The ambitious goal of becoming the world’s first climate-neutral specialty glass manufacturer by 2030 is being followed by the next mission: SCHOTT also wants to lead the way as a pioneer in the transition to a circular economy. The technology Group has launched its first recycling projects in order to
ASSA ABLOY Door Group, a leading provider of steel door solutions, is commending Barry Johnston, Production Manager at its Lisburn facility, for his long service and contribution to operational excellence. Barry joined Door Group in 2003 as part of the fabrication team, which gave him the foundation and skills needed
Chesterford Research Park will soon enhance its offering to the life science community in the Cambridge Cluster with a new, state-of-the-art multi-occupancy laboratory building. Glencar, recently ranked among Europe’s fastest-growing companies, has been selected by Chesterford Research Park, to build a new multi-occupancy, fully fitted laboratory and office building. The
McAleer & Rushe is thrilled to announce a new partnership with The Baytree Centre, a social inclusion charity, to support their mission to improve the lives of women and girls. The Baytree Centre is an educational charity for women and girls, based in the heart of Brixton, south London. An integral
Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS) has completed the roll out of five new branches in just one month – its biggest expansion project to date. Throughout April, JPS launched the stores in collaboration with a variety of social housing providers located across the UK, having secured a wealth of new contracts.
A dream came true for Wates Group Chairman Tim Wates, when he took to the turf of his beloved Crystal Palace Football Club at Selhurst Park. Tim was playing for the Wates football team along with David Morgan, Executive Managing Director, in a tournament to support the Cut It Out
The construction and real estate industries are playing a pivotal role in revolutionizing memory care, offering state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the quality of life for individuals living with memory-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By integrating innovative design and building practices, we can create environments that not only
GMI Construction Group has marked a significant milestone in the delivery of the North East’s first Dakota Hotel by hosting a steel signing ceremony. The erection of the steel marks a crucial phase in the transformation of the vacant St Anne’s Wharf building on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside into a 118-room
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published its latest set of horizon scans, spotlighting trends in global population change that will shape society and the built environment over the next ten years. Shifting patterns in births, deaths and migration are reshaping communities. The world faces ageing populations, swelling
BRISTOL: The redevelopment of a 2.5-acre site in the heart of Bristol has reached a key milestone after main contractor Winvic Construction Ltd celebrated topping out at the mixed-used Redcliff Quarter scheme. Grainger plc, the UK’s largest listed residential landlord, announced in 2022 that it had exchanged conditional contracts to
The ambitious goal of becoming the world’s first climate-neutral specialty glass manufacturer by 2030 is being followed by the next mission: SCHOTT also wants to lead the way as a pioneer in the transition to a circular economy. The technology Group has launched its first recycling projects in order to gain important experience. Together with pilot customers and partners, SCHOTT is systematically exploring ways to return used glass-ceramic cooktop panels and pharmaceutical packaging to the production of new products. Besides the technical challenges, it is primarily the lack of a legal framework that stands in the way of a circular economy. Up until now, there have been no special regulations that allow specialty glass to be collected by type. SCHOTT is taking the lead in this area and would first like to provide technical proof with the pilot projects: The recycling of used materials would also be possible on a large scale. “SCHOTT is continuing its transformation into a sustainable company. That is why we have now launched our first projects to enter the circular economy. We intend to recycle used specialty glass and glass-ceramics and thus preserve and reuse valuable raw materials – in line with the goals of the EU Green Deal,” explains Dr. Jörn Besinger, who coordinates the international technology Group’s circular projects. With the Green Deal, the European Union is striving for a sustainable Europe that protects the climate, the environment and resources, avoids waste and recycles valuable raw materials. This is also aimed at reducing dependence on raw materials from other regions of the world. One key to this is to transform the current linear economy, which is geared towards the single use of products, into a circular economy. To achieve this, products must be made recyclable through recycling and the appropriate specifications. Internal recycling loop for decadesSCHOTT can also make a significant contribution to this because glass is generally quite easy to recycle. Specialty glass and glass-ceramics can also be returned to the material cycle rather easily. For decades, the specialty glass manufacturer has been using cullet as a raw material for production, thereby avoiding waste, conserving resources, and reducing energy consumption and emissions. More than 90 percent of the glass cullet is returned to the glass melt in the internal recycling loop. In some cases, SCHOTT also collects broken glass and broken glass cuttings from customers. To do so, however, all material must be absolutely sorted by type. Recycling makes it possible to recover valuable raw materials. For example, the coveted but scarce light metal lithium, which is also required for electric car batteries, is an important component of glass-ceramic cooktop panels. The potential to keep lithium in the cycle is correspondingly high if old cooktop panels can be disposed of responsibly. The challenge of meltingEven though glass is generally quite easy to recycle, there are also technical challenges here. Glass-ceramics and specialty glass have higher quality requirements than “normal” container or flat glass, as we know it from bottles or windows: they must be melted at significantly higher temperatures and the absorption of recycled material and the evaluation of the quality has not been researched that much so far. SCHOTT is also still at the beginning here, but now wants to gain important insights with the pilot projects and set the course for the transition to a circular economy. As already mentioned, however, the legal framework still needs to be created for this: In Germany and at the EU level, for example, there are still no legal requirements for the separate collection of specialty glass. Glass-ceramic cooktop panels are not separated from cooking appliances either, but rather collected together with other appliances in recycling centers and later shredded elsewhere. Important raw materials such as lithium are irretrievably lost in the process. According to SCHOTT’s calculations, around three million glass-ceramic cooktop panels and thus 10,000 tons of glass-ceramic will end up in landfills in Germany in 2030 alone. “We are appealing to German and European politicians to establish better framework conditions for a functioning circular economy, as envisaged by the EU Green Deal and the German government’s National Circular Economy Strategy,” explains Dr. Frank Heinricht, Chairman of the Board of Management of SCHOTT AG and responsible for sustainability throughout the Group. Recycling pilots: Cooktops and pharmaceutical glassOf the two hurdles – technological development and framework legislation – SCHOTT now intends to tackle the technical side with its pilot projects. SCHOTT has been a pioneer for decades when it comes to innovation with its CERAN® glass-ceramic cooktop panels – a claim that is also being met in the area of sustainability. The company is setting up a new recycling cycle with pilot customers and partners from the waste management industry to recycle glass-ceramic from used cooktops. Glass-ceramic from old household appliances or broken glass-ceramic from assembly, freed from electronics and housings, will be delivered to SCHOTT. Once a sufficient quantity of material has been collected, extensive technical tests will follow to prove that the recycled material can be integrated into new glass-ceramic cooktops without compromising quality. A pilot project is also underway in the field of tubing, in which glass tubing is produced for pharmaceutical packaging. A major healthcare company is returning unused vials for medicines to SCHOTT. As cullet, these can then be fed back into the glass melt to supplement the raw materials from which new, high-quality glass tubing is produced. These can then be reprocessed into pharmaceutical vials that meet the highest quality standards. “In order to make progress in the circular economy, we are currently examining which product groups are worth setting up recycling systems for. To this end, we are inviting our customers to develop product-specific solutions together with us. We thus want to gradually increase the share of recycled raw materials in our industry,” says Dr. Jörn Besinger. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
ASSA ABLOY Door Group, a leading provider of steel door solutions, is commending Barry Johnston, Production Manager at its Lisburn facility, for his long service and contribution to operational excellence. Barry joined Door Group in 2003 as part of the fabrication team, which gave him the foundation and skills needed to progress within the company through various roles, culminating in his current position as Production Manager. In this role, he oversees the day-to-day production of steel doors, schedules, production meetings and leads a thriving workforce. Throughout his career, Barry has been involved with numerous initiatives and has successfully navigated the company through significant challenges, including the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond achieving operational excellence, Barry has played a pivotal role in fostering cohesive and successful teams while instilling a culture of collaboration and innovation within Door Group. Indeed, Barry has been instrumental in the development and implementation of many new products. Reflecting on his long service with Door Group, Barry said: “I’m struck by how far I’ve come since joining. It’s been an incredible learning experience, navigating through various roles and responsibilities to reach where I am today. “Witnessing the industry evolve and embracing technological advancements along the way has been truly rewarding. These innovations have not only streamlined our processes but have also challenged me to adapt and grow, to help our business stay ahead in an ever-changing industry. “I’ve seen transformations that have gone from manual processes to cutting-edge technology and looking ahead, I’m excited to continue driving this progress.” Brian Sofley, Managing Director of Door Group, said: “Barry’s forward-thinking approach and ability to embrace technological advancements has enabled us to stay ahead of the curve and deliver value to our customers, while at the same time strengthening internal teams and culture.” To learn more about ASSA ABLOY Door Group and the range of products and services it provides, go to https://www.assaabloy.com/uk/en. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Chesterford Research Park will soon enhance its offering to the life science community in the Cambridge Cluster with a new, state-of-the-art multi-occupancy laboratory building. Glencar, recently ranked among Europe’s fastest-growing companies, has been selected by Chesterford Research Park, to build a new multi-occupancy, fully fitted laboratory and office building. The 60,000 sq ft, three-storey building set within the Park’s superb 250-acre parkland environment is set to meet burgeoning demand within the Cambridge life sciences cluster. The Sidney Sussex building will accommodate a mix of laboratory and office space in its multi-occupier design. Intended to meet both current and future needs, the facility will offer flexible suites ranging from 2,226 sq ft to 8,409 sq ft within a beautifully landscaped setting, encouraging both the expansion of existing businesses and the attraction of new enterprises. Designed by architect BCRI, the building allows for the combination of spaces to accommodate larger requirements. Features include open-plan write-up/admin areas, benching, lifts, storage rooms, and shower facilities, centred around a communal, light-filled atrium with a dedicated reception area. Sustainability is at the core of the design, with renewable energy sources, efficient structural uses, and daylighting strategies to minimise carbon emissions. Ecological enhancements will include significant tree planting, bird and bat boxes, and a new pond, promoting biodiversity and offering green spaces for occupiers. Construction began at the end of May with project completion anticipated by October 2025. Glencar CEO Eddie McGillycuddy expressed enthusiasm about the project: “We are absolutely delighted to be part of Chesterford’s ambitious expansion plans. This project is not only a testament to our growing expertise in life sciences construction but also a significant addition to our portfolio, following other successful projects we have delivered and are delivering currently at Harwell Science and Innovation Campus.” Julian Cobourne, Head of Regional Investment Management at Aviva Investors, added: “We are pleased to continue progress in the creation of the Sidney Sussex Building, which will significantly enhance the breadth and depth of facilities at Chesterford Research Park. We believe this will reinforce the Park’s reputation as a leading location for some of the leading global names in life science, enabling our existing community to continue growing here whilst also attracting new occupiers. We are pleased to play a part in supporting the UK life science sector and continuing to invest into the Cambridgeshire region.” Chesterford Research Park, co-owned by Aviva Investors and Uttlesford District Council and advised by Savills and Cheffins, continues to be a hub for innovation, home to companies like Arecor, AstraZeneca, and Illumina. For more information, visit https://www.chesterfordresearchpark.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
McAleer & Rushe is thrilled to announce a new partnership with The Baytree Centre, a social inclusion charity, to support their mission to improve the lives of women and girls. The Baytree Centre is an educational charity for women and girls, based in the heart of Brixton, south London. An integral part of the community since 1991, they provide holistic support through personal development activities and workshops, mentoring, coaching, as well as English classes and integration support for newly arrived migrants and refugees. Through corporate partnerships with businesses such as McAleer & Rushe, it can develop purposeful programmes focusing on education, training and employability skills to raise aspirations and provide opportunities for disadvantaged young girls and women from low socio-economic backgrounds. Through its construction work at the Southbank Place development, delivering 92 residential apartments and retail space, the Design & Build contractor is supporting the Baytree Centre through various fundraising initiatives and educational programmes. Led by Daisy Butterworth, Assistant Project Manager on Southbank Place, the company will be hosting employability and careers events, and offering work experience placements on site over the Summer. To date, the project team have carried out a collection drive for stationary and sweet treats which were distributed to Baytree’s after school groups earlier in Easter and just this week, carried out repairs and refurbishments to the centre. McAleer & Rushe also hosted a BBQ fundraiser on site to raise funds for the charity. This corporate partnership will last throughout the construction programme of Southbank Place, targeted to complete in Q3 2025. Michael Yohanis, Contracts Director at McAleer & Rushe said: “We are proud to be working with The Baytree Centre to develop educational programmes and provide much-needed funding support that will help them continue their empowering mission to support young girls and women from low socio-economic backgrounds. Our teams are passionate about promoting the opportunities in the Construction industry for women and providing all young people with the tools and insights to fulfil their potential. With special thanks to our project manager, Daisy for leading this partnership, we are excited to continue working closely with the Baytree team and look forward to hosting educational events onsite and at the Centre.” Carmen Gonzalez, Development Director at The Baytree Centre said: “We are delighted to welcome McAleer & Rushe on board as a corporate partner. Their support will be instrumental in creating meaningful building blocks to empower the young girls and women with educational and employability support. Together, we can help them build a bright future for themselves, their families and their communities.” For more information about The Baytree Centre and their work, visit The Baytree Centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Jewson Partnership Solutions (JPS) has completed the roll out of five new branches in just one month – its biggest expansion project to date. Throughout April, JPS launched the stores in collaboration with a variety of social housing providers located across the UK, having secured a wealth of new contracts. The new sites will provide services for a wide range of social landlords including Wheatley Homes East, Home Group, Saxon Weald and Settle Group. The stores provide operatives from the various groups with access to JPS’ hand-selected range of products that are identified as key to the specific housing associations’ building and maintenance requirements. They will support thousands of residents in receiving better housing services, homes, and communities. In addition, JPS has launched a ‘spoke’ branch of its AVAIL Housing Hub in Newburn, Newcastle, as part of a new contract with Newcastle City Council, to reduce the typical amount of travel associated with operatives’ building and maintenance material collections. Newcastle City Council, along with several other housing associations working with JPS, have been provided access to AVAIL, JPS’ automated replenishment technology which ensures stock levels are always maintained and materials can be accessed by customers out of hours. JPS’ largest expansion project prior to this, was 11 new branches opening over the space of 12 months in 2022. This latest roll out, the business says, reflects its position in the marketplace, and demonstrates the growing demand for its valuable and well-refined service delivery. An additional 11 managed branches will also open by the end of September, further cementing JPS’ support of housing associations across the country. Scott Cooper, Managing Director of JPS, said: “Public sector bodies like councils and housing associations are some of the most hard-pressed businesses when it comes to identifying potential time and cash savings. They need to prove they’re taking all the steps possible to make their operations as efficient and effective as they can be. “Our branches have been designed specifically with this in mind. They act as a one-stop-shop for operatives to access all the relevant and necessary materials for the specific maintenance requirements of their sites. The surge in demand for our managed stores in recent years speaks for itself: we’re getting it right, and the exponential growth that we’re enjoying as a business doesn’t appear to be stopping anytime soon, as we have a further 11 stores to open before the final quarter of the year. “Opening five new stores in the space of a month was a challenge we faced head on, because we knew the truly immeasurable difference it would make to the businesses we’re working with. We hope to build further on these new relationships in the future, supporting our partners to keep residents safe, secure, and comfortable in their homes.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A dream came true for Wates Group Chairman Tim Wates, when he took to the turf of his beloved Crystal Palace Football Club at Selhurst Park. Tim was playing for the Wates football team along with David Morgan, Executive Managing Director, in a tournament to support the Cut It Out knife crime prevention event, organised by the Palace for Life Foundation. Wates Group was the main sponsor of the day-long function aimed at reduction of knife crime in Croydon. It featured a wide range of supporting organisations, including the Metropolitan Police, Taking The Initiative and Off The Record. The Wates Group has close links with Croydon going back four generations of the Wates family to when Edward Wates founded the company in the South London borough 127 years ago. The development, building and property maintenance group supports a multitude of key social impact initiatives in Croydon, including Lives Not Knives, Be Inspired (formerly Gloves Not Gunz), the Croydon Apprenticeship Fair, the Zen Project for mental health, plus projects for planting vegetables in the grounds of sheltered housing, and providing food for the homeless. Playing at the back as a team anchor, Tim did not score on the night, but it was an ambition fulfilled, and as always, a Wates Team effort. ’The important thing is that we all win by helping to improve young people’s lives through creating safer communities in which they have more opportunities to prosper,’ said Tim. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The construction and real estate industries are playing a pivotal role in revolutionizing memory care, offering state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the quality of life for individuals living with memory-related conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By integrating innovative design and building practices, we can create environments that not only meet the physical needs of residents but also prioritize their overall well-being. Here, we explore how modern construction techniques and real estate development are transforming memory care. Designing Person-Centered Living Spaces Person-centered care is at the heart of memory care facility design. This approach involves creating spaces that reflect the unique needs and preferences of each resident. By focusing on personalized environments, memory care communities can offer tailored living spaces that foster autonomy and respect residents’ sense of identity. Thoughtfully designed rooms and common areas ensure comfort and promote self-worth. Therapeutic Design Elements Incorporating therapeutic elements into the design of memory care facilities is essential for enhancing cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social interaction. Buildings can feature art and music therapy rooms, reminiscence therapy areas, and sensory stimulation zones. These spaces are designed to engage residents in meaningful activities, maintaining their cognitive abilities and overall quality of life. Dementia-Friendly Architecture The physical environment significantly impacts the mood, behavior, and security of memory care residents. Modern construction practices emphasize dementia-friendly architecture, incorporating features like secure outdoor spaces, intuitive wayfinding cues, and familiar, homelike aesthetics. These elements create a supportive and safe environment, reducing anxiety and confusion for residents. Advanced Staff Training Facilities Effective memory care requires well-trained staff. Memory care communities are being built with dedicated training centers where staff can receive ongoing education on dementia care best practices, communication techniques, and strategies for managing challenging behaviors. These training facilities ensure that caregivers are knowledgeable and compassionate, providing the highest quality of care. Family-Friendly Spaces Family involvement is crucial in memory care. New memory care developments include spaces designed for family engagement and support, such as private meeting rooms, family counseling centers, and communal areas for family visits, offering a supportive environment for those seeking family counseling near me. These facilities provide resources and support services to help families navigate the challenges of memory loss, fostering a strong connection between residents and their loved ones. Integration of Smart Technology Advancements in technology are transforming memory care, and modern construction projects are integrating these innovations seamlessly. Smart building technologies, such as electronic health records, remote monitoring systems, and personalized cognitive stimulation programs, are incorporated into the infrastructure. These technologies enhance resident safety, improve communication, and promote overall well-being. Holistic Wellness Centers New memory care facilities often include holistic wellness centers that address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of residents. These centers offer yoga and meditation rooms, pet therapy areas, nutritional counseling spaces, and spiritual support facilities. By promoting overall health, these wellness programs enhance the quality of life for residents living with memory-related conditions. Multisensory Environments Multisensory enrichment is a key feature in modern memory care design. Facilities are built with spaces that provide multisensory experiences, such as aromatherapy rooms, horticulture therapy gardens, and therapeutic touch areas. These environments stimulate residents’ senses, evoking positive emotional responses and helping them connect with their surroundings. Community Integration and Accessibility Memory care facilities are increasingly being designed with community integration in mind. Developers are creating buildings that facilitate easy access to local attractions, cultural events, and community gatherings. This integration allows residents to maintain their independence and interests, staying connected to the wider community and enhancing their social interactions. Continuous Improvement in Facility Design Continuous quality improvement is essential in the construction and real estate development of memory care facilities. Developers and builders regularly evaluate and update design practices, incorporating feedback from residents, families, and staff, as well as adhering to the latest industry standards and best practices. This commitment ensures that facilities remain at the forefront of memory care innovation. At Vivante, we are dedicated to constructing innovative and compassionate memory care environments that prioritize the dignity, autonomy, and well-being of our residents. Our memory care facilities feature personalized living spaces, engaging therapeutic design elements, dementia-friendly architecture, and state-of-the-art technology. With a focus on holistic wellness and continuous quality improvement, we strive to build communities that enhance the quality of life for individuals living with memory-related conditions and provide peace of mind for their loved ones. Learn more about our memory care services and how our innovative construction and real estate practices can support your family’s unique needs at Vivante Living.
GMI Construction Group has marked a significant milestone in the delivery of the North East’s first Dakota Hotel by hosting a steel signing ceremony. The erection of the steel marks a crucial phase in the transformation of the vacant St Anne’s Wharf building on Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside into a 118-room luxury boutique hotel. Attended by key stakeholders and project team members, the ceremony highlighted the collaborative effort and commitment to excellence which defines the project. Dakota Hotel Newcastle will generate 150 new jobs and provide an additional 65,000 visitor nights per year – creating an estimated £1.5m boost to the local economy. Much of the building’s current features and details will be retained to complement its architectural heritage, with a number of exciting additions, including a new-look entrance lobby, reception and signature ground floor Bar & Grill. An existing courtyard is being reconfigured to create a vehicle drop off area, while the first floor will feature bedroom terraces. PV panels and Air Source Heat Pumps will be installed to provide renewable energy. Construction of Dakota Hotel Newcastle is on schedule, with completion anticipated for Spring 2025. The project sees GMI continue its strong relationship with developer Evans Property Group’s Dakota brand – having previously completed three Dakota Hotels in Manchester, Leeds, and Glasgow. The UK hotel chain, which also has hotels in Edinburgh and Motherwell, regularly welcomes celebrity guests. The building at 112 Quayside previously held a number of tenants, including law firm Womble Bond Dickinson. It had been based there since 1998 until relocating its 400 staff into the Spark building at Newcastle Helix. Gary Oates, GMI’s Regional Director, North East, said: “The steel signing represents a major step forward in the redevelopment of this landmark building. Our team is committed to delivering a hotel that reflects the high standards and elegance associated with the Dakota brand. “This project showcases GMI’s dedication to quality and innovation in construction, and we are excited to see the vision taking shape.” Marc Banks, a director of Evans Property Group, added: “Reaching this milestone in the development of Dakota Hotels Newcastle marks a significant achievement and we are proud to bring a project of this calibre to the North East, which offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and comfort.“ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published its latest set of horizon scans, spotlighting trends in global population change that will shape society and the built environment over the next ten years. Shifting patterns in births, deaths and migration are reshaping communities. The world faces ageing populations, swelling cities, and more people on the move than ever before. RIBA Horizons 2034: Population Change includes four horizon scans that consider how architects will need to adapt to respond to the changes. Written by leading academics and experts, they are commissioned by RIBA to provide foresight for building design professionals. The four horizon scans are: They discuss how households and neighbourhoods will change, with a need for housing to respond to the reality of smaller families and older, more diverse communities, especially in the UK. They also highlight the impact of unpredictable migration trends, driven by economic factors, but also by conflict and climate change. To tackle the challenge, they say architects must design inclusive, adaptable and resilient buildings. They call for leadership, innovation, collaboration, as well as knowledge sharing between professional institutes, governments and development partners. RIBA Horizons 2034: Population Change is part of the RIBA Horizons 2034 series interrogating the global megatrends predicted to shape society, the built environment, and the architectural profession by 2034. Previous scans focused on the environmental challenge and the economics of the built environment, and the final scans, exploring technological innovation, will be published next month. RIBA President Muyiwa Oki said: “As architects, we’re in a distinctive position of influence and responsibility – uniquely positioned to create and organise places for communities that are changing at a rapid pace. As populations age and diversify, these horizon scans call on us all to design truly adaptable and resilient buildings and places that foster a sense of belonging. They investigate the nuances of migration and displacement, and promote constructive dialogue. I encourage every architect to review the material to help understand the challenges and opportunities ahead.” Contributor to RIBA Horizons 2034: Population Change, Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) President Peter Oborn,said: “These horizon scans remind architects not only of the global challenges posed by issues such as climate change and rapid urbanisation, but also of the imperative for each of us to use our skills to promote advocacy, help build capacity and engage in climate action wherever we may be.” Read RIBA Horizons 2034: Population Change. Explore RIBA Horizons 2034. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
BRISTOL: The redevelopment of a 2.5-acre site in the heart of Bristol has reached a key milestone after main contractor Winvic Construction Ltd celebrated topping out at the mixed-used Redcliff Quarter scheme. Grainger plc, the UK’s largest listed residential landlord, announced in 2022 that it had exchanged conditional contracts to forward fund and acquire the build-to-rent (BtR) element of the second phase of Redcliff Quarter in Bristol. Known as Glasshouse Square, the development comprises 374 build-to-rent homes, as well as 94 affordable homes and four commercial units. Upon practical completion, Grainger will own and operate the scheme, delivering much needed new homes in the centre of Bristol. Developer Madison Cairn – working in partnership with global alternative asset manager ICG Real Estate – secured planning permission for 468 new build to rent homes in 2021, along with an adjacent PBSA development of 367 rooms. The site has a much longer history, though. It had been vacant for more than 20 years when, in 2017, planning permission was granted to regenerate the site. However, after completing the first phase of the scheme – 118 new homes at the north of the site – the development stalled, leaving the rest of the scheme undeveloped. Madison Cairn took over as developer, successfully unlocking the scheme. In addition to the 374 BtR homes and 94 affordable homes, Glasshouse Square includes a total of c.5,900 sq. ft of internal residents’ amenity space; c.21,200 sq. ft of external amenity space and c.8,500 sq. ft of commercial space. The site is a short, nine-minute walk from Bristol Temple Meads Station, which sits at the heart of Europe’s largest regeneration, Temple Quarter. Glasshouse Square builds on Grainger’s existing Bristol portfolio, which includes Hawkins & George, comprising 194 build-to-rent homes, and Millwrights Place which provides 231 build-to-rent homes. Michael Keaveney, Director of Land and Development from Grainger plc said: “This is an exciting milestone for Glasshouse Square, our third Bristol-based development, providing 468 high-quality, professionally managed and well-connected homes for renters, bringing our total portfolio in the city to 900 homes. We look forward to seeing Glasshouse Square progress over the coming months ahead of our launch next year.” Mark Jones, Winvic’s Managing Director for Multi-room, said: “Acknowledging this notable project milestone is a tremendous achievement for all stakeholders involved. The topping out of this complex development in the heart of Bristol is a testament to the team’s perseverance and determination throughout a challenging winter. I wish to extend my gratitude to our dedicated team along with the consultants and supply chain for their tireless efforts thus far. With enthusiasm, we are poised for the year ahead, guiding us towards the final stages of completion in 2025.” Aneil Handa, Managing Director of Madison Cairn, said: “There is a serious under-supply of homes in Bristol. By working in partnership with ICG Real Estate and Grainger we secured planning permission for a revised Redcliff Quarter scheme that saw a substantial increase in the number of homes delivered on the site, compared with the previous consent. Importantly, the new scheme now has 94 affordable homes, which will make a real contribution to helping address Bristol’s housing need. It is great to see such progress on the construction and look forward to seeing the building getting closer to completion in 2025.” Ryan Jones, Managing Director at Iesis Consult, said: “Growing up in Bristol, I’ve always had a deep connection to this city, which makes reaching the topping out of Redcliff Quarter particularly special. Our business, Iesis Consult, has been operating on Redcliff Street for over 15 years, making this project close to home in more ways than one. “The development of Redcliff Quarter, situated in the heart of Bristol, has been a complex and high-profile endeavour. Our team, alongside a dedicated wider team has navigated significant market changes to bring this vision to life. It’s rewarding to see our efforts come to fruition, providing essential housing and student accommodation. I’m proud of our collective achievements and eagerly anticipate the completion of this project, which will greatly benefit the Bristol community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
