The Government Property Agency (GPA) has appointed Wates Smartspace to deliver the Category B (Cat B) fit-out of its flagship First Street Hub in Manchester city centre, marking a major step toward the completion of one of the UK’s most significant regional government office projects. The appointment follows a competitive
Kier has been appointed to redevelop the King’s Academy Bay House School in Gosport, providing students with a range of new facilities. The project is the latest Kier has won to support the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme, with others including Oak Academy and Northolt High School. The scheme
Network Rail has appointed Skanska to undertake the replacement of the Clifton Bridge near Penrith, Cumbria. The £43 million contract involves designing, constructing, and installing a new 130-metre single-span steel bridge to replace the existing structure that carries the West Coast Main Line over the M6 motorway. Skanska has been
Mace has been appointed by JP Morgan Asset Management to redevelop 65 Gresham Street, one of the largest office building reuse projects in the City of London. The project will transform the existing structure into over 36,800 square metres of Grade A office, retail and ancillary spaces. Emphasising a reuse-first
The Chesterton Partnership, a joint venture led by developer Brookgate, has announced that blocwork will deliver the residential phase of development at Cambridge North, bringing forward over 400 new homes as part of the wider regeneration scheme. Located around Cambridge North Station, the emerging district is set to become a
A major new multi-generational housing scheme is set to take shape in Congleton after the McGoff Group secured unanimous planning approval for its proposed development on Morley Drive, the former site of John Morley Limited. Approved at a recent planning committee meeting, the joint application from the McGoff Group and
Construction has officially begun on a landmark maritime training hub in Whitby that aims to position the town as a key player in the UK’s offshore renewable energy and maritime industries. Willmott Dixon has been appointed to deliver the £9.6 million Whitby Maritime Training Hub, a cutting-edge development at Endeavour
Kirklees Council is set to complete its ambitious redevelopment of New Street by unveiling a special literary tribute to the town. The final touch to the major improvement project will be a poem by National Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, a Marsden native, celebrating Huddersfield, its people, and its traditions. The
Pexhurst has wrapped up a strong first quarter of 2025, completing several refurbishment projects across multiple sectors with a combined value of nearly £15 million. The projects supported clients in Pexhurst’s key sectors, industrial and logistics, as well as office refurbishments, across the South East and Midlands. Leading the portfolio
The regeneration of Nottingham city centre has taken a significant step forward following an agreement for Homes England to acquire the Broad Marsh site from Nottingham City Council. As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, Homes England will take ownership of the former shopping centre, land west of the Green
The Government Property Agency (GPA) has appointed Wates Smartspace to deliver the Category B (Cat B) fit-out of its flagship First Street Hub in Manchester city centre, marking a major step toward the completion of one of the UK’s most significant regional government office projects. The appointment follows a competitive tender process and will see Wates Smartspace take on responsibility for the full internal fit-out of the nine-storey building, transforming it into a fully functional office space for around 2,600 civil servants. The new hub is part of the GPA’s wider Government Hubs Programme and will house teams from several key departments, including the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted), and the Department for Education (DfE). Completion of the project is expected in Autumn 2026. With the recent completion of the Category A (Cat A) fit-out and lease commencement, the Cat B contract marks the final major hurdle ahead of the building’s full operational readiness. Once complete, the First Street Hub will be one of the largest cross-departmental government facilities outside London and is set to become a key anchor for civil service operations in the North. In addition to its scale, the hub is notable for its strong focus on sustainability, targeting an impressive NABERS 5.5* rating. “We are proud of the progress we continue to make as we work to provide high-quality and sustainable workplaces for civil servants across the UK,” said Georgina Dunn, Interim Director of Capital Projects at the GPA. The £105 million development has been forward-funded by the Pension Insurance Corporation (PIC), and supports the Government Hubs Programme’s mission to rationalise the public estate, promote flexible working, and drive economic growth across the UK’s towns and cities. Photo credit: Jon Matthews Architects Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kier has been appointed to redevelop the King’s Academy Bay House School in Gosport, providing students with a range of new facilities. The project is the latest Kier has won to support the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme, with others including Oak Academy and Northolt High School. The scheme will see 6862m2 of new teaching blocks installed and over 4000m2 of existing teaching space refurbished. The new build elements of the project will provide a wide variety of learning spaces to equip teachers and students with high quality new facilities, including science laboratories, art studios and music rooms. Designed to be net carbon zero in operation, the school will benefit from a range of sustainable features such as air source heat pumps, solar panels and passive ventilation; a design feature which helps keep the building at an optimum temperature without using energy. Living roofs, atriums full of natural light and the addition of a central courtyard and entrance plaza will give the whole school community a modern and inspirational learning space to call home. New electric vehicle charging points will be installed as well as additional cycle storage. A modern building with a mix of brick and blue accents, surrounded by greenery and featuring people in the foreground. The current school building features the famous Grade II listed Bay House, with its accompanying gate house and front wall, originally built in 1838. The gothic style building will be retained and incorporated into the school’s new pedestrian entrance. Through extensive repairs to the roof, windows, doors, fascia and stonework by Kier specialist supply chain, the heritage of the site in Gosport will be maintained for generations to come. The project was procured through the Department for Education’s High Value Band Framework. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Network Rail has appointed Skanska to undertake the replacement of the Clifton Bridge near Penrith, Cumbria. The £43 million contract involves designing, constructing, and installing a new 130-metre single-span steel bridge to replace the existing structure that carries the West Coast Main Line over the M6 motorway. Skanska has been appointed to remove the existing structure and replace it with a new 130 metre single span steel bridge. The new Clifton bridge will be built in a location close to the existing structure. At the end of this year, the current bridge will be removed and the new one moved into position and commissioned during a 15-day blockade on the West Coast Main Line, starting 31 December. The scheme is the first that Skanska has been awarded under Network Rail’s five-year North West and Central Framework (April 2024-March 2029). “Over recent months, we have worked closely with Network Rail to simplify and refine the design and construction methodology, ensuring that it meets budget and programme targets,” said James Corker, Operations Director (Rail). “This is a complex project that will be delivered to tight timescales, and we are delighted to have been appointed. It draws on our expertise delivering similar schemes, with close support from our supply chain team. “We have found ways to reduce cost, time and carbon, including through value engineering to minimise works required in reusing existing bridge support structures, such as abutments and piers. It’s been a really collaborative process and we are now very much looking forward to beginning main construction.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Mace has been appointed by JP Morgan Asset Management to redevelop 65 Gresham Street, one of the largest office building reuse projects in the City of London. The project will transform the existing structure into over 36,800 square metres of Grade A office, retail and ancillary spaces. Emphasising a reuse-first approach, the redevelopment aims to retain more than 70% of the building’s existing structure. Additionally, 95% of materials will be recycled or reused on-site, targeting a 66% reduction in whole-life carbon emissions. The building will operate fossil fuel-free during both construction and operation, incorporating air source heat pumps for heating, cooling, and hot water generation. The plans include adding four new lightweight floors to the existing eight-storey structure. External terraces and inset balconies will provide outdoor spaces on every floor, while expanded entrances and relocated retail spaces aim to activate the streetscape. Extensive greening initiatives are also planned to enhance biodiversity, aiming for a net gain of over 100%. Ged Simmonds, Managing Director of Private Sector at Mace Construct London, commented: “This ambitious retrofit project exemplifies Mace’s commitment to sustainable construction, showcasing innovative solutions that reduce environmental impact and set the standard for the next generation of sustainable offices. In the past five years, we’ve seen a growing trend in the City of London for sustainability-driven, reuse-focused office developments.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Chesterton Partnership, a joint venture led by developer Brookgate, has announced that blocwork will deliver the residential phase of development at Cambridge North, bringing forward over 400 new homes as part of the wider regeneration scheme. Located around Cambridge North Station, the emerging district is set to become a vibrant gateway to the North East Cambridge Area, blending residential, commercial, and green space in a highly connected location. The appointment of blocwork, a joint venture between Network Rail Property and developer bloc, marks a significant step forward for the scheme. It follows news that Cambridge North will be one of the first projects led by Network Rail’s soon-to-launch property company, which aims to deliver more than 40,000 new homes across the UK over the next decade. The regeneration of the former freight sidings is already underway, with the successful delivery of a Novotel Hotel and the One Cambridge Square office building, which is now over 75% let. Last year, the site secured masterplan consent, including outline planning permission for 425 residential units and 53,700 sqm of commercial space. The residential quarter at Cambridge North is designed to promote ultra-low car use, with excellent public transport and cycling links just two and a half miles from Cambridge city centre. The plans also include upgraded cycleways to enhance sustainable connectivity for residents and visitors alike. A key feature of the development will be a new green space for the local community and a ‘wild park’—a biodiverse area designed to provide a natural retreat within the urban environment. Sven Topel, CEO at Brookgate, said: “The residential quarter is a vital part of the vision for creating an open and accessible mixed-use neighbourhood at Cambridge North. Alongside our partners, we look forward to working with Network Rail Property and bloc as they partner to deliver high-quality homes in a sustainable location that supports the continued growth of Cambridge. The vision for the new live / work community at Cambridge North will provide an attractive and vibrant gateway from the station to surrounding areas.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major new multi-generational housing scheme is set to take shape in Congleton after the McGoff Group secured unanimous planning approval for its proposed development on Morley Drive, the former site of John Morley Limited. Approved at a recent planning committee meeting, the joint application from the McGoff Group and McCarthy & Stone will see the four-acre brownfield site transformed into a mixed-use community. The scheme includes a 70-bed care home, 53 retirement apartments, and 14 three-bedroom townhouses. “We are thrilled this scheme was passed unanimously earlier this week,” said Chris McGoff, Director at the McGoff Group. “We have worked closely with the Council, Canals & Rivers Trust and Network Rail to ensure the proposed plans perfectly suit the site, which is close to both the railway line and Macclesfield Canal. “More importantly, we will deliver much needed care beds and a retirement setting, with a shortfall of both recently identified in Congleton, as well as high quality, new build homes. Jobs in the locality will also be created, with the care home alone providing circa 100 jobs.” The development, designed by C-Squared Architects, will feature mill-inspired architecture in keeping with the local conservation area. Sustainability is central to the plans, with green roofs, solar PV panels, and a sustainable drainage system integrated into the design. The scheme also includes the creation of a tree-lined pedestrian and cycle route along the canal, linking the new development to Congleton train station. This addition aims to enhance local connectivity and promote active travel within the community. Construction is expected to begin later this year, with McGoff Construction Services—part of the McGoff Group—set to lead the build. The care home will be operated by the Group’s luxury care brand, Dunham Care, marking its third facility in development, with eight more in the pipeline. Meanwhile, McCarthy & Stone will be responsible for delivering the retirement complex, which will comprise 31 one-bedroom and 22 two-bedroom apartments, catering to the growing demand for high-quality retirement living in the area. Work is expected to start by late summer. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction has officially begun on a landmark maritime training hub in Whitby that aims to position the town as a key player in the UK’s offshore renewable energy and maritime industries. Willmott Dixon has been appointed to deliver the £9.6 million Whitby Maritime Training Hub, a cutting-edge development at Endeavour Wharf that will provide essential skills training, business accommodation, and engineering facilities for the next generation of maritime professionals. The project is being delivered in partnership with North Yorkshire Council and Enjoy Architects, and is expected to be completed by spring 2026. Procured via the SCAPE Construction Framework, the facility will include training and certification for the maritime, marine, and offshore renewable sectors, as well as office space for marine start-ups, engineering workshops, and space for service providers. Cllr Mark Crane, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for open to business, said: “This is a significant moment for this project. We believe the hub can open the door to new economic growth in coastal areas and be a landmark development for Whitby, placing the town at the forefront of the growing renewable energy sector. “It is imperative that there is a sustainable and diverse range of job opportunities for our communities, and the building of a world-class training facility can only help inspire the next generation of apprentices and professionals in the maritime sector.” The training hub is designed to complement the town’s historic maritime views and heritage, building on Whitby’s long-standing connections to fishing and sailing. Initially, North Yorkshire Council will manage the facility, with plans to potentially transfer operations to a community interest company in the future. The goal is to attract local, regional, and national businesses to use the space, supporting year-round employment and reducing Whitby’s dependence on seasonal industries like tourism. The hub aims to create long-term commercial opportunities that will fuel the coastal economy and support skilled job creation. Barry Harland, Chair of the Whitby Town Board, said: “Presenting new opportunities for people in and around Whitby is the main reason for the hub being built. I hope the excitement will build even further as the opportunities that these facilities will offer for local families become clearer over the next year, and more people and organisations engage with the project as it moves towards completion.” Funding for the project is part of the Government’s Town Deals programme, which awarded £37.3 million to Whitby and Scarborough in 2021 to drive local regeneration and economic development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kirklees Council is set to complete its ambitious redevelopment of New Street by unveiling a special literary tribute to the town. The final touch to the major improvement project will be a poem by National Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, a Marsden native, celebrating Huddersfield, its people, and its traditions. The poem, written specifically for the New Street regeneration, has been part of the vision from the outset, and its installation marks the poetic conclusion of the street’s transformation. While the full text remains under wraps for now, the council has confirmed it will be revealed once it takes its place on New Street, allowing residents, businesses, and visitors the first opportunity to experience it in its intended setting. This artistic addition is one of many initiatives reflecting Huddersfield’s growing cultural landscape. The town is on the brink of a major regeneration through the ‘Our Cultural Heart’ project, one of the largest town centre redevelopments in northern England. Located just around the corner from New Street, the project will bring new opportunities in art, music, history, and culture while boosting footfall in the town centre. The first phase of this landmark transformation, which includes a new library hub, food hall, and public square, is scheduled to open in spring next year. Additionally, planning permission has recently been granted for the second phase, which will see the introduction of a new museum and gallery. Across Huddersfield, these regeneration efforts are placing a strong emphasis on celebrating local creativity and heritage. To minimise disruption to local businesses, the council has ensured that the installation of the poetic paving stones will be carefully managed. The work will begin on 22 April and take place over 16 weeks, with only small sections of the street cordoned off at a time. Business entrances will remain accessible, and the enhancements are expected to be completed in time for the bustling summer months, when many cafés and restaurants extend their seating onto the street. Furthermore, the installation will not compromise accessibility. The poetic paving stones have been designed to integrate seamlessly with the tactile paving introduced in earlier improvements, ensuring that visually impaired individuals can navigate the street safely and comfortably. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pexhurst has wrapped up a strong first quarter of 2025, completing several refurbishment projects across multiple sectors with a combined value of nearly £15 million. The projects supported clients in Pexhurst’s key sectors, industrial and logistics, as well as office refurbishments, across the South East and Midlands. Leading the portfolio for size and value was a 300,000 sq ft project at Logicor’s Paddock Wood Distribution Centre in Tonbridge. This marks over £6 million worth of work completed by Pexhurst at the site since 2020. The latest phase overcame the complexities of working on live sites, allowing tenants to continue operations without disruption. Another notable industrial and logistics project was a 157,000 sq ft refurbishment for Prologis in Daventry. The scheme played a crucial role in Pexhurst’s continued expansion into the Midlands market. Martin Vella, Managing Director at Pexhurst, said: “After receiving several instructions in the late stages of 2024, we knew it was set to be a busy and exciting start to the year here at Pexhurst. Our team has kicked off 2025 with impressive results, completing several projects that have satisfied our clients and exhibited our many strengths. “We started this year with a clear list of aims and priorities, including continued growth in the Midlands and home counties, and increasing our foothold in the industrial and logistics sector. It’s very pleasing to see our early efforts this year contributing to our ever-growing portfolio of successfully completed projects. Not only are our clients seeing the benefit of our ever-growing sustainability expertise and dedication, the same applies to ourselves as we make good strides forward towards our 2030 net zero target in scope 1 and 2 emissions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The regeneration of Nottingham city centre has taken a significant step forward following an agreement for Homes England to acquire the Broad Marsh site from Nottingham City Council. As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, Homes England will take ownership of the former shopping centre, land west of the Green Heart, a multi-storey car park, Severns House, and a former college site. The next stage of development will focus on preparing the site for private sector investment, including demolition and enabling works to attract developers with the expertise to deliver a landmark city centre regeneration project. Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive of Homes England, said: “The acquisition of Broad Marsh is a major milestone in the city council’s vision of regeneration for this area of Nottingham. “We have worked closely with the council since 2022 to provide professional advice and support. Now that we have acquired the site, our teams will be working with partners to attract the right developer to deliver the new homes, employment spaces, and leisure facilities necessary to create a vibrant city centre neighbourhood that the people of Nottingham can be proud of.” Broad Marsh has been Nottingham’s top priority regeneration project, with major progress already made by Nottingham City Council (NCC). Recent achievements include: The project will also benefit from investment by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), reinforcing Broad Marsh’s strategic significance and showcasing the collaboration between local and national organisations to drive complex regeneration projects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
