Plans to deliver 127 new homes at Castleton Grange in Eye have been given the green light, as Mid Suffolk District Council’s planning committee approved Phase 2 of the development this week. The homes will be delivered by Persimmon Homes Suffolk and are designed to be zero carbon-ready, aligning with
A major £140 million transformation of Darlington Station has marked a significant milestone with the completion of a bridge concourse linking the historic Bank Top station to its new eastern entrance off Neasham Road. The final section of the pedestrian bridge was installed late last week, forming a vital connection
Gensler’s design aims to cultivate a vibrant and collaborative community that provides a platform for scientific discovery and reinforce Wellcome Genome Campus’ mission as a global leader in genomics, biodata, health data and data science. Gensler has been appointed by the Wellcome Genome Campus to design the first life sciences
Work is set to begin on the next phase of the Hollinwood Junction industrial park in Oldham, as developer Langtree secures a major contractor and finalises funding for the £25 million project. Manchester-based contractor Russell WBHO has been appointed to deliver the scheme, following the completion of a forward funding
Reds10, a leader in industrialised construction, has unveiled a new senior leadership structure to drive the next phase of its ambitious growth strategy, targeting £500m in turnover and accelerating the integration of advanced technologies across the business. At the heart of this evolution is the promotion of three senior leaders,
Balfour Beatty VINCI has successfully slid the first part of a major 320-metre-long viaduct into position that will carry high speed trains across the M6 near Birmingham Airport. The first stage of the project – delivered this weekend – saw the ‘East Deck’ of the M6 South viaduct slid 119m
Award winning construction firm McPhillips (Wellington) Ltd has delivered a new £2.6m chilled storage warehouse and office development for food distribution specialists Dale Brothers. McPhillips was principal contractor on the complex project in Telford which was handed over to the temperature-controlled food distribution specialists within the 37-week time frame and
Hamilton (Building Contractors), one of the largest and longest-standing specialist facade contractors in the UK has appointed Martin Walker BSc (Hons), MCIOB as Regional Director for the South as the company continues a period of exceptional growth. Martin brings over 20 years of experience and a proven track record in
The Prime Minister has announced a new AI-powered tool, “Extract,” aimed at streamlining administrative processes within the planning system and supporting the delivery of 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “While AI tools can help alleviate the
Award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group, has made two senior sales appointments as part of its ongoing expansion, reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality homes across key regions. Eloise Solari joins as Head of Sales for London and Sarah Boyce takes on the role of Head of Sales for the South
Plans to deliver 127 new homes at Castleton Grange in Eye have been given the green light, as Mid Suffolk District Council’s planning committee approved Phase 2 of the development this week. The homes will be delivered by Persimmon Homes Suffolk and are designed to be zero carbon-ready, aligning with the developer’s commitment to sustainability and future-proofed living. The new phase will include 25 affordable homes for residents whose housing needs are not met by the open market. Ranging from two to five bedrooms, more than half of the properties will be built as adaptable homes, allowing them to accommodate the evolving needs of families over time. Each home will feature an air source heat pump and be equipped with an electric vehicle charging point as standard. Persimmon will also contribute £2.5 million toward local public services and infrastructure as part of its developer obligations, supporting the wider community as the development expands. Ian Hamilton, Managing Director of Persimmon Homes Suffolk, said: “We have included large areas of open space within the layout design for this phase to create a low-density scheme that provides opportunities for residents to enjoy the green space. “We are delighted that members were able to approve the scheme and allow us to continue building at Castleton Grange in order to meet local demand for new homes.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major £140 million transformation of Darlington Station has marked a significant milestone with the completion of a bridge concourse linking the historic Bank Top station to its new eastern entrance off Neasham Road. The final section of the pedestrian bridge was installed late last week, forming a vital connection between the existing grade II-listed station and the newly developed eastern gateway. The 50-tonne enclosed, step-free bridge was previously lifted into place using a 750-tonne crane specially built for the task. Network Rail is now leading the next phase of the ambitious project, which includes two new platforms, platforms 5 and 6, to boost capacity on both the East Coast Main Line and the Tees Valley Line. These upgrades aim to ease freight movements and improve services across the region. The entire scheme remains on track for completion later this year. The eastern entrance hall structure was handed over to Network Rail last year. Once finished, it will house retail units and a 650-space car park, helping to create a modern gateway into the town. Public realm improvements are also underway, with hoardings erected around buildings on Victoria Road to allow for better pedestrian links to Darlington town centre. A new Neasham Road entrance and short-stay drop-off zone are also taking shape. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It’s great to see the final piece of the concourse fitting into place. We handed over the gateway building on time and on budget – and it’s pleasing to see Network Rail are making good progress to get this whole vital project over the line and ready for the people of Darlington this year. “It’s a huge year for our railway heritage – and this project will not only provide the modern station Darlington deserves, but it will also open up huge opportunities for connectivity, trade and freight to and from Teesside and Hartlepool further down the line.” Funded with £98 million from the Department for Transport, the project includes enhancements to track, points, and signalling, alongside the new footbridge, platforms, and concourse building. The station overhaul is part of a broader strategy to future-proof regional rail services and support growth across the North East. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Gensler’s design aims to cultivate a vibrant and collaborative community that provides a platform for scientific discovery and reinforce Wellcome Genome Campus’ mission as a global leader in genomics, biodata, health data and data science. Gensler has been appointed by the Wellcome Genome Campus to design the first life sciences buildings in the new expansion of its site in Hinxton, South Cambridgeshire. The development, which has now received planning approval, comprises two purpose-built life sciences buildings over 200,000 sq. ft. which aims to reinforce the Wellcome Genome Campus’ mission as a global leader in genomics, biodata, health data and data science. Nathan Morgan, Project Director & Global Sciences Leader at Gensler, said: “We are excited to partner with the Wellcome Genome Campus to design the first life sciences buildings in the expansion of its site. This is a significant step forward in Wellcome Genome Campus realising the vision of a globally significant science destination, with strong connections to the local environment and community.” Gensler’s design concept for the first Gateway Research & Translation Buildings on the newly expanded site focuses on delivering a catalyst for ongoing growth. The buildings will be a gateway to the new campus and feature incubator and accelerator spaces alongside market leading amenities including a pub and a café. Set across four floors, Gensler has developed an innovative design which connects both buildings through a creative layering concept that maximised the volume of the lower ground floor to bring natural daylight into the space. The ambition of the design is to create a vibrant scientific ecosystem of incubators, accelerators and commercial tenants whilst also encouraging community connection and engagement across the public spaces on site. Robert Evans, Chief Executive at Wellcome Genome Campus, said: “We are delighted to gain approval for these striking new buildings, which should start on site later this year, as part of our Expansion Phase 1. We are providing world-class facilities for translational research and development, supporting growth and enabling new partnerships and breakthroughs that benefit people everywhere.” The aesthetic for the new buildings is influenced by the local Cambridgeshire vernacular. The design team focused on harmonising traditional and contemporary elements and proportions, ensuring the buildings serve as a gateway while seamlessly integrating with the Cambridgeshire landscape. The local terrain palette of earthy tones also influences the building materials utilised including regionally sourced materials. With a strong focus on sustainability, the Research & Translation Buildings are designed to be in line with the environmental vision for the new campus. The design maximises the use of recycled materials, feature bio-diverse roofs that provide habitats for plants and insects and integrates solar shading into the façade to increase energy savings. The development is targeting BREEAM Outstanding certification, aims to run on renewable energy and contributes to the site-wide target of 25% biodiversity net gain. The Gateway Research & Translation Buildings at the Wellcome Genome Campus, designed by Gensler, form part of the expansion of the site, which marks one of the largest contemporary investments in the UK’s life sciences sector. The expansion aims to advance the life sciences industry and boost the local economy by: The project team includes Gensler, David Lock Associates, AKT II, Churchman Thornhill Finch, Scotch Partners and CB3. For more information, please visit wellcomegenomecampus.org. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work is set to begin on the next phase of the Hollinwood Junction industrial park in Oldham, as developer Langtree secures a major contractor and finalises funding for the £25 million project. Manchester-based contractor Russell WBHO has been appointed to deliver the scheme, following the completion of a forward funding deal with industrial investor Indurent. The project is being brought forward in partnership with Oldham Council. This new phase will see the creation of 13 industrial units ranging from 5,000 to 42,000 square feet, totalling 192,000 square feet of modern distribution and manufacturing space. The development will also include associated parking and service yards. Construction is due to start this month, with practical completion expected in July 2026. Located just off junction 22 of the M60 motorway, the site is a cornerstone of Oldham Council’s regeneration ambitions, which aim to attract new businesses and create local employment opportunities. The wider Hollinwood Junction scheme also includes plans for up to 150 family homes. Chris Harper, pre-construction director at Russell WBHO, said:“This contract builds on our strong track record in the industrial sector. We’re focused on delivering high-quality spaces with strong sustainability credentials, and this project will be no exception. “We’re targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating by using advanced materials, construction methods, and operational systems. Importantly, we’re also committed to using a local supply chain wherever possible to ensure the benefits of the project are felt in the community from day one.” Architecture firm Fletcher Rae is leading on design, with B8 appointed as the scheme’s agent. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Reds10, a leader in industrialised construction, has unveiled a new senior leadership structure to drive the next phase of its ambitious growth strategy, targeting £500m in turnover and accelerating the integration of advanced technologies across the business. At the heart of this evolution is the promotion of three senior leaders, Phil Cook, Joe Shepherd and Ryan Geldard to Managing Directors of their respective divisions. Together they will lead the delivery of Reds10’s strategy to revolutionise construction across Defence, Public Sector and Offsite Manufacture. They will be supported by a strong and experienced leadership team. Scott Laird takes on the newly created role of AI & Technical Director, while Uthira Balachandar continues in her role as Design Director. David Newey and James Bateman remain in their positions as Construction Directors, and Stephanie Mehra continues as Finance Director. This blend of newly promoted and established leaders will drive Reds10’s mission to industrialise construction, embed AI across its operations, and deliver exceptional value to clients. As part of the changes, Chief Executive Matt Bennion will assume a new role at Reds10’s sister company, Thrive-AI after six years in his current role. Matt will focus on accelerating growth at the smart building technology business. Thrive-AI applies machine learning to help clients operate their buildings more efficiently, improve user experience, reduce energy consumption, save money, eliminate redundancy in design and optimise the lifespan of critical assets. Founder and Chairman, Paul Ruddick will assume day to day leadership of the Reds10 business, working closely with the leadership team to scale operations and deepen Reds10’s technological capabilities. Paul Ruddick, Reds10 Founder and Chairman said: ““Following four years of strong growth, we are moving to the next phase of our strategy focused on advancing technologies to fully industrialise our design, production and construction processes and integrate AI across the business. As part of our plan, Matt Bennion is taking on the leadership of Thrive-AI to accelerate its development and growth, while a new generation of leaders takes the helm at Reds10. We thank Matt for his outstanding contribution to date, and we are excited to move forward on our mission to modernise construction, driving up productivity, quality, and sustainability and delivering exceptional value to clients.” Matt Bennion, Reds10 Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted to be able to hand the baton on to the new leadership team.It has been a huge privilege to have worked with them and led such a talented Reds10 team over the past six years. These promotions put Reds10 on a firm footing for the next stage of its development and allow me to hand over my CEO responsibilities, safe in the knowledge that the business will continue to go from strength to strength. I’m excited to be spending more time developing and growing our sister company Thrive-AI, our intelligent building platform that puts end users, operators and asset owners in control of their building, carbon footprint and operating costs. It’s a great business and gives Thrive-AI and Reds10 the opportunity to transform the use and operation of buildings for our customers.” The changes come after Reds10 announced its fourth consecutive year of growth for the year ended 31 March 2024, with revenue rising by 70% YoY to £142.5m. Reds10 designs and builds high-quality sustainable