The City of London Corporation has released a new CGI revealing how the Square Mile’s skyline is expected to look in around six years’ time, once the latest wave of towers under construction or with planning consent are complete. The computer-generated images illustrate the evolving cluster of tall buildings in
The project represents Costco’s first warehouse in Gloucestershire and further strengthens Glencar’s portfolio across large-scale developments alongside its established industrial and logistics workload. Following three months on site, the steel frame is now complete, earthworks are nearing completion and cladding and roofing works are progressing, with the next key milestone
Burger King has unveiled its latest acquisition requirements as it accelerates plans to grow its UK estate, targeting 30 new restaurant openings annually. The fast-food operator, which currently trades from around 600 locations nationwide, is seeking units between 1,500 sq ft and 3,000 sq ft. Both freehold and leasehold opportunities
Bradford’s long-anticipated City Village regeneration scheme has secured planning approval, unlocking the delivery of up to 1,000 new homes in the city’s former commercial core. The major transformation will see underperforming retail assets, including the Kirkgate Shopping Centre and Oastler Shopping Centre, replaced with new housing, public spaces and mixed-use
Kier has been appointed to deliver the long-awaited £120m replacement for the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh, bringing renewed momentum to a project that has faced years of delay and uncertainty. The contractor will act as principal supply chain partner for NHS Lothian on the new specialist facility, which
AWW Architects, one of the UK’s leading multi-disciplinary architectural practices, has adopted NavLive’s LiDAR BIM scanning technology to improve survey accuracy, reduce project risk, and meet the growing demands of the Building Safety Act across a range of high-risk and complex developments. With a team of 100 architectural professionals delivering
MSA Safety, Inc., a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of PPE and safety systems, welcomes this week’s harmonisation of EN 17235, a European test standard for permanently installed anchor devices used in horizontal construction applications. EN 17235 sets out a comprehensive testing methodology for anchor devices that are
Catella APAM has strengthened its property and facilities Management capability with the appointment of Richard Stackhouse as Facilities Management Lead, further reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering high-quality operational performance across its growing portfolio. Richard brings more than 25 years’ experience in property and facilities management, having previously led facilities
Hewer Facilities Management, a leader in sustainable heating solutions, has appointed Adam Daly as Business Development Manager to support the rollout of its pioneering Heat Saviour™ technology nationwide. Having previously held senior roles at Navigator, Purmo, Westco and Fernox, Adam joins Hewer with over 20 years’ experience in the plumbing,
Airey Miller Group (Airey Miller), a leading nationwide multi-discipline property and construction consultancy group, has invested in a new office in Cambridge, strengthening its presence across the East of England and reinforcing its commitment to supporting the delivery of much-needed affordable housing in the region. The opening of a new
The City of London Corporation has released a new CGI revealing how the Square Mile’s skyline is expected to look in around six years’ time, once the latest wave of towers under construction or with planning consent are complete. The computer-generated images illustrate the evolving cluster of tall buildings in the City’s financial district, reflecting what will be delivered following a record year for planning approvals in 2025. According to the Corporation, 2026 has already marked the busiest start to a year in seven years in terms of both planning submissions and decisions, as demand for high-quality, sustainable Grade A office space continues to grow. More than half a million square metres of office space was granted planning permission in 2025 alone – the equivalent of more than ten Gherkin-sized buildings – with roughly half of that total already under construction. The result is a development pipeline that will keep the Square Mile firmly in growth mode for the remainder of the decade. Major schemes contributing to the future skyline include 1 Undershaft, which is already progressing on site, alongside 85 Gracechurch Street and 60 Gracechurch Street, both due to start shortly. Together, these projects will add more than 200,000 square metres of commercial space. Chris Hayward, Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, said strong demand for amenity-rich, premium office space was reinforcing the City’s global appeal. He noted that vacancy rates in the City Core continue to fall, prime supply remains tight and leasing activity has reached its strongest annual performance since 2019. He added that the City continues to demonstrate its ability to deliver complex, large-scale developments while responding to evolving patterns of work. Tom Sleigh, Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee, described commercial development in the Square Mile as “all systems go”, pointing to a particularly active start to the year and sustained investor confidence in the City’s long-term prospects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The project represents Costco’s first warehouse in Gloucestershire and further strengthens Glencar’s portfolio across large-scale developments alongside its established industrial and logistics workload. Following three months on site, the steel frame is now complete, earthworks are nearing completion and cladding and roofing works are progressing, with the next key milestone being achievement of a watertight building envelope. Once complete, the development will include a nine-pump petrol station with tyre fitting bay, 612 customer parking spaces and a new vehicle access off Chancel Close. The 13,000 sq m warehouse is being delivered under a design and build contract and comprises a wide-span steel portal frame structure, feature entrance canopy, vertical composite cladding systems and a roof-mounted solar PV array. The external works package includes car parking, HGV hardstanding, drainage infrastructure, service installations and associated civils across the wider 44,000 sq m development site, progressing in parallel with the main build. Roy Jones, Managing Director at Glencar, said: “This is a substantial scheme that brings together structural steel, civils, infrastructure and sustainability within a live delivery programme. We are working closely with Costco and the wider project team to maintain programme certainty as construction progresses toward completion in 2026.” Paul Landen, Construction Director Europe, Costco commented: “Glencar is making good progress on site as works continue to advance on our Gloucester warehouse. This development represents an important addition to our UK estate, and we look forward to delivering a high-quality facility for our members in 2026.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Burger King has unveiled its latest acquisition requirements as it accelerates plans to grow its UK estate, targeting 30 new restaurant openings annually. The fast-food operator, which currently trades from around 600 locations nationwide, is seeking units between 1,500 sq ft and 3,000 sq ft. Both freehold and leasehold opportunities are under consideration, reflecting a flexible approach to securing the right sites. The brand is actively targeting space within retail and leisure parks, major shopping centres and prominent high street locations. The expansion drive signals continued confidence in bricks-and-mortar dining, particularly in high-footfall and well-connected destinations. BKUK, Burger King’s largest UK franchisee, is leading the growth strategy across Great Britain. To support the rollout, the operator has appointed a team of property agents to identify suitable opportunities across key regions. Morgan Williams has been instructed to source sites nationally, while Savills and EYCO will focus on opportunities in Scotland. In the South of England, LM has been retained, with Space Property Consultants and Barker Proudlove appointed to secure units in the East Midlands and the North East respectively. The renewed push for expansion highlights the brand’s ambition to strengthen its presence across a diverse mix of urban and out-of-town locations, capitalising on consumer demand for convenience-led dining and drive-to destinations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bradford’s long-anticipated City Village regeneration scheme has secured planning approval, unlocking the delivery of up to 1,000 new homes in the city’s former commercial core. The major transformation will see underperforming retail assets, including the Kirkgate Shopping Centre and Oastler Shopping Centre, replaced with new housing, public spaces and mixed-use development. The project is being led by Bradford Council in partnership with regeneration specialist ECF, a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General and Muse. The scheme focuses on the ‘Top of Town’ area, encompassing Chain Street and the sites of the former Oastler and Kirkgate shopping centres. Phase one has now received full approval and will deliver 97 townhouses across Chain Street and the northern section of the Oastler site. The homes will be arranged around new courtyards, landscaped green spaces and a central community green, forming the first step in reshaping the area into a residential neighbourhood. Bradford-based housing association Incommunities has been identified as the preferred funding partner for the first phase, delivering homes for both sale and rent, subject to final legal agreements. Outline planning consent has also been granted for the wider masterplan. This includes more than 700 apartments across the southern Oastler site and Kirkgate, alongside new retail, leisure and business space intended to reintroduce activity and employment into the heart of the city. Demolition of the former Oastler Shopping Centre, which closed last summer, is due to begin shortly and is expected to take around seven months. The 1970s-built Kirkgate Shopping Centre will close later this year, with demolition anticipated towards the end of 2026. Construction of the first phase is scheduled to start this summer, with works expected to last approximately 24 months, marking a significant milestone in Bradford’s city centre renewal. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kier has been appointed to deliver the long-awaited £120m replacement for the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion in Edinburgh, bringing renewed momentum to a project that has faced years of delay and uncertainty. The contractor will act as principal supply chain partner for NHS Lothian on the new specialist facility, which will be built at the Edinburgh BioQuarter in Little France. The development will replace the existing Eye Pavilion, first deemed “not fit for purpose” in 2014. Since that assessment, the project has encountered a series of setbacks, including funding withdrawals, budget freezes and changing government priorities. These challenges pushed back the anticipated completion date, with the new hospital now expected to open in late 2027 or later. An earlier proposal in 2018 saw Graham lined up under a £45m contract, but the scheme stalled as costs rose and funding arrangements shifted. The latest appointment marks a significant step in finally progressing the long-planned facility. The new hospital will sit alongside the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, forming part of the city’s expanding healthcare and research campus at BioQuarter. The site is intended to strengthen Edinburgh’s position as a leading centre for medical treatment, research and innovation. Kier has highlighted its experience in delivering specialist eye facilities, including the NHS Golden Jubilee Eye Hospital and Sunderland Eye Infirmary, as key to supporting the project’s delivery. Sean Fenner, managing director for Kier Construction North & Scotland, said the company was proud to be appointed as principal supply chain partner and to support NHS Lothian in delivering early construction works for the new Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
AWW Architects, one of the UK’s leading multi-disciplinary architectural practices, has adopted NavLive’s LiDAR BIM scanning technology to improve survey accuracy, reduce project risk, and meet the growing demands of the Building Safety Act across a range of high-risk and complex developments. With a team of 100 architectural professionals delivering projects across the nuclear, defence, commercial and public sectors, AWW frequently acts as lead consultant under traditional contract arrangements, often assuming full liability under Professional Indemnity insurance. As part of this expanding remit, the practice is increasingly responsible for Clerk of Works and Principal Designer duties, where precise, coordinated information is essential to maintaining a compliant “golden thread” of building data. Maintaining up-to-date survey information, particularly on existing or part-demolished structures, had become time-intensive and costly. To address this, AWW undertook a comprehensive market review to find an in-house solution capable of capturing reliable, high-accuracy site data while accelerating its Revit modelling workflows. Following extensive evaluation, AWW selected the NavLive LiDAR BIM Scanner as its preferred solution, as the system enables AWW’s designers to generate highly detailed point cloud data within minutes. Through NavLive’s software platform, produce Revit-ready outline models that correct, enhance, and validate existing survey and planning information. The technology has now been deployed across five separate buildings by staff at all levels, delivering consistent results and measurable gains in accuracy, speed, and assurance. Nicholas Mulholland, Managing Director at AWW Architects, added: “The NavLive scanner has significantly accelerated our design workflow and achieved measurable cost savings while improving the accuracy and assurance of our model data. The system provides exceptionally detailed point cloud data within minutes and, through the NavLive software, generates Revit-ready outline models that correct and enhance existing survey and planning information.” Chris Davison, CEO of NavLive, said: “Architectural practices like AWW are facing increasing pressure to deliver precise, assured information at every stage of a project. NavLive was designed to give teams immediate access to high-quality building data, reducing uncertainty and supporting the level of rigour demanded by modern regulation. AWW’s adoption of our technology shows how digital tools can remove delays, improve coordination, and strengthen compliance across some of the UK’s most complex projects.” With a long track record of early BIM adoption and a portfolio spanning high-risk and heavily regulated environments, AWW’s integration of NavLive reinforces its commitment to delivering accurate, coordinated design information from the earliest project stages. The partnership is expected to support future projects as industry requirements around digital record-keeping and safety assurance continue to intensify. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
MSA Safety, Inc., a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of PPE and safety systems, welcomes this week’s harmonisation of EN 17235, a European test standard for permanently installed anchor devices used in horizontal construction applications. EN 17235 sets out a comprehensive testing methodology for anchor devices that are permanently fixed to a structure, assessing not only the device itself, but also its fixings and the base material to which it is attached. The standard was harmonised on 9 February, 2026, with an 18-month transition period. After the transition period, manufacturers across the UK and Europe will be required to test products to EN 17235 in order to produce a Declaration of Performance and apply CE marking. The harmonisation of EN 17235 is expected to significantly improve safety levels industry wide by requiring consistent, robust testing across the built environment, and by preventing the use of inadequately tested products on construction projects. MSA Safety has long been an advocate for rigorous, up-to-date testing of all safety devices and welcomes the move to make compliance mandatory. Tim Bissett, technical expert at MSA Safety, is part of the working group that developed this standard. He comments: “This harmonisation of EN 17235 is a major step forward for safety in the construction sector. By making robust testing a legal requirement, the standard helps to level the playing field and helps make sure that anchor devices are properly assessed as complete systems, not just as individual components.” MSA’s development approach already reflects many of the principles now set out in EN 17235. For instance, its Constant Force Post range has long been tested as a complete system, looking not just at the anchor device itself, but also its fixings and the substrate it’s installed into. That mirrors the standard’s focus on assessing products in realistic installation conditions, helping give a clearer picture of how they’ll perform in practice. The company is now progressing a programme to test both new and existing products directly to EN 17235, with its next-generation Constant Force Post among the first scheduled. MSA has historically carried out equivalent testing through the German DIBt approval process, whose methodology aligns closely with EN 17235 requirements, meaning many of its established testing practices are already consistent with the new framework. “Testing to the latest standards has always been fundamental to how MSA designs and validates its safety solutions,” Bissett added. “EN 17235 formalises best practice and provides greater confidence for specifiers, installers and end users alike. Our mission is to send workers home safely to their families at the end of each day, and this helps us to do it.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Catella APAM has strengthened its property and facilities Management capability with the appointment of Richard Stackhouse as Facilities Management Lead, further reinforcing the firm’s commitment to delivering high-quality operational performance across its growing portfolio. Richard brings more than 25 years’ experience in property and facilities management, having previously led facilities management teams within major managing agents including GVA and Lambert Smith Hampton. Most recently, he spent over seven years at commercial property developer and investment manager CEG, where he oversaw facilities management delivery and service charge management across its UK portfolio. Throughout his career, Richard has worked across a wide range of asset types, including new-build office developments, mixed-use and regeneration schemes, trophy assets and major refurbishment projects. His experience spans the full lifecycle of assets, from pre-construction and mobilisation through to operational delivery and ongoing asset optimisation. Richard’s key areas of expertise include leading national facilities management teams, improving operational systems and processes, strengthening supplier performance, budget and service charge management, and ensuring robust health and safety compliance. In his new role, Richard will lead Catella APAM’s national facilities management team, focusing on enhancing compliance and service delivery, driving improvements across the supply chain, reviewing operational systems and processes, and supporting the training and development of on-site teams. Kate Hackett, Head of Property Management (North) at Catella APAM, commented:“Richard’s appointment is an important step in the continued growth of our property and facilities management offer. His experience in leading national teams and delivering operational improvements across complex assets will add real value to both our clients and our site teams. We’re delighted to welcome him to the business.” Richard Stackhouse said:“What attracted me to Catella APAM is the collaborative approach between asset management, property management and facilities management teams, as well as the strength and diversity of the portfolio. I’m looking forward to bringing my experience to support the team and continuing to raise service standards for our clients and occupiers.” The appointment further strengthens Catella APAM’s integrated asset, property and facilities management platform, where strong operational delivery directly supports asset performance and income growth across client portfolios. Victoria Morgan, Head of Asset Management at Catella APAM, said:“Property and facilities management are critical to delivering our asset management strategies and driving value for clients. A genuinely integrated approach delivers stronger NOI outcomes than segregated services, as our teams work together to scrutinise performance data, control costs and strengthen tenant engagement. Richard’s experience will further enhance how we unlock opportunities and deliver measurable performance improvements across our portfolio.” Richard’s appointment reflects Catella APAM’s continued investment in strengthening its integrated management platform to deliver enhanced performance and long-term value across client portfolios. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hewer Facilities Management, a leader in sustainable heating solutions, has appointed Adam Daly as Business Development Manager to support the rollout of its pioneering Heat Saviour™ technology nationwide. Having previously held senior roles at Navigator, Purmo, Westco and Fernox, Adam joins Hewer with over 20 years’ experience in the plumbing, heating and building services sectors. His expertise lies in developing routes to market for new products, driving penetration and growth through targeted training and education initiatives, and increasing sales across installer networks, merchants and national accounts, including specifiers and housing providers. At Hewer, Adam will focus on supporting the rollout of Heat Saviour™, a first-of-its-kind retrofit product that simplifies heat pump installations, reduces installation time and cost, and minimises disruption to homeowners and tenants. Officially launched in 2025, Heat Saviour™ is already installed in over 2,000 properties across the UK. Among these are 1,500 social housing homes in the South West, including those managed by providers such as Two Rivers Housing, Bromford, Green Square Accord, Rooftop Housing Group, Community Housing and Cottsway Housing Association. Compatible with all major heat pump brands, Heat Saviour™ has recently been endorsed by Midea, one of the world’s leading heat pump manufacturers which operates in 200 countries worldwide, highlighting Hewer’s position at the forefront of practical, scalable low-carbon heating solutions. Adam Daly, Business Development Manager, says: “I’m thrilled to be joining Hewer at such an exciting time for both the business and the wider sector, as it continues its transition to greener technologies. “The UK is leading the way in innovation in this space. Heat Saviour is a first-to-market solution that solves real-world challenges around heat pump adoption – tackling key barriers such as cost, disruption and installation complexity – for installers, tenants and homeowners. “My role will focus on helping installers, housing providers and local authorities understand the product and deploy it effectively at scale. Having the endorsement of Midea reinforces the value and impact of what we’re delivering.” Stuart Hesk, Director at Hewer, adds: “We’re delighted to welcome Adam to the Hewer team. His experience in product launch, market education and commercial growth is exactly what we need to support Heat Saviour’s rollout. “Adam’s appointment strengthens our business development capabilities as we help social housing providers, local authorities and homeowners adopt low-carbon heating solutions. With recognition from a global leader like Midea, it’s clear that our technology is not only innovative but also trusted by industry experts.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Airey Miller Group (Airey Miller), a leading nationwide multi-discipline property and construction consultancy group, has invested in a new office in Cambridge, strengthening its presence across the East of England and reinforcing its commitment to supporting the delivery of much-needed affordable housing in the region. The opening of a new office at Milton Hall follows a sustained period of project success in and around Cambridge, driven by growing demand for Airey Miller’s multidisciplinary expertise across surveying, architecture, safety and compliance and digital services. Establishing a local base will enable the business to work more closely with clients and project partners, providing responsive, on-the-ground support and deeper local insight. The expansion is expected to create up to 10 new jobs in the area, offering long-term career opportunities, while contributing to local economic growth. Airey Miller’s total headcount now stands at 119 across additional office locations in London, Sevenoaks and Bristol. The Cambridge office will support existing teams covering Essex, the Northern Home Counties and Airey Miller’s growing presence in the Midlands and the North of England. From the new location, teams will serve projects across Cambridgeshire, Anglia and the wider East of England, where the firm is working on a growing number of new-build residential development schemes. The company has secured a significant pipeline of commissions over the next two to three years, working with housebuilders, Registered Providers, Build to Rent operators and investment partners to deliver affordable housing and residential-led mixed-use developments. Mark Humphreys, CEO of Airey Miller Group, said: “The opening our Cambridge office marks an important step in Airey Miller Group’s continued growth and regional investment. It also reflects the strength of commissions we have already secured in the area, demonstrating the confidence clients place in our multi-disciplinary expertise. Establishing a local presence allows us to better support these schemes, deepen relationships and continue to deliver high-quality output across residential and mixed-use developments. Cambridge and the surrounding area is a key market for us and this office positions us well for sustainable, long-term growth.” In June 2025, Airey Miller became part of leading UK investor Celnor Group’s Risk Management division. The Group of ambitious, entrepreneur-led businesses is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing organisations in the Testing, Inspection, Certification and Compliance (TICC) sector. Simon Parrington, Founder and CEO of Celnor Group, said: “The opening of Airey Miller’s Cambridge office is a clear example of our commitment to investing in regional expertise and supporting our businesses as they respond to client demand. Cambridge is a growing and strategically important market, and establishing a local presence enables Airey Miller to deliver even greater value to clients while creating high-quality employment opportunities within the region.” This latest opening marks another important milestone in Airey Miller’s expanding regional footprint as it continues to support sustainable development across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals