Harworth Group plc and Microsoft have taken a significant step forward at Skelton Grange in Leeds, after receiving a resolution to grant planning consent for a major data centre and industrial and logistics development. The scheme, located in West Yorkshire, will deliver a hyperscale data centre campus alongside supporting infrastructure,
Hammerson has secured outline planning consent for a major purpose built student accommodation scheme in Bristol, marking a significant step forward in the redevelopment of a key city centre site. The approval from Bristol City Council will enable the transformation of underutilised land at Cabot Gate, located adjacent to the
Commercial property developer Wykeland Group has submitted revised plans for a stylish new hotel in Hull city centre, under the Marriott group’s chic Moxy brand. Subject to planning approval, a £25m investment would see the hotel built opposite the city’s Connexin Live arena. Wykeland already has planning permission for a
Elderly residents at a sheltered housing complex in Rustington are getting together more frequently after a modern community hall was completed by Pilbeam Construction. Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said since the hall was officially opened residents have been leading busier social lives, attending quizzes, film nights and some even
Brymec, a leading manufacturer and supplier of future-proofed solutions to the M&E sector, recently provided end-to-end M&E infrastructure for Portal Way, North Acton, a large-scale, contemporary residential development in west London. An ambitious project from the outset, the specifications were extensive, with multiple mechanical systems running across the building, including
The team building the Northolt Tunnel for HS2 have reached a new milestone, completing the construction of 34 cross passages. Cross passages connect the northbound and southbound tunnel and are a safety feature which allows passengers to cross to the adjacent tunnel in the event of an emergency. The Northolt
Newmark has expanded its UK retail team with the appointment of Josh Braid as a director, reinforcing its capability in leasing, asset repositioning and retail led development advisory. In his new role, Braid will focus on delivering leasing strategies for landlords, while advising on the repositioning and activation of retail
Richard’s appointment as the Aviation Director further strengthens Ramboll’s growing offer in the aviation sector Global architecture, engineering, and sustainability consultancy Ramboll has today announced the appointment of Richard Graybrook as Aviation Lead for UK&I and Europe. In this role, Richard will lead Ramboll’s aviation business across the region with responsibility for major programmes and projects, driving innovation and embedding sustainability throughout project delivery. Richard brings extensive experience in the aviation sector, having led multi-disciplinary teams and managing complex operations. He has a strong track record in delivering long-term operational strategies, as well as identifying innovative ways to design, develop, and deliver new processes.
Independent housebuilder Dandara has appointed Nic Davenport as Divisional Finance Director for its housebuilding division, strengthening its leadership team as it pursues ambitious growth plans over the next five years. Davenport joins from Vistry Group, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, where he held a range of senior roles including
Harworth Group plc and Microsoft have taken a significant step forward at Skelton Grange in Leeds, after receiving a resolution to grant planning consent for a major data centre and industrial and logistics development. The scheme, located in West Yorkshire, will deliver a hyperscale data centre campus alongside supporting infrastructure, forming part of a wider regeneration and development strategy for the site. Full planning permission has been sought for approximately 500,000 sq ft of data centre space across three buildings, supported by ancillary facilities. In addition, outline consent has been granted for a further 160,000 sq ft of industrial and logistics accommodation, alongside electric vehicle charging infrastructure on an adjoining 16 acre plot. The development represents a key milestone in the ongoing partnership between Harworth and Microsoft, following the completion of the first phase of the land transaction in June 2024. This initial phase comprised the sale of 27 acres, with Harworth continuing to undertake site remediation and enabling works to prepare the land for development. A second phase, covering a further 21 acres, is also progressing, with additional value to be realised upon completion of the sale. The Skelton Grange scheme is expected to play a major role in driving regional economic growth, with the wider development estimated to generate around £4 billion of inward investment once fully delivered. The project also highlights the increasing demand for well located, power enabled land capable of supporting data centres and other energy intensive uses. Beyond the immediate scheme, Harworth retains further development capacity within the surrounding area, including adjacent land and its nearby Gateway 45 site. The company’s broader portfolio includes significant power connections, positioning it to capitalise on continued growth in the data centre sector and other high demand occupier markets. The resolution to grant planning consent underlines the strength of collaboration between the public and private sectors in delivering large scale, infrastructure led developments. It also reinforces the strategic importance of sites such as Skelton Grange in supporting the UK’s digital economy, while unlocking long term value through regeneration and investment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hammerson has secured outline planning consent for a major purpose built student accommodation scheme in Bristol, marking a significant step forward in the redevelopment of a key city centre site. The approval from Bristol City Council will enable the transformation of underutilised land at Cabot Gate, located adjacent to the Cabot Circus estate. The proposals allow for the delivery of up to 600 student accommodation units, alongside new public realm and community focused spaces, subject to detailed design and reserved matters approval. The scheme forms part of Hammerson’s wider strategy to unlock value from its landholdings while enhancing the quality and connectivity of its urban assets. Positioned at one of Bristol’s principal gateway locations, the development is expected to play an important role in strengthening links between surrounding neighbourhoods and the city centre. In addition to student accommodation, the outline plans include the creation of new green spaces, improved pedestrian and cycle routes and a multi purpose community pavilion. These elements are designed to support placemaking objectives and deliver a more integrated and accessible urban environment. The planning consent follows an extensive period of public consultation and engagement with local stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the council’s broader vision for the city. The project also builds on Hammerson’s ongoing investment in Bristol, including enhancement works at Quakers Friars and the continued repositioning of Cabot Circus as a leading retail and leisure destination in the South West. Jonatan Carlring, development director at Hammerson, described the approval as a key milestone for the site, highlighting the collaborative approach taken with the local authority and community. He noted that the scheme will deliver much needed accommodation while improving connectivity and creating high quality public spaces. The Cabot Gate development reflects the continued growth of the student accommodation sector in major regional cities, where demand remains strong and well located schemes are increasingly being integrated into wider mixed use regeneration strategies. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial property developer Wykeland Group has submitted revised plans for a stylish new hotel in Hull city centre, under the Marriott group’s chic Moxy brand. Subject to planning approval, a £25m investment would see the hotel built opposite the city’s Connexin Live arena. Wykeland already has planning permission for a hotel on the site. With Moxy now lined up, revised plans have been submitted to Hull City Council to meet the hotel brand’s specific requirements. The development is planned for next to the recently-restored Castle Buildings and former Earl de Grey pub, and delivery of the hotel would mark the completion of a transformative regeneration project across the wider site. Jonathan Stubbs, Development Director of Hull-based Wykeland, said: “We’re proud of our work to restore Castle Buildings and the Earl de Grey and the development of a Moxy hotel would complete this prominent development site, as well as being an impressive addition to the Hull skyline. “The hotel’s location, on the doorstep of the Connexin Live arena and close to Hull’s city centre, marina, Fruit Market and Old Town, make it the perfect location for both leisure and business visitors. “These revised plans ensure the building reflects the stylish Moxy brand. Approval of the planning application will pave the way for the development of a high-quality new hotel that the business community, the tourism and hospitality sectors, and visitors to Hull have been crying out for.” The revised plans are for a seven-storey hotel with 122 bedrooms. The ground floor would include a bar and food area, a gym and a relaxation space, and business section. The hotel would meet a pent-up demand for accommodation in the city centre. Independent market research commissioned by Wykeland found there are 100 nights every year when city centre hotel capacity is full, with potential visitors forced to stay outside of the city. It would be owned by Wykeland and operated by Legacy Hotel Management Services, which manages more than 25 hotels across the UK on behalf of developers, investors and property owners. Moxy is Marriott’s quirky, non-traditional brand, offering guests a buzzing, contemporary vibe. Guests are welcomed with a drink as they check in at the bar, with convenient food options available both in the bar and at a grab-and-go counter. Moxy hotels can be found in 130 locations in more than 25 countries, with each hotel designed with a unique theme reflecting the host city. In the UK, Moxy has hotels in major cities including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast. Internationally, Moxy can be found in the likes of Bangkok, Shanghai, Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Lisbon. Molly Turpie, Senior Manager, International Hotel Development, for Marriott International Hotels, said: “We’re excited at the prospect of creating a hotel that reflects the spirit of the city while delivering the high standards and global reach of Marriott International. “At Moxy, we believe hotels should be more than just a place to sleep – they should be social hubs, full of energy, creativity and personality. From check-in at the bar to buzzing communal spaces, the brand is all about creating memorable experiences at an accessible price point. “Hull’s independent spirit and cultural vibrancy make it a natural fit for Moxy, and we’re excited at the prospect of bringing something fresh, playful and distinctive to the city’s hospitality scene.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Elderly residents at a sheltered housing complex in Rustington are getting together more frequently after a modern community hall was completed by Pilbeam Construction. Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said since the hall was officially opened residents have been leading busier social lives, attending quizzes, film nights and some even had their own Christmas celebrations in the space. The original 1970s communal building had reached the end of its life and was replaced by the award-winning Booker Hall, which features sustainable design, vaulted ceilings, large skylights, a fully equipped kitchen and ample space for events. Sussex contractor Pilbeam delivered the scheme alongside architects Studio Scott Taylor for owner Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society, which said the new facilities are also providing an events space for the local community groups. The scheme was highly commended in the Sussex Heritage Trust Awards 2025 in the public and community category. Alan Corbett, managing director of Pilbeam Construction, said: “We worked closely with Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society to ensure a smooth process and a positive experience for everyone. “It’s great to hear how well used the hall has been since opening and that it’s helped to create a much stronger sense of community for residents who are enjoying socialising in a modern and brighter space.” The project included the demolition of an outdated communal hall, laundrette and office facilities and replacing them with a Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) framed hall, a modern laundrette, offices and new flats, all with sustainable design at their core. The new structures are energy efficient and purpose built, providing a warm, welcoming and modern design which is tailored for residents, the wider community and employees. Next to the hall, the laundrette offers a practical yet inviting environment, complete with a courtyard that allows for natural drying in good weather and a social space for residents located at the heart of the site. The timber frame and glue-laminated beams lean into the sustainable feel of the whole complex. Locally sourced flint, an element of locally sourced bricks and a zinc roof with concealed gutters ensure the buildings are not only visually appealing, but also environmentally sound. Emily Scott, director of Studio Scott Taylor, the project’s architectural firm, said: “From the outset we worked closely with the client team to nurture a project that incorporates their specific needs & creates welcoming spaces for staff and residents. “This project seamlessly integrates modern and traditional construction methods, making use of locally sourced materials, resulting in a unique civic building that enriches the local community and enhances the lives of those it serves. “The project has a strong emphasis on sustainability incorporating prefabricated timber construction methods, biodiverse planting and renewable energy sources. This includes solar panels, air source heat pumps and a natural ventilation strategy. At its heart, the project is designed to foster connections and promote the wellbeing of both residents and staff, reflecting a people-centred approach to architecture.” The communal spaces are available for hire by the wider Rustington community, creating an additional revenue stream for the housing society and strengthening local ties. The new office buildings provide employees with a collaborative workspace with large windows providing generous daylight and views to the surrounding planting. Sally Shepherd CEO Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said: “Since the communal hall officially opened, our residents have been holding a number of events which is making them feel less isolated. “For those residents who do not have or do not see their friends and family very much they can become lonely – the new hall is helping them integrate with others on a much more regular basis.” Community groups and residents who want to hire the hall can find out more here: https://www.rustingtonhall.co.uk/ For further information visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Brymec, a leading manufacturer and supplier of future-proofed solutions to the M&E sector, recently provided end-to-end M&E infrastructure for Portal Way, North Acton, a large-scale, contemporary residential development in west London. An ambitious project from the outset, the specifications were extensive, with multiple mechanical systems running across the building, including drainage, water, waste and pressure-regulated pipework. It demanded a technical partner involved from the earliest stages. Brymec, which has decades of experience working within high-rise structures, was appointed at the design stage to provide mechanical systems support, joining the project team from the first design review and providing support from specification through to on-site delivery. Early involvement makes a difference Brymec’s involvement began long before any pipe was laid. The team worked through early design reviews, shaping the drainage specification and advising on cast iron drainage systems suited to the building’s requirements. Multiple technical take-offs followed, with Brymec checking drawings, identifying potential issues and recommending the right M&E pipework and fittings across water, waste and pressure-regulated systems. Brymec approached the project as a technical consultancy as much as a supplier. Working as a material-agnostic partner, the team assessed each system on its merits, advising on material compatibility across drainage, water and waste systems and matching products and specifications to the building’s specific requirements. Recommendations were driven by performance, giving the contractor confidence at every stage. Carter Cowley, Key Accounts Manager, Brymec, said: “We were involved in the project from the outset, supporting the initial design conversations through to take-offs, onsite reviews and ongoing technical decisions. That kind of early engagement means problems get solved before they become costly on site. It’s the way we work.” Supporting prefabricated bathroom pods Prefabrication is an increasingly common feature of large-scale residential construction, used to reduce on-site labour demands and improve programme certainty. Portal Way was no exception. One of the more complex elements of the project involved prefabricated pods, including bathroom, shower and utility modules, assembled off-site before delivery. Brymec managed the prefabrication supply chain directly, supplying mechanical components to the prefabrication partners and ensuring everything arrived correctly specified and ready to install. The team then carried out on-site installation reviews as the completed pods were fitted into the building. That level of end-to-end support, from early specification through to installation checks, helped reduce labour demands on-site and kept the build programme on track. Having a single technical team backing the project meant the contractor had one consistent point of contact, regardless of which system or component they needed guidance on. Controlled delivery, consistent quality Delivery was managed through the Brymec Breeze supply model, giving the contractor the certainty of on-time, in-full delivery aligned to the project programme. Products arrived when they were needed, correctly specified and ready to install. The consistency of product quality meant installation teams could work without disruption, with components that fitted first time and required no reworking on-site. That reliability reduced site storage pressures and kept the programme moving. Throughout the project, Brymec adapted as new drawings arrived and the scope evolved. The technical team stayed close, monitoring updates and advising on any implications for the systems already specified. Adam Habib, Project Manager, CJ O’Shea, adds: “Brymec were with us from the start. They understood the project and what we were trying to achieve. When issues came up, we knew exactly who to call and they always had a practical answer.” A trusted partner across the full project For M&E contractors working on complex residential schemes, Portal Way is a clear example of what integrated mechanical systems support looks like in practice: a single technical team, embedded from design stage, delivering certainty from the first drawing to the final installation. To find out more about how Brymec can support your next project, visit here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The team building the Northolt Tunnel for HS2 have reached a new milestone, completing the construction of 34 cross passages. Cross passages connect the northbound and southbound tunnel and are a safety feature which allows passengers to cross to the adjacent tunnel in the event of an emergency. The Northolt Tunnel is 8.4 miles long, running underground between West Ruislip Victoria Road in Ealing, west London – just outside HS2’s Old Oak Common station. At its deepest point, the tunnel is 35 metres below ground. The tunnel was constructed using four tunnel boring machines (TBMs) and the excavation was finished in June 2025. Following completion of the cross-passages, engineers will turn to the installation of reinforced concrete secondary collars, which will form the permanent openings for cross passage doors and enable the installation of permanent fire-rated sliding doors. It is expected that all structural works on the tunnel – the second longest on the 140-mile route between London and the West Midlands – will be completed later this year. The tunnel will then be readied for installation of the rail systems such as tracks and overhead power in the coming years. Malcolm Codling, Project Client for HS2 Ltd, said: “The progress made to construct the Northolt Tunnel demonstrates the commitment of our teams to deliver this vital infrastructure efficiently and safely. “Completing the construction of the cross passages is an important step towards finishing the civil engineering on the tunnel which will allow us to ultimately begin rail systems work including laying track.” The connections have been made using a spray concrete lining (SCL) mining technique where the team methodically cuts through the ground between the two tunnel bores. The distance between the two tunnel bores ranges from 6metres to 20metres. The work is carried out using mini-excavators, and every metre of earth cut is supported with sprayed concrete lining while the cross-passage slowly takes shape. Once the team has completed the lined tunnel, a water-proof membrane is installed followed by a secondary concrete lining. 11 of the cross passages were constructed using a ground freezing technique. This method was adopted due the presence of water bearing soils with a high-water table present in the ground in the western section of the tunnel. The methodology required the team to insert freeze pipes through special tunnel segments to create a 2m thick freeze wall to stabilise the ground before excavation could take place. HS2’s London Tunnels Contractor is Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture (SCS JV). They are responsible for the main works civils construction of HS2 between Hillingdon and Camden, bringing the HS2 line into Euston. Dave Hannon, Tunnels & Routeway Director from SCS JV said: “The completion of all 34 cross passages along the Northolt Tunnel marks another important step forward for the programme, demonstrating consistent progress across multiple work fronts and the coordinated effort of our teams working deep beneath London. “With this phase complete, we can progress on the next stage of works on the tunnel, with safety and productivity at the forefront.” Booth Industries in Bolton are manufacturing the doors for all the tunnels across the HS2 route. With high-speed trains passing within metres of the doors, they will be capable of withstanding constant 14Kpa pressure cycles, along with 2hr Integrity and 2hr Insulation against fire – a world first and setting a new benchmark within the industry. They are being manufactured using majority UK made steel. While the completion of the cross passages for the Northolt Tunnel demonstrates progress on the HS2 route, there is still a vast amount of work to do across the 140-mile route between London and Birmingham. Mark Wild, HS2 Ltd Chief Executive, is leading a comprehensive reset of the project to ensure the remainder of the route is delivered as efficiently as possible and for the lowest reasonable cost. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Newmark has expanded its UK retail team with the appointment of Josh Braid as a director, reinforcing its capability in leasing, asset repositioning and retail led development advisory. In his new role, Braid will focus on delivering leasing strategies for landlords, while advising on the repositioning and activation of retail and leisure destinations. His remit will also include supporting clients in enhancing asset performance and driving long term portfolio value across a range of retail and mixed use schemes. Braid joins from Knight Frank, where he led the Central London retail agency team alongside the firm’s cross border retail operations. With more than 15 years of experience, he has advised landlords, occupiers and investors across London and wider European markets. His track record includes leading leasing strategies on high profile developments such as The Old War Office and Knightsbridge Gate, as well as securing flagship lettings along Oxford Street for brands including Krispy Kreme and Samsonite. This experience is expected to support Newmark’s continued growth within the retail and leisure sector, particularly as landlords seek to reposition assets in response to evolving consumer behaviour. David Harper, head of UK retail at Newmark, said the appointment adds significant market expertise to the business, particularly in navigating complex retail environments and unlocking value across major schemes. Braid added that Newmark’s integrated platform, combining specialist knowledge with global reach, positions the firm strongly to support clients as retail destinations continue to evolve. He highlighted the importance of adapting leasing strategies and asset management approaches to reflect changing occupier and consumer demands. Newmark’s UK retail team advises a wide range of clients, with recent mandates including Bodycare, Crew Clothing and Accessorize. As part of a global retail network offering end to end advisory services, the firm continues to expand its presence and strengthen its position across international markets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Richard’s appointment as the Aviation Director further strengthens Ramboll’s growing offer in the aviation sector Global