May 27, 2025
Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed to lead a major £130 million overhaul of the iconic Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in south London, marking a significant step forward in securing the future of one of the capital’s most historic sporting venues. The appointment, made by the Greater London Authority

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Design Team Appointed for £1bn Airedale Hospital Rebuild

Design Team Appointed for £1bn Airedale Hospital Rebuild

The redevelopment of Airedale General Hospital has taken a major step forward with the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team to lead the ambitious £1 billion project near Keighley. Prompted by urgent concerns over the presence of structurally compromised reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) across the estate, Airedale’s rebuild has

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Henry Boot Construction completes work on £14 million project at Minsthorpe Community College

Henry Boot Construction completes work on £14 million project at Minsthorpe Community College

Henry Boot Construction, part of Henry Boot, has officially completed work on a new net-zero-carbon-in-operation sports facility and the refurbishment of teaching spaces at Minsthorpe Community College in South Elmsall. Providing high-quality facilities designed for both students and the wider community, the net-zero-carbon-in-operation facility includes two activity studios, changing rooms,

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ABM Clinches €10 Million Deal for Galway Healthcare Facilities

ABM Clinches €10 Million Deal for Galway Healthcare Facilities

ABM, the global provider of facility, engineering and infrastructure solutions, has secured a new €10 million contract with Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) to deliver cleaning services across eight key healthcare and administrative sites in Galway. The extensive agreement covers University Hospital Galway, Merlin Park University Hospital (MPUH), the Adult

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Enhancing Building Security with Fireproof Safe Solutions for Modern Construction Projects

Enhancing Building Security with Fireproof Safe Solutions for Modern Construction Projects

With the ever-increasing need for secure fire-resistant storage, especially in residential and commercial developments, the application of fireproof safe technology is emerging as a complex consideration for construction experts. This article focuses on these systems, their selection considerations, and their integration with contemporary security frameworks. Over 147,000 fire incidents in

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Spencer Group extends support for worker wellbeing by backing construction industry charity Lighthouse

Spencer Group extends support for worker wellbeing by backing construction industry charity Lighthouse

Multi-disciplinary engineering specialist Spencer Group has become an official Company Supporter of Lighthouse, the construction industry charity. Hull-based Spencer Group has selected the organisation as its official charity partner for 2025 and colleagues have already raised over £2,000 through an Easter raffle, weekly dress-down Fridays, fantasy football league and more.

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Latest Issue
Issue 329 : Jun 2025

May 27, 2025

Starbucks Drive-Thru, KFC and Greggs Now Open and Trading at Viking Park, Congleton

Starbucks Drive-Thru, KFC and Greggs Now Open and Trading at Viking Park, Congleton

Clowes Developments have handed over three roadside convenience units to their occupiers, Café Fortune Ltd trading as Starbucks (Drive-Thru), Gastronomy Restaurants Ltd trading as KFC and Greggs. The stores opened at the start of May and have seen a positive launch with record opening sales reported. Construction of a detached 1,850 sq ft Starbucks drive through facility at the front of the plot and a semi-detached unit totalling 3,200 sq ft KFC and Greggs store were officially built out earlier in the year following a brief fit out period, the stores are now fully open and operational.  At the centre of the plot there is a parking facility for up to 38 vehicles, including 4 E-V charging stations for convenience of passing trade. Ian Gill, Property Director at Gastronomy Restaurants Ltd & Café Fortune Ltd, commented: “Gastronomy Restaurants Ltd and Café Fortune Ltd as appointed UK franchisee and licensees for KFC and Starbucks are delighted to have worked with Clowes Developments in bringing forward this scheme and allowing us to bring these brands to the population of Congleton. The process was amicable and smooth with the completed scheme looking exceptional.” Gillian Long, Retail Operations Director for Greggs, said: “Our new shop in Congleton has brought 12 new jobs to the local area, as well as providing customers with a modern, convenient new place to experience their Greggs favourites.” The retail units are conveniently located directly off Barn Road which runs through the centre of Viking Park, connecting Congleton town to the A536 link road. Starbucks, Greggs and KFC sit next to a hugely popular Aldi store which officially opened to the general public in September 2024. Marc Freeman, Director, Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd added: “We’re delighted to see the roadside retail element at Viking Park now fully open and trading. The arrival of Starbucks, KFC and Greggs significantly strengthens the offering for both the local community and passing traffic. Building on Aldi’s successful opening last autumn, Viking Park is rapidly establishing itself as a key destination in Congleton. Our thanks go to Roe Developments for delivering the units on time and to an excellent standard.” Elsewhere on the mixed-use scheme, residential developer Bloor Homes are progressing well with the construction of their homes. On completion, Viking Park will deliver up to 175 homes, as well as 36,800 sq ft office facilities and 219,500 sq ft of industrial units. Two industrial units have also achieved practical completion according to schedule and are now being fitted out by their occupiers, which are due to be announced in the next couple of weeks. Additionally, Clowes Developments in partnership with their principal construction contractor, Roe Developments, have commenced earthworks on the next phase of Viking Park. This phase will deliver two high-quality industrial/trade counter/warehouse units, each measuring 12,220 sq ft, with the flexibility to be subdivided into three terrace units of approximately 4,000 sq ft each. The units enjoy a prominent roadside position with direct access from the main road, offering excellent visibility and accessibility. Available on an all-enquiries basis, these units are scheduled for completion and ready for occupation by Q4 2025. Viking103, a 100,000 sq ft design and build opportunity is also being marketed on an all-enquiries basis, interested parties are invited to contact agents Mark Sillitoe, ms@willsill.co.uk or Andrew Groves, andrew.groves@harrislamb.com for more information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Crystal Palace Sports Centre Set for £130m Transformation

Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed to lead a major £130 million overhaul of the iconic Crystal Palace National Sports Centre in south London, marking a significant step forward in securing the future of one of the capital’s most historic sporting venues. The appointment, made by the Greater London Authority through the Southern Construction Framework, signals the beginning of a pre-construction phase involving detailed planning applications and listed building consent. Full-scale works are expected to begin in the latter half of next year. The ambitious scheme will see the comprehensive refurbishment of the centre’s ageing facilities, including a complete rebuild of the 50-metre swimming and diving pools. Upgrades are also planned for the indoor sports halls, external pitches and the athletics stadium, revitalising the venue while carefully preserving its Grade II* listed architecture. First opened in 1964, the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre has long been a launchpad for British sporting talent. However, decades of wear have left the site in urgent need of modernisation. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan commented: “Crystal Palace National Sports Centre is an historic and much-loved sporting and community facility where many UK sporting stars have started their careers and trained, but which needs major investment and refurbishment. I am committed to this once-in-a-generation redevelopment of the site which will secure its future for decades to come.” The complex nature of the refurbishment is compounded by the need to work sensitively within the constraints of a protected structure, ensuring that heritage features are preserved while modernising the facility to meet current sporting and community needs. Richard Dobson, area director for London at Morgan Sindall Construction, said: “We’re delighted to have been appointed to this project, as the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre is an iconic facility that’s not only close to the hearts of people in the area but is also an important historic national sporting landmark. “We look forward to continuing our close and collaborative relationship with the Greater London Authority on this regeneration, which has been procured through the SCF framework. The project promises to breathe new life into the extensive sporting facilities, while delivering a wide range of health, wellbeing, and social value benefits for local communities.” The redevelopment is seen as a critical investment in London’s sporting infrastructure and a timely commitment to community health and wellbeing, as well as preserving a legacy site for future generations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Design Team Appointed for £1bn Airedale Hospital Rebuild

Design Team Appointed for £1bn Airedale Hospital Rebuild

The redevelopment of Airedale General Hospital has taken a major step forward with the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team to lead the ambitious £1 billion project near Keighley. Prompted by urgent concerns over the presence of structurally compromised reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) across the estate, Airedale’s rebuild has been fast-tracked and is now part of Wave 1 in the government’s National Hospital Programme. Construction is expected to commence by 2028, with projected costs ranging between £1 billion and £1.5 billion. P+HS Architects has been named as lead consultant, working in partnership with AHR Architects and in collaboration with HDR, the originator of the ‘Hospital 2.0’ design model. The design team is tasked with implementing a modern, standardised healthcare environment that can be tailored to local needs. Supporting the architects are Curtins as structural and civil engineer, Aecom as building services engineer, Gleeds as project manager, and Archus providing specialist healthcare consultancy. Alastair Stewart, programme director for the ‘Securing the Future’ initiative at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to have made this key appointment for our programme, which will allow us to start work on designing a new hospital for Airedale. The team will be supporting us to use the latest design and technology approaches and to deliver the Hospital 2.0 model in a way that best meets the needs of the population we serve. Working with our patients, staff and local communities will also be vital to ensure we make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop high quality, sustainable healthcare facilities for Airedale.” Phil Bentley, director at P+HS Architects, added: “Our extensive experience in healthcare design and knowledge of the Airedale Hospital estate, combined with the expertise of our design team partners, means we are well-placed to support Airedale Hospital in creating a forward-thinking, sustainable facility that meets the highest standards for patients and staff.” Aecom will focus on engineering efficiency and environmental performance, ensuring high levels of thermal comfort and access to natural daylight. Curtins will lead on structural design and transport infrastructure, working closely with Aecom’s M&E and digital teams to embed the Hospital 2.0 principles of energy and carbon efficiency. The new Airedale facility will not only replace a deteriorating and outdated estate but also serve as a blueprint for next-generation NHS hospitals designed to be adaptable, resilient and patient-centred. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Henry Boot Construction completes work on £14 million project at Minsthorpe Community College

Henry Boot Construction completes work on £14 million project at Minsthorpe Community College

Henry Boot Construction, part of Henry Boot, has officially completed work on a new net-zero-carbon-in-operation sports facility and the refurbishment of teaching spaces at Minsthorpe Community College in South Elmsall. Providing high-quality facilities designed for both students and the wider community, the net-zero-carbon-in-operation facility includes two activity studios, changing rooms, toilets, storage facilities, office space, and a 6,394 sq ft main sports hall which opened in January this year. The final phase – including the installation of a new multi-use games area (MUGA) – has now been completed, marking the full handover of the project which has been funded by the Department for Education. Construction began in summer 2023 to replace the previous outdated sports facilities, alongside refurbishment works to several of the existing blocks. The sports facility has achieved an impressive EPC A+ rating and forms part of Minsthorpe Community College’s long-term strategy to enhance sports provision and establish a central hub for community engagement and physical wellbeing. In addition to meeting net-zero-in-operation standards, the facility also incorporates a green roof and integrated sustainable drainage solutions to enhance both biodiversity and environmental performance. Ryan O’Loughlin, Regional Director at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have delivered a facility that will have a lasting impact on both the students of Minsthorpe Community College and the wider South Elmsall, South Kirby, and Upton community. “From day one, this project was about more than just bricks and mortar, it was about creating a sustainable space that supports physical and mental wellbeing, learning and community engagement. “Throughout the project, we also placed a strong focus on delivering social value – adopting a student-led approach to shaping the future of their sports facilities. We believe that quality social value is achieved through genuine collaboration, and we’re confident this development leaves a positive legacy that the whole community can be proud of.” Joint Principals Mark Gilmore and Rachael Merritt, from Minsthorpe Community College, added: “We were delighted to be chosen as one of the first 50 schools to be part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme. “The new sports centre and surrounding works, including a new multi-use games area, is the final piece in the jigsaw in bringing the College’s facilities into the 21st century – meaning the experiences of both our amazing students and fantastic community will be enriched for years to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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ABM Clinches €10 Million Deal for Galway Healthcare Facilities

ABM Clinches €10 Million Deal for Galway Healthcare Facilities

ABM, the global provider of facility, engineering and infrastructure solutions, has secured a new €10 million contract with Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) to deliver cleaning services across eight key healthcare and administrative sites in Galway. The extensive agreement covers University Hospital Galway, Merlin Park University Hospital (MPUH), the Adult Acute Mental Health Unit (AAMHU), and five HSE administrative buildings in Galway City. It also includes recently opened facilities such as MPUH’s outpatients’ department and the cystic fibrosis unit. ABM’s responsibilities extend to critical care environments including operating theatres and intensive care units, ensuring high standards of hygiene and infection control across all sites. In support of the Department of Health’s Waiting List Initiative, the company will also provide cleaning operatives for out-of-hours clinics, helping to reduce treatment delays. As part of the contract, ABM is investing around €1 million into equipment, staff uniforms, administration systems, and comprehensive training programmes. New smart scanning technology is being introduced to track and manage equipment usage, enhancing infection control and streamlining operations. The company is also implementing its structured Step Up Programme to support career development for cleaning operatives. Under the new agreement, up to 350 staff are transitioning from the previous provider to ABM. The mobilisation of the contract was completed seamlessly, with no downtime or disruption to healthcare services. An experienced ABM team was deployed on-site in Galway one month prior to the handover to ensure a smooth transition. Geoff Ginnetty, Services Manager at Galway University Hospitals, said: “We have found ABM to have an extremely professional approach to providing cleaning services at the two public acute hospitals in Galway city. ABM has so far demonstrated a responsiveness to the requirements of our hospitals, in a busy and challenging healthcare environment. We look forward to building on this promising start, to develop a strong working relationship between Galway University Hospitals and ABM.” David Ferguson, Operations Director for All Ireland at ABM, commented: “Building on the success we have in the Irish healthcare sector by providing more facilities management services is part of our growth strategy and was a key differentiator in our successful bid. We are looking forward to working together with our new team of over 350 people to deliver exceptional services and ensure the highest standards of cleanliness and safety throughout this critical setting.” This contract marks a significant milestone for ABM as it expands its footprint in the Irish healthcare sector and strengthens its position as a trusted provider of essential services in high-pressure environments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Wales Takes the Lead in Renewables as Tidal Energy Project Hits Major Milestone

Wales Takes the Lead in Renewables as Tidal Energy Project Hits Major Milestone

In a significant boost for the UK’s clean energy ambitions, Inyanga Marine Energy Group has awarded a key fabrication contract to Hutchinson Engineering for its pioneering HydroWing tidal energy device. Set to be deployed at Morlais, off the coast of Anglesey (Ynys Môn), the 20 MW HydroWing array forms part of one of Europe’s largest consented tidal energy projects. The first-of-its-kind device is scheduled for installation in early 2026 and is expected to mark a turning point for marine renewables in the UK. The fabrication contract covers the construction of the foundation frame and rear nacelle, essential components designed to endure the extreme conditions of the seabed environment. The 120-tonne frame will deliver 1.2 MW of energy per unit and is designed with a 25-year lifespan, taking future decommissioning into account. Manufacturing will be split between Hutchinson Engineering’s base in Cheshire and final assembly at a Welsh quayside location, supporting regional job creation and local supply chains. Richard Parkinson, chief executive of Inyanga Marine Energy Group, said: “Hutchinson Engineering have all the engineering expertise and ingenuity required to turn our innovative tidal stream technology concept into reality. The tidal energy scheme at Morlais is the largest of its kind in the world and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to prove the full potential of tidal energy, really putting Wales on the map as a global pioneer in renewable energy.” Steve Adams, managing director of Hutchinson Engineering, added: “We are extremely excited about winning the contract for this groundbreaking project. We pride ourselves on all our fabrications having a positive impact on the world and so this will be a flagship project for us. It is an opportunity to fabricate advanced technology that is expected to become a world leader in tidal energy.” The development also signals broader momentum for the Morlais initiative. Andy Billcliff, chief executive of Menter Môn Morlais, commented: “The award of the first fabrication contract is a significant milestone in our exciting journey to deliver tidal energy at Morlais, providing economic and sustainability benefits for Wales and the UK, as well as demonstrating the global commercial viability of tidal energy.” Earlier this month, the Welsh Government confirmed a £2 million equity investment in Inyanga Marine Energy Group, contributing to a wider funding round supporting the company’s international expansion, including projects in France, southeast Asia and Canada. Onshore infrastructure for the Morlais site, including a landfall substation and underground cabling, was completed by North Wales-based Jones Bros Civil Engineering in December 2023. As the world searches for sustainable energy solutions, this Welsh-led project positions the UK at the forefront of tidal power innovation, offering the promise of long-term environmental and economic returns. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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OCS Foundation relaunches with renewed mission to empower children and young people across the UK and Ireland

