St John’s College has appointed VolkerFitzpatrick for the next phase of expansion at St John’s Innovation Park, Cambridge. The 85,000 sq ft Dirac Building will provide new office space alongside a dedicated Transport Hub. Barbour ABI values the project at around £50m, with Bowmer & Kirkland, Vinci and McLaughlin &
The London Borough of Lambeth has approved plans for a mid-rise residential development in Brixton, with Higgins Partnerships securing consent for a series of blocks delivering 378 apartments on Somerleyton Road. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with full completion scheduled for 2030. The project is a joint
Located right in the centre of Birmingham’s prime business district, 81 Colmore Row, a Grade II listed building, has been fitted out by Thirdway on behalf of client Kinrise. Taking its design cues from the rich history and heritage features of the building, this 27,657 sq ft mixed CAT A
The Gym Group has issued an updated requirements list as it looks to speed up openings across the UK. The low-cost operator, now at 250 locations, is targeting units of 5,000–20,000 sq ft in highly visible spots and will consider both leasehold and freehold opportunities. Suitable sites include retail parks,
Despite the UK construction industry employing over 2.2 million people, only 15% are women, and they make up only 2% of manual skilled roles, such as electricians and plumbers. And the stakes are high, with the UK government committing over £700 billion in infrastructure investment over the next decade, targets
Leep Utilities has appointed Ieman Barmaki as Director of Heat, to establish and drive forward the company’s heat networks division. Ieman brings over 20 years’ experience in delivering sustainable heat solutions, energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects across both public and private sectors. Ieman’s expertise is crucial at a time of
SLR CONSULTING has strengthened its integrated approach to placemaking with the appointment of experienced masterplanner Louise Fountainas associate director for urban design. With more than 20 years of experience in masterplanning, urban design and architecture across both the public and private sectors, Louise has held senior roles at AECOM, Planit,
St John’s College has appointed VolkerFitzpatrick for the next phase of expansion at St John’s Innovation Park, Cambridge. The 85,000 sq ft Dirac Building will provide new office space alongside a dedicated Transport Hub. Barbour ABI values the project at around £50m, with Bowmer & Kirkland, Vinci and McLaughlin & Harvey understood to have also bid. Work starts on site in November, with completion scheduled for Q2 2027. “This development exemplifies our commitment to building sustainable, high-quality spaces that meet the needs of forward-looking businesses,” said Stuart Deverill, managing director of VolkerFitzpatrick’s Building division. “With our strong track record and experienced team, we look forward to bringing this important next chapter of St John’s Innovation Park to life.” The professional team includes Gardiner & Theobald (project manager), Sheppard Robson (architect), Ramboll (structural, civil and highways), Hoare Lea (building services), Stace (cost manager), Savills (town planning and commercial advisory) and OFR (fire engineering). Owned by St John’s College, the park hosts science, technology and knowledge-intensive organisations including PwC, Darktrace, Cambridge GaN Devices and Cambrionix. The Dirac Building continues a sustained investment programme supporting the North Cambridge R&D cluster. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The London Borough of Lambeth has approved plans for a mid-rise residential development in Brixton, with Higgins Partnerships securing consent for a series of blocks delivering 378 apartments on Somerleyton Road. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with full completion scheduled for 2030. The project is a joint venture between Higgins Partnerships and Lambeth Council. Of the 378 flats, 187 will be affordable, including 63 low-cost extra care homes. The scheme also includes a community gym, new community and commercial spaces, and significant public realm improvements along Somerleyton Road. Higgins Group chief executive Declan Higgins said: “This application is about more than delivering much-needed affordable homes. It’s about creating a sustainable, inclusive and vibrant neighbourhood that reflects the true spirit of Brixton.” Kathryn Eames, director of housing delivery and strategy at Lambeth Council, added: “With more than half of these new homes approved as affordable, this scheme is a powerful demonstration of Lambeth’s commitment to tackling the housing crisis. Less than a year since the launch of our refreshed New Homes Programme, we are proud that our first major partnership project with Higgins has already secured approval. By next year, construction will begin in Brixton, bringing much-needed homes and new community amenities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Located right in the centre of Birmingham’s prime business district, 81 Colmore Row, a Grade II listed building, has been fitted out by Thirdway on behalf of client Kinrise. Taking its design cues from the rich history and heritage features of the building, this 27,657 sq ft mixed CAT A & CAT A+ space offers unique, stand-out office spaces in the UK’s second city. Heritage as a starting point 81 Colmore Row (formerly The Chatwin Building) was designed by Julius Alfred Chatwin and completed in 1862 – it was originally designed as a library, but instead became the Joint Stock Bank, and then Lloyds Bank. As such the building boasts many traditional features such as the Corinthian columns, and an arcade of arched windows on the façade. Taking these heritage features as a reference point, Thirdway aimed to create a seamless cohesion between the exterior of the building, and the newly fitted out interiors. Rich textures and muted tones The use of rich textures and muted tones, and understated lines allowed the heritage features to take centre stage. This is seen in the reception area, where dark natural wood frames the reception desk, and is crafted in a rounded shape, mimicking the shape of the arched windows of the building. This shape is continued subtly throughout the reception, as seen in the rounded furniture and even the light fixture. Focus on contemporary While the design in part paid homage to the heritage features, it also had to deliver a contemporary feel as Kinrise’s brief was to create high-end, modern workspaces that would attract and impress the right tenants. To achieve this, contemporary styling was used through with the placement of bespoke modern art prints, abstract sculptures, and brightly coloured furnishings that brought freshness and modern feel to contrast with the traditional architectural features. An example of this is on the first floor CAT A+ space, where the welcome area features statement seating, adding a pop of colour to the neutral, timeless space. Standing out from the crowd Thirdway’s challenge was to create spaces that really stood out from other premium workplaces in the commercial district. The fourth floor exemplified this ambition, with a full-service space designed with earthy tones and clean, modern lines to offer complete versatility; whether it was used for daytime meetings and client hosting, or as an adaptable canvas for evening events. Enhancing this vision further, is ‘The Library’ on the third floor, which offers a contemporary communal workspace inspired by the building’s former life as a public library. Thoughtfully designed for informal meetings or as an inspiring alternative to open-plan seating, it features a striking gallery wall of modern art, brought to life with rich reds and browns that unify the space and encourage creativity. Flexibility for landlord and tenant To give ultimate flexibility for Kinrise and its tenants, Thirdway devised an adaptable floorplate that offered a choice of CAT A and CAT A+ spaces within the building. Integrated in the interior fit out were larger fully-fitted spaces that allowed businesses to move in straight away, as well as CAT A floors that were ready for customisation, so that tenants could personalise their own space. Thirdway also designed the second and third floors as CAT A+ spaces with smaller floorplates. These were designed to accommodate a variety of business needs, making them particularly suitable for smaller organisations or creative studios. Each of these compact yet highly functional layouts included open-plan desk areas, phone booths, a tea point, a communal workspace, and a four-person meeting room, as well as a large boardroom. Design-wise they focused on enhancing the heritage features, while opting for natural materials and a gentle colour scheme. This blend of design and amenities ensured a versatile workspace environment which is adaptable and appealing to businesses of all sizes. “Having the opportunity to work on an important heritage building in the heart of Birmingham was a great privilege for the whole Thirdway project team. Delivering on Kinrise’s brief to create high-end, sought after contemporary, flexible CAT A & CAT A+ workspaces without detracting from the heritage features of the building was a challenge that we relished. We believe we have created something unique that will enhance the business district of Birmingham, bringing in new, dynamic businesses and occupiers,” said Abi Munslow. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Gym Group has issued an updated requirements list as it looks to speed up openings across the UK. The low-cost operator, now at 250 locations, is targeting units of 5,000–20,000 sq ft in highly visible spots and will consider both leasehold and freehold opportunities. Suitable sites include retail parks, mixed-use schemes, car showrooms and food stores. The company is prioritising catchments of at least 20,000 people within a five-minute drive time, with easy access to parking or strong links to nearby transport hubs. The push is part of a plan to add 50 gyms over the next three years. A strong pipeline is already in place, with 14–16 new locations due to open in 2025. Savills has been retained to identify opportunities and progress acquisitions. Landlords and agents with qualifying space are encouraged to get in touch, as The Gym Group looks to deploy its standardised, value-led format at pace in well-connected, high-visibility settings. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Despite the UK construction industry employing over 2.2 million people, only 15% are women, and they make up only 2% of manual skilled roles, such as electricians and plumbers. And the stakes are high, with the UK government committing over £700 billion in infrastructure investment over the next decade, targets for 1.5 million new homes by 2029, and a critical labour shortage across the country. To highlight this issue, Excavator Parts Direct (EPD), a leading UK supplier of excavator parts, has revealed key construction roles with significant gender disparities, what the opportunities are and what can be done. According to recent data, here are six positions with key opportunities to bridge the workforce gap: Position No. Of Female Employees Annual Recruitment Requirement (People/Year) Average Annual Salary Carpenter / Joiner 0.5% 5280 £35,000 Electrician 0.7% 3500 £34,000 Plumber 1.8% 1250 £32,000 Roofer 1.9% 690 £30,000 Painter and Decorator 7.7% 690 £30,000 Plant Operator 10.3% 1130 £28,000 Over a third of new entrants (37%) to the construction sector are female, however retention and progression is limited, with only 16% of senior roles held by women. The gender pay gap is also stark as women earn up to 33% less than men in equivalent roles, making it the biggest gap of any UK industry. This imbalance is particularly concerning given the UK’s severe labour shortage. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) estimates the UK will need over 250,000 additional workers by 2028 to meet demand from infrastructure and housing projects. With 35% of the workforce over 50, retirement rates are outpacing recruitment. And despite growing conversations around workplace diversity, the latest ONS data shows that the number of women in skilled construction trades has remained stagnant for two decades, at 298,000. Jane McGuire Head of Business Services & HR from EPD, commented: “The construction industry is a great sector to work in; however female representation is shockingly low. Gender representation isn’t just a social issue – it’s a strategic one. There is a real shortage in labour, as well as a huge gap in terms of gender in construction roles, in particular skilled manual roles. This is a missed opportunity for everyone.” “The data shows us that women are significantly underrepresented in skilled trades and site-based roles, yet they make up over a third of new entrants to the industry. That gap between entry and progression is where we need to focus. At EPD, we believe the path forward includes inclusive apprenticeships, better PPE and site conditions, flexible working policies, and visible role models. When women can see themselves in these roles, and are supported to thrive, the entire industry benefits. It’s not just about fairness; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient workforce that is fit for what the country needs.” For more information about Excavator Parts Direct, visit https://excavatorpartsdirect.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leep Utilities has appointed Ieman Barmaki as Director of Heat, to establish and drive forward the company’s heat networks division. Ieman brings over 20 years’ experience in delivering sustainable heat solutions, energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects across both public and private sectors. Ieman’s expertise is crucial at a time of rapid change for the UK’s heating sector. Heat networks have undergone a step change in functionality and efficiency and, with the UK on a firm path to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, they offer an unrivalled opportunity to reduce the carbon associated with heating homes and businesses, as well as providing cost-effective energy solutions. It’s estimated that the number of heat networks in operation will need to increase from 3% to around 18%. Ieman’s appointment strengthens Leep’s heat network adoption programme, ensuring heat networks are a sound investment and supporting Leep to be a true multi-utility provider: offering water, electricity, waste, and heat services to developers and asset owners. Louise Manfredi, CEO of Leep Utilities said, “We are delighted to welcome Ieman to the team at such a pivotal time for the UK’s heating sector. “His proven track record in developing heat networks and navigating complex regulatory environments makes him the ideal person to establish and grow our heat division. With changes on the horizon like the Future Homes Standard and gas boilers being phased out of new developments, Ieman’s expertise will be instrumental in helping our clients transition to sustainable heating solutions while maintaining our commitment to exceptional customer service.” Ieman previously lead on the development of multiple heat network both in the private and public sector, He has held numerous senior roles in renewable and heat network organisation and formerly Head of Asset Management and Sustainability at London Brough of Enfield managing complex asset portfolio, decarbonisation and development of renewable heat networks. Ieman Barmaki said about his role, “I’m joining Leep at a time when the UK’s heating landscape is undergoing such fundamental change. It’s exciting to have the opportunity to acquire and adopt innovative and sustainable heat solutions that align with the UK’s decarbonisation targets but that also work for our customers – helping developers and asset owners to maximise their business outcomes while also supporting environmental objectives.” To learn more about Leep Utilities and its services, please visit www.leeputilities.co.uk/heat-networks/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SLR CONSULTING has strengthened its integrated approach to placemaking with the appointment of experienced masterplanner Louise Fountainas associate director for urban design. With more than 20 years of experience in masterplanning, urban design and architecture across both the public and private sectors, Louise has held senior roles at AECOM, Planit, Taylor Young (now Arcadis), and PRP Architects and led on major regeneration projects. Her portfolio includes 1,500 homes within the Greater Manchester Places for Everyone (PfE) plan, Jackson’s Brickworks in Manchester, 2,500 homes at New Eastern Villages near Swindon, and the historic Woolwich Barracks site in Greenwich. Based in Manchester, Louise will enhance SLR’s Place team in the North West, which includes 15 masterplanning and landscape specialists. The team is involved in some of the region’s most significant projects. These include the South Warrington Eastern Urban Extension for Homes England, Bold Garden Village in St Helens, Droylsden Town Centre Masterplan, Leigh Civic Square, First Street and Bootle Strand. Louise said: “I admire the creativity and ambition of the place team at SLR, the combination of visionary design with technical excellence uniquely positions the team to deliver sustainable, people-focused places. By bringing my own experience together with the established team, we’ll strive for outstanding placemaking that positively impacts both communities and the environment.” She also brings leadership experience in town and city centre regeneration, having worked on frameworks and strategies such as the Warrington Growth Ambition, Sheffield City Centre Priority Frameworks, and Northwich Development Framework, alongside regeneration schemes in Radcliffe and Ashton, and residential capacity studies in Sheffield and Leicester. She has also delivered design codes in Prestwich and Keighley. Alongside her practice work, Louise serves as Supporting Chair of the RIBA Places Matter design review panel, providing independent design advice across the North West. She intends to use this experience to strengthen SLR’s internal design review process and its advocacy for design quality. Pol MacDonald, director of the place team at SLR Consulting, said: “Louise’s extensive masterplanning expertise and commitment to raising design quality will play a key leadership and mentoring role for the Manchester studio and beyond, as we continue to expand our place team across specialist disciplines and levels of experience. “Since fully merging OPEN with SLR in 2022, our place team across the UK has gone from strength to strength, benefiting from the support of SLR’s wider disciplines such as ecology, transport, heritage and infrastructure – combining creativity with technical rigour to ensure that placemaking projects are deliverable and sustainable.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals