Maidstone housing association Golding Homes has entered into contract with Skillcrown as the development partner for phase one of its regeneration of Cambridge Crescent in Shepway. Skillcrown has over 30 years’ experience and will deliver 119 new homes, made up of 91 one- and two-bedroom flats and 28 two- and
COWI, a leading international engineering consulting group, has been awarded a design contract by Network Rail for a section of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) scheme between Stalybridge and Huddersfield. The project forms part of the TRU scheme, a major programme of railway improvements across the Pennines, better connecting passengers
LEADING regional procurement specialist EN:Procure, part of Efficiency North Holdings consortium of social housing providers, has continued its support of communities in Yorkshire through its Social Value Credits scheme for members. Efficiency North members who use EN:Procure’s frameworks can accrue the credits to be used for local community investment or
The owners of Ocean Terminal have confirmed they have signed a deal which will bring a Tesco Express to the Leith waterfront development as part of multi-million pound plans to regenerate the site. The addition of the supermarket to the retail section of the redevelopment is expected to create up
Leading volumetric developer Tide has secured a resolution to grant planning permission for their Hastings Road scheme. The development will transform the underutilised retail site into a vibrant mixed-use development, delivering 412 new student homes with communal and commercial spaces together with public realm enhancements. Located at a major junction
New market analysis by peer-to-peer real estate investment platform, easyMoney, reveals that while the British housing market is likely to remain somewhat muted in 2024 with respect to house price growth, there are a number of local areas where prices are expected to climb with gusto, with 10 areas of
The first rail seating handrails are set to be installed at Everton Stadium As the seat installations continue at pace, with fast-approaching 40,000 now in situ, the first delivery of the handrails have arrived on site at Bramley-Moore Dock. Everton Stadium will feature rail seating throughout the entire lower tier
Construction work is underway at HarperCrewe’s new development of two, three and four-bedroom homes coming soon to Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. The collection of new homes, which is being developed in partnership with the Duchy of Lancaster, is being built off Spire Road and is set to be launched later this
Leading property management agent Rendall & Rittner has strengthened its new client service offering, appointing Amaly Hind as New Business and Mobilisation Manager, expanding its team and capacity. With 15 years of experience working in property management, Amaly will support Rendall & Rittner as it continues to expand its growing
Local contractor, Hobson and Porter have been appointed to restore and preserve the last remaining WW2 civilian ruin in the UK, National Picture Theatre on Beverley Road. Thanks to funding from Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the façade will be restored to its former period style,
Maidstone housing association Golding Homes has entered into contract with Skillcrown as the development partner for phase one of its regeneration of Cambridge Crescent in Shepway. Skillcrown has over 30 years’ experience and will deliver 119 new homes, made up of 91 one- and two-bedroom flats and 28 two- and three-bedroom houses, and four commercial units in the first phase of the regeneration. Homes England, the government’s housing agency, is providing grant funding for the first phase of the project, which is expected to be completed by early 2026. Over three phases, the regeneration will see 114 existing homes and shops replaced with 236 new, energy-efficient affordable homes and a modern shopping area, improved landscaping and community facilities. Tom Casey, Executive Director of Development and Strategic Asset Management at Golding Homes, said: “We’re very happy to have Skillcrown on board to deliver the first phase of 119 affordable new homes and commercial units. “Over recent years we’ve worked closely with the local community and stakeholders in Shepway and are now looking forward to getting started on site and delivering our shared vision for the area. “This significant investment project, supported by Homes England funding, will provide a range of new affordable homes, shops and facilities for the local community.” Salik Osman, Skillcrown’s Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Golding Homes to deliver these much-needed affordable homes to help kick start the regeneration of the area. “We look forward to working with the local community to bring forward a development that everyone can be proud of.” Work to prepare the site is now underway, with the demolition phase due to commence in the next two weeks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
COWI, a leading international engineering consulting group, has been awarded a design contract by Network Rail for a section of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) scheme between Stalybridge and Huddersfield. The project forms part of the TRU scheme, a major programme of railway improvements across the Pennines, better connecting passengers between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. Working collaboratively within a major delivery organisation, consisting of specialist consultants and contractors, COWI’s role is to develop engineering solutions for the route with the objective of minimising impacts on adjacent communities, reducing construction duration and costs, all with sustainability and safety oversight. Bringing specialised expertise in dealing with historic tunnels and construction methods, COWI will be responsible for the tunnelling works for three Victorian era tunnels; Stalybridge tunnel, Scout tunnel and Standedge tunnel. Works include accommodation for W12 gauge clearance and electrification, including 1.7km of track slab installation to facilitate track lowering. This will enable larger freight trains to pass through, allowing for greener transportation of cargo which would typically be moved by lorry. As part of the W2BC project, COWI will also be delivering off track drainage and geotechnical work. Providing specialist teams, the geotechnical work will focus on retaining walls and earthwork stability while the off-track drainage enhancements will increase flood resilience. Andy Sloan, Managing Director, COWI in the UK, comments: “We are looking forward to collaborating closely with TRU and its supply chain through its new hub and spoke model. The work presents unique challenges due to the age of the infrastructure, requiring a balance between modern engineering solutions and the preservation of historical integrity. Our teams have been working on the TRU project for over seven years so we are delighted to continue our involvement on this additional section of the programme.” The upgrades aim to bring greener, more frequent and faster journeys with improved reliability for passengers between Manchester and York. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LEADING regional procurement specialist EN:Procure, part of Efficiency North Holdings consortium of social housing providers, has continued its support of communities in Yorkshire through its Social Value Credits scheme for members. Efficiency North members who use EN:Procure’s frameworks can accrue the credits to be used for local community investment or creating new jobs and apprenticeships. The scheme’s latest £1,500 total was accumulated by 54North Homes, a member that builds and manages more than 3,000 affordable homes across Yorkshire. It decided to share the proceeds equally between walking buddy project Move Mates and Leeds-based community service The Pantry. Lee Parkinson, chief executive of Efficiency North, said: “Social value is the beating heart of Efficiency North and the foundation stone of our vision, values and mission. The Social Value Credits model was created as a response to our members wanting a more flexible way of delivering real impacts to the communities they serve, and that is evidenced by these donations made by 54North Homes. “Whether the money is going towards apprenticeships, jobs in the community or great causes, it’s all about building resilient communities for the north of England.” Since launching the scheme in 2019, Efficiency North has delivered £564k in Social Value Credits to its membership for them to target support in the communities they serve. Move Mates, based in North Yorkshire, helps make getting out for a walk a reality for people who have difficulty leaving their homes, training volunteers to offer one-to-one support to members of the community. Becci Blues, Move Mates CEO, said: “The donation from Efficiency North and 54North Homes has been a huge help in supporting our projects to continue to run throughout North Yorkshire, allowing us to continue to offer our services from volunteer walking buddies to help get people active, improve their wellbeing and reduce isolation. “On average it costs us £75 to recruit and train a new volunteer, so this donation will mean we can recruit ten new volunteers and support ten new beneficiaries from our waiting list. Thank you to Efficiency North and 54North Homes for their support and generosity.” The Pantry at Kirkstall Valley Development Trust provides residents in the Kirkstall area with access to groceries and fresh produce at an affordable price, reducing their shopping bills. The trust’s CEO, Adele Rae, said: “Without the support of organisations such as Efficiency North and 54North Homes, the pantry would not be sustainable, so this generous donation is greatly appreciated. “The funds have gone directly towards food for the pantry, which supports between 30 and 40 households each week that may be struggling financially, or with their physical or mental health. “It’s a lifeline for many people in the community so this donation will help us serve even more.” To find out more about Efficiency North, please visit https://www.efficiencynorth.org Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The owners of Ocean Terminal have confirmed they have signed a deal which will bring a Tesco Express to the Leith waterfront development as part of multi-million pound plans to regenerate the site. The addition of the supermarket to the retail section of the redevelopment is expected to create up to 20 jobs as part of a major investment in Leith’s waterfront. The 4,700 sq ft ground floor unit will look out over a new public realm and future residential development. The announcement is the latest in a chain of positive developments on the site, including the relocation and upgrade of the 24/7 PureGym to a brand new unit earlier this month. Last year Ocean Terminal revealed it had agreed a long-term lease with Level X, the gaming and immersive entertainment provider, which will see a new purpose-built, state-of-the-art leisure venue open at the centre adjacent to a brand new Club 3000 Bingo venue which promises to be one of the best clubs ever developed in the UK, enhancing the leisure offering at the new look centre. Chris Richardson, Managing Director of Ambassador Investment Management, the Scottish owners of Ocean Terminal, said: “We are delighted to confirm a fifteen-year lease with Tesco which will bring significant benefits to the Leith waterfront development, cementing our commitment to ensure this project delivers for the local and wider community. “The addition of a new major retailer is a huge boost to the project and our longer term vision to to regenerate this waterfront area into a thriving, sustainable development creating an outward-looking, mixed-use town centre here in Leith. “We’re thrilled to have Tesco fully on board, which further enhances the multi-use, dynamic offering within the leisure space at the Ocean Terminal site.” Head of Campaigns for Tesco, Tony McElroy added: “We are excited to be opening a new Tesco Express in Ocean Terminal, as part of our ongoing investment and job creation plans across Edinburgh. We look forward to serving our customers and supporting local community groups through our Stronger Starts and Community Food Connection initiatives.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading volumetric developer Tide has secured a resolution to grant planning permission for their Hastings Road scheme. The development will transform the underutilised retail site into a vibrant mixed-use development, delivering 412 new student homes with communal and commercial spaces together with public realm enhancements. Located at a major junction adjacent to West Ealing underground station, the new student homes will alleviate pressure on the local housing market while driving new activity to the site by providing commercial space and an improved public realm. The project will be delivered using Tide’s innovative volumetric technology, which involves precision-manufacturing volumetric units before assembling them onsite. This approach is proven to reduce construction programmes by up to 50% while also cutting embodied carbon. It also minimises onsite disruption, logistics and defects. The volumetric units are built in controlled factory settings by Tide’s sister company, Vision Volumetric. The development has been designed around an external courtyard space at the heart of the site to complement students’ lifestyles. Additionally, residents will benefit from the scheme’s extensive and thoughtful amenity spaces, designed to ensure a welcoming and nurturing living environment for students. The plans also feature a biodiverse roof and photovoltaic panels, which add to the project’s environmental benefits.Helen McManus, Head of Planning at Tide, said: “We look forward to breaking ground on Hastings Road and contributing to West Ealing’s vibrant urban fabric. This exciting project marks a significant new addition to Tide’s portfolio of student accommodation projects, and we would like to thank everyone involved in this process. Our proposal seeks to be an exemplar of student development, with high-quality living conditions and generous internal and external amenity space.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New market analysis by peer-to-peer real estate investment platform, easyMoney, reveals that while the British housing market is likely to remain somewhat muted in 2024 with respect to house price growth, there are a number of local areas where prices are expected to climb with gusto, with 10 areas of the nation on track for growth of more than 14% by the end of 2024. easyMoney analysed the recent performance of the British housing market based on the latest available Land Registry data*, calculating the average monthly rate of growth seen since interest rates were held at 5.25% in September of last year. easyMoney then used this average monthly change to forecast how the market could perform over the remainder of the year, with homebuyers yet to see a reduction in interest rates materialise this year. National picture The analysis shows that since the base rate was held at 5.25% for the first time in September 2023, the average house price across Britain has declined at an average rate of -0.3% per month. If this trend continues through to the end of the year, the average house price in Britain could fall by -2.6%, or -£7,501, from £283,428 today to £275,927 in December 2024. Just two regions forecast for positive growth A regional analysis reveals that only two regions of Britain are expected to see positive price growth by December. In the North West, the past six months has seen average monthly price growth of +0.4%. If this continues through to the end of the year, prices will grow by +4.3%reaching a regional average price of £330,593. Meanwhile, the North East has seen prices grow by a monthly average of +0.2% over the last six months. If this continues through to December 2024, prices will increase by +2.4% to reach an average of £164,235. Prices in all other regions are predicted to fall, with the West Midlands (-7.8%), London (-6.8%), and Yorkshire & Humber (-6.3%) experiencing the biggest drops. These forecasts from easyMoney mirror the wider industry consensus that the British housing market will remain somewhat subdued in 2024. 10 local authorities forecast for growth of 14%+ However, further analysis by easyMoney at local authority level* has revealed that some of Britain’s local markets could be destined to buck the national trend, with 10 locations forecast for growth in excess of +14%. Over the past six months, house prices in Derbyshire’s Amber Valley district have increased by 2.4% per month, putting the area on track for growth of +26.5% by the end of the year. Darlington has seen an average monthly rate of growth of 2.1% since interest rates were held, suggesting house prices in the area could climb by a further +23.7% by the end of this year. Also set for +14% price growth or more are Torfaen (+18.8%), West Devon (+16.6%), Babergh (+15.7%), Rossendale (+14.8%), North West Leicestershire (+14.8%), Greenwich (+14.5%), Hackney (+14.2%), and Chorley (+14%). The Analysis by easyMoney also shows that a further 102 local authorities could see positive house price movement in 2024. Jason Ferrando, CEO of easyMoney says: “After such consistent upward growth, followed by a period of stagnation, it looks to be a far more settled year for the housing market, with property values expected to remain largely flat in 2024. “But as is so often the case, you can’t judge a market by its topline statistics. Instead you have to dive down into the local market data to discover that price performance in certain parts of Britain could be far from flat as we move through the year. “For anyone who is looking to invest in property this year, it’s useful to know which parts of the country are bucking the national trend. Although it can be far less time consuming to opt for an investment vehicle where market experts have already done the hard work in identifying these up and coming investment hotspots.” Data tables and sources Full data tables and sources can be viewed online, here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The first rail seating handrails are set to be installed at Everton Stadium As the seat installations continue at pace, with fast-approaching 40,000 now in situ, the first delivery of the handrails have arrived on site at Bramley-Moore Dock. Everton Stadium will feature rail seating throughout the entire lower tier of the raking south stand for home fans, and also in the lower section of the away end in the north east corner. And initial installations are set to commence imminently in the south stand. Elsewhere within the bowl, all of the ‘P’ handrails have been installed on access stairs, while most of the glass balustrading is in place at the vomitory entrances. Work also continues to install ducting around the pitch surrounds, for the critical infrastructure of undersoil heating, below-ground drainage, irrigation pipes and cables for broadcasters. Work has started on the barrel roof cladding at the south end of the east stand, while the intricately-shaped pieces have been fitted at the northern end, to provide clean edgings. The top-level roof coverings are almost complete on the west stand, and the 172m lengths of top-sheet coverings are set to be rolled out on the expansive south stand, from a specially-adapted shipping container. With the entire site now energised, and all mains infrastructure services are now connected, work is picking up apace inside, where suspended ceilings are being fitted and all catering and concession area equipment installed. The sweeping Western Terrace, facing the River Mersey, is shaping up well, with concrete works now finished, waterproof membranes laid and, at the southern end, drainage layers being excavated in preparation for hard landscaping. Setts and paving along the Mersey river wall add another level of precise detail to what will become a superb vantage point for supporters. Meanwhile, in the fan plaza, more trees have been planted and the third pedestrian gate has been lowered into the gap in the boundary wall that formerly served as the main site entrance for vehicles. All three of the steel gates are now in position, and will be skilfully reintegrated into the wall using existing brickwork. Skilled craftsmen form Vetter, a specialist stone contactor and part of the Laing O’Rourke group of companies, continue to painstakingly pave the 30,000m sq fan plaza that will serve as the spacious entrance to the stadium footprint. And with the former access road that cut through the plaza now redundant, foundations are currently being laid for the installation of historic railway lines, before the two sections of paving are expertly joined up. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction work is underway at HarperCrewe’s new development of two, three and four-bedroom homes coming soon to Higham Ferrers, Northamptonshire. The collection of new homes, which is being developed in partnership with the Duchy of Lancaster, is being built off Spire Road and is set to be launched later this year. Built with energy efficiency in mind, HarperCrewe’s latest site is designed to appeal to buyers on all rungs of the housing ladder – from first-time buyers, through to downsizers and growing families looking for their dream home. Sarah Boyce, Sales and Marketing Director for HarperCrewe, said: “Higham Ferrers is an idyllic location for many homebuyers, and with good reason. With a selection of charming local pubs, boutique and independent shops, quaint coffee shops and many historic buildings around the Market Square and College Street, it’s a wonderful place to live. “Not only that but it has great access to the A6, taking people to Wellingborough, Northampton and beyond. In fact, the train line from Wellingborough can take people into London in only 45 minutes – making the development ideal for commuters. “Buying a new home, rather than choosing an older property, means you can view, reserve and cherry-pick your preferred interior finishes straight from your smartphone or tablet, ensuring that your new home is tailor-made for your own tastes and needs. “Not only that but new homes are generally much more energy efficient than older homes. In fact, buying new can mean saving thousands on energy and household bills each year, which can mean the financial difference to many families between being able to decorate and furnish their new home, go on a fantastic holiday or just put some money aside for a rainy day. “We’re very much looking forward to releasing more details about the new homes coming soon to Higham Ferrers, so urge people to register their interest now to find out more information as soon as it’s available.” To find out more and to register interest to be the first to find out more about HarperCrewe’s new development in Higham Ferrers as soon as it’s released, visit harpercrewe.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading property management agent Rendall & Rittner has strengthened its new client service offering, appointing Amaly Hind as New Business and Mobilisation Manager, expanding its team and capacity. With 15 years of experience working in property management, Amaly will support Rendall & Rittner as it continues to expand its growing portfolio. Having started her career at Rendall & Rittner in 2009, Amaly helped establish Rendall & Rittner’s North division, before expanding her knowledge at other firms across the Greater Manchester area. Working for a high-end residential retirement developer, Amaly was responsible for overseeing the company’s portfolio in the Midlands and North, developing an interest in the mobilisation of new schemes. In 2020, Amaly returned to Rendall & Rittner, where she has been managing significant changes to health and safety processes in line with the evolving Building Safety Act legislation. As New Business and Mobilisation Manager, Amaly is responsible for overseeing the acquisition and onboarding of new clients, before handing them over to Rendall & Rittner’s property teams for ongoing management. Amaly’s previous experience in mobilisations, and more recently in understanding new requirements under the Building Safety Act, will allow her to deliver a smooth experience for new clients and developments. Amaly said: “Through my role as New Business and Mobilisation Manager, I am looking forward to applying my existing knowledge of property management in new ways. Over the past 15 years, I have gained an in-depth knowledge of a range of different elements that affect the ongoing management of developments and am keen to use this to ensure that our onboarding and handover processes are as smooth and comprehensive as possible.” Richard Daver, Group CEO at Rendall & Rittner comments: “Through her previous roles, Amaly has repeatedly proven her ability to deliver exceptional results and her experience across the industry will make her a key asset in expanding the capabilities of our New Business and Mobilisation team. Introducing new clients to everything we can offer at Rendall & Rittner, Amaly will be important in helping us grow our business across the UK, whilst also continuing to deliver an unrivalled residential property management service.” For further information please visit: www.rendallandrittner.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Local contractor, Hobson and Porter have been appointed to restore and preserve the last remaining WW2 civilian ruin in the UK, National Picture Theatre on Beverley Road. Thanks to funding from Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the façade will be restored to its former period style, including its iconic windows and signage. Structural elements, including the two large concrete beams, which saved the lives of the 150 people inside the theatre on the night it was bombed, will also be preserved. Set to become a flexible space for community events and education, it will also become a place of reflection for the 1,200 Hull civilians that died during WW2. Hobson and Porter have delivered other heritage projects within the city and work on this historical site will get underway in the coming weeks. Gillian Osgerby, Programme Director at Hull City Council, said: “It is great to reach this key milestone in restoring this iconic site and tell its remarkable story. It’s a reminder of how civilians on the home front were affected by the Blitz. “After London, Hull was the UK’s most bombed city during World War 2 and thanks to National Lottery players, we can now remember and recognise the sacrifice that was made.” The former National Picture Theatre was designed by architects Runton and Barry for the De-Luxe Theatre Company and was constructed in 1914. The building was badly damaged during a Luftwaffe air raid on 18 March 1941, although none of the 150 people inside the cinema at the time were killed or seriously injured. The former National Picture Theatre gained Grade II listed status in 2007 due to its significance as a rare surviving bomb-damaged building from the Blitz of the Second World War. Air raids on Hull went on longer than on any other British city and, out of Hull’s 91,660 houses, only 5,945 survived the air raids undamaged. Remedial work to stabilise the building took place in 2020 and now the major works are scheduled to begin in the coming weeks. It is expected to be complete in the autumn. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
