Leading commercial property developer, Stoford has completed a bespoke manufacturing facility for MiTek at Worcester Six Business Park. The 278,048 sq ft building consolidates MiTek’s UK and European operations, serving as the business’ EMEA headquarters. Delivered by main contractor Benniman, the development is the first to be delivered on the
Bouygues UK, in partnership with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and leading infrastructure investor Equitix, has secured planning permission from the London Borough of Southwark for the transformative redevelopment of Bankside House. The new 1,945-bed student residence, located at 24 Sumner Street, SE1 – just steps
Marks & Spencer is continuing its push to grow its food business, with plans to open its third new food store in just two weeks. The latest site, located in Farnham, is set to open on Wednesday 25th. The 18,600 sq ft store is one of 12 former Homebase locations
Architect Hopkins has revealed detailed proposals to transform 1 Embankment Place above London’s Charing Cross Station, reworking the ageing office building into a high-specification, low-carbon workplace and mixed-use destination. The scheme is being brought forward for developer Bridgemont and centres on a substantial retrofit of the Terry Farrell-designed property. Rather
Caddick Construction has been appointed to deliver a £46m hotel development in Leeds city centre, marking another significant addition to the city’s growing West End regeneration. The project is being brought forward by joint developers Marrico and Helios, who have secured funding for the scheme on Lisbon Street. The site,
Public sector procurement organisation YPO has announced the successful suppliers appointed to its £500 million modular buildings framework. The four-year agreement is designed to make it easier for public sector bodies to buy or hire modular buildings. It will support a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, housing and
Miller Homes, the UK’s 6th largest housebuilder and largest private housebuilder, has published full-year results for the year ended 31 December 2025, delivering a record year for the business. Performance was driven by the successful integration of St. Modwen Homes, continued investment in land and the expansion of the Group’s multi‑tenure
Balfour Beatty VINCI, HS2’s construction partner in the West Midlands, is preparing to launch the second viaduct over the M6, marking another major milestone in the delivery of the UK’s highspeed rail network. Engineers are gearing up to move the west deck of the M6 South viaduct, which is currently
The UK’s industrial and logistics sector is entering a new era of complexity, driven by automation, labour market pressures, sustainability requirements, planning delays and shifting land values. Yet amid this transformation, KAM, part of Contollo Group, says one truth remains constant: while the base build of a warehouse may appear
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial real estate developer, has made nine senior appointments across its UK development, project delivery and investment and finance teams, as the business continues to scale its acquisition and development programme. The appointments, which bring talent from CBRE, Savills, PwC, Chancerygate, Knight Frank, Boreal
Leading commercial property developer, Stoford has completed a bespoke manufacturing facility for MiTek at Worcester Six Business Park. The 278,048 sq ft building consolidates MiTek’s UK and European operations, serving as the business’ EMEA headquarters. Delivered by main contractor Benniman, the development is the first to be delivered on the southern extension. Completion follows a ribbon cutting ceremony which was attended by MiTek Chairman and CEO, Mark Thom who travelled from the United States for the occasion. Stoford directors Edward Peel and Alex Morgan, and senior dignitaries from both Worcestershire County Council and Wychavon District Council were also present. James Morgan, Managing Director at MiTek: “Opening our home at Worcester Six marks a new chapter in MiTek’s journey as an offsite construction enabler. This facility establishes our European hub for streamlining design, manufacturing, and innovation, and offers a collaborative space where partners across the industry can co-create solutions that accelerate timber construction and raise standards for everyone.” Edward Peel, Director at Stoford: “MiTek’s decision to establish its EMEA headquarters at Worcester Six is significant for the region. It further strengthens Worcestershire’s reputation as a hub for international business. We’re extremely proud to have achieved practical completion on this state-of-the-art facility which will support new jobs, attract long-term investment, and contribute meaningfully to the region’s economic growth for years to come.” Councillor Alan Amos, Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Business and Skills at Worcestershire County Council, said: “This is great news for Worcestershire and for local people. MiTek choosing to base its European headquarters here shows the confidence global companies have in our area. Developments like this bring skilled jobs, investment and long-term benefits for the local economy.” Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon District Council and Executive Board Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, said: “Securing one of the largest business developments the county has seen in many years reflects the strength of Worcester Six as a location and is a sign of confidence in Wychavon and Worcestershire as a whole. MiTek’s decision to base its EMEA headquarters here brings high-value jobs, long-term investment and international visibility, reinforcing Wychavon’s reputation as a place where ambitious businesses can grow and succeed.” Worcester Six is a high-quality business park, located off junction 6 of the M5, that has already attracted a number of world class businesses to the region, including: Alliance Flooring Distribution, IONOS, ZwickRoell, Kohler Mira, Sierra Engineering, Siemens, Spire Healthcare, Kimal, Super Smart Service, Stop Start Logistics and Bidfood. For details about availability at Worcester Six, please contact the schemes retained agents: Charles D’Auncey at Harris Lamb – charles.dauncey@harrislamb.com or Tom Arnold at Colliers – tom.arnold@colliers.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bouygues UK, in partnership with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and leading infrastructure investor Equitix, has secured planning permission from the London Borough of Southwark for the transformative redevelopment of Bankside House. The new 1,945-bed student residence, located at 24 Sumner Street, SE1 – just steps from Tate Modern and the heart of Bankside’s cultural district – will break ground in 2027 and is scheduled to open before September 2032. The scheme represents one of the largest purpose-built student accommodation developments in central London replacing the existing mid-century office conversion with a landmark piece of civic architecture. The project will deliver high-quality, affordable student living and create new public amenities for the Bankside community. Addressing Student Need This significant investment directly supports LSE’s 2030 Strategy goal to offer 6,000 university-controlled bed spaces and guarantee an accommodation offer to every new first-year student. With over 12,000 full-time students, around 60% currently rely on London’s private rental market accommodation. The Bankside redevelopment will make a major contribution to closing this gap, easing housing pressure and supporting student access. Excellence in Development and Construction Bouygues UK is leading both the development and construction of this landmark project, drawing on its track record in sustainable, large-scale delivery in complex urban environments, in partnership with leading infrastructure investor Equitix. Bouygues UK’s team has managed the project from the outset: overseeing an international architectural competition, community and stakeholder engagement, and all planning processes, working closely with design partners Carmody Groarke and Sheppard Robson, as well as planning advisors Montagu Evans Planning, Heritage & Townscape, Viability and Socioeconomics The approved design features three stepped towers of 24, 26 and 28 storeys, linked by two low-rise pavilions, all arranged around generous landscaped courtyards. At ground level, new public routes and active frontages will seamlessly connect Sumner Street with the wider Bankside cultural quarter, creating an open, welcoming environment for students and the local community alike. Sustainability and Innovation Environmental performance is at the core of the development. The scheme targets BREEAM Excellent (with an aspiration for Outstanding), follows WELL principles for health and wellbeing, and aims for Passivhaus certification for operational energy performance. The building will be all-electric, with high-performance insulation and extensive rooftop solar panels, achieving exceptionally low operational energy use (45–55 kWh/m²/year). Bouygues UK will target more than 99% diversion of construction waste from landfill and ensure at least 20% of materials by value are recycled or reused. Through structural optimisation and careful façade specification, the project will minimise upfront embodied carbon, setting a new benchmark for sustainable construction in the sector. Affordable Living and Social Value All student rooms will be offered at sub-market rents, with 15% of bed spaces meeting the London Plan’s definition of Affordable Student Accommodation. A diverse range of room types and price points will broaden access to LSE and help relieve pressure on the wider London rental market. The development is also designed to deliver significant community benefits, including: Quotes “Securing planning permission for Bankside House is a landmark moment for Bouygues UK and for the student accommodation sector in London. In partnership with LSE and Equitix, we’ve developed a scheme that puts affordability, sustainability and community at its core. We’re proud of the role we have had in bringing this project from concept to consent, and we look forward to delivering a building that will stand as a genuine piece of civic architecture for generations to come.”Oliver Campbell, Managing Director, Development, Bouygues UK “This is the culmination of a ten-year engagement with the borough on the redevelopment of our Bankside residences. Working with the Southwark team we have crafted an affordable, sustainable and high-quality design which will make a significant contribution to the borough. The scheme’s civic offer is incredibly strong with genuine public access and community uses integrated within the building and we can’t wait to see LSE’s world class estate extended south of the river.” Julian Robinson, Director of Estates, London School of Economics and Political Science “LSE’s aim is to guarantee an offer of accommodation to all new, first year students. Securing planning permission for Bankside House is a major step forward towards our goal. Our team are extremely excited about the new scheme and what it will mean for LSE students. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the officers and Councillors in Southwark who have been so supportive of our vision for the site.”Ian Spencer, Director of Residential and Catering Services, London School of Economics and Political Science “Bankside House represents a new benchmark for socially impactful investment in central London and the London School of Economics’ role as an international centre of excellence. Securing planning approval is an important milestone for the project for all partners. Working alongside Bouygues and LSE, we remain committed to creating affordable, high‑quality student accommodation that will support the university, its students and the wider community for many years to come.”Hugh Crossley, CEO, Equitix “We are delighted that Southwark Borough Council has granted planning approval for LSE’s Bankside House. Conceived as three distinct yet connected houses, the project will provide an important new home for the LSE student community while contributing a confident addition to London’s river skyline. At ground level, a series of pavilions open the site to the city, strengthening the public realm and creating a welcoming threshold between LSE, the Bankside and the wider urban context. On a student scale, we wanted every room – both spatially and climatically – to be a genuinely good room, meeting Passivhaus standards and setting a new benchmark for sustainable design. We look forward to progressing the project in close collaboration with our partners, Bouygues UK, Equitix and LSE.”Rupert Goddard, Partner at Sheppard Robson and Rowan Seaford, Director at Carmody Groarke Next steps With planning permission now secured, Bouygues UK will progress detailed construction planning work, including its gateway 2 submission. The new Bankside House is scheduled to open before September 2032, ready to welcome its first cohort of students at the start
Marks & Spencer is continuing its push to grow its food business, with plans to open its third new food store in just two weeks. The latest site, located in Farnham, is set to open on Wednesday 25th. The 18,600 sq ft store is one of 12 former Homebase locations currently being redeveloped by the retailer. This follows two recent openings: a 16,000 sq ft store in Luton Bramingham and a 15,000 sq ft food outlet at Hatfield Oldings Corner, both also converted from former Homebase units. These rapid launches form part of M&S’s wider strategy to significantly expand its food division by increasing its store footprint across the UK. The larger format stores allow the retailer to introduce an enhanced in-store experience, including features such as hot chicken counters, bakeries and dedicated coffee areas. Alex Freudmann, Managing Director of M&S Food, said the business is undergoing a major transformation, with a focus on delivering both value and high-quality, innovative products to customers. He explained that securing the right locations with sufficient space is key to offering a broader range suited to families and everyday shopping needs. He added that the company is bringing M&S Food to three new towns this month, with a strong pipeline of further openings planned throughout the year. In addition to new stores, M&S is also investing in its existing estate. Its latest renewal project launched last Thursday at Westway in Chelmsford, following an eight-week refurbishment. Looking ahead, M&S is targeting around 500 locations across the UK for new, larger sites capable of stocking its full food range, with the average store size expected to reach around 18,000 sq ft. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Architect Hopkins has revealed detailed proposals to transform 1 Embankment Place above London’s Charing Cross Station, reworking the ageing office building into a high-specification, low-carbon workplace and mixed-use destination. The scheme is being brought forward for developer Bridgemont and centres on a substantial retrofit of the Terry Farrell-designed property. Rather than demolish and rebuild, the plans will retain around 90 per cent of the existing structure, along with most of the current façade, while comprehensively overhauling the building internally and at street level. The redevelopment will provide 35,000 sq m of Grade A office accommodation, alongside new outdoor terraces, upgraded occupier amenities and a reimagined ground floor. A more premium mix of retail, food and leisure uses is proposed at lower level, with the intention of creating a livelier, more attractive destination in this high-profile central London location. A key part of the design is the opening up of the building at street level, particularly along Villiers Street. Active frontages and improved access to daylight are intended to strengthen the relationship between the building and the public realm, helping to create a more welcoming and better-connected urban environment. Sustainability is central to the proposals. The project is targeting a 70 per cent reduction in operational energy use, supported by all-electric building systems and integrated rooftop solar panels. The scheme is also aiming for leading environmental credentials, including BREEAM Outstanding, reflecting the growing demand for high-performance, retrofit-led commercial space in central London. In addition to the internal reconfiguration and energy upgrades, the wider plans include improvements to pedestrian routes around the site, reinforcing its role within one of Westminster’s busiest transport and commercial hubs. The proposal positions 1 Embankment Place as one of the capital’s most significant retrofit office opportunities, combining the retention of a recognised landmark structure with the delivery of modern workspace, upgraded amenities and stronger environmental performance. The plans have now entered public consultation ahead of a formal planning submission. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Caddick Construction has been appointed to deliver a £46m hotel development in Leeds city centre, marking another significant addition to the city’s growing West End regeneration. The project is being brought forward by joint developers Marrico and Helios, who have secured funding for the scheme on Lisbon Street. The site, formerly home to the Leeds International Swimming Pool, is set to be transformed into a new hospitality destination as part of wider redevelopment plans in the area. Caddick will act as main contractor on the 16-storey scheme, which will feature 200 hotel rooms under the ‘room2 hometel’ brand, operated by Lamington Group. The accommodation will include a mix of studios and suites designed to cater for both short stays and longer-term guests, reflecting changing patterns in the hospitality market. In addition to guest rooms, the development will include a ground floor café and bar, meeting and events facilities, a gym, laundry provision and a selection of retail concessions. The scheme is intended to create a flexible, modern hospitality offering that supports Leeds’ expanding visitor economy. Designed by DLA Architecture, the building will be fully electric and powered by renewable energy, aligning with wider sustainability targets and contributing to the city’s ambitions for low-carbon development. Construction is expected to begin in May 2026, with completion targeted for spring 2028. Steve Ford, regional managing director of Caddick Construction Yorkshire and North East, said the scheme represents an important opportunity to support the continued regeneration of Leeds’ West End while delivering a high-quality and sustainable hotel development. He added that the project builds on Caddick’s experience in delivering complex city centre schemes and reinforces its presence across Yorkshire and the North East. The Lisbon Street development is set to play a key role in revitalising the surrounding area, bringing new activity, investment and amenities to a prominent city centre site. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Public sector procurement organisation YPO has announced the successful suppliers appointed to its £500 million modular buildings framework. The four-year agreement is designed to make it easier for public sector bodies to buy or hire modular buildings. It will support a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, housing and justice, by providing faster and more flexible building solutions. Michelle Walker, Head of Procurement Service and Supply Solutions at YPO (pictured), said the framework brings together a strong group of providers delivering both innovative and sustainable options. She explained that the organisation is looking forward to working closely with suppliers and helping contracting authorities get the most value from modular construction, both in terms of efficiency and long-term benefits. A total of 28 companies have secured places across 15 lots on the framework. These include: Actiform LimitedAirport Capacity Solutions LimitedCleveland Sitesafe LimitedElite Systems (GB) LimitedHealth Spaces LimitedHealthmatic LimitedIdeal Building Systems LimitedInstaspace LtdIntegra Buildings LimitedJDC Building Works LtdMac Zero Modular Buildings LtdMcAvoy Modular Offsite LimitedModuleCo Healthcare LimitedModuleCo LimitedMy Fab LimitedP McVey Building Systems LtdPKL Group (UK) LimitedPortable Offices (Hire) LimitedPortakabin LimitedPremier Modular LimitedQube Structures Ltd trading as The QubeSilwood Facilities Limited trading as Silwood SpaceSKW Construction LtdStelling Modular Limited trading as Stelling PropertiesThurston Group LimitedWernick Buildings LimitedWestern Building Systems LtdZED Pods Ltd The framework is expected to play a key role in accelerating the adoption of modular construction across the UK public sector, helping organisations deliver buildings more quickly, sustainably and cost-effectively. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Miller Homes, the UK’s 6th largest housebuilder and largest private housebuilder, has published full-year results for the year ended 31 December 2025, delivering a record year for the business. Performance was driven by the successful integration of St. Modwen Homes, continued investment in land and the expansion of the Group’s multi‑tenure model. The business achieved significant growth across all key metrics, demonstrating the effectiveness of its long‑term strategy and strengthening its platform for future expansion. Highlights Commenting on the results, Chief Executive, Stewart Lynes, said: “2025 was a milestone year for Miller Homes, and I am delighted to report strong results that reflect the effectiveness of our growth strategy and disciplined operational execution. “We achieved significant, profitable volume growth despite the macro‑economic backdrop, driven by the successful acquisition of St. Modwen Homes in January and the benefit of sustained organic land investment. “The St. Modwen Homes acquisition introduced a second private brand to our portfolio, providing us with four routes to market, and expanded both our consented and strategic landbanks. Achieving a five-star rating from HBF for the 14th time in 15 years further demonstrates our strong and consistent focus on delivering for our customers. “Looking ahead, following this transformative year, we are well‑positioned to deliver further profitable growth as we progress towards our 7,000 homes target supported by our enlarged landbank and multi‑tenure approach. Externally, we are monitoring the economic effects of the Middle East conflict. Our digital sales and marketing system provides granular lead indicators, which to date show no adverse impact, and we stand ready to respond swiftly should conditions change.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Balfour Beatty VINCI, HS2’s construction partner in the West Midlands, is preparing to launch the second viaduct over the M6, marking another major milestone in the delivery of the UK’s highspeed rail network. Engineers are gearing up to move the west deck of the M6 South viaduct, which is currently being assembled in four sections near Chelmsley Wood. The first 107metre section will be slid into position over the M6 junction 4 southbound slip road , using a specialist hydraulic jack to manoeuvre the 1,250tonne weathering steel structure across 102 metres onto its concrete piers. Once installed, the west deck will sit parallel to the 320metre east deck, which was safely launched over the M6 in three stages in 2025. The final phase of that installation was a UKfirst, completed while traffic continued to flow beneath the structure thanks to close collaboration between HS2 and National Highways. Russel Luckhurt, Civil Engineer at Balfour Beatty VINCI said: “Building on the success of installing the East deck viaduct last year, we’re gearing up for the first launch of the neighbouring West deck in April. “We’re using the same sliding technique, where a giant hydraulic jack will push the viaduct across the motorway in multiple stages throughout the year. The previous launches provided the team with invaluable experience, which they’re eager to apply to future works on this eye-catching structure spanning the M6.” The west deck has required an additional assembly stage compared with the east deck. Space constraints, the staggered positioning of the abutments, and the curve of the adjacent loop road have created a shorter launch platform, meaning the structure must be built in four smaller sections before sliding into place. Commenting on progress, Ian Clarke, HS2 Ltd’s Project Manager for the M6 works, said: “After safely completing the first viaduct on time, our engineers have wasted no time in forging ahead with the second installation. Thanks to the world‑class engineering techniques we’re adopting on HS2, we’ve once again been able to reduce the number of temporary closures on the motorway while we carry out these essential works.” Once complete, the twin 320‑metre viaducts will carry HS2 trains over one of the busiest parts of the motorway network, improving capacity and connectivity between Birmingham and London. The launch represents another significant achievement for Balfour Beatty VINCI as it continues to deliver major civil engineering works across the West Midlands section of HS2. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s industrial and logistics sector is entering a new era of complexity, driven by automation, labour market pressures, sustainability requirements, planning delays and shifting land values. Yet amid this transformation, KAM, part of Contollo Group, says one truth remains constant: while the base build of a warehouse may appear straightforward, the fit-out is where the real complexity lies. “On the surface, a warehouse can look like a fairly simple construction project,” Contollo Group Director Scott Price says. “But once you introduce automation, temperature control, manufacturing processes or robotics, the building becomes a high-performance machine. The fit-out is where projects succeed or unnecessary compromises have to be made” The industrial sector has historically been the quiet workhorse of the retail economy. Today, it sits at the forefront of retail success, driven by the relentless rise of eCommerce and the need for faster, more resilient supply chains with automated distribution centres being integral. Yet Price warns that many projects still treat automation as an afterthought. Integrating automation into a building that is already well into the design process and programme – or worse, already under construction – creates a level of complexity that cannot be underestimated. Speaking as Contollo Group expands its industrial and manufacturing portfolio across the UK, Price comments: “We’re now in a phase where warehouse automation isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s becoming the backbone of logistics resilience. The only sustainable response is to design buildings and automation systems as one integrated ecosystem from the very start.” Price warns that the biggest operational risks arise long before a shovel hits the ground. “Developer base build specs and automation contractor requirements rarely align without challenge. For example, floor slab tolerances, deformation limits, shrinkage expectations and pattern loading are not small technicalities. If they’re accepted at face value, they can add millions to a project or introduce risks that only surface once the system is live.” He argues that logistics operators who treat early-stage design as a strategic investment, not a procedural step, will be the ones who stay competitive. “The winners will be those who interrogate every clause, negotiate every interface, and bring specialist project managers into the process early. Warehousing has become a strategic engine for speed, resilience and competitive advantage. You can’t afford to get the fundamentals wrong.” That mindset becomes even more critical when planning for future expansion. As eCommerce reshapes operational models, internal volume is becoming as valuable as footprint. Traditional ground-level operations are giving way to mezzanines, pick towers and multi-level fulfilment environments, but Price notes that the real challenge is balancing day-one cost with long-term flexibility. Designing for future floor slab loads, or incorporating additional steel into structural mezzanines for future vertical expansion, can avoid costly disruption later. “Futureproofing isn’t about overbuilding, it’s about making smart decisions that keep options open without inflating the base build unnecessarily.” Electrical design presents another hidden pressure point. Automation firms often have not finalised their electrical requirements when the base build specification is being agreed, meaning the eventual load can far exceed the developer’s standard offer. Price says this is where specialist engineering input becomes essential. “Automation load calculations are frequently conservative because diversity isn’t applied. Without challenge, you end up designing for every motor starting simultaneously, which is unrealistic and expensive.” Sprinkler design and insurer engagement add further layers of complexity. Automation equipment rarely conforms to standard design details, and densely packed systems, such as multi-shuttle installations, require detailed coordination to agree acceptable fire protection strategies. Price stresses that insurers must be brought in early. “If you wait until procurement to engage insurers, you’ve already lost time. Early coordination on principles and approval pathways avoids redesign, delay and unnecessary cost.” Health and safety responsibilities also evolve as automation becomes more sophisticated. Under CDM Regulations, a Principal Designer must be appointed not only for the building works but also for the automation installation. Price advises: “Segregating the site into defined zones can reduce risk and improve control.” Ultimately, Price says, the success of any logistics project hinges on programme cohesion. New builds and retrofits alike depend on multiple interlocking timelines, each with its own milestones and data requirements. “If these programmes aren’t synced from the outset, delays and cost escalation become almost inevitable.” “Warehouses of the future will be industrial hubs, energy generators and data-rich environments,” Price says. “They must be designed for long-term productivity, not just short-term occupation.” Price emphasises that the winners in this new landscape will be those who align building design, automation strategy and commercial negotiations from day one. “Fit-out is no longer a technical exercise – it’s a strategic investment. Organisations that recognise this early, and who bring the right expertise to the table, will be the ones who deliver resilient, efficient and future-ready logistics assets.