buildings for the public sector, with a particular focus on defence, education, health, justice, accommodation and social housing. The business has a secured pipeline of over £300m of work and turnover is forecast to rise to £160m in the current financial year. Most recently, Reds10 was named by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) as one of five construction companies appointed to a new alliance to build Single Living Accommodation (SLA) for the Armed Forces. Reds10 has set out an ambitious plan to grow its revenue and is targeting an expansion into the healthcare sector, as well as the affordable housing and temporary accommodation sectors, providing high quality sustainable homes for local authorities to help them tackle the housing crisis in their communities. Reds10 manufactures all its buildings off-site and its advancing construction facility in Driffield, East Yorkshire, where it has five factories totalling 300,000 sq ft with the current capacity to produce 4,000 units per year. Following a process of industrialisation this capacity will increase to production of 12,000 units per year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Balfour Beatty VINCI has successfully slid the first part of a major 320-metre-long viaduct into position that will carry high speed trains across the M6 near Birmingham Airport. The first stage of the project – delivered this weekend – saw the ‘East Deck’ of the M6 South viaduct slid 119m out over a slip road adjacent to the motorway. To reduce disruption for motorists, the viaduct deck is being assembled to one side and slid across the motorway over three weekends, with each part pushed out before later sections are added behind them. This multi-stage process means that the weight of the deck will increase with each push from 1,3000 tonnes this weekend, to 3,290 for the final slide. These subsequent slides will take the deck out over the main M6 carriageway and then finally the M6-M42 link roads. The weight includes pre-cast concrete deck slabs on top of the steel structure. Launching the viaduct with the deck units already in place further reduces the number of closures of the motorway. The East Deck will carry two tracks taking trains towards London while an adjacent ‘West Deck’ will carry a further two tracks for services heading to Birmingham and further north. This will be assembled and slid out next year using the same technique. Russell Luckhurst, the Balfour Beatty VINCI’s engineer leading the delivery of the works, said:“This complex viaduct spanning the M6 motorway and adjoining slip roads is really beginning to take shape, now we’ve successfully moved the first section into place. “It’s a huge achievement for the dedicated project team who’ve worked tirelessly over the past three years to reach this point. We’re now focussed on delivering the next phase, which includes two further launches later in the year.” Liam Kenney, HS2 Ltd’s Senior Project Manager said:“It’s great to see the first section of the East Deck in position over the weekend. Once complete, these twin viaducts will carry high speed trains over the M6 helping to improve journeys and free up space on the existing rail network for more freight and local services. “I’d like to thank everyone who is worked so hard to deliver the first slide safely and efficiently opening the road to traffic 11 hours early. The complex operation is being led by Balfour Beatty VINCI, supported by specialist steelwork company Victor Buyck Steel Construction (VBSC). The team are working closely with National Highways and other key local stakeholders including the NEC and Birmingham Airport. Victoria Lazenby, National Highways Regional Director for the Midlands, said:“We know that any work on our roads affects drivers and local communities and always try to keep that disruption to a minimum. So we are delighted by the innovation shown by HS2 and BBV in this complex engineering feat to reduce the impact on road users. “We will continue to work very closely with HS2 to ensure minimum disruption on our roads and are grateful to people for their patience while this major infrastructure scheme is delivered.” The viaduct section was moved using a series of winches, known as strand jacks, at an average speed of twelve metres per hour, sliding across non-stick pads to reduce friction – a material usually found to the surface of a household frying pan. A 36-metre-long temporary launch nose was installed to the front of the structure, to guide the viaduct on its launching path and reduce the weight of the cantilevered section. The viaduct, and the launch nose, will remain in its current position while the next section is assembled. The viaduct is restrained temporarily by equipment located on the piers and the abutments. Each viaduct span is formed of a hollow double-box structure made of weathering steel. This kind of steel boasts a natural protective layer of oxidisation which gives it a characteristic ‘rusty’ appearance and reduces maintenance by eliminating the need for regular repainting. Four pairs of concrete piers support the viaducts with tallest one 9.9m in height. A 4.5m high parapet will be provided on the side facing the Chelmsely Wood to reduce noise and disturbance from passing trains. The structural design has been carried out by Balfour Beatty VINCI’s Design Joint Venture, made up of Mott MacDonald and SYSTRA. Tom Dutton, Senior Design Co-ordinator for the Mott MacDonald SYSTRA DJV, said: “The launch of the first deck of the two-deck M6 Motorway South Viaduct marks an exciting milestone following years of dedicated design work. We have seen the design take shape as the foundations, piers, and abutments were constructed, and now the moment has arrived for the deck to be launched. “The launch design is a fantastic example of collaboration between Mott MacDonald SYSTRA DJV colleagues in the UK and France, BBV, and their steelwork and launching contractor, Victor Buyck Steel Construction. Together, we have addressed the complex challenges of the temporary works and the fabrication of the steel diaphragm—not to mention the feat of launching the viaduct decks over the M6 motorway itself. “This achievement is a testament to our collective effort and a fantastic milestone for the immediate team and the whole project.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award winning construction firm McPhillips (Wellington) Ltd has delivered a new £2.6m chilled storage warehouse and office development for food distribution specialists Dale Brothers. McPhillips was principal contractor on the complex project in Telford which was handed over to the temperature-controlled food distribution specialists within the 37-week time frame and within budget. Alongside the 65m x 20m temperature-controlled facility with roller shutter doors providing loading and unloading access, the project comprised a high quality two storey office space with two kitchens, meeting rooms and cloakroom facilities. Dale Brothers managing director Robin Dale said: “Choosing the right construction partner for our development was crucial. McPhillips proved to be the perfect choice, demonstrating exceptional expertise in delivering precisely what our operation needed. “Their technical capability was evident throughout the project, from the intelligent re-use of existing materials through to the sophisticated construction of our 65m x 20m temperature-controlled facility. The team’s attention to detail in creating both the chilled storage area and our new modern office space was impressive. “What particularly stood out was McPhillips’ project management expertise. They delivered this complex build, which included specialist elements such as cold storage panels, dock levellers, and state-of-the-art M&E installations, exactly on schedule over the 37-week programme. Even more impressively, they achieved this while staying within our original budget. “As a Telford-based business ourselves, it was particularly satisfying to work with a local construction partner who understood our needs and delivered such high-quality results. The new facility has significantly enhanced our operational capabilities, and McPhillips’ professional approach made the entire process smooth and efficient. Paul Inions, managing director of McPhillips, said: “This was an incredibly rewarding project to work on, not least because it was in support of a Telford-based business with the same values and ambitions as us: local growth, investment and employment. “It was a complex build that began with us having to break up and crush an existing concrete hardstanding with the arising re-used on site in the permanent works, and finished externally with the construction of a new reinforced concrete yard, concrete bases for cooling plant, a new sub-station and the installation of four EV charging points. “We look forward to seeing the facility being part of Dale Brothers’, and indeed Telford’s, continued demonstration of excellence and success.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hamilton (Building Contractors), one of the largest and longest-standing specialist facade contractors in the UK has appointed Martin Walker BSc (Hons), MCIOB as Regional Director for the South as the company continues a period of exceptional growth. Martin brings over 20 years of experience and a proven track record in delivering high-value, complex construction projects across the UK for industry giants including Balfour Beatty and Mulalley. A Chartered Construction Manager and a respected member of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB), Martin is well known for his operational excellence and strategic insight. In late 2024, he became one of the first six construction professionals to complete the Chartered Institute of Building’s (CIOB) Principal Contractor Competency Scheme. This sets a new benchmark for the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours expected of Principal Contractors. Martin’s appointment, which will see him based at the company’s new Dartford office, comes during an incredible period of growth for Hamilton with turnover set to double to over £50m in 2025. In line with this expansion,15 new team members have joined the company this year alone, strengthening both the health and safety and management teams. Commenting on his appointment Martin Walker said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Hamilton at such an important time in the company’s journey. I have worked with the team on a wide range of previous projects and the Hamilton name is synonymous with quality. “There is a strong, values-led culture with a clear commitment to quality, people and delivery and I am looking forward to playing a key role in helping to shape and support the company’s continued growth. “The construction industry on the whole is navigating a challenging landscape at the moment with rising costs, skill shortages and constantly evolving regulations creating pressures across the sector. “However, these challenges also present opportunities and Hamilton is perfectly placed to leverage its expertise and collaborative approach to deliver safe, high-quality projects that meet the demands of today’s market and build resilience for the future.” Daniel Mackie, Director at Hamilton, added: “Martin is the perfect addition to our growing team and his appointment reflects our commitment to investing in outstanding talent as we grow. His depth of experience, technical expertise and leadership approach make him the ideal candidate to drive our operations in the South. “Wtih many major projects underway in his region and more set to come online in the coming months his experience will be instrumental in ensuring we continue to deliver excellence for our clients while scaling sustainably and strategically.” Hamilton is currently delivering a wide range of high-profile schemes including façade and refurbishment works at Burley Street in Leeds, extensive external upgrades at Lewisham Park Towers in London and a large-scale social housing retrofit programme in Hull. These projects reflect Hamilton’s reputation for delivering safety-led and sustainability-focused solutions in partnership with leading contractors and public sector clients. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Prime Minister has announced a new AI-powered tool, “Extract,” aimed at streamlining administrative processes within the planning system and supporting the delivery of 1.5 million homes over the next Parliament. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the Royal Town Planning Institute, said: “While AI tools can help alleviate the pressures of a planner’s day-to-day work, they must support, not replace, planners’ local discretion, expertise, and judgement in decision-making processes. “We welcome the use of AI to make admin tasks faster and more efficient, build sound and consistent evidence bases for Local Plans, and free up planners to focus their time and expertise where it is needed most. “Planning decisions require professional expertise to consider subjective, creative and complex considerations. Whilst AI tools no doubt have a helpful part to play, they can be no substitute for professional advice, common sense and emotional intelligence. There’s no value in processing applications more quickly if the developments that follow are low-quality.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group, has made two senior sales appointments as part of its ongoing expansion, reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality homes across key regions. Eloise Solari joins as Head of Sales for London and Sarah Boyce takes on the role of Head of Sales for the South West and Southern divisions. Their appointments reflect Hill’s strategic growth in these regions, as the company continues to expand its development pipeline. Eloise and Sarah bring extensive experience in residential sales and a deep understanding of their respective markets. Eloise’s career has focused on central London with previous roles at Ballymore, Taylor Wimpey Central London and Galliard Homes where she led the sales team at flagship developments. Her expertise will be instrumental in shaping Hill’s sales strategies for its major London developments, including Kew Bridge Rise, Lampton Parkside, North Gate Park and Dagenham Green. Additionally, she brings valuable experience in partnership work and has excellent relationships with agents. Sarah joins Hill at a pivotal time for its South West expansion, with Bristol and its surrounding areas being a core focus. She spent twenty years with Berkeley Group, rising to Sales and Marketing Director for the Oxford and Chiltern division. Sarah has also held roles at Redrow Thames Valley, HarperCrewe, and Crest Nicholson in Bristol. The South West is a key strategic region for Hill, with a robust development pipeline that includes three key upcoming projects in central Bristol — the former Bristol Zoo car park site in Clifton, a recently approved development in Southville, and Baltic Wharf on Spike Island, overlooking the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, said: “I am pleased to welcome Eloise and Sarah to lead the sales teams in these two important strategic regions for The Hill Group. Their expertise will be invaluable in driving sales to support our expansion in London, Bristol and the South West. At Hill, we are committed to delivering exceptional homes that are thoughtfully designed for their locations, and both Eloise and Sarah share this passion. They bring a wealth of market insight and a deep understanding of delivering quality homes that add value to communities. We look forward to supporting them as they take on these key roles and contribute to our growing presence in these regions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