OCS Foundation relaunches with renewed mission to empower children and young people across the UK and Ireland

The OCS Foundation, an independent grant-giving and fundraising charity, is proud to announce its relaunch with a sharpened focus on creating opportunities for children and young people facing disadvantage across the UK and Ireland. Established in 2014, the OCS Foundation has a strong legacy of tackling the causes and effects of poverty by developing the capacity and skills of socially and economically disadvantaged community members. In 2023, the Foundation piloted its pioneering ‘People into Work’ scheme, which has since helped over 680 individuals secure valuable, sustainable employment. These life-changing outcomes are now a core part of OCS’s social value commitments. A new chapter With its relaunch, the OCS Foundation is reaffirming its purpose to positively impact as many children and young people as possible, providing them with opportunities to thrive. The Foundation’s mission is clear—children and young people should have no limits to their potential, their dreams, and no limits in their lives. Recognising the barriers many children and young people face, whether through illness, poverty, exclusion, or unstable family environments, the OCS Foundation supports causes, projects, and charities that offer safety, skills, wellbeing support, and real pathways to a brighter future. By leveraging the strength and reach of OCS, the Foundation empowers individuals through mental health support, education, skills development, and community activities, ensuring a lasting impact. Key initiatives and values The OCS Foundation’s initiatives focus on three core areas: Guided by its TRUE values (Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment) the Foundation is committed to investing in both immediate support and long-term solutions for young people. Collective Commitment and Leadership The OCS Foundation is led by a dedicated board of trustees, chaired by Lorraine O’Brien, who brings over 25 years of commercial and charitable leadership experience. Nikki Brown, the new Head of Foundation, is passionate about harnessing collective effort to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people. As part of the relaunch, the Foundation is proud to announce partnerships with Brighten the Corners, Irish Youth Foundation, Teenage Cancer Trust and Scotty’s Little Soldiers. These partnerships will further strengthen the Foundation’s ability to deliver meaningful, lasting impact. Commenting on the relaunch, Nikki Brown, Head of the Foundation said, “We are delighted to be announcing a long-term vision for the Foundation which supports our future generations. We are focused on lifting children and young people up and giving them the helping hand they need to create a better future for themselves. The partners that we have chosen will really help us to make a difference.” Lorraine O’Brien, Chair of the Board of Trustees, added, “The Foundation has a reinvigorated and renewed sense of purpose to use the power of OCS and our incredible colleagues to improve the lives of future generations. Our mission will be focusing on removing the barriers that many young people face by creating a wealth of opportunities to create a brighter future without limits for young people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Enhancing Building Security with Fireproof Safe Solutions for Modern Construction Projects