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial real estate developer, has made nine senior appointments across its UK development, project delivery and investment and finance teams, as the business continues to scale its acquisition and development programme. The appointments, which bring talent from CBRE, Savills, PwC, Chancerygate, Knight Frank, Boreal IM, Montagu Evans and Interpath Advisory, reflect the depth of Panattoni’s current UK pipeline and its confidence in continuing to invest in its people at a time when many across the sector are consolidating their workforces. Last year the company acquired 11 sites, secured 250 acres of land adding five million sq ft to its development pipeline, as well as leasing 2.5 million sq ft of space. That momentum has continued into 2026, with four lease transactions already signed in the first quarter. Development Three appointments have been made across Panattoni’s UK development platform, covering Southern England, London and the North. Alex Selwood joins as Associate Director from CBRE, where he was a Director advising industrial occupiers on their property acquisitions. Based within the Southern England and London team, he will focus on new site acquisitions and leasing activity. Chris Brown joins as Development Director from Chancerygate, where he was focusing on acquisitions in the North of England. He will help lead the expansion of Panattoni’s acquisition and leasing activity across its Northern portfolio. Will Fennell joins as Development Manager, South East and London, from Montagu Evans, where he was an Associate, and will work closely with occupiers on leasing while supporting speculative development across the region. Oliver Bertram, Head of Development (UK) at Panattoni, said: “The scale of our UK pipeline demands a development team with the depth and range to execute across multiple regions simultaneously. Alex, Will and Chris each bring a level of experience and market knowledge that will directly support our ability to move quickly on acquisitions and maintain leasing momentum. The breadth of their backgrounds, from occupier advisory to speculative development, reflects the range of what we are building at Panattoni.” Chris Brown, Panattoni new hire as Development Director, said: “I’m delighted to be joining Panattoni at such an exciting point in its growth. The momentum the business has built over the past few years has been remarkable, establishing itself as the most active industrial developer in the UK and a market leader across multiple regions. It’s a great platform to be part of, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the continued expansion of the Northern portfolio. Project Delivery Three appointments have been made to Panattoni’s Southern Project Management Team. Phil Beato joins as Project Delivery Director, having previously managed development and repositioning projects across Europe at Boreal IM. Tom Bird joins in the same role from Savills, where he was a Project Management Director. Chris Thrippleton joins as Senior Project Manager from Chancerygate, where he focused on project management for industrial developments. Ian Anderson, Head of Project Management at Panattoni, said: “Delivering at the pace our pipeline now requires means having the right people embedded at every stage of the process, from initial due diligence through to handover. Phil, Tom and Chris strengthen our capacity to do exactly that. Between them they bring experience across complex European development programmes, major project management mandates and industrial delivery at scale, and I am looking forward to what we will achieve together.” Phil Beato, Project Delivery Director, said: “It’s great to join Panattoni and gain a deeper understanding of the development platform from within such a well-respected global business. The scale, quality and ambition of the pipeline is clear to see, and it’s an exciting time to come on board. Having delivered development and repositioning projects across Europe, I’m looking forward to bringing that experience to the team and supporting the next phase of the company’s growth across the UK.” Capital Markets Panattoni has also bolstered its UK capital markets team against a backdrop of renewed investor appetite and activity across the sector. Phoebe Burdett has joined as Capital Markets Analyst from Knight Frank’s London Capital Markets team and will play a central role in capital formation, supporting investor relations and transaction management across the platform. Investment and Finance Two appointments have been made to Panattoni’s finance and investment team, strengthening its capacity to enhance financial structuring, execution and managing an increasingly active development programme. Garrick Pepper joins as Associate Director, Investment and Finance, from PwC, where he led advisory work across M&A and corporate finance transactions. Garrick is an active contributor to the UK property industry and serves on the British Property Federation’s Logistics Committee and Futures Advisory Board. Zachary Atkinson joins as Associate, Investment and Finance, from Interpath Advisory, where he was a Manager in M&A, having previously worked at KPMG. Oliver Choppin, Finance Director at Panattoni, said: “We are delighted to welcome Garrick and Zachary to the team to deepen and broaden our finance and investment function. Their appointments significantly strengthen our capabilities across transaction management, capital deployment and financial operations, ensuring we are well positioned to support the continued growth of the business. As our pipeline continues to expand, building out a best-in-class finance team is critical. These hires reflect our long-term commitment to disciplined growth, strong governance and delivering value for our investors and partners.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals