Robertson Construction North East has been appointed to deliver a new cinema and leisure complex in Ashington, marking a major step forward in the £36 million transformation of the Northumberland town centre. The design and build project, located at Portland Park, will see the development of a five-screen cinema alongside
Winvic Construction is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted for the prestigious Contractor of the Year (turnover over £500M) category at the Construction News Awards 2026 as it celebrates its 25th year in business. Recognised as one of the construction industry’s most respected and competitive accolades, the Construction
Low Carbon Construction Plc, a UK-based house manufacturer, has set out plans to deliver large-scale affordable housing across the UK, alongside proposals to pursue a London Stock Exchange listing to support delivery. The combined strategy positions the UK-based house manufacturer at the centre of efforts to address the UK’s housing
As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. Occupiers facing supply chain recalibration, cost inflation and labour market constraints, are sharpening their logistics requirements. As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift.
Greggs has unveiled an updated property requirements list as it accelerates plans to expand its UK footprint, signalling continued demand for a diverse range of retail and roadside locations across the country. The food-to-go operator, which secured 100 new shop locations during 2025, is actively seeking leasehold units with a
Siemens Smart Infrastructure has launched a new, comprehensive portfolio of direct current (DC) protection and switching solutions, solidifying its position as a pioneer in the DC era. The new offering, including the innovative SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker and the SIRIUS 3RF5 solid-state switching device, is designed to meet the
AG, a Tyrone headquartered, manufacturer of low carbon paving and building products, has launched Heathfield, a new clay‑like concrete brick range designed to challenge long‑held assumptions about what brick should be. Developed in response to growing pressure on traditional clay supply, rising energy costs and increasing demand for consistent, reliable
Bricklaying students visited Bellway’s Roe Wood Park development in Harold Hill to get an insight into work on a construction site. The 10 students, who are all studying for their Level 1 Bricklaying qualification at New City College, were welcomed by Bellway Senior Site Manager David Barden. The visit took
Eversheds Sutherland (International) is pleased to announce that it has made 25 partner promotions with effect from 1 May 2026. 40% of Eversheds Sutherland’s new partners are female. The latest round of promotions includes two construction lawyers based within the firms Litigation & Dispute Management practice group, underlining the firm’s
The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects WORKING together to uncover the sector’s brightest and boldest ideas, UKREiiF and strategic marketing agency Cartwright have revealed the shortlist for the ‘One Big Idea’ initiative. Nearly 100 entries were received from
Robertson Construction North East has been appointed to deliver a new cinema and leisure complex in Ashington, marking a major step forward in the £36 million transformation of the Northumberland town centre. The design and build project, located at Portland Park, will see the development of a five-screen cinema alongside a mix of complementary leisure uses. The scheme includes space for two restaurants and a family-focused ‘competitive socialising’ venue, reflecting a growing trend towards experience-led town centre regeneration. Planning approval for the development was secured last year, with construction now set to begin in the coming months. The project is being delivered by Advance Northumberland on behalf of Northumberland County Council and has been procured via the Procure Partnerships Framework. Once complete, the cinema will be operated by independent operator REEL Cinemas and will serve as the only ‘first run’ cinema between Edinburgh and Blyth. The venue is expected to attract between 125,000 and 157,000 visitors annually, significantly boosting footfall and supporting the town’s wider economic recovery. The development forms part of a broader strategy to reposition Ashington town centre as a vibrant destination for leisure, dining and social activity. By extending activity into the evening and weekend economy, the scheme aims to increase dwell time and encourage greater local spending. Neil Kennedy, regional managing director at Robertson Construction North East, said the project represents an opportunity to deliver meaningful long-term benefits for the community. He highlighted the role of high-quality developments in driving regeneration, supporting local businesses and enhancing the overall appeal of town centres. The scheme is being funded through a combination of public sector investment, including support from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Northumberland County Council and Advance Northumberland. Local stakeholders have welcomed the project as a significant milestone in the town’s regeneration journey. The cinema and leisure complex will complement other recent and planned investments in the area, including new transport infrastructure and education facilities, helping to reinforce Ashington’s position as a growing regional hub. The appointment underlines continued confidence in town centre regeneration projects that prioritise mixed-use, experience-led environments, with construction-led delivery playing a key role in unlocking long-term economic and social value. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Winvic Construction is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted for the prestigious Contractor of the Year (turnover over £500M) category at the Construction News Awards 2026 as it celebrates its 25th year in business. Recognised as one of the construction industry’s most respected and competitive accolades, the Construction News Awards celebrate the organisations, projects and people that are driving excellence, innovation and impact across the built environment. Also marking the 30th anniversary of the awards – a rigorous judging process is led by an independent panel of over 100 senior industry figures, being shortlisted is a significant achievement and testament to Winvic’s Doing It Right ethos and values-led approach, The Winvic Way, delivering outstanding results for clients and the communities in which it operates. The Contractor of the Year category highlights organisations that demonstrate exceptional performance across a range of criteria, including project delivery, sustainability, innovation and workforce development. Winvic’s shortlisting, on the 25th year anniversary of the business, reflects the strength of its diverse portfolio and its ability to deliver complex, high-quality projects across multiple sectors, alongside recognising the company’s ongoing investment in its people and innovative construction methods, such as the use of a unitised brick façade system enabling the rapid installation of 2,768 prefabricated panels without scaffolding, HP SitePrint Robot and the UK’s first deployment of Skyline Cockpit for remote tower crane operation at Crown Place, Birmingham. Operationally, Winvic expanded delivery and community outcomes across its three core sectors in 2025, completing 20 Industrial & Logistics, 34 Civils & Infrastructure, and five Multi-Room projects, while launching a fourth sector, Data Centres in 2026. It also announced the early completion of a £14m infrastructure scheme in Milton Keynes, delivered three months ahead of programme, helping to minimise disruption and improve efficiency. The contractor showcased its leading ESG credentials achieving Achilles Net CarbonZero Certification, reducing overall carbon footprint by 71% in compliance with the Achilles Climate Impact Programme Part 3 requirements, and innovated an industry-first water pollution solution at SEGRO Park, Coventry. During the year, Winvic completed its 91st Net Zero/ Low Carbon facility and hosted its 10th workshop with 80 partners from its Green Supply Chain to collaboratively embed best practice and accelerate progress towards a Net Zero future. Danny Nelson, Managing Director of Industrial, Logistics and Data Centres at Winvic, said: “Winvic’s shortlisting for Contractor of the Year is a commendable achievement and a reflection of the hard work, commitment and expertise of teams across our entire business. “We pride ourselves on consistently delivering best-in-class projects while continuing to invest in our people, innovation and sustainable practices. I’d like to thank our teams, clients, supply chain and partners for their continued commitment and collaboration, which has made both this shortlisting and the last 25 years possible. Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted.” Join Winvic on social media – LinkedIn, and Instagram. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Low Carbon Construction Plc, a UK-based house manufacturer, has set out plans to deliver large-scale affordable housing across the UK, alongside proposals to pursue a London Stock Exchange listing to support delivery. The combined strategy positions the UK-based house manufacturer at the centre of efforts to address the UK’s housing shortage, at a time when delivery rates continue to fall short of national targets. Data from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government indicates that approximately 196,500 homes were added to England’s housing stock between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, well below the 300,000 homes to meet the Government’s ambition of 1.5 million homes. Forecasts show that the UK could miss this target by nearly half if current trends continue. The company argues that traditional construction methods alone cannot meet demand due to labour shortages, material constraints and planning delays. Bridgette Farrow, Main Board Director of Low Carbon Construction Plc, said the initiative aims to shift the national conversation from ambition to delivery. “The ambition to build 1.5 million homes reflects the scale of the housing crisis, but the reality is that delivery is already falling behind. Without structural change in how homes are financed, approved and built, the gap will continue to widen. Our model is designed to address that challenge head-on.” The company’s Offsite/Onsite construction system combines factory-manufactured components with coordinated onsite assembly, enabling high-volume housing delivery while maintaining compliance with national technical and environmental standards. Under the proposal, Low Carbon Construction Plc aims to deliver one million affordable homes. The plan proposes between 75 and 100 new large-scale communities nationwide, alongside 100 to 200 smaller urban extensions, supported by up to 1,000 ‘flying assembly factories’ operating concurrently. These developments would integrate housing with schools, transport infrastructure, employment hubs, renewable energy systems and public open space. The company also proposes that major housing developments be designated as nationally significant projects, enabling faster decision-making through central planning processes to support large-scale delivery. To deliver at this scale, Low Carbon Construction Plc has confirmed plans to pursue a full listing on the London Stock Exchange, unlocking access to private capital and ensuring the delivery of its national housing strategy. The company said that recent reforms to UK listing rules, introduced by the Financial Conduct Authority, have created a more accessible environment for growth companies seeking to raise long-term investment. “The UK needs homes at scale, and that requires capital at scale,” added Bridgette. “Listing on the London Stock Exchange allows us to bring in long-term investors to support the infrastructure, manufacturing and delivery systems needed to make this plan a reality.” The company is currently engaging with IPO sponsors, institutional investors, banks and equity partners to support the next phase of its growth. Low Carbon Construction Plc shared that its housing model meets Technical Housing Standards, Nationally Described Space Standards and Part M of the Building Regulations, while aligning with Future Homes Standard principles and the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard. The scale of the challenge is reinforced by wider economic and social data. A report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, commissioned by Shelter and the National Housing Federation, highlights the broader economic case for large-scale housing delivery, estimating that building and managing 90,000 social homes in a single year could generate £51.2 billion in net economic benefit over 30 years. Meanwhile, more than 1.3 million households remain on council waiting lists, with approximately 350,000 living in temporary accommodation in England alone. Against this backdrop, Low Carbon Construction Plc says its manufacturing-led approach offers a route to bridge the gap between ambition and delivery. The company reports that approximately 180 organisations have expressed support for the initiative, with further engagement underway across the construction, finance and infrastructure sectors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. Occupiers facing supply chain recalibration, cost inflation and labour market constraints, are sharpening their logistics requirements. As Europe settles into 2026, the logistics and industrial real estate landscape is undergoing a decisive shift. Occupiers facing supply‑chain recalibration, cost inflation and labour market constraints, are sharpening their logistics requirements. Insights from the December 2025 Affinius Capital Sponsor Report illustrate how occupier preferences are evolving and what this means for big box developers. Its findings reveal much about occupier sentiment and have enabled Mountpark to pinpoint the Top Five Occupier Trends defining logistics in 2026: 1. Next generation design Affinius’ findings reveal occupiers continue to prioritise modern, high‑specification logistics facilities, widening the gap between demand for grade A space and the obsolescence of older stock. The report highlights that tenant preferences strongly favour modern, quality space, especially as older, functionally outdated buildings no longer support operational needs. This trend reflects: For Mountpark, which is already delivering next‑generation design, this reinforces the importance of continuing to lead on high-quality, future-proofed assets. One strong example is Mountpark Ferrybridge in Yorkshire, a former power-generation site now transforming into a next-generation logistics campus, and one that puts sustainable innovation at its core, targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC A+ ratings. The first unit was pre-let to Warburtons, demonstrating just how strong the demand is for Grade A properties. 2. Fight to quality While demand remains resilient, new supply is tightening sharply. European logistics completions are projected to decline by a staggering 40% from 2022 to 2026, driven by elevated borrowing costs and construction inflation that is reducing the feasibility of projects. This creates conditions where occupiers will increasingly compete for the best‑located, best‑specified space and where developers bold enough to continue delivering logistics assets will gain market advantage. Build-to-suit may also become more attractive to occupiers struggling to speculatively completed properties. At Mountpark, we want every business to have the choice to occupy or build a facility that genuinely fits its future. In an environment defined by scarcity, our goal is to deliver certainty, quality and room to grow. View our portfolio of live projects across Europe here. 3. ESG and Power Requirements Across Europe, occupiers are raising expectations around sustainability, energy performance, and regulatory compliance. The Affinius report notes that Europe’s regulatory environment places a strong focus on sustainability, data security and privacy, particularly in sectors such as data centres. Key ESG requirements include: Occupiers do not simply favour ESG‑aligned buildings they increasingly avoid non-compliant stock, accelerating the obsolescence of older facilities. Build‑to‑suit delivery is an increasingly powerful tool in this environment, enabling occupiers to align property specifications precisely with their operational priorities, ensuring they fully reflect and support ESG commitments. And it’s not just data centres where power requirements are rising. Occupiers across logistics, manufacturing and 3PL operations are requiring greater grid capacity to support their increased use of automation, robotics and AI‑enabled systems. Occupiers in 2026 will be seeking locations with the ability to scale energy use over time. Developers who can deliver these power‑robust sites will win disproportionate market share. Our focus at Mountpark for 2026 is therefore on identifying and accelerating sites with excellent power requirements while prioritising locations with undersupply, ensuring occupiers can secure future‑ready facilities even as market competition intensifies. 