Warwickshire joint venture with Vistry Group and WCC, and its own direct delivery. WPDG will be in the West Midlands Pavilion at UKREiiF. To arrange a meeting with WPDG, before, during or after UKREiiF, call the main office on 0192 695 6492, email info@wpdg.co.uk or contact Warwickshire Property Development Group’s LinkedIn page. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