Enhancing Building Security with Fireproof Safe Solutions for Modern Construction Projects

With the ever-increasing need for secure fire-resistant storage, especially in residential and commercial developments, the application of fireproof safe technology is emerging as a complex consideration for construction experts. This article focuses on these systems, their selection considerations, and their integration with contemporary security frameworks. Over 147,000 fire incidents in England were reported in 2023, according to the UK Home Office’s Fire and Rescue Incident Statistics. An overwhelming share of these amounted to residential fires. As is typical, fire detection and suppression systems are integrated into the building’s specifications, however, safekeeping sensitive and irreplaceable items remains inadequately addressed at the design stage. This article investigates the integration of fireproof safes into construction and refurbishment projects. It navigates the practical challenges that selection of products poses and considers the alignment of storage subtility by contractors, developers, and facilities managers in the context of advanced fire protection policies. The Importance Fireproof Safes Have in Construction Fireproof safes are not regarded as additional features for users, but rather built into as security systems in new constructions and during renovations. These safes are used for securing documentation pertaining to the construction of a building, tenant possessions, and even sensitive digital media, all while offering protection against fire, unauthorised access, and breach. Due to recognized standards like EN 15659 and UL 72, modern fireproof safes are tested to endure high temperatures for specific durations, typically 30, 60 and, in some cases, 120 minutes. In more advanced structures like mixed-use or commercial offices, the ability to protect sensitive contents such as legal contracts, legal digital backups, and even legal records from fire damage is becoming a tier one requirement and is often included for specification writing. Balanced and dynamic risk management is becoming prevalent as construction teams work alongside facilities to determine if static, concealed, or floor-mounted storage will best fit a building’s operational and security needs early on.  Understanding the Role of Fireproof Safes in Construction Choosing a fireproof safe involves balancing fire protection, security rating, and intended use. Fireproof safes are often rated not only by how much heat they can withstand, but also how much physical attack they can endure, usually according to standards like the European EN 14450 or the EN 1143-1 for higher security applications. A safe’s internal layout can differ greatly depending on whether the contents are paper documents, digital media, or cash and jewellery. For example, data safes require additional internal insulation and moisture control because electronic devices and hard drives are more sensitive to heat and humidity than paper. In the construction of fireproof safes, the method of installation also affects the weight. Most large units need reinforced flooring or fixed anchorage points to secure them in place. For construction projects with limited space, wall-mounted or underfloor units save square footage without compromising internal layout design. Typically, fire resistance ratings are broken down by how long they last, for example, 60 or 120 minutes of protection, as well as by the type of content. Understanding the specific rating and certification is essential during product selection because a safe rated for 60 minutes protecting paper may not digitally safeguard data for the same duration. Key Considerations for Selecting Fireproof Storage As risks of fire and theft continue across the built environment, residential and commercial schemes are integrating secure storage into the early stages of the planning process. For residential projects, especially more luxurious or multi-unit apartments, demand for built-in security is leading to the installation of fireproof safes during fit-outs. In commercial contexts, secure storage is routinely incorporated in server rooms, finance offices, or document storage. Increasingly, office buildings are installing safes not only for security, but also as part of comprehensive disaster recovery plans to shield vital materials from external threats, fire, and tampering. In these public sector buildings, including schools and healthcare facilities, the provision of fireproof storage enables compliance with data protection and record-keeping legislation. Safes in such settings are frequently used for personal records, medication logs, or digital equipment, forming part of an overarching risk mitigation strategy. More and more construction professionals are considering these requirements during the mechanical as well as electrical planning stages, so that installation of systems by subcontractors dealing with HVAC, electrical, and access systems is performed in a safe manner and does not interfere with other systems. Looking Ahead As we know from the construction of screw thread fireproof safes, fire as an operational threat is becoming a concern. These structures incorporate sophisticated safety and security features, while fireproof safes are increasingly common, no longer an afterthought. Given the rigorous testing these safes undergo and their design for various applications, they will osutn—be useful for numerous enduring regions in the constructed environment. For some industries, such as legal practices, healthcare, education, and high-end residential properties, where document retention, data protection, and asset preservation are of primary importance, this is particularly remarkable. The use of fireproof safes signifies a shift toward fortification building architecture. With policies now focusing more on risk exposure and continuity planning, secure storage systems will soon become standard in design briefs. Moreover, advanced material technologies and small form factors enable these units to be spatially and visually unobtrusive. Their integration is increasingly becoming a rational approach in contemporary building design.

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Spencer Group extends support for worker wellbeing by backing construction industry charity Lighthouse

Spencer Group extends support for worker wellbeing by backing construction industry charity Lighthouse

Multi-disciplinary engineering specialist Spencer Group has become an official Company Supporter of Lighthouse, the construction industry charity. Hull-based Spencer Group has selected the organisation as its official charity partner for 2025 and colleagues have already raised over £2,000 through an Easter raffle, weekly dress-down Fridays, fantasy football league and more. Lighthouse provides 24/7 holistic support to the UK and Ireland construction community on all aspects of emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.  A crucial element of the charity’s strategy is to provide a range of free and widely available reactive and proactive resources to support the industry, which Spencer Group’s fundraising will help to deliver. Spencer Group Completions Manager Claire Ransom is one of the company’s Charity Champions who are leading the fundraising efforts. She said: “Every working day in the UK and Ireland, two construction workers take their own life, and we know that stress, anxiety and depression accounts for one fifth of all reported work-related illnesses. “As a business we’re committed to supporting the wellbeing of our colleagues and contributing to making a positive change in our industry. Lighthouse aligns with everything we are so passionate about, so choosing them as our charity partner for 2025 was a natural choice. “The charity works to bring mental health into normal workplace conversations and provides free, confidential support and resources to anyone who is struggling. We’re proud to be supporting them in 2025.” To bolster support for the charity while also giving back to its own workforce, Spencer Group matched the first £1,000 raised by colleagues and donated an additional £1,000 to become an official Company Supporter. Services the charity offers include a free and confidential 24/7 helpline, live web chat service and text facility, providing a range of information, guidance and support on a huge variety of wellbeing issues. These services are complemented by Lighthouse’s free self-support app, as well as Lighthouse Beacons – safe spaces for people to share concerns. By becoming a Company Supporter, Spencer Group colleagues now have access to free online Mental Health First Aid training in addition to a number of other benefits designed to support and promote wellbeing, including the charity’s Wellbeing Academy which offers a variety of soft skills and leadership training, an exclusive supporter hub, helpline cards and posters, and regular awareness campaign updates and social media assets.    To kick off the partnership, Spencer Group welcomed representatives from Lighthouse for an informative presentation which was delivered in person to colleagues at Spencer Group’s head office in Hull, as well as streamed to all project sites across the UK. The presentation aimed to raise awareness of the wide portfolio of services the charity provides and highlight how colleagues can access support. Claire said: “At Spencer Group we’re already committed to promoting an open and inclusive work environment, where colleagues are encouraged to prioritise their wellbeing. “We have a growing team of Mental Health First Aiders and run regular Took Box Talks, as well as weekly Wellness Walks to ensure people know how they can access support and have a safe space they can go if they are struggling. “Our partnership with Lighthouse marks another meaningful step forward in our ongoing commitment to wellbeing, support and positive change in our industry.” Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity added: “I’d like to say a huge thank you to Spencer Group for choosing us as their charity of the year. “As well as their fantastic fundraising efforts and joining us as a Company Supporter, their proactive stance in promoting our charitable services continues to open conversations around positive wellbeing and helps to create a supportive working environment for everyone in our industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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How to Choose the Best Property Management Group for Your Commercial Property

How to Choose the Best Property Management Group for Your Commercial Property

The best property management group for commercial spaces helps you protect your investment while making your life easier. When you bring in a professional team, you get a partner who can reduce vacancies and streamline daily operations. From managing budgets to boosting tenant retention, the right company takes care of the details so you can focus on growing your business. Working with a top-tier management group is wise if you want peace of mind and long-term value from your project. Why Property Management Matters for Commercial Assets The best property management group for commercial spaces understands your project’s unique challenges. It takes a proactive approach to solving them. Commercial spaces have complex regulatory requirements and tenant expectations that can quickly become overwhelming. Without proper management, you risk tenant turnover, rising operational costs and potential legal trouble. A reliable management company handles lease enforcement, budgeting and tenant communications, which gives you consistent results and peace of mind. What Is the Best Property Management Group for Commercial Spaces? Choosing the right property management group for commercial spaces can make or break your investment. Whether you own one office building or manage a portfolio of retail centers, the right team keeps operations smooth and tenants satisfied. 1.   Property Management, Inc. If you are looking for a dependable commercial property management group in Pennsylvania, Property Management, Inc. (PMI) offers services tailored to your needs. With over 50 years of experience, it manages more than 6 million square feet of commercial space, including office buildings and retail centers. Its services encompass lease administration, facility maintenance, financial planning and tenant relations. PMI’s dedicated team provides on-site staff management and strategic consulting to help you maximize your investment. Recognized as the No. 1 Best Commercial Property Management Firm by the Central Penn Business Journal, PMI stands out among its competitors for its commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. 2.   Cushman & Wakefield If you manage a high-value commercial asset, Cushman & Wakefield brings global reach and deep local expertise to help you elevate your property’s performance. Its management services go beyond basic operations. It focuses on delivering workplace experiences that attract and retain top tenants. You will benefit from smart building technology, real-time data insights and a team that tailors solutions to your business goals. With a presence in over 60 countries and a team of more than 50,000 professionals, it brings global expertise and local market knowledge to every client. Cushman & Wakefield’s dedicated teams create engaging workplace experiences by maximizing your investment’s value while providing superior tenant service. 3.   CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE combines global expertise with innovative solutions. Managing over 3.1 billion square feet across 19,000 properties worldwide, CBRE can help enhance your establishment’s performance and value. It offers lease administration, facility maintenance and financial planning to ensure your property is efficient. CBRE’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its integration of environmental, social and governance principles and smart building technologies. Its expertise helps you meet environmental goals while reducing operational costs. With a dedicated team of over 16,000 professionals, CBRE provides personalized service tailored to your specific needs, which makes them a top choice among commercial property management groups. 4.   JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle) JLL is a strong contender if you want a property management group for commercial spaces that brings innovation and reliability. It offers a full range of services that cover building operations and lease administration, energy management and workplace experience design. What sets Jll apart is its focus on using real-time data and advanced technology to drive smart decision-making and reduce costs. You will also benefit from its deep commitment to sustainability, with tailored programs that help your property meet environmental goals without sacrificing performance. Whether managing an office tower, industrial park or mixed-use development, JLL delivers consistent results with a focus on tenant satisfaction and long-term asset value. 5.   Lincoln Property Company Suppose you want to partner with a company that combines national scale with personalized service. Seek the services of Lincoln Property Company (LPC), which offers solutions to enhance your project’s performance and tenant satisfaction. It covers lease administration, facility maintenance and tenant relations, which ensures your property is profitable. Its proactive approach focuses on creating premier environments and engaging tenant experiences, leveraging the latest technologies and innovations to optimize real estate investments. Whether managing an office tower or industrial park, LPC’s dedicated team provides tailored solutions to meet your needs. How to Choose the Right Property Management Partner The best property management group for commercial spaces responds quickly, uses smart technology and understands the unique needs of your project. Take the time to compare offerings because the right partner can protect your investment and support long-term stability.

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