Merry Hill has announced that Marks & Spencer will be introducing its latest store concept to the top 10 UK destination, following a combined significant investment package from the acclaimed British retailer and landlord. M&S has been at Merry Hill for 35 years, first opening in 1990. The decision to
Procurement Hub, part of Places for People (PfP), is delighted to announce a two-year extension of its Major Projects Framework 2 (MPF2) after generating over £300million in social value. The framework, which will now run until 2028, was launched in 2022, and has already delivered hundreds of local jobs and
Construction has officially commenced on a community fire station rebuild in Whitefield for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), led by Robertson Construction North West. Located on Bury New Road, the new Whitefield Community Fire Station is part of GMFRS’s £38m Estates Improvement Programme and is thoughtfully designed to
Metrocentre in Gateshead has announced a wave of new investment, as four well-known brands commit to revitalising and upgrading their presence within the shopping destination’s Platinum and Green Malls. Boots, the health and beauty giant, has led the charge with a significant refurbishment of its existing 40,000 sq ft unit
Exciting Opportunity for Gym Operator as Leisure Use Approved for AM Sci Tech at Bridge of Don Site AM Sci Tech is pleased to announce that its planning application to change the use of the Innovation Centre at Aberdeen Energy Park has been approved by Aberdeen City Council. The decision
Architectural practice Stephen George + Partners (SGP) has announced that work has completed on a scheme in Salford, Greater Manchester, that has seen the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches into new destinations for businesses to occupy. Triton Construction was appointed as main contractor for the scheme late last year,
Ofgem has given its initial approval to a landmark £24bn investment package aimed at transforming Britain’s energy grid and reducing dependence on imported gas. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has provisionally endorsed, subject to consultation, a programme of 80 infrastructure projects focused on new power lines and
Saint-Gobain Weber and REGUPOL in partnership with CMS Danskin Acoustics have collaborated to develop, test and launch a suite of new impact sound insulation floor systems designed to reduce sound transmission. The new ‘weberfloor acoustic systems’ can be used to meet challenging acoustics targets across both new construction and refurbishment
West Fraser is promoting its carbon negative message via eight sponsored natural gas powered ‘eco trucks’, operating from Selco’s Minworth Delivery Hub which covers Birmingham and surrounding areas. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles emit up to 25% less carbon dioxide (CO2) and release fewer harmful pollutants into the air than
HGL signed a lease agreement for another 10,000 sqm in the HelloParks industrial real estate developer’s Maglód megapark. The dynamically-growing logistics service provider started operations last year on 5,000 sqm in the MG1 warehouse of the industrial and logistics park located near the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. With the
Merry Hill has announced that Marks & Spencer will be introducing its latest store concept to the top 10 UK destination, following a combined significant investment package from the acclaimed British retailer and landlord. M&S has been at Merry Hill for 35 years, first opening in 1990. The decision to invest in the centre, introducing a brand-new fit-out and an M&S café for the first time, signifies a long-term commitment from the brand, creating a best-in-class anchor space for Merry Hill. The destination has been transformed in recent years with other anchor brand additions such as Hollywood Bowl, Harvey Norman, and XF Gym. Working in partnership with Merry Hill’s owners, M&S will be consolidating its offer from its two current units into one, with the store next to Primark set to expand to an overall area of 93,000 sq ft to accommodate the new concept. It will include a full fashion collection across womenswear, kidswear, and menswear, as well as larger home and beauty departments, and a refreshed, larger Foodhall. The destination will also be home to a new-look M&S standalone café in-mall area when the refurbished store opens in late 2025. Graeme Jones, Executive Director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, on behalf of Merry Hill, commented: “The last couple of years have been transformational for Merry Hill, and agreeing with M&S to invest in the destination means we’re carrying that momentum forward. They have a strong legacy here and the move into one store will provide them with a great platform for growth which will also benefit the centre as a whole, particularly our customers. “It’s no coincidence that M&S’ investment has come to Merry Hill, joining our super regional peers in having the latest concept from a brand every destination wants. That makes this collaboration incredibly important as it means we can showcase M&S as a key anchor tenant with a lasting commitment to Merry Hill, delivering the best experience possible for our visitors.” Merry Hill’s anchor tenants have all invested in the centre in recent years. It is now anchored by two new leisure experiences in Hollywood Bowl and XF Gym, as well as an English debut and flagship for international retailer Harvey Norman, and the likes of H&M, Next, and now M&S have all upgraded their stores, ensuring the best possible visitor experience and inspiring other brands to follow suit. JLL, Time Retail Partners, and Font Real Estate represent Merry Hill. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Procurement Hub, part of Places for People (PfP), is delighted to announce a two-year extension of its Major Projects Framework 2 (MPF2) after generating over £300million in social value. The framework, which will now run until 2028, was launched in 2022, and has already delivered hundreds of local jobs and apprenticeships, creating new opportunities. With the recent introduction of the new National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) alongside the Procurement Act, delivering social and economic value is more important than ever. MPF2 stands as an established and accredited service to help organisations meet these requirements. Created to deliver a better way to build across the UK, MPF2 has supported all types of construction projects for a range of sectors from housing, health, transport, education and more. The £4.2 billion framework was awarded the Gold Standard by Constructing Excellence last year, making Procurement Hub and PfP the first social enterprise and non-governmental organisation to receive this accreditation, as well as the first UK housing provider to be recognised. Alan Heron, Director of Procurement for Procurement Hub and Places for People, said: “We are so proud of the results MPF2 has delivered so far and are delighted it has been extended until 2028. Designed to help the public sector build faster, smarter and fairer, the gold standard accreditation ensures construction projects not only meet high standards in efficiency and safety but also deliver long-term value and sustainable outcomes. “With the NPPS now requiring contracting authorities to focus on driving economic growth, delivering social and economic value and building commercial capacity when making procurement decisions, we can confidently say the MPF2 covers all these areas and more. “In addition to enabling clients to benefit in all areas of procurement, the projects also support local people and skills through apprenticeships and jobs, with 100% of surplus fees donated to charities, supporting social value projects or reinvested directly into the public sector.” MPF2 has been established with three regional lots covering Scotland, England and Wales, and Northern Ireland, and sets out to be the most socially conscious, greenest, financially robust, and flexible framework available, enabling clients to benefit in all areas of procurement. Robertson Construction Group (Scotland), Willmott Dixon Construction Ltd (England and Wales), and Farrans Construction (Northern Ireland) were appointed to MPF2 following a strict procurement process ahead of the 2022 launch. With a total value of £1.821bn, 22 projects have been completed with 73 currently in progress across the UK. Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Our long-standing partnership with Procurement Hub is rooted in trust, collaboration and a shared ambition to maximise value and community wealth building. MPF2 offers our customers an efficient and transparent route that ensures greater control from the start of projects, bringing in SME and the local supply chain earlier to create targeted, local socio-economic opportunities. This impact is evident in the 12 high-quality projects we have completed since 2022, worth £321 million, achieving 99.5% local and SME spend, and generating £142.5 million in measurable social value. “With the extension of MPF2, we look forward to continuing this momentum – delivering best value for our customers, supporting communities, and ensuring our projects create lasting benefits where they are needed most.” Chris Farr, Director for Strategic Accounts at Willmott Dixon said, “We’ve delivered some amazing projects for customers under the framework, including the new Soho Theatre in Walthamstow that’s just been completed, the multi award-winning Halifax Bus Station, a reconfiguration of Brent Civic Centre to improve the visitor experience, and Abergavenny Police Station to support local community policing. We’re delighted that the MPF2 is extending for a further two years, it will help us continue to provide excellent outcomes for customers which includes our programmes to deliver social value in local communities as a lasting legacy of our involvement in their projects.” Mark Beacom, Pre-Construction Director at Farrans, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Procurement Hub to facilitate the delivery of the MPF2 extension in Northern Ireland. This framework provides all types of construction work for a range of sectors from health, transport, education and more, ensuring that much-needed projects can progress in a timely, sustainable and flexible way.” Features of the MPF2 include Support from Procurement Hub’s dedicated framework management team. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction has officially commenced on a community fire station rebuild in Whitefield for Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), led by Robertson Construction North West. Located on Bury New Road, the new Whitefield Community Fire Station is part of GMFRS’s £38m Estates Improvement Programme and is thoughtfully designed to support the next generation of emergency response. The new-build station will feature a reconfigured, more accessible layout and will be equipped with sustainable facilities, creating a modern fire station for the local community and beyond. Work began in May with the demolition of the existing station, clearing the way for the two-storey building that will benefit from a revitalised appliance bay, a state-of-the-art training tower, improved landscaping, and upgraded parking facilities. Material from the demolition has been repurposed to create the substrate for the new station, resulting in minimum waste leaving the site. The project has been designed to achieve BREAAM Excellent and will feature 47 solar panels. Whitefield is one of several fire stations being rebuilt across Greater Manchester. Robertson took over as main contractor for delivering both Whitefield and Blackley in March, after the previous contractor went into administration. This process was completed thoroughly and without delay and construction is now back on track. The new stations will include sustainable heating and lighting systems to support Greater Manchester’s target to become a carbon neutral city-region by 2038. Kate Green, Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Safer and Stronger Communities, said: “GMFRS has been making strong progress over recent years and the improvements to our estate will only solidify this and push us further forward. “Our investment in our estate will create facilities the community can engage with and be proud of. We’re determined that there won’t be any reduction in fire cover across Greater Manchester, and that’s why we’re investing in new stations and additional fire engines. Communities can be confident that there will no effect on the standard and level of service while these vital rebuilds take place.” Paul Coyle, Commercial Director, Robertson Construction North West, said: “Robertson has been involved in delivering projects for the blue light sector for many years across the UK. Working with Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service we will be providing a modern, high-quality facility which will enhance emergency response capabilities and meet the evolving needs of the community. “Using modern construction techniques designed to improve efficiency, quality and sustainability, we will be contributing to Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s Estates Improvement Programme and the region’s ambition to become a carbon neutral city-region by 2038. We will also extend our work further into the community, as a responsible contractor, we are committed to creating community wealth through the provision of local employment opportunities, supporting skills development and local engagement.” Dave Russel, Chief Fire Officer, GMFRS, said: “The beginning of construction on our second new-build community fire station is very exciting. These new fire stations will provide a positive and engaging presence in their local communities while giving our staff modern facilities. “I am proud of all the work that has gone into our estates programme, building an estate that is fit for a modern Greater Manchester.” The new-look fire station is set to be complete by October 2026, with Whitefield’s firefighters working from a temporary station on Bury New Road, ensuring the community will receive the same level of cover while the work takes place. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Metrocentre in Gateshead has announced a wave of new investment, as four well-known brands commit to revitalising and upgrading their presence within the shopping destination’s Platinum and Green Malls. Boots, the health and beauty giant, has led the charge with a significant refurbishment of its existing 40,000 sq ft unit in the Green Mall. A tenant for nearly four decades, Boots has modernised its store to enhance accessibility to both its product range and opticians’ services. In the Platinum Mall, Clintons has completed a major store refit, unveiling a new retail concept that includes a wider selection of gifts and party supplies, complementing its established greetings card offering. Fellow Platinum Mall occupant and tour operator Kuoni has also invested in its space, installing a sleek new digital window display and reconfiguring the interior layout to create a more contemporary and engaging environment for customers. Rounding out the quartet, café chain Muffin Break – a longstanding Metrocentre favourite – has launched its new store concept, offering visitors an upgraded and refreshed experience. Ben Cox, Director at Sovereign Centros (part of CBRE), asset manager of Metrocentre, commented: “This cluster of brand investments clearly demonstrates Metrocentre’s continued importance within the retail landscape. Our close partnerships with occupiers play a crucial role in creating an exceptional shopping experience, and we are committed to helping brands maximise their potential within the centre. These enhancements reflect strong confidence in the destination and a long-term commitment from retailers.” The latest upgrades follow the recent announcement that Urban Outfitters will open its first UK store of the year at Metrocentre, occupying 8,000 sq ft in the Upper Mall – further cementing the centre’s position as a premier retail hub in the North East.
Exciting Opportunity for Gym Operator as Leisure Use Approved for AM Sci Tech at Bridge of Don Site AM Sci Tech is pleased to announce that its planning application to change the use of the Innovation Centre at Aberdeen Energy Park has been approved by Aberdeen City Council. The decision grants permission to convert the building from Class 4 (Business Use) to Class 11 (Leisure Use), paving the way for the development of a high-quality gym or fitness facility at the heart of the growing Bridge of Don community. Located on Exploration Drive, the Innovation Centre is a modern, standalone building set over two floors and extending to approximately 14,000 sq ft (1,300 sq m). With a striking atrium, generous floorplan, high ceilings and excellent on-site parking, it offers an ideal setting for a gym operator looking to establish a presence in a vibrant and expanding area. The approved change of use comes at a time of major residential growth in the surrounding neighbourhood. With nearly 900 new homes under construction or in the planning pipeline from developers such as Cala and Persimmon Homes, demand for accessible fitness and leisure amenities has surged. The new facility will play a key role in supporting active lifestyles and enhancing community well-being. Gordon Pirie, Asset Manager at Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks, commented: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission for the change of use at the Innovation Centre. This approval marks a major step forward in delivering a new leisure facility that supports the needs of residents and businesses alike. A gym operator will bring real added value to the park and to the wider Bridge of Don area.” The site offers excellent connectivity to Aberdeen city centre and the wider region, with direct access to key arterial routes including the AWPR. Its location ensures convenience for both residents and the many professionals working within the business park. The introduction of a gym aligns with AM Sci Tech’s wider vision for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks as a multi-purpose destination, home to a mix of office, industrial, and now leisure amenities. This expansion will further enhance the park’s reputation as a hub for business, health, and lifestyle. With planning permission now secured, AM Sci Tech is actively seeking expressions of interest from gym operators and leisure providers ready to capitalise on this unique opportunity. For more information or to discuss potential opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact Gordon Pirie on 07525 240 453. Knight Frank and Ryden are joint agents for Aberdeen Energy & Innovation Parks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Architectural practice Stephen George + Partners (SGP) has announced that work has completed on a scheme in Salford, Greater Manchester, that has seen the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches into new destinations for businesses to occupy. Triton Construction was appointed as main contractor for the scheme late last year, following a receipt by the Arch Company of planning consent. Alan Soper, Studio Director at SGP, comments: “We are delighted to see work complete on the transformation of these historical arch structures into spaces for businesses to develop and thrive. Located in a key area of regeneration and renewal within Greater Manchester, The Arch Company’s investment will help to provide new spaces where businesses can thrive.” As design architect for the scheme SGP has drawn on both its technical expertise and strong track record working with historic buildings to create contemporary spaces, which nod to the industrial heritage of the arches. The scheme includes new glazed frontages, new services and drainage and internal lining to make the accommodation dry and ready for new businesses to occupy. The design incorporates high-quality materials that have restored an attractive appearance to the elevations on Norton Street, creating a parade of arches that will appeal to a range of businesses. Working in partnership with SGP, multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard provided structural, civil, and MEP engineering services to support the transformation of the arches. Matt Barron, Associate Structural Engineer at Pick Everard, commented: “The refurbishment of the arches required a sensitive approach to ensure the integrity of the existing structure was maintained while enabling the modifications required for the project. With careful coordination of the structural interventions within the existing arch structures, our team worked closely with SGP to achieve the architectural design intent for the arch spaces. It’s been a fantastic project to be a part of, and we look forward to seeing these rejuvenated spaces contribute to the benefit of the local area.” SGP’s design has sought to overcome a number of technical, environmental and planning constraints that are inherent within existing urban infrastructure of this type, as Alan Soper explains: “By any standards, arches are not a ‘normal’ building type and realising the potential of these spaces takes experience and good technical know-how if we are to refurbish them to modern occupancy standards.” Norton Street is just one of several projects on which SGP is working with The Arch Company, with a number now on site or completed. In London, work has already been completed on the redevelopment of six vacant railway arches on Witan Street into high-specification commercial premises for light industrial use; while on America Street in Southwark, work has completed on the transformation of four dilapidated railway arches into commercial spaces. For further information visit www.thearchco.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ofgem has given its initial approval to a landmark £24bn investment package aimed at transforming Britain’s energy grid and reducing dependence on imported gas. The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has provisionally endorsed, subject to consultation, a programme of 80 infrastructure projects focused on new power lines and substations. The investment forms part of the biggest overhaul of the UK’s electricity network since the 1960s. More than £15bn of the proposed funding is earmarked for maintaining the safety and reliability of the UK’s gas transmission and distribution networks. A further £8.9bn will go directly into strengthening the country’s high-voltage electricity grid, with an additional £1.3bn on standby for rapid deployment. This investment marks the first stage of the RIIO-T3 settlement (April 2026 to March 2031) and will kick off a broader, estimated £80bn infrastructure programme designed to modernise the energy grid. The plan includes upgrading over 4,400 km of overhead lines and adding 3,500 km of new circuits, including offshore developments—doubling what has been delivered over the past decade. If completed as expected, the projects will enable the grid to support up to 126 GW of clean, renewable energy by 2030, alongside increased energy storage and flexible technologies. Over the past six months, Ofgem has closely scrutinised the proposals from electricity transmission owners, National Gas, and gas distribution operators. More than £8bn—around 26% of the original proposals—has been trimmed to ensure the plans offer value for money to consumers. Funding allocations include: Jonathan Brearley, Ofgem Chief Executive, commented: “Britain’s dependence on imported gas has left us vulnerable to global market shocks. Without government support, bills could have soared to £4,000 during the energy crisis.This record investment is vital to building a homegrown energy system—one that protects us from price volatility, strengthens our energy security, and helps stabilise bills.” Brearley emphasised that inaction would cost consumers more in the long term. “Doing nothing is not an option. These 80 projects are an insurance policy for the UK’s energy future. We’ve negotiated a fair deal for investors and consumers alike—and we will hold network operators accountable for delivering on time and within budget.” By March 2031, the estimated cost to billpayers is expected to be around £24 a year, or less than 40p per week. This figure does not include the broader cost savings anticipated from a cleaner, more efficient power system. The draft proposals are now open for consultation, with final decisions due by the end of 2025. However, some energy firms have expressed disappointment, arguing that the scale of ambition should have been greater. SSEN Transmission responded: “Ofgem’s draft determination falls short of the ambitious and financeable framework needed to support transformational grid investment. The methodology does not reflect the real, evidence-based costs of delivering a reliable transmission network in northern Scotland.” Despite these concerns, Ofgem remains confident that the proposed investment strikes the right balance between affordability, resilience, and long-term sustainability. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Saint-Gobain Weber and REGUPOL in partnership with CMS Danskin Acoustics have collaborated to develop, test and launch a suite of new impact sound insulation floor systems designed to reduce sound transmission. The new ‘weberfloor acoustic systems’ can be used to meet challenging acoustics targets across both new construction and refurbishment projects, including residential, healthcare, commercial and leisure schemes. Aimed at making acoustic floor system specification more straightforward for architects, acousticians, contractors and installers who are designing and delivering developments where controlling impact sound is required or desired, the new weberfloor acoustic systems work with most floor finishes, such as LVT, sheet vinyl, laminate, timber, ceramic tiles and carpet. The collaboration draws together Weber’s flooring screed expertise developed over more than 40 years, REGUPOL’s cutting-edge acoustic product technology and the strengths of leading acoustic insulation supplier CMS Danskin Acoustics. The capabilities of the three respected brands have been combined to offer the construction market this new, wide range of fully tested acoustic flooring options. Fully tested for compatibility, the weberfloor acoustic systems unite Weber screeds and smoothing/levelling compounds with REGUPOL impact sound insulating membranes for both under screed and over screed applications to reduce noise transmission. Each component of the system is equally important in achieving the specified acoustic performance. Acoustic under screed and over screed system product selectors are clearly outlined in Weber’s new Acoustic Flooring Solutions brochure, which can be downloaded at https://www.uk.weber/weberfloor-acoustic-systems. The systems are also shown on CMS Danskin Acoustics’ website at https://www.cmsdanskin.co.uk/weber/ . Product specific technical data sheets are available from Weber and from CMS Danskin Acoustics. “In today’s construction landscape, where noise pollution is a concern, the need for effective sound insulation is critical. This is where weberfloor acoustic systems will come into play by offering solutions designed to improve the acoustic quality of spaces,” says Ian Dennis, Weber’s National Flooring Manager. “With three market leaders at the heart of these new acoustic systems, this is a significant development,” explains UK REGUPOL consultant Jamie Symons. “The market can be assured of the compatibility and integrity of the weberfloor acoustic systems, making product selection much simpler.” Andy Hayes, technical manager at CMS Danskin Acoustics and Associate Member of the IoA, adds, “The extensive development and testing work at the foundation of these systems means that, when specifying the weberfloor acoustic systems, the market can be confident in achieving both effective acoustic performance and excellent loading performance with minimal construction height.” The weberfloor acoustic systems are supported by a fully trained team of specification and technical managers who can guide clients throughout their specification and installation journey. Training, including CPD modules for architects and installers, will be announced shortly. https://www.uk.weber/weberfloor-acoustic-systems Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
West Fraser is promoting its carbon negative message via eight sponsored natural gas powered ‘eco trucks’, operating from Selco’s Minworth Delivery Hub which covers Birmingham and surrounding areas. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles emit up to 25% less carbon dioxide (CO2) and release fewer harmful pollutants into the air than traditionally powered vehicles; the collaboration highlights the connection between Selco’s sustainability goals and West Fraser’s Carbon Negative panels that promote sustainability from “tree to truck”. Daniel Andrew, Senior Account Manager at West Fraser, explains, “West Fraser is proud to collaborate with our valued partner, Selco, and sponsor these new environmentally friendlier trucks. We are highlighting the commitment both our businesses have to decrease the impact we have on our environment, by promoting our net carbon negative wood panels and transporting these on eco trucks. This type of partnership is detailed in West Fraser’s 2024 Sustainability Report, Building Together: People and Partnerships. The report details our collaborative approach and measures West Fraser’s sustainability performance across a variety of environmental, social and governance goals and disclosed targets, and shows West Fraser’s path towards achieving our goal of being a sustainability leader.” Lee Taylor, Category Manager at Selco, elaborates, “At Selco Builders Warehouse, we are firmly focused on continuing to develop a long-term and sustainable business model. We are focused on the effects our operations are having on the environment, and we’ve already made important strides forward, from fitting LED lighting across our entire estate, to beginning an overhaul of our transport system. We have a responsibility, not only to the environment and the local communities in which we operate, but also to manufacturers, suppliers, and hauliers. The Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) blueprint for what we can achieve over the next decade includes the creation of three UK “Selco forests” which have seen more than 300,000 trees planted which, during their lifecycle, will help to offset some of the carbon generated by customer deliveries. In addition, we recognise the importance of supplying renewable and sustainable building materials and products. This is where West Fraser comes in and we are delighted that they are reinforcing our message by sponsoring our CNG trucks. We have started an engagement programme with key suppliers to identify the sustainable products which already feature in our product ranges and identify new opportunities. Specific marketing materials are created to engage both customers and colleagues with these products.” For further information, call 01786 812 921 or visit https://uk.westfraser.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
HGL signed a lease agreement for another 10,000 sqm in the HelloParks industrial real estate developer’s Maglód megapark. The dynamically-growing logistics service provider started operations last year on 5,000 sqm in the MG1 warehouse of the industrial and logistics park located near the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. With the current expansion, it will now conduct its activities on a total of 15,000 sqm. HGL plays a key role in processing e-commerce goods arriving in the European Union through Hungary. The company handles product arrival, customs clearance, and forwarding to the European market in Maglód, which requires fast turnaround, modern infrastructure, and reliable operations. “HelloParks Maglód offers a modern and predictable operating environment that fully meets our fast-paced and high-volume logistics needs. Based on our experience over the past year, it was clear that we wanted to further expand our capacity here,” said Paul Szeman, Chief Executive Officer of HGL Group. The current agreement not only signals HGL’s strengthening but also proves the viability of HelloParks’ airport-proximity strategy. The e-commerce company’s goal is to build a service ecosystem that comprehensively serves the needs of logistics, customs, and freight forwarding companies operating in the airport area. “HGL’s expansion is important feedback for us, as a globally active, high-volume logistics partner has decided to begin significant development in our Maglód megapark and commit to us long-term. This agreement is particularly valuable in that we managed to conclude it during a period that is challenging from a market perspective,” said András Bodahelyi, HelloParks’ senior business development manager. The HelloParks Maglód megapark currently has two completed warehouse buildings, MG1 and MG3, offering a total of 91,000 sqm of leasable space. Some 95 per cent of the available space in the buildings is already occupied, primarily due to strong demand from companies in the airport region. The MG1 warehouse is the first industrial property in Hungary to achieve BREEAM sustainability certification at the Excellent level in the New Construction category. Construction of a third warehouse, MG4, is currently underway in the Maglód industrial park, and the industrial real estate developer is already conducting advanced negotiations for its available space. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
