Cristina Diaconu, Author at BDC Magazine

Cristina Diaconu

Green light for Nottingham student accommodation scheme

Cristina Diaconu April 25, 2025

Plans for affordable homes at Enfield hospital progressing

Cristina Diaconu April 24, 2025

Planning approved for ten new coastal homes at Steamer Point

Planning approved for coastal homes at Steamer Point

Cristina Diaconu April 24, 2025

McPhillips lands £10m contract to build major transport hub

Cristina Diaconu April 22, 2025

Notting Hill Genesis sells space to support local artists

Cristina Diaconu April 22, 2025

Willmott Dixon to build visitor centre at Northern Roots

Cristina Diaconu April 17, 2025

Wirral Waters to welcome David Lloyd Leisure scheme

Cristina Diaconu April 17, 2025

Great Places submits plans for East Manchester development

Cristina Diaconu April 16, 2025

Elan Homes purchases Warrington residential site

Cristina Diaconu April 15, 2025

Sir Robert McAlpine appointed to deliver NESST at Northumbria

Cristina Diaconu April 14, 2025

Issue 328 : May 2025

Cristina Diaconu

Green light for Nottingham student accommodation scheme

Cristina Diaconu April 25, 2025

Peveril Securities and PMI Developments have announced progress on a major student accommodation scheme in collaboration with Nottingham-based CPMG Architects, aimed at addressing the city’s increasing student housing demand. The development, located on Glasshouse Street in Nottingham’s Eastside, will deliver a high-quality residential offering comprising 37 shared cluster flats and 50 studio apartments, totalling 247 rooms across buildings ranging from three to nine storeys. First proposed in spring 2022, the scheme has evolved through close cooperation between the project team and Nottingham City Council to align with the client’s vision while addressing the priorities of local stakeholders. Chris White, director at CPMG and lead architect on the project, commented: “Throughout the design process, we’ve incorporated lots of feedback from various interested parties, while maintaining PMI Developments’ commitment to creating a high-quality offering which contributes to revitalisation of the Eastside. The result is much-needed student accommodation that will improve the student experience while also supporting the local economy in Nottingham. “This is the third project we have worked on with PMI, strengthening the successful working relationship between us and creating more impactful outcomes. We’re excited to see our shared vision come to life, enabling students to join us in calling Nottingham their home.” The site, currently occupied by a single-storey industrial building, is located at the junction of Glasshouse Street, Rick Street and Howard Street. It has been identified as a key opportunity to relieve pressure on local housing by providing purpose-built student accommodation. The design incorporates a contemporary architectural style focused on sustainability and wellbeing. Key features include energy-efficient systems, calming interior aesthetics, biodiverse green spaces, and active travel infrastructure such as external cycle parking. Paul Ruane, director at PMI Developments, said: “Nottingham has two world-class universities so it’s important that the city’s residential offering is an equally high standard to continue to attract world-class talent that will train – and hopefully be retained – in Nottingham. “We’ve maintained close collaboration with local stakeholders to design a scheme that not only helps meet the demand for purpose-built student accommodation but is sustainable and adaptable to the needs of current and future students. This is a major milestone in our journey but will be maintaining our unwavering commitment to helping Nottingham realise its potential – to benefit students, local businesses and local communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Plans for affordable homes at Enfield hospital progressing

Cristina Diaconu April 24, 2025

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has confirmed the delivery of 284 new energy-efficient homes in Enfield, as part of a development on land at North Middlesex University Hospital. The project, being delivered in partnership with Vistry Group and the Hyde Group, is the latest milestone in the Mayor’s ongoing drive to tackle the capital’s housing crisis. The homes will be a mix of social rent and shared ownership, set within a development that includes low-rise flats and terraced properties ranging from one to four bedrooms. “I’m determined to do everything in my power to make housing more affordable and sustainable for Londoners, which is why I’m partnering with Vistry Group to deliver 284 new homes at North Middlesex University Hospital – a 100 per cent genuinely affordable housing scheme,” said the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. “In addition to delivering much needed new homes, this landmark development will feature new green spaces and first-class community facilities – including a nursery and café – serving not only future residents, but the wider community as a whole. “Tackling housing pressures in the capital and delivering affordable new homes for Londoners remains a top priority for me as we work together to build a better, fairer London for everyone.” The homes will meet high standards of energy efficiency and design, including triple glazing, dual aspect layouts, and advanced ventilation systems. They will be connected to Enfield’s new borough-wide low-carbon energy network, which removes the need for individual boilers and is expected to reduce energy costs for residents. In addition to housing, the scheme will provide 1,500 square metres of green space, a community café, nursery, and a 3,000 square metre office building to support local jobs and services. The development is designed to integrate with the hospital campus and benefit the wider community. Kevin Delve, Managing Director of Vistry East London, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the GLA and Hyde to deliver 284 homes in Enfield, of which 100% will be affordable, meeting a crucial need for high-quality housing. “Drawing on our extensive experience in delivering transformational residential-led projects in London, this mixed-use development will not only provide much-needed homes but also new office space. “We will also deliver a new park, café, and nursery, ensuring long-term benefits for the wider community and helping to create a thriving, well-connected place for people to live and work.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Planning approved for coastal homes at Steamer Point

Cristina Diaconu April 24, 2025

Plans for a new development of ten contemporary coastal homes at Steamer Point have been given the go-ahead. Developer Pennyfarthing Homes has secured planning approval for the 1.3-hectare scheme, which will replace a series of disused buildings with architecturally distinctive properties, set against the backdrop of sea views and the neighbouring Steamer Point Nature Reserve. Designed by David James Architects, the development embraces a landscape-led approach, carefully integrating the homes within the site’s natural surroundings. Many of the mature trees on the plot are protected by Tree Preservation Orders, and the design prioritises the retention of greenery and enhancement of biodiversity. New planting schemes, along with ecological safeguards—such as minimising light pollution near a known bat corridor—underscore the environmentally sensitive strategy. The layout takes full advantage of the site’s elevated position, with four of the homes adopting an ‘upside-down house’ design to maximise sea views. These frontline properties will feature living areas on the upper floors with direct access to gardens via external staircases, while bedrooms will be located on the ground level. The remaining six homes, situated just behind the frontline units, will offer more traditional layouts but still enjoy ocean-facing orientations. The architectural style reflects a blend of natural textures and modern design, with materials such as light stone, brick, bronze-toned aluminium, and timber cladding echoing the surrounding cliffs and woodland. Overhanging roofs and generous glazing aim to soften the visual impact of the buildings while creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Construction is scheduled to commence in autumn 2025, with the first homes expected to be completed by early 2027. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

McPhillips lands £10m contract to build major transport hub

Cristina Diaconu April 22, 2025

McPhillips has been awarded a £10 million contract by Hereford Council to construct the city’s new Transport Hub. The project is part of a broader strategy to improve travel and connectivity across the city, encouraging a shift away from car dependency and supporting more sustainable transport options. The new Hub will feature upgraded bus stands and layovers, dedicated taxi and car parking, including both commuter and short-term spaces, as well as enhanced facilities for cyclists, such as covered cycle stands and lockers. Passengers will also benefit from improved indoor welfare amenities. Designed to offer reliable connections between bus, rail, cycling and walking routes, the Hub aims to enhance accessibility and reduce congestion while improving air quality in the area around the station. Andrew Dunham, contracts director at McPhillips, said: “Having worked on significant public realm and transport projects over the years for different local authorities, we know how transformative these spaces can be. “We have a genuine commitment to improving our local communities and the team at McPhillips is looking forward to delivering a hub which will make moving around the city easier and more sustainable for everyone.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Notting Hill Genesis sells space to support local artists

Cristina Diaconu April 22, 2025

Notting Hill Genesis has agreed to sell 10,000 square feet of new high-quality workspace to long-term partner Bow Arts Trust in the heart of Hackney Wick. The space will deliver 38 affordable studio units, designed to support local creatives and small enterprises. Currently under construction and due to complete in late 2026, the studios form part of the wider Hackney Yards development, which Notting Hill Genesis is delivering in partnership with the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). The project comprises three sites near Hackney Wick Overground station and will provide over 190 affordable residential units, including 31 for social rent, alongside more than 4,000 square metres of commercial space, over 25% of which will be affordable. This sale marks a significant milestone for Bow Arts Trust, as it is the second permanent acquisition in the charity’s 30-year history, which enables them to support artists with long-lasting, affordable workspace. Part-funded by Arts Council England, the agreement represents a long-term investment in Hackney Wick’s creative infrastructure. Bow Arts’ plans for the site were a key element of the Notting Hill Genesis bid that was successfully selected by LLDC to develop the site in 2021. George Clarke, Head of Communities and Commercial Properties at Notting Hill Genesis, said: “We are over the moon to secure this deal to sell the affordable workspace to our long-term partners Bow Arts Trust, following our success at Royal Albert Wharf. This is a real milestone in establishing long term, affordable creative space in the heart of Hackney Wick.” One of the key reasons NHG selected Bow Arts is their proven track record in delivering genuinely affordable workspace, especially when compared to the cost models of other operators in the area. Bow Arts’ lettings strategy puts local creatives first, prioritising Hackney Wick artists and small creative enterprises. Crucially, its rental model is designed with affordability at its core — ensuring access for emerging talent. Workspaces will be priced at around 34% below the local average, helping to protect and sustain Hackney Wick’s creative community for the long term. Marcel Baettig, CEO of Bow Arts Trust, said: “Partnerships make it possible for us to keep artist workspace affordable, retain creative talent, and really invest in artists and the arts. We are inspired by our long-term partners, Notting Hill Genesis, and its commitment to sustaining local community, and supporting creativity to thrive.” Importantly, all occupiers will be asked to actively contribute to the local community through workshops, exhibitions, and outreach, reflecting a shared commitment to placemaking and social value between Bow Arts and Notting Hill Genesis. In parallel, NHG will work closely with Bow Arts to develop and manage a placemaking and community benefit programme. This will deliver creative and cultural activity at the development, ranging from public exhibitions and events to classes and workshops for adults and children, helping to embed arts and culture into the heart of the new neighbourhood. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Willmott Dixon to build visitor centre at Northern Roots

Cristina Diaconu April 17, 2025

Willmott Dixon has been selected by Oldham Council to build a new Visitor Centre and Forestry Skills Centre at Northern Roots, the UK’s largest urban farm and eco-park. The development marks a major milestone in the transformation of 160 acres of green space at the heart of Oldham, part of the council’s ambitious ‘Green and Growing’ strategy. The project has been made possible thanks to £12.9 million in funding from the Government’s Town Deal and Levelling Up Fund Round 2. Located in the woodland area at the northern end of the site, the new Visitor Centre will include a café, shop, production kitchen, exhibition and performance space, along with learning and meeting facilities for community use. The neighbouring Forestry Skills Centre will offer residents access to vocational training and qualifications in technical and land-based skills. The new buildings are central to the next phase of development at Northern Roots, which has already seen the planting of 2,000 trees and creation of six ponds to encourage biodiversity, as well as the establishment of a wildflower meadow and community garden. Additional works as part of the transformation include improved access routes, car parking, an outdoor amphitheatre and further landscaping designed to enhance the site for both wildlife and visitors. Willmott Dixon aims to complete the Visitor Centre in summer 2026. Michael Poole-Sutherland, Director for the North West at Willmott Dixon, said: “As an Oldham-based business we are excited to be shaping this invaluable community space, working in partnership with Oldham Council once again. In partnership with our proud local supply chain partners, we are committed to creating four new employment opportunities directly on the project. Through our bespoke ‘Building Lives Academy’ pre-employability programme, we will support 10 previously unemployed Oldham residents with qualifications, skills and work experience. “We will continue to work with local schools and colleges through site visits, industry workshops and employability sessions. To date, our project team have also volunteered more than 115 hours supporting Oldham people, including with The Salvation Army and the Northern Roots charity.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Wirral Waters to welcome David Lloyd Leisure scheme

Cristina Diaconu April 17, 2025

David Lloyd Leisure, Europe’s leading health, fitness and wellness group, has submitted a planning application to Wirral Council for a new club at Wirral Waters. The proposed club, set to create up to 100 permanent jobs upon completion, will be located at Peel Waters’ Bidston Dock site off Wallasey Bridge Road. It forms a key part of David Lloyd’s continued UK expansion and represents a significant milestone for the Wirral Waters development. Spanning six acres, the new facility will feature a wide array of state-of-the-art amenities, including indoor and outdoor heated pools, a spa garden, three weather-protected tennis courts, six canopy-covered padel courts, making it the largest padel facility on the Wirral, a sports hall with two courts, a high-spec gym, a children’s play area, and a café lounge. In line with David Lloyd Leisure’s commitment to building positive, wellness-focused communities, the club will be designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing. The company also aims to explore local partnerships and has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, with the new site set to incorporate the latest in sustainable building technologies. The club will be highly accessible, with close proximity to major transport links including the M53 motorway, the Mersey Tunnel, and Birkenhead North train station. Currently, the nearest David Lloyd locations are in Cheshire Oaks and Speke, making this development a welcome addition for residents across the Wirral. Beyond the long-term employment opportunities, the construction phase is expected to generate around 60 jobs, further supporting the local economy. The submission is part of David Lloyd’s broader national growth strategy, which includes recently announced new sites in Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Great Places submits plans for East Manchester development

Cristina Diaconu April 16, 2025

Great Places Housing Group has formally submitted plans for the first development to come forward under the newly approved masterplan for the regeneration of the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood in east Manchester. The proposal outlines a new affordable housing scheme comprising 82 apartments for social rent, to be constructed on a vacant site at the corner of Grey Mare Lane and Ashton New Road. The brownfield site was previously home to the Manchester Bar pub, which was demolished in 2020. The planned development will include a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, with features such as private garden spaces for select ground-floor homes, a communal garden, balconies for most upper-floor units, and high-quality landscaping throughout. The scheme also includes a new pedestrian link aimed at improving connectivity from Newcombe Close to Grey Mare Lane and Ashton New Road. The project has been developed in close collaboration with Manchester City Council, One Manchester, and This City, and forms a key part of the broader Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood masterplan, approved in September 2024. The long-term plan will deliver 1,000 new homes, including a substantial portion of affordable units, as well as new green spaces and community infrastructure. Helen Spencer, Executive Director of Growth at Great Places Housing Group, commented: “We are delighted to submit our plans for the first of our planned affordable housing developments as part of the wider regeneration of the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood. This project represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing high-quality, affordable homes for the community in East Manchester. “This development has been made possible through our close partnership with Manchester City Council, One Manchester, and This City. Together, we are dedicated to transforming the Grey Mare Lane neighbourhood into a vibrant and sustainable community. We look forward to seeing these plans come to fruition and making a positive impact on the lives of local residents.” The development is the first of two proposed developments in the area to be delivered by Great Places, with details for a second affordable homes development on a site on Sunny Lowry Road expected to be submitted next year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Elan Homes purchases Warrington residential site

Cristina Diaconu April 15, 2025

Elan Homes is preparing to start work on a 110-home scheme in the Warrington village of Hollins Green. The Cheshire-based business recently acquired a 10.5-acre site off Manchester Road. The land was allocated for housing in the Warrington Local Plan 2021/22 to 2038/39, which was adopted in December 2023. Outline planning permission was secured in April 2024 and reserved matters approval for 110 homes was given by Warrington Borough Council in February 2025. Philip Palmer, land director for Elan Homes in the North, said: “We’re pleased to have acquired this key site, which will help us contribute to Warrington’s housing needs over the coming years. We’ll soon be starting work to prepare the land for new homes with a view to releasing properties for sale in autumn/ winter. The development, known as Hollins View, will offer 77 contemporary private sale properties, 33 affordable homes, plus an equipped play are and open space for residents to enjoy.” Hollins View will offer a choice of two, three and four-bedroom homes. Affordable homes including properties available for rent, shared ownership and under the First Homes scheme, will account for 30% of the new neighbourhood. There will also be one self-build plot available as part of the development. Prices for the homes will be announced at the launch. A package of community investment was agreed during the planning process and will see Elan pay more than £900,000 to the local authority with allocations for education, sports and health facilities, and greenbelt mitigation. Elan anticipates work on site at Hollins View will be completed in 2028. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Sir Robert McAlpine appointed to deliver NESST at Northumbria

Cristina Diaconu April 14, 2025

Sir Robert McAlpine has been appointed as the main contractor by Northumbria University to deliver the new North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST), a landmark £30 million development at the university’s city campus in Newcastle. The contract follows a successful pre-construction services agreement (PCSA) and will involve the full demolition, new build, and extension of the existing Wynne Jones building. The transformation will see the creation of a cutting-edge facility with a new ground floor and six upper levels, covering approximately 900m². Once complete, NESST will house satellite manufacturing clean rooms, advanced prototyping labs, teaching laboratories, a Mission Operations Centre, and collaborative spaces designed to support partnerships with companies in the growing space manufacturing supply chain. Construction is already well underway with steelwork now rising on site. The new centre is set to become a hub for collaboration between academia and industry, enabling internationally significant research and development in space technology. Over the next three decades, NESST is projected to support the creation of more than 350 jobs and contribute over £260 million to the North East economy. The project is backed by substantial investment from the UK Space Agency and Lockheed Martin UK Space. Mark Gardham, Sector Director at Sir Robert McAlpine, said: “We look forward to continuing our long-standing, successful relationship with Northumbria University and delivering this state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Newcastle. “Our team of experts bring the engineering excellence necessary to work in such close proximity to vital transport infrastructure, collaborating closely with our supply chain partners and local stakeholders to deliver the project safely and efficiently, and make a positive impact on the local community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Cristina Diaconu

Green light for Nottingham student accommodation scheme

Plans for affordable homes at Enfield hospital progressing

Planning approved for coastal homes at Steamer Point

McPhillips lands £10m contract to build major transport hub

Notting Hill Genesis sells space to support local artists

Willmott Dixon to build visitor centre at Northern Roots

Wirral Waters to welcome David Lloyd Leisure scheme

Great Places submits plans for East Manchester development

Elan Homes purchases Warrington residential site

Sir Robert McAlpine appointed to deliver NESST at Northumbria

Latest Issue

Issue 328 : May 2025

Cristina Diaconu

Green light for Nottingham student accommodation scheme

Plans for affordable homes at Enfield hospital progressing

Planning approved for coastal homes at Steamer Point

McPhillips lands £10m contract to build major transport hub

Notting Hill Genesis sells space to support local artists

Willmott Dixon to build visitor centre at Northern Roots

Wirral Waters to welcome David Lloyd Leisure scheme

Great Places submits plans for East Manchester development

Elan Homes purchases Warrington residential site

Sir Robert McAlpine appointed to deliver NESST at Northumbria

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