4. Location Strategy Affinius’ report emphasises the regionalisation of higher‑value manufacturing, growth in ecommerce and on/near‑shoring initiatives as key forces shaping logistics demand. Occupiers are reassessing their network footprints to prioritise proximity to labour pools, access to multimodal transport infrastructure and locations supporting resilient, diversified supply chains. With market conditions fluid and supply chains still adapting, occupiers also want flexible buildings that allow them to upscale or relocate quickly. The report shows latent demand delayed by macro uncertainty, with leasing momentum expected to rebound once conditions stabilise. Mountpark’s strategic landbank and presence across major European hubs positions it strongly to support occupiers recalibrating their networks. In the UK, Mountpark Hinckley is an excellent example, situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle, the UK’s premier logistics location, with unrivalled connectivity to national transport routes and major parcel hubs. The scheme has the ability to deliver up to 1.46 million sq ft of space, with Unit 1 (492,000 sq ft) already pre-let and Units 2 and 3 capable of delivery in Q2 2027, providing the certainty and speed to market that today’s occupiers increasingly demand. 5. Cost Predictability and Operational Efficiency Rising costs including energy, labour and transport are pushing occupiers to focus on buildings that make operations cheaper and more efficient. Key requirements include: Given stabilising valuations and easing borrowing costs highlighted in the Affinius report, occupiers may increasingly adopt long-term strategic leases to lock in the operational efficiencies. The leasing of all seven units at Mountpark Baldonnell in Ireland, prior to practical completion, reflects our ability to deliver complex, high-value developments that align with occupiers’ long term strategies. These five trends underline the decisive shifts defining logistics in 2026. Today’s savvy occupiers understand precisely what is required to support performance, resilience and long‑term growth and they are increasingly unwilling to compromise. Mountpark’s dedication to best‑in‑class design, forward‑thinking innovation and strategic development across Europe ensures we remain ideally positioned to meet and exceed the expectations of the modern occupier. Take an even deeper dive by viewing our live portfolio of projects across Europe offering a range of both speculative and build-to-suit opportunities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Greggs has unveiled an updated property requirements list as it accelerates plans to expand its UK footprint, signalling continued demand for a diverse range of retail and roadside locations across the country. The food-to-go operator, which secured 100 new shop locations during 2025, is actively seeking leasehold units with a minimum floor area of 900 sq ft. Its acquisition strategy spans both in-town and out-of-town environments, reflecting a flexible approach to site selection aligned with changing consumer habits. Target locations include high streets, shopping centres and transport hubs, alongside retail parks, roadside plots, industrial areas and business parks. The company is also open to opportunities within supermarkets and suburban parades, while continuing to grow its drive-through estate, an increasingly important format within the quick-service sector. Greggs’ broad property criteria highlights the ongoing convergence between retail and industrial real estate, particularly in roadside and logistics-linked locations where accessibility and convenience are key. Sites within mixed-use schemes and employment-led developments are likely to play a growing role in supporting this expansion. The company is aiming to deliver approximately 120 net new stores in 2026, despite reporting a dip in profits in the previous year. With an existing estate of around 2,700 outlets, Greggs has identified capacity to exceed 3,000 locations across the UK over the longer term, underpinned by what it describes as a strong pipeline of opportunities. In addition to its core formats, Greggs is set to trial a new ‘bitesize Greggs’ concept, designed to operate in more constrained urban locations where space is limited but demand remains high. The expansion strategy reflects sustained occupier demand for well-located, flexible units, reinforcing the role of retail-led operators in driving activity across both traditional high streets and emerging urban logistics and roadside environments. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Siemens Smart Infrastructure has launched a new, comprehensive portfolio of direct current (DC) protection and switching solutions, solidifying its position as a pioneer in the DC era. The new offering, including the innovative SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker and the SIRIUS 3RF5 solid-state switching device, is designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable, efficient, and reliable low-voltage power distribution and industrial switching technology. Integrated in power distribution systems such as SIVACON S8 low-voltage switchboard and SIVACON 8PS busbar trunking systems, these solutions are particularly crucial for high-performance applications such as data centers, especially AI Factories, production facilities and battery storage systems, as well as for the integration of renewable energies. The shift from widely used AC (Alternating Current) systems towards DC technology is a critical step in the global energy transition. Renewable energy sources like photovoltaics (PV) and battery storage systems generate or store electricity as Direct Current. By reducing conversion (DC to AC) losses and enabling the direct integration of renewable energy sources, DC systems offer a more efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional AC grids. Siemens is at the forefront of this transformation, with a deep commitment to research and development, demonstrated by its active participation in initiatives like the Open Direct Current Alliance (ODCA) and Current/OS. A key innovation in the new portfolio is the SENTRON 3QD2 semiconductor circuit breaker. Based on semiconductor technology and smart protection algorithms, it enables ultra-fast interruption of short circuits in the microsecond range, up to 1,000 times faster than conventional systems. This is mandatory for DC grids and offers a significant increase of protection and system availability. “With the consistent development of our pioneering semiconductor switching technology, we enable a new level of electrical safety also for the DC era,” said Andreas Matthé, CEO of Electrical Products at Siemens. The parametrizable SENTRON 3QD2 combines protection, switching, monitoring, and energy management in a single compact and multifunctional unit, replacing multiple components and saving significant space. Being maintenance-free with no mechanical wear parts, the SENTRON 3QD2 ensures a long service life and maximum plant availability, making it ideal for critical infrastructure. “Our new DC portfolio equips customers with innovative solutions that not only enhance energy efficiency but also enable them to build a more resilient, future-ready infrastructure. This is a crucial contribution to the decarbonization of our industries and a testament to our commitment to creating technologies with purpose,” Andreas Matthé added. Complementing the SENTRON 3QD2 is the new SIRIUS 3RF5 solid-state switching device, the first of its kind for DC applications. It is designed for high-frequency switching of resistive loads, offering a low wear and durable solution that enhances the efficiency and availability of industrial plants. The SIRIUS 3RF5 also carries the Siemens EcoTech Label, highlighting its sustainable and transparent product design. Together with the SIVACON S8 low-voltage switchboard (with Siemens EcoTech Label), SIVACON 8PS busbar trunking systems as well as integrated DC protection and switching devices, we are paving the way for new DC solutions, supporting a high level of reliability and efficiency in production or infrastructure. The advantages of DC solutions extend beyond individual products. By implementing DC grids, customers can achieve significant cost and material savings. For example, in a manufacturing setting with the use of robots, applying DC technology combined with energy recuperation and storage can reduce peak power demand by up to 80 percent, leading to substantial cost reductions. Furthermore, DC systems eliminate the need for reactive power compensation and require less copper in cabling, resulting in up to 50 percent material savings and a smaller environmental footprint. Siemens will present its new portfolio at the Hannover Messe 2026 in Hall 27, booth A 48. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
AG, a Tyrone headquartered, manufacturer of low carbon paving and building products, has launched Heathfield, a new clay‑like concrete brick range designed to challenge long‑held assumptions about what brick should be. Developed in response to growing pressure on traditional clay supply, rising energy costs and increasing demand for consistent, reliable materials, Heathfield delivers the authentic appearance of clay with the performance, availability and sustainability of precision‑engineered concrete. The launch marks the latest step in AG’s continued investment in innovation that gives developers and specifiers greater confidence in an increasingly unpredictable market. Each brick is moulded directly from clay samples, with varied embossing applied across each slice offering 27 unique patterns to replicate the natural, irregular surface of clay. This creates a non-repetitive, organic finish across elevations, delivering a timeless aesthetic while avoiding the common challenges of traditional clay. Produced in the third generation company’s state-of-the-art facilities using Enduur 1 advanced concrete technology, Heathfield offers enhanced strength, durability, UV resistance, and hydrophobic performance. Two teardrop-shaped perforations also enhance density and structural strength compared with traditional three-holed bricks. With water absorption around 6% much lower than clay’s 15-20%, and no soluble salts in the mix, Heathfield significantly reduces the risk of efflorescence on site. Cured with renewable energy, the range is more consistent in size than traditional clay, creating uniform bedding joints, sharper finishes, and quicker, more reliable installation while avoiding the uneven joints caused by warped, energy-intensive kiln-fired bricks. Sustainably produced using aggregates from AG’s own quarry, including limestone to enrich colour, the range delivers consistent tones throughout each brick. Currently offered in six traditional colourways, with more planned, the collection provides architects and developers with flexible design options across housing, education and commercial projects. Building on the success of AG’s Woodward bricks, named Responsible Product of the Year 2025 by Business in the Community, Heathfield delivers the same innovative, high-performance qualities as an alternative to traditional clay bricks. Backed by a 60-year guarantee, Heathfield is produced locally in the UK, with typical lead times of just three to five working days, giving builders and specifiers confidence even in unpredictable markets. With energy prices and global supply chains under pressure, many construction materials face significant risk. AG’s low-energy, UK-based manufacturing avoids that exposure, ensuring reliable supply, consistent quality, and a partner customers can trust for the long term. The newly launched range is also part of AG’s broader portfolio of building products, including paving and walling solutions, providing specifiers and developers with a complete, one-stop solution for external materials. Commenting on the launch, AG CEO Stephen Acheson said: “The success of our Woodward range proved that concrete bricks can genuinely compete with, and in many cases outperform, traditional clay. Heathfield builds on that momentum and represents a further step forward in how the industry thinks about brick.” “We set out to create a product that delivers the character and warmth of clay while removing many of the challenges that developers, specifiers and bricklayers experience on site. Every detail has been carefully engineered, informed by close collaboration with the people who use our products day in, day out.” “As the market continues to rethink material choices in light of cost, availability and sustainability pressures, Heathfield offers a confident alternative. We believe products like this will play an increasingly important role in the future of construction, and we are proud to be leading that shift.” Samples of the Heathfield range are now available. For further information, visit ag.uk.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bricklaying students visited Bellway’s Roe Wood Park development in Harold Hill to get an insight into work on a construction site. The 10 students, who are all studying for their Level 1 Bricklaying qualification at New City College, were welcomed by Bellway Senior Site Manager David Barden. The visit took placeon Friday 20 March and included talks from Bellway staff and contractors GSQ Brickwork, as well as a tour of the site and the chance to have a go at bricklaying. Roe Wood Park is a joint venture with Mercury Land Holdings, a wholly owned company of Havering Council. The 120-home project is redeveloping the former Quarles Campus of Havering College – now part of New City College – and the sale of the site provided funding towards the college’s Specialist Construction and Engineering Centre at Rainham. David said: “As a company, we are very much focused on providing opportunities for young people to gain the skills and experience they need to progress in their careers, and developing the skilled workforce we need as a business now and into the future. “It was a pleasure to welcome this group of young people to Roe Wood Park and give them an insight into what the job of a bricklayer looks like on a live construction site, where we are building homes at scale. “It is particularly rewarding to be welcoming students who are benefitting from the state-of-the-art facilities on the Rainham Construction and Engineering campus, which was supported by the regeneration of the former Quarles Campus site. “This is all part of our commitment to the local community – to not only provide high-quality housing, but also create jobs and invest in local infrastructure and facilities.” Jane Nugent, Work Related Curriculum Advisor at New City College, said: “Our Brick students learnt so much whilst at Roe Wood Park– they came out of there beaming, and for most of them it was the first time they had used real cement. Bellway’s Senior Site Manager David Barden was so informative, and we truly appreciate the opportunity.” When complete, Roe Wood Park will comprise 53 houses and apartments for private sale, including a mix of one, two and three-bedroom properties, 47 affordable homes for low-cost rent or shared ownership and 20 new homes for private rent. As part of the planning agreement for the development, the aim is for 20 per cent of people working on site to be residents of Havering or neighbouring boroughs. More information about career opportunities with Bellway can be found at https://www.bellwaycareers.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Eversheds Sutherland (International) is pleased to announce that it has made 25 partner promotions with effect from 1 May 2026. 