The world’s first pure octagonal high-rise residential building is now just months away from claiming its place in Birmingham’s history books. With the core reaching level 40 and floorplates reaching level 35, Octagon has already begun offering unparalleled views of the city below. On completion, the Octagon will stand proudly
A proposal for Latitude Yellow – a new 12-storey sustainable office development by BAM – has been approved by Leeds City Council’s City Plans Panel, following significant support from local stakeholders. The proposals will be located on the final remaining plot of the former Doncaster Monk Bridge works off Whitehall
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of a development site with planning permission for an 81-bedroom care home in Ewell, Surrey. The site, which was formerly occupied by the Organ & Dragon pub that was demolished in 2014, sits in a highly prominent position, at
Visitors to the event can discover investment options in Greater Lincolnshire including Low Carbon Energy and Agri-food Councils from Greater Lincolnshire will be represented at the annual real estate investor forum UKREiiF next month, alongside representatives from the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership (GLLEP) and Team Lincolnshire – a public
SJ Roberts Construction has secured three new contracts worth £17.6m with Barcud, one of the leading housing associations in Wales. The news further strengthens the relationship between the two organisations which have previously collaborated on developments in Newtown and Presteigne in Powys. These most recent contracts form part of Barcud’s
Leading pub, bar and restaurant chain Mitchells & Butlers have named Milton Keynes-based building services experts Project 1 as their ‘Contractor of the Year’. Specialising in design, construction, refurbishment and ongoing property maintenance services, Project 1 are a long-standing partner of Mitchells & Butlers, contributing significantly to the success of
In late March, the supermarket chain Sainsbury’s opened a new ‘local’ store within Princes Dock, situated on Liverpool Waters, creating 20 job opportunities. This expansion aims to cater to the growing number of businesses and residents within Peel Waters’ lively waterfront district. Occupying a ground floor unit beneath the 760-space
Tier one contractor Sir Robert McAlpine has today announced the appointment of Paul Sims as its new Operations Director as it eyes continued growth. A well-respected industry veteran, Paul will work closely with Commercial Director Glen Harding to further build Sir Robert McAlpine’s growing pipeline of work. Paul was most
Drainage and supply system specialist Polypipe Building Services is hosting two events open exclusively to those working in the building services industry, where it will reveal major additions to its MecFlow Supply System range. Developed to meet the rigours of commercial construction projects, the expanded MecFlow Supply System range will
89% expect to see investment opportunities increase in the next year, according to Lismore research Investor research by leading independent property advisory firm, Lismore Real Estate Advisors has shown that 89% of investors expect to see investment opportunities in Glasgow city centre market increase over the next year. Property companies
The world’s first pure octagonal high-rise residential building is now just months away from claiming its place in Birmingham’s history books. With the core reaching level 40 and floorplates reaching level 35, Octagon has already begun offering unparalleled views of the city below. On completion, the Octagon will stand proudly at 155 meters (410 feet) tall, as a testament to Birmingham’s burgeoning skyline. The pair of tower cranes have now reached their final height, allowing main contractor Midgard to construct the remaining 10 floors of the building core ahead of its practical completion, scheduled for summer 2025. The Octagon isn’t just a feat of engineering; designed by Howells Architects, it’s a testament to innovation in architectural design. As the world’s first pure octagonal high-rise residential building, it stands as an example of progress and possibility in Birmingham. This milestone marks a significant leap forward in Paradise’s commitment to deliver a world-class estate and with a true mixed-use proposition by providing 370 spacious new Build to Rent (BtR) homes. Birmingham is the second fastest-growing city centre population in the UK, ahead of cities like Manchester and Leeds, with 7,000 new residential units either being built or planned across the city centre. Backed by global real estate investor City Developments Limited (CDL) of Singapore, the £110m project pays homage to the nearby Jewellery Quarter with its metal-influenced workshops and products. “As a high-profile tall building with a world-first and highly sustainable design ethos, Octagon will become an important part of the city’s skyline for years to come,” Ross Fittall, Paradise’s Commercial Development Director said. “We are creating a highly recognisable landmark for our city that will build on Birmingham’s growing reputation both at home and abroad, and the latest milestone in Octagon’s progress is something to celebrate.” The architecture of Octagon, a pure octagon with eight equal sides, is an exciting world-first for the city, making the building instantly recognisable on the skyline. The shape of the building responds to the plot of land upon which it sits, maximising light in every home and creating unique appeal thanks to the utilisation of both views and space. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A proposal for Latitude Yellow – a new 12-storey sustainable office development by BAM – has been approved by Leeds City Council’s City Plans Panel, following significant support from local stakeholders. The proposals will be located on the final remaining plot of the former Doncaster Monk Bridge works off Whitehall Road, in the established Leeds West End Business District. Developed by BAM, Latitude Yellow will provide over 200,000 sqft of Grade A commercial office space. Latitude Yellow has been meticulously designed to create the next generation of high-quality, sustainable office space. With a vision to be the most sustainable new workspace in Leeds, the development will achieve Net-Zero status from day one, totally eliminating the need for fossil fuels throughout the lifetime of the building and relying exclusively on renewable energy sources. The development will target BREEAM Outstanding and a Nabers rating of 5.5. The design promotes sustainable and active travel, with minimal on-site car parking, premium changing facilities and secure cycle storage areas. The development has been designed to offer exceptional amenities and access to outdoor space, with the inclusion of a gym, ground floor café, event space, and roof garden. Biodiversity-friendly features include green walls throughout the development and a new public realm. Over 25% of the budget for Latitude Yellow has been allocated to local social value initiatives, so the development will directly benefit the local community. The decision to approve the application was taken by the City Plans Panel on 11 April 2024. Cllr James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “The development – which has now seen its planning application approved – will provide much needed, modern office space on brownfield land in a key location for the city centre. It’s encouraging the new building will be Net Zero, setting an example for future office developments on the road to a low carbon future. We welcome the steps they’re taking to ensure all energy and electricity used by the site will be sourced exclusively from renewable energy, as well as the commitment to sustainable construction. “We look forward to seeing the building progress and further improving this part of the city centre.” Managing Director of BAM Properties, Euan Miller, said: “We’re delighted that our application has been approved by Leeds’ City Plans Panel. Sustainability is at the heart of Latitude Yellow and our proposals have had a really positive response from both the local community and senior stakeholders in Leeds. “In particular, we’re glad to see the City Plans Panel’s support for the promotion of sustainable city centre travel by limiting the amount of car parking spaces. We’re now aiming to begin work on site later this year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has announced the sale of a development site with planning permission for an 81-bedroom care home in Ewell, Surrey. The site, which was formerly occupied by the Organ & Dragon pub that was demolished in 2014, sits in a highly prominent position, at the junction of the A24 and Ewell bypass. Planning consent was achieved in February 2024 and the care home development will provide much-needed best-in-class accommodation for the local elderly population. When completed, the scheme will benefit from 100 per cent wet rooms, luxury communal resident amenities, balconies, and landscaped gardens. Following a competitive sales process run by the specialist care development brokerage team at Christie & Co, the site has been purchased by leading care home developer, Morrison Community Care Group, which plans to complete construction in 2026. Paul Sokhi, Managing Director at Morrison Community Care Group, comments, “Morrison Community Care has a long-standing reputation in the design and development of care homes. We are one of the UK’s leading care home developers because we are passionate about providing the very highest standard of living and service possible, having successfully done this in Scotland for over 30 years, we are now excited to bring our expertise to England. This is another step on the group’s journey to achieve our target of becoming the largest care home developer in the UK, to ease pressure on the NHS, and to provide quality, welcoming, sustainable care facilities for those that require them in our local communities and beyond. “We are delighted to announce that the Group has continued its expansion into England, and has now come as far south as Surrey, with the acquisition of this site. We look forward to bringing the Morrison Community Care product of sustainable quality care environments to Ewell, where residents can enjoy safe quality time while enjoying many amenities such as a cinema, champagne bar, spa, bistro and a private dining room.” Jordan Rundle, Director – Head of Healthcare Development at Christie & Co, comments, “We are delighted to have assisted in the delivery of a state-of-the-art care home scheme for the local community in Ewell. As is the case with many Greater London locations, the local catchment has a material shortfall of market-standard care bedrooms to meet the current demand statistics. This transaction is another example of the demand for high-quality consented development sites being robust within urban M25 locations. Morrison Community Care Group performed exceptionally well on the purchase, and we look forward to visiting the care home once it is built.” The development site was sold for an undisclosed price. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Visitors to the event can discover investment options in Greater Lincolnshire including Low Carbon Energy and Agri-food Councils from Greater Lincolnshire will be represented at the annual real estate investor forum UKREiiF next month, alongside representatives from the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership (GLLEP) and Team Lincolnshire – a public and private sector group of Lincolnshire ambassadors. The Greater Lincolnshire contingent will also be providing two speaker sessions at the event within the Midlands Engine Partnership Pavilion, led by nationally recognised sector specialists; Lincolnshire: Feeding the UK and Energy in the UK: How Lincolnshire is at the Forefront of the Low Carbon Energy Sector. With over £1bn of investment opportunities in the region, Greater Lincolnshire will be showcased by the collaborative inward investment team, who will be promoting the county’s strengths as the place to live, learn and work, with an emphasis on the quality of life. Investment opportunities across the region include the South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone, Humber Freeport, offshore renewables hub, hotel sites ready for development, land earmarked for housing, multiple business centres and commercial space and more. UKREiiF runs from 21 to 23 May, and now in its third year, it’s set to attract more than 10,000 delegates from the property industry, with more than 250 UK local authorities in attendance and 70 guest speakers over the three-day event. Councillor Colin Davie, Executive Portfolio Holder for Environment and Economy at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “We have ambitious plans for Greater Lincolnshire and using the national platform UKREiiF provides, will be targeting investors, developers and organisations that can help drive forward our five core sector propositions. These are low carbon energy, agri-food, advanced engineering and manufacturing, defence & security and our visitor economy. “As we have 25% of England’s grade 1 arable land and 11% of its food production, with leading industry clusters across the food value chain, from agriculture to food manufacturing, this will of course continue to be a focus for a lot of our conversations.” Lincolnshire excels in food processing and agri-tech and was chosen as one of the Government’s manufacturing zones. This followed growth deal grants of £18 million, including £5.1 million for South Lincolnshire Food Enterprise Zone and £2.4 million for University of Lincoln’s Centre of Excellence in Agri-food and Technology at Holbeach. Andy Gutherson, Executive Director of Place at Lincolnshire County Council adds: “We’re well- positioned in Greater Lincolnshire because as well as having established industries, we are also at the forefront of emerging opportunities for investment in the UK. In low carbon energy, we are already creating profitable opportunities and industrial businesses aligned with national sustainability goals. “We are also home to the UK’s most ambitious industrial decarbonisation project, a dynamic circular economy cluster, and the country’s leading offshore renewables hub.” Ruth Carver, Chief Executive at Greater Lincolnshire LEP said: “By attending UKREiiF as a collective, we are showcasing what Greater Lincolnshire can offer to an audience of key players, developers and decision makers within the property and investment industry. “Our team will be more than happy to talk about the devolution opportunities and recent developments in Greater Lincolnshire either now or in the future.” In addition, Team Lincolnshire, professional services firm Knights and contractor Lindum will be co-hosting a fringe event for Team Lincolnshire ambassadors and guests on 22 May, with over 100 attendees expected. Those interested in attending can email teamlincolnshire@lincolnshire.gov.uk The Greater Lincolnshire Pavilion is within the Pavilion Zone at the event with refreshments from Lincoln-based operator Stokes Tea & Coffee. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SJ Roberts Construction has secured three new contracts worth £17.6m with Barcud, one of the leading housing associations in Wales. The news further strengthens the relationship between the two organisations which have previously collaborated on developments in Newtown and Presteigne in Powys. These most recent contracts form part of Barcud’s ongoing commitment to deliver new homes in the communities where they’re most needed and will see affordable housing constructed in Knighton on the Shropshire/Wales border, in Builth Wells, Powys and Aberystwyth, Ceredigion. Work has started in Knighton where a mix of eighteen 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes are being built to A-rated energy standards thanks to the inclusion of air source heat pumps and solar PV panels. The homes, located on West Street in the town, will all be available on an affordable rent basis, with work anticipated to complete in Spring 2025. A further 31 homes will be built on Hospital Road in Builth Wells, and 34 on Piercefield Lane in Aberystwyth. Work on those sites will start later this year. Commenting on the investment and decision to again partner with SJ Roberts Construction, Alex Dawson, Head of Development at Barcud, said: “Investing in the communities where affordable housing is most needed is a priority for Barcud, and ensuring those homes meet the very highest standards of quality and energy efficiency is a value we’re all very proud of. “It is, therefore, vital that we partner with a main contractor that shares these values and which can demonstrate an unrivalled commitment to quality and excellent construction management. Having worked with SJ Roberts on previous projects, we are confident in the team’s ability to successfully deliver these new homes and look forward to seeing the positive impact that they have in the communities of Knighton, Builth Wells and Aberystwyth.” Concluding for SJ Roberts Construction, Mike Sambrook, MD, said: “Our track record delivering quality homes across a range of tenures for social landlords is something we’re incredibly proud of.“Having successfully partnered with Barcud previously on a 36-home project in Presteigne, Powys and the Maes Dulais development in Newtown, it is testament to our experience in this sector that we’ve been appointed to build 80 further homes for the team. To us, this isn’t simply an agreement to build houses, but instead to create vibrant communities that the residents feel proud to call home.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading pub, bar and restaurant chain Mitchells & Butlers have named Milton Keynes-based building services experts Project 1 as their ‘Contractor of the Year’. Specialising in design, construction, refurbishment and ongoing property maintenance services, Project 1 are a long-standing partner of Mitchells & Butlers, contributing significantly to the success of various projects across their esteemed portfolio of brands. This year, Project 1 have been recognised as ‘Contractor of the Year’ for their exceptional performance and outstanding general works, marking their unwavering commitment to excellence within the industry. “We’re honoured to receive Mitchells & Butlers’ Contractor of the Year Award! We’ve been working with the company for two years and it’s brilliant to be recognised for the excellent work we do by such a respected name in the hospitality industry” says Des Brown, Director of Project 1. Project 1’s highly skilled team have provided design, construction and ongoing property maintenance services for Mitchells & Butlers, including carpentry, plumbing and flooring. In addition to the quality of work completed for the pub chain, Project 1 have been commended for their exceptional performance, including their efficiency and a consistently professional team. “This award win is a testament to our fantastic staff! Not only does it highlight the projects we’ve delivered for Mitchells & Butlers, but it showcases our team’s commitment to excellence, quality, professionalism and client satisfaction” adds Des. One of the UK’s largest pub management firms, Mitchells & Butlers’ portfolio of esteemed brands boasts top names including All Bar One, Miller & Carter, Toby Carvery, Harvester and O’Neill’s. Backed by over 20 years’ experience, Project 1 have established themselves as a go-to contractor for design, construction, refurbishment and maintenance projects at pubs, bars and restaurants. As well as the hospitality industry, the building services specialists work on residential and commercial projects across the public, education, leisure and retail sectors. Operating primarily within London, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and the East of England, Project 1 continues to set the standard for excellence. “We’re incredibly proud of our reputation for reliability, dependability and excellent service. This recognition from Mitchells & Butlers reaffirms our dedication to delivering projects of the highest quality – on time and within budget” concludes Des. For more information about Project 1, visit: https://www.project1.uk.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In late March, the supermarket chain Sainsbury’s opened a new ‘local’ store within Princes Dock, situated on Liverpool Waters, creating 20 job opportunities. This expansion aims to cater to the growing number of businesses and residents within Peel Waters’ lively waterfront district. Occupying a ground floor unit beneath the 760-space multi-storey car park, the new 5,748 sq ft Sainsbury’s Local store on William Jessop Way offers a picturesque view of Princes Dock and provides various convenient amenities, including a cash machine, in-store bakery, and Argos collection point. With over 2,000 residents now residing at Liverpool Waters, along with numerous workers and a year-round events programme, the new store will serve as another accessible facility for the local community. Liverpool City Council granted planning permission for the new store last year, which was previously occupied by Bean Café and Holyrood Nursery. Both businesses have continued to operate, with Bean Café recently completing a high-spec fit-out of their new coffee house and deli following their relocation to the adjacent unit. The opening of the new store follows a series of exciting developments for Princes Dock, which is poised to host the UK’s first Nordic-style public floating sauna. Additionally, Princes Dock will be the venue for the swim/run knockout event ‘The Eliminator’ scheduled for May 18. Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s Property Director, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re excited to welcome customers to try out our new store for the first time this week.” Liza Marco, Senior Asset Manager at Liverpool Waters, commented, “Following significant growth at Princes Dock in recent months, and an increasing number of visitors to the neighbourhood, it’s great to see Sainsbury’s joining the large number of businesses now based here.” Liverpool Waters is part of Peel Waters, a UK-wide portfolio of waterfront developments focused on delivering large-scale, sustainable regeneration projects. These initiatives aim to create jobs, spur economic growth, provide new homes, and enhance public spaces across the country. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Tier one contractor Sir Robert McAlpine has today announced the appointment of Paul Sims as its new Operations Director as it eyes continued growth. A well-respected industry veteran, Paul will work closely with Commercial Director Glen Harding to further build Sir Robert McAlpine’s growing pipeline of work. Paul was most recently the Operations Director at Lendlease Europe, where he worked on a number of high-profile, award-winning projects, including TV studios for both the BBC and Sky along with multiple offices, 5-star hotels and rail schemes across the course of a career spanning almost four decades. Alongside the appointments of Mike Hickson OBE as Managing Director of Defence, and Vip Gandhi as Managing Director of Transport, Paul is the latest in a series of hires to help Sir Robert McAlpine maintain its market-leading position in its core sectors, which include Infrastructure, Healthcare, Industrial, Commercial and Special Projects. Grant Findlay, Executive Managing Director, Buildings, at Sir Robert McAlpine, commented: “We are very pleased to welcome Paul Sims to Sir Robert McAlpine. Paul has a reputation for being a truly outstanding operator and will help cement company’s continued growth within our target sectors. He’s a natural fit for Sir Robert McAlpine.” Paul Sims, Operations Director at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “Sir Robert McAlpine is immensely well-respected within the construction sector, and works with some really fantastic clients, so this felt like the perfect move. I look forward to getting stuck in, building on client relationships and helping the firm go from strength to strength”. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Drainage and supply system specialist Polypipe Building Services is hosting two events open exclusively to those working in the building services industry, where it will reveal major additions to its MecFlow Supply System range. Developed to meet the rigours of commercial construction projects, the expanded MecFlow Supply System range will offer greater choice in design and installation options for those specifying and fitting supply systems. The two exclusive events, to be held in London and Manchester, will see experts from the Polypipe Building Services team on hand to demonstrate the expanded range of products and show how MecFlow is suitable specifically for all commercial applications. During the events there will be a chance for visitors to get hands-on with the new products themselves and experience just how robust they are. (main picture) Ian Crickmore, Technical Director of Polypipe Building Services, explains: “Supply systems need to meet all manner of tough standards if they’re to be suitable for use in commercial projects. This is the principle on which we first launched MecFlow, with its robust multi-layer construction and award-winning electrofusion jointing. “Now we’re excited for the next chapter, and at our events in London and Manchester we’ll be revealing first-hand how the expanded MecFlow range will meet an even greater range of applications. Those attending will be able to hear from our industry experts on why this should be their go-to choice for a strong, durable supply system.” These roadshow events are open to anyone working in the building services sector and are being held at the following city central venues: Both events will feature ‘live’ demonstrations and presentations on the latest MecFlow products with ‘how-to’ sessions in tooling and jointing, together with a live roundtable discussion between leading industry figures on hot topics including the skills gap and modern methods of construction. There will also be an opportunity for attendees to gain CPD points with a CIBSE accredited presentation session on the topic of ‘Sustainable Design, Methodology & Building Lifecycle’. These exclusive London and Manchester events are split into morning and afternoon sessions (9.30am-1pm & 1pm-4.30pm) to provide attendees with maximum access to all the activities taking place. For more information and to register for your entry ticket visit: Manchester - https://bit.ly/PBS-MecFlow-Sign-Up-Manchester London - https://bit.ly/PBS-MecFlow-Sign-Up-London Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
89% expect to see investment opportunities increase in the next year, according to Lismore research Investor research by leading independent property advisory firm, Lismore Real Estate Advisors has shown that 89% of investors expect to see investment opportunities in Glasgow city centre market increase over the next year. Property companies are the most bullish, with over 90% forecasting a year of opportunity, while funds are more cautious at 40%. Investor feedback underscores Glasgow’s attractiveness due to its favourable yield gap compared to other key regional cities and robust fundamentals across various sectors, including an under supply of PBSA, a strong prime retail market and in the office sector, a low availability of Grade A space. Living and Industrial sectors are favoured by investors, accounting for 32% each, reflecting the appetite nationally for these sectors on the back positive supply/demand dynamics and strong forecast rental growth. The retail and office sectors also garner interest by 18% of respondents, with the micro location being highlighted as fundamental to appetite for both sectors. Despite this upbeat sentiment, only 21% expressing confidence in the public sector’s support, citing potential challenges such as rent control legislation hindering Glasgow City Council’s ambitions to revitalise its urban core and bring residents back to its heart. Positively, there is certainly appetite from the public sector and the Glasgow City Region deal will deliver £1.1bn in public sector investment to deliver major infrastructure and regeneration projects over the coming years. For an expert view, Lismore interviewed Stuart Orr, Senior Development Manager of Land Securities, who said: “Glasgow’s allure for redevelopment and investment lies in its robust infrastructure and economic prowess, boasting a substantial, well-educated population and thriving sectors like office and retail, with Buchanan Street having effectively zero vacancy and 20% rental growth over the last 18 months. “Challenges persist, with construction costs and financing hurdles hindering redevelopment projects in recent years. Despite setbacks, Glasgow’s resilience shines through, with strategies focusing on sustainable mixed-use and PBSA developments. Glasgow’s potential remains recognised, even amidst day-to-day urban issues, including a better integrated public transport infrastructure that connects to the airport and improvements to public realm. “As regeneration efforts continue, areas like Tradeston, Lancefield Quay and Cowcaddens emerge as hot spots for revitalisation, driven by favourable land values and proximity to transport hubs, promising a vibrant future for the city’s urban landscape.” Simon Cusiter, Director of Lismore agrees: “Glasgow City Council’s aspirations to rejuvenate the heart of the city and draw residents back to its centre reflect a broader trend in the UK property market. “Glasgow’s city centre population growth hinges on rent control policy, but uncertainty due to the Housing Bill, delays investment and has stalled development for several years. Short-term impacts hinder growth, but the medium-term potential is significant. It is more crucial than ever that public and private sectors are properly aligned in order to stimulate the development and regeneration the city deserves. “Glasgow’s resilience shines through, but the key to unlocking this potential is in supporting regeneration in the city centre collaboratively between public and private sector to provide housing and office space to allow the city to thrive.” More detailed research findings and expert views from Stuart Orr and Simon Cusiter can be found in the Lismore Quarterly Review for Q1 2024, available to download from: HERE Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