architecture, engineering, and sustainability consultancy Ramboll has today announced the appointment of Richard Graybrook as Aviation Lead for UK&I and Europe. In this role, Richard will lead Ramboll’s aviation business across the region with responsibility for major programmes and projects, driving innovation and embedding sustainability throughout project delivery. Richard brings extensive experience in the aviation sector, having led multi-disciplinary teams and managing complex operations. He has a strong track record in delivering long-term operational strategies, as well as identifying innovative ways to design, develop, and deliver new processes. Following service in the British Army, he later transitioned to the private sector, holding a series of senior leadership roles, most recently at Jacobs helping to grow their aviation business across Europe. In his role as Aviation Director at Ramboll, Richad will draw on this experience to build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders across the sector. He will apply his sector experience and leadership skills to drive innovation, challenge conventional thinking to deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions, playing a key role in advancing Ramboll’s ambition to act as the partner for sustainable change to its clients across the aviation market. Commenting on Richard’s appointment, Neil Sansbury, Managing Director UK&I, Ramboll, said: “Richard’s experience in leadership roles in the aviation industry speaks for itself and I am confident that he will play a significant role in further strengthening Ramboll’s presence across the aviation sector, a priority area for the business. He joins at an exciting time for our aviation business, and I’m pleased to welcome him to lead the team and support our ambitious growth plans. Sustainability is central to everything we do at Ramboll, and I am particularly encouraged by Richard’s focus on reinforcing our role as a partner for sustainable change for our aviation clients. Richard Graybrook, Aviation Director, Ramboll, added: “Leading the Aviation team at Ramboll is an exciting opportunity with a huge potential for future growth. Ramboll has an excellent track record in aviation, and I look forward to building on this success by growing the business and the team. My priorities are to support my colleagues in delivering successful, innovative, and sustainable programmes to the highest standards.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Independent housebuilder Dandara has appointed Nic Davenport as Divisional Finance Director for its housebuilding division, strengthening its leadership team as it pursues ambitious growth plans over the next five years. Davenport joins from Vistry Group, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, where he held a range of senior roles including Divisional Finance Director of the West Division. He began his career as an auditor at Deloitte, working with clients such as Taylor Wimpey. In his new role at Dandara, Nic will oversee the financial performance of the company’s national housebuilding business, which hopes to double its turnover to £1bn by 2031. He will support regional growth across the division, including regional expansion and strategic land acquisitions, while helping ensure the business remains efficient and resilient in the rapidly evolving market. Based in Dandara’s Milton Keynes head office, Nic said: “Working for Dandara is an honour for me as the company embodies the values I believe a housebuilder should have – a passion for building excellence and customer service, alongside a strong commitment to the communities it serves. “Much of Dandara’s success is down to the fact that it doesn’t operate like an anonymous corporation, the business is structured to give autonomy to regional management teams who know their own local markets best. That ensures that the homes that are delivered in each region genuinely reflect the needs of local buyers. I’m looking forward to spending time across the regions, supporting the teams as the business continues to grow. “While market conditions are currently challenging for the industry, housebuilding is inherently cyclical. Our focus will be on ensuring we are well-positioned to respond quickly and take advantage of future opportunities when they arise.” He added that he is also looking forward to helping grow the Partnerships side of the business to help meet the increasing demand for affordable and mixed tenure housing across the UK, and to address the acute housing shortage. Trevor Dempsey, CEO at Dandara, added: “Nic brings with him strong financial and operational experience from across the housebuilding sector, that makes him a valuable addition to the team. His experience gives him an insight into the day-to-day challenges of a housebuilding business, that goes far beyond the balance sheets. “He has an important role to play as we continue to grow the company and strengthen our delivery across private sale, affordable housing and Partnerships. His expertise will be instrumental in helping us take the business to the next level, while ensuring we remain firmly grounded in the core values that define who we are.” For more information, please visit www.dandara.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals