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
SCAPE, one the UK’s leading public sector procurement specialists, has today announced the launch of two new Utilities Consultancy Frameworks and the consultants that will deliver up to £1.25bn of investment across the UK. A £750m framework has been announced for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, alongside a dedicated £500m
Ibstock Plc (“Ibstock” or the “Group”) is embarking on the next stage of its major investment programme at its Nostell factory in West Yorkshire. Once fully operational, Ibstock will have the UK’s first fully automated brick slip manufacturing centre at the Nostell site, producing around 50 million brick slips per
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new building management software designed to offer an open, powerful and scalable software solution for one to many buildings of any size. Desigo Optic is powered by FIN framework (developed by Siemens partner company J2 Innovations) and brings the latest IoT technology to buildings
Sheds are often overlooked structures in almost everyone’s backyards that quietly store random tools, equipment, and other knick-knacks. But just because a shed serves a practical purpose doesn’t mean it has to be boring and unsightly. In fact, nowadays, sheds are no longer considered as storage spaces alone. Now, they’ve
Algeco UK OSS has shared behind-the-scenes images of its latest 75-bedroom Single Living Accommodation (SLA) complex at the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Stafford. The company has delivered a full turnkey solution, acting as Principal Contractor to the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the British Army. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)
Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight experts, releases the April 2024 edition of its Construction Index. The Index focuses on the three months to the end of March 2024, covering all underlying projects, with a total value of £100m or less (unless otherwise indicated), with all figures seasonally
SEGRO Park Rainham has reached full occupancy following the agreement of a new lease with Wolseley – one of the UK’s leading merchants in plumbing, heating, cooling and infrastructure with over 500 UK branches. Wolseley has agreed to occupy 27,783 sq ft of urban warehouse space across two units at
Office interior design consultancy, Office Principles North, has completed the combined CAT A and CAT B refurbishment of a new Central Co-op support centre in Lichfield. The c.32,000 sq ft facility delivers a hybrid workplace destination over three floors of Central House, Queen Street and secures Central Co-op’s presence in
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
SCAPE, one the UK’s leading public sector procurement specialists, has today announced the launch of two new Utilities Consultancy Frameworks and the consultants that will deliver up to £1.25bn of investment across the UK. A £750m framework has been announced for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, alongside a dedicated £500m framework for Scotland. The two frameworks have been designed to empower utility sector organisations to shape their utilities programmes and projects, whilst supporting the delivery of low-carbon infrastructure and sustainability targets. Perfect Circle and AtkinsRéalis (with subsidiary support from Arcadis) have been appointed to deliver projects and professional services across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Perfect Circle and Arcadis (with subsidiary support from AtkinsRéalis) have been appointed to the Scotland framework – which will be managed and operated by SCAPE Scotland. Both frameworks have been procured in compliance with the UK’s Utilities Contract Regulations and the Scottish Utilities Contracts Regulations. Running for a period of four years, with an option to extend for a further two years, the new Utilities Consultancy Frameworks are aligned to deliver solutions and services across a range of sectors, including ports and harbours, rail and metro, nuclear, aviation, water, renewables, energy (gas and electricity including maintenance), and telecommunications. Clients will have access to a suite of professional services including strategic advice, engineering services, design services, project management and quantity surveying. The direct award frameworks operate a parallel lotting structure, which gives clients a choice of industry-leading consultants, providing greater certainty for cost and project timelines, as well as enabling clients to quickly leverage commissions and assure earliest possible completion. These frameworks follow the announcement of SCAPE’s Utilities Works and Services frameworks, which launched in January with the aim of helping utility sector clients futureproof their infrastructure delivery, while responding to their wider sustainability goals. Mark Robinson, Group Chief Executive for SCAPE said: “The new utilities frameworks have been created to give our clients access to a pool of market-leading professional services, while complementing SCAPE’s suite of consultancy, civil engineering and construction frameworks. The chosen delivery partners align with SCAPE’s values of sustainability and social impact – principles that guide every project procured via our frameworks. “Leveraging strategic advice, innovative design, and efficient project management, SCAPE’s goal is to help the utility sector enhance the delivery of low-carbon infrastructure projects, from unlocking the value of existing assets to navigating the challenges of realising futureproofed, innovative schemes. Ultimately, this translates into improved services, economic growth, and a more sustainable future for communities across the UK.” John Simons, Group Procurement Director at SCAPE, added: “SCAPE’s partner selection process ensures that only the most capable and collaborative firms join the frameworks. The partners on our new frameworks, AtkinsRéalis, Arcadis and Perfect Circle, bring a wealth of experience and expertise. As with all SCAPE’s frameworks, the new utilities consultancy offer operates a direct award model, promoting transparency, agility, and best practice. By not only adhering to industry regulations but continuing to invest in research and development, SCAPE’s goal is to create a robust foundation for successful project delivery now and in the future.” James Butler, Managing Director for Project and Programme Services at AtkinsRéalis, a fully integrated professional services and project management company, said: “This new framework from SCAPE has huge potential, especially in its ability to seamlessly unlock access to AtkinsRéalis’ full range of multi-disciplinary services for those organisations in the regulated utilities market, which are ready to reap its benefits. “With our market-leading expertise in sectors such as water, transport, energy and nuclear and many others, we look forward to delivering our technical excellence through the utilities framework, working with partners such as Arcadis and further building on our relationship with SCAPE.” Victoria Brambini, Managing Director for Perfect Circle, a consortium of top-tier professional services partners, said: “Perfect Circle is delighted to be awarded the SCAPE Utilities Consultancy Services frameworks. Our unique prime contracting collaboration will allow utility providers to use these frameworks to accelerate their commissioning of unlimited professional services from industry experts and extensive supply chain in every sector. “All SCAPE frameworks deliver to gold standard, outperforming the value for money tests essential for today’s economy. The new utilities frameworks are specially shaped for the essential infrastructure across the UK, so we’re hugely proud to continue delivering on SCAPE’s commitments to unlock value and enhance communities. We have harnessed the broadest consortium of experts especially for this framework who will together help shape better national utilities infrastructure for a greener, safer, brighter future.” Mac Alghita, Mobility Global Strategy Implementation Director at Arcadis, which delivers sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets, said: “Arcadis is thrilled to extend our relationship with SCAPE as we introduce a major new framework that perfectly aligns with our new global strategy which focusses on accelerating a planet positive future. Our commitment lies in delivering best in class, digitally enabled and sustainable solutions to our clients and their customers. “We take immense pride in being appointed to Lot 1 of the Utilities Framework in Scotland and eagerly anticipate collaborating with partners AtkinsRéalis, Perfect Circle and other SCAPE partners across the UK. The opportunity to provide specialist services to new and existing client organisations in ports and aviation, energy and nuclear, water, communications, transport, and rail sectors is incredibly exciting.” The SCAPE Utilities Consultancy frameworks will now enter the mobilisation phase, with clients anticipated to begin using these frameworks from the end of April 2024. For more information, please visit www.scape.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ibstock Plc (“Ibstock” or the “Group”) is embarking on the next stage of its major investment programme at its Nostell factory in West Yorkshire. Once fully operational, Ibstock will have the UK’s first fully automated brick slip manufacturing centre at the Nostell site, producing around 50 million brick slips per year. As the leading brick manufacturer in the UK and with over 200 years of industry knowledge and expertise, the Group are increasing their presence in the fast-growing markets for brick slips, façades, and walling system solutions, as they continue work towards maximising the full potential of more modern methods of construction in the UK. The new brick slips centre at Nostell is progressing in two key phases. Phase one is nearing completion and focuses on driving pace and scale of brick slips through automation using the first of its kind technology here in the UK. Phase two focuses on even more advanced technology which will significantly expand the brick slips product range and offering from 2025 onwards. The latter phase is a fundamental step in Ibstock’s journey to net zero. The investment and innovation into the brick slips centre will not only continue to provide customers with a traditional authentic brick finish, but also enable a more modern installation approach. This will help meet the growing customer demand in mid-to-high rise new build and other key markets such as retrofit and the low rise modular offsite sector. The Group will also continue to collaborate closely with developers and contractors on other new construction systems which will bring even more modern solutions and more carbon efficient building products to the supply chain, as well as influencing the design for manufacturing and assembly from early stages of conception. Adam Foster, Project and Operations Director at Ibstock commented: “We are incredibly excited by what the development of our brick slips manufacturing centre at Nostell means for Ibstock as a whole – unleashing speed, scale, flexibility and precision in fast growing markets. The investment will increase our overall brick slip capacity by ten times more than what it is today, which is testament to our commitment to innovate for the construction industry.’’ “Not only do brick slips provide an authentic brick finish that will support planning applications, but also enable a more efficient installation for the targeted markets. Its light weight, promoting easier installation, manual handling, less waste in construction, as well as time efficiencies on construction sites.’’ ‘‘The new manufacturing technology at Nostell also allows for more agile operations, with fast response times and lower minimum order quantities compared to current imported alternatives. Furthermore, the high precision and new process results in brick slips having a tighter tolerance for systems such as precast. The slips will be incredibly durable and safe from a combustibility perspective, meaning they can be specified with confidence across multiple system holders.’’ “For mid to high rise buildings, retrofit and low rise modular, using Ibstock brick slips can significantly streamline the specification process. We use a variety of materials to match regional styles nationwide, ensuring our slips can perfectly complement existing, handset bricks. “Furthermore, the slips are available in a range of bespoke thicknesses, from 15mm and above, meaning they suit a wide variety of applications. The high precision manufacturing and rigorous quality process allows us to achieve unparalleled precision on dimensions for manufactured systems requiring a very tight tolerance.“By scaling production capacity of our brick slips, we are enabling more key markets to take advantage of the inherent benefits they can deliver.’’ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Siemens Smart Infrastructure is launching a new building management software designed to offer an open, powerful and scalable software solution for one to many buildings of any size. Desigo Optic is powered by FIN framework (developed by Siemens partner company J2 Innovations) and brings the latest IoT technology to buildings such as schools, sports facilities, smaller hotels and retail outlets. It features a ‘single pane of glass’ interface to visualise and control HVAC, lighting and energy performance functions with a market leading dashboard builder. The open protocol approach ensures easy and seamless integration with Siemens and other third-party building automation systems, IoT devices and IT based applications. Major protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, KNX and OPC are all supported. Desigo Optic applies Haystack native semantic tagging to ensure harmonisation of data and fast access to critical building information, typically streamlining workflows by a third. Secure Edge2Cloud remote access technology (removing the need for, and the cost of, a VPN) allows ease of access to data, servicing and upgrading, reducing the requirement for site visits. It can be deployed in two ways: either on a server or on an embedded controller. Ensuring that all building types are not forgotten in finding ways to adopt decarbonisation measures is crucial in the move towards net zero operation. A recent study by Siemens showed that fewer than 50% of organisations expect to meet decarbonisation targets by 2030.[1] Desigo Optic is an important development in helping buildings to not only provide environments which actively contribute to the wellbeing of their users, but also to do so in a more resource-efficient way. [1] ‘Siemens Infrastructure Transition Monitor 2023: The Great Divide on The Path to Net Zero’ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Sheds are often overlooked structures in almost everyone’s backyards that quietly store random tools, equipment, and other knick-knacks. But just because a shed serves a practical purpose doesn’t mean it has to be boring and unsightly. In fact, nowadays, sheds are no longer considered as storage spaces alone. Now, they’ve evolved into stylish structures that can improve the general aesthetic of your outdoor space. Currently, outdoor improvements have steadily increased in popularity, with 57% of homeowners reported to have done an outdoor renovation every year. So, besides working on your lawn, patio, or fences, now’s a good time to focus on your outdoor shed. Whether you dream of a cosy workshop or a stylish storage solution, there are countless ways to elevate your shed’s design. Keep reading to explore some inspiring shed ideas, blending practicality and visual appeal. Probably the most popular shed design is the classic wooden look, whether you’re aiming for a traditional shed or envisioning it as a summer house. There’s just something about the warm, natural beauty of timber that makes you want to curl up and relax away from the world. Plus, wood is a good insulator, making it a perfect spot for people looking for a workshop for their DIY projects. To ensure you achieve this wooden aesthetic, opt for high-quality lumber, such as cedar or redwood. Not only are they naturally gorgeous, but they’re also resistant to decay and pesky insects, ensuring your shed will look great for years to come. If you’re unsure which lumber or wooden materials to use, you can always tap on the help of the shed builders in Toowoomba service. These expert shed builders can help you select the perfect timber for your project to ensure everything is built to last. They can also guide you through the process of adding those charming finishing touches, such as a fresh coat of paint and some vintage-inspired hardware. This shed design style can be suitable for people looking to have a mini space as a getaway from the hustle and bustle of life. To nail this rustic retreat look, make use of materials that possess some serious character. Reclaimed wood, for example. Besides its rich, weathered patina that adds instant charm, it’s also an eco-friendly choice. In fact, did you know that using reclaimed wood is reported to reduce carbon emissions by 78% in 2050? You’re practically helping preserve the planet while building your backyard escape! Another important element for designing a rustic retreat shed is adding vintage-inspired details. Think corrugated metal roofing, antique-style hardware, or maybe even a salvaged window or two. These small touches can add so much personality and warmth to your outdoor shed. If you love getting your hands dirty doing gardening chores, this might be the perfect design for you. For your greenhouse shed, you’ll want to incorporate large windows or even transparent panels to really maximise that sunshine. Other than helping your plants thrive, ample sunlight can make your greenhouse shed feel brighter and airier. Plus, since natural light is a good productivity and mood booster, this can help you feel extra motivated to tackle your gardening projects. For the shed’s materials, incorporate plenty of shelving and storage solutions to keep your gardening tools organised. You may consider hanging baskets and potting benches or installing a little sink for quick clean-up. You can even build a small seating area, so you’ll have a space to relax and admire your hard work. Of course, a greenhouse shed may require more maintenance, considering that you’re keeping live plants inside. So, ensure the shed has proper ventilation to avoid humidity, as well as some shade cloth to prevent your plants from getting scorched during the hot months. For people who need a dedicated space for their arts and crafts, transforming your backyard shed into an artist’s studio can be ideal! The very first thing you need for this type of shed design is plenty of natural light. For one, proper lighting can help you see your work in its truest colours possible. You can opt for big windows and skylights or even hang multiple mirrors to help spread the light around. As for the vibe, you may want the shed to have a clean and minimalist look with white walls and simple but functional furniture. A simpler and neater shed can also make it easier for you to concentrate on your craft. storage solutions solutions such as industrial shelving are also important to keep your arts and crafts supplies neat and safely tucked away. Lastly, don’t forget about a comfy seating area to use for work or for taking a break.” This shed design is perfect for families looking for a new and innovative play space for their kids! Creating a playhouse shed in your backyard is like giving your kids their very own little world to explore and imagine in. What’s more, studies have shown that imaginative or pretend play can bring positive effects on a child’s social and cognitive development. When designing your playhouse shed, you can go for a classic storybook cottage look with cute window boxes, a peaked roof, and even a small front porch. Or, if your kids are more modernistic, you can build a playhouse with clean lines and pops of colour. For the playhouse shed’s interiors, consider including kid-sized furniture like a little table and chairs, a play kitchen, or even a dress-up corner. Then, add more whimsical touches like a chalkboard wall for doodling, a reading nook, and a loft space for the hideout. The more interactive your shed is, the more your kids will love it. Takeaway These are just some of shed design ideas to get you going! With some smart design choices and proper planning, you can convert a humble backyard shed into a totally stylish, visually appealing and functional space. So, grab your toolbox and get ready to create your dream shed.