40% of Eversheds Sutherland’s new partners are female. The latest round of promotions includes two construction lawyers based within the firms Litigation & Dispute Management practice group, underlining the firm’s ongoing investment into its construction offering. Those promoted are Ray Hetherington (Birmingham) and James Molland (Cardiff). Keith Froud, Chief Executive, Eversheds Sutherland (International) commented: “Our newly promoted partners exemplify exceptional talent, deep client commitment and market-leading capability. Together, they reinforce our position as a firm that is powerful globally, strong locally, delivering seamless support to clients wherever they operate. “My congratulations go to our 2026 cohort on this well-earned achievement for their outstanding contribution to our clients and our firm.” Eversheds Sutherland – Partner promotions 2026: Practice group Partners Corporate Finance Chris Archer, Corporate (London) Adite Aloke, Corporate (Dubai) Faris Al-Louzi, Corporate (Riyadh) Thomas Howell, Corporate (Leeds) Griff Jones, Corporate (Leeds) Thomas Plant, Corporate (Birmingham) Rob Worsfold, Corporate (Birmingham) Commercial Advisory Thomas Farkas, Commercial (Munich) Lisa Highet, Commercial (Nottingham) Teresa Pessoa e Costa, Commercial (Lisbon) Robbert Santifort, Commercial (Rotterdam) Employment Labor & Pensions Laura D’Arcy, Employment (Manchester) James Ellis, Pensions (Birmingham) Jen Green, Pensions (Cardiff) Sarah Lown, Pensions (Manchester) Taoufik Yekhlef, Employment (Rotterdam) Litigation & Dispute Management Ray Hetherington, Construction (Birmingham) Angharad Hurle, Commercial Dispute Resolution (Cardiff) Mostafa Ihab, Commercial Dispute Resolution (Riyadh) Philip Kiossev, Commercial Litigation (Sofia) Karen Mitchell, Real Estate Litigation (London) James Molland, Construction (Cardiff) Real Estate Emma George, Core Real Estate (Dubai) Fiona Hammett, Core Real Estate (Cardiff) Chris Mullings, Core Real Estate (London) In December 2025, Eversheds Sutherland (US) announced the promotion of six attorneys to partner, which took effect on 1 January 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects WORKING together to uncover the sector’s brightest and boldest ideas, UKREiiF and strategic marketing agency Cartwright have revealed the shortlist for the ‘One Big Idea’ initiative. Nearly 100 entries were received from across the built environment, with submissions showcasing exciting new ideas, concepts and ways of thinking. The ‘One Big Idea’ initiative aims to give property and construction specialists the opportunity to make their mark and push the sector forward. It was open to entries from any level of seniority or experience. Making the final shortlist are ideas from Kuram Gwakyaa, head of sustainability for Home Office and MOJ accounts at Mitie; Sally Grindrod-Smith, director of planning regeneration and communities at West Lindsey District Council and Matt Drewitt, architect at the Government Property Agency. The three shortlisted ideas include focuses on the reduction of carbon, supporting the next generation and solving viability gaps for projects. Further insight into the ideas will be shared at the Big Idea Breakfast at UKREiiF on Wednesday 20 May Liz Cartwright, managing director at Cartwright and shortlist judge, said: “Our One Big Idea initiative was created to champion new and purposeful thinking from those in the industry. Across all submissions received there is no doubt that this kind of thinking was showcased in abundance. “Our shortlisted ideas demonstrate not only originality but a true potential to move the industry forward. Each one is not a concept for its own sake but is grounded in real challenges and real opportunities. Offering space for these ideas to flourish is exactly what we here at Cartwright, in partnership with UKREiiF, have set out to do.” The wider judging panel that took on the task of reviewing the ideas submitted and creating a shortlist, included James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF; Renee Preston, chief executive officer at Gallaway Construction; Shahi Islam, director of affordable housing at Homes England; and Rory Bates, built environment sector lead at SLR Consulting. The judging criteria was chosen to help highlight the most powerful submissions. This included marking ideas on their creativity and originality, impact and value, and clarity of the idea. Following the Big Idea Breakfast event, Cartwright will also be releasing a ‘One Big Idea’ report for the wider market, telling the stories of the winning entrants and sharing a wider selection of One Big Idea suggestions – including additional insights gathered from its on-site presence at the event. James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF said: “UKREiiF has always been a place where ideas on how to grow and better the industry have the space to flourish. One Big Idea is allowing us to take this to the next level and there is no doubt that the results so far have been incredible. All the ideas submitted showcase vital thinking from different levels and experience on how the industry can grow to new heights and it’s safe to say that shortlisting to just three was no easy job. “As the countdown to UKREiiF ticks down, seeing the three shortlisted ideas come to life at the One Big Idea breakfast is one of many parts of those three days in Leeds that our team here are looking forward to most – alongside generating those important conversations that will foster even more ideas for what’s next for the industry.” The initiative forms the newest era of the partnership, as Cartwright takes on the role of official storytelling partner for UKREiiF 2026, as part of a year-round agreement. For more information about Cartwright visit www.cartwrightagency.com or to register for UKREiiF 2026 go to www.ukreiif.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals