Wates Group has completed the Welcome Building, a 207,000 sq ft, nine-storey commercial space in Bristol. The project has been delivered in a joint venture between Trammell Crow Company and EPISO 5, a fund managed by Tristan Capital Partners. The project is a landmark in the city centre setting a
British Land has announced a significant redevelopment of Broadgate Tower, a 34-storey office building within its Broadgate campus in the City of London. The project aims to enhance sustainability standards while delivering high-quality office space to meet growing market demand. The redevelopment will include a three-storey extension featuring a 6,200
The University of Manchester’s redevelopment plans for Fallowfield Campus have reached a significant milestone with the submission of a Reserved Matters Planning Application. The application outlines detailed proposals for the appearance, landscaping, layout, and scale of the scheme, covering Owens Park, Oak House, and Woolton Hall. This submission builds on
Willmott Dixon has scooped City of Doncaster Council’s Gateway One development, a new 52,000 sq. ft Grade A office building on Trafford Way which is set to become Doncaster’s new digital tech hub. Work on the £32 million development, adjacent to Doncaster train station, will begin in April with completion
Cadogan has announced the first retail tenants at The Gaumont, a landmark £235 million development, and the creation of its ‘creative quarter’. The new retail signings are independent businesses New Forms, BookBar and Art Play, bringing an exciting blend of art, music, and literature to the King’s Road, enhancing the
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero has granted development consent for the North Lincolnshire Green Energy Park, marking a significant step forward for renewable energy in the region. The approved project, proposed by North Lincolnshire Green Energy Park Limited, will feature an Energy Recovery Facility (ERF)
Turner & Townsend has been appointed as the project manager and employer’s agent for the prestigious regeneration of Canons House in Bristol. This appointment follows Turner & Townsend’s recent deal to integrate CBRE’s project management business into its global operations in January. Canons House, a Grade II listed building located
Stelling Properties has announced the start of its largest and most ambitious project to date, a landmark student living development at 119 High Street, Southampton. The £20 million project will deliver 257 student studios, significantly expanding Stelling’s previous developments to meet the growing demand from the city’s student population. The
Planning permission has been granted for a new Sand Sports Centre at Hove Beach Park, following a decision by councillors at the Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday, 5 March. The proposal, submitted by Yellowave Brighton, includes the development of three sand courts for beach volleyball, beach tennis and footvolley, as
Willmott Dixon is set to deliver a £23 million transformation of Dewsbury Bus Station, continuing its track record of improving urban connectivity across the UK. The project, which follows similar work in Stockport, North Shields, Halifax and Stevenage, is aimed at enhancing the convenience and appeal of public transport in
Wates Group has completed the Welcome Building, a 207,000 sq ft, nine-storey commercial space in Bristol. The project has been delivered in a joint venture between Trammell Crow Company and EPISO 5, a fund managed by Tristan Capital Partners. The project is a landmark in the city centre setting a new standard for sustainability, wellbeing and community with advanced ESG credentials. The building is targeting net zero carbon in operation and is one of Bristol’s first fully electric workspaces. The project supports Bristol’s net zero by 2030 target and the UK’s 2050 decarbonisation goals. The building achieved EPC A and a Design For Performance NABERS UK target rating of five stars for building efficiency, and is targeting BREEAM Outstanding certification. It also sets new standards for occupier wellbeing as the first Bristol office development to target Well Platinum Certification. All materials used during the construction process were 100 per cent recyclable, and the building uses solar energy, low carbon materials and smart technology to optimise efficiency. It is also the first office to extract all its heat from a zero-carbon water source heat pump, connected to the Bristol Heat Network. These features mean the building is on track to achieve a 40 per cent reduction in both CO2 emissions and water consumption. A unique feature of the building is the ‘street’ on the ground floor with homely, hotel-style breakout areas, a café bar, events space, wellness mezzanine and commissioned public art. It has been designed to create an inclusive, vibrant and collaborative community hub. Through this project, Wates has delivered additional social value for the surrounding local community. Wates employed a local apprentice and trainees on the site, as well as running work experience programmes and supporting site visits for students of the University of Bristol Civil Engineering, the University of the West of England, and Women in Property South West. A total of £5,000 was also donated to The Dings Youth Club and 440 trees were planted during a community day for the project. Project delivery partners include Darling Associates Architects, Hoare Lea and Gillespies. Mark Craig, Regional Managing Director for the South at Wates Group said: “Welcome Building represents our commitment to reimagining places for people to thrive. “Designed as a climate-friendly, user-focused, and inclusive office space for Bristol, not only is this landmark project truly sustainable but it delivers meaningful impact on the local community, setting a new standard for development in the city.” Image Credit: Ben Dale Photography Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
British Land has announced a significant redevelopment of Broadgate Tower, a 34-storey office building within its Broadgate campus in the City of London. The project aims to enhance sustainability standards while delivering high-quality office space to meet growing market demand. The redevelopment will include a three-storey extension featuring a 6,200 sq ft terrace at the front of the building. Additionally, the project will introduce modern amenities such as upgraded arrival areas, an amenity floor, cycle storage, and shower facilities. Tower floors will undergo extensive refurbishment to align with contemporary occupier expectations. Broadgate Plaza will also be transformed into a green oasis, boosting biodiversity and promoting employee wellbeing. Scheduled for completion in late 2026, the project is strategically timed amid increasing leasing demand. With active leasing requirements at their highest since 2011 and a projected shortfall of 5 million sq ft of premium office space in the City over the next four years, Broadgate Tower is well-positioned to attract tenants seeking a prime location and modern facilities. The development is set to deliver a gross yield on cost exceeding 8% and a high-teen ungeared IRR. BAM has been appointed to oversee the project, which includes constructing a new pavilion, enhancing the public realm, upgrading reception and end-of-trip facilities, and refurbishing office floors. The installation of an air source heat pump is also part of the plan, with the total project cost estimated at £100 million, of which British Land’s share is £50 million. David Lockyer, Head of Development at British Land, said: “British Land has an excellent track record of developing high quality, sustainable towers which meet the standards of modern-day occupiers. “Following our commitment to deliver 2 Finsbury Avenue last year and recent leasing success across the Broadgate campus, this is another significant milestone for both the campus and the wider City as we deliver another office tower into a market where there is short supply of high quality, modern space but very high demand.” British Land has been actively securing new tenants, with approximately 200,000 sq ft of office space at Broadgate either agreed upon or under offer this year. This builds on the 750,000 sq ft of office leasing deals completed in 2024, which included agreements with Akin Gump and Marex at 155 Bishopsgate, as well as Citadel and Citadel Securities at 2 Finsbury Avenue. The company’s Broadgate REIT, co-owned with GIC, has also formed a joint venture with Modon Holding to develop the 750,000 sq ft 2 Finsbury Avenue project. Meanwhile, 1 Broadgate is set to complete later this year, with 96% of its office space pre-let to JLL and A&O Shearman. Sustainability remains at the core of the Broadgate Tower project, which is targeting BREEAM Outstanding, an EPC A rating, and WELL certification. Circular economy principles are being integrated to minimise embodied carbon, which is limited to just 230kg CO2 per sq m. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Manchester’s redevelopment plans for Fallowfield Campus have reached a significant milestone with the submission of a Reserved Matters Planning Application. The application outlines detailed proposals for the appearance, landscaping, layout, and scale of the scheme, covering Owens Park, Oak House, and Woolton Hall. This submission builds on the Outline Planning Permission granted in January 2024 and will now be assessed by Manchester City Council’s planning department. A five-week consultation and engagement process took place in December 2024 and early January 2025, ensuring local community feedback played a role in shaping the proposals. The redevelopment plan includes 3,300 modern, high-quality student bedspaces, along with dedicated amenity space, ancillary residential dwellings, and enhanced green spaces. The design features five distinct neighbourhoods celebrating local history and character, with a central hub serving as the focal point of the campus. Dr Simon Merrywest, Director for the Student Experience at the University of Manchester, commented on the submission: “This is an important milestone in realising our vision for the Fallowfield Campus. The plans and proposals within the Reserved Matters Application reinforce our commitment to providing new and returning students with modern, high-quality accommodation, and will help us to meet the future needs of our student population.” The project is being delivered by the Viridis Consortium, a partnership between GRAHAM, Equitix, and Derwent FM. Demolition of the Owens Park Tower and surrounding buildings is currently underway, with enabling works progressing ahead of the main construction phase, set to begin in 2026. A phased handover will allow students to move into their new accommodation from 2027 through to 2030. GRAHAM has led the planning process in collaboration with the University of Manchester, architects Sheppard Robson, and planning consultants Deloitte. Neil McFarlane, GRAHAM Project Director for the Fallowfield Campus, highlighted the importance of the submission: “The planning submission is a further important milestone for the Fallowfield Campus project. It is the culmination of months of challenging work and an intensive programme of engagement with the University, staff, students and the local community. We believe the submitted plans will create an exemplar sustainable campus that will enhance the experience of the University’s next generation of students.” Sustainability is a core aspect of the redevelopment, with the project set to become one of the world’s largest Passivhaus developments. This will ensure the buildings use less energy, maintain good indoor air quality, and provide comfortable temperatures throughout the year. The development is also targeting BREEAM Excellent certification, an independent sustainability benchmark, while preserving the mature landscape and enhancing green spaces throughout the campus. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Willmott Dixon has scooped City of Doncaster Council’s Gateway One development, a new 52,000 sq. ft Grade A office building on Trafford Way which is set to become Doncaster’s new digital tech hub. Work on the £32 million development, adjacent to Doncaster train station, will begin in April with completion expected in January 2027, where it aims to be net zero carbon in operation, as well as achieve an EPC rating of A and BREEAM Excellent. Gateway One will also include an area of public open space and span across five floors with two commercial units on the ground floor which incorporate alfresco dining. It is largely funded through the Doncaster Town Deal fund, and overseen by the Town Deal Board, a sub-group of the new city centre board. It builds on Doncaster’s ambitions to grow a digital and tech cluster of national significance. The specialist digital tech hub and the businesses located there will focus on digital technology with global AI firm Automatic Analytics among the founding businesses set to take up residence. Chris Yates, Yorkshire director at Willmott Dixon: “Our team of local commercial experts will bring a wealth of experience and innovation to Gateway One. In partnership with City of Doncaster Council, we will create a cutting-edge and sustainable hub where digital and technology businesses can thrive and grow in this city. “We’re passionate that innovation will be a catalyst for creating opportunities for the people of Doncaster, so, in partnership with our proud local supply chain partners, we are committed to creating six new employment opportunities directly on the project. Through our bespoke ‘Building Lives Academy’ initiatives in collaboration with Advance Employment Hub, we also aim to deliver more than 650 hours of impactful employment support for local people furthest from the job market, those at risk of redundancy and those looking to transition into the construction industry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Cadogan has announced the first retail tenants at The Gaumont, a landmark £235 million development, and the creation of its ‘creative quarter’. The new retail signings are independent businesses New Forms, BookBar and Art Play, bringing an exciting blend of art, music, and literature to the King’s Road, enhancing the area’s cultural vibrancy and continued legacy as a hub for creative innovation. All are set to open in late spring 2025. This marks the first phase of openings for The Gaumont, a 220,000 sq. ft mixed-use building, delivering Cadogan’s long-term vision to create a new commercial and cultural anchor for the King’s Road. It features flagship retail, a revitalised independent cinema, creative and office spaces, hospitality venues including a rooftop bar with panoramic views and pub theatre, and a significant public art installation by internationally acclaimed artist Shezad Dawood. A new destination is taking shape as part of this development, focused on its return elevation along Chelsea Manor Street. Curated in response to community feedback, which highlighted a resounding call for more independents focused on the arts, music, and literature, a cluster of subsidised small spaces have been dedicated to nurturing young creative enterprises. BookBar will take a 1,242 sq. ft unit for its independent bookshop, wine, and coffee bar, cultivating a vibrant literary scene through author talks, book clubs, and events, while also providing a welcoming space for late night browsing and drinking four days a week. New Forms will occupy 1,045 sq. ft as a vinyl café and boutique record shop curated by the team behind Next Door Records. It will serve as a hub for vinyl culture and social connection, while also featuring a music-led bar that regularly hosts events and collaborations with artists and musicians. Art Play will initially establish itself at 20a Chelsea Manor Street before relocating to a larger 2,200 sq. ft space at 5 Chelsea Manor Street. Originally founded in Shoreditch, Art Play’s Chelsea expansion will offer a dynamic space for artists and art lovers alike. With an emphasis on creative engagement, it will provide workshops, exhibitions, and a collaborative environment for the local art community. Hugh Seaborn, CEO at Cadogan, said: “The Gaumont is a new landmark that celebrates the community, heritage, and artistic spirit of Chelsea. From the outset, we have collaborated closely with local residents to shape a development that reflects their vision, celebrating Chelsea’s cultural heritage, while supporting its thriving creative scene. Welcoming BookBar, New Forms, and Art Play will establish Chelsea Manor Street as a dynamic day-to-night destination for both locals and visitors. We look forward to seeing these businesses thrive and contribute to the continued evolution of King’s Road as a world-class cultural and retail destination.” Chelsea Manor Street’s creative quarter will strengthen the King’s Road’s reputation as a place where creators, innovators, and artists can flourish. With a strong emphasis on independent, community-driven offerings, these occupiers mark an exciting step toward the evolution of a new cultural landmark in Chelsea. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero has granted development consent for the North Lincolnshire Green Energy Park, marking a significant step forward for renewable energy in the region. The approved project, proposed by North Lincolnshire Green Energy Park Limited, will feature an Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) capable of converting up to 650,000 tonnes per year of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) into energy. The facility will produce up to 95 Mega Watts of electrical output (MWe) and/or 380 Mega Watts of thermal output (MWt), generating power, heat, and steam for the surrounding area. The facility will be located at the existing Flixborough Wharf site, situated along the River Trent. The application, which was first submitted to the Planning Inspectorate on May 31, 2022, entered the examination process in June of the same year. Over a six-month period, the public, statutory consultees, and other interested parties were given the opportunity to provide evidence. The findings and recommendations from this examination were delivered to the Secretary of State in August 2023. This marks the 90th energy application examined by the Planning Inspectorate out of a total of 150 examined to date, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to maintaining timely and thorough assessments under the Planning Act 2008. Throughout the process, local communities were actively involved, with opportunities for public participation ensuring that their voices were heard on projects that may impact them. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Turner & Townsend has been appointed as the project manager and employer’s agent for the prestigious regeneration of Canons House in Bristol. This appointment follows Turner & Townsend’s recent deal to integrate CBRE’s project management business into its global operations in January. Canons House, a Grade II listed building located on Bristol’s Harbourfront within the City Dock Conservation Area, was acquired in December 2024 by Kinrise and Mactaggart Family & Partners (MFP) from Lloyds Banking Group. The development partners plan to transform the iconic structure into a premier office building for Bristol, incorporating top-specification headquarters office spaces, independent restaurants, and rooftop terraces. Originally designed by Arup Associates and constructed by Bovis Construction in the late 1980s, Canons House was granted Grade II listed status in April 2023. The building was recognised for its significant role in the post-industrial transformation of Bristol’s docks, its distinctive architectural heritage, and its picturesque location by the waterfront. The project is part of Kinrise’s ongoing mission to rejuvenate iconic buildings in major UK cities, creating dynamic, community-focused spaces that deliver economic, social and environmental benefits. Once completed, Canons House will offer 200,000 square feet of office, retail, food and beverage, and leisure amenities, contributing to a vibrant, mixed-use environment at the heart of Bristol’s waterfront. Turner & Townsend’s expertise will be central to ensuring the successful delivery of this ambitious vision, supporting Kinrise and MFP in creating a sustainable, community-driven workplace that prioritises long-term value creation and environmental responsibility. The company’s role will involve overseeing the entire project, from design through to execution, ensuring a seamless integration of the redevelopment’s various elements. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Stelling Properties has announced the start of its largest and most ambitious project to date, a landmark student living development at 119 High Street, Southampton. The £20 million project will deliver 257 student studios, significantly expanding Stelling’s previous developments to meet the growing demand from the city’s student population. The development is set to be the company’s most sustainable and energy-efficient student accommodation to date, incorporating numerous environmental features. Located in Southampton’s Old Town Quarter, within a conservation area and close to several listed historic buildings, the project has been designed by Stelling’s in-house architectural team to complement and enhance the local cityscape. The new facility will replace two outdated 1960s commercial buildings and will consist of three blocks ranging from three to six storeys. The development aims to provide high-quality, modern student accommodation in the heart of the city. This latest development follows the success of Stelling’s multi-award-winning Bargate House project, also in Southampton, which regenerated a derelict site on the High Street. Like Bargate House, the new student accommodation at 119 High Street will be operated by leading student living provider, Unilife. The scheme will offer a mix of one- and two-bed studios of various sizes, including apartment clusters with communal kitchens. The high-specification private living spaces will be complemented by extensive shared amenities designed to encourage social interaction and enhance the student experience. These will include a gym, study areas, lounge spaces, gourmet dining room, karaoke room, meeting hub with a coffee station, individual meeting rooms, games room, and laundry facilities. Demolition work has already begun at the site, and preparations for archaeological excavations are underway. A concrete podium will be constructed at ground floor level to accommodate the shared social amenities. In total, 263 steel-framed modular units will be manufactured and craned into position, with the entire development expected to be completed by Spring 2026. The first students are set to move in for the start of the 2026 academic year. As part of its offsite construction innovation, Stelling will also install the building’s façade finishes at its factory, further reducing onsite work and demonstrating its commitment to cutting-edge, efficient construction methods. The exterior design of the scheme has been carefully considered to blend with the surrounding historic and listed buildings, featuring light stone-effect cladding and red brickwork to complement the area’s architectural heritage. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Planning permission has been granted for a new Sand Sports Centre at Hove Beach Park, following a decision by councillors at the Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday, 5 March. The proposal, submitted by Yellowave Brighton, includes the development of three sand courts for beach volleyball, beach tennis and footvolley, as well as a versatile multi-use area designed for 5-a-side beach soccer, life-saving training, and fitness activities. In addition to the courts and multi-use space, the new centre will feature a sports reception area, a small café, an accessible toilet with baby-changing facilities, and a free kids’ sandpit. A Beach House room will also be available for hire, providing an indoor space for a variety of community activities such as school beach education days, yoga sessions, First Aid training, and parent and toddler groups. The planning application also includes the change of use of existing public toilets, the demolition of a detached accessible WC, and the construction of a single-storey detached community facility with associated perimeter fencing and a newly landscaped surface around the water fountain. New public toilets will be opened nearby as part of the Hove Beach Park development at the new Outdoor Sports Hub. Councillor Julie Cattell, the lead member for major projects, spoke at the Planning Committee, highlighting the significance of the project. “This proposal is the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle that will complete Hove Beach Park – the first new park in the city for more than 100 years,” she said. The committee considered feedback from 91 objectors and 111 supporters. Councillor Cattell noted that many comments highlighted the public health benefits of the proposed sporting facilities. Katie Mintram, director of Yellowave, expressed her excitement about the project, saying: “We are thrilled to be able to bring beach sports to Hove. We will be working with a whole host of local sports clubs, schools, and colleges to offer more beach volleyball, beach tennis, and beach soccer in the city, to complement the sports on offer at our Madeira Drive site.” The new Sand Sports Centre is expected to enhance Hove Beach Park and offer local residents and visitors a range of outdoor sports and community activities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Willmott Dixon is set to deliver a £23 million transformation of Dewsbury Bus Station, continuing its track record of improving urban connectivity across the UK. The project, which follows similar work in Stockport, North Shields, Halifax and Stevenage, is aimed at enhancing the convenience and appeal of public transport in West Yorkshire. The planned upgrades will include a major overhaul of the main waiting area, making it more comfortable and attractive to passengers. A ‘living roof’ covered with plants will be added to the station’s structure, along with new cycle parking facilities and solar panels. These changes align with West Yorkshire’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2038. When the project is completed in Summer 2027, Dewsbury Bus Station will feature real-time information displays, improved safety and security features, and accessible facilities, including a ‘Changing Places’ toilet. This facility will be equipped with specialised equipment such as a hoist and a height-adjustable changing bench, catering to people with multiple and severe disabilities. In addition, another accessible toilet for all people with disabilities will be available. Willmott Dixon is collaborating with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Kirklees Council on the project, which forms part of the Council’s broader Dewsbury Blueprint. This initiative aims to make the town centre more attractive and easier to navigate, ultimately boosting foot traffic and improving local infrastructure. The Dewsbury Bus Station project is one of several high-profile transport upgrades Willmott Dixon has delivered, including work in Halifax and the Stockport Interchange. The company has also helped to modernise transport interchanges in North Shields, Stevenage, and Lincoln. In addition to the infrastructure improvements, Willmott Dixon is investing in the local community by creating a ‘Building Lives Academy’ in partnership with Kirklees College. The academy will provide 12 Dewsbury residents with work experience and classroom learning, helping them develop skills for future employment. Cllr Moses Crook, Deputy Leader of Kirklees Council, expressed enthusiasm for the project, said: “I am really pleased to see this investment in Dewsbury and I’m excited to see the transformation of the bus station, which is a fundamental step towards providing more accessible and sustainable travel options for everyone. These new facilities will make travelling by public transport a more attractive option and they will create more exciting opportunities for work, education and training, as well as connecting communities, family and friends across West Yorkshire.” Chris Yates, Yorkshire Director at Willmott Dixon, emphasised the company’s commitment to local development: “Our transport and town centre regeneration experts are proud to be working in partnership with West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Kirklees Council to transform Dewsbury Bus Station into a modern and sustainable community transport hub. We share a passion for creating employment opportunities and building skills in this community. That’s why we are committed to investing more than £7 million with local businesses throughout the project, as well as creating over 125 weeks of apprenticeship training and engaging Dewsbury school and college students.” The project is being funded through the Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund programme, which is designed to make it easier for people to walk, cycle, and use public transport in West Yorkshire. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