Algeco UK OSS has shared behind-the-scenes images of its latest 75-bedroom Single Living Accommodation (SLA) complex at the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Stafford. The company has delivered a full turnkey solution, acting as Principal Contractor to the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and the British Army. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) refers to offsite and onsite techniques, which could include mass production and factory assembly as alternatives to traditional building methods. These are a fast way of delivering new buildings focused on the efficiency of materials and human resources. Modular buildings devised utilising MMC have the potential to deliver significant improvements in productivity and quality for both the construction industry and the end user. They also minimise the work required on-site, which can have added benefits and appeal for those in sectors such as Defence. The solution provided to MOD Stafford is a CTM Leve1 (Category 1) Pre-Manufacturing 3D primary structural system that will be used to house members of the army. The three-storey building, known as Beacon Barracks, is set to offer high-quality accommodation with integral communal areas, as well as a brick slip façade and sustainable features including solar PV and heat pumps. The modules for the barracks were manufactured in Carnaby in East Yorkshire and delivered to the site with a Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV) of around 80%. MOD Stafford was designed by AHR Architects, supporting the Algeco UK OSS team on the construction stage and architectural design through its Leeds offices. A full site inspection has now been carried out with strong feedback received by attendees and participants, particularly regarding the overall quality and feel compared to comparative schemes. Volumetric Air tests are carried out on all completed projects and the SLA Block at MOD Stafford has achieved a rating of 1.18. Lee Kenton of Build Energy commented that 1.18 is “exemplary for the size of the building” and “far exceeded” the Passivhaus gold standard of 0.60, with an air change rate of 0.48. The new barracks at MOD Stafford is part of an £800M investment into SLA by the Army over the next decade. This investment into modern infrastructure is set to provide military personnel with the fit-for-purpose accommodation facilities they deserve, as well as contribute to ambitions to become Carbon Net Zero by 2050. Brigadier Pete Quaite, Head of Army Infrastructure Plans, said, “I visited the Single Living Accommodation under construction at Beacon Barracks at the start of this year. To see the finished block just two months later shows the impressive pace of progress being achieved through our modular design and build programme. This new SLA is another excellent example of how ongoing Army investment is improving the quality of life for our people, providing them with modern, spacious and well-designed accommodation.” Wayne Yeomans, Algeco UK OSS Sales and Marketing Director said, “This is modular and offsite construction at its best. I must applaud the Algeco UK team as well as our supply chain partners, including AHR Architects, for making this possible. Working with architects means we have incorporated innovative features into the design, such as solar PV orientation to maximise the amount of electricity produced and optimising the number of overall modules required. “We were selected as the modular building partner by the MOD because of our track record in supplying high quality accommodation on a diverse range of other publicly funded projects, along with our willingness to collaborate with project partners and deliver excellent value for money. “The quality of these solutions is proven by results, like the industry-leading scores achieved in our recent volumetric air test, which is not an easy achievement. We have learnt so much from this project and we are proud this will also help inform the Defence Infrastructure Organisation’s future Programmatic Design approach.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight experts, releases the April 2024 edition of its Construction Index. The Index focuses on the three months to the end of March 2024, covering all underlying projects, with a total value of £100m or less (unless otherwise indicated), with all figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a report which provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of year-on-year construction data, giving built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance over the last 12 months. The April Index paints a decidedly gloomy picture, in line with the persistent decline across the construction sector. Again, project-starts are down against the previous Index period and the previous year. Ongoing pressure on household budgets, coupled with economic uncertainty, continues to negatively affect consumer confidence. This has led to unease among investors, significantly delaying project-starts across the UK, as they wait for stability to return. Against this backdrop of socio-political disruption and a looming General Election, starts remain significantly lower than last year for a third consecutive month. The situation is unlikely to change in the short term, as the industry struggles to get back on its feet whilst being continuously battered by harsh headwinds. Commenting on the results, Glenigan Economist, Drilon Baca, says, “Unsurprisingly, our latest data shows project-starts remain low, with continued economic uncertainty leading to market stagnation, prolonging delays across the industry. Like the March Index, we haven’t seen the traditional ‘spring uptick’ boost starts this month. Investor confidence is at an all-time low, resulting in a general reluctance to move projects to site. The situation is likely to persist until the autumn when a new Government is in place and conducts a long-anticipated spending review. “However it’s not all doom and gloom, there are some glimmers of hope on the horizon, with a number of non-residential verticals showing signs of improvement, including Community & Amenity, retail, and health, all of which were up on last year. Regionally, Northern Ireland was the standout area, posting growth against both periods. Taking a closer look at the sector verticals and regional outlook… Sector Analysis – Residential Residential construction experienced overall decline in the three months to March as starts fell 27% against both the preceding period and 2023 figures. Continuing on a downward trajectory, social housing performance was particularly weak, with starts down 43% against the preceding three months and 40% compared with the previous year. Private housing also dropped back, with work starting on site falling 22% against the previous three-month period and plummeted 24% on 2023 levels. Sector Analysis – Non-Residential Performance was mixed for non-residential verticals. Community & Amenity project-starts experienced an impressive growth period, increasing by 36% against the previous three months to stand 19% up on a year ago. A boost to the vertical was partially delivered by a £79 million prison extension project in Shaftsbury, Dorset. It was the only vertical to experience growth against both periods. Retail project-starts were in decline over the Index period, with a fall of 13% during Q.1. However, there was a modest value increase of 1% against the previous year. Utility starts decreased 21% against the preceding three months but also saw a modest increase against 2023, up by 2%. Similarly, health starts experienced a fall of 13% against the preceding three months, but advanced 26% on the same period last year. In contrast, education experienced a mixed period, up 3% compared with the last quarter but down 17% on a year ago. Elsewhere the sector continued to slump. Industrial starts remained lower than 2023 levels, decreasing 22%, and falling 15% during the three months to the end of March. Civil works fared particularly poorly, with the value of project-starts declining 34% against the preceding three months, to stand 26% lower than a year ago. A significant driver for the decline was poor performance in infrastructure, which remained 42% behind 2023 levels, with work starting on-site also slipping back 43% against the last quarter. Hotel & Leisure and office construction-starts were also down against both the previous quarter and the previous year. Regional Analysis Northern Ireland was the strongest-performing region in the UK, with project-starts increasing 44% against the preceding quarter, to stand 28% up on this time last year. Here, growth was accelerated by the £44 million development of the Hamilton Dock Hotel in Belfast. The outlook for the East of England was also optimistic. It was the only other region to experience growth against both periods, up 13% on the preceding three months, as well as 25% on the previous year. Growth in the region was helped by the £74 million commencement of a 246 residential unit development in Maldon, Essex. London experienced a 23% decrease against the preceding three months and remained 18% down against the previous year. The West Midlands experienced particularly poor performance, with the value of project-starts falling 56% against the preceding three months and by 45% compared with the same time last year. This was the steepest decline of any region. Work starting on site in the East Midlands (-49%), Wales (-33%), and Scotland (-25%) all remained distinctly behind 2023 figures. Every other region of the UK experienced a weakening in project-starts against both the previous quarter and the year before. To find out more about Glenigan and its construction intelligence services click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SEGRO Park Rainham has reached full occupancy following the agreement of a new lease with Wolseley – one of the UK’s leading merchants in plumbing, heating, cooling and infrastructure with over 500 UK branches. Wolseley has agreed to occupy 27,783 sq ft of urban warehouse space across two units at the development. The company will join a diverse range of occupiers including Transport for London and London Ambulance Service. With BREEAM Excellent certification and an EPC A+ rating, the high-quality, flexible industrial units are designed to maximise space and natural light, and feature smart sensors that monitor electricity usage, heating and airflow, to enable the customer to benefit from cost reductions. In line with the company’s Responsible SEGRO commitment to Champion low-carbon growth, every unit at SEGRO Park Rainham incorporates highly efficient sustainability measures built for the long term, including photovoltaic panels installed on the roofs and walls, LED lighting and electric vehicle charging points as standard. SEGRO Park Rainham is part of the company’s East Plus regeneration scheme – a partnership with the Greater London Authority which will deliver 1.4 million sq ft of modern industrial space, spanning the London boroughs of Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Newham, and regenerating previously derelict land. Roger Connett, Managing Director (Specialist and Acquisitions Division) at Wolseley, said: “The investment at SEGRO Park Rainham further strengthens Wolseley’s growth strategy across the UK and Ireland. The unit will be occupied by Neville Lumb, a specialist market-leading supplier of commercial sanitaryware to new build and refurbishment projects. “The new location will further enhance Neville Lumb’s proposition for customers in London and the South whilst, materially improving the environmental impact of its operations.” Bonnie Minshull, Head of London at SEGRO, said: “This new letting to Wolseley is an important milestone for SEGRO Park Rainham, as all units that form part of the second phase of development are now fully let. “It is fantastic to see that our deliberate design and focus on sustainability, longevity and innovation has created a vibrant and thriving business community for customers of all shapes and sizes, and we’re pleased that Wolseley is joining us here as the latest and final occupier.” Space is still available at the development’s Enterprise Quarter. With a range of units, it provides customers with options to take up more space as their businesses expand, and offers flexible leases, additional support services and access to amenities to aid growth. It comprises two parts: The Innovation Business Centre, which is tailored to meet the needs of start-ups; and the Enterprise Business Centre, which offers slightly larger units for growing SMEs. SEGRO Park Rainham is located adjacent to the A13, with fast access to central London and the M25. The development is on the perimeter of the UK’s largest market – with 46% of the UK’s population within a 90-minute drive. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Office interior design consultancy, Office Principles North, has completed the combined CAT A and CAT B refurbishment of a new Central Co-op support centre in Lichfield. The c.32,000 sq ft facility delivers a hybrid workplace destination over three floors of Central House, Queen Street and secures Central Co-op’s presence in the city. Its open plan design houses a variety of adaptable work settings to promote collaboration among teams and provide individuals with autonomy in how and where they work. Features include bespoke event spaces, themed meeting rooms and areas for focused activities. A breakfast bar and dining area doubles as social and entertainment space, while an outdoor terrace on the building’s third floor caters for meetings and events. The refurbishment has been shaped by Central Co-op’s commitment to the environment and social responsibility. Office Principles North has reused materials wherever possible – including reupholstering c.80% of existing furniture – while there is also new, sustainable lighting and external landscaping. Central Co-op has made a significant long-term investment in the infrastructure of Central House, including necessary roofworks, brickwork and new windows to ensure it complies with the latest building regulations. A focus on energy efficiency has secured an EPC ‘A’ rating. Office Principles North was chosen as delivery partner for the refurbishment following completion of an initial workplace consultancy project that involved Co-op colleagues. In addition to the CAT B works, the contractor has also delivered the CAT A refurbishment of 12,460 sq ft space that will be sublet by Central Co-op. Tina Batham, joint managing director of Office Principles North, said: “It has been a huge pleasure to work in partnership with Central Co-op to deliver its new Lichfield support centre. Together, we’ve created a modern, sustainable workplace that embodies the organisation’s culture and values and cements its place in the heart of the local community. The design has been shaped by Co-op colleagues and succeeds in fusing functional and creative spaces that promote both hybrid and collaborative ways of working. The project has undoubtedly enhanced Central Co-op’s existing property portfolio.” Liz Hanshaw, head of change at Central Co-op, said: “With sustainability being so core to our purpose, we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved, with a modern, light and airy space where colleagues can be at their very best to make a difference for Members and customers. Not only have we created modern, convenient spaces where colleagues can work collaboratively together, we’ve also created a place where we can proudly host our events such as our Members meetings, in the heart of the city centre.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals