The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has appointed McLaren Construction to deliver a £100 million retrofit and extension of its 1950s building at 35 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, creating a new home for the Firoz Lalji Global Hub. Designed by David Chipperfield Architects, the scheme is set to
Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has secured consent from Camden Council to refurbish 26 Red Lion Square, its 106,584 sq ft (NIA) speculative office development in Holborn. Railpen’s plans involve upgrading eight floors of office space to a Grade A standard, enhancing the amenity
Millions of pounds in home insurance claims could be at risk each year due to faulty or missing smoke alarms, according to new research. A study by comparison site Go.Compare, drawing on data from the Home Office, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and StatsWales, revealed that in the year ending
Wingstop has unveiled its fifth Leeds restaurant, opening at The Springs retail and leisure destination. The 3,014 sq ft venue offers the brand’s full menu of wings, tenders, burgers, and sides, alongside a range of drinks. The new branch joins Wingstop’s growing Leeds portfolio, which already includes locations at Cardigan
After the terrific success of the first phase of development at Stud Brook Business Park, Clowes Developments are now cracking on with their contractors Roe Developments with the next phase of smaller units ranging from circa 3,000 sq ft to 9,000 sq ft. Benefitting from terrific prominence and visibility off
Cardiff’s City Hall, a Grade I listed Edwardian iconic landmark opened by Lord Bute in 1906, stands as a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur and historical significance. The first phase of the works focuses on replacing the outdated mechanical and electrical infrastructure. This includes the design, manufacture, supply, installation, and
A multinational manufacturer of cutting-edge aluminium fire safety systems for commercial buildings is confident its latest product will help it grow its UK presence following a return to its former Coventry base. Aluflam, founded in Denmark in 1943, manufactures and distributes fire rated aluminium systems which can be installed into
Today’s offices and homes can be complicated. With plumbing, wiring, insulation, and other systems, an entire world exists beneath the surface of an apparently simple property. Many people are unaware how the buildings, they live or work in, function the way they do. They simply hope that they work the
MPs across the UK are being urged to support the second Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week as campaigners highlight the urgent need for coordinated action on a widespread housing crisis that costs the NHS over £1.4 billion every year. The week, taking place from 20–26 October, was first
A major fire has destroyed the historic Raven Hotel in Droitwich, leaving the Grade II-listed building severely damaged. The blaze broke out on 10 August 2025, prompting a large-scale response from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS). Eight fire engines, along with specialist vehicles and equipment, were deployed
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) has appointed McLaren Construction to deliver a £100 million retrofit and extension of its 1950s building at 35 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, creating a new home for the Firoz Lalji Global Hub. Designed by David Chipperfield Architects, the scheme is set to become the UK’s largest Passivhaus retrofit and an exemplar of circular economy principles. Approximately 60% of the existing structure will be retained, with the top three floors and roof plant enclosure replaced by a lightweight cross-laminated timber extension. The redevelopment will expand the building’s total area from 9,856 to 11,848 square metres. A major transformation will see the removal of an internal infill structure, creating a spacious atrium and improving circulation. A new ground floor and partial first floor slab will deliver level access into the building, while the remodelled layout will accommodate not only the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa but also the Department of Mathematics, Department of Statistics, Executive Education, and the Data Science Institute. Facilities will include lecture halls, seminar rooms, offices, a dining area, a ground floor café, and the 270-seat LSE Agora theatre, designed for debates and broadcasts. Cycle storage, changing facilities, and mechanical plant will be located at basement level, with green and blue roofs, photovoltaic panels, and new mechanical systems installed on the roof. Targeting BREEAM Outstanding, Passivhaus certification, and WELL Platinum, the building will exceed London’s ambitious targets for carbon, energy, water use, and biodiversity. Sustainability consultant Buro Happold is working with McLaren to reduce embodied carbon by rethinking material choices, eliminating unnecessary components, and sourcing low-carbon alternatives. Salvaged materials, including parquet flooring, brass inlays, lighting fixtures, ceramic tiles, and reclaimed brickwork, will be reused. The project also sources materials from other nearby construction sites to support the circular economy. The adaptable and deconstructable design will help extend the building’s lifespan while minimising its environmental impact. Externally, the eight-storey brick structure will be refreshed with a lime-based, off-white wash, preserving the texture of the original masonry while complementing its setting in the Strand Conservation Area. Positioned between the Grade II* listed Royal College of Surgeons and the Grade II listed former Land Registry building, the scheme is designed to enhance the historic streetscape surrounding Lincoln’s Inn Fields. Julian Robinson, director of estates at LSE, described the project as a major milestone in the university’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and academic excellence. McLaren’s London and South managing director Darren Gill added that the work demonstrates how advanced retrofit methods can revitalise older buildings into world-class spaces while sharply reducing both embodied and operational carbon. Supported by a £28 million donation from Ugandan Asian businessman Firoz Lalji, the development is scheduled for completion in 2027 and is set to stand as a model for sustainable design in higher education. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has secured consent from Camden Council to refurbish 26 Red Lion Square, its 106,584 sq ft (NIA) speculative office development in Holborn. Railpen’s plans involve upgrading eight floors of office space to a Grade A standard, enhancing the amenity space on the ground floor, and constructing new roof terraces with panoramic views of St Paul’s and the West End. The completed development will be repositioned as a new HQ targeting major occupiers and fostering a sense of community for future occupiers. Designed by Stiff + Trevillion, Railpen’s proposals include new and improved external façades on Theobolds Road and Red Lion Square to promote high quality design in Holborn, and new retail and F&B units on Theobalds Road. Railpen is targeting BREEAM “Outstanding” for the project by demonstrating a reduction of on-site energy use and water consumption. This is in addition to the embodied carbon savings that will be achieved through the refurbishment of an existing building. The consent is timely, given Holborn’s growing appeal as a location among occupiers and investors, driven in part by its equidistant position between Tottenham Court Road and Farringdon Elizabeth Line stations. Various developments are underway in the area, including the transformation of nearby Sicilian Avenue and the recent purchase by Whitbread of 35 Red Lion Square. Holborn has also experienced a surge in co-working providers opening in the area, with Runway East and Uncommon joining WeWork in creating flagship sites. Complementing the growing demand from occupiers and investors, Camden Council is proposing a series of major enhancements to Red Lion Square and the surrounding streets, improving the public realm and enhancing the square as a key green space in Holborn. Emily Atkinson, Asset Manager at Railpen, said: “We welcome the Council’s decision, which facilitates our plans to deliver a high-quality sustainable refurbishment of a significant office building that will help address the growing demand from occupies for Grade A space in Holborn. This is an exciting time for the area, and 26 Red Lion Square will make an important contribution to its ongoing transformation as a prime choice for office occupiers.” The refurbishment is the latest in a series of office initiatives by Railpen in central London. The company will shortly complete the refurbishment of 101 Bayham in Camden, and has several office projects proposed and underway in the City, including the redevelopment of 12 Smithfield, plans for which are due to be submitted later this year. These are in addition to its significant office-led mixed-use portfolio in Cambridge, where Railpen has a pipeline of over 1.5m sq ft of development on-site or in planning. Railpen’s advisory team comprises Savills and Farebrother’s (leasing), Stiff + Trevillion (architect), and Ridgelift (development management). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Millions of pounds in home insurance claims could be at risk each year due to faulty or missing smoke alarms, according to new research. A study by comparison site Go.Compare, drawing on data from the Home Office, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and StatsWales, revealed that in the year ending March 2024, there were an estimated 13,458 house fires attended by fire and rescue services where an alarm either failed to sound or was not installed. Using average claim payout figures, the research suggests that this could amount to around £16.7 million in potentially invalid insurance claims. The findings highlight how a lack of regular smoke alarm testing could not only put lives at risk but also leave households to cover the cost of fire damage themselves. Shockingly, 1% of UK residents – equivalent to more than half a million people – admitted to having no smoke detector in their home. Across Britain, 43% of dwelling fires occurred in properties where alarms either did not operate or were absent altogether. The consequences can be deadly: 52% of all fire-related fatalities in homes happened where a working smoke alarm was not present. Many people remain unaware of the insurance implications. The survey found that 62% of respondents did not realise that failing to check alarms regularly could make a claim void. In such cases, any damage caused by a fire would have to be paid for by the homeowner. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has urged residents to make smoke alarm testing part of their regular routine. “Setting a reminder and making it a household habit could help ensure alarms are checked regularly, especially for those with battery-powered devices,” the NFCC advised. “Home fire safety should be as routine as cleaning.” For those unsure how to test their alarm, the NFCC recommends following the manufacturer’s instructions or using their free Online Home Fire Safety Check, which provides guidance on alarm testing, placement, and replacement. Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Failing to install and maintain a working smoke alarm is a huge safety risk, but it can also have severe financial consequences. If your alarm wasn’t working when a fire occurred, your insurer is unlikely to pay out. Testing your alarm takes seconds but could save lives and money. Setting a weekly reminder is an easy way to avoid forgetting, and local fire services can often provide assistance if needed.” With such stark figures, the message is clear – regular smoke alarm checks are not just a legal and safety necessity, they could also be the key to protecting both lives and livelihoods. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Wingstop has unveiled its fifth Leeds restaurant, opening at The Springs retail and leisure destination. The 3,014 sq ft venue offers the brand’s full menu of wings, tenders, burgers, and sides, alongside a range of drinks. The new branch joins Wingstop’s growing Leeds portfolio, which already includes locations at Cardigan Fields Leisure Park, White Rose Shopping Centre, Boar Lane, and dedicated kitchen delivery sites. This latest opening forms part of Wingstop’s ambitious UK expansion plan, with 20 additional locations scheduled to launch in 2025. Chris Sherriff, CEO at Wingstop UK, said the brand’s ongoing growth in Leeds reflects exceptional demand from customers. “We’ve seen phenomenal demand for Wingstop UK in Leeds, which is why we’re thrilled to be opening our fifth site in the city. Expanding into such a vibrant destination for food and drink, like The Springs, is a natural next step and cements our status as the number one flavour destination in Leeds. We’re grateful for the continued love and support from our local community, as we bring our menu to an even broader audience.” The Springs, already home to a range of well-known dining and retail brands, has welcomed the addition as a boost to its offering. Gemma Chidgey, estates manager at The Springs, commented: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Wingstop to the scheme this week and very proud to be the latest opening in Leeds. The new restaurant will add to our already strong line-up of food and drink brands at The Springs, and we know it will prove popular with our customers and occupiers alike.” With its bold flavours, casual dining atmosphere, and ever-expanding footprint, Wingstop continues to strengthen its presence across the UK, with Leeds proving to be one of its most enthusiastic markets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
After the terrific success of the first phase of development at Stud Brook Business Park, Clowes Developments are now cracking on with their contractors Roe Developments with the next phase of smaller units ranging from circa 3,000 sq ft to 9,000 sq ft. Benefitting from terrific prominence and visibility off the new Castle Donington bypass and set next to a trading Starbucks and Sainsbury’s Convenience Store, the units should be ready for occupation early in 2026 and would suit occupiers looking for trade counter, warehouse or industrial space. One of the few small new build schemes that is progressing throughout the East Midlands at present, the second phase of Stud Brook follows on from the development of nine new warehouse/industrial units on the site, where over two-thirds of the site was let prior to practical completion. Interest in the smaller units is already strong and occupiers are encouraged to register their interest with the agents who would be delighted to show them around as small units of this quality rarely come to the market, particularly with such prominence and accessibility whilst sitting in a prime location equally distant between Nottingham, Derby and Leicester and within moments of the M1 motorway and A50. To see the progress on site, Clowes have installed live cameras which can be accessed via https://clowes-studbrook.co.uk/ providing moment by moment progress on the site, highlighting the quality of build and location. Agents for the scheme are Tim Gilbertson of FHP Property Consultants and Richard Sutton of NG Chartered Surveyors, and Tim Gilbertson commented: “It’s great to see smaller units being constructed in such a prime location in the East Midlands. With main road prominence and visibility, these would be ideal for trade counter use or industrial/warehouse purposes. I can’t remember the last time such a prime location was offered for smaller units so hopefully they will be snapped up quickly”. Richard Sutton of NG Chartered Surveyors added: “As Tim says, good quality space in such a prime position almost never comes to market, so it really is great to see our clients developing out here and helping smaller business owners take advantage of a fantastic location”. For full information on the scheme and availability, please do contact either FHP Property Consultants (0115 950 7577) or NG Chartered Surveyors (0115 958 8599). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cardiff’s City Hall, a Grade I listed Edwardian iconic landmark opened by Lord Bute in 1906, stands as a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur and historical significance. The first phase of the works focuses on replacing the outdated mechanical and electrical infrastructure. This includes the design, manufacture, supply, installation, and commissioning of a new permanent heating solution across the South, West, and East wings of City Hall. Key areas within the scope include the Council Chambers, the Upper Great Hall and the Lower Hall. In parallel with phase 1 upgrades, associated architectural and builders’ works are being undertaken to ensure seamless integration of modern systems within the fabric of this culturally significant building. Given City Hall’s listed status, all work is being carried out under strict heritage oversight, with a strong emphasis on carefully protecting historic internal features such as decorative ceilings, stained glass, sculptures, historic paintings and original finishes. The project team is working closely with conservation officers and heritage specialists to ensure that interventions are sympathetic, reversible where possible, and in keeping with the building’s original character and iconic landmark status. To inform and support the restoration effort, drone technology has been deployed to survey roof structures and external elevations, providing detailed visual assessments while minimising risk to delicate masonry and avoiding intrusive access methods. In addition, we worked closely with the client’s project management team, Gleeds, who utilised a photographic digital twin for a comprehensive internal survey of the building, capturing accurate spatial data and high-resolution imagery to support detailed analysis and planning. Mark Bowen, Managing Director of Andrew Scott Ltd, said “We’re proud to be working closely with Cardiff Council to deliver this important project at Cardiff’s iconic City Hall. Our team is dedicated to preserving the building’s historic character while carefully integrating the modern infrastructure it needs to serve future generations. It’s a privilege to contribute to a project of such cultural significance, and we’re making strong progress thanks to the collaborative efforts of everyone involved.” Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Investment and Development, Cllr Russell Goodway said: “City Hall is one of Cardiff’s most treasured buildings, and these essential upgrades will ensure it continues to serve the city for generations to come. We’re proud to be working with partners who understand the importance of preserving its heritage while introducing the modern infrastructure needed to deliver on our One Planet Cardiff climate commitments and future-proof the building.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A multinational manufacturer of cutting-edge aluminium fire safety systems for commercial buildings is confident its latest product will help it grow its UK presence following a return to its former Coventry base. Aluflam, founded in Denmark in 1943, manufactures and distributes fire rated aluminium systems which can be installed into newbuild & renovation type structures within commercial buildings, including high-rises, to prevent fires from spreading. The UK arm of the company has returned to the Business Innovation Centre in Binley – part of the University of Warwick Science Park – after a restructure meant it had to briefly vacate the site. Now, Aluflam UK is aiming to use its latest product, a 120-minute curtain wall system that prevents fire spread both inside and outside of buildings to help improve safety in new and existing towers all over the country in a post-Grenfell market. The substance in the product secretes a water like substance via a chemical reaction when it is exposed to high temperatures, and is injected at high pressure into a chamber within the back box of the façade system. Installations have already taken place in Islington, Camden and Birmingham. Martin Grove, Managing Director at Aluflam UK, is hopeful of working on many similar projects. He said: “Aluflam UK is in a fantastic position to help make the country’s high-rise towers and commercial buildings as safe as they can be following the much-needed changes to building regulations following the Grenfell disaster. “Our latest product is dual-directional, meaning it can resist fire regardless of the direction of fire attack, keeping occupants safe and adjacent buildings. This is crucial in meeting new testing standards for passive fire protection systems and building compartmentation within the UK. “This is absolutely vital in densely populated cities and towns where fires could spread between high-rises that are close together. “With the construction industry now needing to pay much greater attention to fire safety after Grenfell, we believe we can make a lasting difference to the safety of many of our countries’ high-rises and commercial sector buildings whether they are old or new developments.” Aluflam had previously ventured into the UK market after huge success in Europe, the US, and Australia under the leadership of founder Peter Birck, and had based itself at the Innovation Centre before a change in company structure meant it had to leave. When Aluflam was in a position to return to the UK market, Martin did not think twice about taking space at the Innovation Centre again. “I knew how good the Innovation Centre was after our previous time here, so when the restructure was finished, coming back was a no-brainer,” Martin added. “The welcoming environment, convenient location, and flexibility around expanding on-site means it will hopefully be our UK base for a long time to come. “With the huge backlog of work needed across the construction sector and the high quality of our products, we are confident that we can soon bring in more staff and potentially grow within the Innovation Centre over the coming years.” Emma Turner, Centre Manager at the Business Innovation Centre, added: “We are proud that Martin and Aluflam chose to return, and it is testament to the excellent credentials of the Innovation Centre and the hard work of all our staff that he chose to do so. “Many of our tenants really benefit from the flexibility offered within the leases that allow them to expand, and we are confident that we will help and support Aluflam’s growth as it continues to improve fire safety throughout buildings across the country.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Today’s offices and homes can be complicated. With plumbing, wiring, insulation, and other systems, an entire world exists beneath the surface of an apparently simple property. Many people are unaware how the buildings, they live or work in, function the way they do. They simply hope that they work the way they want them to. This level of complexity has expanded over recent decades, with new layers of technology and automation that can make home and work life more convenient and efficient. But this complexity comes with a heavy environmental price tag. According to the 2022 Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the building and construction sector accounts for 34% of global energy demand and 37% of energy-related emissions. The Green Building Council estimates that with approximately 70% of the UK’s non-residential building stock has been constructed before the year 2000. If energy and carbon targets are to be achieved, and the UK’s 2050 net zero targets realised, significant energy efficiency and embodied carbon reductions are needed. As a result, much of the sector will have to undergo some form of retrofit by 2050. The demand for sustainable space is surging, with occupiers driving towards net zero targets and investors responding to market expectations. There is increasing regulation to avoid the risk of stranded assets and acknowledging the need to act to secure a global sustainable future. This brings commercial retrofit into sharp focus, promoting the important conversation around our existing built assets and providing a level of clarity and consistency to the approaches required to decarbonise them. Let’s dive straight in. Increasing the rate of retrofitting buildings Industry professionals and stakeholders including architects, engineers, planners and facilities managers, as well as landlords and building owners who are involved in the scoping, planning, delivery, and management of commercial retrofits are looking for solutions to cut carbon emissions and make assets usable and sustainable. The World GBC identifies some of the solutions for achieving net zero in buildings. These include setting strong targets, access to sustainable finance, accurate data collection, deep retrofitting of existing buildings, and electrification. Current building technologies can be upgraded or enhanced with new technology making buildings more efficient. Something as simple as replacing old gas boilers with heat pumps, installing rooftop solar panels, or upgrading to energy-efficient lighting and building and energy management systems (BEMS) can help to reduce a building’s carbon footprint. To achieve net zero, renovation rates must increase to approximately 3% to retrofit 20% of existing assets by 2030. This means that from 2023 to 2050, tens of billions of tonnes of materials will be required for energy-efficiency retrofits. These materials include plastic, mineral wool, glass, aluminium, flat steel and concrete, for example. Connected lighting also has a role to play. Among all building systems, connected lighting presents a unique opportunity to act as a foundation for intelligent capabilities. Lighting is already present in every building area and can be upgraded with little disruption. When equipped with connected LED technology, lighting becomes far more than a utility—it becomes a strategic part of the infrastructure. So much more to do Demand for sustainable space is surging, with occupiers driving towards net zero targets and investors responding to market expectations and increasing regulation to avoid the risk of stranded assets and due to increasingly acknowledging the need to act to secure a global sustainable future. Looking inward, I am proud to share what works for us: Having a commitment to sustainability: For any organisation to play a role, they need to be sustainable in their operations too.At Signify we walk the talk. As a global leader in lighting, Signify has long made a commitment to net zero emissions, and has been carbon neutral in its operations since 2020. Now in 2024, we launched our Climate Transition Plan one year back as we understand that Climate transition plans deliver results, both environmentally and economically. Since launching our Climate Transition Plan in June 2024, we’ve reduced our emissions by 42% year-on-year. Today, over 90% of our revenue comes from energy-efficient LED innovations. This shows our commitment to being a more sustainable organisation. The plan sets goals for the coming years, and we are not stopping at just these great results. Forming the right partnerships: Collaboration across the sector is now key to drive towards this common purpose as partnerships first company, we collaborate with companies that work on the same goal as ours- encouraging the adoption of energy efficient solutions. We recently announced the collaboration with Pineapple Partnerships, the systems change focused consultancy, and Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation and launched Pineapple CoRE, a strategic collaboration designed to accelerate decarbonization across the commercial and industrial property sector. Initially focusing on the UK, the collaboration is scalable for global deployment. The unique initiative unites market leading consultancy by Schneider Electric that helps organisations map their critical infrastructure and unlock the opportunities available to them around efficiency, sustainability and modernisation, Signify’s connected lighting solutions, and Pineapple Partnerships’ systems-change consultancy, offering a turnkey pathway for property owners and operators to overcome common barriers to decarbonisation – such as access to finance, fragmented supply chains and skills shortages. Signify thrives on partnerships, and CoRE is a powerful example of how collaborations can unlock decarbonisation at scale. The role of connected lighting: Many European countries have responded to the energy crisis by subsidising consumer bills. This move is understandable, but it does not reduce dependence on fossil fuels or encourage the use of smart technologies. Those funds might be better spent on structural solutions like subsidising the switch to connected LED lighting, heat pumps, electric vehicles, and other energy-saving technologies. Switching to LED lighting is one of the quickest, most effective, and most often overlooked ways to make progress toward your sustainability goals. With connected lighting, the prospects are even brighter. Smart or connected lighting can play a significant role in retrofitting any space and making it more digital, even more sustainable, whilst providing a safer and
MPs across the UK are being urged to support the second Damp & Mould Action and Awareness Week as campaigners highlight the urgent need for coordinated action on a widespread housing crisis that costs the NHS over £1.4 billion every year. The week, taking place from 20–26 October, was first launched in 2024 to shine a spotlight on the devastating health and housing consequences of damp and mould – an issue affecting up to 6.5 million households in England alone. Last year’s inaugural campaign brought together housing providers, charities, health professionals and tenants, reaching over three million people through national press, radio and TV – and even received a note of commendation from King Charles III. This year’s campaign gains added urgency as Awaab’s Law comes into effect, requiring social landlords to fix reported health hazards like damp and mould within strict legal timeframes. The law, named after two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died from prolonged exposure to mould in his home, aims to ensure tenants can hold landlords accountable through the courts if their homes remain unsafe. Campaign organisers at home safety specialist Aico are now calling on MPs to show their support, raise awareness in their constituencies, and encourage local stakeholders to take part in this vital public health initiative. They have written directly to MPs across the UK, urging them to play an active role in addressing unsafe housing conditions in their local areas. Dr Sam Collier, Policy & Research Manager at Aico, said: “We launched this campaign in response to a glaring gap – there was no single, coordinated platform dedicated to addressing one of the most prevalent and dangerous issues in UK housing. We wanted to change that. “Damp and mould doesn’t just damage buildings – it damages lives. From asthma and respiratory issues to mental health problems, the effects are serious and far-reaching. That’s why this campaign is so important – and why we’re asking MPs from across all parties to stand with us and make it a priority. “MPs are uniquely placed to amplify this issue and influence real change. By supporting this campaign, they can help bring landlords, local authorities, health services and tenants together to tackle it head-on.” This year’s campaign will include a range of free webinars, thought leadership articles, downloadable resources and digital content designed to help educate and empower professionals and residents alike. Aico has also developed a comprehensive campaign toolkit filled with resources to help housing providers, local authorities, charities and community groups get involved and show their support. Damp and mould produce allergens, irritants, mould spores, and other toxins that are harmful to health. The NHS spends an estimated £1.4 billion a year on treating illnesses associated with living in cold or damp housing. When wider societal costs such as ongoing healthcare are taken into consideration, the figure leaps to £15.4 billion. “We want this to be a truly collaborative effort – one that grows stronger each year until no family has to live with the fear or reality of unsafe housing,” Dr Collier added. For more information about the campaign and how to get involved, visit www.aico.co.uk/damp-mould-action-and-awareness-week Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major fire has destroyed the historic Raven Hotel in Droitwich, leaving the Grade II-listed building severely damaged. The blaze broke out on 10 August 2025, prompting a large-scale response from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS). Eight fire engines, along with specialist vehicles and equipment, were deployed to tackle the incident. Crews used multiple jets and two aerial ladder platforms to bring the fire under control and prevent it spreading to neighbouring properties. HWFRS confirmed the building, which had been empty for over a decade, was fully alight on arrival, with flames engulfing all floors and the roof. Nearby residents were urged to keep windows and doors closed, while people were advised to avoid the area. Dramatic footage from the scene showed thick black smoke billowing across the town and flames shooting from the roof. An eyewitness described the scene as a shock for the community: “Everyone in this town knows the Raven Hotel. It’s been unused for years, but it’s still heartbreaking to see such an iconic building in flames.” Wychavon District Council leader Richard Morris said: “This is so sad. This is our town’s history, 1452.” Although no casualties were reported, fire investigation teams are now working with West Mercia Police to establish the cause. The fire service later confirmed that the blaze had completely destroyed the structure. The building, once a hotel and public house, had been undergoing repair works at the time of the fire. In 2022, planning permission was granted to convert the property into residential use. However, in 2024, the council warned the owners that urgent steps were required to safeguard the site, following concerns over vandalism and structural deterioration. Wychavon District Council released a statement the day after the fire, expressing its “upset and anger” at the loss. The council said that urgent works, due to be completed this week, had been underway in accordance with a court order secured earlier in the year. “We understand completely the strength of feeling and affection for this historic building and the significance it has for the town,” the statement read. “We will continue to work with the fire service, and our building control officers are assessing the structure to determine the next steps.” The council also expressed gratitude to emergency services for their swift and extensive efforts in tackling the fire. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
